Nova Scotia Legislature

June 18, 2001

Hansard -- Mon., June 18, 2001 HANSARD 01-52

HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

DEBATES AND PROCEEDINGS

Speaker: Honourable Murray Scott

Published by Order of the Legislature by Hansard Reporting Services and printed by the Queen's Printer.

Annual subscriptions available from the Office of the Speaker.

Second Session

MONDAY, JUNE 18, 2001

TABLE OF CONTENTS							PAGE
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4933
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. D. Downe						4933
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4934
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Manning MacDonald						4934
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4934
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. K. MacAskill						4935
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. J. Pye						4935
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. D. Wilson						4936
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4936
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. M. Samson						4936
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4937
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4937
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Dr. J. Smith						4938
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. J. Pye						4939
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. R. MacKinnon						4939
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4939
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4940
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4940
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. J. Pye						4941
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4941
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4942
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4942
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. J. Pye						4943
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4943
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4944
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4944
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. J. Pye						4944
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4944
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4945
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4945
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. J. Pye						4945
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4946
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4946
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. Robert Chisholm						4947
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. F. Corbett						4947
	Health: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4947
NOTICES OF MOTION:
	Res. 1673, Health - Bill No. 68: Introduction - Genesis,
		(by Mr. F. Corbett), Mr. D. Dexter					4948
	Res. 1674, Health - Nurses: Prem. Office/Telephone -
		Law Amendments Comm./Visit, Mr. Manning MacDonald					4949
	Res. 1675, Med. Soc.: Health Min. - Heed, (by Mr. H. Epstein),
		Ms. Maureen MacDonald					4950
	Res. 1676, Gov't. (N.S.): Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. D. Downe						4951
	Res. 1677, Health - Min./Premier: Bill No. 68 - Introduction Effects,
		Mr. Robert Chisholm					4951
	Res. 1678, Health - Professionals/Nurses: Atl. Can. - Competition,
		Dr. J. Smith					4952
	Res. 1679, Premier - Priorities Re-examine: Bill No. 68 Withdraw -
		Nurses Respect, Mr. K. MacAskill					4953
	Res. 1680, Lbr. Legislation - Bill No. 68: Effect - Acknowledge,
		Mr. F. Corbett					4954
	Res. 1681, Gov't. (N.S.) - Nurses: Treatment - Shame Acknowledge,
		Mr. D. Wilson					4955
	Res. 1682, Gov't. (N.S.) - Bill No. 68: Mike Harris - Emulation,
		(by Mr. H. Epstein), Ms. Maureen MacDonald					4955
	Res. 1683, Health - Negotiation Style: Premier - Effects Recognize,
		Mr. B. Boudreau					4956
	Res. 1684, Premier - Bill No. 68: Withdraw - Negotiations Open,
		Mr. Robert Chisholm					4957
	Res. 1685, Gov't. (N.S.) - Bill No. 68: Subsequent Legislation -
		Reconsider, Mr. M. Samson					4958
	Res. 1686, Seniors - Bill No. 68: Consultation Lack - Premier Apologize,
		Mr. J. Pye					4958
	Res. 1687, Gov't. (N.S.) - Bill No. 68: Withdraw - Fair Contract Offer,
		Mr. D. Wilson					4959
	Res. 1688, Nelson, Hiram & Kathleen - Cole Hbr. Wetland: Donation -
		Thanks Convey, (by Mr. F. Corbett), Mr. K. Deveaux					4960
			Vote - Affirmative				4962
	Res. 1689, Premier - Image/Public Policy: Priority - Condemn,
		Mr. D. Downe					4960
	Res. 1690, Gov't. (N.S.) - Health & Safety (N.S.): Actions - Threat,
		Mr. M. Samson					4962
	Res. 1691, Premier/Health Min. - Bill No. 68: Withdraw -
		Bargaining Allow, (by Mr. H. Epstein), Mr. W. Estabrooks					4963
	Res. 1692, Gov't. (N.S.) - Bill No. 68 Withdraw: Nurses -
		Apologies Offer, Mr. K. MacAskill					4963
	Res. 1693, Health - Care System: Hamm Gov't. - Legacy,
		(by Mr. Robert Chisholm), Mr. G. Steele					4964
	Res. 1694, Health Min./Premier - Nurses/Health Care Workers:
		Apologies - Offer, Mr. B. Boudreau					4965
	Res. 1695, Health- Physician Recruitment (Rural): Contract Negotiations -
		Effect, (by Mr. J. Pye), Mr. J. MacDonell					4966
	Res. 1696, Health - Professionals: Recruitment/Retention -
		Methods Improve, (by Mr. Manning MacDonald), Mr. P. MacEwan					4966
	Res. 1697, Gov't. (N.S.) - Health & Safety (N.S.): Protection Ensure -
		Partisan Campaign End, (by Mr. F. Corbett), Mr. D. Dexter					4967
	Res. 1698, Health - Min.: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Dr. J. Smith						4968
	Res. 1699, Gov't. (N.S.) Bill No. 68: Withdraw - Fair Contract Offer,
		(by Mr. Manning MacDonald), Mr. W. Gaudet					4969
	Res. 1700, Seniors - Health & Safety Protection: Premier -
		Bill No. 68 Withdraw, (by Mr. Robert Chisholm), Mr. J. Holm					4970
	Res. 1701, Health - Nurses: Recruitment/Retention - Funding Increase,
		Mr. R. MacKinnon					4971
	Res. 1702, Gov't. (N.S.) - Health: Workers - Respect,
		(by Mr. J. Pye), Mr. J. MacDonell					4971
	Res. 1703, Lbr. Relations: Bill No. 68 - Effect, Mr. R. MacKinnon						4972
	Res. 1704, Health - Care Crisis: Creators - Name,
		(by Mr. F. Corbett), Mr. K. Deveaux					4973
	Res. 1705, Gov't. (N.S.): Bill No. 68 - Withdraw, Mr. H. Epstein						4973
	Res. 1706, Health - Min.: Bill No. 68 - Withdraw,
		(by Mr. Robert Chisholm), Mr. G. Steele					4974
	Res. 1707, Whitney Pier - Soil Testing: Methods - Residents' Impact,
		Mr. F. Corbett					4975
	Res. 1708, Health - Care: Blue Book Promise - Premier Amend,
		Mr. H. Epstein					4976
	Res. 1709, Seniors - Health Care System: Lack - Apologies Offer,
		(by Mr. Robert Chisholm), Mr. J. Holm					4976
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
	PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING:
		No. 68, Healthcare Services Continuation (2001) Act					4977
			Amendment [debate resumed]				4977
				Mr. Manning MacDonald			4978
				Hon. M. Baker			4993
				Mr. F. Corbett			4997
				Mr. R. MacKinnon			5010
				Mr. J. Pye			5025
				Mr. B. Boudreau			5041
				Mr. H. Epstein			5052
				Mr. D. Downe			5066
				Mr. D. Dexter			5080
				Mr. K. MacAskill			5093
				Ms. Maureen MacDonald			5103
				Mr. D. Wilson			5114
				Mr. W. Estabrooks			5131
				Mr. M. Samson			5146
				Mr. J. Holm			5165
				Mr. W. Gaudet			5176
				Mr. K. Deveaux			5187
				Mr. Robert Chisholm			5205
				Mr. J. MacDonell			5218
					Adjournment moved		5233
HOUSE RECESSED AT 7:28 P.M.							5233
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 7:29 P.M.							5233
						Vote - Negative	5234
					Amendment - Vote - Negative		5235
			Hon. R. Russell				5235
				Previous Question Put			5235
			Mr. Manning MacDonald				5236
			Mr. H. Epstein				5251
			Mr. D. Downe				5266
				Adjourned debate			5271
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Tue., June 19th at 12:01 a.m.							5272
NOTICE OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
	Res. 1710, McLaughlin, Audrey/Uhlman, Helen - Tragedy Prevention:
		Action - Commend, Mr. F. Chipman					5273

