PDF Version

May 19, 2022

HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PROCEEDINGS

Vol. L No. 57

The

House met at 1:30 p.m.

SPEAKER (Bennett):

Order, please!

Admit

strangers.

Before

we begin, I'd like to welcome in our public gallery, Mr. Chris Gardner and his

father, Ben. Chris is the subject of a Member's statement this afternoon.

Welcome.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

Also, I'd be remiss if I

didn't recognize a lady in my district that's celebrating her 105th birthday

today.

Ms.

Victoria Compton, who resides at the long-term care facility in Lewisporte.

Happy

birthday, Ms. Compton.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

Statements by

Members

SPEAKER:

Today we will hear statements

by the hon. Members for the Districts of Conception Bay South, Lake Melville,

Placentia West - Bellevue, Torngat Mountains and St. John's Centre.

The hon.

the Member for Lake Melville.

P. TRIMPER:

Thank you, Speaker.

Today I

want to congratulate the Goose-Happy Valley Kinettes Club that next week, on May

28, will celebrate 50 years of service to the community.

As part

of Kin Canada, which recently marked 100 years, the Kinettes are a non-profit

group that promotes community service, fellowship, positive values and national

pride. Memberships is open to all persons regardless of race, colour or creed.

The

local club has responded to a myriad of causes, both at the national level, such

as cystic fibrosis, through to numerous individual appeals for financial,

physical, and/or emotional support and assistance.

behalf of the 50th General Assembly, I extend heartfelt appreciation for a

half-century of amazing service. As a long-time resident of Happy Valley-Goose

Bay, I would also like to personally thank you for so much of what you do that

happens below the public radar. I have come to know your organization as a place

where things happen and as an important centre of service in our community.

Often

the situations are difficult, time and resources are limited; however, the

Kinettes step up constantly and dependably. I believe that your club is a

special leader in your district and in the country.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Conception Bay South.

B. PETTEN:

Thank you, Speaker.

I rise

today to acknowledge two Grade 12 students of Queen Elizabeth Regional High

School in Conception Bay South: Kaitlyn Grandy and Stephanie Evans.

In 2018,

as Grade 8 students at Frank Roberts Junior High, they were lead students of the

Raven KASTER mini-boat project sponsored by teachers Mr. Thomas Sheppard and Ms.

Shawna Walsh.

November 8, 2018, the Raven KASTER mini-boat was launched off the Grand Banks.

After 102 days in the North Atlantic Ocean, it landed in Achill Island, Western

Ireland on February 18, 2019.

These

two students have captured a global audience and the attention of His

Excellency, Ambassador of Ireland, Eamonn McKee, where he met with Kaitlyn and

Stephanie at a special luncheon in CBS on Tuesday, May 17, to hear their

inspiring story and to learn more about the mini-boat's future relaunch plans

set for 2023.

The

mini-boat project has inspired many young people to learn more about science and

technology, ocean currents, climate change and the ocean environment.

Conception Bay South is very proud of Kaitlyn and Stephanie and I wish them

great success in their 2023 journey to Ireland as they relaunch the Raven

KASTER. I look forward to following their adventure on educationpassages.org.

Thank

you very much, Mr. Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I rise in this hon. Chamber today to recognize two

youth delegates from the 50th session of the Newfoundland and Labrador Youth

Parliament, Mr. Jimmy Bonnell and Ms. Rachel Hawco, both from the beautiful

District of Placentia West - Bellevue. This was their first time attending this

conference and both Jimmy and Rachel had a very successful and enjoyable

experience.

Jimmy is a student at Memorial University and also our

constituency assistant for the District of Placentia West - Bellevue. Jimmy won

the Rookie of the Year at this year's conference.

Rachel is also student at Memorial University and has

been elected by the NL Youth Parliament delegates to serve as the leader of the

Official Opposition for the 51st session of the Newfoundland and Labrador Youth

Parliament.

It is great to see so many youth interested and

involved with politics in our beautiful province.

I ask all hon. Members to join myself and the entire

District of Placentia West - Bellevue in congratulating Jimmy and Rachel on a

successful Newfoundland and Labrador Youth Parliament and wishing them all the

best in their future endeavours.

Thank you Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for Torngat Mountains.

L. EVANS:

Thank you, Speaker.

Jim

Lyall was the first president of Nunatsiavut. He later served as Nain's ordinary

member in the Nunatsiavut Assembly until his death May 13, 2022.

Born in

Nutak, Labrador, Jim and his family were forced to relocate south to Nain in

1956 at the age of 11 years.

Jim

attended residential school and his early experience with forced resettlement

gave him the personal knowledge and perspective that helped him become a

tremendous advocate and leader for his people.

Jim's

early years were working with the provincial government stores, a prestigious

job reserved for outsiders and educated people.

In 1977,

Jim started down another path as the executive director of the Labrador Inuit

Association. Although he left in to 1981 to work with Canada Post, he remained a

tremendous advocate. He was a Justice of the Peace and a community leader. In

1998, he was appointed to the North Coast Transportation Committee.

In 2002,

he returned as executive director of the Labrador Inuit Association serving

until land claims were ratified in December 2005. Remaining with Nunatsiavut,

Jim worked as budget analyst. He also served on the Minister's Advisory

Committee on Labrador Transportation.

He has

left a national legacy of passionate leadership.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for St.

John's Centre.

J. DINN:

Thank you, Speaker.

Later this month, Chris Gardner will receive his

Bachelor of Arts in history and political science at Memorial University's

spring convocation – a dream he never believed was an option for him. He loved

academia but struggled academically and was years behind when he graduated high

school.

For 31½

years, Chris worked with Memorial's cleaning services. In 1991, personal events

inspired him to work up the courage to follow his dream. He availed of a program

offered by Memorial allowing employees to take one course per term as part of a

mandate to broaden a person's knowledge.

Chris

began with foundation courses and was diagnosed with a learning disability – a

revelation that hit home about what held him back. The diagnosis demonstrated

his limitations and strengths, making him a better student. Teachers saw his

potential and he took advantage of accommodations offered him.

Chris's

struggle with mental health forced him to skip several semesters. Still, he

persevered. When asked why, Chris said: “It was about personal fulfilment. A

person climbs a mountain because it's there.” Next on Chris's list: visiting

Bonn, Beethoven's birthplace.

Please

join me in congratulating Chris on his accomplishment and wishing him well in

his future endeavours.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

Statements by Ministers.

Statements by

Ministers

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister

Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, and Labrador Affairs.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you.

Speaker,

it is an honour for me today to recognize an educator, a historian and a friend.

Patricia

Way is a distinguished Labradorian. She has made it her life's work to help

people and communities learn and understand the branches that make up their

family tree. If you wanted to know about your family history, you went to Patty.

Patty

Way has spent literally thousands of hours pouring over historical records,

journals, reading church documents and talking to people about their family

connections.

It has

been through her abiding devotion that she has pieced together the roots that

run deep in Labrador and shared what she has learned through articles,

presentations and kitchen table chats.

recognition of her research in unravelling and honouring the stories of Labrador

and its people over the past 50 years, Memorial University conferred upon Patty

Way an honorary doctorate of laws during convocation ceremonies that took place

this morning in Corner Brook.

Today is

truly a special and proud moment for Patty and indeed for all of Labrador. I am

so filled with pride myself, Speaker, as I reflect upon my time sitting around

board tables with Patty as we discussed the great issues of the day. I thank

this tremendously proud Labradorian for the mentorship that she has provided to

me and many others.

I ask my

hon. colleagues to join me in extending congratulations to Dr. Patty Way. Enjoy,

my friend. This recognition is so well deserved.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Leader of the

Official Opposition.

D. BRAZIL:

Thank you, Speaker.

I thank

the minister for the advance copy of her statement.

Speaker,

I join with the minister in recognizing educator and historian Patty Way. She

was born in Labrador and has been a significant educator and historian for more

than 50 years, establishing the groundwork for comprehensive genealogies for

many in Southern, Central and Northern Labrador; her lifetime dedicated to

unravelling and honouring the stories of the Labrador people.

