March 17, 2022
HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PROCEEDINGS
Vol. L No. 38
The
House met at 1:30 p.m.
SPEAKER (Bennett):
Order, please!
Admit
strangers.
Before
we start today, I would like to recognize one of our Commissionaires, Mr. Tom
Donovan, who will be retiring today from the Corps of Commissionaires at the end
of the day.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
Tom has been a part of our
security team at the House of Assembly for the past 16 years, of which the last
three years he was the Commissionaire site manager.
All the
best, Tom, in your retirement and thank you for your service.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
Today I would like to acknowledge and congratulate two former Pages and a Member
of this House, who are currently studying law at the University of New
Brunswick, and competing at the national rounds of the Sopinka Cup. Former Pages
Raylene Mackey and Alden Spencer, and former MHA Mark Browne will be joined by
their teammate Duncan Wallace, and coaches Professor Jane Thompson and James
Lockyer at the national event in Ottawa.
The
Sopinka Cup is awarded annually at the National Trial Advocacy Competition to
participating teams from across Canadian law schools. After regional
elimination, eight law schools representing the various geographical areas of
the country compete in the national finals for the Sopinka Cup.
On
behalf of the House of Assembly, I congratulate Raylene, Alden, Mark, Duncan and
their coaches, and I wish them all the best luck at the competition.
Congratulations.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
In the Speaker's gallery
today I would like to welcome Colleen Hogan, daughter of the former MHA William
Hogan. Colleen will be joining us today for a Member's Statement.
Welcome,
Colleen.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
Statements by
Members
SPEAKER:
Today we will hear Members' statements by the hon. Members for the Districts of
Topsail - Paradise, Placentia West - Bellevue, Torngat Mountains, Exploits and
Placentia - St. Mary's.
The hon.
the Member for Topsail - Paradise.
P. DINN:
Thank you, Speaker, and Happy
St. Paddy's Day to everyone. Hopefully there'll be no blarney today in the
House.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
P. DINN:
There's always hope.
Speaker,
I'm honoured today to extend congratulations to Brandon Bowen from the District
of Topsail - Paradise as being this year's Easter Seals Newfoundland and
Labrador Ambassador, and as well to thank last year's ambassador and also a
Topsail - Paradise resident, Gavin Baggs, on being such an exceptional role
model.
Brandon
was born with cerebral palsy and has been involved with Easter Seals since the
age of 12. He says that Easter Seals has helped him in so many ways, creating
friendships, boosting his self-esteem and feeling included. He has participated
in many Easter Seals programs and events over the years such as swimming,
boccia, sledge hockey, wheelchair basketball, youth socials and summer and
winter camps.
Brandon
is also a talented musician. At the age of nine, he started playing the button
accordion and, over the years, has played in many music festivals. He has played
at O'Reilly's Pub, shared the stage with Newfoundland and Labrador's most
popular bands such as Shanneyganock, Rum Ragged, Masterless Men and the legends
Bud Davidge and Fergus O'Byrne.
As a
young person with a disability, Brandon is excited about being the face and the
voice of people with disabilities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
Mr.
Speaker, I ask all to join me in congratulating Brandon.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Placentia West - Bellevue.
J. DWYER:
Thank you, Speaker.
Speaker,
I stand in this hon. Chamber today to recognize two courageous sisters from
Marystown in the beautiful District of Placentia West - Bellevue.
On
December 2, 2021, Mrs. Beatie Hooper and Mrs. Claudia Kelly celebrated the 30th
anniversary of their kidney transplant.
In the
late '80s, Beatie was diagnosed with kidney failure and, after diagnosis, Mrs.
Hooper would have to travel off the Burin Peninsula and away from her family for
four days each week for dialysis treatment. Shortly after dialysis started, they
started looking for a kidney donor for Mrs. Hooper. They tested the brothers and
sisters and, fortunately, her sister, Claudia, was a match.
Claudia
underwent many tests and procedures to ensure the transplant was a possibility.
Her commitment and dedication to helping her sister never wavered and her words
were: “If I can give her my kidney, she can most certainly have it.”
On
December 2, 1991, Beatie and Claudia travelled to Nova Scotia for the surgical
procedure, which was a success.
In
recognition of March being Kidney Month, I invite all hon. colleagues to join me
in congratulating Beatie and Claudia on the 30th anniversary of their kidney
transplant.
Thank
you.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Torngat Mountains.
L. EVANS:
Thank you, Speaker.
Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, which represents all Inuit women in Canada,
has named Emelia Angnatok, from Nain, as Young Inuk Woman of the Year. This is a
very prestigious award.
Emelia's
life is one of connection to her Inuit culture and traditions. She hunts, fishes
and traps with her father, growing into a strong, confident woman. A great role
model, she shows the utmost respect for her Elders.
A senior
at Jens Haven Memorial School, Emelia is a distinguished athlete and scholar. An
active community member, running a small business making traditional earrings,
promoting her Inuktitut language and participating in Inuktitut speak-offs,
promoting the language fluency, she is a positive influence on her community.
Emelia
said: “Being awarded the Young Inuk Woman of the Year Award showed me that no
matter where you come from, big or small, there are ample opportunities for
Inuit youth by showing passion about our culture and participating in events
that will carry on traditional practices. I'm beyond thankful to have been
awarded, and I hope that other Inuit youth will continue to do what I have been
doing by keeping our culture alive.
Emelia
plans to become a registered nurse, and all of Nunatsiavut is very proud of her.
Thank
you.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Exploits.
P. FORSEY:
Thank you, Speaker.
In
November 2021, the Loveman family of Leading Tickles appeared on national TV as
contestants of Family Feud Canada.
I would
like to congratulate the Loveman family, not only on their tremendous win of
$20,885 during three episodes to have won the most by any family from
Newfoundland and Labrador, but also for the way they promoted our province and
their community of Leading Tickles. Melissa, Amanda, Wendy, Trudy and Dexter
made us proud as they gave each answer, and sometimes made us laugh to hear
them.
Mr.
Speaker, I would like to ask all Members of this House of Assembly to join me in
congratulating the Loveman family and recognize – as in Trudy's own words – they
are the “moster.”
Thank
you, Mr. Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Placentia - St. Mary's.
S. GAMBIN-WALSH:
Speaker, Mr. William Hogan
was recognized for his dedication to the people of this province through a
political career that spanned almost 40 years.
His tenure in politics began
at the municipal level where he
served as mayor of the Town of Dunville and subsequently of the amalgamated
municipality of Placentia.
He served as president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of
Municipalities. He was elected in 1989 as the MHA for Placentia and was
appointed to the roles of Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister of Social
Services in the government of former Premier Clyde Wells. He was a long-standing
member of the provincial Liberal association.
He has been recognized and honoured on many occasions, awarded the Senate 150th
Anniversary Medal, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal and three Governor
General medals for his contributions to community, province and country.
He had a deep passion for sports and in 1975 was named national all-star coach
and subsequently was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame.
He will be remembered for his no nonsense approach to life. Mr. Bill Hogan
passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on January 12, 2022.
Please join me as I offer my condolences to his family and friends.
Thank you.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
Statements by Ministers.
Statements by Ministers
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you, Speaker.
I rise
today to recognize March as Pharmacy Appreciation Month. This is a time we
reflect and celebrate the important role pharmacists play in health care – a
role that's been very evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pharmacists are valued members of the team of health care professionals who help
protect Newfoundlanders and Labradorians against diseases such as COVID-19 by
administering vaccines and were instrumental in making us the leader in COVID-19
vaccination rates across the country.
Our
government has worked collaboratively with the Pharmacists' Association of
Newfoundland and Labrador and the Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board over
the past couple of years to improve their scope of practice, allowing
pharmacists to administer flu vaccinations in pharmacies at no cost to
residents. This removed an unnecessary barrier to access and allows better
protection for residents, no matter their age group or where they live. We also
expanded the ability of pharmacists to distribute a number of other vaccines.
Speaker,
we also recognize the valuable role for pharmacists in our primary health care
teams. As Collaborative Team Clinics, like the ones recently opened in St.
John's, become more prevalent in our towns and communities, pharmacists will be
one of the many team members serving the health care needs of individuals
through a team-based approach.
I ask
all Members to join me in acknowledging the important work of pharmacists in our
province in light of our ongoing efforts to help ensure access to health care.
Thank
you, Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Topsail - Paradise.
P. DINN:
I want to thank the minister
for an advance copy of his statement.
Speaker,
on behalf of the Official Opposition, we recognize March as Pharmacy
Appreciation Month and the contributions of our pharmacy professionals.
