May 20, 2004

HANSARD 03/04-50

DEBATES AND PROCEEDINGS

Speaker: Honourable Murray Scott

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

Available on INTERNET at http://nslegislature.ca/legislative-business/hansard-debates/

Annual subscriptions available from the Office of the Speaker.

First Session

THURSDAY, MAY 20, 2004

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS 4059
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
Health - Autistic Children: Therapy - Provide, Ms. D. Whalen 4060
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS:
Anl. Rept. of the Nova Scotia Teachers College Foundation, Hon. J. Muir 4060
Public Health Administration Chart, Hon. P. Christie 4060
Order in Council No. 20413, Hon. P. Christie 4060
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1957, N.S. Legislature: Staff - Efforts Commend, The Premier 4060
Vote - Affirmative 4061
Res. 1958, Techsploration: Participants - Congrats.,
(by Hon. K. Morash), Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 4061
Vote - Affirmative 4062
Res. 1959, Agric. & Fish.: Aquaculture Sector - Congrats.,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 4062
Vote - Affirmative 4063
Res. 1960, Blue Nose Int'l. Marathon: Organizers - Congrats.,
(by Hon. A. MacIsaac), Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4063
Vote - Affirmative 4064
Res. 1961, Lunenburg Town - Rec. Fund: Implementation - Congrats.,
(by Hon. M. Baker), Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4064
Vote - Affirmative 4065
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 86, Camera Phone Prohibition Act, Mr. R. MacKinnon 4065
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1962, Randall, Tony: Death of - Tribute, Mr. D. Dexter 4065
Vote - Affirmative 4066
Res. 1963, Graham, Sen. Al: Example - Follow, Mr. Manning MacDonald 4066
Vote - Affirmative 4066
Res. 1964, Stellarton Amateur Athletic Assoc. - Anniv. (100th),
The Premier 4067
Vote - Affirmative 4067
Res. 1965, MacLeod, Lauchie: Death of - Tribute, Mr. F. Corbett 4067
Vote - Affirmative 4068
Res. 1966, Child Care Professionals: Work - Acknowledge,
Mr. W Gaudet 4068
Vote - Affirmative 4069
Res. 1967, Fox, Brent/Advertiser - Kentville Police Award,
Mr. M. Parent 4069
Vote - Affirmative 4070
Res. 1968, Shearwater MFRC: Puppet Prog. - Congrats.,
Mr. K. Deveaux 4070
Vote - Affirmative 4071
Res. 1969, Environ. & Lbr.: Student Summer Employment -
Prioritize, Mr. R. MacKinnon 4071
Res. 1970, Clark, Terri: Grand Ole Opry - Membership, Mr. B. Taylor 4071
Vote - Affirmative 4072
Res. 1971, MacPhee, Warren - Birthday (85th), Mr. J. MacDonell 4072
Vote - Affirmative 4073
Res. 1972, Dal. Model Legislature: Delegates - Best Wishes,
Ms. D. Whalen 4073
Vote - Affirmative 4074
Res. 1973, Sports: Fall River Rebels - Girls Basketball Championship,
Mr. G. Hines 4074
Vote - Affirmative 4074
Res. 1974, Environ. & Lbr.: Greenhouse Gases - Reduction,
Ms. J. Massey 4075
Res. 1975, Gov't. (Can.): Beef Export - Border Opening,
Mr. L. Glavine 4075
Vote - Affirmative 4076
Res. 1976, Crosby, Sidney: Hockey Achievements - Congrats.,
Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4076
Vote - Affirmative 4077
Res. 1977, Prov. Black Basketball Assoc.: Sponsors/Organizers -
Congrats., (by Mr. H. Epstein), Ms. Maureen MacDonald 4077
Vote - Affirmative 4078
Res. 1978, MacDonald, Martin: Commun. Dedication - Tribute Pay,
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 4078
Vote - Affirmative 4079
Res. 1979, McCoombs, Wilber: Death of - Tribute, Hon. K. Morash 4079
Vote - Affirmative 4079
Res. 1980, Com. Serv.: SCORE Application - Review, Mr. C. Parker 4080
Res. 1981, Service Stations: Urban/Rural - Save, Mr. H. Theriault 4080
Res. 1982, N.S. Prov. Ex. Comm'n. - Agridome Const.: Efforts -
Congrats., Hon. J. Muir 4081
Vote - Affirmative 4081
Res. 1983, Ryan, John: Hon. Deg. - Dal., Ms. M. More 4082
Vote - Affirmative 4082
Res. 1984, East. Woodlands Metis Nation: Recognition - Consider,
Mr. W. Gaudet 4082
Res. 1985, Roblee, William: Retirement - Congrats., Hon. M. Baker 4083
Vote - Affirmative 4084
Res. 1986, Whitney Pier 587 Air Cadet Squadron:
Freedom of the City - Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 4084
Vote - Affirmative 4085
Res. 1987, Justice - N.S. Crime Rate: Action Plan - Develop,
Mr. R. MacKinnon 4085
Res. 1988, VanEden, Kristina: Team Can. Polar Bears - Selection,
Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid) 4086
Vote - Affirmative 4086
Res. 1989, Kennedy, Michael: Mem. HS Public Speaking Event -
Congrats., Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 4086
Vote - Affirmative 4087
Res. 1990, Indian Brook: RCMP Detachment - Opening,
Mr. J. MacDonell 4087
Vote - Affirmative 4088
Res. 1991, NDP - Oil Co. Subsidy: Support - Explain,
Mr. Manning MacDonald 4088
Res. 1992, Sports: TASA Peewee A Ducks - Hockey Championship,
Mr. W. Estabrooks 4089
Vote - Affirmative 4089
Res. 1993, Astral Dr. Elem. Sch. PTO: Playground Equipment
Replacement - Thank, Mr. K. Deveaux 4089
Vote - Affirmative 4090
Res. 1994, NDP: Mantra - Change, Mr. Michel Samson 4090
Res. 1995, Parks, David - Birthday (65th), Hon. M. Baker 4091
Vote - Affirmative 4091
Res. 1996, Beaton, Bob: Harbourside Elem. Sch. Principal -
Retirement, Mr. G. Gosse 4092
Vote - Affirmative 4092
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
TPW - Upper Blandford: Roads - Repair, Mr. J. Chataway 4093
ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS:
No. 511, C.B. - Econ. Dev. Plan: Introduction - Time Frame,
Mr. D. Dexter 4093
No. 512, Prem. - Gas Prices: Reduction - Provide,
Mr. Michel Samson 4094
No. 513, Health - Home Care Clients: Fee Hikes - Explain,
Mr. D. Dexter 4096
No. 514, Nat. Res. - Green Space: Crown Lands - Protect,
Ms. D. Whalen 4097
No. 515, Nat. Res. - Nictaux River: Clear-Cutting - Approval Explain,
Mr. J. MacDonell 4098
No. 516, Environ. & Lbr. - Aliant Strike: Emerg. Serv. -
Restoration Plan, Mr. R. MacKinnon 4099