[Page 4929]

HALIFAX, MONDAY, JUNE 18, 2001

Fifty-eighth General Assembly

Second Session

12:01 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Murray Scott

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Mr. Brooke Taylor, Mr. Kevin Deveaux, Mr. David Wilson

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. We will begin the daily routine.

The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, on a point of personal privilege. There has been a very disturbing trend that has been followed in this House it seems in the last number of months, especially when there have been Nova Scotians who have come here to show some concern about a matter being discussed here. Clearly the increased presence of police officers has been very distressing, now with steel barricades put on the sidewalks in front of Province House. With all due respect, I feel more like I am going to Dorchester Penitentiary than coming to the House of Joseph Howe and the House of Nova Scotians.

Tonight, again, there is a disturbing trend. It has been the tradition that visitors coming to visit our House are permitted to come into the lobby and register, and once the House has begun, and you have instructed for the gallery doors to be open, they are then permitted to come upstairs. For some reason, this evening, Nova Scotians who came to visit this House were kept outside the gates of the parking lot and couldn't even get in, and were instructed by uniformed police officers that they were not permitted to enter Province House until being told so at a later time. I am extremely concerned about this.

4929

[Page 4930]

Mr. Speaker, I have spoken a number of times about the issue of locking gates and other security measures here, which I felt were very oppressive, and I am wondering if you could apprise this House - I think as elected members here, we all have the right to know - why Nova Scotians tonight were once again kept outside the gates of Province House and not even permitted to come in and register. In fact, in checking before we began today in session, people were still lining up to register because they had been kept outside the gates and not permitted to come in. So I would ask you, as Speaker of this House, as the person who polices this Chamber I guess, if one could say, could you apprise members of this House why this action was taken and what the justification is for keeping Nova Scotians locked out of this House unnecessarily?

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, if I may rise to speak in support of the point of privilege raised by the member for Richmond, I too expressed some concern, having witnessed a guest to this House being kept behind the gates on Hollis Street, not being required in this House. I understand that you and other people responsible for security within the House of Assembly have been concerned and have heightened security, but I think surely we recognize that we need to balance this with the need to be accessible and to ensure that people have access. We can't get in this door, the door from Granville Street, and can only get in through the door from Hollis Street, and there are security guards down there to ensure that people register when they come in.

I don't understand and I would say, along with the member for Richmond, I question, Mr. Speaker, why we need to go so far to keep people out on the street when we should welcome them into their House, to watch the proceedings.

MR. SPEAKER: Are there any other interventions? Certainly I take very seriously the issue brought forward by the honourable member for Richmond, as well as the support from the honourable member for Halifax Atlantic. I want to assure the House and all members that by no means are we attempting to solely prevent Nova Scotians from entering the House, other than the fact that there are several issues before the House right now. You mentioned about the gates. The HRM police felt that because of the reported number we can probably expect in the near vicinity over the next few days, particularly for safety reasons, the Speaker has no control over outside the grounds (Interruption)

Order, please. I am trying to attempt to answer the question on behalf of the honourable member for Richmond, if the honourable member for Dartmouth North would give me the opportunity, please.

The issue of public safety is paramount and if we do see the numbers arrive here over the next few days as we anticipate and do expect, we want to ensure that those people have their safety protected as well, the people who want to visit this House.

[Page 4931]

The issue of coming into the building itself, I take that issue very seriously as well and we want to ensure that people enter the building in an orderly fashion, that they have the opportunity to come here. If they come here in the hundreds, we have to have some sort of way of at least processing in an orderly fashion. That's why this evening, I believe that you had seen that centre gate was closed, but when it was brought to my attention I went down to speak to the gentleman in charge. Obviously we don't have the numbers here tonight that we could have seen and people are allowed in, as you see in the gallery today, and the processes are as they normally have been.

