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HALIFAX, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2025

Sixty-fifth General Assembly

First Session

9:07 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Danielle Barkhouse

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

John White, Marco MacLeod, Tom Taggart

THE SPEAKER « » : I ask that all members rise - and those in the gallery, if able - for the playing of "O Canada."

[The national anthem was played.]

Order. We'll begin the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : I beg leave to make some introductions relative to my petition.

SPEAKER: Please do.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Joining us here in the gallery, and I believe downstairs as well, I am thrilled to welcome to Province House - the People's House - a number of Nova Scotians who, with others, have mobilized to fill a gap in information and consultation across this province about uranium mining.

I am thrilled to welcome - for folks who are actually in the gallery, as I read your names, if you want to stand up: from the Society for Safe and Responsible Resource Development, Meagan Dimmel, Alice Cochrane, John Kennedy, Leo Duggan, Kayla Leary-Pinch, Wendy Dunham, Sarah Trask, and Brad Redden; from the Ecology Action Centre, Jillian Ramsay, Mimi O'Handley, and Karen McKendry; from the South Shore Chapter of the Council of Canadians, Marion Moore and Karen Acton; from the citizens of Pictou County against uranium development, Karen Ewing; from the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, Catherine Cervin; from the Raging Grannies, Kathrin Winkler; and a number of other community members, including Marlene Brown, Linda van Vulpen, Jacqueline Steudler, Joanne Updegrove, Kim Cummings, Jeanne Cain, and Richmond Campbell. Welcome to the House. (Applause)

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THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition. I think combined, we're going to table about 7,000 signatures of Nova Scotians that have been collected since last spring. The operative clause reads:

We, the undersigned residents of Nova Scotia, call upon the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to act in the interests of public health, environmental integrity, and community safety by:

1.      Immediately halting the current Request for Proposals open for uranium exploration and extraction in Nova Scotia;

2.      Reinstating the moratorium on uranium exploration and extraction without delay;

3.      Instituting a permanent legislative ban on uranium exploration and extraction to ensure long-term protection of Nova Scotians, our watersheds, and our environment from the significant and well-documented risks associated with uranium-related industrial activities.

As I mentioned, there are close to 7,000 signatures, and I have affixed mine as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : I beg leave to table a petition from Nova Scotians from across the province, the operative clause of which reads:

We, the undersigned residents of Nova Scotia, call upon the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to act in the interests of public health, environmental integrity, and community safety by:

1.      Immediately halting the current Request for Proposals open for uranium exploration and extraction in Nova Scotia;

2.       

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3.       

4.      Reinstating the moratorium on uranium exploration and extraction without delay;

5.      Instituting a permanent legislative ban on uranium exploration and extraction to ensure long-term protection of Nova Scotians, our watersheds, and our environment from the significant and well-documented risks associated with uranium-related industrial activities.

There are approximately 1,093 signatures on the petition, and I've affixed my signature to the petition as required by Rule 63(5) of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition:

We the undersigned residents of Warburton Rd, O'Brien St, and Oak St. in Gardiner Mines request the Department of Public Works pave these roads to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians.

There are approximately 21 signatures, and I've affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition, the operative clause reading:

Provincial local roads are in disrepair and in need of repaving especially, Sunnyside Dr., Station St, Monroe St, and Lorway St. These roads are becoming extremely dangerous to motorists and pedestrians. We, the undersigned request the Department of Public Works pave these roads which have fallen into disrepair.

There are 28 signatures. I've affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

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KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition, the operative clause reading:

Whereas it is unacceptable for seniors to live in hot buildings without relief during extreme heat events; and

Whereas we are concerned about older Nova Scotians who are at especially high risk of illness and death during hot weather;

Therefore, we the undersigned request that the Minister responsible for Housing (Department of Growth and Development) provide air conditioning in government-owned seniors housing.

There are approximately 94 signatures, and I've affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

[9:15 a.m.]

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition, the operative clause reading:

Whereas workers need and deserve fair wages and safe working conditions and they have the right to bargain for them; and

Whereas the use of scab labour prolongs strikes and lockouts and disincentivizes employers from reaching a fair deal with workers and provokes violence;

Therefore we the undersigned call on the Nova Scotia Legislature to pass the Nova Scotia NDP's Bill No. 49, which bans the use of scab labour in Nova Scotia.

Speaker, 148 Cape Bretoners have signed this, and I have affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg to introduce a petition, the operative clause reading:

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We the undersigned residents of Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier request the Executive Council of Nova Scotia to enact an automatic seniors benefit. Nova Scotia has the highest rate of poverty amongst those over 65 of any province in the country. Nova Scotia is one of the only two provincial jurisdictions that does not have a program directly supplementing the GIS of low-income seniors. Seniors in other provinces automatically receive these supplemental benefits, as opposed to the Nova Scotia Seniors Care Grant, which requires an application and receipts.

Speaker, there are 199 signatures, and I have affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition, the operative clause reading:

Whereas 2SLGBTQIA+ youth report some of the most concerning outcomes in Nova Scotia's annual Student Success Survey in terms of belonging, understanding, and experiences of gender-based violence, homophobia, and transphobia; and

Whereas hundreds of Nova Scotians have been engaged in the process and immense efforts have been taken in consultation work to revise the 2014 guidelines to support trans and gender-diverse students, but have never been released;

We the undersigned call upon the government to immediately reinstate the process to update the 2014 guidelines to support trans and gender-diverse students.

There are hundreds of online signatures and a page here, to which I have affixed my signature as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Lunenburg.

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition, the operative clause reading:

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We the undersigned call on local authorities to prioritize the immediate repair and long-term maintenance of the Farmington and Four Mile Woods roads. Our community deserves safe, reliable infrastructure that reflects the care and investment we put into our homes and neighbourhoods.

Speaker, the petition has 242 signatures, and I have affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : My apologies but the petition is out of order. We cannot accept it.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : Speaker, I would like to table the petition that was previously ruled out of order. (Interruption) Oh, not this item? Sorry.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Seniors and Long-term Care.

HON. BARBARA ADAMS » : On behalf of the Minister of Justice, I rise to table the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission Annual Report of 2024-25.

THE SPEAKER « » : The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Seniors and Long-term Care.

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : On behalf of the Minister of Justice, pursuant to Section 47 of the Public Trustee Act, I am tabling the following Public Trustee annual reports for the fiscal years of 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

THE SPEAKER « » : The reports are tabled.

The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

HON. GREG MORROW « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a pair of reports: the Nova Scotia Farm Loan board 2024-25 Annual Report and the Nova Scotia Crop and Livestock Insurance Commission 2024-25 Annual Report.

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THE SPEAKER « » : The reports are tabled.

The honourable Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

HON. KENT SMITH « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table two reports: one is the Fish Harvester Registration and Certification Board 2024 Annual Report, and one is the Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board 2024-25 Annual report.

THE SPEAKER « » : The reports are tabled.

The honourable member for Lunenburg.

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : Third time's the charm. I would like to table the petition previously ruled out of order.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, permission to make an introduction?

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, in your gallery, we have three of my colleagues from the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change. My colleagues play a vital role in safeguarding our environment and ensuring Nova Scotians enjoy clean air and water. Joining us today are air quality technician Lee Loran, air quality technician Jeremy Bedard, and water resources lab supervisor Alan Tattrie. I ask my colleagues to please rise and receive the warm welcome of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here.

The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

RESOLUTION NO. 245

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas clean drinking water and safe air are essential to public health and the prevention of illness, and we have a collective responsibility to protect, conserve, and manage sustainability for the benefit of all residents; and

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Whereas the Department of Environment and Climate Change is advancing this work through updated air emission targets and ambient air quality standards and developing water quality objectives, ensuring Nova Scotians continue to enjoy clean and healthy air; and

Whereas the Department of Environment and Climate Change dedicated monitoring teams, including air quality technicians Lee Loran and Jeremy Bedard of the air quality team and water resources lab supervisor Alan Tattrie of the water resource management unit; they play a vital role in safeguarding our environment and ensuring Nova Scotians enjoy clean air and water;

Therefore be it resolved that Nova Scotians join me in recognizing these teams for their important contributions to environmental protection, sustainable management, and the health of our communities.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

RESOLUTION NO. 246

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day:

I shall read and table the message from His Honour, the Lieutenant Governor, transmitting the estimates of sums required for the service of the Province for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027, for the consideration of this House, table the Estimate books, table the Government Business Plan, table the Estimate Resolutions, deliver my budget speech, and move that the estimates of sums required for the service of the Province for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027, being supplied to be granted to His Majesty, be referred to the Committee of the Whole House on Supply.

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THE SPEAKER « » : The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Emergency Management.

RESOLUTION NO. 247

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas October 5^th to 11^th is National Fire Prevention Week, an annual initiative that brings awareness to the ways residents can learn more about potential household hazards and how to be prepared in the event of a fire in their home; and

Whereas this year's theme is "Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home" and focuses on how to safely use lithium-ion batteries in the home, as these batteries are used in many everyday products and have the ability to start a residential fire if mishandled; and

Whereas personal preparedness is a pillar of preventing fires and keeping people safe when they do occur, so having working smoke detectors and a family escape plan and being informed is key;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the importance of National Fire Prevention Week and ensure their smoke detectors are functional and that their family has a plan in the event that they need it.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

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TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, in your gallery, it's an honour for me to acknowledge the presence of Planetary Technologies in this Legislature. This is a thriving clean tech company located in a place called Dartmouth. Joining us today are Planetary Technologies CEO Mike Kelland, Dr. Will Burt, Chief Ocean Scientist, and Diana Philip, the VP of Community Relations. I ask you to please stand and receive the warm welcome of the Nova Scotia Legislature. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the People's House. We hope you enjoy your time here.

The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

RESOLUTION NO. 248

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas greenhouse gas emissions are the primary cause of global climate change and reducing them is essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change; and

Whereas Planetary Technologies, a Nova Scotian clean tech company located in Dartmouth, is removing about 10,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually using the ocean's natural carbon cycle; and

Whereas Planetary's work, which is globally recognized, uses innovative ocean technology, which also restores the health of ocean water and marine ecosystems;

Therefore be it resolved that Nova Scotians join me in recognizing Planetary Technologies and Mike Kelland, the co-founder and CEO, and his team for their leadership and innovation in positioning Nova Scotia as a leader in climate solutions.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

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RESOLUTION NO. 249

HON. GREG MORROW « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following congratulatory resolution:

Whereas Willy Versteeg, owner of Barneybrook Farms Ltd., has dedicated more than a decade of exemplary service to the Nova Scotia Farm Loan Board, bringing his expertise, dedication, and leadership; and

Whereas Mr. Versteeg is not only a respected voice in the agricultural industry, having owned and operated Barneybrook Farms Ltd. for 27 years in East Hants; Willy is a community leader, having served as a municipal councillor, President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, Director of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, and Chair and Vice-Chair of the Farmers Dairy Audit Committee; and

[9:30 a.m.]

Whereas throughout his career, Willy has been a champion for farmers, rural communities, and the future of agriculture in Nova Scotia, earning the admiration and respect of his colleagues and industry partners;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House recognize and thank Willy Versteeg for his outstanding service and lasting contributions to Nova Scotia's agricultural sector, and extend to him the best wishes in his retirement from the Nova Scotia Farm Loan Board, and in the next chapter of his life and career.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 250

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, I hereby request that the following motion be adopted without notice, pursuant to Rule 32(5) of The Rules and Forms of Procedure of the House of Assembly.

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Be it resolved that all congratulatory motions deposited with the Clerk pursuant to the Rule 32(3) of the The Rules and Forms of the Procedure of the House of Assembly from September 23, 2025, to the rising of the House today, that have not been otherwise considered by the House of Assembly be approved.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Emergency Management.

RESOLUTION NO. 251

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the efforts to control the Long Lake wildfires highlighted the need for strong relationships with our partners for effective emergency response, whether it be different levels of government or volunteer fire departments, or the private sector; and

Whereas the private sector did indeed step up to help at Long Lake, and particularly our forestry contractors, who rolled in with their heavy equipment, helping to build firebreaks, cutting and clearing hazard trees from roadways and power lines to keep crews, equipment, homes, and infrastructures safe, and building access routes; and

Whereas after a devastating event, we need skills from all sectors, especially those advanced in technical skills like operating heavy equipment and special tools, people with drivers' licenses for Classes 1 to 4, Red Seal tradespeople, and skilled people who can help with tree removal and clearing debris;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Legislature recognize those members of the Nova Scotia Forestry Contractors Association of Nova Scotia for their efforts during the Long Lake wildfire response, and their willingness to help when the going got tough.

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Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

RESOLUTION NO. 252

HON. NOLAN YOUNG « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Mary Smith of New Waterford is the 2025 recipient of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award presented annually in every Canadian province to recognize individuals who have made outstanding progress in literacy and have shown leadership in their community, school, or workplace; and

Whereas Mary has overcome extraordinary challenges, including a life-altering disease, homelessness, a lack of a formal education, and at age 30, received a liver transplant, after which she joined the Adult Learning Association of Cape Breton County to make a fresh start; and

Whereas Mary successfully passed all five Canadian Adult Education Credential tests in November 2024, exceeding expectations on four, created a classroom lending library, started a book club, and is now pursuing a career in the skilled trades in metal fabrication at NSCC;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Legislature congratulate Mary for receiving the 2025 Council of Federation Literacy Award for her resilience, determination, and commitment to lifelong learning, which should inspire all Nova Scotians.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

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It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

RESOLUTION NO. 253

HON. TORY RUSHTON « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nova Scotia has been facing a challenging wildfire season with the driest conditions we have ever seen, and more than 150 fires around the province to date, the largest at Long Lake, which has been burning deeper and longer than any fire in recorded history, and the latest major fire of this season we have ever seen at Lake George; and

Whereas the call to action has been answered with unwavering dedication and skill by Nova Scotia wildland firefighters, our helicopter water bombers, our municipal and volunteer departments, our colleagues at the Department of Emergency Management, and a host of other partners in the province, and resources we contracted and borrowed through agreements; and

Whereas we are pleased that the Long Lake fire is under control, and we are fighting Lake George with all our might to get it under control;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House recognize the combined efforts of multiple organizations to protect our communities from the wildfire and support everyone affected.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage.

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RESOLUTION NO. 254

HON. DAVE RITCEY « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Team Nova Scotia competed at the 2025 Canada Summer Games with determination, skill, and pride, representing our province with distinction on the national stage; and

Whereas the athletes, coaches, staff, and volunteers of Team Nova Scotia demonstrate remarkable dedication, teamwork, and perseverance throughout the competition; and

Whereas Team Nova Scotia set a record for the most medals ever won by the province at the Canada Games, marking a historic achievement, bringing home 61 medals: 21 gold, 22 silver, and 18 bronze;

Therefore be in resolved that all members of the House join me in congratulating Team Nova Scotia on this record-setting performance and recognizing the inspiration they provide to Nova Scotians right across this beautiful province.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The Honourable Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 255

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Let me quickly set the stage. In 1975, Iron Maiden was formed; quite possibly the greatest fight in the history of sports, the Thrilla in Manila, happened; Saturday Night Live debuted; and a small company named Microsoft was founded.

Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

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Whereas Gordon Hebb began serving with the Office of the Legislative Counsel on December 1, 1975; and

Whereas Gordon Hebb has led the Office of the Legislative Counsel for 31 years, making him the longest-serving Chief Legislative Counsel in Canada - maybe the world, Gordon, maybe the world; and

Whereas Gordon Hebb is recognized, and rightfully so, by his peers in Canada and beyond for his excellence as a legislative drafter and his authority on parliamentary law;

Therefore be it resolved that the House recognize Gordon's tremendous contribution to lawmaking in the province and thank him for his 50 years of service in the House of Assembly.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried. (Standing Ovation)

I was waiting for the smile.

The honourable Minister of Seniors and Long-term Care.

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : With unanimous consent of the House, I would like to revert to Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request to revert to Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The motion is defeated.

Before we move on to Introduction of Bills, I have some special guests. I beg leave to make an introduction. Miss Emma, who is fantastic - I met her here in the House on a tour - and her father, Ryan. Unfortunately, mother Jess couldn't make it here today. Welcome to the sitting. Please stand. She looks absolutely fabulous in the Speaker's top hat, by the way. (Applause)

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INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 174 - An Act to Amend Chapter 31 of the Acts of 2001, the Fatality Investigations Act. (Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin)

Bill No. 175 - An Act to Protect Renters from Unfair Practices. (Claudia Chender)

Bill No. 176 - An Act to Increase the Housing Supply. (Hon. Derek Mombourquette)

Bill No. 177 - An Act Respecting a Commercial Rent Cap. (Krista Gallagher)

Bill No. 178 - An Act to Amend Chapter 401 of the Revised Statutes, 1989, the Residential Tenancies Act, Respecting Safe and Clean Apartments. (Hon. Iain Rankin)

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make a quick introduction before I introduce my next bill.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : In the gallery today, we have an old friend, Emily Lutz, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers' Association. Beside her we have Janette McDonald from the Wild Blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia. Thanks for coming. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the People's House. We hope you enjoy your time here.

[9:45 a.m.]

Bill No. 179 - An Act Respecting Income Stability for Agricultural Producers. (Krista Gallagher)

Bill No. 180 - An Act to Amend Chapter 401 of the Revised Statutes, 1989, the Residential Tenancies Act, Respecting Protection for Pet Owners. (Hon. Iain Rankin)

Bill No. 181 - An Act Respecting Affordable Housing Accountability. (Suzy Hansen)

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Bill No. 182 - An Act to Amend Chapter 27 of the Acts of 2000, the Employment Support and Income Assistance Act, Respecting Equal Support for the Unhoused. (Lina Hamid)

Bill No. 183 - An Act to Amend Chapter 3 of the Acts of 2016, the Mineral Resources Act. (Lisa Lachance)

Bill No. 184 - An Act to Protect Additional Nature Areas in Nova Scotia. (Lisa Lachance)

Bill No. 185 - An Act to Amend Chapter 13 of the Acts of 2012, the Patient Safety Act. (Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin)

THE SPEAKER « » : Ordered that these bills be read a second time on a future day.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : I was going for Notices of Motion.

NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

RESOLUTION NO. 256

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas January 7^th is recognized as International Day to End Conversion Therapy. Conversion therapy is based on and propagates myths and stereotypes about sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression; and

Whereas conversion therapy seeks to change an individual's sexual orientation to heterosexual, to change an individual's gender identity to cisgender, or to change an individual's gender expression so that it corresponds to the sex assigned to them at birth, and conversion therapy has caused significant harm to persons who have been subjected to it, including depression, anxiety, self-rejection, social isolation, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts, as well as infringing on their rights to dignity and equality; and

Whereas in December 2021, both the Senate of Canada and the House of Commons unanimously passed Bill C-4, which banned the harmful practice of conversion therapy, and on January 7, 2022, the day on which Bill C-4 came into force, conversion therapy became illegal in Canada, and it is desirable to raise awareness of the harms caused by conversion therapy, and that it is fitting that the 7^th of January is established as a day of reflection;

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Therefore be it resolved that on a future day, the House shall debate the importance of recognizing January 7^th as International Day to End Conversion Therapy and the harms caused by conversion therapy.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice of motion is tabled.

The honourable member for Cumberland North.

RESOLUTION NO. 257

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas survivors of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual violence in Nova Scotia are being pressured into non-disclosure agreements to silence them, causing significant harms to mental and physical health, creating barriers to care; and

Whereas other jurisdictions have introduced survivor-led safeguards that curb the misuse of NDAs while protecting the right to speak with police, legal counsel, regulated health professionals, and trusted supports; and

Whereas Nova Scotia lacks equivalent statutory protections and clear directives to public bodies regarding the use of NDAs in these cases;

Therefore be it resolved that this topic be referred to the Standing Committee on Health as a priority, a public study of the use and misuse of NDAs in cases of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual violence in Nova Scotia, including impacts on mental health, access to care, patient safety, and public health, and to report this back to the House with findings and recommendations.

Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver.

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Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice of motion is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

HON. TIM HOUSTON (The Premier) « » : Speaker, just before I do my statement, can I make an introduction?

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

THE PREMIER « » : Seated in the gallery behind me today, we have a former colleague, former Halifax Regional Municipality councillor, former MLA: the honourable Steve Craig is with us today. Welcome, Steve. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome back. We hope you enjoy your time here. (Laughs)

THE PREMIER « » : Ask him if he misses it, Speaker.

THE SPEAKER « » : Do you miss it? Honourable? Okay.

The honourable member for Pictou East.

DOUCETTE, KEITH: 25 YRS. WITH CDN. PRESS - RECOG.

THE PREMIER « » : I rise today to acknowledge the career and contributions of Keith Doucette. He started in radio and then moved to The Canadian Press. For the last 25 years Keith has been with CP, covering stories that matter to Nova Scotians. His work was acknowledged in 2020. In that year he was part of a team of Canadian Press reporters who won the 2020 National Newspaper Award for breaking news for their coverage of the mass shooting in Portapique. From tragedy to triumph he covered countless elections, budgets, celebrations, and milestones.

Now I ask all members to join me in congratulating Keith as he marks a milestone of his own. This is the last legislative sitting he will cover. We wish you well in your retirement, Keith, and hope you have a chance to watch many Habs games and we thank you for your work. Maybe we'll ask Keith to stand and receive the warm welcome from the House. (Standing Ovation)

THE SPEAKER « » : Thank you for your service. We all know you will still come back to watch.

[Page 2180]

The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

DOUCETTE, KEITH: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : I would like to join in acknowledging one of the stalwarts of the Nova Scotia Legislature Press Gallery, Keith Doucette. Keith will retire later this month. We expect this sitting to end today and that this will be his last day covering the Nova Scotia Legislature from the People's House.

I don't know if he'll come back to watch but certainly we hope he will. On a personal note, I'll say that it's daunting to face a scrum as a newly-elected MLA. Keith asked questions right over the plate, waited until he got an answer, was dogged but fair and kind. His reporting was an invaluable contribution to the people's understanding of what happened in this House.

Some might think of Keith as a little bit grumpy, but we know that underneath that rough exterior there is a heart of gold that is dedicated to telling it like it is and serving the people of Nova Scotia.

Thank you, Keith, for your work over all these years and best of luck in the next chapter.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

DOUCETTE, KEITH: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Our caucus wants to join our colleagues in thanking Keith Doucette, who is here in the gallery, for his many years of work, more than 20 years of asking tough questions - always fair, though. He is moving on to a well-deserved retirement.

He has been a valued journalist for MLAs and staff on all sides of the House and we're grateful for the dedication and integrity he has shown throughout his career. Of course he always approached the job with limitless optimism that only an Expos fan could have.

