Welcome to engageNL

This online public engagement space allows you to contribute your ideas and feedback on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s public consultations. You can see a list of all current engagement opportunities, provide input, and see updates on previous engagement activities.

engageNL is a web-based tool designed to make it easier for you to provide input on government programs and policies. This online tool is used to host information, feedback and discussions regarding initiatives that have a public engagement component.

We look forward to your participation and input.

Recent & Active Engagements

The Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development (CSSD) and the Department of Justice and Public Safety (JPS) are engaging the public and key stakeholders to help inform the development of a Framework of Decision-Making so people are supported to make their own decisions.

Closing Date: Tuesday, November 26, 2024

The Provincial Government is considering legislation regarding digital technology and its use by government departments and government’s agencies, boards, and commissions. Digital technology includes online digital services, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Led by the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO), public consultations are required to help inform this decision.

The objective of this questionnaire is to consult with residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to obtain input in determining if the provincial government should make any amendments to existing legislation or introduce new legislation regarding governments usage of digital technology.

Closing Date: November 19, 2024

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has asked the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council to engage the public on ten new protected areas and make recommendations on whether to proceed with interim protections on the sites. WERAC has completed the in-person and online engagements regarding the protection of Indian Arm Brook. The council is now seeking input on the following proposed protected areas: Ripple Pond, Halls Gullies, Conne River North, and Facheaux Bay.

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The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture sought feedback on proposed amendments to enforcement-related provisions, fines and penalties in the Wild Life Act, Endangered Species Act and applicable regulations.

The amendments aim to modernize legislation, use clear language, and repeal legislation that is no longer required to ensure it is easier to interpret, enforce, follow, and respect. The proposed amendments strive to ensure enforcement officers are better equipped to protect Newfoundland and Labrador’s cherished wildlife resources.

Updated: What We Heard

On September 1, 2023, the Provincial Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced the creation of an All-Party Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Addictions in response to the continued need for prevention, early intervention, treatment, and support for people living with mental health, substance use and addictions issues, with an emphasis on youth and young adults.

The objectives of the engagement process included informing the public on mental health and addictions services currently available, gathering feedback on currently available programs or services, and seeking input from the public on potential gaps in mental health and addictions programs and services to inform recommendations of the All-Party Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Addictions.

Closed: September 30, 2024

The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation is currently undertaking the development of an Active Living Action Plan and has sought input from the general public, groups and organizations in the sport, physical activity, recreation and healthy living sectors, intergovernmental departments, and Indigenous Governments and Organizations.

The Active Living Action Plan will help guide and stimulate coordinated sport, physical activity and recreation policies, practices, programs and initiatives targeted at improving the overall health and well-being of residents in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Closed: July 12, 2024

The Department of Health and Community Services is inviting individuals and organizations to provide input on the development of potential amendments to provincial tobacco and vaping-related legislation. In particular, the Department is seeking your feedback on the following proposed amendments: prohibiting the sale of tobacco to persons born after a certain date; increasing the legal age to purchase tobacco products to 21; and prohibiting sales of tobacco through vending machines. There will also be an opportunity to provide feedback on vaping products.

Closed: July 8, 2024

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is building a new school in the Kenmount Terrace neighbourhood of St. John's to support the growing number of Kindergarten to Grade 12 students living in the area. While it is anticipated that the school will encompass primary and elementary grades, the Department of Education has gathered input on the grade configuration that will best meet the needs of the area. As well, the department sought input on the school system planning process for the entire Prince of Wales Collegiate School System to address the needs of the growing student population on the Northeast Avalon.

Updated: What We Heard

To help inform the 2025-2027 Corporate Plan, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is asking for feedback from the public. This questionnaire explores important topics like community trust and confidence, interactions with the police, and experiences with crime and victimization. Your comments will play a critical role in shaping the RNC’s strategic direction for the next three years.

Closed: June 28, 2024
The Mechanics’ Lien Act (the Act) came into effect on June 18, 1970. The Act allows for the registration of a claim for lien against real property for work done or to be done, or for materials placed or provided or to be placed or provided on a particular property.

The Act has not undergone significant amendments since it was originally enacted. As other provinces and territories have amended their respective legislation in recent years and as Newfoundland and Labrador regularly reviews its legislation to ensure that the best legislation is available for residents of the province, the department is undertaking a review of the Act.

Closed: June 7, 2024