No. 517, Nat. Res. - Crown Land: Downed Wood - Removal,
Ms. M. Raymond 4100
No. 518, TPW - Alder Bushes: Trimming - Responsibility,
Mr. H. Theriault 4101
No. 519, WCB - Supreme Court Decision: Implementation -
Delay Explain, Mr. F. Corbett 4103
No. 520, Com. Serv. - Food Security Rept.: Recommendations -
Implement, Ms. M. More 4104
No. 521, WCB - Supreme Court Decision: Consultations - Details,
Mr. K. Colwell 4105
No. 522, Ins. - Min.: Nova Scotians - Protect, Mr. G. Steele 4106
No. 523, Health - New Waterford Cons. Hosp.: Workers -
Health Problems, Mr. Manning MacDonald 4108
No. 524, TPW - Tendering: Minority Groups - Exclusion Explain,
Mr. H. Epstein 4109
No. 525, Health - DHA: Funding Formula - Status,
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 4110
No. 526, Health Prom. - Smoke-Free Places Leg.: Strategy - Include,
Mr. G. Gosse 4111
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 1:56 P.M. 4112
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 2:29 P.M. 4113
CWH REPORTS 4113
PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 26, Health Protection Act 4113
Hon. A. MacIsaac 4114
Mr. K. Deveaux 4114
Mr. Michel Samson 4115
Hon. A. MacIsaac 4116
Vote - Affirmative 4116
No. 40, Assessment Act 4116
Hon. B. Barnet 4116
Ms. M. Raymond 4116
Mr. Gerald Sampson 4117
Mr. W. Estabrooks 4119
Mr. K. Colwell 4121
Mr. R. MacKinnon 4122
Hon. B. Barnet 4125
Vote - Affirmative 4127
No. 46, Public Service Act 4128
Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4128
Mr. G. Gosse 4128
Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4129
Vote - Affirmative 4129
No. 48, Education Act 4129
Hon. J. Muir 4129
Mr. W. Estabrooks 4129
Mr. R. MacKinnon 4130
Hon. J. Muir 4131
Vote - Affirmative 4132
No. 70, Municipal Law Amendment (2004) Act 4132
No. 73, Justice Administration Amendment (2004) Act 4133
Hon. M. Baker 4133
Mr. Michel Samson 4133
Hon. M. Baker 4134
Vote - Affirmative 4134
No. 58, Mechanics' Lien Act 4135
Hon. M. Baker 4135
Mr. D. Dexter 4135
Mr. Michel Samson 4136
Hon. M. Baker 4137
Vote - Affirmative 4137
PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 54, Saint Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church Incorporation Act 4137
No. 55, Lenihan (Municipality of the District of Chester) Retiring
Allowance Act 4138
No. 56, Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters Act 4138
No. 60, Antigonish Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company Act 4138
No. 69, United Way of Halifax Region Act 4138
PRIVATE MEMBERS' PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 61, Theatres and Amusements Act 4139
Ms. J. Massey 4139
Vote - Affirmative 4141
PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 62, Financial Measures (2004) Act 4141
Hon. P. Christie 4141
Mr. G. Steele 4141
Ms. D. Whalen 4145
Mr. Michel Samson 4150
Hon. P. Christie 4154
Vote - Affirmative 4154
No. 74, Oil Refineries and L.N.G. Plants Municipal Taxation Act 4154
Hon. B. Barnet 4154
Mr. Manning MacDonald 4154
Mr. K. Colwell 4159
Mr. Michel Samson 4161
Mr. D. Dexter 4165
Mr. R. MacKinnon 4166
Hon. B. Barnet 4172
Vote - Affirmative 4173
HOUSE RECESSED AT 5:54 P.M. 4174
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 6:03 P.M. 4174
ARRIVAL OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR 4174
BILLS GIVEN ROYAL ASSENT:
Nos. 17, 26 and 40 4174
Nos. 46, 48, 49, 50, 51, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 and 60 4175
Nos. 61, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 73 and 74 4175
No. 78 4176
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again at the call of the Speaker 4176
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Res. 1997, MacLeod, Lauchie: Death of - Tribute, Hon. K. Morash 4177
Res. 1998, Tri-County Dist. Sch. Bd. Reg. Her. Fair: Winners -
Congrats., Hon. R. Hurlburt 4177
Res. 1999, Cheboque Sea Cadets (92) - Anniv. (60th),
Hon. R. Hurlburt 4178
Res. 2000, 4-H Weekend (Truro): Participants - Congrats.,
Hon. R. Hurlburt 4178
Res. 2001, McFadyen - Energy Dep. Min.: Work - Commend,
Hon. C. Clarke 4179
Res. 2002, CBRM - Econ. Renewal: Co-Operation - Encourage,
Hon. C. Clarke 4179
Res. 2003, Felix, Tanya: Women & Leadership Symposium -
Attendance, Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4180
Res. 2004, Praught, Allie: Holes in One - Congrats.,
Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4180
Res. 2005, Liverpool Multi-Service Ctr. - Design: Planners -
Congrats., Hon. K. Morash 4181
Res. 2006, Carleton Vol. FD: Bowling Tournament - Victory,
Hon. R. Hurlburt 4181
Res. 2007, Yar. Assoc. Commun. Residential Options: Shanty
Enterprises - Congrats., Hon. R. Hurlburt 4182
Res. 2008, Leahey, Dr. Shelagh - Cumming Bursary, Hon. R. Hurlburt 4182
Res. 2009, South West Heath Palliative Care Working Group:
Contributions - Recognize, Hon. R. Hurlburt 4183
Res. 2010, Bennett, Mark/Anderson, Mary - C.B. DHA Award,
Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4183
Res. 2011, Bowater Mersey - Anniv. (75th), Hon. K. Morash 4184
Res. 2012, Dobson, Stephen/Moore, Andrew: Bravery - Congrats.,
The Speaker 4184
Res. 2013, Smith, Fred: Southampton, Parrsboro, Advocate and Reg.
Health Bd. - Service, The Speaker 4185
Res. 2014, RCL - Call to Remembrance Comp.: Bridgewater HS -
Participation, Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 4185
Res. 2015, Parkview Educ. Ctr.: Wrestling Team - Bronze Medal,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 4186
Res. 2016, Bridgewater & Area Kinsmen Cadets: Nat'l. Star
Certification Exam. - Completion, Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 4186
Res. 2017, Lunenburg/Queens Big Brothers/Big Sisters: Vols. -
Thank, Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 4187
Res. 2018, Smith, Sue - N.S. Youth: Contributions - Thank,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 4187
Res. 2019, Rajaraman, Regnaswami/Guernsey, Duane:
Cancer Research - Recognize, Mr. B. Taylor 4188
Res. 2020, Fawcett, Grant - Newspaper Award, Mr. M. Parent 4188