Patricia

– Patty – Way received the degree of doctor of laws from Memorial University

this morning. The Official Opposition wishes to congratulate Patty Way, now Dr.

Patty Way, on a lifetime of dedication to the people of Labrador.

Congratulations.

Thank

you, Mr. Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Torngat Mountains.

L. EVANS:

I thank the minister for the

advance copy of her statement.

Our

sincere congratulations and thanks to Dr. Patty Way for her contributions to our

Labrador regions over the last 50 years. I can tell you, your dedication as

educator and historian is admired throughout Labrador's vast regions. Your

honorary doctorate is truly deserved. Your kindness and generosity of your time

to collect family stories and history over such a vast period is something to be

respected and admired.

Thank

you very much.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

Are there any further

statements by ministers?

Oral

Questions.

Oral Questions

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Leader of the

Official Opposition.

D. BRAZIL:

Thank you, Speaker.

Speaker,

media has indicated that a report involving a statutory Officer of the House of

Assembly is out there.

Will the

Premier join our call for transparency on this report?

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

Again,

this question is out of line. It's not to fall within the competence of the

Executive Branch.

The

Leader of the Official Opposition.

D. BRAZIL:

One media outlet is reporting

the province is working on a way to avoid being penalized for reducing the gas

tax. For months, we, on this side of the House, have been calling on the

Liberals to do something about the rising cost of gasoline at $2.30 a litre.

People are suffering.

Is the

price of gasoline finally high enough for the Premier to take action?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Premier.

PREMIER A. FUREY:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As we've

said many times in this House, we are always looking at creative ways to help

address the cost of living, some of which were addressed in the $142 million

that was announced earlier this year, and we're always talking with our federal

partners about how to further advance other initiatives to look after

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, Mr. Speaker.

recognize the price of gas is high. We recognize the stress and strain that that

is playing on collectively everybody in this House and who we represent. We are

trying our best, within the fiscal envelope of this province and the fiscal

challenges that we face, to address them responsibly, Mr. Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Leader of the

Official Opposition.

D. BRAZIL:

Thank you, Speaker.

We all

realize that people do need some action immediately.

Premier,

a simple yes or no: Did the prime minister give the Premier permission to lower

the taxes on gasoline for the province?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Premier.

PREMIER A. FUREY:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As we

suggested yesterday, this is an active discussion with respect to the

flexibility and the gas tax. We continue to have discussions and I would argue,

Mr. Speaker, that discussions like this, with collaborations, have led to good

results for the people of the province in the past. I'm confident that they will

further lead to better results going forward.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Leader of the

Official Opposition.

D. BRAZIL:

Again, we'll reiterate:

Action is needed now, immediately.

Why is

it that the Premier found money for NASCAR to open a political office in Central

Newfoundland, to support a royal visit, yet he has not found money to lower fuel

prices for the people of this province?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Premier.

PREMIER A. FUREY:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As we've

already suggested, we're continuing to look at ways to be creative in helping us

address the cost of living. I would suggest that those are solid investments,

Mr. Speaker. NASCAR happens to be in the Member opposite's district; the office

in Grand Falls-Windsor happens to be in a different district. We recognize the

importance of those districts and the people in those districts, and we want to

support their voices moving forward, Mr. Speaker.

This is

not outside the realm of normal investments of any government, Mr. Speaker. What

the Minister of Finance has done in the past, being creative in looking at the

$142 million on top of the $500 million that we pay for rate mitigation, are yet

further examples of how we're moving forward with a creative plan. Once again,

we understand and appreciate the stress and strain on all families of the

province, and will continue to work on their behalf.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Leader of the

Official Opposition.

D. BRAZIL:

Thank you, Speaker.

If you

want to listen to the voices of the people, listen to their needs right now. Do

something that offsets the cost of living for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

D. BRAZIL:

Unlike the Liberals, we have

listened to the people. We have heard their stories, and we will continue to

bring attention to how the soaring price of food and fuel has impacted people's

ability to provide for their families. The Premier must take action in this

province to lower the cost of fuel.

Yes or

no, will the Premier finally bring an end to the soaring gasoline prices?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Premier.

PREMIER A. FUREY:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

As the

Member opposite knows, the price of fuel is not exclusively controlled by the

provincial government, Mr. Speaker. This is a problem being tackled by every

jurisdiction in the world, Mr. Speaker. The president of the United States is

struggling with levers to reduce the price of fuel. It's not unique to us; there

are externalities beyond our control.

We are

doing what we can, and we're continuing to look at levers that we can pull,

realizing that it won't fully address the price of fuel, Mr. Speaker. That is

largely controlled by externalities beyond our control, including,

unfortunately, a significant war in Europe right now. We can't control that, or

the supply chains associated with it, nor can we control the externalities of

the push and pull of inflation, Mr. Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Conception Bay South.

B. PETTEN:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Premier, you better soon pull a lever, because people

can't handle much more in this province.

Speaker, we finally saw the minister's long-awaited

roads plan on Monday, which continues the Liberal pork-barrelling of pavement.

If you exclude highway work and bridges, some 85 per cent of the minister's plan

will be in Liberal districts.

Speaker, when will this government truly take the

politics out of paving?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

LOVELESS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

An important question, but I'll say to the Member

across that in Liberal districts there are seniors and there are buses that

carry children. So I make no apologies for investments in what he perceives as

Liberal districts.

This year we did due diligence in terms of the roads

plan. We struck a balance, where there is a need for bridgework in this

province. We're doing it, through the advice of engineers that are in the

department. We're considering climate change, which is a very important aspect

of it as well.

So we feel that we struck a good balance, and I believe

it is a good balance.

Thank you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Conception Bay South.

B. PETTEN:

Thank you, Speaker.

I remind the minister Opposition districts have seniors

and children as well, so I guess they're not as important as them.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

PETTEN:

Fair point?

HON. MEMBER:

also have bridges.

PETTEN:

also have bridges, yeah, of course.

Speaker, I'll say no more.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Oh,

oh!

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

PETTEN:

Thank you.

The minister talks about not making apologies and

performing his due diligence.

But why is Terra Nova Road, the CAA Atlantic rated

worst road in Canada, omitted from this plan? I assume because it's represented

by a PC Member.

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

LOVELESS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I don't govern by CAA. If you want to talk about

politics I'll go back a few years. When you guys were in government leading into

2015, you spent $458,000 out in Fortune Bay - Cape La Hune. Going into the

election, you spent $5.8 million. You want to talk about politics, that's

politics right there.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Conception Bay South.

PETTEN:

Mr.

Speaker, I live in the present, not in the past. And I wasn't the minister in

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Oh,

oh!

PETTEN:

wasn't me, Mr. Speaker. I encourage government to get new material, because some

of their old material is getting old. Muskrat Falls and what we done. Get on

with (inaudible). It's 2022 and it's time to answer questions related to 2022.

Speaker, a senior in my district who is also a

four-time cancer survivor had recently discontinued therapy for a skin condition

because he couldn't afford it. The senior is on a fixed income and is struggling

with a high cost of living.

This gentleman said – and I quote – on behalf of all

seniors on fixed incomes and the unfortunate people who require ongoing medical

treatment, please do something about this.

I ask the minister: What will you do?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Health and Community Services.

HAGGIE:

Thank you very much, Speaker.

We certainly hear the same kind of calls in our

constituency offices as the Members opposite. There is a variety of assistance

plans through the NLPDP, one of which is the Assurance Plan, which is designed

to deal with expensive medications and is based on someone's income. It is

simply a matter of them making the appropriate application.

If the Member opposite has details, I would be happy to

look into it for him and steer them in the right direction.

Thank you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Stephenville - Port au Port.

WAKEHAM:

Speaker, I know of lots of people who have made those applications and have been

denied for different reasons. You really have to take a passionate look at some

of these individual situations, because not everybody fits in the same box.

Speaker, there was a senior recently reached out to me

and said: We soon cannot afford to drive to Corner Brook to see our

grandchildren. Gas taxes have to go.

