The provincial government is extending health care coverage to all Ukrainians who enter Canada and come to Newfoundland and Labrador under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel.

The province is allowing displaced Ukrainians who come to the province to avail of MCP and Prescription Drug Plan coverage.

Immigration Minister Gerry Byrne admits it may be some time yet before Newfoundland and Labrador could see any Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war.

He says the application process for the Special Ukrainian Permit to Canada just opened up and it will take another two weeks for applications to be processed.

In the meantime, Byrne says they’re ready if and when Ukrainians start arriving.

He says having the right supports in place is part of the welcoming process.