Progress continues to be made on the measures our government introduced in 2021 to transform and modernize government. These initiatives, as well as new transformations introduced as part of Budget 2023, support our pursuit of a stronger, smarter, self-sufficient, and sustainable Newfoundland and Labrador.
New Transformations and Modernizations
Medical Transportation Assistance Program/Department of Labrador Affairs
While our Medical Transportation Assistance Program is far-reaching when compared to other transportation assistance programs in Canada, we appreciate the unique needs of Labradorians, and those travelling from rural, and more remote areas, who need to travel for health care.
With the goal of improving accessibility to health care and making sure that the Medical Transportation Assistance Program is operating as effectively as possible, Budget 2023 includes an additional $1 million for the program. We will also be transitioning its responsibility into a standalone Department of Labrador Affairs, which will put a heightened focus on this valuable program in our reimagined health care system.
Office of Access to Information and Protection of Privacy
Our actions reinforce the weight we put on the principles of openness, transparency, and accountability. In 2021-22, more than 3,700 requests for information were received through ATIPPA. Comparatively, in 2015-16, that number was 1,410.
Focused on continuous improvement, an additional $2 million is being allocated to transform departmental Access to Information and Protection of Privacy. With a more integrated approach, we are contributing to greater sharing of information with consistency, and transparency.
Modernizing Government’s Information Technology Assets
Through a five year, $50 million investment we will embark on a renewal and modernization of government’s information technology assets to deliver on that priority. This considerable investment will spur innovation and operational improvements. This complements our four year, $25 million investment to improve connectivity in the province.
Provincial Ambulance Program
The provincial ambulance program will begin to be consolidated from 60 separate road ambulance services to a single, integrated ambulance service with centralized dispatch.
Health Information System
Enhanced communications across the health care spectrum will be advanced by a new Health Information System. This new system will remove barriers to residents accessing services by improving information sharing between health care providers and facilities, thereby enhancing continuity of care. Furthermore, investments for the Electronic Medical Record system will enable Family Care Teams to share appropriate clinical information with other providers within their patients’ circle of care.
Provincial Highways and Roads
Close to $1.4 billion in new spending over the next five years will transform our network of provincial highways and roads. A strengthened transportation network improves the mobility of the travelling public and businesses, and creates new jobs.
Ongoing Transformation
Changes to the Education System
The integration of the English School District into the Provincial Government is on-track for the start of the upcoming school year.
One Provincial Health Authority
The new provincial health authority will encompass the regional health authorities and the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information on April 1. The new health authority will help improve recruitment and retention, streamline programs and services, as well as eliminate the duplication of corporate services.
Nalcor Energy Operations Moved Under Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro
The process of transitioning Nalcor into Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro has helped transform the public utility into an increasingly productive and efficient operation.
Future Fund Legislation
We have made the first ever contribution of $157 million to establish a Future Fund. We are projecting to contribute another $127 million in 2023-24. This fund will help ensure greater prosperity for future generations.
Review of Provincial Assets
The first review of the province’s assets was a helpful step in understanding the value of our assets and how government could potentially optimize their potential for the full benefit of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Accountability Framework
A new Accountability Framework has been developed for government departments, public bodies, and all organizations receiving public funds. It is designed to strengthen oversight, to better support linkages between departmental budgeting, planning, and performance, and to ensure accountability for every dollar and decision made.
NL 911
Legislation passed in the legislature in spring 2022, led to NL 911 transitioning into core government. The transition will help enhance the system to provide even better service as it becomes part of our broader public safety initiatives.