I ask the minister: What do you say to that senior?

What help can you offer that senior so they will continue to be able to go see

their grandchildren and others who are struggling with the high cost of

gasoline?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board.

COADY:

Thank you, Speaker.

Indeed, we want their grandparents to see their

grandchildren. Of course, we do. We understand how difficult this situation is

about the global increases in the price of fuel.

I will say to the Member opposite, as I have said

before, that is why we, in the budget, did $142 million to put money back in the

people's pocket. We are continuing to look at what we are going to be able to do

as we move forward to relieve some of the pressures that people are feeling

because of the cost of living.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Stephenville - Port au Port.

WAKEHAM:

Speaker, our office received an email from an individual who stated: I cannot

afford to keep oil in the furnace anymore. I have already borrowed $500 from

friends to keep enough oil in my tank to try and stay warm. I am embarrassed to

ask them for more money and I do not qualify for any government programs.

I ask the minister the same question this person asked

us: Can you please do something to help?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board.

COADY:

Absolutely, Speaker, these are difficult times; we recognize that. That is why

we increased the Income Supplement. That is why we increased the Seniors'

Benefit, but I would suggest the Member opposite reach out to my colleague, the

Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development. It sounds like that family

needs help.

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Stephenville - Port au Port.

WAKEHAM:

Thank you, Speaker.

These people have been reaching out, but unfortunately

they haven't been heard.

Speaker, the minister has heard story after story from

this side, from the PC caucus over the last three weeks talking about people in

our districts who have been significantly impacted by the high cost of living.

I ask the minister: Can you give us an example of a

story from a constituent in your district about their difficulties with the cost

of living?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board.

COADY:

Thank you, Speaker.

These are indeed difficult times. We all recognize

that. I can tell you that colleagues across the country and various governments

across the country have tried to help their constituents as well. We have

provided $142 million in relief this spring. I can tell you that compares with,

in Nova Scotia, $13 million.

We have stepped forward, we have returned the entire

amount that we collect in provincial gas tax back to the people of the province

and I have said, and the Premier said repeatedly, we're going to try and do

more. We're very focused on trying to do more.

Thank you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Harbour Main.

CONWAY OTTENHEIMER:

Speaker, the people of the province desperately need

the governments help now. Please do something now.

Last week, Mr. Speaker, two forest fires in the

District of Harbour Main, one in Brigus and one in Harbour Main, had forest

fires in their district. I have spoken to fire chiefs and town officials from

the district. They are concerned that there were serious response time delays

from both forestry firefighters and from water bombers.

I ask the minister: Why did it take so long for

provincial firefighting support to arrive?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

BRAGG:

Thank you, Speaker.

I guess it is unfortunate that forest fire season came

earlier – it is getting earlier, it seems like, every year. I'm not aware of any

delay in the response time. I do know there were personnel on the ground, I do

know there was a water bomber dispatched to the area and I know it was

extinguished in a relatively quick time. It was two very close together. I think

one was in Harbour Main area and the other one was in Brigus area.

I like to thank the crews that came out, everyone came

home that went out for that response that day and I think that is very important

to remember, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Harbour Main.

CONWAY OTTENHEIMER:

Yes, the local fire departments were amazing with

respect to the work they did. But in Brigus, there response time for the water

bomber was approximately one hour and 20 minutes; in Harbour Main, one hour and

a half. So, Mr. Speaker, I have also been told by a local official that there

was a breakdown in communication. I was told that by the time the water bomber

showed up, the local area fire departments had the fire under control.

Can the minister please update the people: What is

being done to improve forest fire response times?

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

BRAGG:

Thank you very much, Speaker.

I think the times, if you look at where the water

bombers are located and the time response to get there and to get staff – I mean

everybody is waiting – 90 minutes is not unreasonable. It is great – I really

appreciate the help of the volunteer fire departments. They help so many times,

because most times these fires start with the careless use of a grass fire.

That's usually what starts most of our – and it is in a municipality, so the

first response would be the fire department and I can't thank these guys enough

for that.

Our

people come in. We have the resources. We have great staff throughout the

province. We probably have 30 or 40 different positions that we're in throughout

the province. We have a forest fire crew that's ready, trained and able to come.

We actually get responses to go outside the province so we have a great staff

for this.

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

The

minister's time has expired.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Harbour Main.

H. CONWAY OTTENHEIMER:

Mr. Speaker, I

respectfully disagree that those response times are adequate, especially when

they pose serious safety risks to the public. It is my understanding that there

is not a full complement of forestry firefighters on the Avalon.

Can the

minister responsible for Forestry outline how many firefighters are currently

not on the job?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

D. BRAGG:

Obviously, Speaker, I do not

have these numbers at my fingertips, but I do know that we are staffed up; we

are ready throughout this province. If there's anything, any shortage anywhere,

my staff would bring that to my attention.

actively recruit. We have an ongoing training program so that we meet and exceed

national standards for our firefighters. So I'm very proud of the team we have

out there committed to forest fires.

Again, I

thank the volunteer fire departments for their response because, of course, the

best response is having no response with no fire. But when there is, it's great

to know that the volunteer firefighters are there. They are actively on the

scene. Sometimes we're located an hour from the fire so it would take us at

least an hour to get there, Mr. Speaker.

Thank

you very much.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Bonavista.

C. PARDY:

Speaker, tomorrow marks the

first long weekend of the summer and the official kickoff to the camping season.

A quick check reveals availability in many provincial parks and Terra Nova

National Park is mostly empty.

Is the

minister cognizant that skyrocketing gas prices is the reason for this

situation?

SPEAKER:

The hon. Minister of Finance

and President of Treasury Board.

S. COADY:

Thank you.

I'm

pleased to inform the Member that I understand that renovations are under way in

Terra Nova National Park, and that they are actively trying to get a lot of

their lots open so that people can enjoy their summers. I understand in

provincial parks – I think they will really be well visited this summer.

I wish

everyone a happy and enjoyable first long weekend of summer. I know that we're

all excited about that.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Bonavista.

C. PARDY:

The bookings don't indicate

that it's going to be a good summer on the camping season.

Speaker,

one avid camper told me a return trip from St. John's to Terra Nova with his

trailer in tow would be over $300 just in gas.

While

the Premier had stated a little earlier to a question, the price of fuel is not

exclusively controlled by our government, this $300 cost, cost $83 in taxes. He

and a lot more, it seems, have decided to stay home – this camper.

Again, I

ask the minister: Will Come Home Year mean stay home year?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Industry, Energy and Technology.

A. PARSONS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Not

often do I get an opportunity to field a question on Come Home Year, but I

certainly would like to take advantage because, given where I live, it is the

gateway to Newfoundland with Marine Atlantic.

What I

can say to the Member is that we all feel these concerns, as it relates to gas

prices, but when it comes to bookings right now, I can tell you that Marine

Atlantic has surpassed the number of bookings that they had in 2019. That number

has gone up. That bodes well for this province, all these people coming in, in

their vehicles.

I can

also say that the numbers at Burgeo Sandbanks Provincial Park have also

surpassed the numbers from last summer. I would extend an invitation to all

Members of the House to come to Burgeo Sandbanks Park this summer.

Thank

you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Ferryland.

L. O'DRISCOLL:

Thank you, Speaker.

This

morning the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association spoke out about the high

cost of diesel and said that the costs will have to be pushed on the customers.

Why has

the minister responsible for customer protection ignored the people's concerns

about skyrocketing prices of food and other goods?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Digital Government and Service NL.

S. STOODLEY:

Thank you, Speaker.

certainly regulate the transportation industry and we recognize the concerns of

the trucking industry and the high price of gas. It's very unfortunate; it does

have a significant impact on the cost of goods. We know the price of gas is

extremely high.

I was

very pleased this past week, we had third reading of the

Petroleum Products Act , which increases transparency of the Public

Utilities Board, so that we'll better understand things like how they use the

interruption formula. I'm going to be directing the Public Utilities Board on

that shortly, as soon as we get Royal Assent on the bill. I look forward to

making those reports and information public.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Ferryland.