Res. 2021, Purves, Adline - Birthday (100th), Hon. C. Clarke 4189
Res. 2022, Mem. Composite HS (Sydney Mines):
Energy Sector Opportunities - Preparation, Hon. C. Clarke 4189
Res. 2023, Sydney Mines & Dist. Commun. Ctr. - Anniv. (30th),
Hon. C. Clarke 4190
Res. 2024, Farmers Dairy Truro Cheese Div.: Awards - Congrats.,
Hon. J. Muir 4190
Res. 2025, Blois, Shauna - Vet. Comp.: Prize - Congrats.,
Hon. J. Muir 4191
Res. 2026, Sports - Cobequid Cougars: Boys Basketball Team -
Championship, Hon. J. Muir 4191
Res. 2027, NSAC: Research Funding - Congrats., Hon. J. Muir 4192
Res. 2028, Truro Scotiabank - Anniv. (100th), Hon. J. Muir 4192
Res 2029, Col. Co. United Way: Fin. Campaign - Congrats.,
Hon. J. Muir 4193
Res. 2030, Wentzel, Barbara/Jordan, Bernadette - Newspaper Award,
Hon. M. Baker 4193
Res. 2031, Lunenburg Progress - Enterprise/Lighthouse Log -
Newspaper Awards, Hon. M. Baker 4194
Res. 2032, Roblee, William: Retirement - Congrats., Hon. M. Baker 4194
Res. 2033, Parks, David - Birthday (65th), Hon. M. Baker 4195
Res. 2034, Yarmouth Vanguard - Newspaper Awards: Recipients -
Congrats., Hon. R. Hurlburt 4195
Res. 2035, MacDonald, Christine/Webster, John/Reporter Staff -
Newspaper Awards, Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4196
Res. 2036, Inverness Oran/Dunphy, Bill - Newspaper Awards,
Hon. Rodney MacDonald 4196
Res. 2037, Sim, Jeanette - HRDC: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. J. DeWolfe 4197
Res. 2038, World Sailing Championships (2004) -
N.S. Bid Organizers: Efforts - Applaud, Hon. P. Christie 4197
Res. 2039, West Pubnico Ambulance & Funeral Services: Service -
Thank, Hon. C. d'Entremont 4198
Res. 2040, Fraser, Jamie/Reid, Charlotte - 4-H Awards,
Mr. W. Langille 4198
Res. 2041, Jeddore Lodge & Cabins: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4199
Res. 2042, Len's Aluminium Welding & Fabrication: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4199
Res. 2043, Faulkner Ins. Agency: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4200
Res. 2044, Forest Hill Drug Mart: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4200
Res. 2045, Magneto Inductive Systems Ltd.: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4201
Res. 2046, Toddy's Restaurant & Lounge: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4201
Res. 2047, Salmon River House & Country Inn: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4202
Res. 2048, Currie's Ins.: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4202
Res. 2049, Tin Roof Enterprises: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4203
Res. 2050, Lakeview Home Hardware: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4203
Res. 2051, Unicorn Cottage Feline Boarding: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4204
Res. 2052, Eastern Shore Optical: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4204
Res. 2053, C thru Us: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4205
Res. 2054, The Eastern Shore Observer: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4205
Res. 2055, Union Print: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4206
Res. 2056, Lakeville Lumber & Portable Milling: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4206
Res. 2057, J's Fresh Cup and Laundromat: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4207
Res. 2058, KC Carpet Sales: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4207
Res. 2059, Auto Wheels in Motion: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4208
Res. 2060, Bakers Bent Wrench Ultramar Serv. Sta.: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4208
Res. 2061, Budget Glass: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4209
Res. 2062, Black Street Gallery: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4209
Res. 2063, Country Classic Cuts: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4210
Res. 2064, D K's Cycle Supplies: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4210
Res. 2065, D & L Nurseries: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4211
Res. 2066, Darr Welding and Fabricating Ltd.: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4211
Res. 2067, Eastern Shore Auto Sales and Repair: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4212
Res. 2068, Hilltop Childcare Centre: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4212
Res. 2069, Home Hardware Building Centre: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4213
Res. 2070, Mark Fuels Ltd.: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4213
Res. 2071, Mr. Pizza: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4214
Res. 2072, Musquodoboit Harbour Irving: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4214
Res. 2073, Napa Auto Parts: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4215
Res. 2074, Old Time Friends Antiques, Collectibles and Dolls:
Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4215
Res. 2075, Old Anderson House Craft Shop and Gallery:
Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4216
Res. 2076, Ongs Restaurant: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4216
Res. 2077, On-Site Mobile Service: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4217
Res. 2078, Rowlings Funeral Home: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4217
Res. 2079: Seacoast Escapes: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4218
Res. 2080, Toulany's Meat Market: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4218
Res. 2081, Wild Grape Florals: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4219
Res. 2082, Sherry's Fish and Chips: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4219
Res. 2083, Shore Print: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4220
Res. 2084, Siteman's Petro Can: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4220
Res. 2085, Aquaprime Mussel Ranch: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4221