What we are trying to do is to attempt to ensure that if the numbers do arrive over the next few days, as we expect they will, that they will be able to enter this place as they normally would and as the fire marshal will allow in a safe and orderly fashion.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: I appreciate what you have said and again I say that the need to be cautious, to ensure there is protection for people coming into the House as well as members, is important, but we also need to make sure there is access. One of the points that you made about worrying about great numbers coming in the days ahead - and I just want to urge some caution upon you and other people responsible that we don't overreact to what we think might happen, that we don't bring in measures that would exacerbate an already heightened situation with respect to relations between people inside and outside this Chamber. I would urge that we be careful, for example, that this whole place isn't locked down the way it was during the janitors' dispute a few weeks ago. All that did, I would suggest to you - I don't mean to be critical of the decision makers - what that did was that heightened the sense that people were being shut out, that they weren't being listened to, that there were barriers between the people that they elected and their House and themselves. I don't think we want to go there. I understand we want this to be orderly, we want to make sure that people inside and outside are protected, but surely, we need to be careful and balance the concerns here and make sure that we don't add to concerns or to problems that may arise.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I certainly appreciate the explanation that you have provided. I appreciate the concern that there might be increased numbers arriving here, but with all due respect, I think it was very clear this evening that wasn't the case. There might have been 20, 30 people waiting outside and the idea that they are behind a locked gate and there are four or five uniformed officers along with our regular security here at the House and between them they weren't able to get them, in an orderly fashion, to come in and register, I think, is quite unnecessary to say the least. I do appreciate your comments that what takes place outside the Chamber is beyond your control. I understand that what you are saying is that the metal gates that have been put along the sidewalk were done so by HRM

[Page 4932]

and not a request of this Chamber. One thing, as the member for Halifax Atlantic pointed out, the appearances here of being open and accountable in this province - I found it extremely disturbing this evening that when I parked my vehicle in our parking lot tonight, that I had to park next to a HRM paddy wagon.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member for Richmond has the floor.

MR. SAMSON: As I was saying, I understand what you are saying. We can't control what happens outside the gates of this House, but as I said tonight, I was very disturbed to see that where I parked here within the gates at Province House, that I am parking next to an HRM paddy wagon. I think, that sends a very dangerous message to Nova Scotians to come visit this House. I think it is serious enough to see armed uniformed officers greeting them when they come here and then to see a paddy wagon parked in our parking lot here waiting and ready to go, I think is extremely serious and oppressive and I think as the member for Halifax Atlantic . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Thank you. I have certainly heard the suggestion and recommendation by the honourable members and I will certainly take that into consideration in making those decisions in the future. However, I am ruling that it is not a point of privilege. It does not prevent the honourable member from doing his business in the House here this evening.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, on a point of personal privilege. The fact if we watch the proceedings and being very cognizant of the concern for safety here, if we watch the proceedings in other provincial jurisdictions as well as in the Parliament of Canada, we will see that the Speakers of those respective jurisdictions allow sufficient time for the spectators to enter the galleries before the proceedings begin as well as to make provision for those to be able to enter on a regular flow basis during the course of the proceedings. I think the message being sent here is that the people of Nova Scotia are, in a very subtle way, being prevented from entering at the beginning of the proceedings, given the fact that there is increased security around. I can appreciate the government being a little bit apprehensive about security measures, because of some rather difficult pieces of legislation that they feel are before the House.

[12:15 a.m.]

I think we have to be very cognizant that we don't turn this into a police state. I would ask that we reflect on the fact that there is a balance between the needs and the eyes of a police officer versus the eyes and the needs of politicians, that we aspire to represent the people of Nova Scotia.

[Page 4933]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. As well, I appreciate the comments by the honourable member for Cape Breton West. I am certainly going to ensure that the members of the public are in the gallery before the daily routine proceeds.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I rise to introduce a petition. The operative phrase reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68, and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Lunenburg West.

MR. DONALD DOWNE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill 68.

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: '. . . will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

Whereas the Tory Platform commits to: 'Working with the nursing profession to make sure the work environment offers a rewarding and positive experience where nurses know they can properly care for their patients, where they know they are valued and where they are empowered to have input into influencing clinical practice outcomes.'; and,

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68, and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

I have affixed my signature to the bottom of this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 4934]

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I, too, have a petition on Bill No. 68. The operative clause reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68, and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." This is signed by 10 persons, and a number of them are RNs. I have also affixed my signature.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I also have a petition on Bill No. 68. "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68, and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." This is signed by 14 concerned residents of Nova Scotia, and I have affixed my signature.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition that has been signed by some 14, 15 people involved in the health care sector. If I may, I would like to read the petition.

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: '. . . will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Mr. Speaker, I have affixed my signature to this petition.

[Page 4935]

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Victoria.

MR. KENNETH MACASKILL: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68.

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: '. . . will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for the health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, there are 14 names on this petition, including mine.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on behalf of 10 signatures and the petition reads:

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: '. . .will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

[Page 4936]

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Glace Bay.

MR. DAVID WILSON: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68, which bears the names of 13 people from throughout the province involved in the health care industry, and the operative phrase reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my name to it.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I am submitting a petition signed by 10 people, including myself, the operative phrase being, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I have a petition here in regard to Bill No. 68 and the operative clause reads:

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: ' . . .will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

[Page 4937]

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, this petition is signed by 13 health care professionals and nurses, and I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition on Bill No. 68. This petition is signed by 10 persons, a number of them RNs, and I have also affixed my signature. The operative clause of the petition reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I table this.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, if I may, before I introduce a petition, I would like to introduce visitors to the gallery. There are two RNs here, I believe. One is from Lawrencetown and one from Hants East. I don't know exactly what gallery they are in. Karen Belfountain and Janice Nicholson. They are both here as interested observers and, of course, people who are directly affected by Bill No. 68. They are here at nearly 12:30 a.m., but that is not new for them, because, as we know, most nurses in the Province of Nova Scotia work pretty much around the clock. I would like to ask Karen and Janice if they would please rise and receive the warm welcome of the members of the Chamber. (Applause)

If I may, Mr. Speaker, I have a petition here signed by some dozen people involved in health care and the petition is again with respect to Bill No. 68, the operative clause is as follows:

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: '. . . will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

[Page 4938]

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker I have, in the usual manner affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

DR. JAMES SMITH: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68, the operative clause is as follows:

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: '. . . will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and,

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, this is signed by 13 residents throughout the South Shore and the Valley of Nova Scotia and I have affixed my signature to the bottom. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

[Page 4939]

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, if I may be permitted first to do an introduction. I want to introduce some people in the gallery who are here watching this evening the outrageous abuse of legislative power by a government in the Province of Nova Scotia. Those individuals are Carolyn Kunz, RN, Armdale; Susan Allen, RN, Chebucto; Maureen Landry, Clayton Park and Annette Ernest Lan, Timberlea-Lakeside-Beechville. I would ask the House to give them a warm welcome. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, on the petition, I beg leave to present a petition on Bill No. 68 and the operative clause is as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to the 10 names on this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition with regard to Bill No. 68, the operative clause essentially states that the petitioners are opposed to Bill No. 68 on the principles of fairness and democratic rights and I have affixed my signature to this particular petition and would so table.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition. The operative clause is as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

[12:30 a.m.]

