MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. We will begin the daily routine.
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley.
MR. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition on behalf of 87 Middle Musquodoboit and area residents. "We the water haulers and customers of the Halifax Regional Municipality would like to show how much a water supply system is needed in the Musquodoboit Valley area. Some of us get up to three loads a week and that runs into a lot of money. We can't afford to pay more for water, and that's what it will be if our suppliers have to go outside our corridor to get water."
Mr. Speaker, I point out that there is an existing municipal water system in Middle Musquodoboit and most of the folks believe there is a capacity to handle the request of the customers of the water haulers. I have signed the petition, as has the former Councillor for the Eastern Shore-Musquodoboit Valley, Bill Dooks. Thank you.
MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS
STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.
HON. ERNEST FAGE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on Tuesday, October 30th, Mr. Jack Hartery, former President of StoraEnso, passed away in Port Hawkesbury; and
Whereas Mr. Hartery was a strong supporter of aggressive forest management on both Crown and private lands and a firm believer in substainability of Nova Scotia's forest resources; and
Whereas under his direction, StoraEnso successfully, without government funding, invested $750 million in the company's mill at Port Hawkesbury to maintain and secure the paper industry's jobs and future;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize this great loss to the forest industry and extend our deepest sympathy to the family of the late Jack Hartery.
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 Minister of Community Services.
HON. PETER CHRISTIE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas November 2001 is National Adoption Awareness Month; and
Whereas every child has a right and a need to be part of a permanent family; and
Whereas the theme for this year is Special Needs Adoption which refers to children for whom it is difficult to find adoptive homes;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in thanking all the adoptive families in Nova Scotia and encouraging others to seriously consider adoption.
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 Minister of Tourism and Culture.
HON. RODNEY MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Annual Tourism Conference and Trade Show will be held November 3 to November 6, 2001, with the theme of this year's conference being People; and
Whereas the comprehensive three-day conference features an array of speakers, presentations, workshops and numerous networking opportunities for the people of this $1 billion-plus industry; and
Whereas this conference is a great opportunity for government, operators, associations and entrepreneurs to come together to celebrate achievements and discuss future challenges;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the province's tourism industry for working together to grow tourism for the benefit of all Nova Scotians.
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 Minister of Education.
HON. JANE PURVES: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Ken MacDonald, Vice Principal and a Grade 4 history teacher at Riverside Elementary School in Albert Bridge, Cape Breton, has been nominated for the annual Governor General's Award for Excellence in Teaching Canadian History; and
Whereas Mr. MacDonald is one of 12 national finalists for this prestigious award; and
Whereas in his 32 year teaching career, Mr. MacDonald has integrated Canadian History with language, arts, science and music;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Mr. MacDonald on his nomination and recognize his innovative contributions to teaching Canadian History to students.
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 Minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Sport and Recreation Commission.
HON. RODNEY MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Team Nova Scotia's 434 members attended the 2001 Canada Summer Games in London, Ontario, in August; and
Whereas Team Nova Scotia won 23 gold, 13 silver and 11 bronze medals, achieving the best ever standings for Nova Scotia; and
[9:15 a.m.]
Whereas Team Nova Scotia was awarded the Centennial Cup for the most improved team since the previous games;
Therefore be it resolved all members of this House congratulate Team Nova Scotia for their outstanding achievements and performance at the 2001 Canada Summer Games.
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.
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
Bill No. 75 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 17 of the Acts of 1995-96. The Revenue Act. (Hon. Neil LeBlanc)
Bill No. 76 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 92 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Consumer Protection Act. (Hon. Angus MacIsaac)
Bill No. 77 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 293 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Motor Vehicle Act and Chapter 371 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Public Highways Act. (Hon. Ronald Russell)
MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that these bills be read a second time on a future day.
NOTICES OF MOTION
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.
MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Minister of Finance said on October 30th that his government must practice restraint and to do so "we are controlling the side of the ledger we can control, and that's spending"; and
Whereas the consequences include cancellation of hundreds of elective surgeries, more school closures and larger classes, costly delay of new health facilities and further demoralization in all public services; and
Whereas two days later, the Minister of Finance announced a significant revenue increase, revealing that his previous statement seemed to be true for two days and three hours; and
Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his government should work with Nova Scotians on a long-term plan to achieve the key promises he made to get elected, fixing health care and investing in education, instead of changing the Tory tune from day to 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 Leader of the Liberal Party.
MR. WAYNE GAUDET: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Lunenburg lost one of its most treasured and celebrated landmarks yesterday; and
Whereas the 247 year old St. John's Anglican Church was the second oldest Anglican Church in Canada; and
Whereas firefighters, volunteers and community came together and have pledged to rebuild their landmark church;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House extend their condolences to the community of Lunenburg on the loss of their church which held so many memories for so many people across Nova Scotia.
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 Kings North.
MR. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the help, kindness and support of Nova Scotians to the travellers stranded here in the days immediately following the attack on New York City was appreciated both by travellers and families alike;
Whereas the people of the Kentville area made great contributions and met the various needs of travellers housed at Camp Aldershot; and
Whereas one such traveller, Regine Langhammer of Scarsdale, New York, was moved by the graciousness and hospitality of the many people she met and expressed her thanks and pride for her nation of birth through a notice in our provincial newspaper;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this Legislature acknowledge the care and generosity of the staff and volunteers of Camp Aldershot and say, you're welcome, to Regine Langhammer and all of those travellers that Nova Scotians were so happy to help.
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 Halifax Atlantic.
Whereas employees of the Captain William Spry Community Centre were recognized by the Halifax Regional Municipality for their excellence in customer service and satisfaction; and
Whereas in a ceremony at the centre, staff were presented with certificates and prizes; and
Whereas the Employee Recognition Awards are unique in the history of HRM and given to select employees for their excellent service.
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Brian Andrews, Webster Campbell, John Slaunwhite, and Kim White for their years of committed, dedicated public service at the Captain William Spry Community Centre and for receiving the Employee Recognition Awards from the Halifax Regional Municipality.
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 Cape Breton South.
MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas schools in industrial Cape Breton are closing while the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board loses 700 students a year; and
Whereas the Minister of Education has once again shown her disdain for the people of Cape Breton by suggesting that Cape Breton is not unique in Nova Scotia; and
Whereas the minister's contempt for Cape Breton seems to be getting in the way of sound policy decisions, as she fails to provide any additional assistance for the Cape Breton board;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House urge the Education Minister to put aside her prejudice and properly fund the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board during this painful transition.
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 Shelburne.
MR. CECIL O'DONNELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on September 30th, the sound of gospel music rang clearly from the Shelburne Community Centre where more than 400 people gathered in a show of community spirit; and
Whereas the afternoon of gospel music was also a fundraiser for the Canadian Red Cross, where the community donated over $6,000 to help replenish supplies used to respond to events of September 11th; and
Whereas special guests, retired Maine Senator, Walter Hichens, who spoke of our close ties with the U.S. and Cumberland County firefighter, Glen Levy - who reported for duty at the site of the disaster - spoke first-hand of the horrible realities at ground zero;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House commend the people of Shelburne County for their support for the Canadian Red Cross Society, and applaud their sense of community spirit which, in this case, reached out to help our neighbours.
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 Halifax Atlantic.
MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Kings County Activist, Maynard Stevens, has been a history buff of some renown for many years; and
Whereas Maynard has laboured long and hard over a comprehensive history of historic cemeteries in Kings County; and
Whereas his labour has borne fruit with the release by Gaspereau Press of this history under the title, Where They Rest In Peace;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Maynard Stevens on the release of his comprehensive work on cemeteries in Kings County, Where They Rest In Peace and wish him every success in his writing career.
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. 1994
MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Nova Scotia Association of Women and the Law presented the 2001 Frances Fish Women Lawyers' Achievement Awards; and
Whereas Carol Beaton, a partner with the Beaton Blaikie law firm in Amherst received the provincial award on October 25th; and
Whereas Carol Beaton is the oldest of four children and was raised in Port Hawkesbury;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend congratulations to Carol Beaton on her recent award and her accomplishments in the practice of law.