Res. 2086, Cedar Living Ltd.: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4221
Res. 2087, E & F Webber Lakeside Park Ltd.: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4222
Res. 2088, A 1 Lakeview B&B: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4222
Res. 2089, Community Rental and Sales: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4223
Res. 2090, ChemTech Services Ltd.: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4223
Res. 2091, Maritime Greetings Inc.: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4224
Res. 2092, Lorette's Automotive Repair and Welding: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4224
Res. 2093, Eastern Shore Auto Salvage: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4225
Res. 2094, Memories Trophies, Engraving and Gifts: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4225
Res. 2095, Ol Post Office Convenience Store: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4226
Res. 2096, Gaetz Custom Homes: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4226
Res. 2097, The Elephant's Nest: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4227
Res. 2098, Atlantic Water Supply: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4227
Res. 2099, Cousin's Service Centre Ltd.: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4228
Res. 2100, Marine Drive Courier: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4228
Res. 2101, Ezra Electric: Contributions - Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4229
Res. 2102, G & R Woodworking: Contributions - Recognize,
Mr. W. Dooks 4229
Res. 2103, Pettipas Pumping and Septic Service: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. W. Dooks 4230
Res. 2104, MacPherson, Ken/Bridgewater-Middleton
Monitor-Examiner, Mr. M. Parent 4230
Res. 2105, Coldbrook Lions Club: Efforts - Acknowledge,
Hon. D. Morse 4231
Res. 2106, Girouard/Giroir/Gerrior Fam. Reunion: Vols. -
Congrats., Mr. Michel Samson 4231
Res. 2107, Godin Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4232
Res. 2108, Granger Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4233
Res. 2109, Guillot Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4234
Res. 2110, Haché Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4235
Res. 2111, Harrington Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4235
Res. 2112, Harris Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4236
Res. 2113, Hebert Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4237
Res. 2114, Henry Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson^ 4238
Res. 2115, Hubbard Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4239
Res. 2116, Jacquard Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4240
Res. 2117, Jeddry Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4241
Res. 2118, Johnson/Jeansonne/Jeanson Fam. Reunion: Vols. -
Congrats., Mr. Michel Samson 4242
Res. 2119, Kinney Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4243
Res. 2120, Labine Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4243
Res. 2121, Landry Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4244
Res. 2122, LeBlanc Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4245
Res. 2123, Lefave Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4246
Res. 2124, Léger Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4247
Res. 2125, Lejeune (dit Briard) Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4248
Res. 2126, Levangie/Lavandier Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4249
Res. 2127, Maillet Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4250
Res. 2128, Mallet Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4251
Res. 2129, Martin Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4251
Res. 2130, Mazerolle Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4252
Res. 2131, Melanson Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4253
Res. 2132, Muis/Muise/Meuse Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4254
Res. 2133, Moulaison Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4255
Res. 2134, Paon Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4256
Res. 2135, Pellerin Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4257
Res. 2136, Pettipas Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4258
Res. 2137, Poirier Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4258
Res. 2138, Pothier/Pottier Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4259
Res. 2139, Prince Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4260
Res. 2140, Richard Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4261
Res. 2141, Robichaud/Robicheau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4262
Res. 2142, Roy Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats., Mr. Michel Samson 4263
Res. 2143, Saindon/Sindon Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4264
Res. 2144, Samson Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4264
Res. 2145, Saulnier Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4265
Res. 2146, Savoie Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4266
Res. 2147, Surette Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4267
Res. 2148, Thériault Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4268
Res. 2149, Thibeau/Thibeault Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4269
Res. 2150, Thibodeau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4270
Res. 2151, Trahan Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4270
Res. 2152, Vacon Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4271
Res. 2153, Allain Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4272
Res. 2154, Amirault Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4273
Res. 2155, Arsenault Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4274
Res. 2156, Aucoin Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4275
Res. 2157, Babin Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4276
Res. 2158, Babineau(x) Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4277