All jokes aside, I hope retirement brings you lots of well-deserved rest and relaxation. On behalf of all of us, thank you and congratulations.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : I'd like to request that the time allocation for Daily Business be extended. I know that people on all sides of the House have some guests. We would like an additional 10 minutes.

[Page 2181]

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request to add 10 minutes to the Statements by Members.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

Unfortunately, no.

The honourable member for Bedford South.

DAMIAN STOILOV » : I beg leave to make several introductions before I begin my statement.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

DAMIAN STOILOV « » : In the gallery I am honoured to introduce members of the Maskwa Aquatic Club. Would you please stand when your name is called: Christian Hall, Morgan Pugh-Toole, Doug Ellery, Jacob McKenna . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, the time allotted for Statements by Members has expired.

[10:00 a.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The time is ten o'clock. We will finish at 10:50 a.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

PREM.: SUDDEN HARP CUTS - JUSTIFY

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, power bills have gone up $400 a year since this government was elected. There's a rate hike coming from Nova Scotia Power.

What is this government doing to help people cope with rising costs, while they chose to kick 46,000 Nova Scotians off the Heating Assistance Rebate Program, with no warning, and they cut hundreds of dollars from those who remain eligible?

[Page 2182]

My question is: How can this Premier, who has spent an historic amount of money, justify these cuts off the backs of working Nova Scotians?

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, these are tough decisions, for sure, but I want to assure Nova Scotians that the amount that is paid out under the HARP, as it is known, is much higher today than it was when we first formed government.

We've taken a number of initiatives to try to support Nova Scotians. We know many people are struggling. We've taken a number of initiatives to try to support them. We reduced taxes by $500 million. When we did that, the NDP voted against that tax cut that supports Nova Scotians.

We instituted the School Lunch Program that is supporting so many students across this province. When we did that, the NDP voted against that program. We will continue to look for ways to support Nova Scotians.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, they cut taxes, and they cut programs, but we know that rent has gone up for the average Nova Scotian by $4,400 since this government has been elected. At the same time, eviction timelines have become tighter and protections have gotten weaker. Life is getting more expensive and more uncertain under this government. Why is the Premier rushing to end this legislative session when there is still so much work to be done for Nova Scotians?

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, we know that there are many Nova Scotians struggling. That's why we have a deficit. We are investing in Nova Scotians. We will continue to invest in Nova Scotians because we know that's what's needed at this time.

We're not afraid to do that, and we will continue to do that. That is the opposite of what Nova Scotians saw when the NDP had their one chance in government. You know what they did? They raised taxes when Nova Scotians were under an affordability crisis.

Speaker, do you know that they raised taxes after promising Nova Scotians that they would not raise taxes. Actually, that is why I got involved in politics, to be honest, but we know that we're investing in health care. We know we are investing in housing - record housing sites, but we also know there's work to be done. We will continue to do it.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, it is October, but I'd like to be the first to welcome the Premier to 2025. Nova Scotians in 2025 are working harder than ever to make ends meet. Since this government has been elected, the average Nova Scotian's rent has gone up by nearly $4,400 a year. Families are spending $400 more a year on their power bills, the poverty rate in Nova Scotia is the highest in the country, and it has increased by 59 percent.

When will this Premier spend as much time on these issues and the issues facing Nova Scotians as he does on his PR campaigns?

[Page 2183]

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, we know there is work to be done, for sure. That's why we are doing the work. Free bridge tolls helping a lot of Nova Scotians every single day. You know who voted against that? The NDP. Free parking at hospitals. You know who voted against that? The NDP.

I could go on and on about the investments we've made in Nova Scotians that the NDP voted against. In fact, they got so tired of voting against things that they don't even vote on many things now. We are here to support Nova Scotians. We're not ashamed to do it, and we will continue to get it done for Nova Scotians.

THE SPEAKER « » : Oh, we are all so friendly today. (Laughter)

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

PREM.: SOCIAL MEDIA MIN. AGE - ACTION

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I know who voted last night. I voted. They didn't, and he didn't. (Interruptions) I was there.

THE SPEAKER « » : Oh, come on, you're pushing it.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Sorry, okay. Speaker, in my 10 years as MLA, I have never seen so many parents reach out in support of an idea to set minimum age requirements for social media. Families want us to protect children from the real harms they are facing online.

Last week, the government put an op-ed out, saying it could only be effective if the federal government takes the lead, which we agree with. So I would like to ask the Premier « » : While he was in Ottawa the last two days, did he raise this issue with the government?

THE PREMIER « » : Thank you, Speaker, for this important question. We know that protecting kids is paramount, for sure. That is why we removed cell phones from classrooms. I appreciate that it's an idea that is being advanced, but there are so many practical issues with the idea.

To prove your age, you would have to give your ID to the likes of Elon Musk and Bill Gates, and some of these people. At a time when we are seeing so many things happening in the world, I do not think it is a good idea to give that type of information to those people. But we will look for ways to support children, and we will continue to do that.

[Page 2184]

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Instead of just writing an op-ed, perhaps the Premier would consider joining us in sending a direct letter to the federal government on this. We know this conversation has already started internationally. In Australia, it began at the state level, and now the federal government there is moving forward with legislation.

Here at home, the evidence is clear. One in three children report being exposed to harmful content before the age of 13. Will the Premier agree to adding his voice to ours in a joint letter to the federal government urging action?

THE PREMIER « » : We know members in this House would know that social media can be a toxic place, for sure. I admire the efforts. There are challenges with it, but we always look for ways to support children, and I will say that I do incredibly value our relationship with the federal government. I have a very good relationship with the Prime Minister and a number of ministers there. I am happy how they support Nova Scotians, how they support Canadians. I share their optimism for what is possible in this country and this province and will continue to work with them on incredibly important issues, possibly including this one at some point.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Nova Scotia has a chance to show real leadership on this file. We have seen jurisdictions around the world grapple with the same problem, and parents here are saying the same thing. They want us to act.

Research shows that early and excessive social media use is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and bullying among young people. Will the Premier commit today to working across party lines to move this forward so the children in Nova Scotia are better protected online?

THE PREMIER « » : I think we've shown Nova Scotians and Canadians that we are a government of action. We do show leadership. We are leading the country in so many ways, in health care improvements. Incredible work has been done in health care, getting rid of interprovincial trade barriers, leading the opportunities to make Canada an energy superpower with Wind West and other opportunities. We are showing real leadership across the country.

On the other hand, the member stood in the House yesterday and said he had a list of cuts that he would make. He didn't table that list, but I am not surprised that he has it because that is the Liberal way - cut, cut, cut, cut. We are the builders. They are the blockers. We will continue to build this province up. We will work with anyone who wants to work with us.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

[Page 2185]

GAD: HOUSING AFFORDABILITY - ACTION

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Life is expensive in Nova Scotia. I wonder if, while the Premier was in Ottawa, he had a chance to look at the parliamentary budget officer's new housing report. That report says, while borrowing costs, better wages, and lower home prices are making it easier for most Canadians to afford a home, that is not true in Halifax. The price of homes in Halifax is 74 percent more than what the average family can afford - 74 percent more.

The rhetoric from this government does not match the reality. On what is likely the last day that we will be in this House, will the Premier acknowledge that housing affordability remains a massive issue for Nova Scotians?

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : Simple answer: Yes. We know that many Nova Scotians are facing significant challenges to find housing. That's why we have a housing plan. That's why it is working. That's why we're seeing supply going up and vacancy rates double.

Buildings don't happen overnight, Speaker. Again, as I mentioned yesterday, it takes investments from the municipal level, from the provincial level, and from the federal level. I'm really optimistic with the opportunities with Build Canada Homes and Minister Robertson, discussions I've had with him. Again, we are committed to building up supply, and 167 percent in year two of our five-year plan - that's dedication. That's working in the right direction.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, life is expensive for families in Nova Scotia. Yesterday we heard that, contrary to what they said just a year ago, this province isn't on track to deliver $10-a-day daycare. It's costing families $3,600 a year to not have that, but in Charlottetown and Saint John, $10-a-day daycare is a reality.

When you add up all of those costs, it's not hard to see why Nova Scotians are falling further behind. I wonder if the Premier had that discussion in Ottawa, because the minister says we need more money from Ottawa to deliver on that promise now.

When Nova Scotians are working harder than ever to make ends meet, why does this government think it's okay to walk off the job after nine days instead of delivering solutions to the people of this province?

COLTON LEBLANC « » : Speaker, there's nothing further from the truth. We're not walking away from the job. We are dedicated to this province and the residents of Nova Scotia every single day.

Again, it is a supply issue. We know that we need to build a supply in this province. Not once has the NDP put forward a policy item to increase housing supply in this province. Frankly, they've avoided and walked out of this Legislature to not vote in favour of these opportunities and budget items.

[Page 2186]

Again, I will table for the Legislature all of the housing investments that we've made across this province from September of last year. Which one do the NDP want to not support? Which one would they vote against?

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Armdale.

DHW - EMERG. DEPTS.: REGIONAL COVERAGE - ACTION

ROD WILSON « » : Speaker, as the government wants to argue about what happened in the past, I'd like to bring our attention to what's not happening today in Nova Scotia. As of today, the Roseway emergency department in Shelburne is closed.

I quote: "It's too dangerous to expect people in Shelburne County to have to drive to Yarmouth or to Queens County when they're in need with an emergency. They're geographically isolated. They need that hospital open; they need it to be a full-service hospital."

These were the words of the member for Queens-Shelburne in September 2018. I tabled an article from CBC on that date.

My question, then, is: Does the member still feel that way? To further quote the member . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. The question is out of order.

The honourable member for Halifax Armdale on his final supplementary.

ROD WILSON « » : Could I redirect that question to the Minister of Health and Wellness? Okay, perfect.

According to the Nova Scotia Health Authority site today, in addition to the Roseway, the following emergency departments are closed: All Saints, Strait Richmond, Lillian Fraser, Guysborough Memorial, and Musquodoboit Valley Memorial. Eastern Memorial is closed October 6^th to14^th. I'm happy to help. I'm going to be joining them on October 13^th to cover.

I ask the minister: How does this meet any acceptable regional standards? What's the plan for consistent, sustainable ER services in rural Nova Scotia?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON » : What I want to assure Nova Scotians is that we have an integrated emergency care system. First of all, if someone needs emergency care, it actually starts when they call 911. We have very capable dispatchers. We have an incredible EHS system. We've seen marked improvements across this province because of the investments this government has made in the emergency health care system. Very talented paramedics, very skilled. I would say the best in North America, perhaps the world. That's the first thing every Nova Scotian should know.

[Page 2187]

[10:15 a.m.]

Secondly, we are working very hard on recruitment. We worked on a very competitive contract. We are looking outside of our borders. We're looking at Australia, we're looking at South Africa, and we'll continue to address the emergency needs in the province.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Fairview-Clayton Park.

EECD - CHILD CARE FUNDING: $10 A DAY PROMISE - ADDRESS

LINA HAMID « » : Families in Halifax are paying more than twice what parents in other Canadian cities are paying for child care: over $22 an hour compared to the $10-a-day target. That means parents are losing almost $4,000 a year because this government refuses to fund child care properly.

My question to the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development is: When will this government finally deliver the $10-a-day child care that was promised to Nova Scotian families?

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : I do want to correct the member and also the Leader of the Official Opposition. We are working tirelessly to create spaces here in Nova Scotia. In fact, we are on track to create the 9,500 child care spaces that were promised to Nova Scotians. We have created 7,300 spaces, and we have reduced the average price for child care by 50 percent. That is a huge investment in Nova Scotia, and we're going to continue to work with our partners federally to ensure we get the best for Nova Scotians.

LINA HAMID « » : This government has left money on the table for contraception, and now they're doing the same for Nova Scotian parents. Nova Scotian families are being squeezed from every angle: high rent, high food costs, high commuting costs. Making them pay some of the highest child care costs in the country on top of that is absolutely unacceptable. Families here are paying hundreds of dollars a month more than families in Winnipeg, Charlottetown, and Montreal because of this government's keeping costs high.

Why is this government leaving Nova Scotian parents behind instead of showing leadership in child care?

[Page 2188]

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : It's easy to stand in the House and say that we're leaving money behind with no facts. What money are we leaving behind? We are spending money. They're complaining that we're running a deficit and at the same time they're saying we're not spending enough money. They don't believe in our leadership, but do you know who does? The ministers across Canada who have come to the department to find out how we are making such great progress on child care. I am proud of the work of the department, and we'll continue to invest in Nova Scotian families.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cumberland North.

DOJ: PROV. NDA USE: PROTECT VICTIMS - ADDRESS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : My question is for the Premier. We know that non-disclosure agreements are used to silence victims of sexual assault. I think everyone in this Chamber knows that. If other jurisdictions, like Prince Edward Island, our neighbours, or most recently, the United Kingdom, can change their laws to protect victims, why can we not make those same changes here in Nova Scotia?

I want to table the legislation from Prince Edward Island. I want to table the press release about the legislative changes in the United Kingdom, and I would like the Premier to stand today and tell us why Nova Scotia will not follow suit on what other jurisdictions are doing to protect victims of sexual assault.

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : The member opposite has asked this question on a number of occasions, and we've been clear each time. We absolutely agree that survivors and victims must be supported with sensitivity and respect, with trauma-informed approaches, and with action. As I have said to the member opposite when she's asked previously, it's important that we do this in an informed way and understand all voices and all perspectives.

I believe the member opposite would know, if she was interested in following this issue, that the Uniform Law Conference of Canada met this summer here in Halifax. For folks who don't know, that is the organization that works with all provinces and territories to recommend model legislation. They've considered this issue.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : This topic is very emotional to me. I'm going to continue. The minister said that I have raised this several times. I do, and I am going to continue. I am resolved, Speaker, to get legislation changed here in this province to protect victims. This Premier knows all too well people that we all worked with who were harmed.

When will the Premier do what is right?

BECKY DRUHAN « » : We understand how sensitive and emotional this issue is, but Speaker, we have to be informed by reason. There is one jurisdiction that has adopted legislation, but the Uniform Law Conference of Canada has come together, and they do not yet have advice to us or any of the other provinces on how to proceed. They are working in a reasoned and collaborative way to understand this issue and ensure that they put forward recommendations that reflect the realities and the needs of victims.

[Page 2189]

We are watching that with very much interest, and we will be informed by that as we chart our path forward. I would encourage the member opposite to follow that process as well and inform herself on it.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

LSI: OT PAY RULES: COST OF LIVING PRESSURES - ADDRESS

PAUL WOZNEY « » : While the rest of the country has long recognized a standard 40-hour work week, this government makes Nova Scotians work 48 hours - a whole extra day - before overtime pay kicks in. Hard-working Nova Scotians are facing immense cost-of-living pressures. This rule takes hundreds of dollars out of workers' pockets every month.

Why is this government choosing to maintain overtime rules that harm hard-working Nova Scotians?

HON. NOLAN YOUNG « » : Speaker, we believe in appropriate protections for workers. The Labour Standards Code provides a minimum. Many workplaces go above what the minimum standard is here. We're always looking at what's happening in other jurisdictions and following.

PAUL WOZNEY « » : I wish the minister would pay attention to what's happening in his own jurisdiction, where we have the worst overtime laws in the country. Here are the sad facts: Shipbuilders and tech workers get paid overtime based on the minimum wage. For many, this means their overtime pay is less than their hourly rate. Sawmill workers and construction workers only earn overtime after two weeks of working back-breaking hours. This is shameful.

How can this government claim to be builders when they block fair overtime pay for the workers who build this province?

NOLAN YOUNG « » : Speaker, we raised the minimum wage not once but twice this year, and they voted against it. We made a $500-million tax cut, which saves the average person $1,000. We have 12,000 rent supplements . . . (Interruption)

Our school lunch program - we're doing a lot to invest back into workers and their families.

[Page 2190]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Armdale.

SLTC: CAREGIVER BENEFIT INCREASE - INQUIRE

ROD WILSON « » : Speaker, yesterday the minister told me she was very supportive of Caregivers Nova Scotia and across the province. That's excellent news. I had a constituent tell me also yesterday that she had to quit her job to care for her mother. This came at great financial cost. As the minister referred to yesterday, Nova Scotia has a Caregiver Benefit of $400 a month. That hasn't changed since 2009 - in 16 years.

I ask the minister today: Will the minister provide an immediate increase in the Caregiver Benefit to family members supporting their loved ones at home?

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Caregivers Nova Scotia is one of the organizations that the Province funds, and they're an organization that we have funded for many years. They are also an investment in home care called direct benefits.

Over the last four years, under our government, we have enabled home care to expand by 33 percent in order to provide respite care for those with dementia, as well as a significant increase in home care, where we allow family members to hire even another family member to come into the home to look after a loved one. There are a number of other investments that I can talk about in the next supplementary.

ROD WILSON « » : Speaker, I did not hear an answer to my question, so I ask again: Will the minister provide an immediate increase to caregiver benefits from $400 per month to a 2025-dollar reasonable benefit? I quote my distinguished colleagues - I'm looking for a yes or no answer. Is that possible?

BARBARA ADAMS « » : I'll start out by saying that $500 million worth of tax cuts was a good start. The reality is that we are providing hundreds of millions of dollars more in home care than at any other time in our history. There are more access points to home care. We have VON outpatient clinics, we have respite care, and we have opened five new nursing homes.

There are so many investments in what we are doing to support caregivers in this province that I can't even list them all today, but in the next sitting - during budget estimates - hopefully I'll have a chance to talk about that. There's Cluster Care going on in our low-income seniors' buildings as well, where we are putting home care right in the buildings where people are living.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

DOA - WALSH, WALDO & JUDY:

APPLE HARVEST PROG. HELP - ENSURE

[Page 2191]

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : Waldo and Judy Walsh of Birchleigh Farms have been growing apples a long time, but this year they need help. Because of this summer's drought, the apples are too small to go to market. They're also worried that their trees may have experienced too much stress, and they may not even survive. Currently, crop insurance plans aren't working for growers. People like Waldo and Judy are left footing the bill when they have to replant their entire orchard.

When will the minister ensure that crop insurance programs are working and there are other programs to help fruit growers when they need it most?

HON. GREG MORROW « » : I had the opportunity to visit Waldo and his family at the farm with the member from Kings West, and Emily Lutz was there as well. I appreciated the conversation that we had.

We do have some robust insurance programs in this province, through BRM, that are subsidized by the Province and our partners in the federal government. That being said, we're hearing from farmers that sometimes they don't work, so we are going through a comprehensive review of these programs, commodity by commodity.

From the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture as a partner and the different commodity groups, they're very happy that we're undertaking this work. We're doing what we can now with our provincial programs, but these federal cost-share programs are done through the five-year agreement and will . . .

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : I thank the minister for that answer because many apple growers were hoping that they were going to be able to sell their undersized fruit for juice, but now that the juice plant in Quebec will no longer buy those fruits, there's no place for these small fruits to go. This news kicks fruit growers while they're already down.

Will this government commit to helping apple growers who are reeling from this news?

GREG MORROW « » : Yes, I do commit to it, because we're already doing it. We are supporting apple producers through the All Kinds of Apples program as part of our Agriculture in the Classroom program. We're trying to get more local food in our institutions through institutional procurement - just for an example, trying to get more local apples in and replacing some of the imported fruit that comes in.

[10:30 a.m.]

We are helping through season extension and the On-farm Water Management Program, $2 million in irrigation that will help now and in the future. These are all good things, Speaker. Good things are happening. You won't hear it from the negative daily party. You will hear it from us.

[Page 2192]

I'll tell you another thing: Times are tough, but we're working. We're standing side by side with industry. We don't walk away when times are tough.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

ECC: 2026 CONSERVATION TARGETS - CONFIRM

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : The Minister of Environment and Climate Change boasted in Question Period this session about how much land is protected in the province, taking credit for what past governments have done. The reality is that this government has protected less than 1 percent in over four years - the worst record in recent memory.

I said back in 2022 that the government won't meet their legislated target to end coal by 2030. Now, I will say that it is clear the government won't meet their conservation target of 20 percent by 2030, and even potentially, they'll miss their interim target of 15 percent by next year.

My question is: Will the minister be protecting any land before the end of this year, or will he let another year go by and not fulfill his legal and moral obligations to future generations?

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : I want to thank the member for the question. We remain committed, and the work is ongoing to conserve land and water. We have an interim target of 15 percent. We, the Department of Environment and Climate Change, are working along with the Department of Natural Resources, to achieve that 15 percent target.

Speaker, we take this so seriously that we were the first government in many years to invest $20 million in the Nova Scotia Crown Share Land Legacy Trust. The work is ongoing, and we remain committed to these goals.

IAIN RANKIN « » : Yet having a substantial amount of money, especially federal money on the table, they have protected only 0.7 percent.

My question though - and it's an important question - to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change is: Will the minister at least ensure that all the land that is currently protected, fully protected, remains protected, specifically when it comes to the Mabou Provincial Park, of which there are talks of it to now be unprotected? Will he actually consider going backwards?

It's one thing to not protect more land. Will he be considering removing protection for land already protected, especially Mabou Provincial Park? Yes or no?

[Page 2193]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

HON. TORY RUSHTON « » : What I can say is that we've been very clear with Nova Scotians since day one, when we were elected with a majority government in 2021 and again in 2024, that we will entertain any conversation with any reputable person who wants to come Nova Scotian and help build our economy.

Speaker, they are presupposing what a process is going to look like before the conversations have even got going. We have started the conversation. We have said - and we're very clear - that we need to build this economy. We need to turn things around that have been stagnant for 15 years, and we're the government that's going to do it.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

ANSA: DISMANTLING HATE & RACISM - EXPLAIN

SUZY HANSEN « » : Brent Bowden is an African Nova Scotian Truro police officer who has been on leave for months after a racist incident. He reached out to his MLA, to ministers and even to the Premier, who agreed to meet with him. He has only been bounced from office to office, with no answers and no support.

My question is: Can the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs explain how can this government claim to be dismantling hate and racism while it can't even stand up for one person?

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : I thank the member opposite for the opportunity to say once again that there is no place for racism and hate in Nova Scotia. We have been abundantly clear about that.

Speaker, I also need to say, though, that I cannot speak about any individual cases that may be under investigation or before any courts or tribunals, so I am not speaking to the incident that the member opposite was asking about.

I will say, though, that racism is something we have worked hard in our government to address. We have introduced first-of-its-kind legislation on this very topic. As well, we respect our independent institutions that address these issues and are available for people if they have questions or concerns about these issues.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Speaker, I am going to say nope and nope, because all of these ministers have been approached by this person and nothing has been done. When we say there is no place for racism, let us be clear that that is what is being allowed right now.

[Page 2194]

This government loves to boast about the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act, but with the racism that happened against Officer Bowden, there's been no accountability and no support. The same is true on environmental racism. When we talk about racism, it covers lots of facets. Communities are still waiting to see the environmental racism report that has been sitting on the desks of various ministers for over a year.