L. O'DRISCOLL:

Thank you, Speaker.

That

report is going to be done in six months' time; people need help today, not

later. They need it today.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

L. O'DRISCOLL:

As fuel prices rise, so, too,

will the cost of food. Food is up 9 per cent since last year. A package of bacon

costs $9 in Labrador West. One green pepper is $3 in Gander.

Why has

the minister allowed residents of this province to suffer with high food prices?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Digital Government and Service NL

S. STOODLEY:

Thank you, Speaker.

I guess

what I can speak to is, in our consumer protection legislation, we do have rules

around unconscionable acts. So we do get price gouging complaints to our

department. Anyone who thinks that they've been price gouged is welcome to make

a complaint to our office and we'll do an investigation.

It is

difficult because the price of everything is going up, the price of gas and

everything is going up globally. This isn't a Newfoundland and Labrador problem.

In our budget, we did have $140 million support for people and we are looking to

see what else we could do.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for Grand

Falls-Winsor - Buchans.

C. TIBBS:

It may not be just a

Newfoundland and Labrador problem, but that's what we're worried about mostly

here today.

Speaker,

a woman in my district featured on the front page of

The Telegram is unsure if she can afford to travel to St. John's for

specialized appointments. While she may get reimbursed from the Medical

Transportation Assistance Program, she will still be out thousands of dollars to

receive the health care that she truly needs.

I ask

the minister: Why is this Liberal government making people choose between urgent

medical appointments and being able to afford to survive?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Health and Community Services.

J. HAGGIE:

Thank you very much, Speaker.

Again,

we recognize that these are challenging times, and the Minister of Finance has

referenced the $142 million we've put back in people's pockets, in addition to

the ability to avoid doubling your electricity rates.

With

specifics to the Medical Transportation Assistance Program, Mr. Speaker, we have

made significant changes to that prior to Christmas –

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Oh, oh!

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

J. HAGGIE:

– with removing of

deductibles and increasing the flexibility about people's stay and their meal

allowance and such. I am pleased to report to the House that this is an active

discussion as we are looking at ways to improve that program yet further. I hope

to be able to bring something back for public consumption in the not-too-distant

future.

Thank

you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for Grand

Falls-Windsor - Buchans.

C. TIBBS:

We've heard the $142 million,

and it's appreciated, it is a step in the right direction, but obviously as you

can tell from the stories, it doesn't go far enough and that's what we're asking

for right now.

A small

business owner in my district told me that because of the high price of gas

people are not driving or spending the little bit of money that they have left.

As a result, their business is suffering. She has $25 left in her bank account

to buy food.

What

does the minister say to the small business owners who may have to give up on

their livelihood or any future small business owners that wish to start a small

business here in Newfoundland and Labrador?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Finance and President of Treasury Board.

S. COADY:

Thank you very much, Speaker.

Indeed,

as I said, these are very difficult times, globally. I know that small business

owners have worked very, very hard in their businesses; I was one of them. I can

appreciate that these are difficult times for them. But we are in a situation in

Newfoundland and Labrador where our retail sales are up – up over inflation, up

over last year, doing better. So, hopefully, the products and services that the

Member opposite refers to, the small business, is getting some of that increased

activity in our economy.

addition to that, our restaurants are booming and are back to 2019 levels,

Speaker. So the economy in Newfoundland and Labrador, while there are difficult

times, the economy is improving.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Exploits.

P. FORSEY:

What they're taking out of

people is going to be more than $142 million.

Mr.

Speaker, a constituent from my district reached out to my office stating that

they were recently scheduled for a medical procedure in St. John's, only to

travel 400 kilometres and be told that their appointment had been cancelled

because there was no bed available and to go home and reschedule the

appointment. Mr. Speaker, this is simply not good enough with gas at $2 per

litre.

How does

government expect this individual to be able to afford to travel back to St.

John's for a rescheduled appointment?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Health and Community Services.

J. HAGGIE:

Thank you very much, Speaker.

We know,

as with other jurisdictions, that COVID has produced an increase in backlogs and

an increase in wait times. We have, through good management of COVID, managed to

reduce that as far as is practicable for cancer surgeries, urgencies, radiation,

chemotherapy and those kinds of things.

We know

that this still remains a challenge. Last week we announced an initiative with

the Ottawa Heart Institute, which will significantly improve the availability of

cardiac care at home and elsewhere.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Oh, oh!

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

J. HAGGIE:

We have also today announced

a further initiative which will increase access to –

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Oh, oh!

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

The hon.

the Minister of Health and Community Services.

J. HAGGIE:

– hip and joint replacements,

possibly one of the largest numerical problems in the province.

I could

go on, Mr. Speaker, but I see my –

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The minister's time has

expired.

The hon.

the Member for Terra Nova.

L. PARROTT:

He wasn't lying when he said

he could go on and on, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker,

a constituent of mine recently moved from the G. B. Cross Memorial Hospital in

Clarenville to a long-term care facility in Bonavista. Due to an outbreak and

lack of staff in Bonavista, the move was delayed.

Once he

made it to the long-term care facility, he received a bill from Eastern Health

for almost $900. Speaker, the man had a feeding tube and was still being

medically treated.

I ask

the minister: Is this Liberal government now charging patients for feeding

tubes?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Health and Community Services.

J. HAGGIE:

Thank you very much, Speaker.

There is

a copay required for long-term care, depending on the income of the individual

concerned. This has been in place for many years, and in actual fact I think was

instituted originally under a previous Conservative government.

In terms

of payment, once alternate level of care has been introduced for an individual

in an acute care facility, there is a small per diem which is actually less than

that copay.

Obviously, if there are issues of financial hardship, there is an exemption

policy. I would urge the Member opposite to supply my department with details

should he feel that's the case.

Thank

you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for Terra

Nova.

L. PARROTT:

The patient was still under

care, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker,

yesterday I heard from a small business operator in my district who said, quote:

I had an employee call me to say that due to steep rising costs of fuel he will

no longer be able to pay for heat, groceries and personal items, such as

insurance and fuel. He then told me that the man was crying on the phone saying

he doesn't know what to do anymore.

I ask

the minister: How do small businesses with modest incomes stay in business today

with the astronomical rising cost of fuel and goods?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Industry, Energy and Technology.

A. PARSONS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I am

happy to answer this question from the Member. Small business is something that

we're always concerned with. Again, we've had some challenging years over the

last couple of years when we deal with COVID. What I will say is that during

that time we have gone out of our way using funding to try to help businesses

get through the challenges that we all face.

believe we put in well over $20 million to $30 million as it related to small

business supports and did so in a very quick turnaround time. So what I would

say is that we're always willing to work with businesses on innovative options

and solutions, and we acknowledge the challenges that small business faces right

now.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Labrador West.

J. BROWN:

Thank you, Speaker.

This

Liberal government talks about climate change but has no solid plan to deal with

the current realities putting the future of workers and communities at risk. We

have roads and homes about to wash away here on the Island, loss of sea ice in

our North affecting the way of life for Indigenous communities and stronger and

more frequent storms hitting our shores.

I ask

the Premier: Why has he chosen to bury his head in the sand rather than plan for

the fast-approaching future and take action to provide a plan for all residents

of this province?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Environment and Climate Change.

B. DAVIS:

Thank you, Speaker.

I thank

the hon. Member for the question. It is very important.

Obviously, we all in this House share the same concerns about climate change. We

understand that. That is why we put in place the Climate Change Action Plan.

We have

moved on all 45 recommendations of that plan. We haven't got them all completed.

I think we have some 70 per cent of them completed and some of the others are in

various stages of completion.

Obviously, we're working on trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We have

developed, in this budget alone, two initiatives: one from oil to electric and

EV support program, rebate program. Those are things that we are working on.

There is going to be more to come.

We look

forward to supporting the House for any initiatives that we do look forward for

with respect to climate change initiatives. It is an important issue for not

just this province, the globe.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Torngat Mountains.

