Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly, Thursday 4 May 2023
Question Period focused heavily on the ongoing crab fishery standoff between the FFAW and ASP, with the Opposition pressing the Premier to intervene directly while the Minister of Fisheries defended his efforts and criticized the union leadership. Additional topics included the Churchill family apology, a new mid-size theatre announcement versus renovating the Reid Theatre, police misconduct complaints and civilian oversight, Crown lands reform, debt collection, school bus safety inspections, the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program coordinator vacancy, and accessibility issues in schools. The House of Assembly reviewed Estimates for the Legislature and Executive Council, including Government House, the Premier's Office, Executive Support, ATIPP, Communications, Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, and Women and Gender Equality. Members questioned ministers on staffing, expenditures, and policy initiatives including residential school apologies, pay equity consultations, and violence prevention funding. The Estimates for the Legislature and Executive Council were carried without amendment.
Members' Statements
Recognition of Leo Papail's marathon achievements
P. Pike
P. Pike recognized Leo Papail from Lord's Cove for completing the six main world marathons (Boston, New York, Chicago, London, Tokyo, Berlin) all in under three hours, earning the World Marathon Majors medal.
Recognition of Comrade Carl Turner's Legion service
L. Parrott
L. Parrott congratulated Comrade Carl Turner on receiving the Royal Canadian Legion Life Membership Award for 35 years of dedicated service to Branch 41 in Eastport, including multiple executive roles and community service as mayor and Canadian Ranger.
Recognition of Goulds Lions Club 47th charter night
L. O'Driscoll
L. O'Driscoll recognized the Goulds Lions Club on their 47th annual charter night, highlighting their contributions including acquiring the first fire truck for the Goulds Volunteer Fire Department and supporting various community initiatives.
Recognition of RISE Award recipients
B. Petten
B. Petten recognized Corey Matthews and Melissa Smith from Queen Elizabeth Regional High School in Conception Bay South for being selected to attend the Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program at the University of Toronto through the RISE Awards.
Recognition of town council and LSD volunteers
J. Dwyer
J. Dwyer thanked volunteers serving on town councils and Local Service Districts throughout Placentia West-Bellevue and the province, recognizing their essential role in community development and maintenance.
Routine Proceedings
Ministerial statement on National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
P. Parsons
P. Parsons recognized May 5 as Red Dress Day, announcing government's commitment to establish a Provincial Indigenous Women's Reconciliation Council and continued funding of nearly $400,000 for Indigenous-led violence prevention initiatives. Opposition members H. Conway Ottenheimer and L. Evans responded, calling for action on outstanding Calls to Action and addressing social and economic marginalization.
Report of Social Services Committee on Estimates
S. Gambin-Walsh
S. Gambin-Walsh reported that the Social Services Committee passed without amendment the Estimates of six departments: Children, Seniors and Social Development; Education; Health and Community Services; Justice and Public Safety; Municipal and Provincial Affairs; and Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation.
Petition on Witless Bay Line road conditions
L. O'Driscoll
L. O'Driscoll petitioned for upgrades to the Witless Bay Line, describing deplorable road conditions with potholes that force drivers to zigzag and pose safety hazards, particularly at night and in fog.
Petition to cancel sugar-sweetened beverage tax
T. Wakeham
T. Wakeham petitioned to cancel the 20-cent per litre sugar tax, arguing it takes money from people who can least afford it rather than modifying behaviour. Minister S. Coady responded citing health evidence linking sugar consumption to chronic disease and noting the tax generated $12 million this year.
Petition on accessible child care
H. Conway Ottenheimer
H. Conway Ottenheimer petitioned for accessible child care, sharing an email from a registered nurse who had to drop her permanent ER position due to inability to find regulated child care, highlighting the crisis affecting both families and the health care system.
Petition on reforming justice system for sexual assault survivors
J. Dinn
J. Dinn presented a petition calling for justice system reforms including curriculum review on consent, alternative justice options, practice directives prohibiting counsel from approaching or yelling at witnesses, and mandatory trauma training for provincial judges.
Petition on removal of abandoned buildings
C. Pardy
C. Pardy petitioned for legislation to remove collapsed or dilapidated structures in unincorporated areas and LSDs, noting they pose health and safety hazards and undermine tourism potential in communities like Bonavista.
Question Period
Premier's refusal to intervene in crab fishery standoff
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister stated he has been involved from day one, wrote to the FFAW requesting a secret ballot of harvesters on the $2.20/pound price, and was accused of meddling. He noted a deal was nearly reached at $2.20 but the FFAW president could not finalize it with his membership.
Why the Premier won't call both parties to a face-to-face meeting
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister recounted that the FFAW president had agreed to a deal at $2.20/pound but failed to secure membership approval, questioning where the president's interest lies.