If this government is truly committed to dismantling racism, why is it keeping this report under wraps instead of releasing it and taking action?

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.

HON. TWILA GROSSE » : Thank you, Speaker, and thank you to the member opposite for, I think, the question. With regard to the Brent Bowden situation, as Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs, I have toured this province this past summer, and we are supportive. We have offered support in this situation and we will continue to do so.

Our government is against racism. We support programs with regard to racism, and we will continue to do so. Thank you, Speaker. (Interruptions)

THE SPEAKER « » : You know what? I feel like saying wow.

When people are speaking, we do not yell and interrupt them. If there is some in-between little joking or whatever, that's fine, but I am very disappointed that the minister never got out what she had to say in her 45 seconds without hearing so many other voices. Now please, when someone else is speaking, don't yell across the floor at them.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

OSD - INCOME ASSISTANCE RECIP.: BENEFIT RED. - EXPLAIN

KENDRA COOMBES « » : The Minister of Opportunities and Social Development has a habit of saying that the best social program is a job. Yet, when Nova Scotians on income assistance get jobs, this government punishes them. As soon as someone makes $350 a month, their benefits are slashed. Can the minister explain why this government is punishing income assistance recipients for working?

HON. SCOTT ARMSTRONG » : I have to take on the premise of that question. We support our Nova Scotian clients who are on income assistance - the people on income assistance and their families, and support them to get a job. We are doing everything we can to connect them to work, to train them, to provide education, to provide tuition supports, to provide sometimes subsidies for employers to hire them.

We are working and doing everything we can to connect our labour force that are currently accepting income assistance to the job market, because once they are there they can afford to feed their families, they can afford to buy a house, they can afford rent. We need to continue to work to connect people apparently on income assistance who have the ability to work two jobs. We have many programs to do that, and I would be pleased to talk more about that.

[Page 2195]

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I reject that. This government does punish people on income assistance when they get a job. Clear fact. The minister is failing to recognize that when folks are - it's funny, is it?

Folks are able to find work but it doesn't always cover the cost of living. Many Nova Scotians with permanent disabilities can't work 40 hours a week, or 52 weeks a year. They need and deserve flexible support from this government.

Why is this government failing to help Nova Scotians with disabilities keep up with their bills?

SCOTT ARMSTRONG « » : Speaker, that is exactly what we are doing, we are supporting people with disabilities, we increased their benefits. We are actually providing additional supports for people with disabilities as they look to get trained as well.

This a very untapped labour market for employers across Nova Scotia. We have literally thousands of people currently accepting disability benefits who are available to work. They have abilities, they have skills. All it takes is some creative work by the employers across this province to put forward an environment and we are supporting employers as they do that.

We are helping people with disabilities connect to employment, they have a lot to offer. I encourage employers across this province to take a look at this labour market. There's a great opportunity there to find excellent employees.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

FTB: LIVING BEYOND MEANS - END

LISA LACHANCE « » : It's time for a little history lesson. The NDP Government, during a global economic crisis, adjusted its budget to the revenues that they had available to them. No year after year of overspending $1 billion, no year end deficit of over $1 billion.

This government has been recklessly spending Nova Scotians' money since it started, since its first budget. We have been asking for more prudent fiscal management. No one would run their family budget, no one would run their business like this.

My question is: When will this government stop living beyond its means, spending Nova Scotia into debt and austerity?

[Page 2196]

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Speaker, I appreciate the question from the member. We're watching the budget very carefully. We are investing in Nova Scotians. We're confident in the trajectory of the province.

The reality is that I am a little bit confused because what I hear from the Opposition party is spend more on this, spend more on that, do more here, do more there, then also concern about spending, and deficit.

The reality is that we are getting two messages from the Opposition party. I would appreciate maybe them looking at which message they really want to give us. The reality is we are confident in the trajectory of our province. We are investing in what our province needs. We are meeting the needs of our own citizens. We are investing in health care, we're investing in housing, we're investing in roads. We'll continue to invest in our province.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I am happy to provide some advice and some clarity. Right now, this government is breaking a cardinal rule of government fiscal planning, they are running a large deficit on uncontrolled spending, not because of external shocks.

What do we want? We want value for money for Nova Scotians. We want actual results and we want an end to the elaborate use of sole-source contracts, especially for friends. Want some more specific ideas? How about Happipad, a $1 million boondoggle. Let's do some math with that. With that $1.3 million they could have helped over 2,000 more people with the Heating Assistance Rebate Program, at the original rate.

My question to the minister is: When will this government admit that they cannot be trusted with the money of Nova Scotians?

JOHN LOHR « » : The reality is that in 2010 the NDP tabled a $9 billion deficit budget making the HST the highest in Canada. That's the reality and I'll table that. That was the then minister Graham Steele.

The reality, Speaker, is we are confident in the trajectory of our province. We know that we can grow this economy. We have seen the power of a growing economy. A Nova Scotia that grows is a Nova Scotia that can invest in all the things our people need - housing, health care, roads, education. We continue to invest in all those things.

This province will grow. I am confident in our trajectory and our direction. This is a province that has gone through many tough times. We will prevail, we can go through this.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cumberland North.

[Page 2197]

DAE - NSCC BUS. ADMIN. PROG.: CUT - EXPLAIN

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : This government talks a lot about building Nova Scotia, and I do as well. It can happen, one entrepreneur at a time, one business at a time. Despite this, a program that helped train and elevate entrepreneurs in Cumberland County and throughout Nova Scotia saw business cuts to the Business Administration Program at the NSCC.

[10:45 a.m.]

I'm wondering if the minister can explain today the rationale for cutting an important business administration program that helped build the economy in Cumberland County?

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Decisions, when it comes to programming, are made at the NSCC level. We don't interfere with that. What I will say is that we were assured that all of the students and any student who wants access to that program will have a chance through online learning and other sites.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Online learning - there's a need for it, but Speaker, we need a business administration program in Cumberland County. The people of Cumberland County deserve to have a business administration program. We were told previously that it was because of decreased enrolment. My staff did a FOIPOP, and we found that that is certainly not the case. There was not any decrease in enrolment in the business administration program at NSCC campus in Cumberland County.

I'm asking the minister today: Will he make a commitment to truly build up all of Nova Scotia, including Cumberland County, and reinstate the business administration program?

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : I want to thank the member for Cumberland South for originally bringing this to my attention. What I will say is that when the member for Cumberland North actually announced this originally online, the impression that she gave was that it was being cancelled everywhere. We had people from right across this province reach out to us in a state of panic.

Kids are graduating virtually. The member may not think that is a good option, but lots of kids are using it. It allows for flexibility and allows for areas of rural Nova Scotia that do not have access to NSCC. I'm proud of the work being done at the NSCC and will continue to be a partner with them.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

GAD - HAPPIPAD: LACK OF FORESIGHT - ADDRESS

[Page 2198]

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : This government likes to pat itself on the back for getting 60 leases signed out of a target of 500 through the Happipad program, a program designed for people to rent rooms in shared accommodation with their landlord, the exact people this government is stripping tenancy rights away from, as per the bill that was passed last night.

Since this government plans to no longer consider boarders legal tenants, does that make the number of successful leases signed by Happipad not 60 but zero?

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : All tools were on the table, Speaker, when we formed government and tried to address at that time the significant challenges in housing. Due to our Province's investments in housing, working with the federal government, working with municipalities across the province, we are seeing progress. We're not going to let the NDP block us. We going to continue to build this province up.

Again, I ask the NDP, where is your plan for housing? Where is your plan to build supply across this province? They may want to shoot down 60 people and their leases and the ability for them to have a safe roof over their head, but I think that is a success.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Speaker, here's one little part of our plan: end the fixed-term lease loophole so that people can stay housed when they finally find it. We have lots more, and I can table them later.

This government likes to say that the reason it isn't protecting renters is to increase the housing supply. That hasn't worked. In fact, the housing shortage has gotten worse under this government. According to municipal planning documents, the housing supply shortfall in the HRM has doubled since this government took office, and most of what is being built is unaffordable . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The time allotted for Oral Questions Put by Members to Ministers has expired.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth.

NICK HILTON « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

NICK HILTON « » : Joining us in your gallery today is long-time councillor and current Warden for the Municipality and District of Yarmouth, John Cunningham, and his wife, Jennifer. These two Yarmouth residents are dedicated community volunteers. They own Carleton Country Outfitters, a local small business and community hub, and both John and Jennifer volunteer for their local fire department. Jennifer recently helped stand up the local MFR in rural Nova Scotia.

[Page 2199]

Joining us today here in Nova Scotia with 9,000 of their newest friends after their cruise ship that was headed to the Bahamas got rerouted to Halifax and Sydney, I want John and Jennifer to stand and receive the warm welcome of the House and thank you for all that you do. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome, welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here.

The member must have missed the notice yesterday when I said about long introductions. We will have a talk about that.

THE SPEAKER « » : The Honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, could you please call the Order of Business Public Bills and Orders.

PUBLIC BILLS AND ORDERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Would you please call Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, would you call Bill No. 137.

Bill No. 137 - Making Business Easier Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Service Efficiency.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : It is an honour to rise and open debate at third reading on the Making Business Easier Act. I will park my comments until the end. Thank you.

THE SPEAKER « » : I have got three people standing here.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : I had the chance to talk about some specific concerns and questions I have about this bill yesterday with particular regard to the provisions around mining. As I said, a single-window service delivery type of approach offers quite a bit of promise. We have learned a lot about that over the last 25 years in public administration and I think we probably all know of great experiences that we have all had in that sort of single-window type environment.

[Page 2200]

What I want to make sure is that we are still implementing the recommendations and findings from the Westray inquiry. One of the things that clearly stood out around how government managed mining and regulation at the time was the need to have a diffused regulatory structure.

I am quite aware of the special interest groups that are calling for more streamlined regulations. My research across jurisdictions shows that we are consistent with having labour and environment involved with natural resources in our mining industry. That is absolutely what the Westray inquiry calls for. Perhaps the minister could clarify what the intent is with that single-window approach. I would also like to talk about the move towards recognizing certain sources of information; but really imploring this government to maintain a civil service that is engaged in this discussion, that is tasked with and competent to review these documents, that is given the time in their workday and to be part of the analysis of the evidence.

We keep hearing that we have - this is not whatever that expression is - not the mining industry of old. Part of that is that we have to learn some pretty hard lessons in this province. Westray is one of those and we certainly do not ever want to repeat that. We have the lessons from the Westray inquiry and I want to make sure and hear from the minister about his commitment to maintain those principles.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Fairview-Clayton Park.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto, my apologies.

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : No problem, Speaker. That is the second time that has happened actually, so MLA Hamid and I must look a little bit alike.

I rise today to discuss Bill No. 137, Making Business Easier, obviously a topic I care deeply about. I'm a business owner, and I know how hard it can be to keep businesses going. Sometimes it feels like the deck is, quite honestly, stacked against you.

The fact is, businesses are a part of our communities. They sponsor local teams, they donate to fundraisers, they're gathering spaces for young and old. They give character and vibrancy to our main streets. That feeling you get when you walk into that local coffee shop, and not only do they know your name, but they know how you like your coffee. That's a small business feeling.

[Page 2201]

Nova Scotia would not be the same without wonderful, unique, homegrown businesses that are enriching our lives. So it's good that this bill takes seriously the burden of waiting on permits for businesses. I welcome efforts by this government to streamline and improve this process. It's hard to be jumping through hoops or following difficult bureaucratic pathways when you're just trying to add something special to your local community. I do honestly want to thank the government for that. More reduction in red tape is great. Any support that can make a real difference for these businesses is welcome.

This title, unfortunately, creates a little bit of false expectations. Because this bill isn't actually about making a big difference in small businesses. This will leave businesses to believe that real help is coming from this government, when unfortunately, it's not. The expectation is promising, and someone might think that this will help a local mom and pop shop, who are having trouble just to keep the lights on. However, this bill does little for them.

Or for the nail salons or the shops or the restaurants or the farms or others who are struggling right now. The real focus appears to be on mining, not the businesses that we think of on main street in all of our communities. The fact is, mining companies aside, main street does need our help and it has been wonderful to see the wave of support for local businesses. It's been a true silver lining during a difficult time for businesses as they face tariff uncertainty and rising costs. But there's so much more that we can do.

Here's how I know how hard it is for businesses in Nova Scotia. Since the Premier has taken office, commercial rents have risen by nearly 30 percent. They have risen faster and higher in Nova Scotia that in any other province in this country. Businesses can't absorb this, not without real repercussions. The result is businesses close, they're gone - and even more are on the brink. A commercial rent cap for small businesses would go a long way to save businesses that we love in our communities.

Another way to help would be to help with CAM costs. To explain CAM costs, all commercial rents have a portion of their rents that are called CAM costs - common area maintenance fees. It pulls together all the costs that goes together to running a small business. It includes property tax, the water bills, the internet bills, sometimes when there's a sign change. So everybody sharing in that commercial space splits the bill evenly. Then you get a surprise bill from your landlord, and that surprise bill could put a business under, because you just don't know when they're coming, and you don't know how much they are, and you don't know what they include.

This government could help businesses by requiring transparency around these costs. Being able to plan ahead for these big expenses could make a difference in a small business's life. Massive unexpected costs can put them so far behind, that they never catch up. I hope this government will consider these suggestions since businesses do need our support.

[Page 2202]

There's also, in this bill, a portion of agriculture. This bill has very little to say, but there is some in there, and it's too bad because these farmers in our province are integral - this is integral to their lives. They grow the food we need, they are part of the culture of this province, and I bet quite a few of us will be driving to the Valley this fall, going to pick apples or pick pumpkins. What would this province be without them?

[11:00 a.m.]

They have had an incredibly difficult year, and this summer's drought has left fields dry and animals parched. Farmers have been hauling water to help their animals. Blueberry farmers have yields much smaller than they have had before - it is brutal for such an important industry that relies on exports - and apple farmers are finding their apples to be much smaller.

I've been visiting fruit growers in and around Nova Scotia, and I've heard how much they need help. This bill doesn't deliver on any of that. In order to make this province better for business - really better for business - it needs to be a good starting place. It needs to be a good place for businesses to run. There we go; I got it there.

Right now, Nova Scotians of all walks are struggling with the affordability crisis. Rents are skyrocketing. We calculated how much this year's rent has gone up on the government's watch; it is about $4,400. Power bills have gone up $400 per year for an average family - and on top of that, data breach and reliability issues. Let me tell you, that's pretty big for businesses. Businesses lose valuable opening hours when power goes out, and sometimes it goes out on a beautiful sunny day - unexpected.

I think this government should consider affordability concerns when they are trying to make this province better for businesses - making business easier.

To conclude, I want to thank this government for some parts of this bill. They will make a difference to small, independent businesses, which I'm here for, but I do encourage this government to take the title of this bill seriously and think about how they can actually make business easier for Nova Scotians - for the small and independent retailers and businesses.

I encourage them to make business easier for farmers by taking serious action to support them in the face of this devastating year. Unfortunately, the change that we really needed isn't in this bill.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : I beg leave to make an introduction well timed to the subject of this bill.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

[Page 2203]

LISA LACHANCE « » : In the gallery today, we are joined by Sarah Craig. Sarah Craig is the owner of I Heart Bikes. Maybe you've seen it on the waterfront. It's been there as an important part of creating the wonderful atmosphere we have there for 15 years. Recently, if you haven't checked it out, they have built a new mural called "Joy Rider" that showcases both the joy of cycling and being a female business owner. I would like to welcome Sarah to the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome.

The honourable member for Cumberland North.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I'd like to stand on third reading of Bill No. 137 to add some remarks to this bill.

We all know that businesses need removal of red tape, and I look forward to hearing the minister's comments on this bill. I like to study out the bills, and it has been frustrating because we were given so many pieces of legislation in such a short period of time. Three of the bills were omnibus bills, which all included so many pieces of legislation, including this one.

I am hoping that the minister can explain some of the things that are in the bill. I am sure there is nothing nefarious, but I'm curious because there hasn't been any explanation given. There are a lot of pieces of legislation that are repealed in this bill, and there are probably good reasons why, but I am curious. For example, the Baby Chick Protection Act: Why was that repealed?

On that topic, I want to bring up something. I had so many other bills and so many other questions for Question Period on behalf of the people I represent in Cumberland North and from other Nova Scotians who have contacted me because they weren't getting responses from their government MLAs. Now, because this sitting is so short - only nine days - I'm not going to have an opportunity to ask those questions or table those bills.

One of the things came up from business owners who are farmers in the agricultural industry around chicken farming. One of their concerns is that chicken farmers are excluded from the Nova Scotia Loyal program. The reason that they're being given is that they import the baby chicks. Because the baby chicks are not from Nova Scotia, even though the farmers raise them, the farmers are excluded from the Nova Scotia Loyal program. The chicken farmers are not happy about that. That was one of the things I was going to be asking in Question Period and didn't get a chance to.

When I saw this repealing of the Baby Chick Protection Act, it did trigger a question why. When I read the piece of legislation, it talks about dyeing the eggs and all of that. There's probably a very good reason why it's repealed, but I did want to take that opportunity to raise that concern on behalf of chicken farmers of Nova Scotia. They should be included in the Nova Scotia Loyal program, and I hope that the government will reconsider that decision.

[Page 2204]

There are also many other things, and I want to mention them, considering the title of the bill includes the words "enable economic growth." One of the things that's been brought to my attention by a lot of business owners throughout rural Nova Scotia is the lack of cellphone coverage and the lack of internet coverage. That really hasn't been discussed at all in this Chamber, but I want to make sure it's on the record that this is a big concern to many Nova Scotians, including the people I represent in Cumberland North.

There has been no improvement since I became MLA. In fact, many believe it's gotten worse, and we don't know why that is. Technology is not my area of expertise. Some may be able to explain that reason. I don't know if it's because there are so many more users on the system.

Farmers from the Valley, as well as in our area, have brought this concern to me - that it actually affects their business and is a barrier because a lot of the technology in agriculture and in farming relies on having access to cellphone and internet. Even if you're looking at the safety alarms to let a farmer know if there is a temperature change in their barn or electricity is gone - anything that is innovative and uses technology relies on the farmer and the business owner in agriculture having access to reliable cellphone service. That is not the case for many farmers or many businesspeople in agriculture here in Nova Scotia.

I did want to make sure that's on the record. We need to see investment and improvement in cellphone coverage here in rural Nova Scotia, as well as better access to the internet. It's also a safety concern - a safety issue, as well - when people cannot call 911 in the event of a medical emergency.

A couple other comments I want to make with regards to this bill - I don't see anything in this bill that reflects work being done with other provinces to remove interprovincial barriers. This is something that I've talked about in this Chamber for quite a few years. Given the proximity of Cumberland County to Westmorland County in New Brunswick, our constituents do a lot of work - and our natural business trading partner is New Brunswick, especially southern New Brunswick.

In fact, when I had my own business - one of them was a local food store - I wasn't able to get most of my products from Nova Scotia because of the supply chain. Most companies only delivered as far as Masstown - they didn't come over the Cobequid Pass - so my natural supply chain in Cumberland County was with southern New Brunswick.

It's important that all government departments consider Cumberland County when they are making decisions. When it comes to regulatory barriers, I do ask that the minister take that into consideration. I know my colleague for Cumberland South would know all too well about this, with the businesses in that area of Cumberland County, as well.

[Page 2205]

We'd like to see more removal of barriers between our provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and P.E.I.

I want to mention that like my colleague from Halifax Chebucto did as well, the need for this government to look at enabling economic growth with the people who have been harmed from the drought this summer. Specifically, I want to mention the wild blueberry industry. Again, this was something I was going to be bringing up in Question Period but because we have the shortest sittings in all of Canada, many of us do not have an opportunity to fully bring all of the concerns of the people we represent to this Chamber.

I'm going to tell you - I know the minister did visit some people who are farming with the wild blueberry industry in Cumberland County. Very grateful to the minister for coming to Cumberland and meeting with those individuals, we're very grateful. They are hurting. The blueberries this year, due to the drought were significantly smaller and also the quality was affected because of the lack of rain.

We are hopeful. I know the farmers are hopeful that the government will work with our federal partners. Certainly I have, on behalf of my constituents, reached out to our federal partners. The federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, as well as the federal shadow minister for the Conservative Party of Canada, MP John Barlow. He has actually agreed to come and meet with our farmers here in Cumberland County and throughout Nova Scotia and any other ones who want to meet as well. We're hoping for that same response from our federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food as well.

Our farmers deserve - they work year after year to grow the economy of this province, feeding the people of this province and the world. Speaker, when you look at the exports of wild blueberries in particular, we are world leaders. It is one of our biggest exports, if not the biggest export for Nova Scotia when it comes to food, our wild blueberries.

It's a very significant industry and our farmers are hurting. What they are asking for, and I believe they deserve it, is the same respect that was given to our wine industry a couple of years ago, when there was financial support for them. They deserve to be respected, the same as those grape growers. It's not a competition but I want to make sure that it's on the record of how difficult a time it is right now for many of our fruit growers, including the wild blueberry industry and farmers in Cumberland County.

I want to echo some of the concerns that my colleague from Halifax Chebucto mentioned. When it comes to economic growth, there are so many factors when you are in business. On behalf of all business owners, whether they are building owners or renters, my colleague talked a lot about the common area expenses. The reality is that those expenses are going up because of the increase in commercial property taxes, as well as residential. That is something I do believe the minister responsible for the Property Valuation Services Corporation - really I encourage that department to look closely at their practices.

[Page 2206]

I recently had a landowner contact me, upset because they had an increase in their property taxes, a significant increase. When they asked why, they found out that the Property Valuation Services Corporation had decided that a cellphone tower that had been erected on the property beside them was actually on their property and it wasn't. No one had even asked a question, no one came and spoke with the landowner. Thankfully, after an appeal and several months went by, the person's property taxes were amended.

There's a real confusion and it's probably done on purpose. It's not fair to the consumer, it's not fair to the landowners and property owners in this province. When someone has a complaint, they go to their municipal councillor who says: It's not up to us, it's with the Province. They go to the Province, they go to their MLA who will often say: Go to your municipality.

The reality is that both are at fault. Our municipal partners set the tax rate and the Province assesses the value. Landowners and building owners and property owners deserve a better system, one that's easier to understand and one that communicates more effectively, I believe, with the landowner, and makes sure that assessments are done properly. We've all seen dramatic increases in assessments.

[11:15 a.m.]

Personally, my husband owns a building. We purchased it in 2013, and we paid about $4,000 in commercial property taxes on that building, and now this year, it's over $14,000. The revenue that's coming from that commercial building is less because the businesses in the building are struggling because of the economy since the pandemic, yet the property taxes, in 12 years, have gone from $4,000 annually to over $14,000 annually. I share that as an example because that is what commercial building owners are experiencing right now.