Mr. Speaker, there are 10 names of health care workers, and I have attached mine. Before I sit I would like to do an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre on an introduction.

[Page 4940]

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, in our gallery tonight we have Dean C. Smith, RN of Hammond Plains/Bedford; Joanne Kline, RN, ICU, from the Lakeview area; Janice Dempsey Stewart, RN of Wolfville; and Kate Dwyer, QE II, she lives in Halifax South. Could they stand and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I have a petition to present, but if I may be permitted an introduction before I proceed to that, I would like to draw the attention of the members of this House to the presence, in the gallery today, of a number of RNs who have come to watch the proceedings that they have heard so much about. I would like to call upon them to rise and be recognized.

We have present with us this evening, Marie Burden, resident of Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage; Carol Allen, likewise a resident of Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage; we have Skye Nicholson, a resident of Halifax Citadel; we have Mary Cromwell, a resident of Halifax-Bedford Basin; and we have Carolyn Doucette, a resident of Timberlea-Prospect. I wonder if these people would rise and receive the acknowledgement and welcome of the House. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition having to do with Bill No. 68. It is signed by 10 persons, most of them RNs and I have affixed my signature as well. The operative clause of this petition reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I want to table a petition, but first, if I may, with your permission, I would like to make an introduction. I received a note from a guest in our gallery opposite from a gentleman who has worked in the health care sector now for 27 years at the former Victoria General Hospital and the QE II Health Sciences Centre site now. He is a lab assistant at the QE II Health Sciences Centre for Shared Lab Services. His name is Matthew Dubois, and he is extremely upset about Bill No. 68, its implications and the way the health care workers are being treated. Mr. Dubois has taken time tonight to come down and watch the debate. I would like him to rise, and I would ask all members to give him the usual warm welcome. (Applause)

[Page 4941]

Mr. Speaker, if I may, I would like to table a petition dealing with Bill No. 68, that talks about all the bad things that the Tories have done, the Premier and the Minister of Health, and I would review the operative clause which says, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, there are - I should count these - about a dozen signatures, on this petition, of health care workers. I have followed procedure and signed it as well.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, I have before me a petition as well, which I would like to table before this House. It has 10 signatures and I have affixed my signature as well. The operative clause reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, before I table this petition, with your indulgence I would like to do an introduction. I would like to introduce, in the gallery tonight, Bill Jewells, who works 6 Lane at the QE II and he is from the Fall River area; Bev Mercer, 9B, VG site and she is from Fairview; Hélène Berubé, 9B, VG site, and she is from Bedford; Melanie Murphy, 9B, VG site, from Dartmouth; and Jeannette Piché, 9B, VG site, Dartmouth. If they would stand and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition that says, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 4942]

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I have a petition but, before I do that, I wonder if I might introduce a number of visitors to the gallery this evening? We have with us four RNs - I would like to introduce them by name - plus one individual who calls himself simply a "concerned citizen" and they are all here with respect to Bill No. 68. I would like to draw the attention of the House to the presence in the gallery of Ruth Downie, a resident of Halifax Citadel; Neila MacDonald, a resident of Halifax Needham; Catherine Butler, a resident of Timberlea-Prospect; Annette Ryan, a resident of Halifax Bedford Basin - these are all the RNs - and Paul Hebert, a resident of Timberlea-Prospect. I wonder if they would rise and be acknowledged by the members of the House. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I wish to table a petition concerning Bill No. 68. It is signed by 10 persons, a number of them nurses, and the operative clause of this petition reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, before I read my petition, if I may I would like to do an introduction and bring to your attention that in one of galleries, and we will know when she stands up, there is an RN from Spryfield, which is in the Halifax Atlantic constituency. Julie Allan-MacLean is here to witness the debate on Bill No. 68, a piece of legislation that deeply concerns Julie and her colleagues. She is here to not only listen to what is being said but, by her presence, to express her concern. I would ask Julie to please rise and receive the warm welcome of the Legislature. (Applause)

I take my glasses off, and not only can't I see, but I can't think.

Mr. Speaker, I have a petition here. It is with respect to Bill No. 68 and it reads as follows:

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: ' . . .will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and

Whereas a Tory Platform commits to: 'Working with the nursing profession to make sure the work environment offers a rewarding and positive experience where nurses know they can properly care for their patients, where they know they are valued and where they are empowered to have input into influencing clinical practice outcomes.'; and

[Page 4943]

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, there are about one dozen concerned citizens, health care workers here, and I have properly affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, if I may be permitted, I would like to do an introduction before I present the petition. I would like to introduce from Dartmouth North Martha Brown in the west gallery, a staff nurse for 26 years; Kenda McKinley, a staff nurse for 16 years from Dartmouth North; Vicki-Lynn DeGazio, a staff nurse who has been there for 20 years in Dartmouth as a cardiac operating room nurse, where the procedures are cancelled on a continuous basis because of no nurses to open up the beds. I would hope the House would give those individuals in the west gallery a warm welcome. (Applause)

I also beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68 and I have affixed my signature to this petition, the operative clause is as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68 and the operative clause is as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." There are 11 signatures and I have affixed mine.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 4944]

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68. It is signed by 14 individuals, some of them identifying themselves as RNs and the operative clause reads as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I will be tabling a petition that was submitted to me by a number of health care workers and the operative clause reads as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, you, I am sure can appreciate as can I how upset people are to fill out these petitions and to send them here to be read into the record. I have affixed my signature and do so table.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, once again I rise to table a petition on Bill No. 68, the operative clause reads as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition, with the operative clause as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." There are 11 names and I have affixed my signature to it.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

[Page 4945]

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I have yet another petition on Bill No. 68. It is signed by 10 persons each one of whom identifies themselves as an RN. The operative clause reads as follows, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: I am going to read a petition, but before I do I would like to make a further introduction. This person didn't send a note in, but I do know who he is and I am sure other members of the House do, as well. I am referring, of course, to Rick Clarke, who is President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour. Rick, of course, represents organized workers in the Province of Nova Scotia, some 60,000 organized workers from one end of the province to the other. He plays a bit of golf from time to time up your way, Mr. Speaker, in Springhill and if he could get rid of that hook off the tee, he wouldn't be a bad golfer. Anyway, I know that Mr. Clarke is very concerned about Bill No. 68 and has come down here to indicate his concern to members of the government, in particular, and to show his members that he is here to do what needs to be done to make sure that the government backs off on this bill. So I would like to ask Rick to stand and receive the regular warm welcome of the Legislature. (Applause)

[12:45 a.m.]

Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition with respect to Bill No. 68. There are 10 signatures from health care workers around the metro area. The operative clause reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68 and it states:

[Page 4946]

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: ' . . .will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and

Whereas a Tory Platform commits to: 'Working with their nursing profession to make sure the work environment offers a rewarding and positive experience where nurses know they can properly care for their patients, where they know they are valued and where they are empowered to have input into influencing clinical practice outcomes.'; and

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Mr. Speaker, I have affixed my signature.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition. The operative clause reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."There are mostly RNs and LPNs on this petition, some dozen or so, and I have affixed my name in accordance.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I have yet another petition on Bill No. 68 and essentially the same terms as the previous ones introduced. This one is signed by 10 persons, several of whom identify themselves as RNs. I will read the operative clause. It is, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

[Page 4947]

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I believe this is the last petition that I have the good fortune to introduce today. This petition has 10 signatures, 11 including mine and it reads as follows:

"Whereas in the Tory Platform John Hamm said health care workers: ' . . .will not stay unless they have a rewarding professional environment'; and

Whereas the Premier and Minister of Health have continually shown their disrespect for health care workers, especially with the introduction of Bill 68;

Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

Again, as I indicated, 10 signatures, 11 including my own.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table this petition. The operative clause is, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them."

I have attached my name.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on Bill No. 68, signed by nine concerned citizens of the province. The operative clause reads, "Therefore be it resolved that we, the undersigned, call on this government to demonstrate their trust in, and respect for, health care workers in Nova Scotia by immediately withdrawing Bill 68 and at the same time, negotiating fair and decent settlements with them." I have affixed my signature to this petition.

[Page 4948]

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I just came into possession of a letter, which I believe it would be proper for me to read into the record.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. A letter, no. If it is a petition that is signed by at least three people.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Only one.

MR. SPEAKER: No.

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: I will have to find another way to get this one on the record.

MR. SPEAKER: You will have to find another way.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1673

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable Leader of the Opposition, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Minister of Health has shown his complete lack of respect for health care workers of the Capital District Health Authority when he declared he had no confidence they would provide emergency care in the event of a labour dispute; and

[Page 4949]

Whereas at the same time, the Minister showed his complete lack of understanding when he admitted he didn't have the foggiest idea about what services health care workers would provide under CDHA's contingency plan; and

Whereas the subsequent release of the contingency provisions under the collective agreement show very clearly that health care workers would provide emergency services and a reasonable, timely dispute mechanism existed to resolve any differences between the parties in what services would be provided;

Therefore be it resolved that the introduction of Bill No. 68 to strip bargaining rights away from health care workers has nothing to do with protecting the health and safety of Nova Scotians.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

RESOLUTION NO. 1674

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Friday, the Premier finally conceded that his draconian approach to negotiations will affect his chances for re-election; and

Whereas with the considerable amount of polling the Premier does, one would think he would have anticipated such negative reaction; and

Whereas the Premier must be very upset with the effect his Health Minister's incompetence is having on his own image;

Therefore be it resolved that nurses across Nova Scotia be encouraged to write or phone the Premier's Office or to visit the Law Amendments Committee to voice their concerns about this government's policies.

[Page 4950]

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 1675

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Halifax Needham, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Nova Scotia Medical Society has come out against this government's regressive legislation introduced by the Minister of Health; and

Whereas the Medical Society feels the government should try to attract health care workers to this province; and

Whereas they feel that the introduction of this bill will in fact discourage health care workers from coming to this province;

Therefore be it resolved that since the Minister of Health advocates for evidence-based solutions, we suggest he listen to the Medical Society who know the health care system and how it works.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Lunenburg West.

[Page 4951]

Order, please. There is too much noise in the Chamber.

RESOLUTION NO. 1676

MR. DONALD DOWNE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas nurses make up two-thirds of all health professionals in Canada; and

Whereas nurses are the people who care for our sick families, friends and loved ones; and

Whereas nurses are not the uncaring villains portrayed by the Tory Government newspaper ads;

Therefore be it resolved that this government show these hard-working nurses the respect they deserve and immediately tear-up Bill No. 68.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1677

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Bill No. 68, the Healthcare Service Continuation (2001) Act, introduced on this House on June 14, 2001, allows Cabinet to by-pass the arbitration process and impose any non-collective agreement it wants on the members of health care bargaining units; and

Whereas Bill No. 68 further erodes the rights of bargaining units by expressly forbidding any form of appeal of unilateral, government authored collective agreements; and

[Page 4952]

Whereas Bill No. 68 is a thinly-veiled threat to all future collective bargaining in this province;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his Minister of Health have failed Nova Scotians and have failed health care workers by introducing legislation that denies them their legal right to freely negotiate collective agreements with their employers without government intimidation.

Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

RESOLUTION NO. 1678

DR. JAMES SMITH: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the United States is facing both a nursing and a health care worker crisis; and

Whereas nurses and other health care professionals know that when they go to the United States, they will be rewarded handsomely, not only with money but with respect; and

Whereas the nurses and health care professionals know that by moving to the United States, they will be able to enjoy flexible hours, so as to be able to spend more time with their families and friends;

Therefore be it resolved that this government realize that competing with other Atlantic Canadian provinces is simply a naive strategy that fails to recognize the global shortage of nurses and health care professionals.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

[Page 4953]

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nova Scotia celebrates Seniors' Week from June 17th to June 23rd; and

Whereas seniors, through their hard work and diligence, have provided us with our high standard and quality of life and deserve the very best we can provide for them; and

Whereas seniors won't fail to see the rich irony of this government singing their praises this week while it guides through the House the very legislation that will rob them of their right to proper health care, Bill No. 68, because it will drive health care workers away;

Therefore be it resolved that this House condemn the Premier's blue book for singing the praises of seniors, while he stabs them in the back.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. That notice is out of order. It is unparliamentary.