During
the COVID pandemic, pharmacy professionals, like many of our health care
professionals, have shouldered much of the burden to help us through the
pandemic. Pharmacies have remained open and accessible to those that require
their services and have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Through care,
support and education, pharmacy professionals have rose to the challenge to keep
our communities safe.
Speaker,
we recognize the invaluable contributions that our pharmacy professionals have
made during the pandemic and the future contributions they will make in the
lives of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Torngat Mountains.
L. EVANS:
I thank the minister for an
advance copy of his statement.
Our
caucus would also like to show our support for pharmacists of this province and
their role in Public Health especially during this pandemic. That is why we call
upon government to allow them to practice to the full scope of their abilities,
help unclog the bottleneck in our health care system by letting pharmacists
provide treatment for blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes and other
contributions as requested by pharmacists and their associates.
Thank
you, Mr. Speaker.
SPEAKER:
Further statements by
ministers?
The hon.
the Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology.
A. PARSONS:
Thank you, Speaker.
I am
pleased today to notify Members of the House of Assembly and indeed all
residents of the province of some exciting news – the Valentine Gold Project in Central
Newfoundland has been released from the provincial government's environmental
assessment and the project is approved to proceed.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
A. PARSONS:
I've got to give a shout out to my friend the minister responsible for
Environment.
Speaker, when completed, the Valentine Gold Project will be the largest
gold mine in Atlantic Canada and a significant contributor to the economy of
Newfoundland and Labrador.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
A. PARSONS:
According to Marathon, the company expects to create approximately 11,000
person years of employment in this province and an average of more than 400
employees annually.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
A. PARSONS:
Speaker, this will result in the generation of approximately $750 million
in income to workers and businesses located within our province.
The initial capital investment is estimated at $305 million; life-of-mine
capital investment is estimated at $662 million. Marathon estimates this project
will contribute $2.9 billion to the provincial GDP and approximately $400
million in incremental revenues to the Newfoundland and Labrador Treasury.
Speaker, this is a significant project that will provide numerous
economic benefits to Central Newfoundland and the entire province.
Our mining industry experienced a record breaking 2021 in terms of
exploration expenditures and value of mineral shipments. Our government fully
recognizes that the economic potential of the mining industry is critical for
our province and we will continue to support its growth.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and congrats to Marathon.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Terra Nova.
L. PARROTT:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I'd like to thank the minister for an advance
copy of his statement.
Speaker, it is indeed great news that Marathon's Valentine Gold Project
has been approved to proceed. The Valentine Gold Project will be the largest
gold mine in Atlantic Canada and with more than 400 employees will be a
significant employer, economic driver and contributor to, not only Central
Newfoundland but the entire Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
My caucus colleagues and I have met with representatives from Marathon
Gold on numerous occasions. Their passion for growing our province and for being
a strong corporate citizen is indeed infections. I congratulate Marathon Gold on
this important step towards gold production and I look forward to hearing
about job postings, site
construction and first gold in the not-too-distant future. Great news indeed.
Thank
you.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Labrador West.
J. BROWN:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I
thank the minister for an advance copy of his statement.
Developing a new mining industry opportunity is a welcome announcement for
workers of this province and for their communities that they are part of. Our
hope is that the project, and all new industry development, utilizes the world's
leading innovation and technologies, like the transitions we're seeing in
Labrador West that secure jobs, adds value to the resources mined and to the
global market, respects the environment and helps leave behind a future for many
generations.
Thank
you.
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.
Yesterday the Premier said, and I quote: “We all understand the importance of
the cost of living. I think we are all here because we want to make a
difference.” Yet seniors, those on low and fixed incomes are repeating again and
again how the plan announced isn't enough to support them and ignores the needs
of everyday Newfoundlanders and Labradorians feeling the cost of living crunch.
Will the
Premier finally listen to the people of the province and introduce a plan that
works?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Premier.
PREMIER A. FUREY:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Of
course we all recognize the stress and strain on families and seniors right now.
That's why we started with a five-step plan on Tuesday past with respect to
addressing seniors and the most vulnerable in our communities, Mr. Speaker.
It is
the start of a broader plan. Of course we have the budget coming up in the next
few weeks and we'll have an opportunity to debate more fulsomely how we are
caring for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, Mr. Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Official Opposition.
D. BRAZIL:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
We know
it was a start, but, Mr. Speaker, people can't wait a month or two before the
budget is passed here to actually deal with the cost of living crunch that
they're facing on a day-to-day basis.
The
Premier himself admitted their plan was flawed. He said, and I quote: “… it is
not the last of the plan and the minister will speak to budget.”
Why does
the Premier wait for the budget to be announced with additional measures when
people cannot afford to pay their bills today?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Premier.
PREMIER A. FUREY:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
It's
because we're trying to take a more holistic approach to looking at the cost of
living for people in the province, Mr. Speaker. We recognize the acute need of
the most vulnerable in society, that's why we want to get out ahead of the
budget.
That
said, we don't do myopic knee-jerk policy instruments. We want to make sure that
we're employing the right instrument at the right time to fully address the cost
of living as best we can, recognizing the externalities that exist on the
economics of the province, Mr. Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Official Opposition.
D. BRAZIL:
Mr. Speaker, I don't know if
it's knee jerk when people can't go to work anymore because they can't afford
gas, when people have to leave their home in the morning and find somewhere
where it's warm because they can't put their heat on and when people have to
make a decision between food and medication because of the additional cost of
living. I'd prefer to have a proactive approach here than a knee-jerk reaction.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
D. BRAZIL:
Speaker, following the
desperate situation described by the staff at the Labrador Inn, we see another
community group in Happy Valley-Goose Bay speaking out about the lack of housing
for women trying to escape abusive relationships. Libra House says people are
being forced into wooded areas and sleeping on park benches in frigid
temperatures. The federal government has denied requested funding and the
province has been ignoring the crisis for years.
Will the
Premier immediately take action to address this crisis situation?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Children, Seniors and Social Development.
J. ABBOTT:
Speaker, thank you for the
opportunity to respond.
I met
with the folks at Libra House in the fall and we talked to many of the issues
that the Leader of the Opposition raised. A couple of things: we provide over
$700,000 to Libra House to support their operations. We are also working with
them to see how they can expand their services. We're also addressing all the
other housing and homelessness issues in Labrador through an action team.
There
are a lot of conversations happening; a lot of investment taking place, and
their issues are being addressed.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Official Opposition.
D. BRAZIL:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
No
doubt, everybody welcomes investment, but, obviously, it's not enough. It's not
working because this organization here, as just outlined and we've heard in the
past the detrimental effect it's having on those people who don't have a place
to sleep, who can't escape abusive relationships.
Speaker,
as of February 7, there were 45 people on a wait-list for just three units in
Happy Valley-Goose Bay. This wait-list dates back years. It means women in
Labrador have an even more difficult time leaving an abusive relationship, which
risks keeping them in a dangerous situation.
Will the
Premier show leadership and help these desperate women in Labrador today?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Children, Seniors and Social Development.
J. ABBOTT:
Again, Speaker, thank you for
the opportunity to respond.
The
housing needs of people in Labrador, the women in Labrador, those fleeing
violence are being addressed. We are supporting them wherever and whenever we
can. If there's anybody sleeping on a park bench, that we are not familiar with
because we are providing sufficient shelters in the community to make sure their
needs are addressed. We're providing funding to the Housing Hub. We're providing
funding to the Labrador Inn. We're providing funding to Libra House and we're
also providing funding for housing units in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
Not to
say that we can't be doing more, and we are working on that as we speak.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Official Opposition.
D. BRAZIL:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Again, I
reiterate, what you're doing is welcome, but it's not enough. We can see the
facts here with the impact it's having on people in Labrador, particularly in
the wintertime. More needs to be done.
Speaker,
the Longshoremen's Protective Union Local 1953 has rejected the latest contract
offer and voted 100 per cent in favour of strike action. This threatens to
cripple supply chains including food and medication that arrives via Oceanex.
We all
recall the labour dispute at the St. John's airport last month that shut it down
for the first time in our history. Is the Premier going to take action or sit
back and monitor the situation again?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Environment, Climate Change and Labour.
B. DAVIS:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I
thank the hon. Member for the question.
As in
any labour dispute, we have conciliation officers available to come to the table
to support. We understand that both parties have to get back to the table. We
encourage that to take place. In addition to that, those services of
conciliation officers are available to them. We encourage them to do that. The
best deal is always a negotiated deal and that's what we're hopeful for here.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Official Opposition.