When we look at the name of this bill, I wanted to bring up a couple of these things because when we're looking at economic growth and trying to grow the economy in Nova Scotia, I hope the government is talking to business owners to see what else they need from our government.

I want to echo the importance of improving cellphone coverage in this province.

Because this bill does talk about enabling economic growth and removing regulatory burden, I want to lastly mention one more thing that I have brought up in Question Period earlier last week, and that is for the truckers of the province. There has been no change in helping them with the 80-20 rule that the Premier removed without any consultation with the truckers of this province.

[Page 2207]

I believe that it's unfair; it's disrespectful. They are the backbone of the construction industry throughout Nova Scotia, and they have lost any guarantee of work as well as rate. There hasn't been anything provided to them in writing. They're being told that there will be a guaranteed rate, but that is not really helpful if you don't actually get the work.

We've seen a pattern in the past where sometimes decisions have been made to help people who may be well known to the Premier. Because there has been no good explanation given for the removal of the 80-20 rule, then some people make assumptions because they're trying to figure it out. Everybody's wondering, "Who's behind this? Why were the decisions made?" I know the minister had shared that it violated the Free Trade Agreement. Well, that Free Trade Agreement has been in place for quite a few years.

We have asked for proof, and as of last night when I spoke to some board members, they still have not been provided any proof that the 80-20 rule was in any violation of any procurement laws or any interprovincial barrier laws or legislation. If that is the case, out of respect for these business owners, who have hundreds of thousands of dollars in financial debt, most of them, as their vehicles, their trucks are financed - that kind of information should be provided.

I do question it because, living in Cumberland County, I know full well that trucks have been coming from Chapman Brothers in Prince Edward Island and from trucking companies in southern New Brunswick into Nova Scotia for the last few decades. There's been a great relationship between our fellow provinces.

It's not a valid excuse when the truckers are being told that it's because of interprovincial barriers because they all know each other in the trucking industry in the Maritimes. They all know that those trucking companies have been welcomed in when work is needed and when those trucks are needed in our province.

I did want to make sure that that is on the record, considering this looks like it's going to be our last day here in session. I don't believe those business owners in Nova Scotia - throughout all of rural Nova Scotia - are being shown the respect that they deserve. They have not been given any good reason why the 80-20 rule has been taken from them. It is causing a lot of anxiety, a lot of stress. I hope that all the other rural MLAs here in this Chamber will work on their behalf because they need it. I look forward to hearing the minister's comments on this bill.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Hants East.

[Page 2208]

JOHN A. MACDONALD: Would it be okay to do an introduction?

THE SPEAKER « » : Absolutely.

JOHN A. MACDONALD: Speaker, in the gallery opposite - and she will hit me later - is the lady who a lot of people have said, "Who is she?" That would be my wife, Chantelle, in the back. Yes, she does exist. Thanks, hon. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. We hope you enjoy your time here and at home with the member. (Laughter)

If I recognize the minister, it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Service Efficiency.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, I am pleased to rise to speak on third reading of Bill No. 137.

I know it is on everybody's mind right now - the baby chicks. To address the question from the member for Cumberland North, the Baby Chick Protection Act is being repealed because it is duplicative. I want to assure that under the watch of the Minister of Agriculture, the baby chicks are still protected under the Animal Protection Act.

This bill is about replacing Acts, regulations that are duplicative. This Act is about service efficiency. I want to take an opportunity, first off, to thank Duncan Robertson, a Nova Scotia director of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, who presented at Public Bills.

As many in the House know, Mr. Robertson represented an organization of 4,000 small- and medium-sized businesses, and Mr. Robertson spoke favourably on the bill, outlining that its benefits for businesses will benefit all sizes across all industries. Definitely that is an organization that represents main street.

When speaking to this bill on second reading, I began with what it does to make business easier because I am filled with optimism about our future and the concrete and practical actions this bill takes to help us fulfill our province's tremendous potential. I feel obliged to begin my remarks today with what this bill does not do, to set the record straight.

First, there was talk that things are being rushed. Many members of this House are acutely aware that the pace that government has moved in the past simply isn't good enough. The status quo does not meet the moment. The pace of action within this Chamber must meet the pace of change outside of it; however, acting with urgency does not mean we can't be thoughtful.

[Page 2209]

There was also talk of unintended consequences of the Making Business Easier Act. The Making Business Easier Act has only intended outcomes, eliminating old, outdated, duplicative rules and processes and making it easier for Nova Scotians in businesses to contribute to their communities and grow our economy.

It was also claimed that protections are being compromised. I could not be clearer when I say that every rule and every requirement that protects our workers, that protects our environment, that protects human health, that protects wildlife - these remain firmly in place. Saying or suggesting otherwise is simply untrue.

The Making Business Easier Act builds on the foundations that we have built, enabling our resource sector to flourish, our businesses to succeed, and the creation of good-paying jobs. These are the fundamentals of strong, thriving, and sustainable communities in Nova Scotia, improving and modernizing government so that it reflects today's reality and paves the way for business success. It does not mean we are taking away the protections that we have in place through the Environment Act.

Effective rules and regulations protect us. They protect our environment and they provide clarity to business. A well-functioning and strong regulatory environment is fundamental to a well-functioning, strong, and thriving economy. The only thing this bill takes away is red tape, and we all know red tape costs a lot. It creates confusion, it creates complexity, and it makes the very rules we want and need our residents of this province to follow - red tape makes it harder to understand and follow.

What red tape does not add is value. It's a drain on the economy, productivity, entrepreneurship, and job growth. It's a drain on trade and opportunity. This impacts every Nova Scotian. This bill is an example of how it can be addressed head-on.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all members of this House who support this bill and who support a very positive future for Nova Scotia. By doing so, we have agreed that the status quo isn't good enough. Only by doing things better and differently can we unleash Nova Scotia's tremendous economic potential.

With that, I move to close debate on third reading of Bill No. 137.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 137.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that this bill do pass. Ordered that the title be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

[Page 2210]

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 144 for third reading.

Bill No. 144 - Workers' Compensation Act (amended).

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

HON. NOLAN YOUNG « » : Speaker, I move that Bill No. 144 be now read a third time.

I look forward to hearing dialogue from the other parties here. I'll save my remarks until the end.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

PAUL WOZNEY « » : I won't be long, but I do want to make some remarks here before debate on this bill concludes. I want to remind the House that the NDP have been longtime stalwart advocates for improvements and enhancement to the WCB regime. We're glad to see the government bringing this forward.

Overall, we recognize the value of these changes to the Act that will benefit employers and workers and those in receipt of benefits because they were injured on the job. The NDP will be voting to support the legislation, so I want to be clear about that.

I do want to bring some remarks about a bill that is good as written but that could be even better. Yesterday in Committee of the Whole House, I brought forward a number of amendments. I don't think I framed them as such, but the amendments I brought forward yesterday in Committee of the Whole House were not my own brainchild or something that came to me and I scribbled on a napkin. They sprang from the comprehensive review that took place in 2024 of the WCB regime. They were recommendations that were put forward by people on the panel who represented the interests of workers and those in receipt of benefits.

The amendments I brought forward yesterday were not partisan. They didn't find their origins in the NDP caucus or NDP loyalists. They really sprang from a non-partisan document that took a rigorous look at the WCB regime and proposed changes that would benefit workers and those in receipt of benefits.

I simply raise that to allay any perception on the part of anyone on the government side that those sprang from a place of partisan motivation. Really, we drew on good instruction that sprang from robust consultation, where stakeholders were present and had fulsome opportunity to participate. We know that many of the changes the government has entrenched in the bill, as currently constructed, spring from a similar place. That's one of the reasons why we're prepared to support the legislation; we see the synergy between the report springing from that review in 2024 and what the government has put forward.

[Page 2211]

[11:30 a.m.]

We would like to have seen - and there's still time; that's why I bring it up now. We know last night was fast and furious, and there wasn't a lot of time to caucus and consider what changes might be made. Hopefully over the course of the evening, government may have turned its mind to a number of amendments.

I just want to highlight those. Yesterday I proposed an amendment that would have ended tiered benefits. When workers are found to be unable to return to work, and they require income replacement, the present regime, for the first six months that they're on benefits, awards them 75 percent of their wages as replacement. It's not until they reach the six-month threshold that they achieve 85 percent of benefits. One of the things that has long been a criticism of the Nova Scotia WCB regime is how many workers stay on benefits for a very long time before they return to work.

In our view and in the view of workers who provide input and advocates who speak on behalf of workers, this tiered benefit structure incentivizes workers to remain on benefits far longer than they would have needed to if they received an 85-percent wage replacement rate right off the hop to help alleviate some of the pressures that build up when they're receiving significantly less income, receiving benefits from WCB, than if they were working. We think that not adopting that amendment maintains a structural barrier to greater efficiency of costs and return to work.

We put forward an amendment that would have expanded the salary range of workers eligible for coverage. Right now, workers making up to $85,000 are eligible for WCB coverage. We proposed an amendment that would have seen that cap rise to $120,000. That's notable because there are two impacts here. Workers who make more than $85,000 a year don't enjoy the protection of WCB. That means that some employers who employ higher-wage employees don't offer them any protection for injury in the workplace, which is problematic. That results in - when those people are injured in the workplace, the fiscal burden of their injury is borne exclusively by the public health care system rather than compensated by WCB coverage. It also means that many employers of higher-wage earners, if as good employers they want to provide protection for higher-wage employees, have to turn to the private sector for third-party coverage, which is not cheap.

In reality, WCB is by far the more cost effective and in many cases the more comprehensive coverage for higher-wage earners. This amendment would have given employers access to a less-costly way to protect higher-wage employees. It would have had a double benefit of drawing in an additional pool of employers whose premiums would help alleviate the cost of premiums to the current slate of employers.

[Page 2212]

We know that one of the other major criticisms of WCB is that the premiums employers pay to provide this coverage to their workers are the highest in the country. We think that was a constructive amendment that would have had demonstrable benefits not only for workers but also for employers, at a time when we know that businesses are struggling under the pressures of tariffs and all that kind of stuff. This is a meaningful step that government could still take before this is passed to provide some relief to employers while enhancing coverage for workers.

I brought forward an amendment to expand the range of workers who would enjoy WCB coverage. Even though there has been recent expansion - which we applaud - of coverage under the WCB regime, there remain in Nova Scotia 120,000 workers who are still outside of WCB protection. The amendment that I introduced is consistent with WCB regimes in other parts of the country where they have much higher coverage rates, and takes into consideration the fiscal impact of WCB coverage on small employers whose enterprises employ three or fewer workers. This would have the impact - it would open the door to the further expansion of WCB coverage - 220,000 Nova Scotians who currently are unprotected against workplace injury in the province.

We draw to the attention of the minister - I mentioned this in sort of personal conversation about this bill. I have raised it a couple of times on the floor of the House. As a matter of record, I want to say, again, that some of the improvements, enhancements, and benefits, which we applaud - that is a positive thing - the implementation date for the enhancement of those benefits is still far out in the future. It is early 2027.

We have a lot of workers currently in receipt of benefits whom those changes will not help. At a time that cost pressures are immense, we have heard myriad government-side MLAs stand and recognize that this government understands the pressures that Nova Scotians are facing as it relates to cost of living delay the implementation of these benefit enhancements. These folks are particularly vulnerable. They are not able to work, and they are certainly not as able as healthy Nova Scotians to find other income streams through other work while they are in receipt of benefits to offset those cost pressures.

If there is any way possible, even an implementation date that falls several months ahead of early 2027 would be a timely and much-needed relief. It would signal the government's recognition that injured workers are particularly vulnerable at this time and taking every action possible to alleviate the pressures that they feel at a time when their benefits represent fixed income with modest changes as it relates to indexing. It puts them in a better position to take care of their financial obligations at a time they are simply not able to do the work that they love and that they are skilled and able to do.

[Page 2213]

I do want to flag again that the government is writing into law its ability to exclude itself from the definition of employer for the purposes of the WCB Act. Again, in conversation with the minister and on the staff side of things, I think I have a sense of the rationale for this. But I do hope that - up to this point in the process, the minister has not risen to explain the rationale for this change. I would urge the minister - workers in Nova Scotia and workers' advocates in Nova Scotia have seen this government legislate itself unprecedented powers over workers. In the spring sitting of the House, this government legislated itself the ability to bypass protections for workers under the Labour Standards Code from termination with just-cause principles. Now, the government can terminate public employees without just cause.

People, workers and workers' rights advocates, have reason to be concerned about what removing or excluding itself from the definition of employer from a regime like WCB - which is supposed to support workers and upon which a significant number of government employees rely for coverage and for injury in the workplace - would do. I would strongly encourage the minister to stand at this phase and be clear about why this exception is being written into law. I recognize that there can be legitimate explanations for exceptions, and I heartily encourage the minister to be clear about that.

That said, even with the reasons that I am privy to, I am concerned that the scope of this language is a narrow exception that can be justified by the reasons I have received, but the exception that the government is writing itself - instead of it being, "If you need an exception three inches wide, why legislate one that is three miles wide?" That wide latitude that the government enjoys - because when this legislation passes, as currently constituted - the government has taken a position in WCB hearings and appeals that signals the government believes it is not the same as other employers and has the power to deprive or claw back WCB benefits that workers are found to deserve, be entitled to, and require.

The government has been unsuccessful in its appeals of those decisions. We worry that we will see the government make a pattern of clawing back benefits from workers that the WCB says are warranted after diligence and due process. I would encourage the minister to legislate an exception for the government that's only as wide as is necessary, for the narrow reason that's been shared with me, rather than give itself wide undefined latitude that could be used for purposes that would harm workers who need WCB benefits at a time that they're unable to work.

The last thing I want to flag is the removal of the duty of a hospital to report to the Labour Board when a worker has died in the workplace. I want to thank the minister. In the conversation we've had outside the formal debate, he has expressed that the requirement of the employer to report a workplace death exists in other statutes rather than this one. I recognize that, but I'm concerned about the removal of what serves as a failsafe, where a worker's death is reported in a timely way to the Labour Board.

[Page 2214]

I don't think it comes as a surprise to anybody in this House that if a worker dies on the job, the potential liability to an employer, not only by a prosecution under the Westray Law if there's reasonable cause and sound evidence that they are guilty of worker negligence resulting in death under the Westray Law - there's that law.

But I would argue that the more significant liability is the one that an employer would be subject to through civil court - through litigation by the victim's family or estate. It is entirely feasible that, without the hospital's requirement to report the death of a worker to the Labour Board, an employer would look at the law, and look at the financial liability of civil litigation, and decide that the penalty for breaking the law - and slow roll the reporting of a worker death to the Labour Board. That is the lesser cost - a significantly lesser cost to the employer than insulating itself against civil litigation and the liability that might come from an award in a civil litigation case.

I want to flag again that even though we have the Westray Law, we often talk about creating legislation that signals to potential offenders the cost of the actions should you choose to take them. We hear that all the time from "get tough on crime" advocates. The fact is that the Westray Law, which is intended to serve as a deterrent, ultimately hasn't stemmed the tide of worker deaths in this province. Since it was passed 21 years ago, Nova Scotia is a runaway national leader in workplace deaths. Despite the Westray Law, we have never yet successfully prosecuted a workplace death in Nova Scotia - and that's with the dual duty to report. Yes, I recognize that in another statute the employer has a duty to report, and up until now, a hospital where a worker goes to be treated, when they die on the job, they also have a duty to report. With those dual provisions, we haven't yet prosecuted successfully a worker death in this province.

[11:45 a.m.]

I think removing the failsafe at this time is unwise, especially when we know - it may be cheaper. It may be less punitive, less harmful to the interest of an employer to break the law or breach the law in their duty to report a worker death, and the Labour Board may go a substantial period of time without hearing about that death. If we remove this requirement of the hospital, the Labour Board may not hear about a worker death until the time that it sorts the employer's purpose - after they've properly armed themselves against litigation - to notify the Labour Board and suffer the much more modest penalty that exists in that statute.

Those are changes. Again, I want to say that overall, despite these amendments we see the value of this legislation. We will support the legislation, but I want to highlight that what's coming forward here is a solid double instead of being the homerun that it could be if these amendments and deletions were incorporated into the legislation that passes here in the House.

[Page 2215]

I offer this in the spirit of good faith. I offer this in a spirit of providing feedback and input that reflects robust consultation with stakeholders in an effort to frame legislation that works for Nova Scotians, that's good for businesses, and that's good for workers and those who are injured in the workplace.

With that, Speaker, I thank you for this time to bring remarks and take my seat.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I'm going to provide just a few comments. I'm happy to stand on my feet and vote again today on the legislation.

We support this bill. Overall, the legislation moves the Workers' Compensation Board in the right direction. It modernizes the Acts. It adjusts definitions and deadlines and makes practical updates that will benefit Nova Scotians. Indexing benefits to inflation makes sense. It will help workers who are injured on the job maintain a standard of living.

Extending cancer coverage to more firefighters is another strong, positive change that we fully support. These individuals put themselves at risk for us and they deserve that protection. Expanding the death benefit payments beyond just the worker's spouse recognizes the diversity of families today. WCB taking responsibility for travel costs is a practical step that eases the burden for injured workers. There are some positives.

I will say that, that said, Clause 1(b) raises some unanswered questions about why the Province would want to opt out of workers' compensation. No employer should be allowed to exempt themselves from these protections, in our opinion. This carve-out creates uncertainty and raises questions about the fairness and reliability of the system. I would argue what my colleague just said. This would be an opportunity for some clarity to come from the government about why they want to do that - why they want to exclude themselves.

Overall we are supportive of the bill. We're happy to be here to vote on the legislation again today.

THE SPEAKER « » : If I recognize the minister, it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

HON. NOLAN YOUNG « » : I am pleased to rise once again to speak to Bill No. 144, the amendments to the Workers' Compensation Act.

This legislation will strengthen Nova Scotia's workers' compensation system. It means better support for injured workers and their families, clearer processes for employees, and a system that remains fair and sustainable into the future.

[Page 2216]

I want to thank my colleagues in this House for the debate, and the stakeholders across this province. I appreciate the questions, the feedback, and also the constructive engagement through this process. Your contributions have helped strengthen the discussion and ensured that Nova Scotians' voices are reflected in this work.

I'd also like to take a moment to address some of the concerns that have been raised. To be clear, government has no intention of opting out of WCB coverage for provincial employees. In fact, the Province is required to provide benefits and injury pay to its employees if they're injured or become ill at work. This is also outlined in the general civil service regulations as well as collective agreements.

To one of the amendments that the member was talking about: Part of the reason for the change has to do with the way the taxes are calculated for preferential tax treatment, and in some cases, workers could actually end up taking more home than their net pay.

This legislation also ensures the obligations continue to be met fairly and how they were intended. When it comes to workplace fatalities, I want to be clear - employers are legally required to report workplace fatalities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. This requirement has not changed.

Speaker, this is a bill in progress, and our work will not stop here. We will continue to look for ways to strengthen the workers' compensation system for workers, for families, and employers for now and for generations to come. Thank you.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

NOLAN YOUNG « » : With that, I move to close debate on third reading of Bill No. 144.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 144.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that the bill do pass. Ordered the title be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 149.

[Page 2217]

Bill No. 149 - Powering the Offshore Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Speaker, I move that Bill No. 149 be now read a third time. I will have comments, but what I would like to do is allow colleagues to speak to the bill for the third time, and then I'll get up and say those comments at that point.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : I rise today to talk about the Powering the Offshore Act, and I want to put this bill into context.

When I hear from Nova Scotian families, I hear a clear, consistent message: They want clean, affordable, and reliable electricity. They also want good jobs and a strong economy with powerful paycheques that can help pay those bills, so when we talk about offshore wind, we're not simply talking about a piece of legislation. We are debating what kind of energy system we want to build for the next 50 years.

Will it be one that delivers lower power bills, good new jobs, and direct benefits for Nova Scotians, or will we miss that opportunity? Will we be stuck on burning expensive coal while the rest of the world wants to buy clean energy? Even worse, will we seize this opportunity but let the benefits of our enormous offshore wealth flow out of the province to a small number of private shareholders? That is the fundamental question posed by Wind West, which this legislature is supposedly about.

The government has presented this act as a bold step toward Wind West and a grand vision for a utility-scale, offshore wind industry, but when you read the text, it's clear that this bill is little more than housekeeping. It updates outdated references, clarifies some property tax rules, and tweaks some existing frameworks.

What it does not do is answer the central question: How will offshore wind be developed in a way that ensures that Nova Scotians directly benefit? Where is the strategy for ensuring lower power bills and ensuring that the revenues from this natural resource well stay here in Nova Scotia and deliver for Nova Scotians?

It is undisputed that Nova Scotia has some of the strongest wind speeds in the world - some Nova Scotians, too, but anyway. These rival the North Sea, where countries like Denmark, the U.K., Germany, and the Netherlands have all developed successful offshore wind industries.

I want to focus for a minute on Denmark because I believe that is the jurisdiction that did it right and one that we can learn from. Denmark is home to two of the top five wind turbine manufacturers in the world: the world's largest wind turbine rotor blade manufacturer and the world's largest developer of offshore wind, Ørsted. Ørsted is a majority share, state-owned company that alone has developed 30 percent of the total global offshore wind capacity outside of China. The sector supports more than 35,000 direct and indirect jobs. In 2020, Denmark met 48 percent of its domestic electricity supply needs with wind-generated electricity. That's the highest share in the world.

[Page 2218]

I encourage all members to read about the Danish success story. Denmark attributes its success to three principles:

(1)   offshore wind turbines are manufactured by Danish companies established through active, government-led industrial policy support;

(2)   community and public ownership of wind energy built lasting and broad-based support for the wind power development; and

(3)   the home market was used as a springboard for building export power.

The early history of wind development in Denmark is most similar to prior efforts for renewables development in this province, which was kickstarted by the former NDP Government. When in government, the NDP established the pioneering Community Feed-In Tariff Program, or COMFIT. COMFIT offered a guaranteed, fixed purchase price for reliable electricity. This helped to de-risk investment in renewable power and improve its business case.

The NDP established Nova Scotia's first renewable energy targets by requiring Nova Scotia Power to buy renewables - up to 40 percent of its portfolio by 2020 - but from the very beginning, we focused on delivering the benefits of energy ownership directly to Nova Scotians. Eligibility for COMFIT focused on small-scale renewable projects owned by local entities, such as municipalities, Mi'kmaq bands, co-ops, not-for-profits, and universities.

Denmark's approach is similar. For example, a 2009 Danish law requires that at least a 20 percent ownership stake for new wind projects must be community-owned, and new offshore wind licence options still retain this 20 percent public sector equity stake. More than half of the total existing installed wind capacity in Denmark contains a citizen ownership model, whether it be a co-op, a state-owned enterprise, or a local government.

