House of Assembly
November 18, 2013

The following is being distributed at the request of the Government House Leader:

Upcoming Legislation Will Enhance the Safety and Security of Families and Communities

Provincial Government to Focus on Safety and Protection in House of Assembly

The Government of Newfoundland Labrador is committed to the protection and safety of all residents. As one of government’s main priorities, enhancing safety and security throughout Newfoundland and Labrador will be discussed at length in the House of Assembly this week.

“This government is acting upon its commitment to ensuring Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feel safe and secure in their communities. There are a number of pieces of important legislation being introduced and amended this week in order to further protect the well-being of children, families and seniors throughout our province.”
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and Government House Leader

The upcoming legislation will include amendments to the Highway Traffic Act which will improve the safety of roadways in the province. There will also be various amendments introduced to justice legislation that will strengthen the Acts and enhance protection of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians under the law. Included is a significant amendment to the Human Rights Act, 2010 which will see “gender identity” and “gender expression” added as prohibited grounds of discrimination. Further, the new Food Premises Act, which replaces the Food and Drug Act, will help ensure food safety for residents by providing the legislative authority for the continued safe manufacturing, processing and sale of food.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• This week, the Government of Newfoundland Labrador will focus on safety and protection in the House of Assembly.
• Legislation includes:
• Highway Traffic Act (Pull Over Amendments and Road Safety Amendments)
• Human Rights Act, 2010
• Food Premises Act (replacing the Food and Drug Act)
• Attorney General Statues Amendment Act
• Judicature Act (Amendments)
• Commissioners for Oaths Act (Amendments)
• Provincial Court Act (Amendments)

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Media contact:
Tess Burke
Communications Manager
Government Members Office
709-729-3551
tessburke@gov.nl.ca

2013 11 18                                        12:00 p.m.