Newfoundland and Labrador is well-known for its beautiful landscapes, arts and culture, well- developed infrastructure, low cost of living supported by progressive social programs, and world-class affordable post-secondary education. Through Budget 2021, we continue building on our pride of people and place to foster safer, more inclusive and diverse communities that draw people from other parts of Canada and the world to come here, settle down and raise a family. 

Population Growth

Our government believes that we are well-positioned to welcome 5,100 newcomers per year by 2026. While working to attract people to move here in record numbers, we will also ensure Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have the skills and supports they need to secure and maintain meaningful employment, right here at home. Budget 2021 includes:

• Primarily federal funding, approximately $230 million is allocated to provide people with the skills to capitalize on new opportunities to meet changing labour demands. This will help increase the participation of underrepresented groups such as women and youth in the provincial workforce.
• More than $2 million over the next two years for a new online application system to make it easier for potential newcomers to Canada to settle in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• $1 million this year and $2 million annualized to attract prospective residents from other parts of Canada and around the world.
• $200,000 to help newcomers adapt to their new home and help build a sense of belonging to the community.

Empowering Strong and Sustainable Municipalities

Healthy, sustainable municipalities are essential building blocks in Newfoundland and Labrador. By supporting municipalities to improve service delivery and their ability to advance such things as new fire halls, parks, playgrounds, and trails, we are contributing to a better quality of life. Budget 2021 allocates:

• Over $147 million for communities to improve infrastructure and enhance services. This includes funding for such programs as the Canada Community-Building Fund (Federal Gas Tax Program), Municipal Operating Grant Program, Special Assistance Grants Program, and the Community Enhancement Employment Program.
• Approximately $70 million over three years for communities that receive multi-year infrastructure funding.
• Approximately $70 million for community infrastructure projects under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
• $7 million under the Municipal Capital Works Program over three years to support projects that prioritize water, wastewater, disaster mitigation, and regional collaboration.
• $471,000 for access to the winter trail network in Labrador.
• $100,000 to support the advocacy work of the Combined Councils of Labrador.

Inclusive and Accessible Communities

Creating inclusive, accessible communities where all people have equitable opportunities to work, socialize, and participate in activities is at the forefront of our government’s agenda. Budget 2021 maintains such support as:

• $20 million for community organizations for such initiatives as the Supportive Living Program to help prevent homelessness and transition houses to support women and children fleeing intimate partner violence.
• $17 million has been allocated to preserve and repair social housing.
• $11 million for the Rent Supplement Program.
• $10.8 million is allocated for low-income homeowner repair programs, supporting seniors to remain in their homes. This includes $2.3 million for accessibility modifications and $2 million for energy efficiency upgrades.
• Close to $820,000 to support inclusion and the removal and prevention of barriers, which includes such programs as the Accessible Vehicle Program, Accessible Taxi Grant Program and Inclusion Grant Program.

Safer Communities

Our government is committed to the safety and security of our communities and to supporting a more equitable society for women and diverse populations. Budget 2021 includes:

• More than $3.2 million in operational funding for women’s and anti-violence organizations.
• $508,000 for electronic monitoring which enhances the supervision of offenders.
• More than $350,000 to explore opportunities to expand the Family Violence Intervention Court.
• More than $200,000 for Drug Treatment Court, which helps people with serious drug addictions break the cycle of crime.

First Responders

Our government is committed to working with municipalities, local service districts, and regional service boards to strengthen the level of fire services provided to communities. Budget 2021 includes:

• $2.7 million for fire protection vehicles and equipment, as well as support for the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services.
• Over $500,000 to advance the public safety radio.