What concerns me is that I don't see much of the Danish success story in what this province is proposing on Wind West and in this bill. I don't see a plan or talk of an industrial strategy for Nova Scotia to participate in the valuable supply chains involved with manufacturing wind turbines. I don't see a plan for a significant role for government equity in this project to derive public benefit directly for the people of Nova Scotia. I don't see a focus on how we can use more clean energy at home to create a bigger initial domestic market, secure the first private investors, and eventually build export power.

[Page 2219]

What this government has proposed and outlined in the strategic plan it recently published is for the project to be entirely led by the private sector, with the Province content to collect a mere 4 percent royalty. Four cents on the dollar for the people of Nova Scotia is a pitiful return on the enormous energy wealth sitting just off our coast.

[12:00 p.m.]

The Province's strategic plan envisions that an experienced private sector proponent will step forward with the relevant experience in building interprovincial electricity transmission infrastructure. Guess who that might be? Which private sector company in this province has experience building interprovincial electricity grid infrastructure? I can only think of one because it's a monopoly. It's Nova Scotia Power, a company that this government has let raise the power bills of the average Nova Scotia family by $400 per year and who is on track to make bills even more expensive.

Let me put this in perspective. As a part of this project, the Province is aiming to issue five gigawatts of offshore wind licences by 2030. That's more power than Nova Scotia will ever need, given we consume about half of that every year. One study published by Dalhousie University, which I will table, indicates what kind of export revenues we could expect if the Province exported that surplus energy. We are talking about annual export revenues of over $1 billion a year. Does this government have a plan to ensure that Nova Scotians see part of that money? Maybe - this is just an idea - through lower power bills? I don't think so. At least we haven't heard about it.

What concerns me most is that this government seems to have absolutely zero regard over whether Nova Scotians can afford to heat their homes this winter. We've seen this government cut 46,000 people from the Heating Assistance Rebate Program, or HARP, taking $600 out of their pockets, and a further $200 out of the pockets of Nova Scotians who still remain eligible. It's shameful. There are low-income families that this money is being ripped away from. I'll say it frankly; it is cruel and it should be reversed. It is cruel what this government has done to the HARP program and to the people who rely on it.

Forty-three percent of Nova Scotians are living in energy poverty. Forty-three percent. Quite frankly, I look at that number and I think: We have a crisis on our hands. Clearly, this government will look at that number and think: How can we make this worse? What this legislation is missing is a focus on how the provincial government can play a role in making the lives of Nova Scotians more affordable. When I look at this legislation, I think it truly speaks to this government's priorities.

[Page 2220]

There is no plan to lower power bills immediately, as we've proposed. There is no plan to stop Nova Scotia Power from passing on the cost of the industrial carbon tax to ratepayers. There's no plan to cut power bills by getting off of expensive coal faster. In fact, this government's plan for Wind West even somehow envisions a future where cheap renewables somehow increase power bills, a feat that no other jurisdiction has ever accomplished.

Let's look for a moment at the cost of energy that this government is saying offshore wind will cost those who buy it, including Nova Scotians. The levelized cost of energy is a metric that determines the total lifetime cost of building and operating a power generation system expressed as a cost per unit of energy produced, such as dollars per kilowatt hour. According to this Province's Wind West strategic plan, the levelized cost of energy that the Premier is pitching to Ottawa is $240 per kilowatt hour. That is enormously high. It has already led some CBC journalists to question whether Wind West will drive up power bills. That is, of course, ridiculous.

I'll table an alternative estimate of the cost of offshore energy from the same sites the Province has identified as part of Wind West from the expert Danish consulting firm Aegir Insights. They find that the same sites have a levelized cost of energy of $65 to $90 per kilowatt hour. How has the Province managed to more than double these independent estimates from credible experts?

This evidence all leads me to believe that this government's approach to energy is misguided. That is reflected in this bill. First, the government has chosen to ignore the best practices of leading jurisdictions. Second, this government does not have a plan for ensuring Nova Scotians benefit on the enormous energy wealth off our coast, and third, I see a complete disregard from this government of energy affordability.

Nova Scotians can't wait any longer for the changes they need. They need lower power bills not a rate hike. They need the 10 percent power bill rebate we are also proposing. They need the $400 back, the average amount by which the family's bill has increased since 2021. We all deserve a Nova Scotia Power that works for us, one with clean, reliable energy and a power bill that is affordable. And we all deserve to benefit from the enormous energy wealth off our coast. All of this, this bill fails to do. With those words, I will table the documents I quoted from and take my seat. Thank you.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : I had spoken on second reading on this with a number of questions I was hoping the minister would answer when he closed debate or introduced third reading. We did not get those, but they were really around industrial readiness, board upgrades they required, market certainty, risk sharing. There is not a lot to critique in the bill. We will support it because there really isn't anything substantial to debate. It did reference some of the international experience in this, and I think at least my colleague was listening because she mentioned Denmark quite a bit. They did a lot of positive things in the space.

[Page 2221]

So, we are still optimistic but concerned. I think the bill could provide more certainty to investors, and it does leave concerns on what I would classify as stranded assets in not having the transmission. That's the number one thing we need to focus on is building the transmission. That is what we know. The federal government - the Carney government but also the Trudeau government previously - had multiple billions on the table to invest in that transmission, whether it is on land or subsea. We know that the federal government was interested in offshore as was the Province, so that it was bidirectional and electrons could be sent to integrate our grid, to hopefully eventually have a national grid across the system. But experts know that starts in Atlantic Canada. The stars are aligning in terms of priority, and I think everyone agrees that we need to start moving.

We submit that this should have started long ago in terms of the transmission side. We still think that going out for bids without some certainty on the funding that goes into the transmission - getting it to tide - is problematic when we see companies - my colleague mentioned the biggest, Ørsted, which actually won a contract - I think it was in the U.K. After they won the contract, they pulled out. That was due to escalating costs, inflation, supply chain issues. In Nova Scotia, we had the same thing happen. That was the minister's reason for why we lost four out of the six contracts that were awarded for onshore wind. So, if the Province is not ready to manage tenders with onshore wind that are much smaller scale, much less complex, we have concerns about the management of the offshore.

We have concerns when we know the Mersey River Wind project was delayed from permitting through the bureaucracy of the Province of Nova Scotia, and that fees went up to get certain permits for Crown land access for onshore wind. We can't have those bottlenecks with something of this magnitude.

We could do things like working on those upgrades that have funding available, federal funding and even some provincial funding. We would agree with that.

I mentioned that the sequencing is problematic. The majority of what is going out in the first couple of rounds is a floating concept that really has not been proven to be cost-effective yet. We would prefer in our caucus to start with some of the more cost-effective fixes. So, I would like the minister to comment on why the first tranches have been sent out for mostly floating, and if their cost estimates really incorporate the much more expensive floating concept, which has much higher operating and maintenance expenses associated with it, and therefore are more expensive for ratepayers and customers.

We still have the question in terms of the conversation with these markets - with Ontario, Quebec, and New England. They were mentioned as markets just waiting for our energy. How does that line up with these markets building some of their own transmission for onshore wind and other cost-effective wind.

[Page 2222]

I just wanted to reiterate my questions to the minister on providing that certainty around markets, grid infrastructure, ports, and risk assessments on looking at how we learn from Germany and other places that didn't get any bids in their last auction.

I do disagree with the concept that my colleague is advocating for in the NDP, going back to the days of a feed-in tariff program and saying that that's the way forward. We know that the NDP's contracts that went out - this is actually double the cost of the way to do it from a competitive perspective. They were looking at 13 cents or 14 cents per kilowatt hour. That is well above market rate. A lot of these were built in far-off rural communities where it was very expensive to build the transmission to get out to them. Ratepayers are paying the difference on that. That is part of why power rates are higher. The public didn't want it and it gave wind a bad name in the province to start.

We learned from other places like Saskatchewan and Alberta to start a more competitive process. Please don't go down the line of a guaranteed feed-in tariff at a high fixed price that's well above the wholesale market. That would be my request.

We are still paying for the NDP projects that were guaranteed well above market for 20 years, which is why we did cancel the COMFIT program and we brought in a competitive process for 10 percent of the grid that the government luckily followed through with to tender 307 megawatts of wind at 5 cents or 6 cents a kilowatt hour - half the price of what the NDP did then and seemingly is advocating to do again.

That's why competition is so important. I do believe starting with fixed wind on the offshore is important, one third of the cost generally compared to the floating concept which is the majority - correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that a lot of the sites we're looking at is the floating concept.

I would rather see an incremental approach, build up the transmission, give certainty to investors, protect ratepayers, and start moving forward with this as fast as we can, start getting the transmission infrastructure built with the support of the federal government.

Supportive of the Act, cautiously supportive of the direction. Lessons need to be learned from the slowdown of the onshore. Hopefully, we have some discussions and people on the ground already in markets ready to buy this power that will be supposedly onstream by 2053. It's a great opportunity for the province. Our caucus is obviously supportive of renewable energy. We have been talking about it for a long time, and we look forward to seeing some projects go out to bid and the infrastructure built to hopefully support Nova Scotians and support ratepayers in the long run.

THE SPEAKER « » : If I recognize the minister, it will be to close the debate.

[Page 2223]

The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : I will just say a few words about this bill. This is an important bill, Speaker. Our government has been working tirelessly to transform our electricity system. In every single session of the Legislature, we have made changes to modernize the system, to make it greener, to make it more secure, to make it more competitive, to make it more accountable. We're doing that work over a constantly changing landscape in the energy sector, and we're watching for every opportunity. We're using our policy levers to put Nova Scotians first in terms of new jobs, investment, and affordability.

There are some truly outstanding opportunities for Nova Scotians as we move to clean energy. Offshore wind is an absolute game-changer for our people and our province, and we have the potential for more than 60 gigawatts of clean energy from this offshore natural resource. We're on the verge for our first call for bids for licence, parcels, and our designated offshore wind energy areas. Developers are chomping at the bit to get started.

[12:15 p.m.]

With our Premier's leadership, we advanced Wind West as a nation-building project to move that energy to markets. Prime Minister Carney has signalled his support for it, and we look forward to nailing down what that looks like.

The offshore wind development plus transmission work that will happen under Wind West is going to attract billions of dollars of investment to Nova Scotia and create thousands of jobs for Nova Scotians. We want to make sure we keep all doors open and all the opportunities that come from developing this powerful natural resource open, as well.

Wind West is going to export the vast majority of that energy, but there may be some opportunity for domestic use. That's why we're making changes to the Electricity Act to allow the department to issue power-purchase agreements for offshore wind. That shows developers and investors that we are willing the play ball, and it provides long-term stability, support, and certainty for investment in this new industry.

The prospect of offshore wind is incredibly exciting. The advances in onshore wind are equally exciting. Just a couple of weeks ago, Benjamins Mill announced that their turbines are up, and they're moving into the commissioning phase. Nova Scotians will soon be tapping into that clean energy, and there is lots more to come. Onshore wind is our primary source of clean energy to green the grid and bring jobs and other economic benefits to Nova Scotians.

We're securing that wind through procurements. Right now, we've engaged a procurement administrator to do that for us. That task will move to the Independent Energy System Operator once they are fully ramped up. When a project is successful in a procurement, it gets a power-purchase agreement to sell energy to Nova Scotia Power. That energy we procure is for the benefit of all ratepayers.

[Page 2224]

All these changes keep us moving forward on a path to clean energy and to greater prosperity for Nova Scotians. This path brings good-paying jobs for our people. It brings new investment into our communities. It sets us up to be more independent and less reliant on energy from other places. That will help us stabilize power rates. It's one of the many things we're doing to protect the ratepayers of Nova Scotia.

With offshore wind, the path we've chosen brings the promise of amplifying all these benefits for all Nova Scotians. It is the right path for Nova Scotia, and we're moving full steam ahead.

With those words, I move to close debate on Bill No. 149.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 149.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that this bill do pass. Ordered that the title be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 150.

Bill No. 150 - Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : Speaker, I move that Bill No. 150 be now read a third time.

I do have comments, but I will await debate, and I'll make those comments following that.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Fairview-Clayton Park.

LINA HAMID « » : Speaker, the introduction of Bill No. 150, a bill that fundamentally weakens the public's ability to access government information, is a clear betrayal of the Premier's honestly once-powerful statements while in Opposition. The contradiction is stark. The principles that were once championed are actively being eroded by the legislation introduced by this government.

[Page 2225]

The most glaring contradiction lies in the power of the Information and Privacy Commissioner. I will give some quotes here. "I'm giving the commissioner power," the Premier has once said. "We will have the courage to be held accountable by the people by giving the Privacy Commissioner order-making powers."

Bill No. 150 fails to grant the commissioner order-making powers. Public bodies remain free to ignore the commissioner's findings and recommendations, as they have always done.

The Premier not only promised to strengthen this office but even successfully sued the former government after they ignored a commissioner's recommendation. That experience should have proved that recommendations without teeth are meaningless.

By refusing to include this essential power in Bill No. 150, this government is deliberately retaining the very system of non-accountability the Premier once fought against. The government's Bill No. 150 contains specific clauses that make the government less accessible and harder to hold to account.

Here is another quote that I think is especially good, considering how outrageously short and rushed this session has been: "The government doesn't want to be here. This is a government that doesn't like to be held accountable." Bill No. 150 removes the word "fully" from the existing Act's reference, to making public bodies fully accountable. This signals a legislative intent to reduce and not increase accountability.

On transparency: The Premier has previous said, "What is there to hide?" Bill No. 150 extends the timeline for public bodies to respond to access-to-information requests, changing the deadline from 30 calendar days to 30 business days. This significantly delays the release of public records, effectively slowing down accountability and public scrutiny.

On the public's right to information: This was implicitly supported by suing the government for withholding documents. Bill No. 150 deletes a core section of the existing Act that states the purpose is to release all government information with limited and specific exceptions. Removing this key interpretive section makes it easier for public bodies to deny requests.

The legislative changes in Bill No. 150 are not simply administrative adjustments. They are a systematic scaling back of the access-to-information regime in Nova Scotia. They represent a clear and calculated move to consolidate power and create distance between the government and the public it serves. Again, the Premier has once asked, "What's there to hide?" Well, with Bill No. 150 this government has provided the answer. The mechanism of their own accountability.

[Page 2226]

This bill does not modernize transparency. It legislates a return to the very secrecy the Premier campaigned against. "Nova Scotians deserve the courage to be held accountable," as the Premier has once said. This bill delivers only caution and control. I will end with one final quote:

If we look at the recent history of this province, for anyone to say we don't need an officer who would be responsible for accountability and actually helpful to the governing Party, a helpful set of eyes to look at an analysis and make suggestions to mistakes before they are made - anyone who wouldn't stand and say we would like that, we would welcome that guidance, well, I think that speaks for itself.

I think that speaks, and we are seeing that attitude manifest itself in many ways. It is clearly on display here for all Nova Scotians to see.

THE SPEAKER « » : I ask that the honourable member table the quotes.

The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I rise to speak on Bill No. 150. As we know, it's been more than 25 years since the original FOIPOP Act was introduced. Technology has transformed and the ways that government uses data has changed as well, and the expectations of Nova Scotians have grown.

There are parts of this bill that we support. The decision to make the Information and Privacy Commission Officer in the House of Assembly is a step in the right direction. It gives the office some more independence, credibility, and more authority to speak, no matter who forms government.

We also welcome the stronger breach notification rules. Nova Scotians deserve to know when their personal information has been compromised. We saw it this summer - the impact of privacy breaches - the impact that we had from Nova Scotia Power and the impact our offices have seen trying to deal with families who were impacted. We believe this is an important step and requiring public bodies to keep personal data in Canada unless specifically permitted is a necessary safeguard in an era where cybersecurity threats are real and growing.

Speaker, progress in one area doesn't excuse retreat in another. One of the most troubling parts of this bill is the decision to lengthen the timelines for the government to respond to access to information requests. This was an amendment that we put forward, to remove the terminology around business days that the government put in, which is going to increase the time it takes to receive information back by about 30 percent.

[Page 2227]

I say that because trust in government is already fragile and Nova Scotians need more time to access the information, not less.

The government has put forward - access delayed too often is access denied. Under this law FOIPOP will take 30 percent longer. We wanted to make sure that we put that on the record. This is going to add more time for people looking for information from the government. With that, Speaker, I will take my seat. Thank you.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Armdale.

ROD WILSON « » : Speaker, I have some questions about this. My first question is, why? I am trying to figure out what the intention is of this change. I hope the minister could speak to that because I generally don't know what is the accomplishment here. The commissioner has no more authority. I am not suggesting that authority should be a blame and shame. There's extension of the response time. Anybody who has used FOIPOP knows that those deadlines often aren't met.

I am trying to figure out what is the problem here that the amendment, the change, is trying to solve and how is the public better served. Most people are very reluctant to go to FOIPOP, it takes some determination.

Another thing that's a barrier, like it or not, is the appeal process. The appeal process is daunting to a lot of people. I don't see any improvements to the public, from either a customer service point of view or also to access to information.

I think most people respect the office and I don't believe it's being abused. I do think people are concerned. As my colleague spoke; where is my information going? Who has access to it?

I'm not sure what's trying to be addressed here and whether the changes put forward are going to have any improvement in either customer service or trust in FOIPOP. Trust is essential around information.

If the minister could speak to me about what is the goal here and how will the outcomes be measured?

THE SPEAKER « » : If I am to recognize the honourable Minister of Justice it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : I am so pleased to be speaking today to an Act which delivers a long-overdue update that will modernize and strengthen Nova Scotia's access and privacy laws. The last question posed, which I greatly appreciate and which is really the theme of what I'm going to say is, why?

[Page 2228]

Let me put this in context to start. The last time our information and privacy regime was updated, BlackBerry smartphones were entering the market, the online game EverQuest was newly launched. USB flash drives were a new thing, Napster was just getting started and we were all worried about Y2K.

This update has been a long time coming and the information landscape that we live within and work within has changed seismically since that time. This bill is a modernization and a strengthening that responds to those changing times. I appreciate the comments of the honourable member for Sydney-Membertou reflecting on the elements of this which they are in support of.

There are really important pieces in this bill. The bill enhances the role of the Information and Privacy Commission and Officer of the Legislature, ensuring independence and accountability. It also expands privacy oversight to municipalities and villages and that's really important, that is new for us, creating fairness and consistency across the province.

New provisions relating to notification of breaches exist. Every public body will now have a privacy policy and conduct privacy assessments when designed new programs or system, helping to prevent issues before they arise.

[12:30 p.m.]

To support this work, we conducted extensive consultation and considered more than a hundred submissions from media, Opposition, municipalities, government staff, and Nova Scotians, and 149 recommendations from the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner.

Let me be candid: There is not clear consensus. We heard from media, who quite rightfully, in our free and democratic society, push for the most access to information. I appreciate that that's the role that they take. We heard from municipalities. The focus of the municipalities is their local operations, and they legitimately have questions about their ability to comply, how they will shift to these new requirements, and how they will be able to participate in the timelines that are provided.

We heard from department staff. They have deep experience and expertise in the very real ways and vulnerabilities of individuals and systems. Their insight is incredibly important. We heard from individual Nova Scotians, who have their own unique experiences.

[Page 2229]

Every single one of these perspectives is valuable and important, but there is no way to reconcile them all. Let me be clear: There is no possible version of this bill that will make everyone happy, but that's no reason not to act. This bill reflects and strikes a balance across those many different perspectives.

I want to take a moment now to address the questions - the question of why, and then the two particular questions that have come up. That's the question of order-making power for the Information and Privacy Commissioner, and the purpose. I will acknowledge that, yes, absolutely, some did request that we make order-making power. We appreciate and respect that position. But the truth is, like all of the other provisions of this bill, there is not clear consensus on whether order-making power should be given.

So how did we chart the path? We did it by considering the principles and values that we are sworn to uphold. In this bill, transparency is one of the foundational principles, and access to information is the key mechanism for ensuring that that particular principle is upheld. I greatly respect the role of the Information and Privacy Commissioner, who holds bodies accountable to our obligations to both privacy and information access. But let's be clear: Transparency is not the only core value that we as government must uphold.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner is one of many institutions that, acting in balance, ensures government is accountable. There are many other institutions, equally important considerations, that must be balanced. For example, the Auditor General holds us fiscally accountable - the ways we spend money and the value we get for Nova Scotians. The Ombudsman holds us accountable in the delivery of government services. The Human Rights Commission holds us accountable in the preservation and support of human rights.

What of the safety and security of Nova Scotians and our systems? Our independent policing agencies have a vital role in that, but in addition, responsibility for the safety and security for citizens is held by ministers. For example, the Ministers of Emergency Management and Labour, Skills and Immigration share responsibility for public safety. The Minister of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions has responsibility for security support services and risk management. The Attorney General and Minister of Justice is responsible for the lawful administration of public affairs and justice, the preservation of peace, and the prevention of crime. Those are just a few examples of the responsibilities that we hold under legislative authority.

What does that mean? It means we personally swear an oath of office: I swear that I will diligently and faithfully perform the duties of these offices, while I hold the same, to the best of my ability. It means that we make decisions about policy, expenditures, and operations in our departments that have impacts on all Nova Scotians. It means that when a decision is questioned or challenged, the minister of the responsible department is identified in that lawsuit.

[Page 2230]

While access to information and the preservation of privacy are incredibly important, they must be taken in balance with all of our values and the responsibilities that we hold. This legislation aims to strike that balance, allowing the Information and Privacy Commissioner to fulfill his role in balance with the other institutions while still allowing ministers responsible for safety and security of Nova Scotians to do our due diligence to address risks that disclosure of information might pose to Nova Scotians and our province.

Speaker, quite simply, that is why we did not include order-making power, and that is why the purpose has been amended: to give effect to that important balance. But it's also important to remember that our amendments have built-in accountability measures. Courts hold us all legally accountable, ensuring that our decisions are lawful in accordance with the laws of Nova Scotia and Canada. This update retains the right to appeal decisions to the courts, with or without order-making power. This is a practical, thoughtful, and modern approach that balances the principles, values, and perspectives of Nova Scotians.

Before I conclude, I would like to express my gratitude to the staff who worked so diligently to help bring this forward - a modern, practical, and effective freedom of information and protection of privacy legislation for Nova Scotians - and to the many people who contributed through input and debate.

Having said all that, I move now to close debate on third reading of Bill No. 150.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 150.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that this bill do pass. Ordered that the title be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker. Would you please call Bill No. 141.

Bill No. 141 - Municipal Modernization (2025) Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Speaker, I move that Bill No. 141 be now read for a third time and will briefly say a few words. The bill includes 13 amendments to six pieces of existing legislation, including the Municipal Government Act, the Halifax Regional Municipality Charter, the Halifax Regional Water Commission Act, the Municipal Elections Act, the Municipal Grants Act, and the Housing in the Halifax Regional Municipality Act, and also includes a new act called the Transportation Corridor Control Act.