The honourable member for Victoria.

RESOLUTION NO. 1679

MR. KENNETH MACASKILL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas last Thursday, the Premier took the drastic step of calling this Legislature back to session in order to ram through back-to-work legislation; and

Whereas Premier Hamm did so because he claimed the health and safety of Nova Scotians was being threatened by nurses and health care workers; and

Whereas although the Premier claimed health care was in a crisis, he didn't have the respect to show up at Province House when the Legislature reopened;

[Page 4954]

Therefore be it resolved that the good doctor re-examine his priorities, dispense with Bill No. 68 and start showing nurses and health care workers the respect Nova Scotians believe they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed.

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1680

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas last Friday, over 100 clerical and administrative staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital staged a wildcat walkout; and

Whereas CUPE representatives acknowledge that health care workers are growing more and more frustrated and this government's introduction of Bill No. 68 may just be the icing on the cake for health care workers; and

Whereas national voices are speaking out against Bill No. 68, and opinion of the bill ranges from unconstitutional to the most regressive piece of legislation ever written;

Therefore be it resolved that this House acknowledge the incendiary qualities of Bill No. 68, and the government that would make us the backwater of labour legislation of North America.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

[Page 4955]

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Glace Bay.

[1:00 a.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 1681

MR. DAVID WILSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Friday, the Premier finally conceded that his draconian approach to negotiations will affect his chances for re-election; and

Whereas with the considerable amount of polling the Premier does one would think he would have anticipated such negative reaction; and

Whereas the Premier must be very upset with the effect his Health Minister's incompetence is having on his own image;

Therefore be it resolved that the Tory Government be ashamed of their treatment of nurses and their inability to recognize the incredible harm they are doing to that profession in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 1682

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: On behalf of the honourable member for Halifax Needham, Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

[Page 4956]

Whereas the Nova Scotia Teachers Union has come out against this government's regressive legislation introduced by the Minister of Health; and

Whereas the NSTU feels this government is signalling that the collective bargaining process in this province is now dead; and

Whereas Bill No. 68 is just another example of Mike Harris politics with a Nova Scotia twist;

Therefore be it resolved that if the Premier and his caucus want to be like Mike, then we suggest they move to Ontario. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

I just want to remind the visitors in the gallery that I would ask them not to respond either positively or negatively to what is happening on the floor of the House, please. Thank you.

The honourable member for Cape Breton The Lakes.

RESOLUTION NO. 1683

MR. BRIAN BOUDREAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Friday, the Premier finally conceded that his draconian approach to negotiations will affect his chances for re-election; and

Whereas with the considerable amount of polling the Premier does, one would think he would have anticipated such negative reaction; and

Whereas the Premier must be very upset with the effect his Health Minister's incompetence is having on his own image;

[Page 4957]

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier recognize the sort of wildcat actions - such as those that took place on the Northside on Friday - that can come about as a result of these harsh measures.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1684

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in 1999 the blue blood Premier promised in his blue book of sweetness and light - who writes this stuff? - to work with the nursing profession to make sure the work environment offers a rewarding and positive experience where nurses know they can properly care for their patients; and

Whereas the Premier promised a further lollipop by assuring nurses they would have a work environment "where they know they are valued and where they are empowered to have input into influencing clinical practice outcomes . . ."; and

Whereas the results of the RNANS online poll indicates that both nurses and the public now realize they were duped by the Premier;

Therefore be it resolved the Premier please drop the big stick of Bill No. 68 and extend the carrot of free and open contract negotiations with health care workers.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

[Page 4958]

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 1685

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Bill No. 68 is a terribly misguided piece of legislation which takes power away from Nova Scotians and places it in the hands of self-serving Tories; and

Whereas whoever advised the Tories on this legislation certainly misread the tea leaves; and

Whereas public dissatisfaction over this bill will hurt the Tories big time in the next election;

Therefore be it resolved that the Tory Government think twice - or even three times for that matter - before they ever produce another draconian piece of legislation as Bill No. 68.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1686

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this Premier promised input from seniors before any government decision-making affecting the future of our province; and

Whereas this government's failure to recruit much-needed nurses has already limited access for seniors to health care; and

[Page 4959]

Whereas Bill No. 68 will serve only to limit their access further, as it will drive health care workers away or out of the profession;

Therefore be it resolved that this House condemns the Premier for failing to consult with seniors before bringing forward Bill No. 68, a bill that will limit seniors' access to health care.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Glace Bay.

RESOLUTION NO. 1687

MR. DAVID WILSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas there is a North American-wide shortage of nurses and health care workers; and

Whereas instead of creating innovative programs to attract new nurses and health care workers, this government introduces draconian laws that will only drive them away; and

Whereas unless this government starts acting sensibly, Nova Scotia will be in more of a health care crisis than it already is;

Therefore be it resolved that this bone-headed government dispense with Bill No. 68, and offer nurses and health care workers a contract that shows these invaluable members of Nova Scotia's health care team the respect they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

[Page 4960]

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1688

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Hiram and Kathleen Nelson, a couple formerly from metro and living in Victoria, B.C., have donated 100 hectares of threatened coastal wetland in Cole Harbour to the province; and

Whereas Hiram and Kathleen wanted the ecologically-sensitive property protected; and

Whereas this piece of property is one of the last undeveloped shorelines in the urban area of Halifax-Dartmouth;

Therefore be it resolved that this government send its thanks to Hiram and Kathleen Nelson for donating 100 hectares of threatened coastal wetland in Cole Harbour to the province, and commit immediately to giving it protection under the Special Places Protection Act.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Lunenburg West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1689

MR. DONALD DOWNE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

[Page 4961]

Whereas on Friday, the Premier finally conceded that his draconian approach to negotiations will affect his chances for re-election; and

Whereas with the considerable amount of polling the Premier does, one would think he would have anticipated such a negative reaction; and

Whereas the Premier must be very upset with the effect his Health Minister's incompetence is having on his own image;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House condemn the Premier for being more concerned with his image than public policy.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. NEIL LEBLANC: Mr. Speaker, on the previous resolution put forward by the member for Cape Breton Centre on behalf of the member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage, I hadn't heard the operative clause and I denied unanimous consent. Reading the operative clause, if the member could get up and read it again I would be more than willing to offer support.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre, the operative clause only, please.