Res. 2159, Barillot Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4277
Res. 2160, Bastarache/Basque Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4278
Res. 2161, Belliveau/Beliveau/Bélivaux/Bélivos/Bélivo Fam. Reunion:
Vols. - Congrats., Mr. Michel Samson 4279
Res. 2162, Benoit/Bennett Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4280
Res. 2163, Berthier/Burkey Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4281
Res. 2164, Blanchard Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4282
Res. 2165, Bonnevie Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4283
Res. 2166, Boucher Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4284
Res. 2167, Boudreau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4284
Res. 2168, Bourgeois Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4285
Res. 2169, Bourque/Bourg Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4286
Res. 2170, Breau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4287
Res. 2171, Broussard/Brossard Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4288
Res. 2172, Chiasson Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4289
Res. 2173, Clairmont Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4290
Res. 2174, Comeau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4291
Res. 2175, Cordeau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4292
Res. 2176, Cormier Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4292
Res. 2177, Corporon Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4293
Res. 2178, Cottreau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4294
Res. 2179, Crochet Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4295
Res. 2180, Daigle Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4296
Res. 2181, David Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4297
Res. 2182, DeCoste Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4298
Res. 2183, Delorey/DesLauriers Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4299
Res. 2184, D'Entremont Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4300
Res. 2185, d'Eon Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4300
Res. 2186, Deveau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4301
Res. 2187, deVillier Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4302
Res. 2188, Doiron Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4303
Res. 2189, Doucet Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4304
Res. 2190, Dugas Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4305
Res. 2191, Dulong Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4306
Res. 2192, Dupuis Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4306
Res. 2193, Fitzgerald Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4307
Res. 2194, Forest Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4308
Res. 2195, Fougere Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4309
Res. 2196, Frotten Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4310
Res. 2197, Gallant Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4311
Res. 2198, Gaudet Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4312
Res. 2199, Gautreau Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4312
Res. 2200, Gauvin Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4313
Res. 2201, Geddrey/Guidry Fam. Reunion: Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. Michel Samson 4314
Res. 2202, Harrison, David - Mainland North Vol. Recognition Award,
Ms. Diana Whalen 4315
Res. 2203, Ainsworth, Marguerite - Mainland North Vol.
Recognition Award, Ms. Diana Whalen 4316
Res. 2204, Lightfoot, Chester: Death of - Tribute, Hon. D. Morse 4316
Res. 2205, Chisholm, Delaney - Police Exemplary Serv. Medal,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4317
Res. 2206, MacNeil, Ryan: Accomplishments - Congrats.,
Mr. S. McNeil 4317
Res. 2207, Metlege, Anthony - Diman Assoc. Can.: Contributions -
Acknowledge, Ms. D. Whalen 4318
Res. 2208, Mushaboom FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4318
Res. 2209, Seven Communities FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4319
Res. 2210, Sheet Hbr. FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4319
Res. 2211, Moser River & Dist. FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4320
Res. 2212, Chedabucto FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4320
Res. 2213, Ecum Secum FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4321
Res. 2214, Guysborough FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4321
Res. 2215, Hazel Hill and Dist. FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4322
Res. 2216, Larrys River and Dist. FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4322
Res. 2217, Little Dover FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4323
Res. 2218, Mulgrave FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4323
Res. 2219, Canso FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4324
Res. 2220, District 6 FD of Guys. Co.: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4324
Res. 2221, Erinville FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4325
Res. 2222, Mooseland FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4325
Res. 2223, Islandview FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4326
Res. 2224, Liscomb FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4326
Res. 2225, Tangier And Area FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4327
Res. 2226, Whitehead FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4327
Res. 2227, Sherbrooke and Area FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4328
Res. 2228, Seashore FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4328
Res. 2229, Manchester-Boylston FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4329
Res. 2230, Harbourview FD: Exec./Firefighters - Commend,
Mr. R. Chisholm 4329
Res. 2231, St. Mary's and Dist. Firefighters Assoc.: Exec./Firefighters -
Commend, Mr. R. Chisholm 4330