[Page 2231]

These are - all these changes are designed to modernize things for municipalities and address issues. With the devastating wildfire still burning in the Annapolis Valley, we anticipate Nova Scotia will continue to experience more frequent and extreme weather. Unfortunately, sometimes homes are lost. For that reason, this Act will provide municipalities the power to create policies to reduce taxes for residents. We are also giving municipalities the ability to accept electronic payments. We are also updating the Municipal Elections Act to allow the returning officers to vote and also to allow people to have their names obscured on the public voter list if they are concerned - if they are victims of gender-based violence or some other reason - and have a reason to have their name obscured on that voter list. We are enabling that. This is a recommendation from the Mass Casualty Commission.

We are clarifying some things around the special planning areas for HRM. We are working to improve transportation. The Transportation Corridor Control Act will allow the Province to designate priority transportation corridors for major projects. This will help improve on-time and on-budget delivery of significant transportation infrastructure by minimizing delays.

We are also making changes to allow more participation in the Cogswell District Energy authority.

Finally, we are also doing something that we had done last year for critical health care facilities. We are enabling child care facilities that are not owned by the Province to be exempt from land use bylaws that would prevent or delay their development. Someone may wish to put a housing child care facility in a residential area. This may be deemed commercial. There might be a year-long process to change that one part of that one home from residential to commercial. If the Province was doing it, it would be exempt from those zoning laws. We are creating that exemption - much like we did for health care facilities - for child care facilities. This will allow more child care facilities to be built quicker.

Many of these changes are based on feedback from our municipalities. As Minister of Municipal Affairs, we appreciate our municipalities and how hard they all work, and we are happy to see this Act modernized. With that, I look forward to comments from my colleagues.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : I am happy to rise on third reading. As I said multiple times regarding this bill, there are parts of the bill that the provisions are good. The policy for reducing taxes payable with respect to people's homes that have been destroyed by wildfires, hurricanes, floods, storms, and other natural disasters is good.

[Page 2232]

We would have loved for the minister to have gone further with that to allow for individual fires, but as we saw in the Committee of the Whole House on Bills, that was not the case. We also like to see that there's a provision there to allow a voter's name to be obscured on the voters list. As we've said before, it is a good tool to shield domestic violence survivors from abusers, but again, there are still parts of this bill that I take issue with.

That is the continuous putting more and more power in the hands of the minister, particularly over planning in the municipal areas and specifically over whether it's housing, or whether it's long-term care facilities, or child care facilities, putting those places and areas where they may not be zoned for that particular thing. There is a reason - often I have said this to the minister before - why municipalities don't allow for it or have not allowed for it, and that is all infrastructure issues.

I was sad to see that the minister did not take our amendment that would have allowed for municipalities not to have to foot the bill on those infrastructure issues that the Province is downloading upon them. As we've said, we agree that there must be a need for rapid transit; that we need to be able to make it easier to move around this province and to move around our cities and towns. We think those aspects can be good.

With those final words, I will take my seat.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : I am often asked if I have a twin, but I don't, just a younger sister. My sister Holly is here today. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. We hope you enjoy your time.

The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I am only going to take a few minutes to talk about this because there are some changes that we support. Overall, there are some positive things in this bill: the property tax relief, changes related to the energy in the Cogswell district.

The Transportation Corridor Control Act is another step in the right direction, but the reason why I wanted to get on my feet is that this is coming and we are about to vote on this, but we found out 15 minutes ago that the government has essentially taken over planning in the HRM, and when I was asked the question a few minutes ago by the media, my response was: This is the special mayor powers. They gave themselves special mayor powers. They didn't want to give them to the mayor. They wanted to give them to themselves.

[Page 2233]

This is going to be a very interesting conversation moving forward, now that the government gave themselves the special mayor powers over HRM, which will be very interesting because we are not even sure - I know the mayor was quoted in the release which the minister indicated, but I am not convinced that HRM Regional Council knows that this took place.

I am sure that if this would have come before now, we probably would be into a pretty significant debate over this decision by the government to give themselves control over the HRM because, essentially, this is a sweeping move where there are areas that have been designated and now the government can essentially override the mayor and council.

Stay tuned, the rest of Nova Scotia. Stay tuned. I was pretty surprised to see the - but not really surprised because this is the way the government operates. We have this important piece of legislation that has aspects in it that we all support, as I've indicated, but now I believe that the councillors of the HRM have lost all of their power.

I think public input is going to be very interesting to watch moving forward. I think that - my colleague said it in her comments to the media: Why would anybody run for council? Essentially, they have lost that ability. The government is taking over planning for a population of 500,000 people, the largest city in our province. It is going to spark a lot of conversation moving forward.

[12:45 p.m.]

I wanted to get up and talk about some positive aspects of the bill, which I was happy to do. This is a big move by the government, and I suspect that the relationship between the province and the municipalities moving forward is going to be very different. HRM today is CBRM tomorrow, what's next for them. Is this the real municipal modernization that the government wants to do?

I think it was very important to bring that up. I'm sure my colleague will talk about it too. That happened in the last half hour. This announcement came out. It should have been on the floor of the Legislature. Should have been debated on the floor of the Legislature - essentially changing democracy here.

This is a very big change for a democratically elected body that is the HRM mayor and council. I'll be very interested to hear more comments from the mayor on his support for this. I'm not sure that the councillors are aware of this or not. I would predict maybe they're not. This is a huge shift in the relationship between the province and the HRM and I would argue even further a huge change in the dynamic of governments in this province. Frankly, if the council wasn't made aware, if the elected councillors weren't made aware of it, this is disrespectful to them as democratically elected councillors.

[Page 2234]

I was a councillor at one point in my career, Speaker; you were to as well - very proud to serve as a councillor in my community. It's a foundation of why I have the privilege of standing on my feet here today in the Legislature. I can tell you that if the government of the day came in and said, "We're going to take over planning for your community," I'm sure I would be very upset. You would be very upset. Many of the people who were elected councillors in this place would be as well.

I'll stop there. I want to give time to my colleague. I think it's very important. This should have come to the floor. It should have been debated on the floor. This is a huge change in the relationship with our largest municipality which I'm sure will flow into other municipalities. It's a huge in democracy and the election of people in this community in Halifax and potentially in communities across the province.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, my colleague has spoken to the bill previously, the good and the bad. The real municipal modernization that's taking place here is that on a Friday afternoon after eight long days that constitute the fall session of this Legislature this government has taken over planning of the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Here's what they haven't done. They haven't delivered for the Halifax Regional Municipality the things that are already within the provincial purview. There are a number of schools waiting to be built that have not been built. We have not heard an earful.

As the MLA for Dartmouth South, I will say that we have been on the list for a new school for over a decade - not a whisper. We haven't heard about bus rapid transit - actually I correct myself. We have heard: it's not coming. We haven't heard about upgraded water infrastructure, at a time when the infrastructure needs of Halifax Water are so severe that people are facing a rate shock. We haven't heard about improvements to our power grid that would mean that residents of downtown HRM don't have to own gas-fired generators because they don't know if their power is going to stay on for the winter in the middle of this province's most populous city, where half of the population lives.

The government can't do their own job when it comes to infrastructure, when it comes to schools, or when it comes to utilities. But now they want to do the job of HRM council. Does this not warrant debate? Should the public not have been made aware of this? Thank you, Speaker.

THE SPEAKER « » : If I recognize the minister, it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

[Page 2235]

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Speaker, I thank the members. I can assure members of this House that, as of the timing of the announcement today, we expected this legislative session to last four weeks. It has nothing to do with the end (Interruptions)

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, order.

The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

JOHN LOHR « » : The reality is that we continue to work to provide housing for residents of this province, and we will do what is necessary to do that. The powers exercised were thoroughly debated in this House previously, and the amendments, the interim planning area announced was all content out of the existing regional plan, 20 pages out of a 1,000-page regional plan.

We continue to work to provide housing for Nova Scotians. That's the reality. With those words, Speaker, I move to close third reading of Bill No. 141.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 141.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that that this bill do pass. Ordered that the title be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : I request a quick recess to await the arrival of His Honour.

THE SPEAKER « » : We will have a short recess.

[12:52 p.m. The House recessed.]

[1:07 p.m. The House reconvened.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please.

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: His Honour the Lieutenant Governor is without.

THE SPEAKER « » : Let His Honour the Lieutenant Governor be admitted.

[Page 2236]

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.

The Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Mike Savage, preceded by his Private Secretary and Mr. David Fraser, Sergeant-at-Arms, bearing the Mace, entered the House of Assembly Chamber. The Lieutenant Governor then took his seat on the Throne.

The Sergeant-at-Arms then departed and re-entered the Chamber, followed by the Speaker, the Honourable Danielle Barkhouse; the Chief Clerk of the House, James Charlton; and the Assistant Clerk, David Hastings.

The Speaker, with the Clerk and Assistant Clerk on her left and the Sergeant-at-Arms and Assistant Clerk on her right, took up her position at the foot of the Table of the House.]

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: It is the wish of His Honour the Lieutenant Governor that everyone present be seated.

THE SPEAKER « » : May it please Your Honour, the General Assembly of the Province has, in its present sitting, passed certain bills to which, in the name and on behalf of the General Assembly, I respectfully request Your Honour's Assent.

THE ASSISTANT CLERK » :

Bill No. 127 - Protecting Nova Scotians Act.

Bill No. 130 - Traffic Safety Act.

Bill No. 134 - Justice Administration Amendment (Fall 2025) Act.

Bill No. 137 - Making Business Easier Act.

Bill No. 141 - Municipal Modernization (2025) Act.

Bill No. 144 - Workers' Compensation Act (amended).

Bill No. 146 - Banook Canoe Club, Limited, An Act to Incorporate (amended).

Bill No. 149 - Powering the Offshore Act.

Bill No. 150 - Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Bill No. 155 - Yarmouth Golf and Country Club, The, An Act to Incorporate (amended).

Bill No. 156 - Bridgewater Museum Commission Dissolution Act.

[Page 2237]

Bill No. 157 – LaHave and District Fire Department Act (amended).

Bill No. 165 - An Act to Honour Members and Retired Members of the Canadian Armed Forces in Nova Scotia.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR: In His Majesty's name, I thank His loyal subjects, I accept their benevolence, and I Assent to these Bills.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber. The Lieutenant Governor left the Chamber.]

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: Her Honour the Speaker.

[The Speaker took the Chair.]

THE SPEAKER « » : I ask the members to please rise and join me in the singing of our national anthem.

[The national anthem was sung by the members.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Thank you. Please be seated.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Before I move to adjourn, I would like to thank a number of people who are in the House and made sure this sitting moved along smoothly.

[1:15 p.m.]

On behalf of all members of the House, I want to acknowledge the Pages; those at Legislative Television, who make us look so good; the folks at Hansard; the Clerks of our House, James and David and the team; the Legislative Counsel Office, who drafts the bills we debate on the floor every single day; the Legislative Library; the House operations staff; the Sergeant-at-Arms; the Commissionaires; our constituency coordinators, who make our constituencies run while we're here in this House; the entire Public Service. The men and women who are in the Public Service are some of the most dedicated people in the province. Speaker, I will go on the record, and I think everyone agrees, they are the best in the country. Our families, especially, for supporting us while we're in the House. For those of us who get to go home at night, it's a little bit easier. For those who don't, you are away from your family, and we appreciate that, and for our loved ones for ensuring that our children's lives continue to go on while we're sitting here during the hours.

Thank you to our families, thank you to all of you for your support. I move that this General Assembly be adjourned to meet again at the call of the Speaker.

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THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House now adjourn to meet again at the call of the Speaker.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The House now stands adjourned.

[The House rose at 1:16 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 258

By: Hon. Trevor Boudreau (Richmond)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Blaise Sampson, who is the current President of the St. Peter's Fire Department, was awarded the NS Strong Provincial Volunteer Award on September 29, 2025; and

Whereas Blaise has dedicated 35 years to the St. Peter's Fire Department and was selected for this award thanks to the heartfelt stories shared by individuals who experienced his compassion firsthand during his years as a volunteer firefighter; and

Whereas his compassion goes beyond the call of duty evident in the frequent visits with his neighbours to check in on them and his willingness to attend a scene without a moment's hesitation;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Blaise Sampson for his deserved recognition and thank him for his lifelong dedication to public service.

RESOLUTION NO. 259

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By: Hon. Susan Corkum-Greek (Lunenburg)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas ceramic artists Pam Birdsall and Tim Worthington arrived in Mahone Bay 48 years ago, establishing their studio Birdsall-Worthington Pottery; and

Whereas the pair became pillars of the South Shore arts community, not only creating their much-treasured commemorative plates, vessels, jewellery, and specialty commissions for collectors across the globe, but supporting other artisans; and

Whereas Pam later served as MLA for Lunenburg, the only NSCAD alumna to sit as a Member of the Nova Scotia Legislature;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly convey best wishes and congratulations to Pam Birdsall and Tim Worthington as they mount on one last big show at the Lunenburg School of the Arts before retirement. We wish them the very best!

RESOLUTION NO. 260

By: David Bowlby (Annapolis)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the dedicated volunteers and professionals of the Annapolis Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) have served as the calm and coordinated centre for the response to the Long Lake wildfires for many weeks; and

Whereas their exceptional work behind the scenes has been crucial in supporting our brave first responders, and their commitment to preparedness, partnership, and protecting our community embodies the very best of public service; and

Whereas the Annapolis REMO stands as a testament to what can be achieved when municipalities and community partners work together seamlessly for the common good;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend their deepest thanks to every member of the Annapolis Regional Emergency Management Organization for their invaluable service on behalf of a grateful province.

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RESOLUTION NO. 261

By: David Bowlby (Annapolis)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the skilled and courageous pilots Guy Cannon, Matt Drotor, Michael Labine, Jeff Goulter, Keith Webber, Jason Mitchell, Ken Williams, and Anthony Myroon, along with the dedicated aircraft engineers Chris Mattson and Jackson Hayward of Buffalo Airways, Northwest Territories, performed heroic service in battling the massive 8,400-hectare Long Lake wildfire; and

Whereas for weeks, these aviators selflessly risked their lives operating water bombers to protect our communities from imminent danger, and we owe them our profound gratitude for their incredible service; and

Whereas in a demonstration of our community's appreciation, Kustom Creations and a local military officer kindly lent pilots Mike Labine and Guy Cannon motorcycles, allowing for a celebratory ride through the community that honored their efforts;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly offer their sincerest thanks to these pilots and aircraft engineers for their courageous work and incredible service in protecting the people and communities of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 262

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas d'Eon's Bakery is a fourth-generation Acadian family business in West Pubnico and a proud Nova Scotia Loyal Producer; and

Whereas back in 1927, the small business began selling homemade bread from the kitchen, making 60 loaves of bread a day that were delivered to the local community by the mail truck; and

Whereas the company has evolved into a household name in southwest Nova Scotia, specializing in traditional Acadian dishes like rappie pie and their popular rappie pie mixes, not to mention their delicious plum sauce, patty shells, and their ever-growing list of ready-to-eat meals;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize d'Eon's Bakery and thank them for being Nova Scotia Loyal partners and supporting our communities.

RESOLUTION NO. 263

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the founder of the newly opened Dottie's Flower Shop in Tusket, Abby Stark, named her shop to honour her grandmother, Dottie, who played an integral part in Abby's life growing up, and it embodies her grandmother's friendly spirit, charm, and inviting atmosphere; and

Whereas Abby always had a connection with flowers, believing they speak when there are no words, offering comfort, celebration, and joy to any season while blending modern style with vintage charm and a lot of whimsy; and

Whereas at Dottie's you're always welcome, whether you're picking up a ready-made bouquet, building your own at the flower bar, or just dropping in to say hello;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Abby on the opening of Dottie's Flower Shop and hopes her business blossoms beautifully in the years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 264

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas volunteer firefighters play an essential role in ensuring public safety and provide a vital link between community members and emergency services, especially in rural areas; and

Whereas when an incident exceeds a single department's capacity, mutual aid among fire departments is crucial to ensure a more effective response, as was the case in the Long Lake Wildfire, requiring the largest fire department mutual aid response in our Province's history; and

[Page 2242]

Whereas the Eel Brook & District Volunteer Fire Department joined in the battle to combat the Long Lake Wildfire;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the Eel Brook & District Volunteer Fire Department for stepping up to help our neighbors in their time of need and thank them for their dedicated service.

RESOLUTION NO. 265

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas volunteer firefighters play an essential role in ensuring public safety and provide a vital link between community members and emergency services, especially in rural areas; and

Whereas when an incident exceeds a single department's capacity, mutual aid among fire departments is crucial to ensure a more effective response, as was the case in the Long Lake Wildfire, requiring the largest fire department mutual aid response in our Province's history; and

Whereas the Lake Vaughan Volunteer Fire Department joined in the battle to combat the Long Lake Wildfire;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the Lake Vaughan Volunteer Fire Department for stepping up to help our neighbors in their time of need and thank them for their dedicated service.

RESOLUTION NO. 266

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas volunteer firefighters play an essential role in ensuring public safety and provide a vital link between community members and emergency services, especially in rural areas; and

[Page 2243]

Whereas when an incident exceeds a single department's capacity, mutual aid among fire departments is crucial to ensure a more effective response, as was the case in the Long Lake Wildfire, requiring the largest fire department mutual aid response in our Province's history; and

Whereas the Pubnico & District Fire Department joined in the battle to combat the Long Lake Wildfire;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the Pubnico & District Fire Department for stepping up to help our neighbors in their time of need and thank them for their dedicated service.

RESOLUTION NO. 267

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas volunteer firefighters play an essential role in ensuring public safety and provide a vital link between community members and emergency services, especially in rural areas; and

Whereas when an incident exceeds a single department's capacity, mutual aid among fire departments is crucial to ensure a more effective response, as was the case in the Long Lake Wildfire, requiring the largest fire department mutual aid response in our Province's history; and

Whereas the Quinan and District Volunteer Fire Department joined in the battle to combat the Long Lake Wildfire;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the Quinan and District Volunteer Fire Department for stepping up to help our neighbors in their time of need and thank them for their dedicated service.

RESOLUTION NO. 268

By: Hon. Becky Druhan (Lunenburg West)

[Page 2244]

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Indian Garden Farms, an agricultural treasure in Hebbville, has been proudly family-operated since 1856 and is now in its sixth generation under Glen Hebb and his family, serving as a cornerstone of rural heritage and community life; and

Whereas the farm offers stunning views of Lunenburg County, U-pick berries, a vibrant market, and a wide variety of crops - from apples to pumpkins - while actively participating in Nova Scotia's Farm Day celebrations; and

Whereas Glen's son Matthew is leading innovative drought mitigation and irrigation efforts, exemplifying the skill and dedication of Nova Scotia's next generation of farmers;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize and thank the Hebb family for their enduring contributions to agriculture, sustainability, and the local community.

RESOLUTION NO. 269

By: Hon. Becky Druhan (Lunenburg West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Trudy Johnson is Bridgewater's 2025 Representative Volunteer of the Year for her visionary leadership, compassion, creativity, collaborative spirit, and lasting impact across the South Shore; and

Whereas Trudy, a former educator, dedicated her career to nurturing and guiding youth as both teacher and principal, and as an inspiring volunteer, co-founded the South Shore Hospice Palliative Care Society and the Foundation for Youth Support; and

Whereas Trudy has served on numerous boards and committees, including the Family Support Centre, Autism Nova Scotia, and South Shore Health, demonstrating lifelong commitment to community well-being;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Trudy Johnson for her outstanding service and thank her for her enduring dedication to the people of Bridgewater and beyond.

[Page 2245]

RESOLUTION NO. 270

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this summer, 106 incredible campers between the ages of 5-12 gathered for Camp Aspire's Dare2Dream Camp 3.0.; and

Whereas supported by 17 dedicated volunteers, passionate facilitators, and our amazing community partners, the camp empowered Black youth through mentorship, leadership training, STEM, sports, creativity, and cultural pride; and

Whereas during the closing ceremony, I was so thrilled to watch these kids stand tall with confidence and share what they had learned, as they spoke about their dreams - moments that remind us that leadership starts early when we nurture it;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding the Leading Leaders Society of Nova Scotia for spearheading this initiative, the funders, supporters, volunteers, and families who supported the next generation of leaders at Camp Aspire 2025.

RESOLUTION NO. 271

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy was presented back in May by the incredibly talented students of Halifax West High School and what a breathtaking performance it was; and

Whereas with over 150 students involved, from cast to crew, this production was spectacular, every scene brought energy, creativity, and the kind of brilliance that leaves you smiling long after the curtains close; and

Whereas the perfect blend of humour, heart, and high school excellence - a reminder of the power of arts in shaping confident, expressive, and collaborative young minds;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding everyone involved in putting together a performance that truly celebrated creativity and collaboration. Bravo.

[Page 2246]

RESOLUTION NO. 272

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Hallmark Dental Laboratory is a full-service lab that specializes in manufacturing a wide range of dental products, including orthodontic appliances, clear aligners, dentures, crowns, bridges, and dental implants; and

Whereas Hallmark provides these services to dentists all across Canada; and

Whereas I had the pleasure of touring the facility this past June and I was very impressed with the team's commitment to technological advancements as well as their high-quality products;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding the team at the Hallmark Dental Laboratory of Clayton Park West for their attention and focus on customer service.

RESOLUTION NO. 273

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Harold Sponagle of Clayton Park West celebrated his 100^th birthday on July 22, 2025, while still swimming daily and working out at home every day; and

Whereas Harold's daughter Bev organized a wonderful 100^th celebration that was filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of joy that only comes from a life well-lived and deeply loved; and

Whereas during the celebration, when I asked Harold how it felt to be 100, his response was that he walked into an antique shop recently and they didn't want to let him leave;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Harold, on this amazing milestone - his spirit is inspiring, his story is a gift, and his legacy of laughter, strength, and kindness is one we are all better for.

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RESOLUTION NO. 274

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I was honoured to have joined the congregation of the Hillside United Church this past June, as they marked their 100^th anniversary of the United Church of Canada; and

Whereas the celebration was as joyful as it was meaningful, offering a great opportunity for neighbours to reconnect, while children played freely, and new friendships were formed across generations; and

Whereas the evening ended with a special livestream watch party, joining communities from coast to coast in a spirit of shared celebration;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Hillside United Church on a century of service, faith, and impact and here's to another 100 years of building a stronger, more connected community.

RESOLUTION NO. 275

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the world's fastest rapid tests for HIV, hepatitis B/C, and syphilis are being developed right here in Clayton Park West at MedMira Inc.; and

Whereas I had the pleasure of visiting Hermes Chan and Carlina Hui, co-founders the MedMira Inc., a global health innovation company proudly based in our community; and

Whereas with about 30 team members, they are not only making waves around the world, they are creating jobs and changing lives right here at home;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding the truly inspiring team at MedMira Inc., a proud local company making a global impact.