D. BRAZIL:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
As we
saw with the airport dispute, the Premier and the federal minister sat back and
we had an actual impact financially on the province here with conferences being
cancelled, sporting events being cancelled and a number of other important
things that were lost here to the people of this province. While, yes,
conciliation and mediation are very important, but the leadership means this
could be offered by the province now. Anything to get the two sides back at the
table.
Speaker,
we understand the Marine Base that supports offshore supply vessels will also be
impacted. These supply vessels play a critical role in supply and safety for our
offshore installations.
Again,
the Premier and Minister O'Regan's approach at the airport was to sit back until
it shut down. What is the Premier going to do this time?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Environment, Climate Change and Labour.
B. DAVIS:
Mr. Speaker, thank you for
the question.
We're
not sitting back and waiting. Obviously, we encourage our federal counterparts –
the federal Minister of Labour is responsible, in this case, but we always come
to the table with what we can do to support our workers and our unions to come
to the table and get back to bargaining. That's what we want to see.
Obviously, it's not in our purview from a provincial standpoint but we do
encourage the federal Labour minister as well as our colleagues. We're available
to chat. We're available to work with them and we're always there to support.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Stephenville - Port au Port.
T. WAKEHAM:
Speaker,
it was discouraging yesterday to hear the Minister of Finance say that she
couldn't do anything about the taxes that she collects on gasoline, or is it the
fact that she just doesn't want to do anything.
I ask
the minister: Which is it?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Finance and President of Treasury Board.
S. COADY:
Speaker, let me tell you what
is discouraging, is when people misinformed or they're misinforming the people
of this province.
What I
said yesterday is true. The provincial government does not have control over the
HST. It is a Harmonized Sales Tax. I am sure the Member opposite understands
that. Carbon tax is a federal policy. We do have one lever, it's called the
provincial gas tax, but in fairness we also have an agreement with the federal
government around carbon tax. They will not impose carbon tax on home heat fuel
if we ensure the provincial gas tax stays as it is.
I'm
going to ask the Member opposite: Do you want to have carbon tax on home heat?
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Stephenville - Port au Port.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
The hon.
the Member for Stephenville - Port au Port.
T. WAKEHAM:
Mr. Speaker, it appears the
Minister of Finance has no control over taxes in this province. If it is not
her, who is it? That's what I'd like to know.
Yesterday I asked the minister if she would write her federal counterpart to
actually reduce or remove the carbon tax for a period of time while people
suffer through these high prices and she has refused to even answer the
question. New Brunswick has written the federal minister. Why doesn't she?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Premier.
PREMIER A. FUREY:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
I will
address, as it was brought up yesterday as well, that that this is an active,
live conversation amongst premiers across the country and Premier Horgan is
taking action on behalf of the Council of the Federation to ensure that the
federal government understands the pressures of families and the impact that the
carbon tax will have. The point is taken and it has been heard, it has been
heard by us and it has been heard by every premier across the country, Mr.
Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Stephenville - Port au Port.
T. WAKEHAM:
Speaker, it is good to hear
that the Premier is listening and the Premier can take action that apparently
the minister can't. I'm glad to hear that.
The
Province of Alberta has implemented a program that actually sees the gas tax
removed when a barrel of oil is over $90 a barrel. It is a proactive type of
initiative.
So I
ask: Is it possible the Minister of Finance could look at such a program and
actually reduce the gasoline tax while oil remains higher than $90?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Finance and President of Treasury Board.
S. COADY:
Again, either the Member is
misinformed or he is misinforming. I will say to the Member opposite that, yes,
Alberta has lower their gas tax. They also have a $500-million surplus, Speaker.
Too bad we don't have an additional $500 million that we could have had if it
hadn't been for Muskrat Falls.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
S. COADY:
I will say to the Member
opposite again, if we change the provincial gas tax, then we risk the federal
government coming in and imposing carbon tax on home heat fuel. I am sure there
is not one person in this province who would like to have carbon tax on their
home heat. Forty-eight per cent of this province relies on oil fuel for their
furnace.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
Before I
acknowledge, there is too much talk across the floor, so I ask people to keep
quiet.
The hon.
the Member for Stephenville - Port au Port.
T. WAKEHAM:
Speaker, the Liberal
government had no trouble controlling the gas tax when they doubled it in 2016,
but now they can't seem to be able to do anything about it.
Yesterday, the minister talked about the Income Supplement and Seniors' Benefit.
That's not a home heat rebate program. A home heat rebate program was
specifically designed to help people who needed that rebate now, actual cash,
anywhere from a hundred dollars to $500. You have the ability right now, with
the additional revenue you've received this year, to do something immediately
before the end of the year.
I again
ask the minister: Will you please implement a home heat rebate program for the
people of the province?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Finance and President of Treasury Board.
S. COADY:
He almost couldn't keep a
straight face on that one, could he?
Mr.
Speaker, I will say again, either misinformed or misinforming, home heat is
included in the Income Supplement and the Seniors' Benefit.
To the
education of the people of the province and especially the Members opposite, let
me tell you what is up in this province. The labour force is up, employment is
up, home sales are up, retail sales are up –
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
S. COADY:
– food services are up, Mr. Speaker. This government is about results, about
respect and about responsibility, not about rhetoric.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Stephenville - Port au Port.
T. WAKEHAM:
Mr. Speaker, she also forgot
to mention that the revenue from taxes is also up. It's about time the people of
Newfoundland and Labrador got a break on the taxes that they pay.
We ask
again: Will the minister take action and help the people of Newfoundland and
Labrador with a home heat rebate program?
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Finance and President of Treasury Board.
S. COADY:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
I will
say that on Tuesday we announced a program that assisted 230,000 Newfoundlanders
and Labradorians.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
S. COADY:
I know the Members opposite
say disparaging words about it but 230,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have
been helped – close to $350 million. That's through the Income Supplement,
through the Seniors' Benefit and through income support. That's real assistance
for those people and it's very important assistance.
We're
only glad on this side of the aisle, as your governing party –
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
Enough;
I need to hear the speaker.
The hon.
the Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board.
S. COADY:
Thank you for your
protection.
As your
government, we're putting resources where we can put resources. I can say to the
people of the province that we're doing everything that we can and we're
prepared to do more.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Cape
St. Francis.
J. WALL:
Thank you, Speaker.
Let me
be clear, from the seniors I've heard from in my district who are cutting their
prescribed medications in half to try to get them to last throughout the month,
we need to do something. We all need to keep that in mind, Mr. Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
J. WALL:
Speaker, Local Service
Districts and unincorporated areas across the province are continuing to reach
out and speak out about the lack of details on the costing in the government's
regionalization plan.
I ask
the minister: Can she please provide a cost-benefit analysis for communities, so
residents can make an informed decision?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Municipal and Provincial Affairs.
K. HOWELL:
Thank you, Speaker, and I
thank the Member for the question.
The
regionalization plan is moving forward. I'm pleased to say that we've had
conversations with the Local Service Districts. We received a report earlier
this year with a bulk of information that will be used as we move forward with a
plan that's reasonable for the people of the Province of Newfoundland and
Labrador.
Over the
past few months, I've had the opportunity to sit with representatives from 50
Local Service Districts. From Placentia - St. Mary's, from the St. Barbe -
L'Anse aux Meadows District, from Boyd's Cove, New Harbour, Hopeall, Eddie's
Cove East, St. David's, O'Regan's Central, Black Duck Siding: all of these
communities have had opportunity to have their input and their say on how we
shape regional government for the people of the Province of Newfoundland and
Labrador.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Cape
St. Francis.
J. WALL:
Thank you, Speaker.
I do
look forward to the cost analysis when it's ready. I encourage you to continue
to speak to Local Service Districts. There are many throughout the province who
are still asking questions.
The new
provincial property tax was recommended by the Premier's Greene report. I ask
the minister: Can she table the analysis that supports that conclusion?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Municipal and Provincial Affairs.
K. HOWELL:
Thank you, Speaker, for the
question.
Right
now, at this point, these are conversations that are ongoing within the
government. As we move forward with plans that transform and shape how we do
business in this province, there are key portions of that conversation.
As time
moves on and more information becomes available, it's certainly the intention of
this government to always be transparent and put those things forward, so that
people have an opportunity to understand what it is we're doing to benefit the
residents of Newfoundland and Labrador.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Cape
St. Francis.
J. WALL:
Thank you, Speaker.
Many of
these communities already have their own water and sewer service. Garbage
service and fire protection are contracted.
What new
services will these residents receive at what cost, as a result of the new
provincial tax?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Municipal and Provincial Affairs.
K. HOWELL:
Thank you, Speaker, and I
thank you for the question.
As I
mentioned, we're still very much in the process of determining what services
will work for what areas of our province. As the Member mentioned, there are
communities that are doing a really good job with managing the services that
they're responsible for.
