New Initiatives to Improve Services within Crown Lands Division Announced

Gerry Byrne, Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources, announced yesterday initiatives that will improve Crown Lands services.

Some of the initiatives include:

• Implementation of a toll-free, dedicated inquiries line and email address;

• A 90 business day service standard;

• Commitment to eliminate application backlog; and

• New Land Use Inquiry Map.

The public now has additional and enhanced access through a dedicated toll-free telephone number (1-833-891-3249) and email address (crownlandsInfo@gov.nl.ca) to obtain information on the Crown Lands application process or to inquire about submitted applications. Crown Lands receives an estimated 10,000 inquiries annually.

The Crown Lands Division has had a consistent backlog, estimated to be growing at a rate of approximately 1,000 applications per year. Dedicated teams have been established in each region to address the backlog of applications.

For all new applications received, a new 90 business day service standard will be implemented whereby all applicants will receive a response within that timeframe. This will eliminate any further growth in the backlog of applications.