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 conducting in-person sessions and an online questionnaire regarding both the Ripple Pond and Halls Gullies Proposed Protected Areas.

Closing Date: December 20, 2024

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: 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.

Closed: November 19, 2024

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