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 Minister of Health.
HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Brian MacLeod of Truro will participate in the U.S. Open Blind Golf Championship this weekend in Greensboro, North Carolina; and
Whereas Brian MacLeod won the B1 Division, which is the totally blind division, at the California Blind Golf Classic last week by six strokes and finished fifth overall; and
Whereas in 2001, Brian MacLeod qualified for the 2002 World Championship by winning an Ontario event and he also had two top five finishes in other tournaments in the United States;
Therefore be it resolved that all members congratulate Brian MacLeod for his outstanding achievements and wish him well as he competes against the world's top blind golfers this weekend.
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 Halifax Needham.
MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Alexandra Children's Centre located on the ground floor of the Shambhala School at Russell and Gottingen Streets is the largest pre-school child care centre in Nova Scotia; and
Whereas for 30 years, the Alexandra Children's Centre has provided high-quality child care services to pre-school children from all parts of metro and in particular to inner- city Halifax; and
Whereas the longevity of this centre, through hard times as well as good, is a tribute to the dedication and professionalism of the child care workers, directors and board members;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this Legislature extend congratulations and best wishes to all those who have worked with such care and conviction to ensure that the 30th Anniversary of the Alexandra Children's Centre is an occasion for celebration.
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 Lunenburg West.
MR. DONALD DOWNE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas during the last election, the Premier had no problem projecting that he would provide a balanced budget and a 10 per cent tax cut four years into the future; and
Whereas now the Premier says he can't project 18 months out and will not commit to a balanced budget; and
Whereas at one time the Premier was more concerned with his integrity when he said the minute he cannot fulfill his promise is the time he begins to devolve himself from public life;
Therefore be it resolved that the Premier re-examine his commitments and admit that he hasn't kept one substantive promise since being elected in 1999.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.
MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas many Canadians have wondered what they can do to help the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks; and
Whereas Seaside Elementary School in Eastern Passage produced 500 memorial red, white and blue ribbons that were sold within the school to raise money for the victims of the attacks; and
Whereas the effort to produce the ribbons and fundraise for the victims was spearheaded by Kim Larkin and Mandy Lewis, hard-working parents and volunteers from the school;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the students, staff and parents of Seaside Elementary School, especially Kim Larkin and Mandy Lewis, for their efforts in raising money for the victims of the September 11th disaster.
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 Cape Breton Nova.
MR. PAUL MACEWAN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Mr. Ivan Vuleti of 183 Muggah Street, Whitney Pier, died on September 12, 2001, at the age of 103 years, having been born in Peina, Heregovina, on August 9, 1898; and
Whereas the late Ivan Vuleti thus lived in three centuries, the 19th, 20th and 21st, which is a rare and unusual achievement; and
Whereas Ivan Vuleti immigrated to Canada in 1928 and lived at Whitney Pier from 1936 until his death and retired from the Sydney Steel plant after a noteworthy career of some 30 years in the open hearth department;
Therefore be it resolved that this House salutes the legacy and achievements of the late Ivan Vuleti and expresses every sympathy to his wife, Neda, and his son, John and daughter, Mary Ann.
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 Cape Breton Centre.
MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Cape Breton Regional Municipality's reasonable plan to revitalize the economy of industrial Cape Breton requires that it be given control of the Sysco piers; and
[9:30 a.m.]
Whereas the Minister of Economic Development has turned a deaf ear to the proposal and continues to entertain notions of selling the Sysco wharf facilities to private interests; and
Whereas the minister and the Premier just don't get the message that if they want a viable economic development strategy for industrial Cape Breton, dumping steel and coal and all the assets attached thereto at a fire sale can't be part of that strategy;
Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and the Minister of Economic Development stop standing in the way of economic development in Cape Breton and commit today to turning over the Sysco pier facilities to the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Dartmouth East.