[Page 4059]

HALIFAX, THURSDAY, MAY 20, 2004

Fifty-ninth General Assembly

First Session

12:00 NOON

SPEAKER

Hon. Murray Scott

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Mr. James DeWolfe, Ms. Joan Massey, Mr. Russell MacKinnon

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Before we begin the daily routine, I would like to bring to the attention of the members some very special guests who are here in the House with us today in the east gallery. We have 38 Grade 8 students from the Parrsboro Regional High School in Parrsboro, Cumberland County. They are from the beautiful constituency of Cumberland South. With them we have teachers Jennifer LeGere, April Allen, and Eleanor White and, as well, chaperone Pastor Greg Doyle, who have come to Halifax today to have an opportunity to watch the proceedings of the House and tour Province House and Halifax. They have also had an opportunity to meet some of the members of the Legislature, including the Minister of Education. They had some good questions for me and for the minister and I know he received them very well. So I would ask all our visitors from Cumberland County, from Parrsboro, to rise and receive the warm welcome of the House, please. (Applause)

I certainly hope our guests enjoy the proceedings today.

We will begin the daily routine.

4059

[Page 4060]

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition with regard to autism in Nova Scotia. The operative clause of the petition is: "We believe that the provincial government ought to provide access to publicly funded speech and behavioural therapy both before and during the child's school years to all autistic children in Nova Scotia." There are approximately 225 names on the petition and I have affixed my name to it as well.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to present the January 2004 Annual Report of the Nova Scotia Teachers College Foundation.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. PETER CHRISTIE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table an updated Public Health Administration chart to replace the chart on Page 13 of the 2004-05 Budget Address and also to table Order in Council No. 20413, dated January 23rd, regarding additional appropriations for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2003.