L. EVANS:

Speaker, residents of

Northern Labrador are already impacted by climate change. The loss of sea ice

and snow cover are robbing us of our ability to hunt, fish and travel.

I ask

the Premier: How does his government plan to mitigate these impacts to the

people in the communities that are impacted?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Environment and Climate Change.

B. DAVIS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank

the hon. Member for the question. I know that we have spoken in the House on

many occasions about this very issue. Climate change is negatively impacting the

north of – not just our province but in Canada, more negatively than other parts

of the province. We see this; we understand the impacts of it. That's why we're

sitting here today debating issues about climate change and talking about it.

That's the first step.

I think

the action that we're doing now is a good first step. There is much more that

has to be done. We're committed as a government to do what we can. We have

established the Net-Zero Advisory Council that's going to bring forward

fantastic ideas from around the world. We'll look at ways we can either

foundationally improve on our aspects or look at aspects that we haven't done

for the future to make those climate change initiatives happen.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Torngat Mountains.

L. EVANS:

Climate change in Northern

Labrador serves as an early warning for the rest of our province.

Will the

Premier come with me to my district so he can see and hear the accounts

first-hand of the people that are impacted in my communities?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Environment and Climate Change.

B. DAVIS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I thank

the hon. Member for the invitation. I look forward to visiting her district with

her on a regular occasion.

In all

seriousness, it is really, really important for us to have this conversation.

Many departments across government – I think some 11 departments – are working

on climate change initiatives as we speak, which is important. I know the

Minister of IET is working very hard with SmartICE and technology firms that are

going to help provide the best, advanced information to those experiencing

changes in the North through their patterns.

We want

to make sure we're working with the leadership of our Indigenous organizations

and governments to find solutions that we can find as fast as we possibly can,

because we understand how important it is.

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

The

minister's time has expired.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for St.

John's Centre.

J. DINN:

I'd remind the minister to

save some breath for my question.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

J. DINN:

In yesterday's debate on our

PMR, there was no shortage of acknowledgment of the impact of climate change on

our province. Even the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture today

acknowledged that forest fire season is getting earlier and earlier.

I ask

the Minister of Environment and Climate Change if his department has done a risk

assessment of projected – or project the costs of the financial impact of

climate change on public infrastructure and private property?

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Environment and Climate Change.

B. DAVIS:

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I

thank the hon. Member for another great climate change question.

One of

the things that I would talk about is revisionist history, but we all talked in

this House about supporting a just transition, looking at ways we can support

our communities. Many of the things that we have, whether it be coastal erosion

or changes in making sure our infrastructure fits the changing needs of climate

change: those are all things we're working on.

Flood

risk mapping is one of the key things that we're looking at. We've invested $1.2

million in this budget, shared with the federal government. There is going to be

more coming for that. Every community needs that information to make decisions

based on the availability of infrastructure to protect that infrastructure, both

municipalities and residential.

Thank

you, Mr. Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The time for Question Period

has expired.

Presenting Reports by Standing and Select Committees.

Tabling

of Documents.

Notices

of Motion.

Notices of Motion

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I give

notice that I will on tomorrow move in accordance with Standing Order 11(1) that

this House not adjourn at 5:30 p.m. on Monday May 30, 2022.

SPEAKER:

Further notices of motion?

Answers

to Questions for which Notice has been Given.

Petitions.

Petitions

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

Thank you, Speaker. I

appreciate the acknowledgement.

The

background for this petition is as follows: With the rising cost of fuel and

having a dramatic effect on our truck drivers in our province, drivers are

finding it increasingly difficult to pay their bills, maintain their machines

and pay for ever-increasing fuel costs. This means that for many they must spend

more time on the road with smaller margins of survival, and for those with

families, more time away from home.

Therefore we petition the hon. House of Assembly as follows:

urge the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to consider a fuel rebate for

truckers so that they can continue to supply those essential services to so many

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that depend on it daily.

This is several times I've introduced this, but I keep

getting calls on it every day, Speaker. This one here for more people in

different parts of my district, and another district actually, from Parker's

Cove and from – this one's from St. Bernard's-Jacques Fontaine, so it affects us

all.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Oh,

oh!

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

It's hard to hear the Member speak.

The hon. the Member for Placentia West - Bellevue.

DWYER:

Thank you Speaker.

I'll conclude with saying I'm getting these calls

daily. Like I said, truck drivers are at a point now, as we can see with some of

the bigger operations, their costs – are better off not making any money and

parking their trucks as opposed to fueling them up and not realizing any profit

margins.

So we really have to step up and help the people that

kept our economy going. These are the essential workers that we touted for two

years and now that they need us, we can't turn our backs on them, Speaker. I

think we really need to step up and help out everybody in the province with the

rising cost of fuel.

Thank you, Speaker.

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Exploits.

FORSEY:

Thank you, Speaker.

Residents on Route 350, 351A and 352 in the Exploits

District are concerned about the road conditions on these routes causing safety

issues and damages to vehicles.

We, the undersigned, urge the government to immediately

have roadwork contracted to upgrade and improve road conditions on these routes.

Mr. Speaker, I've had three meetings with three

different ministers on these routes three years past and we haven't had any new

pavement or anything on those routes. I've mentioned to the current minister on

different occasions of these routes. We have buses, we have pedestrians and we

have people walking there, some leading to communities.

The roads are in real poor condition, Mr. Speaker, and

we'd like to have some upgrades; we'd like to have some new pavement there. But

for this year we'd also like to see some faster improvements in regard to the

upgrades of the roads and getting them fixed up.

According to the roads plan this year we're left out

again, so at least get the roads fixed up as soon as they can, so we can ensure

some safety on those roadways, Mr. Speaker. So we'd like to see that addressed

right away.

Thank you.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The

hon. the Member for Ferryland.

O'DRISCOLL:

Thank you, Speaker.

The background to this petition is as follows: The

Witless Bay Line is a significant piece of infrastructure.

Whereas many commute

outside the Avalon on a daily basis for work, as well, commercial, residential

and tourism growth in the region has increased the volume of traffic on this

highway.

Therefore we petition the House of Assembly as follows:

We urge the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to upgrade this significant

piece of infrastructure to enhance and improve the flow of traffic to and from

the Trans-Canada Highway.

Speaker, I presented this petition on numerous

occasions. The condition of the Witless Bay Line is really bad; there's a

section of eight or 10 kilometres – we did have one side done two years ago of

four kilometres, and probably eight or nine years ago on the other side another

three or four kilometres done. But there's a

section in the middle of that

that's really bad. It's used for transportation during this time of the year for

crab plants and truckers trucking crab across Witless Bay Line to go from all

the communities along the Ferryland District, to go to all the processing plants

to truck the crab away.

I get a lot of calls on the conditions of the roads.

This time of the year, campers now, instead of going along the Witless Bay Line

on the May 24 weekend, most of those people will drive out to Bay Bulls and go

out around the Trans-Canada instead of taking the Witless Bay Line. It's too

hard on their equipment. Also gets mentioned motorcyclists, the same thing.

They're zigzagging around portions of the road and big potholes there, so they

haven't got a chance on a motorcycle. They hit one pothole they're done.

I've also had constituents call me that they've lost

two tires, a rim and a tire both on the same side. Struck a pothole, no chance

to get away from it. It's just something that needs to be looked at; it needs to

be fixed, so hopefully the minister can see it in his roads plan for next year

to be able to get done.

Thank you, Speaker.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Bonavista.

C. PARDY:

Thank you, Speaker.

With the

release of the Atlantic Seal Science Task Team report and the significance of

the commercial harvest to the fishers and plant workers in the District of

Bonavista, we feel that the seal population is far greater than the ecosystem

can sustain. As a result, the large population is certainly preventing the

rebuilding of our valuable groundfish stock and the very significant landed

value of our commercial harvest.

We,

the undersigned, call upon the House of Assembly to urge the Government of

Newfoundland and Labrador to immediately address the seal population by taking

proactive measures on fulfilling our current provincial quota of seals and

enhancing the markets of seal products within our province and other

jurisdictions. Action is long overdue.