DR. JAMES SMITH: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Mr. Louis Deveau and Acadian Seaplants Limited of Dartmouth is this year's recipient of the Canadian Innovation Award for Technology presented by the Canadian Manufacturers "and symbol" Exporters; and
Whereas this award recognizes innovative excellence and the contribution the winner makes to the Canadian economy and our quality of life; and
Whereas Acadian Seaplants Limited specializes in the manufacturing of products and ingredients with global exports in over 65 countries;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend congratulations to Louis Deveau and Acadian Seaplants Limited on receiving this prestigious award.
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 Halifax Chebucto.
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 food retail industry in Nova Scotia is an intensely competitive sector, dominated by corporations who favor megastore, big box retail outlets; and
Whereas it is increasingly difficult for consumers to make retail choices in favour of natural, organic, environmentally-friendly products and produce in a megastore retail environment; and
Whereas Great Ocean Natural Food Market, located on Quinpool Road, has consistently offered consumers an alternative retail experience, providing locally grown, organic and pesticide-free produce, as well as environmentally-friendly packaging and products;
Therefore be it resolved that the House congratulate Great Ocean Natural Food Market's owners and staff on being named the Retailer of the Year by the Canadian Health Food Association.
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 Victoria.
MR. KENNETH MACASKILL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas nursing care in Nova Scotia, especially in rural areas, is in a state of crisis; and
Whereas the nursing profession and the health care of Nova Scotians will both suffer if the only solutions that come to the table to address the nursing shortage are short term; and
Whereas this government must look beyond the short term if they are truly committed to recruiting and retaining nurses in this province;
Therefore be it resolved that the government must act on its long-term strategy to save nursing care and 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 a No.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.
MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Masthead News is celebrating its 10th Anniversary of publication this month; and
Whereas this community-minded newspaper has provided valuable service to the communities within its distribution area; and
Whereas Cynthia and Ron Driskill operate this family business;
Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly congratulate Cynthia and Ron Driskill on the 10th Anniversary of the Masthead News.
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 Cape Breton The Lakes.
MR. BRIAN BOUDREAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Nova Scotia Canada Games team won 47 medals at this year's games, 14 more than the previous Summer Games in 1997; and
Whereas the Nova Scotia team was awarded the Centennial Cup for the most-improved team; and
Whereas Mike Bell, the Chef de Mission, and the Mission Staff did a great job while at the games in London, Ontario;
Therefore be it resolved that this House extend congratulations to the Canada Games team on their medals and award, and to Mike Bell and the staff on a job well done.
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 Hants East.
MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the entrepreneur is to the economy what the chef is to the kitchen; and
Whereas entrepreneurs are recognized annually with the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award; and
Whereas Mr. Allan C. Shaw of the Shaw Group is this year's Atlantic winner of the award;
Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Allan C. Shaw on his vision, energy and committment that led to the prestigious award of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year from his peers.
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 Glace Bay.
Whereas the NDP have had a long tradition of opposing Canadian international military involvement; and
Whereas the NDP opposes Canadian participation in NATO; and
Whereas despite mea culpas from the provincial NDP, the bottom line is that their national Leader has not fully endorsed her support for Canadian troops and their mission;
Therefore be it resolved that the provincial NDP recognize that merely supporting Canadian forces with kind words is not enough and that they should demonstrate real solidarity with our women and men at arms by truly distancing themselves from their federal counterparts.
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 Fairview.
MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas in 1999 the Tory blue boook stated that "Nova Scotians expect their government to conduct the people's business in the open"; and
Whereas the blue book further states, "we believe Nova Scotians are right to demand greater openness, accountability and participation"; and
Whereas this government is now the first in Nova Scotia's history and quite probably the first anywhere in Canada to go all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada to keep government closed and unaccountable;
Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and Minister of Justice explain to Nova Scotians why the promise of open and accountable government seems never to have been lifted off the page of the Tory blue book.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Cape Breton West.
