The province received $10.2 million from a recent $550-million tobacco settlement.
Canada's federal, provincial and territorial governments reached deals with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and JTI-Macdonald Corp. April 13.
Ottawa filed a suit against the companies in 2003 over the illegal movement of tobacco in the early 1990s.
It was alleged the firms had exported Canadian cigarettes to the U.S. knowing the products would re-enter the country without being taxed.
In addition to the settlements, JTI-Macdonald pleaded guilty in an Ontario court to aiding persons in possession of tobacco not packaged in accordance with the excise act. As well, Northern Brands International, a company related to R.J. Reynolds, pleaded guilty to a conspiracy offence.
The actions see R.J. Reynolds forking out $325 million, JTI-Macdonald fined $150 million and Northern Brands fined $75 million.
The governments shared $491 million of the money, with payouts based on an agreed upon percentage.
Newfoundland and Labrador received its portion April 20.
Finance Minister Tom Marshall told The Telegram Wednesday that the money went into general revenues and will be spent on programs and services.
That includes funding for anti-smoking initiatives, he said.
"Of course, we're committed to the health and well-being of our residents on a number of fronts and we'll support initiatives, programs and services that will contribute to that objective," he said.
It's not the first payout the province has received from a tobacco lawsuit.
In 2008, as part of agreements reached with other manufacturers, Newfoundland and Labrador got $22.6 million.
The April settlement includes a protocol to ensure the companies have internal controls in place.
It also requires the company to assist governments fight contraband tobacco.
Marshall also noted government increased tobacco taxes in this year's budget to persuade people not to smoke.
sbartlett@thetelegram.com
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