Government's secret ballot request undermining FFAW leadership
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister justified the secret ballot request by citing threats on social media—people fear their enterprises or families will be harmed—and urged the FFAW and ASP to return to talks before it's too late.
Whether secret ballot contradicts collective bargaining law and invites litigation
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister reiterated that $2.20 is the negotiated price, fishing is underway in the Gulf at that rate, and delay risks losing markets for multiple seasons. He made himself and the Labour Minister available 24-7.
Extension of EI benefits for affected crews and plant workers
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister said he supported the FFAW's letter requesting EI extensions, emphasized that workers want to be fishing, and warned this could be worse than any crop failure if the fishery doesn't open.
Whether the Premier has called the prime minister to extend EI benefits and allowing outside buyers
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister stated he has not seen a letter from the FFAW for the whole fishery but received one yesterday about outside buyers for lobster. Government is reviewing it and any outside buyer would be licensed and pay the negotiated price.
When the Premier was informed Grieg reneged on local processing deal for St. Lawrence
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister said government was not party to any company-to-company agreements and any breach would follow a legal process. He praised Grieg's success and noted processing will occur in the province, creating jobs.
Who is standing up for the people of St. Lawrence after Grieg received $30 million
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister defended the investment, stating Grieg's fish will be processed in the province, employing people here, and highlighted aquaculture as a success story despite the disappointment for St. Lawrence.
Apology to the Churchill family, compensation for legal costs, and appointment to steering committee
Asked by D. Brazil · Answered by A. Furey
The Premier acknowledged the unfortunate situation, noted the school district apologized, and stated he personally apologizes if it provides the family peace of mind. No commitment was made on compensation or committee appointment.
Why build a new mid-size theatre when the Reid Theatre has sat vacant for over a decade
Asked by B. Petten · Answered by S. Crocker
The minister emphasized the arts contribute $450 million annually and 5,000 jobs, and clarified the Premier announced exploring options to establish, build, or renovate a mid-size theatre, with feasibility to be determined.
Why not renovate the Reid Theatre instead of spending on a brand new space
Asked by B. Petten · Answered by S. Crocker
The minister reiterated support for the arts economy and stated government will continue investing in the sector, which is a key factor for tourism.
Did the Premier listen to what artists wanted or just want a photo op
Asked by B. Petten · Answered by S. Crocker
The minister highlighted the Come From Away production in Gander, which has sold 14,000 tickets and will bring millions in GDP, as evidence of government's commitment to investing in the arts.
Why is the process to adjudicate police misconduct complaints hidden behind closed doors
Asked by H. Conway Ottenheimer · Answered by J. Hogan
The minister cited the RNC Act, which mandates public hearings for adjudication, but allows complainants—especially victims—to opt for private resolution if they do not wish to discuss traumatic issues publicly.
Will the minister establish a civilian police oversight board as recommended by First Voice
Asked by H. Conway Ottenheimer · Answered by J. Hogan
The minister said government is ahead of the game, established a working group in September 2022, and the budget includes a 10-person unit to address policing policy. He emphasized consulting multiple groups, including Indigenous and women's organizations, to get it right.
Why is the minister not acting to restore public confidence in policing
Asked by H. Conway Ottenheimer · Answered by J. Hogan
The minister stated he has met with First Voice multiple times, is consulting other groups including women's and racialized communities, and prefers to take time to get it right rather than rush.
Will the Liberals bring in legislation to fix Crown lands issues this sitting
Asked by P. Forsey · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister said government issued a 'What We Heard' document on Crown lands and section 36 (squatter's rights) and invited the Member to read it and discuss.
Why does government undermine people seeking fair and timely Crown lands services; will minister introduce legislation this sitting
Asked by P. Forsey · Answered by D. Bragg
The minister criticized the Opposition motion as ambiguous and fictional, offered to table the 'What We Heard' document, but made no commitment to legislation.
Has vacancy in Collection Services impacted collection of debt owed to government
Asked by C. Tibbs · Answered by S. Stoodley
The minister explained that collections were consolidated under her department for efficiency, the team works with people in difficult situations, and during COVID the focus shifted to COVID-related activities. She encouraged applications for vacancies.
Is the minister concerned that a 20% budget decrease will cause problems collecting debt
Asked by C. Tibbs · Answered by S. Stoodley
The minister thanked the collections team and offered to send the Member a job application, but did not address the budget concern directly.
Is the amount of money owed to government increasing or decreasing (over $300 million)
Asked by C. Tibbs · Answered by S. Stoodley
The minister stated that collections from across government have been consolidated, the team prioritizes the Crown's interest, and works with Justice and departments to manage debt from companies and individuals, including student loans.
When will school bus inspection reports be available online after Mount Pearl mechanical failure
Asked by C. Tibbs · Answered by S. Stoodley
The minister said 100% of the school bus fleet is inspected at the start of the year with additional inspections throughout. The bus in question passed inspection in January; an RNC investigation is ongoing and the department is awaiting its outcome.