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I thank the Minister of Finance.

[Page 4962]

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 1690

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this government is using nurses and health care workers as scapegoats for their own incompetency; and

Whereas to attempt to sell this legislation as protection for the health and safety of all Nova Scotians is nothing but a red herring; and

Whereas this government has already closed hospital beds due to its failure to recruit nurses to Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that this government wake up and realize that it is their own failure that is threatening the health and safety of Nova Scotians, not nurses and health care workers.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 4963]
RESOLUTION NO. 1691

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Bill No. 68 signifies the death knell for collective bargaining in this province; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, the National Union of Public and General Employees, to name a few, have begun rallying in support of the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union and the Nova Scotia Nurses' Union and other unions representing health care workers; and

Whereas these groups representing dedicated Nova Scotian workers have resoundingly castigated the Premier and his Minister of Health for trampling on the legal right of workers to a free collective bargaining process;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his Minister of Health admit that they have failed Nova Scotian workers and immediately withdraw this repugnant piece of legislation, and allow members of the health care bargaining units to proceed, unimpeded by this meddling government, towards a fairly negotiated collective agreement.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Victoria.

RESOLUTION NO. 1692

MR. KENNETH MACASKILL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Premier Hamm recently admitted the backlash from the public against Bill No. 68 will hurt him come election time; and

[Page 4964]

Whereas whoever advised the Tories on this legislation certainly misread public perception; and

Whereas this bill proves the Tories prefer dictatorship over democracy;

Therefore be it resolved that the Tory Government drop this piece of legislation and immediately apologize to the hard-working nurses and health care workers of this province.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1693

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Halifax Fairview, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Premier Blue Book declared that "Nova Scotians want to know that if they need the health care system it will be there for them . . ."; and

Whereas Premier Blue Book went on to say ". . . I want them to know that under a John Hamm government it will be!"; and

Whereas the passage of Bill No. 68 will ensure that Nova Scotians will be able to access the bricks and mortar that make up our health care facilities, but access to adequate health care will be a much dicier prospect, as health care workers will be driven out of province or out of the profession;

Therefore be it resolved that the great tragedy of it all will not be the ouster of the Hamm Government at the upcoming polls, but the irreparable harm to our health care system that will be the Hamm legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 4965]

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton The Lakes.

RESOLUTION NO. 1694

MR. BRIAN BOUDREAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas whoever advised the Tories to bring forward Bill No. 68 certainly misread polling advice; and

Whereas the good Premier recently admitted the backlash against Bill No. 68 will hurt him come the next election; and

Whereas the public backlash against this bill confirms Nova Scotians don't agree with the Premier and the Health Minister's unfair and selfish comments towards nurses and health care workers;

Therefore be it resolved that the minister and the Premier apologize immediately to the hard-working nurses and health care workers in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

[Page 4966]

RESOLUTION NO. 1695

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Hants East, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas delivery of rural medicine in Nova Scotia is becoming increasingly difficult due to doctor shortages; and

Whereas doctors are hesitant to go to rural areas, partly due to the fear of lack of support; and

Whereas this government is further eroding those supports with its current mishandling of the health care workers' contract negotiations;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly urge the government to step back, take a deep breath, and avoid the damage its callous treatment of health care workers will do to the recruitment of rural doctors.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

RESOLUTION NO. 1696

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Cape Breton Nova, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas there is a continent-wide shortage of nurses and health support workers in North America; and

Whereas instead of attracting new health professionals, this government excels at driving them away; and

[Page 4967]

Whereas Bill No. 68 brings Nova Scotia another step closer to driving all health care professionals away from our province;

[1:15 a.m.]

Therefore be it resolved that this Tory Government drop its bone-headed mentality and embark on innovative methods to not only attract new health professionals but also keep our hard-working health professionals in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1697

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable Leader of the Opposition, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas nurses and other health care workers have endured the consequences of 10 years of political interference and mismanagement in health care; and

Whereas the Conservatives recognized that the result was poor morale and an unrewarding, negative work environment which contributed to the chaos in the health care system; and

Whereas the Conservatives are risking dire consequences for Nova Scotians' health care by launching a partisan campaign that attacks the workers instead of fixing the health care system;

Therefore be it resolved that to protect the health and safety of Nova Scotians, the government should end its divisive, partisan campaign and trust health care workers enough to meet them as equals and freely negotiate positive and lasting changes for Nova Scotia health care.

[Page 4968]

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

RESOLUTION NO. 1698

DR. JAMES SMITH: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Friday the Premier finally conceded that his draconian approach to negotiations will affect his chances for re-election; and

Whereas with the considerable amount of polling the Premier does, one would think he would have anticipated such a negative reaction; and

Whereas the Premier must be very upset with the effect his Health Minister's incompetence is having on his own image;

Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Health have the same revelation about nursing in Nova Scotia as the Premier has had about elections in Nova Scotia, and pull this bill, Bill No. 68, before it is too late.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 4969]

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in an e-mail sent to our caucus office on Friday, June 15, 2001, Nancy Mahoney, who is not a nurse and not a health care workers, writes that she is "appalled at the government's heavy-handed manoeuvring . . ." in introducing Bill No. 68; and

Whereas after seeing a group of school children visiting the Legislature on Friday morning, she wrote "I don't want our children and grandchildren to grow up in a society in which they innocently believe that they have rights, that there are laws made to protect them . . ."; and

Whereas Ms. Mahoney continues ". . . only to discover as they grow up that those rights and laws are imposed or taken away whenever it is convenient for a government to do so - that their contracts are worth nothing . . .";

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his Minister of Health recall their appalling piece of unfair, undemocratic, anti-worker legislation and uphold the rights of the health care workers and future generations of workers in this province to a fair collective bargaining process.