But we
also recognize that there are communities that are struggling. They're reaching
out for help and they have needs that are above their capacity to take care of.
As we're faced with challenges of democracy, having open councils that don't
have anybody on their seats, or challenges of demographics where people are
aging out and a 70-year-old man is down in a ditch with an ice pick trying to
get a waterline open, those are things that have to come up in conversation as
we move forward, and figure out what it is that each service district needs.
We're going to implement a plan that is responsible for each area, and certainly
it is not a one size fits all.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Cape
St. Francis.
J. WALL:
Thank you, Speaker.
We all
remember the public outcry when government tried to impose the regional garbage
collection on cabin owners.
Will
these same cabin owners, along with seasonal residence owners and possibly
vacant land, be now subject to that provincial tax?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Municipal and Provincial Affairs.
K. HOWELL:
Thank you, Speaker.
The plan
for regionalization is widespread across this province. As I've been having
conversations throughout the communities, that is part of the discussion that
has come up. We're still very much working on a plan as we work through the
report that has been received from the working group. When those decisions are
made, they'll certainly be made public.
But I
think the important point that we want to acknowledge here is that there is so
much space and so much land in this province that each area will have to be
treated very differently. What's going to work on the Northeast Avalon certainly
won't work on the Northern Peninsula. All of these things have to be considered,
and when we make a plan we want it to be specific to each region so that it fits
the needs of the people that are represented there.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Exploits.
P. FORSEY:
Thank you, Speaker.
Speaker,
despite a track record of failing to act on important issues facing our
province, the Premier was quick to act in hiring two Liberal friends to his new
office in Grand Falls-Windsor. When low-income workers need support, the Premier
can't do anything; yet, when his political friends need jobs, he can step right
up.
I ask
the Premier: Why do you prioritize your political friends over everyday
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians?
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Premier.
PREMIER A. FUREY:
I'm certainly happy to
address this question.
The
people of Central Newfoundland are incredibly important, we all appreciate that
and I think that they need a voice direct to the Premier's office, Mr. Speaker.
We have one –
AN HON. MEMBER:
(Inaudible.)
PREMIER A. FUREY:
No, we don't.
We have
an office on the West Coast, traditionally. We have an office on the East Coast.
We have a full Department of Labrador Affairs. It's important that the people of
Central Newfoundland have a voice to the Premier's office.
The
people I've talked to in Central Newfoundland including mayors and deputy
mayors, all have been incredibly supportive of this initiative because they now
know that their strong voice will be heard and listened to.
With
respect to hirings, Mr. Speaker. I look across and I see a great combination
that existed before of a former minister and an executive assistant that was a
failed candidate. I think it's failing on deaf ears, Mr. Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Exploits.
P. FORSEY:
It's unfortunate the
Premier's office won't talk to us. We have to take our voices here to the House
of Assembly for him to listen to us.
The
Premier was quick to spend $250,000 to reward political friends in Central
Newfoundland with political positions; yet, a single parent in my district is
left to wonder with the recent announcements –
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
P. FORSEY:
– how an extra $65 a year
will help put food on her table. That's less than a dozen eggs per month.
I ask
the Premier: Why are you choosing to put more money in the pockets of political
friends rather than in the pockets of single parents?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Premier.
PREMIER A. FUREY:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
This is
a direct investment in the people of Central Newfoundland, Mr. Speaker. I would
assume that the Member opposite –
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
PREMIER A. FUREY:
– would know the difference.
We had a
great announcement today in Central Newfoundland, and you can plan to hear many
more because of that office, Mr. Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Grand
Falls-Windsor - Buchans.
C. TIBBS:
Thank you, Speaker.
I have
people in my district who have to stay in bed from midnight until 8 a.m. because
their home hours are cut, and as much as we ask for them, the money isn't there.
But the money's there to line your buddies' pockets. Are you kidding me?
Leadership, fiscal responsibility, find the people in Grand Falls-Windsor a
doctor with the money you're going to use for your office out there. That would
be much better, wouldn't it? A way better plan to spend money.
Speaker,
the lack of long-term –
S. COADY:
Disrespectful.
C. TIBBS:
Excuse me?
S. COADY:
Disrespectful.
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
C. TIBBS:
Absolutely disrespectful. I
couldn't agree more.
SPEAKER:
Move on to your question,
please.
C. TIBBS:
Speaker, the lack of
long-term care beds is overcrowding our acute care beds in hospitals and this is
having a devastating impact on our seniors. The longer seniors await acute care
beds, the more their health will decline.
Simple
question: When will our long-term care centres open in Grand Falls-Windsor and
in Gander, which people are waiting on for so long?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Transportation and Infrastructure.
E. LOVELESS:
Thank you, Speaker.
I want
to begin, too, to use the Finance Minister's words, as the Member across the way
is misinformed or misinforming and I back up my statement by saying because he
did some interviews to say that there was additional costs to the delay in the
opening of the long-term care.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
E. LOVELESS:
If you give me the
opportunity, I listened to his question, you listen to me answer.
So there
is no additional cost to the taxpayers of this province. When it's going to
open: we're happy to say that we're working with Central Health and the planned
time is in April.
But I
must add, instead of talking doom and gloom, which the Member has earned his
title, let's talk about the benefits: 120 new beds for the families and the
seniors in Central Newfoundland and Labrador.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
E. LOVELESS:
And since 2020, we've had 285
new beds.
SPEAKER:
The minister's time is
expired.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Ferryland.
L. O'DRISCOLL:
Well, hopefully, they can get
in them soon. That's the answer, that's what he's trying to get.
Speaker,
just two weeks ago, I heard a story from a family in Cape Broyle who waited 1½
hours for an ambulance, when they could see two ambulances sitting at idle at a
rental property through their kitchen window.
I ask
the minister: When are you going to step in and improve ambulance services in
the District of Ferryland?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you very much, Mr.
Speaker.
I think
I would refer the Member opposite to Dr. Parfrey and Sister Elizabeth's Health
Accord document, which states quite clearly that an integrated, coordinated
ground and air ambulance system is crucial to transforming the health care of
this province. I look forward to their implementation document next month and we
are ready in the department to move rapidly to address the recommendations that
they came forward with.
There
are mutual aid agreements for the private operators and a lot of these operators
have stepped up, despite significant staffing challenges as crews went down with
COVID. As the pandemic winds down, this will hopefully ease.
The
ambulance service is a priority for all of us, Speaker.
Thank
you.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Ferryland.
L. O'DRISCOLL:
Well, if we had an extra
$250,000 we could get a couple of paramedics, I guess.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
L. O'DRISCOLL:
Speaker, we have ambulances
that are not shovelled out and covered in snow. When these ambulances are
available, they are under staffed. You took an ambulance out of Trepassey and
placed it in Cape Broyle.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
L. O'DRISCOLL:
Meanwhile this ambulance sits
in Cape Broyle covered in snow.
I ask
the minister: Will you restore the second ambulance in Trepassey, yes or no?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you very much, Speaker.
Hard to
know where to start to rebut some of that. I have not had my go yet. How about
$500 million every year in perpetuity.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you to some decisions
made without any due diligence.
Due
diligence has been done on this, Mr. Speaker. The population shifts in that area
warrant the changes that were recommended by the operator on the ground and I
support them.
Thank
you.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Third Party.
J. DINN:
Thank you, Speaker.
Speaker,
today government announced its decision to set-up a Ukrainian Family Support
Desk in Poland. Yesterday, I asked about the resources and supports available to
refugee families – I was unenlightened by it.
In
October 2021, the Minister of Education was unable to provide clarity about the
extra EAL supports that would be provided to schools accepting children of
Afghan refugees.
So I am
asking the Minister of Education if he would care to elaborate on government's
plan to provide additional teaching, EAL and counselling resources to schools
where the children of these families will attend.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Education.
T. OSBORNE:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Speaker,
it's nice to see the Member ask a question on education. It's also nice to be
able to inform him we don't have to react to the question, Mr. Speaker; we've
been proactive. As a result of the additional Afghan students in our schools and
some of the additional pressures, we've added 30 teaching units to help with
that.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
T. OSBORNE:
There are English as a Second
Language resources available. There's the LEARN program sessions that were held
to welcome our Afghan students into our schools, Mr. Speaker. There are IRT,
instructional resource teachers. We also have the 30 full-time equivalent
student assistant positions for our schools, Mr. Speaker. We have put resources
in place.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Third Party.
J. DINN:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
I'll be
looking for the specific details to verify that. I thank you for your answer.