Why hasn't the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program provincial coordinator been filled since 2021
Asked by L. Evans · Answered by T. Osborne
The minister acknowledged the issue is important and stated the department and Health Authority are working on training nurses throughout the province to provide this service.
How high is the priority for victims of sexual assault given the unfilled coordinator position
Asked by L. Evans · Answered by T. Osborne
The minister said the issue is a high priority, he has met with officials, and the Health Authority is undertaking training for nurses in areas throughout the province.
Will teachers, support staff, and union reps in Labrador West meet directly with the deputy minister next week
Asked by J. Brown · Answered by J. Haggie
The minister emphasized the role of the NLTA as the union and stated he would discuss this with the NLTA president in an upcoming meeting. He is interested in hearing views but does not want to bypass the union.
Will government hire deaf and hard of hearing specialists for preschool children
Asked by J. Dinn · Answered by J. Haggie
The minister noted he has a meeting with the NL Association for the Deaf next week, acknowledged that deaf and hard of hearing teachers are difficult to recruit and retain, and stated he will discuss recruitment and retention strategies with the NLTA.
When will the chairlift at A. P. Low Primary be repaired or replaced
Asked by J. Dinn · Answered by J. Haggie
The minister acknowledged maintenance challenges in older schools, cited supply chain issues for lift technology, limited personnel, and recruitment competition from IOC in Labrador West. He stated the department is working with the school district to address the issue.
Orders of the Day
Committee of Supply - Estimates of Legislature
Multiple
The House resolved into Committee of the Whole to review Estimates. The Legislature Estimates (subheads 1.1.01 through 8.1.01) were carried without amendment.
Committee of Supply - Government House (1.1.01)
D. Brazil and S. Coady
D. Brazil questioned increases in Salaries ($56,000) and Purchased Services ($25,500). S. Coady explained overruns were due to hosting the viceregal conference with Lieutenant-Governors from across Canada, with federal revenue of $20,000 received. The budget has been rightsized for the current year.
Committee of Supply - Premier's Office and Executive Support (2.1.01-2.2.01)
D. Brazil and S. Coady
D. Brazil questioned Transportation and Communications increases ($279,000 budgeted) and Executive Support Salaries overrun ($725,000). S. Coady explained higher travel requirements for Premier's representation and that overruns were due to Health Transformation team and Change Desk (three positions). The Premier's Office has 18 funded positions including offices in Central Newfoundland and Labrador.
Committee of Supply - ATIPP (2.3.01)
C. Tibbs and J. Hogan
C. Tibbs questioned the $2 million increase for ATIPP. J. Hogan explained the plan to centralize ATIPP with dedicated coordinators embedded throughout departments but centrally accountable, allowing better tracking of metrics and training for municipalities. Over 40 employees currently have ATIPP-related duties.
Committee of Supply - Communications and Public Engagement (2.4.01-2.6.01)
D. Brazil and S. Coady
D. Brazil questioned Professional Services ($288,000 budgeted but only $24,000 spent) and Purchased Services ($226,000 budgeted, $43,000 spent). S. Coady explained these are normalized budgets for government-wide marketing campaigns used only as needed. Public Engagement held 67 sessions with 6,500 participants on topics including Budget 2023, minimum wage review, and various legislation reviews.
Committee of Supply - Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation (2.7.01-2.7.02)
H. Conway Ottenheimer, L. Evans, and L. Dempster
Members questioned progress on residential school apologies, Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, the Beothuk statue (now being cast at foundry), and housing conditions in Indigenous communities. L. Dempster reported the Beothuk statue should be completed in coming months, co-development of public service training on Indigenous issues is underway, and Budget 2023 allocated $10.8 million for the Innu child protection inquiry. L. Evans raised concerns about social and economic marginalization, suicide prevention, and high incarceration rates.
Committee of Supply - Women and Gender Equality (2.8.01-2.8.03)
H. Conway Ottenheimer and P. Parsons
H. Conway Ottenheimer requested gender-based analysis of the budget, domestic violence statistics, and information on pay equity consultations and violence prevention funding. P. Parsons reported 625 individuals trained in GBA+, 399 Cabinet papers reviewed in 2022-23, pay equity implemented in public sector as of April 1 with consultations underway for private sector, and the annual Provincial Indigenous Women's Gathering held in North West River in November.
Other business
Withdrawal of remarks and introduction of new Page
J. Haggie and The Speaker
J. Haggie withdrew remarks made regarding a matter of privilege raised by the Member for Labrador West. The Speaker welcomed new Page Blessing Opoku from Ghana, who is completing a master's degree in political science at Memorial University.
This is Tabled's summary of the sitting, written from the official record; Hansard is only ever quoted at the link above. Search Newfoundland and Labrador Hansard for the words themselves, or read this sitting in the archive.