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RESOLUTION NO. 276

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on August 5, 2025, the staff of Parkland Clayton Park Retirement Home invited Reid and Greg from Share the Wind in Digby to provide motorcycle rides around the parking lot for the residents; and

Whereas since 2011, Share the Wind has been generously giving their time to provide rides for those that would not otherwise experience the thrill of a motorcycle ride; and

Whereas a big thank you also goes out to Amy from Auto Rock Radio Halifax for sponsoring Share the Wind at Parkland Clayton Park;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding Alicia and the staff of Parkland, Reid, Greg, and Amy for giving the residents the ride of a lifetime and reminding them how much their work matters every single day.

RESOLUTION NO. 277

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I had the pleasure of serving as a guest judge for the Top Chef 2025 High School Competition, as I watched nine teams from four local high schools showcase passion, creativity, and culinary brilliance; and

Whereas a big shout-out goes to the winning team, The Frenchies from École secondaire du Sommet, for their delicious "Tartine Énergie du Matin" (Morning Energy Toast) that was not only health-conscious, but creative and full of heart; and

Whereas it is important to keep nurturing the talents of our youth because tomorrow's leaders are already cooking up greatness today;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating The Frenchies and passing along a huge thank you to the organizers and supporters who made this competition possible.

RESOLUTION NO. 278

By: Adegoke Fadare (Clayton Park West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I was honoured to be able to present the inaugural Donna Dodsworth Community Service Award to Zlata Honchar at the Halifax West High School graduation ceremony in June; and

Whereas Zlata Honchar was a wonderful lady whose dedication to her community made great impacts and touched the lives of many; and

Whereas Zlata Honchar is an exceptional young leader, and the first recipient to receive this award, as her commitment to community, passion for innovation, and drive to make a difference are exactly what this award is all about;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Zlata Honchar and wishing her all the best to keep striving, keep shining, and never stop making an impact.

RESOLUTION NO. 279

By: Nick Hilton (Yarmouth)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Michael John Christopher Deveau was born at Yarmouth Regional Hospital on July 12, 2025, at 10:12 a.m., weighing seven pounds and 14 ounces; and

Whereas Michael John Christopher Deveau is the cherished child of proud parents Michael and Haley Deveau; and

Whereas the arrival of a new child brings happiness, hope, and the promise of a bright future for all who surround him;

[Page 2250]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Michael and Haley Deveau on the birth of their son, Michael John Christopher Deveau, and extend best wishes for health, happiness, and many cherished moments together as a family.

RESOLUTION NO. 280

By: Nick Hilton (Yarmouth)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Fred and Pamela Graham have made significant contributions to building a healthier and more welcoming community in Yarmouth; and

Whereas they have devoted countless volunteer hours to numerous organizations, always stepping forward with generosity, compassion, and a willingness to help wherever needed; and

Whereas through their dedication, they have not only left a lasting impact on the community of Yarmouth and the residents of Nova Scotia, but have also built lifelong friendships along the way;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize and celebrate the contributions of Fred and Pam Graham to the community of Yarmouth and to the province of Nova Scotia and acknowledge them forever as proud Nova Scotian Bluenosers.

RESOLUTION NO. 281

By: Nick Hilton (Yarmouth)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Sherry Robertson Russell's dedication and vision led to the creation of Yarmouth Life Skills, a day program service for post school-age adults with intellectual and accompanying physical disabilities; and

Whereas over the past 18 years, Sherry has fostered meaningful, compassionate, and lasting relationships with her staff, friends, and the residents of Life Skills; and

Whereas Sherry has forever changed the landscape for individuals in Yarmouth and across our region who live with intellectual and accompanying physical disabilities;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize and celebrate Sherry Robertson Russell's outstanding contribution to the people and communities of Nova Scotia, honoring her tireless advocacy, inspiring leadership, and unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of others, and that her legacy serve as a model of compassion, inclusion, and community service for generations to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 282

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Pictou Strongman Competition was held on September 6, 2025, at the Hector Arena; and

Whereas Bradley Tremblett from Raw Power Strength and Performance Centre competed in the men's category; and

Whereas Bradley took 3^rd place in his category;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Bradley Tremblett for his accomplishment at the Pictou Strongman Competition.

RESOLUTION NO. 283

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Pictou Strongman Competition was held on September 6, 2025, at the Hector Arena; and

Whereas Christine Fox from Raw Power Strength and Performance Centre competed in the women's category; and

Whereas Christine took 3^rd place in her category;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Christine Fox for her accomplishment at the Pictou Strongman Competition.

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RESOLUTION NO. 284

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas canoer Ava Carew was one of 40 paddlers representing Dartmouth's Senobe Aquatic Club; and

Whereas Ava won gold medals in Senior Women's C1 500m, Senior Women's C2 1000 metres, Junior Women's C2 500m, and Junior Women's C2 1000m;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Ava Carew for her accomplishments.

RESOLUTION NO. 285

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas Senobe Aquatic Club's Dennis Turner attended Nationals for the first time; and

Whereas Dennis earned his first National's medal with a bronze medal performance in the PaddleAll Men's Touring K1 200m;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Dennis Turner for this accomplishment.

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RESOLUTION NO. 286

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas Senobe Aquatic Club's Ella McFarlane attended Nationals for the first time; and

Whereas Ella partnered with veteran paddler Ava Carew to take home the gold medal in the Junior Women C2 500m;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Ella McFarlane and Ava Carew for this accomplishment.

RESOLUTION NO. 287

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas Senobe Aquatic Club's gold medal Junior Men's C4 1000m team, consisting of Liam MacDonald, Michael Zinck, Duncan Giles, and Nick Baert, won the "John. W. Black Trophy" for Junior Men's C4 1000m; and

Whereas this trophy, usually known simply as "the Black", has been awarded since 1928 and, in the paddling world, is spoken of with the same reverence as some speak of the Stanley Cup or the Grey Cup;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Senobe Aquatic Club's Junior Men's C4 1000m team for this accomplishment.

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RESOLUTION NO. 288

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas Senobe Aquatic Club's Lillian Wile attended Nationals for the first time; and

Whereas Lillian partnered with veteran paddler Ava Carew to take home the gold medal in the Junior Women C2 200m;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Lilian Wile and Ava Carew for this accomplishment.

RESOLUTION NO. 289

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas Senobe Aquatic Club's team consisted of over 40 paddlers, along with head coach Rob Baert; and

Whereas Senobe paddlers took home 10 gold medals, seven silver medals and 12 bronze medals;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Senobe Aquatic Club for their accomplishments.

RESOLUTION NO. 290

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

[Page 2255]

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canoe Kayak Canada's Sprint National Championship was held in Regina, Saskatchewan from August 26^th to 30^th; and

Whereas Senobe Aquatic Club's Senior Men's C15 boat dominated, winning the gold medal and the coveted Colonel Herbert Molson Memorial Trophy by a margin of over 7 seconds; and

Whereas the Senior Men's Crew was captained by Iain Carew and consisted of Sam Allison, Nick Baert, Alex Erith-Ellwood, Duncan Giles, Jonathan Huntington, Nathan Leger, Isaac Macdonald, Liam Macdonald, Lucas Maclean, Trevor Maclean, Neil Rissesco, Ben Robichaud, Owen White, and Michael Zinck;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Senobe Aquatic Club's Senior Men's C15 crew for this accomplishment.

RESOLUTION NO. 291

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Pictou Strongman Competition was held on September 6, 2025, at the Hector Arena; and

Whereas Lisa Wills from Raw Power Strength and Performance Centre competed in the women's category; and

Whereas Lisa took first place in her category;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Lisa Wills for her accomplishment at the Pictou Strongman Competition.

RESOLUTION NO. 292

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

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I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas each year Support 4 Sport presents the Community Sport Organizations of the Year Award; and

Whereas this award recognizes community sport organizations for the incredible work they do to deliver sport opportunities to Nova Scotians; and

Whereas North Star Rowing Club was a 2025 recipient of the Community Sport Organizations of the Year Award;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to North Star Rowing Club for being named one of Support 4 Sport's community sport organizations of the year.

RESOLUTION NO. 293

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas each year Support 4 Sport presents the Community Sport Organizations of the Year Award; and

Whereas this award recognizes community sport organizations for the incredible work they do to deliver sport opportunities to Nova Scotians; and

Whereas Tribal Boxing Club was a 2025 recipient of the Community Sport Organizations of the Year Award;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere congratulations to Tribal Boxing Club for being named one of Support 4 Sport's community sport organizations of the year.

RESOLUTION NO. 294

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

[Page 2257]

Whereas Eassons Transport, founded in 1945 by William Easson, has grown from hauling Annapolis Valley apples to becoming one of Nova Scotia's leading transportation companies; and

Whereas the company has expanded over eight decades through bakery deliveries, long-haul trucking across the Maritimes, operations into the eastern United States, and innovations such as satellite tracking and modern fleet systems; and

Whereas today Eassons Transport operates with more than 325 tractors and 480 trailers, serving clients from offices in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Ontario, while remaining a proud, family-driven enterprise committed to reliability and innovation;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend congratulations to Eassons Transport on its 80^th anniversary and recognize its contributions to the economy, community, and transportation industry of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 295

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas David Hovell has been recognized as an honorary member of 4-H in 2025, acknowledging his years of dedication and service to the 4-H community; and

Whereas through his leadership, mentorship, and volunteerism at local, regional, and provincial events, David has helped empower countless young people to grow as leaders in agriculture, community service, and personal development; and

Whereas his commitment to the values of head, heart, hands, and health has left a lasting impact on Nova Scotia youth, inspiring them to become confident, community-minded citizens;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend its congratulations and gratitude to David Hovell for his remarkable contributions to 4-H and to the development of youth across Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 296

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By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Master Corporal Brennan Maddison, C.D., has served with distinction as a member of the King's Life Guard, a role steeped in centuries of military tradition and dedicated to the ceremonial protection of Royal residences; and

Whereas his service reflects exceptional skill, discipline, and loyalty, while symbolizing the values of honour, precision, and excellence that inspire his fellow soldiers and community alike; and

Whereas beyond his ceremonial duties, Brennan has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to his comrades, his community, and the broader goals of service, honour, and duty, bringing pride to Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend its congratulations and thanks to Master Corporal Brennan Maddison, C.D., for his dedicated service to country, community, and Crown.

RESOLUTION NO. 297

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Grade 12 Northeast Kings Education Centre student Olivia Felker of Centreville has achieved national recognition through the Royal Canadian Legion's National Youth Remembrance Contest; and

Whereas Olivia earned second place in the colour poster competition at the national level, following her success at the Legion Branch and Provincial competitions, and received a $500 prize with her artwork to be displayed in Ottawa for one year; and

Whereas her artistic accomplishment reflects the spirit and purpose of the Poppy Campaign, encouraging youth to honour and reflect on the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend congratulations to Olivia Felker for her remarkable achievement, artistic excellence, and her role in strengthening remembrance in Canada.

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RESOLUTION NO. 298

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Phantom Effects Special Effects of Kentville has been recognized as a 2025 Valley's Best Business by the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce; and

Whereas founded in 1997 by Aaron Peerless, the company has contributed to the rejuvenation of Kentville's historic Main Street Station while building a strong reputation for creativity and excellence in special effects make-up; and

Whereas their talented team has worked on movies, TV shows, and music videos, earning accolades such as the ECMA Best Video of the Year 2017, while also giving back through community initiatives including the Make-a-Wish Foundation and youth mental health programs;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend congratulations to Aaron Peerless and Phantom Effects Special Effects for their recognition as a 2025 Valley's Best Business and commend their creative contributions to both the arts and the local community.

RESOLUTION NO. 299

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Todd Gates of Arlington has demonstrated entrepreneurial vision by opening his new business, The Raging Crow Distillery, in Canning; and

Whereas The Raging Crow Distillery is a small-batch, hand-crafted artisanal distillery that sources local Valley ingredients whenever possible, including honey, maple syrup, rye, and even locally smoked bacon; and

Whereas the distillery proudly belongs to the Craft Distillers Association of Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Good Cheer Trail, and Taste of Nova Scotia, strengthening both community identity and the province's culinary culture;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend congratulations to Todd Gates on the establishment of The Raging Crow Distillery, and recognize its role in promoting Nova Scotia craftsmanship, local agriculture, and rural business innovation.

RESOLUTION NO. 300

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Syd West, a Grade 12 student at Horton High School in Kentville, has shown remarkable determination and ingenuity in developing a pair of smart glasses designed to detect strobe-light frequencies and mitigate seizure risks; and

Whereas Syd's invention has earned her national recognition, including a gold medal at the 2025 Canada-Wide Science Fair, the Youth Can Innovate Award, and significant scholarships totaling nearly $40,000 from institutions across Canada; and

Whereas she plans to pursue a patent and continue developing her design so it may improve the quality of life for people living with photosensitive epilepsy, exemplifying youth-driven innovation in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend congratulations to Syd West for her inspiring achievement, and recognize her as a role model in innovation, perseverance, and community impact.

RESOLUTION NO. 301

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Triple E Technology Solutions, located in Kentville, has been recognized as the 2025 Valley Chamber of Commerce Best Technology Business Award recipient; and

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Whereas Triple E Technology Solutions, whose name reflects Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Excellence, is a locally owned and operated company that provides vital IT solutions to professional corporations across the Atlantic provinces; and

Whereas the company's success demonstrates its commitment to consulting, sales, installation, and servicing of technology infrastructure that meets and exceeds client needs;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend its congratulations to Triple E Technology Solutions for their outstanding achievement and continued contributions to innovation and business excellence in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 302

By: Hon. John Lohr (Kings North)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Valley Regional Hospital Foundation has been recognized as the 2025 Valley's Best Non-Profit Organization by the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce; and

Whereas since its founding in 1985 to help raise funds for the Valley Regional Hospital, the Foundation has provided over $21 million in support of health care improvements through the generosity of donors, sponsors, volunteers, and the community; and

Whereas the Foundation's tireless efforts have strengthened healthcare in the Annapolis Valley, ensuring that the Valley Regional Hospital continues to provide high-quality services as a regional referral centre;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend congratulations to the Valley Regional Hospital Foundation for this well-deserved recognition and commend their outstanding service and dedication to health care in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 303

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

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Whereas this past August 16^th, I was pleased to bring greetings and join in the festivities at the Brooklyn Marina's Second Annual Cardboard Boat Races; and

Whereas there was a fantastic turnout there to witness the creativity, community spirit, and tons of fun on the water, as each and every team competed with energy and smiles; and

Whereas boats must be constructed from uncoated cardboard, and meet all other requirements as teams and individuals compete for titles in five categories, and there was great food, great music, and loads of laughter and enjoyment;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking the organizers, volunteers, participants, and the crowds for making this such an amazing and memorable community event.

RESOLUTION NO. 304

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this past July 4^th through 6^th, Queens County was in full bloom as the Region hosted its first-ever Dogwood Festival; and

Whereas the community-wide celebration included a series of events over the weekend and marked 25 years since hundreds of dogwoods were planted across Queens as part of a millennial project launched in 2000; and

Whereas today these trees are a seasonal feature across the region, covering communities in pink and white blossoms each June and July;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in expressing gratitude and congratulations to the festival organizers, whose worthwhile goal is to recognize the quiet transformation the tree planting project has brought to the region over the past 25 years, and to continue growing that legacy for the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 305

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

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I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas 12-year-old Hailey Flemming of Port Medway recently earned a spot at the Canadian Kennel Club's National Junior Handling Championship; and

Whereas the competition was held in Winnipeg this past August, Hailey first experienced the dog show ring at age four, and has been competing in conformation and obedience for about two years; and

Whereas at the nationals, Hailey and her beautiful collie Nala were up against 13 other junior dog handlers from across the country, aged up to 19;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding Hailey on this impressive accomplishment, and in wishing her all the best as she pursues her dream of becoming a professional handler, Queens County is proud of you!

RESOLUTION NO. 306

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Queens County's beaches are known for their beauty, but during recent years they have also been transformed into the canvases upon which artist Jane Dunlop-Stevenson creates her collection of works known as Nova Scotia Beach Art; and

Whereas Jane is a performance artist, and she carefully plans and measures each section of beach before etching her intricate and spectacular designs into the shoreline, and each masterpiece is a unique moment that she videos and captures from above before the waves carry it away; and

Whereas among her approximate 55 pieces, Jane has created tributes to hometown Olympians and to the Liverpool International Theatre Festival;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Jane for sharing her inspirational art and creativity and for instilling in all of us an even deeper pride in our beautiful community.

RESOLUTION NO. 307

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By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Janet Fancy recently retired from North Queens Nursing Home after an incredible 45-year long career, I am especially proud, because I am honoured to call Janet "Mom"; and

Whereas a nurse and later recreation director at NQNH, Mom touched and improved countless lives, and her love and dedication to the residents of this care facility earned her deep respect, admiration, and genuine affection from everyone who crossed her professional path; and

Whereas we Fancy kids used to joke that Mom loved the residents more than she did us, but we grew to realize that the missed milestones due to double shifts and overtime came from her beliefs that she was doing what she was put on this earth to do: care for people;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating my Mom. Janet you've most certainly earned this next chapter, we are so proud of you!

RESOLUTION NO. 308

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in August I was pleased to attend the 20^th Annual Log-a-Load for Kids Softball Tournament in Harmony, Queens County; and

Whereas the Log-a-Load for Kids Canada is a giving campaign initiative of the Canadian Woodlands Forum, and teams from the Nova Scotia Forest Industry include contractors, local businesses, and community members, and this year the organizations set a loft goal: they wanted to bring their 20-year total amount raised for the IWK Children's Hospital to $400,000; and

Whereas they didn't just meet their goal, they smashed it, raising over $40,000, and bringing their all-time donation amount to an amazing $414,000;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding the efforts of the tournament's organizing committee, participants, sponsors, and contributors, and in thanking them for their continued commitment to staging this incredible fundraiser each year.

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RESOLUTION NO. 309

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this past August, Queens County lost an icon, and I lost a valued mentor and friend when Robert Kitchener "R.K." MacKinnon passed away peacefully at the age of 95; and

Whereas R.K. believed in the power of community, and he cared genuinely for his neighbours, earning the respect and trust of all who knew him, a dedicated family man who led by example, instilling in others a desire to give back and do better; and

Whereas he became a part of my family and an integral part of my political journey, he was truly loyal to the party, loyal to the cause, loyal to the candidate, and loyal to his friends, no matter what;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in extending their deepest condolences to R.K.'s family. He is already sorely missed.

RESOLUTION NO. 310

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the South Shore Regional Airport, located near Greenfield, Queens County, recently celebrated their 50^th anniversary with festivities that included airplanes, helicopters, live music, food trucks, and an RCAF Aurora fly-by; and

Whereas this airport project began in 1965, with routine flights in and out of the airport beginning in the summer of 1970; and

Whereas the South Shore Flying Club formed in 2015, promotes and organizes aviation related activities, facilities and services, and strives to preserve and promote aviation on the South Shore;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in acknowledging this significant milestone and in thanking the members of the South Shore Flying Club for all they do to ensure the South Shore Regional Airport's continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 311

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Tony Dagley recently retired after serving Queens County Schools for an incredible 29 years; and

Whereas Tony was so much more than a custodian who kept schools clean, he was a valued part of the school community, he was always willing to lend a hand wherever it was needed, and Tony was a great supporter of school sports and fundraising efforts; and

Whereas students and staff alike appreciated his kindness, dedication, and selflessness, and his friendly face will be missed;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Tony on this well-deserved milestone and in thanking him for his many years of service to our schools and community, enjoy your retirement my friend!

RESOLUTION NO. 312

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this past summer, Eassons Transport, a proud family-owned and -operated business, celebrated its 80^th anniversary; and

Whereas Eassons first began in Berwick in 1945, when founder Lawrence Easson started the company with a single truck. From those modest beginnings, the business has grown into one of the region's most trusted names in trucking and logistics, serving communities across the Maritimes and beyond; and

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Whereas for eight decades, Easson's has built a reputation for hard work, reliability, and commitment to service. Their success is not only a testament to the vision of the Easson family, but also to the many employees whose dedication has kept the company moving forward for generations;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Eassons Transport on 80 years of excellence and contribution to our community's economic journey.

RESOLUTION NO. 313

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Holmestead Cheese Sales of Nicholsville is a business that reflects the best of what it means to be Nova Scotia Loyal; and

Whereas Holmestead was founded in 1985 by Nick and Susan Tziolas, who brought traditional feta-making to Atlantic Canada, and today, the business continues under the care of Susan and their son George, who operate the production facility and retail shop on Harmony Road in Kings West; and

Whereas for nearly four decades, the Tziolas family have been long-time residents and active members of our community, proudly crafting high-quality cheeses and Mediterranean foods that have earned a reputation far beyond the Valley;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize that Holmestead Cheese Sales is proof that when Nova Scotians choose local, they are not only getting exceptional products, they are also supporting families, communities, and our province's economy and thank Holmestead Cheese Sales and the Tziolas family for their accomplishments and their contribution to our local food economy.

RESOLUTION NO. 314

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

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Whereas Hutchinson Acres is a remarkable family-run farm in Aylesford that is a shining example of what it means to be Nova Scotia Loyal, owned and operated by Chris and Anna Hutchinson; and

Whereas Hutchinson Acres is known for producing premium maple syrup, honey, and a wide range of natural products; they also operate a popular café and retail store where the community can enjoy fresh, local offerings and take home the very best of what their farm produces; and

Whereas the Hutchinson family's dedication to sustainable farming, quality craftsmanship, and community connection has not only built a successful business but has also strengthened our local food economy

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Hutchinson Acres for their contributions to our local economy and remind us that being NS Loyal is about supporting local entrepreneurs and celebrating the hard work of Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 315

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nichols Farm Market is a cornerstone of our local agriculture and a shining example of what it means to be Nova Scotia Loyal; and

Whereas established in 1920 by Jeremiah Nichols, the farm has evolved over the decades into a thriving family operation. Today, Craig and Norma Nichols continue the legacy, working alongside their children, Dan and Sam, to cultivate a diverse range of crops, including apples, blueberries, raspberries, corn, and soybeans. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices and community engagement has made Nichols Farm Market a trusted destination for fresh, locally grown produce.

Whereas beyond their farm operations, Nichols Farm Market operates a vibrant market in Berwick, offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal products. Their U-Pick fields provide a hands-on experience for families and visitors, fostering a deeper connection to the land and the food we consume.

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Nichols Farm Market as exemplifying the spirit of NS Loyal, supporting local businesses that enrich our communities and strengthen our economy.