Speaker,
affordable and stable housing is already an issue for many Newfoundlanders and
Labradorians. Would the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development or
the Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills be able to provide
details on how housing supports will be provided to these refugee families?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.
G. BYRNE:
Thank you very much, Mr.
Speaker.
May I
say to the hon. Member, your enthusiasm and your support for the Newfoundland
and Labrador initiative in not only here with the Ukrainian desk but now on the
ground in Warsaw, Poland is really, really uplifting. We really appreciate your
effusive support that you have offered.
With
that said, I would like to say when it comes to the Afghan refugees that came to
Newfoundland and Labrador, all are now within housing and we will make sure, Mr.
Speaker, that all refugees are treated with respect, generosity and with love.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Labrador West.
J. BROWN:
Thank you, Speaker.
I thank
the Minister of Health for a letter to me regarding the senior in long-term care
in Labrador West who was slated to be separated from her spouse and moved over
700 kilometres away from her community and her spouse because of the requirement
for protective care. The minister has indicated that they are waiting for
solutions from the Health Accord. That will take about 10 years.
I ask
the minister: Will the seniors and others in the situation in Labrador West have
to be shuffled around for a decade while we wait for solutions?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you very much, Speaker.
Some of
the challenges we have in long-term care relate to beds and levels of care. The
prime concern –
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Oh, oh!
SPEAKER:
Order, please!
J. HAGGIE:
– that we have to have for
the individual is for their well-being and safety. Unfortunately, protective
care services are such that we don't have them easily available everywhere. The
important thing in this situation is that people are looked after safely and
with the level of care they need.
I
appreciate it causes problems in long-term care. I would, however, point out
that in personal care homes, for example, we have a spousal reunification
program and are prepared to subsidize healthy spouses in personal care homes if
their spouse needs that level of care.
Thank
you Speaker.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Labrador West.
J. BROWN:
Thank you, Speaker.
We have
a critical shortage of teachers in Labrador West. Teachers cannot take jobs in
the region due to a housing shortage. Students are falling behind on allocated
instructional resource teacher time and it's inadequate. The middle school has
been without a guidance counsellor for over a year.
I ask
the minister: What is he doing to address these deficiencies and what are you
going to do about the 1,500 students in Labrador West who are understaffed in
teaching?
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Education.
T. OSBORNE:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I
thank the Member for his question.
There
are some pressures, no doubt, Mr. Speaker, throughout the province. Part of that
is due to the pandemic, obviously, and the isolation requirements of the
pandemic. In terms of the teaching resources, Mr. Speaker, we've added a number
of teaching resources. Over the last three years, we've added about 380 teaching
resources in this province. We've also got our substitute teachers, where we've
reached out to Memorial University to supply us with additional. We've made
changes to the retirement policies to allow retired educators to come and assist
as well.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The time for Question Period
has expired.
Presenting Reports by Standing and Select Committees.
Tabling
of Documents.
Tabling of
Documents
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Environment and Climate Change.
B. DAVIS:
Mr. Speaker, in accordance
with the Transparency and Accountability
Act, it is my pleasure to table today the 2021-2023 Strategic Plan for the
Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Thank
you very much, Mr. Speaker.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Industry, Energy and Technology.
A. PARSONS: Thank you, Speaker.
I hereby
table the 2021-2023 Activity Plan for the
Muskrat Falls Project Land Use and Expropriation - Arbitration Panel.
Thank
you.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Children, Seniors and Social Development.
J. ABBOTT:
Speaker, likewise, I am
pleased to rise to table our 2021-2023 Department of Children, Seniors and
Social Development Strategic Plan. This plan is being tabled in accordance with
section 5 of the Transparency and
Accountability Act.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.
G. BYRNE:
Mr. Speaker, today I table
the Immigration, Population Growth and
Skills Strategic Plan 2021-2023 in accordance with the provisions of the
Transparency and Accountability Act.
SPEAKER:
Any further tabling of
documents?
The hon.
the Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs.
K. HOWELL:
Thank you, Speaker.
In
accordance with subsections 5(1) and (7) of the
Transparency and Accountability Act, I hereby table the 2020-2023
Strategic Plan for the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs.
SPEAKER:
Further tabling of documents?
Notices
of Motion.
Answers
to Questions for which Notice has been Given.
Petitions.
Petitions
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Exploits.
P. FORSEY:
Speaker, the residents of
Exploits have a great concern from the result of the 24-hour emergency service
cut to the Dr. Hugh Twomey Health Care Centre in Botwood. All resident feel that
the 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. service does not adequately or efficiently address the
requirements of this district, affecting both patients and residents to receive
adequate care when needed.
We, the
undersigned, call upon the House of Assembly to urge the Government of
Newfoundland and Labrador to restore the 24-hour emergency service at the Dr.
Hugh Twomey Health Care Centre immediately.
Speaker,
this is still an ongoing story. Back in 2016, the Liberal government, of course,
stripped the 24-hour emergency service from Botwood. In 2019, they promised to
reinstate it after the 2019 election. We went past the 2021 election, where
there was another promise to reinstate the 24-hour emergency service. Actually,
now that the Liberal candidate who promised it has been gracefully appointed to
the new office in Grand Falls-Windsor, at that time the candidate said in the
election: I've been told by the Premier that this is a cost-neutral savings and
would be restored in the spring of 2021.
I know
probably the minister is going to get up – I'd like for the Premier to answer it
because the Premier gave him direction to say it anyway. Again, another promise.
Before the minister gets up and says this is left to the RHAs and the CEOs; they
didn't promise it. The regional health authority didn't promise it.
Before
he gets up says the Health Accord is reviewing all this and coming back, the
Health Accord didn't promise it. The Liberal government promised it. The
residents of the Exploits District need the 24-hour emergency service as
promised. Minister, give them an answer.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Placentia West - Bellevue.
J. DWYER:
Thank you, Speaker.
I guess
the minister didn't hear the last petition; he's staying in his spot.
These
are the reasons for this petition or the background of this petition is as
follows: The rising cost of fuel is having a dramatic effect on the
transportation industry 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: To urge the
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to consider a fuel rebate for the
transportation industry so that they can continue to supply those essential
services to many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that depend on it each day.
The
thing is, the reason why I think this petition is so important, especially to
the Minister of Finance, is that these are the very people that kept our economy
going during COVID. We applauded, we thanked them and we showed them that they
were resilient in the face of adversity and that we really appreciated what they
were doing for our economy.
It's our
time now to really help them out or let them know that we're going to look into
something like this for them. I know that I have a bill from an independent
truck driver. In April of last year, he paid $2,078, Speaker, to fill his truck
to do his rounds. Just this past January 24, he paid $3,948, so we're talking
about almost a doubling. Like I said, it's very impactful because they're having
to work on lower margins because this comes off their bottom lines.
I think
it's incumbent on us here at the House of Assembly to show the respect now that
we were so appreciative of that they showed us in the first place.
Thank
you.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Finance and President of Treasury Board for a response.
S. COADY:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
I've
heard the MHA for Placentia - Bellevue. This is the second time, I think, that
he presented that petition.
We, on
all sides of the House, do recognize the tremendous efforts of the
transportation industry and the impacts on the economy. I will say that I heard
his petition. I know the transportation industry is really impacted by global
events. We'll certainly take it under advisement, if there's anything that we
can do assist.
Thank
you.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Harbour Main.
H. CONWAY OTTENHEIMER:
Thank you, Speaker.
The
background to this petition is as follows:
WHEREAS
individual residents and municipal leaders have spoken to the deplorable road
conditions in the District of Harbour Main; and
WHEREAS
the district is made up of many smaller communities and towns, like Holyrood,
Upper Gullies, Seal Cove, Cupids, Colliers, South River, North River, Roaches
Line and Makinsons who have roads in desperate need of repair and repaving; and
WHEREAS
these roads see high-volume traffic flows every day and drivers can expect
potholes, severe rutting, limited shoulders and many washed-out areas along the
way;
THEREFORE we petition the hon. House of Assembly as follows: We, the
undersigned, call upon the House of Assembly to urge the Government of
Newfoundland and Labrador to immediately take the necessary steps to repair and
repave these important roadways to ensure the safety of the driving public who
use them on a regular basis.
Speaker,
I've raised this petition a number of times in the House of Assembly. I will
continue to do this because this is a serious issue, one of the biggest issues
in the District of Harbour Main. Not only am I getting calls from individuals
throughout the district, they are calling in, the calls are overwhelming, in
fact, and constituents have every right to be concerned and angry. They are in
fear often for their safety because they have to divert themselves off the road
at times to avoid the potholes. The conditions of the roads are really bad.