MR. SPEAKER: The documents are tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 1957

HON. JOHN HAMM (The Premier): Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

[Page 4061]

Whereas the operation of this House would not run smoothly without the help of the many staff of the House of Assembly, including Mike Laffin and Peter Theriault who oversee its operation, their staff of Pages and messengers, not to mention the very able Commissionaires of this House, chef Charlie and our maintenance personnel; and

Whereas we salute also the very able staff of the Legislative Library, led by Margaret Murphy and Sandy Cook, including staff of the Committee's Office, and note that every word of the proceedings of the House becomes a part of history thanks to the tireless Hansard staff, led by Robert Kinsman, and the technical wizards of Legislative TV; and

Whereas staff to be thanked also include our knowledgeable clerks under the direction of Rod MacArthur and staff, and Legislative Counsel under the leadership of Gordon Hebb, as well as our ever-present Sergeant-at-Arms;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House rise and applaud our talented, hard-working staff of the Nova Scotia Legislature, and commend each of them for their superb efforts on our behalf during the 2004 Spring session.

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. (Standing Ovation)

Thank you. We certainly appreciate all the hard work and effort on behalf of the staff, the Pages, and the staff of Province House.

The honourable Minister of Environment and Labour.

RESOLUTION NO. 1958

HON. KERRY MORASH: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

[Page 4062]

Whereas Techsploration is a province-wide program that introduces Grade 9 girls to occupations in trades, technology and science by allowing them to meet and learn from female mentors in industry; and

Whereas the program expands the students' range of career choices, improving their chances of building more financially secure futures for themselves; and

Whereas the movement of women into trades, technology and science strengthens these fields by diversifying their workforces, and strengthens Nova Scotia's competitiveness by introducing fresh perspectives to these industries;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the students, mentors and sponsors of Techsploration on a bigger and better year of bringing girls and science, trades and technology together.

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 Agriculture and Fisheries.

RESOLUTION NO. 1959

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the farm gate production value for the aquaculture sector in Nova Scotia has increased by 30 per cent in 2003, to $40 million; and

Whereas direct aquaculture farm employment has increased by 138 jobs during the past year; and

Whereas aquaculture represents an excellent development opportunity in coastal and rural Nova Scotia;

[Page 4063]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the aquaculture sector and encourage further development of aquaculture in 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.

[12:15 p.m.]

The honourable Minister of Health.

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, before I give notice of this resolution, I would like to draw to the attention of members, in your gallery, the presence of the members of the Blue Nose International Marathon Organizing Committee. We have Gerald Walsh, co-chairman; Rod McCulloch, co-chairman; Craig Cherrett; Sarah Young; Neil McCulloch; Susan Newhook; Brad Smith; John Sao Miguel; Rob Atkinson; and Chris Larson. I would ask them to rise and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

RESOLUTION NO. 1960

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable Minister of Health Promotion, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the inaugural Blue Nose International Marathon is set to run this weekend in Halifax with over 3,000 participants, including runners from across Nova Scotia, every province in Canada, and over 10 U.S. States; in addition to over 700 volunteers and thousands who are expected to line the race route; and

Whereas the marathon weekend is designed to be the People's Marathon with the diversity to encourage and challenge runners of all levels, young and old, first-timers and seasoned marathoners; and

[Page 4064]

Whereas the marathon and its race route are designed to showcase the beauty of our city and our province, with a course that showcases this great historic port;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature recognize the significant contributions made by the volunteers and the community, and the efforts of everyone involved to promote healthy living in staging this significant inaugural event, and wish them continued success and good running 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 Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 1961

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I am also reading this resolution on behalf of the Minister of Health Promotion, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas increased physical activity and healthy eating are important to living a healthy lifestyle; and

Whereas the Town of Lunenburg is striving to improve the health of its citizens to dispel recent newspaper reports about the health of South Shore residents; and

Whereas the Town of Lunenburg has created a recreation fund which will support physical activity within the town, and has instituted the Community Wellness initiative which promotes healthy eating and exercise at seminars;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate the Town of Lunenburg for recognizing the importance of improved health for its citizens and taking action by implementing programs to improve the health of its residents.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 4065]

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. 86 - Entitled An Act to Prohibit the Taking of a Photograph with a Camera Phone in a Prohibited Place. (Mr. Russell MacKinnon)

MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that this bill be read a second time on a future day.