Mr. Speaker, I seek waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The motion is out of order, it is too long.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

RESOLUTION NO. 1699

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable Leader of the Liberal Party, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this government has accused nurses and health care professionals of threatening the health and safety of Nova Scotians; and

Whereas the Premier and his MLAs don't seem to realize that our nurses and health care workers would be the last to abandon a patient; and

Whereas the attitude of the Premier and his MLAs will no doubt have a negative impact when they head into the next general election;

[Page 4970]

Therefore be it resolved that this government drop this piece of legislation and come up with a contract for nurses and health care workers that reflects the high level of dedication and commitment these workers show to the people of Nova Scotia every day.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1700

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas a 1997 Canadian Nurses Association report concluded that one of the causes of a nursing shortage in the near future is an aging population, which will require increased nursing and other health care; and

Whereas Premier Blue Book promised in 1999 a PC Government would "ensure that input from seniors and the interests of seniors are at the forefront of all government decision making affecting the future of our province"; and

Whereas the exodus of health care workers from their professions and for other climes because of this government's draconian Bill No. 68 ensures seniors less and less access to proper health care in the future;

Therefore be it resolved that this Premier toss Bill No. 68 before he does irreparable harm to the health and safety of seniors in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

[Page 4971]

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1701

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Canada's smallest province - Prince Edward Island - is investing $2.2 million towards an innovative nursing recruitment and retention program; and

Whereas under Nova Scotia's nursing strategy announced in April of this year that this government has pledged a measly $300,000 for recruitment and retention; and

Whereas P.E.I.'s sensible investment puts them head and shoulders above the pathetic recruitment and retention efforts of this Tory Government;

Therefore be it resolved that this government wake up, smell the coffee and start investing more resources to retain our hard-working nurses and recruit new nurses to Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1702

MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Hants East, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas nurses are essential support for doctors in rural areas as elsewhere; and

[Page 4972]

Whereas rural areas are having difficult times recruiting badly needed doctors; and

Whereas this government will make it even tougher to attract doctors to rural areas due to the flight of nurses and support workers from its Hamm-handed policies;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly urge the government to back off from its current course of madness and treat health care workers with the respect that they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1703

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Friday, the Premier finally conceded that his draconian approach to negotiations will affect his chances for re-election; and

Whereas with the considerable amount of polling the Premier does, one would think that he would have anticipated such negative reaction; and

Whereas the Premier must be upset with the effect his Minister of Health's incompetence is having on his image;

Therefore be it resolved that now that the Premier has realized the political price of his actions, perhaps he can recognize the unprecedented effect on labour relations that Bill No. 68 will have in this province.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 4973]

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1704

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in a letter sent to the Premier by the National Union of Public and General Employees, president James Clancy calls Bill No. 68 "unjust, undemocratic and anti-worker"; and

Whereas Mr. Clancy asks the question, "Why does your government feel that it can override fundamental right and freedoms of citizens of Nova Scotia?"; and

Whereas the letter further states, "If enacted, Bill 68 will do nothing to address the serious problems facing the health care system in Nova Scotia . . . Health care workers did not create the crisis in Nova Scotia.";

Therefore be it resolved that this House acknowledge the people who created that health care crisis in Nova Scotia today be named as John Buchanan, Donald Cameron, John Savage and John Hamm.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 4974]

RESOLUTION NO. 1705

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the minister stated in this House last Thursday, ". . . that no government in Nova Scotia in recent years has done and taken stronger and introduced more innovative things for nurses than this one . . ."; and

Whereas health care workers certainly agree that this minister's crowning innovation is Bill No. 68 in which he rips away every shred of dignity left to them; and

Whereas if this government proceeds to impose a non-collective agreement on health care workers, our health care system will collapse upon itself as these essential workers find other opportunities;

Therefore be it resolved that this government come to its senses and toss Bill No. 68 before it dismantles our already stressed health care system.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1706

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Halifax Fairview, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Minister of Health states in media reports that "our system needs every nurse and every health-care worker every day to care for Nova Scotians."; and

Whereas what the Minister of Health seems to forget is that even nurses and health care workers need days off to relax and recharge; and

[Page 4975]

Whereas it would appear the Minister of Health, if given the chance, would not allow workers days off and probably would legislate that if he thought he could get away with it;

Therefore be it resolved that this House instruct the Minister of Health to take a reality check now and withdraw Bill No. 68 before it completely destroys the health care system in this province.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1707

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas while testing soil in and around the Whitney Pier area, government workers must wear rubber gloves so as not to touch contaminated soil; and

Whereas if government employees can't even touch the soil with bare hands, imagine how concerned it must make the residents of the area; and

Whereas the site of workers wearing gloves has residents' fears growing by the minute, rather than reassuring them;

Therefore be it resolved that instead of improving the situation of residents of the Whitney Pier area, this government, in conjunction with the federal government, is making residents of Whitney Pier even more nervous and upset.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

[Page 4976]

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 1708

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas this Premier promised in his blue book that "A PC Government is committed to ensuring health care resources are directed by real, measurable evidence"; and

Whereas the Premier's heavy-handed use of Bill No. 68 to legislate away years of collective bargaining rights for health care workers will cause their exodus in pursuit of opportunities elsewhere; and

Whereas Bill No. 68 provides real, measurable evidence that this government is prepared to trample all over health care workers to achieve its fiscal objectives;

Therefore be it resolved that in light of the upcoming exodus of health care workers from this province and their profession because of Bill No. 68, the Premier amend his blue book promise to state, "A PC Government is committed to ensuring health care resources are directed elsewhere by real, measurable evidence."

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1709

MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

[Page 4977]

Whereas Premier Blue Book stated in 1999 that "Our seniors are those members of our community who have contributed to making our Nova Scotian society the wonderful place that it is . . ."; and

Whereas Premier Blue Book then promised seniors that because they are building blocks of our society they "now have a right to live their remaining years in comfort, security and with the best possible health and quality of life . . ."; and

Whereas Premier Blue Book has welched on another promise, because with the passage of Bill No. 68 he will dismantle the very public health care system that would provide comfort, security and the best possible health and quality of life for our seniors;

Therefore be it resolved that Premier Blue Book issue an apology to seniors in Nova Scotia for failing to provide the health care system they so justly deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

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