But not
only do we have individuals, just in the last two weeks, Speaker, I have
received a letter from the councils in North River, South River, Colliers and
CBS imploring the minister to do something about these roads. In fact, they have
indicated, for example, that the roads in Colliers are deplorable and they've
been unsuccessful in receiving any assistance from government on this.
They are
asking that there be attention given to the highways. The Holyrood council, in
fact, said they have made requests for attention to the conditions of the
highway and they have not been satisfactorily addressed by government.
South
River, the roads are terrible as well.
The
minister – I thank him for coming out. He took a road trip with myself in the
last year just to see first-hand. We appreciate that, but we need to see action.
I mean, this is not only just people damaging their vehicles, but it's also a
safety issue.
When we
look at the roads, for example, in North River, for years past and present
council of North River have been lobbying the Department of Transportation and
Infrastructure regarding the deplorable conditions. They state that in their
letter. Speaker, we need to see action. We need for this government to do that.
Roaches
Line as well, you drove over Roaches Line, these roads are in need of repaving.
Please, Speaker, I implore the minister to do something with this, please.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Transportation and Infrastructure.
E. LOVELESS:
Thank you.
To the
Member opposite, I appreciate she acknowledged that I did go to her district and
travel the roads.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
E LOVELESS:
But did not appreciate that
your colleague next to you said the department is probably handling the worst
conditions there's ever been since I've been leader or I've been minister of the
department. I didn't appreciate that but that's all the same. You can have that
conversation with him. In terms of the challenges around the roads, I've heard
it. I've driven, yes, the hon. Member's roads – many roads – and I get it from
all sides.
My hon.
colleague here has three gravel roads in his district. So not to diminish the
importance of your roads, but there are lot of roads in this province. But just
to try to stress the importance and the challenge around what budget I have
versus what I can do. I appreciate the petition and I will take it under
advisement.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Leader of the
Third Party.
J. DINN:
Thank you, Speaker.
I am
presenting a petition to fund continuous glucose monitors, flash glucose
monitors and insulin pumps for all people living with Type 1 diabetes. The
undersigned are calling on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to take
immediate action to help patients living with Type 1 diabetes achieve better
health outcomes and quality of life by funding access to continuous and flash
glucose monitors, and to remove the financial means test for insulin pumps.
Speaker,
the reasons: Managing blood sugar is vital with Type 1 diabetes. If neglected,
it can lead to dangerous and expensive complications including acute
hospitalizations; nerve damage causing pain and then requiring amputations; and
various forms of damage to the cardiovascular system, eyes, kidneys and joints.
On the surface, it certainly seems to be a cost, but in the end, the benefit is
going to pay off because you're looking at a device that's more preventative.
If we
look at the Health Accord and about the social determinants of health, it's
about making sure that all people have access to the most current technology and
the most reliable technology that will help them monitor their blood sugars on a
minute-by -minute, hour-by-hour basis and to prevent the outcomes that could
result in more expensive visits to the hospital.
As a
note, the constant monitoring of continuous glucose monitors and flash glucose
monitors allows for individuals and caretakers to make early interventions and
informed decisions throughout the day about how they should balance their food,
physical activity, medicine and sleep. The currently funded glucose monitoring
method involves finger pricking, provides no more than seven readings a day –
not as accurate. It's painful. It can be a problem for those who do it and it
doesn't allow for the user to evaluate blood glucose trends in real time.
This
seems to be another simple fix. An investment to fix a long-term problem and
which is going to have long-term savings, if we're looking at cost savings to
our health system, and making sure that people are more productive, healthier
and are able to stay at their jobs and enjoy a decent quality of life.
Thank
you, Speaker.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
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, Order 4, second reading of Bill 28.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you very much, Speaker.
I move,
seconded by the Deputy Government House Leader, that Bill 28, An Act To Amend
Various Acts Of The Province Respecting The Publication Of A Summary Of A
Decision Or Order Of An Adjudication Tribunal, be now read a second time.
SPEAKER:
It is moved and seconded that
Bill 28, An Act To Amend Various Acts Of The Province Respecting The Publication
Of A Summary Of A Decision Or Order Of An Adjudication Tribunal be now read a
second time.
Motion,
second reading of a bill, “An Act To Amend Various Acts Of The Province
Respecting The Publication Of A Summary Of A Decision Or Order Of An
Adjudication Tribunal.” (Bill 28)
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you very much, Mr.
Speaker.
It's a
wonderful title for this bill and there's quite a bulk to it, but in actual
fact, it's really quite simple. Essentially, we have 17 health professions'
statutes that govern the various bodies. What this bill is trying to do – and
succeeds I would argue – is that it aligns the acts with respect to access,
notification and retention of the decisions of tribunals and any orders they may
issue.
These 17
regulatory authorities actually govern 23 separate health professions. They're
mandated to protect the public. As part of that role, they manage a disciplinary
process to deal with allegations where a health professional may have engaged in
conduct deserving of sanction. Such conduct would include: misconduct,
professional misconduct, professional incompetence, conduct unbecoming and
incapacity, or unfitness to practice.
The
governing statutes by and large have the same disciplinary process and
provisions. Once an allegation is made, there are a number of options. It can be
a mutual resolution, an alternate dispute resolution. It can go to an
investigation. It can go to a tribunal for a disciplinary hearing. These
allegations need a thorough hearing. We do not have any intent and there's
nothing in this bill that interferes with that process.
Where a
health professional, however, pleads guilty, or is found guilty at the end of a
hearing, a tribunal has the ability to make certain types of decisions or
orders. Those can be remedial measures about education, medical treatment,
counselling. They can also suspend a person's licence or place conditions on a
licence or actually revoke completely.
The
current 17 health statutes require a regulatory body to publish a summary in a
newspaper of general circulation in the community nearest to where the
professional practice is. This publication is mandatory. There's a list of
information that has to be included in it: the health professional's name, the
address of the practice, brief description of the conduct and the complainant's
name, unless the complainant has asked to have it withheld.
These
are significant decisions. Publication is meant to allow the public to make
informed decisions over who and where they seek health care services, so these
need to be available more generally. The current requirement is to publish in a
newspaper, but as we all know, print newspaper are kind of a rare beast now and
really are only probably available in limited areas across the province.
What
we're trying to do with this – according to my speaking notes it says update and
modernize. I would argue we're actually dragging it into the 20th century.
Publication of the decisions is an important policy decision. We're not
achieving it with the means that we have in statutes at the moment.
So while
this amendment continues with the stipulation that it be published, the bill now
requires the publication of a summary on either the regulatory authority's
website, or where they don't have one, they can publish it on the Department of
Health and Community Service's website. There are a small number of regulators
in this province who don't have a site of their own,
The bill
requires publication on the website for at least three months or longer, where
the suspension lasts longer than three months. It requires notification of the
publication to be provided to at least two media outlets in or near where the
health professional practice is, so the public have the ability to be made aware
of it and the content of the summary is clarified.
The bill
stipulates that it'll include the name of the complainant; however, only where
the complainant has requested it be published. It flips it to an opt-in rather
than an opt-out. That is to protect, by default, more fully the privacy of the
complainant.
In
keeping with current practices, Bill 28 enables the publication of the full
decision or order. It stipulates also that the sharing of information in this
manner provide a learning experience to other professionals. So if the
professional has fallen afoul of the disciplinary process or the professional
standards process, others can learn from where their mistakes are. A feature
that's common, for example, in another field of endeavour with which I'm
familiar with, which is aviation.
It also
permits the publication in a database or a repository as approved by a minister;
for example, the Canadian legal Information database, which is free and contains
thousands of decisions of tribunals and courts. It also includes the Labour
Relations and Human Rights Commission. It also includes, currently, the College
of Physicians and Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador. So we're proposing to
bring everybody onto the same playing field.
The
initial focus was around the manner of communication, but in actual fact, there
are also a number of inconsistencies between different regulatory authorities.
So what we've done is we've gone back to the health regulators to address each
of these inconsistencies. Those are also aligned in terms of duration and
content and these kinds of things.
There's
also a requirement now about retention of records. A copy of the decision has to
be retained by the regulator for 10 years. It has to be accessible in a way that
allows anybody who's interested to go back and review that. It aligns all 17
statutes and requires the publication on either their website or Health and
Community Services within 14 days from the expiry of the appeal period after the
decision.
In
addition to those who must be notified, Bill 28 also grants discretion to
regulatory authorities to notify other persons of the decision where that might
be appropriate.
This
House in the fall adopted amendments to the
Law Society Act. These amendments are
consistent with the direction the House took on that particular process.