The

report of the team was supposed to be one year but it took over two years to

complete. A well-known seal researcher in the province had stated where is our

provincial government on this long-term unaddressed issue? Well, I know that if

you checked under the department's seal science or seal industry website, you

would find that there has not been a news release under seals since 2015. So

when this person asked what has our government done in relation to the seals and

the inordinate number of seals, then all you need to do is look at the

government web page under sealing and find there are no news releases. If there

are no news releases, chances are there is not much happening with the seal

situation in our ecosystem.

went through Estimates and the only

section in the Estimates under the FFA was

section 2.1.06. 2.1.06 is the Seal Product Inventory Financing. I'd like to

inform all the people who are viewing this afternoon that in the budget there is

zero dollars in that

section for anything to do with the seal product inventory.

stated last time and to conclude, the report states that the diet and the

consumption by harp seals in 2014 was estimated at 3.2-million metric tons, and

in that same year, 2014, we harvested 256,000. The reality being we have one

aspect of our fishery that is viable, that is the snow crab. We know that with

the stomachs released that they do eat snow crab too.

Thank you, Minister.

SPEAKER:

Orders of the Day.

Orders of the Day

SPEAKER: The hon. the Deputy Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Speaker, I call from the Order Paper, Motion 1.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Speaker, I move, seconded by

the Minister for Children, Seniors and Social Development:

WHEREAS

section 4 of the Seniors Advocate Act

provides that on resolution of the House of Assembly, the Lieutenant-Governor in

Council shall appoint a Seniors' Advocate;

THEREFORE

BE IT RESOLVED that Susan Walsh be appointed as the Seniors' Advocate.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Minister of

Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

Thank you, Speaker.

It is

both my honour and my pleasure to recommend Susan Walsh as the next Seniors'

Advocate.

AN HON. MEMBER:

An excellent choice.

J. ABBOTT:

I agree.

Susan

Walsh began her career in 1991 as a social worker in mental health services at

the Waterford Hospital working with seniors, people with disabilities and the

community at large. She progressed through front-line management, policy

analysis, program development, project management, director/senior management

and executive positions in the public sector.

Susan

Walsh held these progressive leadership roles within the former Department of

Social Services; Eastern Regional Health Authority; Department of Health and

Community Services, where I first met Susan; the former Department of Child,

Youth and Family Services. She has worked in the Cabinet Secretariat; on the

Core Mandate Office of Executive Council. She has worked with the Labour

Relations Agency; Municipal Affairs Fire and Emergency Services; and currently

as the deputy minister of the Department of Children, Seniors and Social

Development since January of 2019.

Susan

has held firm to her social work roots and the importance of community and is a

registered social worker with the College of Social Workers in the province.

Susan Walsh holds a Master of Social Work degree, specializing in policy and

administration, from the University of Toronto, and has a Bachelor of Social

Work degree from our Memorial University. Susan is married and has two young

adult children who are completing post-secondary studies.

Speaker,

and hon. Members, I have known Susan Walsh since 2004; she is highly regarded

within her profession, within the public service and within the political

leadership here, in government, on both sides of the House. It is, I think, to

our credit that Susan put her name forward for this position and I know she will

excel in it. But more importantly, she will work fully and absolutely in the

interests of seniors of this province – obviously – for which the Advocate is

responsible. So I will be looking forward to working with her, should this

resolution pass.

Speaker,

I move, now, seconded by the Member for Placentia - St. Mary's, that the

resolution respecting the appointment of the Seniors' Advocate be amended as

follows: By adding immediately after the last recital the following: AND BE IT

FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the said appointment be effective June 15, 2022.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

This

House is going recess to review the proposed amendment.

Recess

SPEAKER:

Are the House Leaders ready?

Order,

please!

After

review of the proposed amendment, I do find that the amendment is in order. We

will now debate the amendment.

The hon.

the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

Thank you, Speaker.

I now

ask that the Members consider the resolution.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Member for

Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

Thank you, Speaker.

It is

the pleasure of the Official Opposition caucus to support this resolution to

appoint Susan Walsh as Newfoundland and Labrador's Seniors' Advocate.

I would

be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the great work our former Seniors' Advocate,

Dr. Suzanne Brake, has done. This is a resolution a long time coming, and we are

looking forward to Ms. Walsh starting in her new role right away so the

important work of this statutory office can proceed in the best interests of the

seniors of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The

purpose and function of the Seniors' Advocate is laid out in the

Seniors Advocate Act ,

section 3, which reads as follows: “ The Office of the Seniors' Advocate is established

to (

a) identify, review and analyze systemic issues related to seniors;(

b) work

collaboratively with seniors' organizations, service providers and others to

identify and address systemic issues related to seniors; and (

c) make

recommendations to government and government agencies respecting changes to

improve seniors'

services.”

The

statutory office of the House of Assembly was established and the first Seniors'

Advocate, Dr. Suzanne Brake, was appointed in November of 2017. As the statutory

office, this office shares the standing of the other statutory offices of the

House of Assembly: the Auditor General, the Child and Youth Advocate, the

Citizens' Representative, the Information and Privacy Commissioner, the Chief

Electoral Officer and the Commissioner for Legislative Standards.

Statutory offices are established by statute law and report to the people's

House of Assembly through the Speaker. They are independent of the Executive

Branch of government and are not directed by Cabinet ministers. In fact, they

can function in an oversight capacity to review the work of Cabinet and the

actions and decisions of government departments.

They serve in watchdog roles as well to safeguard the public interests and to

bring accountability. This is why they are vitally important and should never be

impeded from carrying out their vital functions. Having a trusted leader at the

helm of each of these offices is paramount.

is imperative that the seniors in this province have an Advocate whose sole

responsibility is to be their voice and their champion vis-à-vis the system. We

are overjoyed to see someone of the caliber of Susan Walsh step forward to serve

in this capacity. She is someone who knows the system intricately and will have

no learning curve.

She

has held firm to her social work roots and the importance of community and is a

registered social worker with the College of Social Workers in the province. Ms.

Walsh holds a Master of Social Work degree, specializing in policy and

administration from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Social Work

degree from Memorial University.

She

has worked under governments of various stripes, leaders and approaches. She has

seen it all and it was my honour go through Estimates three times with her with

the Department of CSSD, and now she is bringing her insights and formidable

expertise to a brand new role which will free her to investigate, report and

recommend changes that will light a fire under whichever government happens to

be in place during her term.

The

act provides for a term of six years, followed by the option of reappointment

for another six years for a maximum of 12 years. Terms of this length provide

stability to give the

Seniors' Advocate the ability to monitor things over a long period of time and

follow through on recommendations to ensure they are implemented properly and

deliver positive outcomes.

With the

Health Accord just reporting with far-reaching recommendations impacting

seniors, it is vital that the Seniors' Advocate be instrumental in monitoring

the implementation of the accord's recommendations to ensure seniors are well

served.

None in

our society rely on the health system more than seniors, so they have a vested

interest in ensuring change happens properly. Seniors are not just our

great-grandparents, grandparents, moms and dads, they are also all of us on a

path to becoming seniors, if we are fortunate enough to see our golden years.

Even our youngest children are on that path. It is incumbent on us as a society

to change the way we view aging and seniors so we become more understanding of

the changing needs of people as they age. So we approach their care with

compassion and so we always respect a senior's need to be in control of their

lives to the greatest extent possible.

Autonomy

is about basic human dignity, and seniors, informed by lifetimes of lived

experience, are usually the best ones to be able to make choices with the wisdom

and knowledge that experience brings. Our society should honour our seniors and

treat their needs with the utmost concern. We need to learn from cultures that

respect the importance of honouring the community elders, particularly the

Indigenous communities of Newfoundland and Labrador. We need to be humble enough

to acknowledge that as a society we do not always get it right. Our policies

sometimes leave a lot to be desired. We need to be told how to do things better

and we need to listen and act accordingly.