RESOLUTION NO. 2009
MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas a private-sector company, Donkin Resources Limited, has submitted to government a comprehensive business plan for the development of the Donkin coal mine; and
Whereas this proposal will not require govenment funding; it will create nearly 500 direct and indirect jobs, meet environmental standards and generate more than $5 million a year in provincial tax revenues; and
Whereas activating the Donkin coal mine project will give a much needed boost to an area of the province hard hit by job losses;
Therefore be it resolved that the Ministers of Finance, Economic Development and Natural Resources make every effort to support the Donkin Resources Limited proposal to activate the development of the Donkin coal mine.
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 Needham.
MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Safe Harbour Metropolitan Community Church is well known for its ministry in gay, bisexual and trans-gendered communities; and
Whereas Safe Harbour's work includes outreach, with programs and support to community groups working on human rights and justice issues; and
Whereas this year, Safe Harbour celebrates its 10th Anniversary, an important milestone in its pioneering history;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House extend congratulations and best wishes to the board and congregation of Safe Harbour Metropolitan Community Church.
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.
MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Nova Scotia Community College has three new principals; and
Whereas Dr. Daurene Lewis has been named Princiapl of the two Halifax campuses and Grant MacDermott has been named Principal of the Akerley campus in Dartmouth; and
Whereas David MacLean has been named Principal of the Marconi campus in Sydney;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Dr. Lewis, Mr. MacDermott and Mr. MacLean on their achievements.
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 Cole Harbour-EAstern Passage.
MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the men and women of 12 Wing Shearwater have worked hard over the years to keep the Sea King helicopters flying; and
Whereas the Sea King has a record of almost 40 years of service for the Canadian military, due in no small part to the maintenance crews that maintain the helicopters; and
Whereas the Sea King is once again being pressed into service with Operation Apollo;
Therefore be it resolved that this House recognize the efforts of the men and women who keep the Sea King flying, especially those who are now doing this work onboard ship during Operation Apollo.
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 Cape Breton South.
MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas The Elks Lodge 270 celebrated its 65th Anniversary on Saturday, October 13, 2001; and
Whereas members of The Elks Lodge 270 have played an integral role in the community life of Sydney and industrial Cape Breton; and
Whereas The Elks Lodge 270 looks forward to many more years of community involvement;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly of the Province of Nova Scotia congratulate The Elks Lodge 270 on their 65th Anniversary.
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 Timberlea-Prospect.
MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas in the aftermath of the September 11th tragedy in New York and Washington, thousands of air travellers were stranded throughout Atlantic Canada; and
Whereas over 1,000 of these travellers spent a number of days and nights at the Exhibition Park on the Prospect Road; and
Whereas the surrounding communities unselfishly gave of themselves by offering their time, their talents, and their homes to make these visitors feel at home;
Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly offer its gratitude and thanks to the many volunteers from the Timberlea-Prospect communities for their assistance during this crisis.
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 Cape Breton The Lakes.
MR. BRIAN BOUDREAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas safety on our highways is a concern of all members in this House; and
Whereas many provincial employees ensure safety on our highways through various positions in many government departments; and
Whereas vehicle compliance officers employed by the province provide an invaluable service to the motoring public;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House fully support the retention of vehicle compliance officers, as they are an important key to highway safety for all 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 Guysborough-Port Hawkesbury.
MR. RONALD CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, as well as on behalf of my colleagues, the members for Inverness and Antigonish, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Jack Hartery, the former President and General Manager of StoraEnso pulp mill in Point Tupper, has died at the age of 63; and
Whereas his legacy as President and General Manager of one of the largest companies in this province is the huge billion dollar expansion which he oversaw and the long-term future which he secured for StoraEnso and Nova Scotia; and
Whereas his personal legacy of kindness and concern as a boss and in his community will not soon be forgotten, and Jack was known for his sincere interest in his employees and their families and, in return, was genuinely liked and admired;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature pause to reflect on the life and the character of Jack Hartery who will be remembered well, and extend their sincere condolences to his wife, Shirley, his children, Maria, John, Michael, and Christopher, and all his grandchildren.
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 Hants East.
MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas cancer is a terrible disease and an affliction that both terrifies and destroys; and
Whereas efforts to develop treatments for this disease have long been reliant on funds raised by volunteers; and
[9:45 a.m.]
Whereas the Hants East Cancer Unit recently celebrated 50 years of fundraising and awareness of cancer and its terrible toll on humankind;
Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate everyone associated with the Hants East Cancer Unit for providing leadership and hope to those afflicted with and affected by cancer.
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 Lunenburg West.
MR. DONALD DOWNE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas fundraising to build a YMCA in Bridgewater has begun with a public appeal to sponsor a square foot of a new building; and
Whereas when completed, the Y will house cardiovascular and exercise equipment, child care spaces and more in a new wing of the Nova Scotia Community College, Lunenburg Campus; and
Whereas the Michelin Tire Corporation has pledged $50,000 toward the $1 million fundraising effort;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the YMCA on its construction plans and encourage Nova Scotians to support the fundraising efforts that make such needed community projects possible.
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 Government House Leader.
HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, could I have the concurrence of the House to revert to the order of business, Statements by Ministers?
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. If there are more resolutions, we will hear them. Don't be shy; jump up.
The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.
MR. WAYNE GAUDET: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas cervical cancer is largely preventable with regular pap smear screening; and
Whereas Nova Scotia ranks last in pap testing in Canada; and
Whereas training and mortality rates associated with cancer have improved over the past 30 years and more must be done to educate women and the health professionals;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate this government on their recent ad campaign raising awareness of the importance of regular screening and pap smears for cervical cancer.
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 Cape Breton West.
MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the John Hamm Government does not know how much water is being exported from Nova Scotia; and
Whereas in recent years, there is considerable evidence of water shortages province-wide;
Therefore be it resolved that the government immediately table a comprehensive water management strategy so that all Nova Scotians will judge as to whether we should continue to export fresh water from 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 East.
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 Governor General, Adrienne Clarkson, recently presented Janet Conners and her late husband Randy with the Meritorious Service Medal; and
Whereas the awards go to military personnel and ordinary citizens who bring honour to their community and country; and
Whereas Janet Conners and her late husband Randy were instrumental in a crusade to get compensation from the government for hemophiliac victims infected with HIV/AIDS;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend congratulations to Janet and her late husband Randy on their award and the tremendous amount of pride and courage they have shown throughout their battles.
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 Victoria.
RESOLUTION NO. 2022
MR. KENNETH MACASKILL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Celtic Colours International Festival recently held its fifth annual festival across Cape Breton; and
Whereas this year's festival has been a tremendous success and generated millions of dollars in revenue for the Cape Breton economy; and
Whereas it is thanks to the many performers, volunteers, organizers and sponsors who dedicate their time and efforts to make this festival a success;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend congratulations to the organizers, staff, volunteers and performers for making the International Celtic Colours Festival the great success it has been every year.
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 Glace Bay.
MR. DAVID WILSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the member for Kings North might be called the reluctant politician as he self-flagellates himself in public about his chosen profession; and (Interruptions) At the Speaker's wish I would repeat that if he didn't hear it, Mr. Speaker.
Whereas if the member looked in the mirror he would realize he is no more than a politician, no better and no worse than others; and
Whereas the Progressive Conservative Party is hardly a bastion of moral integrity after over 15 years of Buchanan-Cameron deficit spending and corruption;
Therefore be it resolved that the member for Kings North realize that he is a politician and a Tory politician, nothing more, nothing less.
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 Government House Leader.
HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I would ask the concurrence of the House to revert to the order of business, Statements by Ministers.
MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.
HON. JANE PURVES: Mr. Speaker, yesterday in this House, the honourable member for Cole Harbour- Eastern Passage asked me about certain irregularities in the Strait Regional School Board.
Yesterday, I informed that member of the steps I have taken to deal with this situation. A situation, Mr. Speaker, that I remind the honourable member happened in 1998, before this government took office.