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RESOLUTION NO. 316

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas North Mountain Fine Coffees in Berwick is a local business that has become a true hub for community connection and exceptional coffee, owned and operated by Austin and Stephanie Anderson; and

Whereas North Mountain Fine Coffees is known for roasting high-quality beans and crafting beverages that showcase the care, skill, and passion of local producers, and beyond serving a fantastic cup of coffee, they create a space where neighbors gather, ideas are shared, and community life thrives; and

Whereas supporting businesses like North Mountain Fine Coffees isn't just about enjoying local products - it's about keeping our economy vibrant, helping families succeed, and celebrating the talent we have right here at home. That's the essence of being NS Loyal: choosing local, supporting local, and taking pride in the incredible people and businesses in our province

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize North Mountain Fine Coffees' contributions to our economy and community and continue encouraging Nova Scotians to continue supporting local businesses that make our communities stronger.

RESOLUTION NO. 317

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Sunday, September 7^th, Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope was held in Berwick for the first time; and

Whereas this important event was organized by local advocate Charlotte Dorey, whose leadership and dedication brought our community together in a powerful way; and

[Page 2270]

Whereas the walk raised over $3,000 in support of ovarian cancer research in Canada, a tremendous achievement for a first-time event. Beyond the funds raised, the walk helped increase awareness, provide hope, and strengthen support for individuals and families affected by ovarian cancer.

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Charlotte Dorey, the volunteers, participants, and everyone who contributed to this success. Their efforts are a shining example of how small communities can make a big difference.

RESOLUTION NO. 318

By: Chris Palmer (Kings West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Mike and Shelly Peters are dedicated entrepreneurs and the proud owners of Smokehouse Brewery in Berwick; and

Whereas Mike and Shelly's passion for craft brewing and commitment to quality have made Smokehouse Brewery a standout destination in our community. Through their hard work and creativity, they have built a business that not only produces exceptional craft beer but also fosters a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Their brewery has become a gathering place that supports local events and musicians, strengthening the cultural and economic fabric of our region; and

Whereas small businesses like Smokehouse Brewery are the backbone of our local economy, and Mike and Shelly's dedication to their craft and community is truly commendable;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Mike and Shelly Peters for their entrepreneurial spirit and contribution to the town of Berwick.

RESOLUTION NO. 319

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Iris Piercey, the esteemed founder of Iris Interiors based in Timberlea, Nova Scotia, stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of interior design and is committed to upholding a strict code of ethics and professional conduct; and

[Page 2271]

Whereas Iris Interiors specializes in providing luxury design services tailored for busy professionals and the firm's mission is to create customized spaces that convey the essence of their clients without a single word being spoken that is indicative of the client's unique personality; and

Whereas the goal at Iris Interiors is to deliver exceptional results through collaboration and superior project management, by seeking current information and developments in various critical areas such as materials, technology, flammability standards, and design,

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Iris and her team for their dedicated service to transform spaces into luxurious havens that resonate with elegance and sophistication, ensuring every project exemplifies their client's vision to perfection.

RESOLUTION NO. 320

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Coke Canada bottling plant is a proud, family-owned Canadian bottling company that takes immense pride in distributing beverages that Canadians know and love, and whose commitment goes beyond quenching thirst and is equally dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve; and

Whereas in honour of Earth Day, Coke Canada hosted a morning of community action, connection, and clean-up and dedicated a team from the Coke bottling plant that rolled up their sleeves to clean up the grounds surrounding their building, as well as the beautiful BLT Rails to Trails located alongside the Coke plant; and

Whereas this event not only provided an opportunity to contribute to the community but also offered a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of this local business where the business owners were eager to introduce their incredible team to the community and showcase the dedication and hard work that goes into every bottle they produce;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing this family-owned business for their positive impact on the environment and their efforts to strengthen the bonds within our community.

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RESOLUTION NO. 321

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas LakeCity Works is an organization that embodies the spirit of creativity, hard work, and inclusion, and their recent project is designing and installing beautiful furniture in the villages of Upper and Lower Prospect; and

Whereas the furniture they have installed is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, providing residents and visitors alike with welcoming spaces to gather, relax and enjoy the natural beauty; and

Whereas the pieces of furniture stand as more than just amenities, they are symbols of the community spirit and collaboration contributing to the sense of belonging and well-being among residents making the villages more beautiful and united;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in giving our heartfelt appreciation to LakeCity Works for their extraordinary contribution to Upper and Lower Prospect.

RESOLUTION NO. 322

By: Ryan Robicheau (Clare)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Brian Comeau, who passed away in June, was a devoted husband to Lisa, a proud father to Daralyn and Jeremy, and a loving grandfather to Nyomi; and

Whereas he served as a municipal councillor in Clare for over 20 years and was a dedicated, selfless member of the community, always willing to help others without seeking recognition, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him; and

Whereas his legacy of kindness, dedication, and public service lives on through his children - especially through Daralyn, who serves as Clare's Constituency Assistant and continues her father's example by helping the people of Clare every day;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly pause to honor and remember the life of Brian Comeau, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, councillor, and community leader whose contributions will not be forgotten and whose memory lives on in the hearts of many.

RESOLUTION NO. 323

By: Ryan Robicheau (Clare)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Circles of Grief is a volunteer-led group that provides compassion, support, and healing to individuals navigating the difficult journey of grief; and

Whereas the group offers a safe and understanding space where those coping with loss are seen, heard, and supported, making a meaningful impact across the community; and

Whereas volunteers Joan Tufts, Anita Dugas, Holly Comeau, Odette Gaudet, Vivian Fahey, and Yvette Després have shown exceptional empathy, strength, and quiet leadership in helping others through their most vulnerable moments;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize and commend the important work of Circles of Grief and its dedicated volunteers for ensuring that no one has to face grief alone.

RESOLUTION NO. 324

By: Ryan Robicheau (Clare)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Havelock Fire Department is celebrating its 50^th anniversary, marking half a century of dedicated service, safety, and community spirit in Havelock and the surrounding region; and

Whereas since its founding, the department's firefighters have responded to countless emergencies with professionalism, courage, and compassion, exemplifying a strong commitment to protecting the community; and

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Whereas generations of volunteer firefighters have selflessly sacrificed time with their own families to serve and protect others, strengthening the community through their unwavering dedication;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and thank all past and present members of the Havelock Fire Department, along with their families, for over 50 years of exceptional service and commitment.

RESOLUTION NO. 325

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas it is with pure joy that I rise today to extend heartfelt congratulations to Domaine de Grand Pré Winery as they celebrate two remarkable achievements: their 25^th anniversary of excellence in Nova Scotia's wine industry and their recognition as a recipient of the 2025 Lieutenant Governor's Award of Excellence; and

Whereas for a quarter of a century, Domaine de Grand Pré has set the benchmark for winemaking in our province and their unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship has not only shaped the Annapolis Valley's reputation as a premier wine destination but has also elevated Nova Scotia wines on the national and international stage; and

Whereas the 2019 Blanc de Blanc, honoured with this year's Lieutenant Governor's Award, reflects their deep commitment to tradition, patience, and the unique terroir of the Annapolis Valley. It is a sparkling wine that embodies the elegance and character of our region;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in celebrating Domaine de Grand Pré for their outstanding contributions to the cultural and culinary landscape of Nova Scotia, and for the legacy they continue to build with every vintage.

RESOLUTION NO. 326

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

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I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I rise to congratulate Heavy Metal Heather on being named one of the Top Three Best Artists in the Annapolis Valley 2025; and

Whereas this well-deserved recognition highlights her incredible talent, creativity, and the bold energy she brings to the local arts scene; she adds edge, artistry, and passion to the cultural fabric of the Annapolis Valley; and

Whereas through her unique metalwork and handcrafted designs, she transforms raw materials into stunning works of art that capture both strength and beauty. Her business not only showcases exceptional craftsmanship but also inspires others by pushing the boundaries of traditional art and celebrating individuality. From custom jewelry and statement pieces to community art collaborations, her work leaves a lasting impression, both literally and creatively;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Heavy Metal Heather on this outstanding achievement as one of the Top Three Best Artists in the Annapolis Valley 2025.

RESOLUTION NO. 327

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I rise to congratulate the Coldbrook Lions Club on their 40-year anniversary; and

Whereas for four decades, they have served with dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making Coldbrook and the surrounding community a better place for all; and

Whereas their countless volunteer hours, generosity, and spirit of fellowship embody the true meaning of service. May this anniversary be a celebration of their past accomplishments and a source of inspiration for the years to come.

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking them and celebrating their incredible milestone.

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RESOLUTION NO. 328

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I recognize Holly Thompson, an outstanding Rotarian and community leader, who this year was named District Rotarian of the Year. Holly has served our region with extraordinary dedication as a long-time volunteer with Girl Guides of Canada, as treasurer of The Flower Cart, and through her leadership at Landmark East School. She has organized major community events, including the Atlantic region's largest soccer tournament and the annual Rotary Santa Claus Parade; and

Whereas within the Rotary Club of New Minas Sunrise, Holly is now in her fifth year as President. She has guided the Club through its Strategic Plan and led initiatives that strengthen food security in our community, including the Little Pantry program. For 15 years, she has also been part of the team delivering the Annual Golf Tournament, while chairing many successful events, including the Food for Thought Breakfast Program. At the District level, she is known for her leadership, expertise, and generosity of service; and

Whereas Holly also chairs the Rotary Global Grant Committee, which is addressing critical needs at Landmark East School by supporting upgraded technology, specialized equipment, and new programming for students in the Annapolis Valley;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me to recognize her remarkable contributions here today.

RESOLUTION NO. 329

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I am thrilled to congratulate Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards for their 2025 Lieutenant Governor's Award of Excellence; and

Whereas Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards exemplifies the art of winemaking through their dedication to sustainable practices, respect for the land, and relentless pursuit of excellence; and

[Page 2277]

Whereas their 2017 Small Lot Trio Brut is a testament to meticulous care from vineyard to bottle, showcasing the complexity and beauty that Nova Scotia's cool climate can offer. With a strong vision for the future and a deep respect for tradition, Lightfoot & Wolfville continues to shape the province's wine identity, inspiring both peers and wine lovers alike;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards for this incredibly well-deserved honour.

RESOLUTION NO. 330

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I congratulate the New Minas Rotary on 25 years of service; and

Whereas I wish to recognize them on reaching an incredible milestone: 25 years of dedicated service and leadership in our community. Over the past quarter century, they have consistently embodied the values of compassion, collaboration, and commitment to making a difference; and

Whereas through countless volunteer hours, fundraising initiatives, and community programs, they have touched the lives of so many across the region. Their unwavering support for local causes, youth development, and global service projects reflects the true spirit of Rotary and the strength of their members' shared vision. We are grateful for all they have done and continue to do to create lasting, positive change in New Minas and beyond.

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in celebrating 25 years of impact, and to many more years of service above self.

RESOLUTION NO. 331

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I rise to congratulate Noggins Corner Farm on being recognized as one of the Top Three Best Agriculture Businesses in the Annapolis Valley for 2025; and

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Whereas this well-earned achievement reflects their deep-rooted commitment to sustainable farming, community engagement, and agricultural excellence. Their contributions to the community, whether through partnerships with local schools, employment opportunities, or advocacy for Nova Scotia-grown produce, have a lasting impact on the region; and

Whereas for generations, Noggins Corner Farm has been more than just a farm; it's been a cornerstone of our local food system and a cherished destination for families and visitors alike. From their vibrant farm market and U-pick experiences to their educational programming and seasonal events, they consistently bring people closer to where their food comes from while supporting healthy, local living;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Noggins Corner Farm on their 2025 achievement of Top Three Best Agriculture Businesses in the Annapolis Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 332

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I rise to extend my sincere congratulations to the Old Orchard Inn on being named one of the Top Three Best Accommodations in the Annapolis Valley; and

Whereas this recognition is a testament to your long-standing commitment to excellence in hospitality, comfort, and service; and

Whereas for decades, the Old Orchard Inn has been more than just a place to stay; it has been a cornerstone of the local community. From hosting weddings, conferences, and cultural events to welcoming visitors from around the world, the Inn plays a vital role in supporting tourism, local employment, and economic growth in the region. With breathtaking views, warm Maritime hospitality, and a deep-rooted connection to the Valley's heritage, the Old Orchard Inn continues to be a beloved destination for both locals and travelers alike;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Old Orchard Inn and this well-earned accolade, and thank you for all you do for the Annapolis Valley.

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RESOLUTION NO. 333

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I recognize Shaun Whynacht, the creator and operator of Blue Cow Marketing; and

Whereas Shaun's commitment to supporting small businesses in our province has driven him to develop innovative, time-saving solutions. His work enables business owners to focus on growth rather than daily operations, fostering long-term sustainability; and

Whereas he finds great fulfillment in working with small businesses, inspired by their passion and dedication. As a business owner himself, Shaun understands the perseverance required to succeed and is devoted to helping others do the same;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in celebrating the dedication and hard work of Shaun Whynacht.

RESOLUTION NO. 334

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I rise to congratulate Sunken Escapes on being named one of the Top Three Best Accommodations in the Annapolis Valley; and

Whereas this recognition is a true reflection of the exceptional experience they provide to their guests and the unique, nature-immersive hospitality that sets them apart in our region. From their beautifully designed accommodations to the thoughtful approach to environmental stewardship, Sunken Escapes has become a shining example of how tourism and nature can coexist in harmony; and

Whereas this business not only offers a serene and unforgettable escape for visitors but also enriches our community by promoting sustainable tourism, supporting local artisans and businesses, and preserving the natural beauty that makes the Annapolis Valley so special. Whether guests are seeking tranquility, connection, or a deeper appreciation of the land, their offerings inspire both rest and reflection;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Sunken Escapes on their 2025 achievement of Top Three Best Accommodations in the Annapolis Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 335

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I recognize The Social Pup as The Valley's Best Pet Care Business; and

Whereas the Social Pup has been officially named The Valley's Best Pet Care Business, a testament to their exceptional service, dedication, and the trust they've built within the community; and

Whereas this recognition reflects both the hard work of the business and the overwhelming support from clients, family, friends, and the broader community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in celebrating The Social Pup on this well-deserved recognition and thank them for their ongoing contributions to the wellbeing of pets and their families across the Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 336

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I recognize Valley Sky as The Valley's Best Accommodation for 2025; and

Whereas Valley Sky has been officially recognized as The Valley's Best Accommodation for 2025, a title that reflects excellence in hospitality, guest experience, and dedication to quality service; and

Whereas Valley Sky continues to elevate the standard for accommodations in the region by offering luxury dome stays that blend comfort, nature, and sustainability, creating unforgettable experiences for visitors from near and far;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in celebrating Valley Sky and celebrating them for this outstanding achievement, and acknowledging them as a premier destination that enhances tourism and strengthens the sense of place in the Annapolis Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 337

By: Julie Vanexan (Kings South)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas I am honoured to recognize the achievement of the Wolfville Lions Club on reaching their 75^th anniversary; and

Whereas for three quarters of a century, they have demonstrated outstanding dedication to service, generosity, and community spirit; and

Whereas their tireless efforts, from supporting local initiatives to lending a helping hand wherever it's needed, have left a lasting impact on Wolfville and beyond. This anniversary is a testament to their members' hard work, fellowship, and unwavering commitment to the Lions' motto: We Serve.

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in celebrating this wonderful accomplishment. May their proud history continue to inspire future generations of Lions.

RESOLUTION NO. 338

By: John White (Glace Bay-Dominion)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Emancipation Day provides an opportunity to honour the history, resilience, and contributions of people of African descent in Nova Scotia and across Canada; and

Whereas the Sterling area of Glace Bay recently held a meaningful celebration of Emancipation Day, bringing together community members in music, storytelling, and fellowship; and

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Whereas James Jordan's tireless dedication and vision ensured the success of this event, creating a memorable gathering that fostered understanding, respect, and unity;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly commend James Jordan and all contributors to the Emancipation Day celebration in Sterling and recognize the importance of such events in strengthening community and advancing equality.

RESOLUTION NO. 339

By: John White (Glace Bay-Dominion)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in early July, the Glace Bay Fire Department Station 23, together with their colleagues from across the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, responded with extraordinary bravery to two major structure fires, working shoulder to shoulder for over 14 hours to save a local fish plant and several homes; and

Whereas their efforts, supported by the 911 Dispatch Centre, the CBRM Police Force, EHS paramedics, local businesses, community members, and the families who stand behind these first responders, minimized damage and protected lives; and

Whereas Fire Chief John Chant provided steady leadership, deep commitment, and the ability to unite so many in a moment of crisis, ensuring an effective and courageous response;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly commend the firefighters of the Glace Bay Fire Department Station 23, their colleagues across CBRM, and all who assisted during these emergencies, for their bravery and dedication, and extend special thanks and congratulations to Fire Chief John Chant for his outstanding leadership in a time of crisis.

RESOLUTION NO. 340

By: John White (Glace Bay-Dominion)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

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Whereas Shoppers Drug Mart Glace Bay has been recognized with the People's Choice Award from the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia, reflecting the outstanding dedication, professionalism, and compassion of the pharmacy clinic team in providing essential health care services such as prescribing for minor ailments, vaccinations, and chronic disease management; and

Whereas the Shoppers Drug Mart Glace Bay pharmacy clinic has become a trusted and vital resource in the community, improving timely access to healthcare for countless individuals; and

Whereas the fact that this award was determined by public vote demonstrates the high level of trust, gratitude, and appreciation that the people of Glace Bay hold for the clinic and its staff;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Shoppers Drug Mart Glace Bay on receiving the People's Choice Award from the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia, and commend the entire team for their dedication, service, and commitment to the health and well-being of their community.

RESOLUTION NO. 341

By: John White (Glace Bay-Dominion)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Teddy Morrison, a proud son of Cape Breton, has shown that resilience, determination, and a great sense of humour can carry a person through life's challenges; and

Whereas through his book, The Adventures of a Man with One Hand, Teddy shares his journey with honesty and wit, turning what many would see as a limitation into a source of strength and inspiration; and

Whereas his storytelling, filled with heart, laughter, and perspective, serves as both a celebration of perseverance and a reminder of the power of living life without excuses;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Teddy Morrison on the publication of his book, and commend him for his ability to inspire, uplift, and bring joy to readers across Nova Scotia and beyond.

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RESOLUTION NO. 342

By: Hon. Brian Comer (Cape Breton East)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Ivan Doncaster is turning 80 years old on Saturday October 4, 2025; and

Whereas Ivan dedicated so much of his life to public service both as a former CBRM Councillor, a board member for many worthy community organizations, and fund-raised extensively for organizations such as Heart and Stroke, the MS Society, Canadian Cancer Society, Salvation Army, and more; and

Whereas Ivan's birthday celebration will be held tomorrow evening in East Bay and will be an event attended by his beloved wife Viola and many of his friends, family members, and neighbours;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Ivan's many contributions to his community over the years and send best wishes to Mr. Ivan Doncaster on the occasion of his 80^th birthday.

RESOLUTION NO. 343

By: Hon. Brian Comer (Cape Breton East)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Lynn Filmore initiated a heritage display in Marion Bridge as part of the annual Mira Gala festival starting with displays located at St. Columba Hall; and

Whereas her exhibition quickly outgrew the space and was moved to the Marion Bridge Community Hall in 2010 and has since evolved into an important part of the Mira Gala, attracting large crowds and encouraging social interactions; and

Whereas Lynn Filmore's dedication and community spirit are an inspiration to all citizens of Marion Bridge and the surrounding areas at a fair that continues to have a positive impact on the community celebrating accomplishments, commemorating achievements, sharing memories, and fostering community pride;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Lynn Filmore for her invaluable contribution to the Mira Gala and the Marion Bridge Community.

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RESOLUTION NO. 344

By: Hon. Becky Druhan (Lunenburg West)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Jane van Kessel, Rebecca McDow, Kylie Buchanan, and Jada Buchanan of Parkview Education Centre represented Nova Scotia in U17 Women's Soccer at the 2025 Canada Games in St. John's, Newfoundland; and

Whereas these talented Parkview Education Centre athletes from Hebbville, Italy Cross, and Bridgewater helped capture the bronze medal in a thrilling penalty shootout against Alberta, showcasing determination and excellence on the national stage; and

Whereas their journey from local mini soccer and Thunder FC to South Shore United and Halifax County United reflects years of dedication, skill development, and competition at the highest level in the province, supported by strong community and family involvement;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jane, Rebecca, Kylie, and Jada, and extend appreciation to their coaches, families, and communities for fostering such inspiring athletic achievement.

RESOLUTION NO. 345

By: Hon. Greg Morrow (Guysborourgh-Tracadie)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Harbourview Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating 50 years of service to the communities they serve in Guysborough-Tracadie following their inception by Rev. Danny Gibson in 1975; and

Whereas for five decades, the dedicated men and women of this department have answered the call in times of fires, floods, vehicle collisions and other emergencies in a coverage area of 76 kilometres that includes the communities of New Harbour, Drum Head, Isaacs Harbour, and Country Harbour, while also providing mutual aid to neighbouring communities including Larry's River, Sherbrooke, and Port Bickerton; and

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Whereas this milestone is not only a celebration of the department's history, but also a tribute to the generations of volunteers who built and continue to sustain the department, including two volunteers who have been there since the beginning and received their 50-year pins during the officials anniversary banquet September 27^th;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize that our volunteer firefighters in rural Nova Scotia are second to none and extend heartfelt congratulations to the Harbourview Volunteer Fire Department on 50 years of dedicated service.

RESOLUTION NO. 346

By: Hon. Greg Morrow (Guysborourgh-Tracadie)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Scotia Pallets in Goshen has been contributing to the local economy for 38 years, providing steady employment opportunities and supporting families in the area; and

Whereas Herman Long and his son Joe have shown what it means to sustain a business with pride, resilience, and dedication; and

Whereas operating a business in rural Nova Scotia can have its challenges, but it is the hard work of Herman, Joe and their team who continue to make it happen;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Herman and Joe Long for running a successful business, their loyalty to our province, and their ongoing contributions to the people of Guysborough-Tracadie.

RESOLUTION NO. 347

By: Hon. Greg Morrow (Guysborourgh-Tracadie)

I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas two dedicated community leaders, Miles and Elizabeth Connolly, recently stepped down from their long-time roles running the Guysborough and Area Food Bank; and

Whereas Miles and Elizabeth have been the steady hands and compassionate hearts behind this vital organization for 20 years and their tireless efforts ensured individuals and families facing difficult times could rely on the food bank for support, dignity, and care, which earned a "Standard of Excellence" designation from Food Banks Canada in 2024; and

Whereas Miles and Elizabeth always gave generously of their time and energy, going above and beyond by organizing food drives, donations, managing day-to-day operations, and lending a listening ear to those in need while putting the needs of their clients first, even on days when the food bank was closed when Miles would go in or deliver food if needed;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly offer our sincere gratitude to Miles and Elizabeth Connolly for their amazing kindness and commitment, which is certainly something to aspire to as an example of service to community.

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