So we

all trust that our new Seniors' Advocate will give us hard lessons in what is

being done wrong and needs to be improved. We don't just nod our heads, we truly

listen and we act and we take the concerns of Newfoundland and Labrador seniors

seriously.

Good

luck, Ms. Walsh; may you spare no effort in holding our feet to the fire.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

Seeing no other speakers,

does the amendment carry?

The hon.

the Member for Torngat Mountains.

L. EVANS:

We, the Third Party, also

support this appointment of Susan Walsh to the role as Seniors' Advocate. We do

agree that she brings a vast knowledge and experience with her previous role in

CSSD. We think that she'll have no trouble transitioning to the role as Seniors'

Advocate.

The role

of Seniors' Advocate is actually very, very important. They are tasked with

being able to bring a delicate balance to advocacy and protection, advancing

seniors' rights and quality of life in the province. So, we, the Third Party

support this appointment.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SPEAKER:

Any further speakers?

The hon.

the Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I am

going to move on to the next one on the Order Paper, but I wanted to chime my

voice in with what's already been said here today and send a bouquet up in the

gallery to Susan Walsh.

For 3½

years I had the tremendous privilege of working very closely with this lady. I

can tell you that she is a hard worker; I would put her work ethic next to

anyone that I have worked with in government. She is capable, she is competent;

she was an instrument of change in many of the challenges that we dealt with, in

particular in child welfare and she stood out and did very, very well. I have no

doubt that she is going to do a great job as the Seniors' Advocate.

Seniors

are something that are very near and dear to my heart. Most know my story; my

grandparents were already raising nine children when they took me in and

finished raising me from four years old onward. I have much love and respect for

seniors.

behalf of all Members of the Legislature, we wish you very well in what will be

a challenging portfolio but I'm sure rewarding.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I call

from the Order Paper, Order –

SPEAKER:

Order, please!

haven't voted on the amendment.

Seeing

no other speakers, I call for the question.

All

those in favour of the amendment, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

SPEAKER:

All those against, 'nay.'

The

amendment is carried.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

Are there any speakers to the main motion?

Seeing

no speakers, shall the amended motion carry?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

SPEAKER:

All those against, 'nay.'

Motion

carried.

The hon.

the Deputy Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Getting ahead of myself,

Speaker. It's been a long week.

I call

from the Order Paper, Order 3, Bill 61.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I move,

seconded by the Minister of Fishery, Forestry and Aquaculture, that Bill 61, An

Act To Amend The Forestry Act, be now read a third time.

SPEAKER:

It has been moved and

seconded that the said bill be now read a third time.

Seeing

no other speakers, is it the pleasure of the House to adopt this motion?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

SPEAKER:

All those against, 'nay.'

Motion

carried.

CLERK (Barnes):

A bill,

An Act To Amend The

Forestry Act. (Bill 61)

SPEAKER:

This bill has now been read a

third time and it is ordered that the bill do pass and that its title be as on

the Order Paper.

motion, a bill, “An Act To Amend The Forestry Act,” read a third time, ordered

passed and its title be as on the Order Paper. (Bill 61)

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I call

from the Order Paper, Order 12, second reading of Bill 62.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I move,

seconded by the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, that Bill

62,

An Act To Amend The Child and Youth Advocate Act, be now read a second time.

SPEAKER: It

is moved and seconded that Bill 62 – sorry, we don't need a seconder; we already

started debate on that bill.

Any

speakers to the bill?

The hon.

the Member for Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

Thank you, Speaker.

Speaker,

the work of the Child and Youth Advocate is extremely important to the children

and youth of our province. I will

preamble my comments directly relating to the

bill in identifying some of the Advocate's recommendations to the department.

This clearly identifies the importance of the Child and Youth Advocate and my

direct comments will follow, pertaining to the bill.

It is

very important that the social well-being of children and efforts to combat

poverty be a priority. Today, with escalating food prices, and more and more

children facing challenges, it is important for the government to pay attention

to all recommendations of the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate. In

addition to the recommendations already implemented, the recommendations

partially implemented should be completed, and the government must also move

forward to finalize the recommendations that have not yet been implemented at

all.

Out-of-community placements for children in Labrador is a topic that has great

impact on children and families. Has the department considered all options

pertaining to placing children outside the community and ensuring full

consultation with each child's family and Advocate and, secondly, with the

Nunatsiavut Government? Has the audit been finalized pertaining to all

out-of-community placements?

The

Child and Youth Advocate stresses the importance of following through on these

recommendations and we must recognize the importance of all recommendations

coming from the statutory officer filling this crucial position.

Speaker, with the minister, the safe placement of Indigenous children is

critical. The Child and Youth Advocate emphasizes the importance of

safe-placement options for Indigenous children and youth. A visitation centre,

emergency placements, a parent-coaching centre, a healing facility, a transition

home placement centre for children and parents, these are vitally important. We

need to be certain the minister appreciates the importance of each of these

centres and can explain what is being done to ensure the centres are improving

the lives of children. All this work must be a top priority of the government.

Since COVID struck, and now because of global inflation, the cost of goods and

services in Labrador is escalating. It is extremely important that the

government review and increase the financial supports to Indigenous children,

families and caregivers. The people of Labrador are seeing higher prices than

elsewhere so the urgency is greater and needed immediately.

It's important that we continue to hear from the Child and Youth Advocate and

just as important for the government to implement all measures recommended.

The

incorporation of gender-neutral language is also important. I am pleased to see

the amendment in the act.

The

Advocate is an officer of this House. The Independent Appointments Commission

identifies the person they believe is most capable of filling the role and the

House of Assembly makes the decision based on merit. The term of office of six

years is reasonable and reappointing for another additional six years is also

reasonable, on the condition that the office is performing its duties as

outlined in its mandate. To date, the Advocate's office has been doing stellar

work. We have every confidence this will continue.

see no issue with the Management Commission approving a person in an acting

position; however, I believe it is important there be a timeline agreed to

appoint a permanent Advocate. This is not to say the person performing the role

in an acting capacity is not the best person for the job or the most qualified,

but it is a matter of transparency.

an Advocate resigns, retires or passes away, the Management Commission will

ensure the work of this office is not interrupted by immediately appointing an

acting Advocate. However, a reasonable time frame to fill the person permanently

should be identified in the act .

As the Official Opposition, we support this bill and look forward to continuing

the work of this crucial office.

Thank

you, Speaker.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

SPEAKER:

Are there any other speakers

to the bill?

The hon.

the Member for Torngat Mountains.

L. EVANS:

Yes, Speaker, just a few

thoughts on the amendment. It's very straightforward. It allows for the

extension of the interim appointment, allowing the interim Advocate to remain in

place until a permanent Advocate can be secured.

However,

sometimes, as was mentioned by my hon. colleague, it's not the best solution,

but we do have to find balance. I think maybe, to help out further thought

should be put into the recruitment process. Advocates, like the Seniors'

Advocate and the Child and Youth Advocate, play critical roles in our province.

It's

understandable the position of the Child and Youth Advocate demands a person of

high qualifications and experience to take it on and have much knowledge of the

files they'll be dealing with. So time needs to be taken to secure such a

qualified person. So we do understand that.

Having

the interim Advocate sit until a permanent one can be secured is the best

solution, so therefore we support this amendment as well.

Thank

you.

SPEAKER:

Seeing no other speakers if

the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development speaks now, we will

close debate.

The hon.

the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

Speaker, thank you for this

opportunity to conclude the debate on this bill. I appreciate the comments from

the Member for Placentia West - Bellevue and from the Member for Torngat

Mountains.

I agree

with their comments. This is a very important office and one that has a high

respect, certainly of this House and the community and the province at large. So

it's incumbent upon us to make sure we get – quote, unquote – the right person

in this position. And we're going through that process and I'm very confident

that when we come back next session that we will be in a position to bring a

name forward.