Mr. Speaker, this is the third announcement I have made in the last two weeks bringing information to light. I made a commitment to be as open and as forthcoming as the law allows. Tabling these documents is part of that commitment.
Mr. Speaker, these are the contracts of all school board superintendents. With the exception of the Southwest Region CEO's employment agreement, all honourable members know these contracts are by law negotiated by the school boards, not the department. I have set up a process for a detailed review of these contracts, but even at first glance, I have concerns about some of them.
In co-operation with the Public Service Commission, we have developed terms of reference to review these contracts. That document is also included in the package I am tabling today. The Public Service Commission has the authority to review compensation policies and practices of public sector agencies. I have asked their professionals to conduct a review and comment on total compensation programs afforded Nova Scotia school board superintendents and senior staff relative to generally accepted compensation policies and practices. This comprehensive review will look at terms, duration, cancellation and severance provisions and any other form of remuneration and benefit. I will not get into all the detail of the terms of reference, as it is included with the package I have tabled.
Mr. Speaker, I do want to point out that the review does not end there. We are also looking at current school board policies and practices on public disclosure of total compensation and the process for negotiating contracts. In the last few weeks, the need to improve accountability has become imperative. I have said on a number of occasions that we are quite prepared to make regulatory and legislative changes to improve accountability. Our senior administrators deserve fair and appropriate compensation and benefits, but the public must know that they are based on acceptable standards, not unacceptable perks.
As I said, Mr. Speaker, once these reviews are complete - I will share everything that I am legally allowed to provide. It has been my intention all along that information surrounding this incident be made public and I have taken every opportunity to do so. That will not change. The current system may work well most of the time, however, our responsibility to students and taxpayers is to make it work better all of the time. Thank you. (Applause)
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.
MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, let's be absolutely clear. The statement by the minister is part of a dance of the seven veils that she's performing in order to try, at least de facto if not in law, to take over the school boards. She is trying to again make announcements to show that the school boards can't control their own spending. My
suggestion is that the people of Nova Scotia don't trust her at the till any more than they might some people who are providing loan guarantees to members of the board.
Mr. Speaker, that's what this is about. This is about the big picture. It's not about specific contracts; it's not about loan guarantees. Those are symptoms of potentially bigger problems. Yes, accountability is the issue. Yes, the issue is how do we ensure that every dollar that can be is put into the classrooms so our children have the best chance at a decent education in this province? Those are the questions. But the question is also, who is best able to ensure that accountability? Is it a Department of Education that for the last four years has been more interested in privatization than they have been in educating our children?
Let's start back with the Liberals, four years ago. with their P3 schools. Let's talk about the system that they provided through P3 schools that has created a massive problem in our system and has allowed the bottom line and greed to be more important than educating our children. We still see the problems that that's creating today.
Then we have this government and this minister over the last two years. We talk about two years ago during the budget process, a year and a half ago when they had to add $50 million to the budget because her department couldn't figure out exactly how much money they needed to spend on education. Let's talk about this year's $10 million mistake that they made with regard to the budget and how that would be spent. Let's talk about Knowledge House, probably the biggest example of how this Department of Education is not able to be accountable for its own money; they provide hundreds of thousands of dollars a day before the company goes belly up.
The people of Nova Scotia don't trust this government, they don't trust this minister, they don't trust this Department of Education to ensure that the dollars are being spent in the classroom. Nothing that this minister has said over the last two weeks, nothing that she has said today has answered the questions as to how her department, and prior to her, Ministers Gaudet and Harrison, should have known, if they did not know, that there was a person from their staff there when the loan guarantee was signed.
What type of accountability do we have in a Department of Education when our own department was present and did nothing to ensure that this was stopped? We had to wait three years, Mr. Speaker, for the people of Nova Scotia to find out what the Department of Education knew. We cannot trust this department; we cannot trust this minister. I assure you, none of the questions that we have asked over the past week, none of the questions that I asked yesterday have been answered. We will continue to push for them because it is important that the people of Nova Scotia get answers so they can truly ensure that the dollars that are spent are spent in the classroom and not on greed. (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please.