To draw
to a conclusion, this was done in consultation with the regulatory authorities;
they're very supportive of these amendments. Their feedback was very important
in the crafting of this legislation. It's open, it's transparent, it's modern
and it sets a bar for any future professions that may wish to adopt
self-regulation.
Importantly, and perhaps most of all, it allows the public to have knowledge of
these incidents, these issues and to make informed decisions. It helps them have
confidence that their health care professional is meeting standards and enhances
that level of confidence.
With
that, Speaker, I would encourage Members of the House to support this bill. I
look forward to their comments now and a discussion in Committee.
I'll
take my seat. Thank you.
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Topsail - Paradise.
P. DINN:
Thank you, Speaker.
The name
of this bill, of course, is pretty daunting but, again, it's a pretty
straightforward bill. It's a little bit more than just housekeeping. We do have
bills that clean up acts and such, but this is more than housekeeping. It's very
important.
As the
minister noted, this proposed bill will amend 17 health professional acts. I
just want to read the acts here, just so people will get an understanding of
what we're talking about here. The 17 acts that it's going to amend are: the
Chiropractors Act, 2009; the
Dental Act, 2008; the
Denturist Act, 2005; the
Dieticians Act;
Dispensing Opticians Act, 2005;
Health Professions Act;
Hearing Aid Practitioners Act;
Licensed Practical Nurses Act, 2005;
Massage Therapy Act, 2005;
Medical Act, 2011;
Occupational Therapist Act, 2005;
Optometry Act, 2012;
Pharmacy Act, 2012;
Physiotherapy Act, 2006;
Psychologists Act, 2005; Registered
Nurses Act, 2008; and the Social
Workers Act. Of course, what's quite obvious is they're all health related,
as we already know. So a very important bill here.
This
bill is bringing consistency to the publication of decisions of adjudication
boards. Decisions generally consist of professional misconduct complaints, and
other complaints originated by the employer, the public or a self-employed
individual.
Currently, there are a variety of ways in which a professional association is
required to publish decisions that meet a certain threshold such as a suspension
or a forced surrendering of a licence. Bill 28 brings uniformity to the
publication requiring the following: “… (a) publish the summary of the decision
or order on the board's website; or (b) where the board does not have a website,
provide the summary or order to the Department of Health and Community Services
for publication on its website.”
It's
important to note that certain decisions will not meet that threshold so they
won't be published publicly, but the key here is this is talking about
misconduct and that, and it provides very important information to the public.
In
addition to those points that I've noted, where the registrar of a specific
public or professional association publishes a decision, the registrar must
inform at least two media outlets in or nearest to the community in which the
respondent practices.
As the
minister alluded to, I think he said dragging it into the 21st Century. I think
he's very much correct there. I think the current acts require publication in
newspapers and we know that the media has come a long way since newspapers. The
key here is making sure that the information is put out there so the public can
make informed decisions.
I also
look at the point here, as I said earlier and listed all the acts, it's all
health acts we're talking about; a very important issue for many. When you're
looking for some service or looking for a health care professional to help you,
this will at least outline to you those that may not be the most appropriate to
go to, for the lack of a better word.
It's all
there to protect the public and get the information out there. It's certainly
not there to punish anyone, but it's there to get the open and transparent
information that informed decisions can be made, especially when it comes to an
individual's health.
We
certainly will have no issue in supporting this bill.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for
Torngat Mountains.
L. EVANS:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
We
support these amendments as well, so I'm not going to dwell on that.
This
bill really updates the obligation by regulatory bodies and health professionals
to publish decisions arising from hearings for misconduct allegations by their
members. What's important here is about public trust, about communication and
about protecting the rights of the professionals as well. So this is very, very
important.
Currently, there are 23 health professional bodies in this province that are
regulated by 17 statutes. This bill is important because it updates the
mandatory procedures of these bodies when they conduct adjudications in cases
regarding misconduct allegations against one of their members. Being relevant
and updated is very important, and standardizing as well. This bill also
standardizes the procedures and makes them uniform throughout all 17 acts and
the 23 bodies.
Specifically, these changes in the amendments deal with the order-making powers
of the tribunals for each professional body and their duty to report on the
results of the adjudications. Currently, the tribunals do have the power to
suspend the licence of a professional governed by their statutes, so it's very,
very important. The rights of the professional must be protected, but also the
rights of the public to access the communication is equally important. They can
also force a person found guilty of violating the statutes to surrender their
licence or put restrictions on the ability of that person to practice.
Moving
on, with these amendments, there's an obligation for professional bodies to
publish a summary of their decisions and the orders in these cases on their
website. If the body doesn't have a website, the decision will be published on
the website of the Department of Health and Community Services. As my fellow MHA
for Paradise said, it's about making sure we communicate in a way that is
relevant with modern-day society.
The
obligation to publish a decision in a newspaper is outdated. That was one of the
things that were brought forward. A lot of areas in the province now don't
actually have a current area newspaper. So now, the registrar must advise at
least two media outlets in the nearest community which the correspondent
practices, allowing for a broader dissemination of the findings.
That's
about making sure the public are updated and aware of the findings of the
tribunals. I think what really was of interest to me is these amendments were a
result of a number of professional bodies reaching out to government and asking
for certain updates to the publication provisions in the act and governing of
the professions.
Like I
said, this is basically housekeeping. It's just making sure the communication is
updated, is modern. It's making sure the procedures are standardized. With us –
AN HON. MEMBER:
(Inaudible.)
L. EVANS:
Yeah, I'm not going to
continue to talk, Mr. Speaker, because we support this bill.
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Hear, hear!
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Member for Mount
Pearl - Southlands.
P. LANE:
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
I'm just
going to take a minute or so just for the record, for
Hansard, to say that I'll be supporting this bill as well. I'm not
going to get into all the details. I had the briefing with the minister's
department; thought it was a very good briefing. I certainly thank the staff for
providing it.
At the
end of the day, what this comes down to is that as citizens, when we have health
issues, we depend on health professionals. Whether they be physicians or
optometrists, or pharmacists or whatever the case might be, we depend on them to
provide us health care, to utilize their expertise and to do so in a way that is
professional and that's ethical.
Like any
profession, these professions in health care being no different than any other
profession, from time to time there are going to be situations where people make
poor judgments. Perhaps there could be some (inaudible) to creep in and
sometimes there are ethical issues that arise. As the expression goes, there's
always a bad apple or two in every barrel. That can happen in every profession,
including health care. When that happens, of course, there have to be mechanisms
put in place to protect not just the public, but also the profession itself.
I would
say that all of these health care professions welcome these changes because they
want to ensure the integrity of their organization, the integrity of their
craft, if you will. I'm sure there's not a doctor out there, a nurse out there,
an optometrist out there that doesn't want to have these stringent rules in
place, these guidelines in place and to have mechanisms to ensure that anybody
who qualifies to be part of their group are operating in a very professional and
ethical manner.
Therefore, there are organizations set around all these groups; they have
governing bodies, if you will. They lay down the standards and so on for these
governing bodies. Part of that, of course, is that if there is a concern that is
brought to the attention of the governing body, whether it be by a colleague,
whether it be by a patient or whatever the case might be, then there has to be a
mechanism in place to be able to investigate those allegation. If those
allegations are found to be accurate and legit and so on and there was any kind
of wrongdoing or unethical behaviour that occurred, then these individuals have
to be sanctioned.
Sanctioning of the individuals can go from, as some would say, a slap on the
wrist, a warning, to somebody being suspended for a period of time, to someone
actually losing their licence, maybe temporarily, maybe permanently, depending
on what that individual did.
Of
course, this legislation that we're talking about today, the updating of this
legislation, is around this whole idea of when there is an investigation, when
this tribunal takes place for any of those health care fields that have been
mentioned and there's some finding there of legitimacy and there's some
sanction, then it's the duty upon that body to make that information available
to the general public so that the public knows, upfront, that there's a health
care provider of some sort in my community, in my area – maybe I have an
appointment to see that individual, maybe this individual has been recommended,
whatever the case might be, and I have the right to know as a citizen that
before I go to see that individual, that this individual has made whatever that
particular error in judgment or unethical behaviour, so I can make a decision
about my health to say, do I actually want to see this person or not. I may
choose to say I don't want to go to see this doctor, and I'm going to wait and
see a different doctor somewhere else because of what this particular individual
has done. That's everybody's right to know that.