In the

meantime, I just want to assure the House and the province that the office is

working through the acting Advocate. Their work continues, the reports are still

being prepared and it will be filed. My department in particular is working on

the recommendations from the former Advocate – plural – and we're making

significant progress on those recommendations. We have people assigned

specifically to address those recommendations to ensure that they are addressed

and implemented as soon as we can.

When it

comes to the issue around the relationship my department has and the Advocate

has with the Indigenous communities, that's working very well and there's

definitely a very high degree of mutual respect, both at the political level and

at the professional level. And as a result we're seeing significant improvements

in the care arrangements for Indigenous children, particularly in Labrador.

So,

Speaker, I will conclude on that and I look forward to support of the bill.

Thank

you.

SPEAKER:

Is the House ready for the

question?

The

motion is that Bill 62 now be read a second time.

Is it

the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

SPEAKER:

All those against, 'nay.'

Motion

carried.

CLERK:

A bill,

An Act To Amend The

Child And Youth Advocate Act. (Bill 62)

SPEAKER:

This bill has now been read a

second time.

When

shall the bill be referred to a Committee of the Whole?

L. DEMPSTER:

Now.

SPEAKER:

Now.

motion, a bill, “An Act To Amend The Child And Youth Advocate Act,” read a

second time, ordered referred to a Committee of the Whole presently, by leave.

(Bill 62)

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I move,

seconded by the Minister for Children, Seniors and Social Development, that the

House resolve itself into Committee of the Whole to consider Bill 62.

SPEAKER:

It is moved and seconded that

I do now leave the Chair for the House to resolve itself into Committee of the

Whole to consider the said bill.

Is it

the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

SPEAKER:

All those against, 'nay.'

Motion

carried.

motion, that the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole, the Speaker

left the Chair.

Committee of the

Whole

CHAIR (Warr):

Order, please!

We are

now considering Bill 62,

An Act To Amend The Child And Youth Advocate Act.

A bill,

“An Act To Amend The Child And Youth Advocate Act.” (Bill 62)

CLERK:

Clause 1.

CHAIR:

Shall clause 1 carry?

The

Chair recognizes the Member for Cape St. Francis.

J. WALL:

Thank you, Chair.

It is

good to be able to stand in Committee to speak to Bill 62. I would say to the

minister to pass along our thanks to your staff for the technical briefing that

we attended.

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Hear, hear!

J. WALL:

You're only as good as the

staff around you, so I can tell you that.

Mr.

Chair, we do support the bill; however, we do have a couple of questions. The

first one is: How does a timeline to approve the appointment of the acting Child

and Youth Advocate compare to that of other acting statutory Officers, for

example, the acting Seniors' Advocate or AG?

CHAIR:

The hon. the Minister of

Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

Thank you, Chair.

I don't

know if I can give a retrospective in terms of what the experience has been in

recent years. I know, right now, having the acting Advocate in place since the

retirement of the former Advocate has worked well, and we're looking at now,

roughly, a five-month period of acting. The Seniors' Advocate office actually

doesn't have an acting Seniors' Advocate at the moment, but the work is being

done at the staff level. So they're the only two that I can speak to at present.

Obviously, you'd like to limit that acting period as short as possible but we

think it is, given the nature of the position, making sure we get the right

skill set and the right person in place: that's why it has taken the time it

has.

CHAIR:

The hon. the Member for Cape

St. Francis.

J. WALL:

Thank you, Chair.

You

answered my second question, so I will move on to my third one.

Ms. Gray

was appointed as the Child and Youth Advocate on January 14 of this year. Is

there any date for a permanent Advocate to be appointed, and where in the

Independent Appointments Commission process is this file?

CHAIR:

The hon. the Minister of

Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

I know the recruitment

process is going along quite well and there has been a fair bit of interest in

the position, as I have been told. It will be up to the Cabinet, in due course,

to review any of the recommendations from the Independent Appointments

Commission and we, collectively, are not ready for this session but working on

the premise that we will be ready for the next session.

CHAIR:

The hon. the Member for

Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

Thank you, Chair.

I, too,

on behalf of the Official Opposition, would like to thank our former Child and

Youth Advocates, Carol Chafe, Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh and wish Ms. Karen Gray

all success in this office.

The

question I have is around confidentiality. When a client signs a confidentiality

agreement with the Child and Youth Advocate, if that office is then vacated, can

the confidentiality agreement be parlayed into the next Advocate or does a new

confidentiality agreement have to be signed?

CHAIR:

The hon. the Minister of

Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

Chair, thank you.

The

legislation speaks to both the confidentiality and privacy of the office of any

of the files. So they would remain within the office. But anybody leaving the

office is held to their oath and to the legislation not to reveal anything that

they have learned, obviously, in the office.

CHAIR:

The hon. the Member for

Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

So just for clarity, one

Advocate can utilize a confidentiality to the next incoming?

CHAIR:

The hon. the Minister of

Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

I think that is fair to say,

Chair.

CHAIR:

Thank you.

The hon.

the Member for Placentia West - Bellevue.

J. DWYER:

And my last question on this

is: Will the interim Advocate have to prepare an annual report?

CHAIR:

The hon. the Minister of

Children, Seniors and Social Development.

J. ABBOTT:

Under the

Transparency and Accountability Act

that office would prepare their annual report. At the same time – but I don't

know this for certain – I understand she would be working on particular reviews

of files and investigations and then would report out. If that work is not

completed, then the new Advocate would pick up that work from there.

CHAIR:

Thank you.

Any

further questions?

Shall

the motion carry?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

CHAIR:

All those against, 'nay.'

Carried.

motion, clause 1 carried.

CLERK:

Clauses 2 through 28

inclusive.

CHAIR:

Shall clauses 2 through 28

inclusive carry?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

CHAIR:

All those against, 'nay.'

Carried.

motion, clauses 2 through 28 carried.

CLERK:

Be it enacted by the

Lieutenant-Governor and House of Assembly in Legislative Session convened, as

follows.

CHAIR:

Shall the enacting clause

carry?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

CHAIR:

All those against, 'nay.'

Carried.

motion, enacting clause carried.

CLERK:

An Act To Amend The Child And

Youth Advocate Act.

CHAIR:

Shall the title carry?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

CHAIR:

All those against, 'nay.'

Carried.

motion, title carried.

CHAIR:

Shall I report the bill

without amendment?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

CHAIR:

All those against, 'nay.'

Carried.

Motion,

that the Committee report having passed the bill without amendment, carried.

CHAIR:

The Deputy Government House

Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Chair.

I move

that the Committee rise and report Bill 62.

CHAIR:

The motion is that the

Committee rise and report Bill 62.

Is it

the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?

All

those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

CHAIR:

All those against, 'nay.'

Carried.

motion, that the Committee rise, report progress and ask leave to sit again, the

Speaker returned to the Chair.

SPEAKER (Bennett):

Order, please!

The hon.

the Member for Baie Verte - Green Bay and Chair of the Committee of the Whole.

B. WARR:

Speaker, the Committee of the

Whole have considered the

matters to them referred and have directed

me to report Bill 62 without amendment.

SPEAKER:

The Chair of the Committee of the Whole reports that the Committee have

considered the matters to them referred and directed him to report Bill 62

without amendment.

When shall the report be received?

L. DEMPSTER:

Now.

SPEAKER:

Now.

When

shall the bill be read a third time.

L. DEMPSTER:

Tomorrow.

SPEAKER:

Tomorrow.

On motion, report received and adopted.

Bill ordered read a third time on tomorrow.

SPEAKER:

The hon. the Deputy

Government House Leader.

L. DEMPSTER:

Thank you, Speaker.

I move,

seconded by the Government House Leader, that this House do now adjourn.

SPEAKER:

Is it the pleasure of the House to

adopt this motion?

All those in favour, 'aye.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Aye.

SPEAKER:

All those against, 'nay.'

SOME HON. MEMBERS:

Nay.

SPEAKER:

Motion carried.

The House stands adjourned until 1:30 p.m. on May 30. I wish everyone a safe and

enjoyable long weekend.

On motion, the House at its rising adjourned until tomorrow, Monday, May 30, at

1:30 p.m.