The honourable member for Richmond.
MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by thanking the minister for providing us with a copy of the statement before coming into the House. Certainly, once again, it is interesting for Nova Scotians to hear the verbal diarrhea coming from a Party that has never served in power before in the history of this great province. (Interruptions) From the day this government was elected, the Minister of Finance has promised greater accountability in the Department of Education and the Department of Health. In the last two budgets, he has clearly said that there would be greater accountability. The question is, why is it taking so long for the Minister of Education to fall in line with the accountability agenda?
Mr. Speaker, today we've been presented with six contracts, but there are seven boards in this province. The Minister of Education wants to tell us that these are the contracts that elected board members, not government, are providing to superintendents. Our question is, Madam Minister, why won't you tell us what you are paying Leroy Legere, an ex-Tory Cabinet Minister, in your pet project in the tri-county school board? So there is accountability that she wants to show us (Interruptions)
[10:00 a.m.]
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. If the honourable Minister of Education wants to respond on a point of order, I would ask her to wait until the member is finished his comments, please.
MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, where was the accountability of this minister and this government when they signed a $1.2 million agreement with Knowledge House, untendered contract, knowing they had to raise an additional $6 million before the contract could actually be fulfilled? Where was the accountability there with absolutely little or no security? Where was the accountability to the students who were hung out to dry when the Advanced Studies program collapsed because the Education Minister didn't bother to check the financial health of Knowledge House?
The Minister of Education has been asleep at the switch for two years. Accountability is a day-to-day duty of the minister. But, ultimately, Mr. Speaker, the minister is accountable to this House and to the people of Nova Scotia. If one wants to see the hypocrisy of this government in saying they have been accountable, seeing that only today that we get to see these actual contracts. The Minister of Finance, in the spring of 2000 in his budget, said that accountability is a hallmark of good government and responsible management of the taxpayers' money. He went on to say it is important to note that the books of this province
now reflect the most accurate and complete financial accounting found anywhere in this nation. Well, ironically, he didn't even know how much the superintendents were making, but he says every expenditure for which the people have an obligation is in clear view. Well, it appears it wasn't the case. In fact, it is only today that we get to see how much the superintendents are actually making.
Mr. Speaker, this today is part of the government's plan to dismantle elected school boards in this province. This is clearly a government by disaster. They waited until there were irregularities with two boards. It was staged and now they bring this out as part of their entire process. Nova Scotians know it. We know it and we will continue to hold this minister and this government accountable for their actions in the Department of Education. (Applause)
HON. JANE PURVES: On a point of order, Mr. Speaker, the honourable member said that something was not provided. It is provided. The salary and remuneration for Mr. Legere at the Southwest Regional School Board are included in this package. He does not have a contract. He is employed by the Public Service Commission.
MR. SPEAKER: That is not a point of order. It is a point of clarification of the facts. Order, please.
MR. MICHEL SAMSON: On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In response to that, clearly, what the minister (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.
MR. SAMSON: Clearly the question today was not only salaries, it was the benefits, travel expenses, severances and everything else that the minister said she wanted to know. Clearly, what we have here is a salary, not travel expenses.
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. It is not a point of order.
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.
HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and that the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Bills unto Her Majesty.
MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
The motion is carried.
[10:04 a.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Brooke Taylor in the Chair.]
[10:29 a.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Mr. Brooke Taylor in the Chair.]
MR. SPEAKER: The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:
THE CLERK: That the committee has met and considered the following bill:
Bill No. 7 - Lobbyists' Registration Act.
and the chairman has been instructed to recommend this bill to the favourable consideration of the House, without amendment.
MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that this bill be read for a third time on a future day.
The honourable Government House Leader.
HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that the government business for today is completed. I would advise the House that the House will be meeting on Monday at 7:00 p.m., and the House will sit from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. The order of business will be Public Bills for Second Reading. We will be debating Bill No. 29, Bill No. 71 and Bill No. 72.
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Is it agreed that the House will adjourn and sit Monday from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.?
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
[The House rose at 10:30 a.m.]