This
legislation basically talks about the fact if there's a sanction, this is going
to be – first of all, it's bringing all these different groups in line in terms
of how this process operates to standardize it, so to speak. There will be some
changes in language in some of these actual pieces of legislation, because not
all of these bodies operate exactly the same way. There's going to be a few
differences but, by and large, it's standardizing it and it's providing for a
mechanism to ensure, based on today's reality and modern reality; the fact that
we don't use newspapers anymore or, for the most part we don't, and making sure
there's mechanisms in place so that people in various communities throughout the
province are made aware if there is any kind of a breach of ethics or so on with
any of the health care providers in there area so they can make that informed
choice whether or not they want to avail of that individual's services.
That's
what this is doing. As it's been said, this is a protection for the public but
it's also a protection for the actual health care providers themselves because
it ensures that everybody that's working within their field, within their scope
are operating in a professional way, in an ethical way. That's, of course, what
these people would obviously want as professionals.
So, as
I've said, I will support it. It's not earth-shattering legislation, so to
speak. Some people have referred to is as housekeeping but it is still important
nonetheless. With all of our legislation, it is important that we continue to
make sure that it is up-to-date, it's modernized, it's standardized and that we
are ensuring that all the protections are in place for the people that we serve.
And that's what this is doing.
So with
that said, I'll take my seat.
Thank
you, Mr. Speaker.
SPEAKER:
Seeing no other speakers, if
the minister speaks now he'll close debate.
The hon.
the Minister of Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Thank you very much, Speaker.
I am
pleased to see the level of support in the House for this piece of legislation.
It's about transparency. It is about clarity. It's about openness. As the Member
for Mount Pearl - Southlands referenced it; I will just mention the briefing.
The
briefing was, in actual fact, the last act to be briefed by the current legal
counsel in the Department of Health and Community Services, Ms. Gerrie Smith who
has served the department extremely well throughout COVID. She was responsible
for the drafting of all of the Special Measures Orders, all 49 of them, as well
as providing yeoman service over the years for a whole raft of legislation
including some of the groundbreaking stuff that we introduced in 2018.
So I
would like to use this opportunity to commend her services to the House and wish
her well when she is pirated away by the Minister of Justice and Public Safety
in the not-too-distant future.
Thank
you.
SPEAKER:
Is the House ready for the
question?
The
motion is that Bill 28 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 (Barnes):
A bill, An Act To Amend
Various Acts Of The Province Respecting The Publication Of A Summary Of A
Decision Or Order Of An Adjudication Tribunal. (Bill 28)
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.
On
motion, a bill, “An Act To Amend Various Acts Of The Province Respecting The
Publication Of A Summary Of A Decision Or Order Of An Adjudication Tribunal,”
read a second time, ordered referred to a Committee of the Whole presently, by
leave. (Bill 28)
SPEAKER:
The hon. the Deputy
Government House Leader.
L. DEMPSTER:
Mr. Speaker, I moved,
seconded by the Minister for Health and Community Services, that the House
resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole to consider Bill 28.
SPEAKER:
It is moved and seconded that
I do now leave the Chair for the House to resolve itself into a Committee of the
Whole.
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.
On
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 28, An Act To Amend Various Acts Of The Province Respecting
The Publication Of A Summary Of A Decision Or Order Of An Adjudication Tribunal.
A bill,
“An Act To Amend Various Acts Of The Province Respecting The Publication Of A
Summary Of A Decision Or Order Of An Adjudication Tribunal.” (Bill 28)
CLERK:
Clause 1.
CHAIR:
Shall clause 1 carry?
The
Chair recognizes the hon. the Member for Topsail - Paradise.
P. DINN:
Thank you, Chair.
I only
have a couple of questions here, and it's just to look at the extent in which
this bill is needed or not needed. I don't want people panicking out there that
we have a lot of individuals who are going to have their licences revoked. But
can we get the number on, approximately, how many decisions are estimated to be
published each year?
CHAIR:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
That's a good question. In
actual fact, it's probably one of the facts I don't actually have at my
fingertips, but I could certainly get the Member opposite a ballpark.
As he
says, it's not a great number, and certainly speaking from my more limited
experience in a previous life around the medical profession, these are few and
far between and tend to be some years after the event. It's a lengthy process,
in the case of physicians, to get to this stage. I don't really have a ballpark.
Certainly, we don't anticipate that this will generate more, if that was the
concern.
There is
no cost to government or the regulators because they're doing this already. This
is just simply the ability to publish those decisions in a forum that is
clearer, more widely accessible and actually allows other members of the
profession to read them more easily and learn from the potential hiccups of
their colleagues
CHAIR:
The hon. the Member for
Topsail - Paradise.
P. DINN:
Thank you, Chair.
So just
related to that – and I thank the minister first for his response – so we may
not have the actual numbers and you're going to get them for me, but in looking
at the past number of years, what has been the trend? Have we seen a trend
upwards or downwards in these cases?
CHAIR:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
We have followed the trend of
other G7 countries in that by and large the population have become a little bit
more litigious in their approach to things and this is often the first stop. It
is the easiest stop from the point of view of the complainant because there is
actually no cost to them. Each of these organizations funds the disciplinary
process out of their existing funds. There is a trend to see increasing numbers.
CHAIR:
The hon. the Member for
Topsail - Paradise.
J. DINN:
Thank you, Chair.
Just to
clarify: Increasing numbers in terms of complaints or increasing numbers of,
I'll say, malpractice?
CHAIR:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
An increase in the number of
complaints, whether or not that is tied distinctly to an increase in the number
of positive findings, again, would be part of a deeper dive. It will vary from
regulated body to regulated body. So it would not be possible for me to say,
well, my experience in medicine is this and then generalize to everybody else.
Certainly, the complaints numbers seem to have risen.
CHAIR:
The hon. the Member for
Topsail - Paradise.
J. DINN:
Thank you.
One last
question. We talked about bringing this into the 21st century in terms of
publication. Do you anticipate that would open the door for more complaints,
which is not always a bad thing, I guess, more accountability? Do you see that
happening here?
CHAIR:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Quite frankly, I don't think
this is going to have any effect one way or another on societal trends or
peoples desire to avail of these complaint mechanisms. This is really about the
backend of it. It is what comes out of the other end and it is only in the case
of positive findings and orders that are made to vary someone's licence.
I don't
see it generating more work, necessarily.
CHAIR:
Any further questions?
The hon.
the Member for Lake Melville.
P. TRIMPER:
Thank you, Chair.
I just
had an overarching question for the minister, if I could. First of all, I
appreciated the opportunity to meet with staff and have a good explanation of
what the contents and rationale for this bill. I did reach out to some of the
professional organizations that I was familiar with or had contacts. They've
been coming back to me here as I've been sitting and endorsing the changes. I
compliment the minister and his staff for doing that.
But I
just had a final thought, as a lowly independent and working with the small team
that I have, I wonder if I missed anything. I just would like to ask the
minister where there any disagreements between some of those 17 professional
associations and the contents of Bill 28?
Thank
you.
CHAIR:
The hon. the Minister of
Health and Community Services.
J. HAGGIE:
Certainly, none in concept.
There may have been an argument over whether it should be three months or 14
days after the appeal period, but this was very much, as I understand it, a
consensus process.
CHAIR:
Shall the motion carry?
All
those in favour, 'aye.'
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Aye.
CHAIR:
All those against, 'nay.'
Carried.
On
motion, clause 1 carried.
CLERK:
Clauses 2 through 52
inclusive.
CHAIR:
Shall clauses 2 through 52
inclusive carry?
All
those in favour, 'aye.'
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Aye.
CHAIR:
All those against, 'nay.'
Carried.
On
motion, clauses 2 through 52 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.
On
motion, enacting clause carried.
CLERK:
An Act To Amend Various Acts
Of The Province Respecting The Publication Of A Summary Of A Decision Or Order
Of An Adjudication Tribunal.
CHAIR:
Shall the title carry?
All
those in favour, 'aye.'
SOME HON. MEMBERS:
Aye.
CHAIR:
All those against, 'nay.'
Carried.
On
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 hon the Deputy Government
House Leader.
L. DEMPSTER:
Chair, I move that the
Committee rise and report Bill 28.
CHAIR:
The motion is that the
Committee rise and report Bill 28.
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.
On
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 28 without amendment.
SPEAKER:
The Chair of the Committee of
the Whole reports that the Committee have considered the matters to them
referred and have directed him to report Bill 28 without amendment.
When
shall the report be received?
S. COADY:
Now.
SPEAKER:
When shall the bill be read a
third time?
S. COADY:
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:
Speaker, I move, seconded by
the Government House Leader, that this House do now adjourn.
SPEAKER:
The motion is that this House
do now adjourn.
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.
This
House do stand adjourned until 1:30 p.m. tomorrow.
On
motion, the House at its rising adjourned until tomorrow, Monday, April 4, 2022,
at 1:30 p.m.