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

RESOLUTION NO. 1962

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

Whereas Tony Randall, an actor who achieved stardom on stage, television and the silver screen, passed away on Tuesday, May 18th, at the age of 84; and

Whereas in his 60-year career, Tony Randall demonstrated his commitment to the art of acting, no more so than when he contributed $1 million to establish the National Actors Theatre; and

Whereas Nova Scotians owe a particular debt of gratitude to Tony Randall, who ensured the survival and success of Neptune Theatre, our foremost professional theatre, by becoming a loyal friend and a fundraiser;

Therefore be it resolved that this House express its most sincere condolences to the family of the late Tony Randall and its appreciation for the gifts he shared with the world.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 4066]

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1963

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

Whereas today, Thursday, May 21, 2004, Senator Al Graham will retire from the Senate of Canada; and

Whereas Senator Al Graham has been representing the people of his country, his province, and his native Cape Breton with dignity and distinction for 40 years; and

Whereas his colleagues in Ottawa will miss his wise and quiet counsel and his family will enjoy more of his time and close presence;

Therefore be it resolved that all of us who are fortunate enough to be involved in public service endeavour to follow his example and live by words he often spoke - be something, do something, help someone, and trust in God.

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 Premier.

[Page 4067]

RESOLUTION NO. 1964

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

Whereas this year marks the 100th Anniversary of the Stellarton Amateur Athletic Association; and

Whereas on July 22nd, festivities will be held on the Albion Field, including mini-ball games, a senior ball game and, of course, food and other fun; and

Whereas the association, composed then and now of members from all over Pictou County, will be officially honoured for its work as will be former players who made a significant impact in the sport of baseball in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate the Stellarton Amateur Athletic Association for a century of excellence in the promotion of healthy activity and excellence in the sport of baseball and wish the association many more years of success at the Albion Field in Stellarton.

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 Premier.

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I wish to say that the Albion Field has continuously been a ball field for 100 years.

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

RESOLUTION NO. 1965

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

[Page 4068]

Whereas an integral part of the Workers' Compensation system are the Injured Workers Associations that exists throughout this province; and

Whereas these groups work tirelessly on behalf of injured workers from one end of the province to the other - none more so than in Cape Breton; and

Whereas no one better exemplified this dedication than Lachie MacLeod who passed away earlier today;

Therefore be it resolved that this House sends its deepest condolences to the MacLeod family and express its admiration for his tireless efforts on behalf of injured workers throughout 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 Leader of the Liberal Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 1966

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

Whereas June 2004 will mark the 11th Anniversary of annual Child Care Awareness Days throughout our province; and

Whereas the quality child care provided by all daycare operators throughout our province provides for our children a firm foundation in life; and

Whereas the variety of events, both in HRM and throughout our province, will showcase the invaluable work provided by child care practitioners in preparing our youngest citizens to be successful adults;

[Page 4069]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge the great job all child care professionals do throughout our province and extend to all involved our best wishes for a successful awareness month.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1967

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

Whereas Police Week provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on the major contributions made by our police officers as well as all those who work together to build safe and secure communities; and

Whereas Kentville Chief of Police, Mark Mander, presented the Advertiser newspaper with the Kentville Police Community Crime Prevention Award in recognition of the paper's efforts to prevent crime in their community; and

Whereas Advertiser Associate Editor Brent Fox accepted the award on behalf of the newsroom at a ceremony on May 13th;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Brent Fox and all the staff of the Advertiser on receiving the Kentville Police Community Crime Prevention Award and recognize that we all play a vital role in preventing crimes in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 4070]

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1968

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 Shearwater Military Family Resource Centre provides excellent service and support to the families of our military personnel and is a lifeline for many when their spouses are deployed overseas; and

Whereas the Shearwater MFRC recently obtained funding from the IWK Foundation to develop a Learning and Growing with Puppets initiative, utilizing puppets to teach children about such diverse subjects as bullying, vandalism, family violence, substance abuse and self-esteem; and

Whereas the Shearwater MFRC will implement the puppet program in September, 2004 as a result of the help by the Departments of Community Services, Health Promotion, the Capital Health District, Michelle Mallette, Heather Cudmore McCarthy, the Halifax and Greenwood Military Family Resource Centres, Tallahassee Community School and École Bois-Jois;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the Shearwater Military Family Resource Centre on the development of its Learning and Growing with Puppets initiative and wish Executive Director Maryanne McKinnon Rodriguez and her staff the best of luck in the implementation of this very important program.

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.

[Page 4071]

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1969

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 provincial government will be creating 600 summer jobs for students this year; and

Whereas this is a marked decrease from the 2,600 jobs created by the previous Liberal Administration in 1999; and

Whereas according to the Canadian Institute of Health Information, Nova Scotia now has the second highest youth unemployment in Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that the provincial government make student employment in Nova Scotia a priority.

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 Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 1970

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

Whereas the first Canadian Female Country Music Artist to become a member of the famed American institution, the Grand Ole Opry will take place on Saturday, June 12th; and

[Page 4072]

Whereas the artist is none other than Terri Clark, a four-time and reigning Canadian Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year award winner and also author of the smash hit, No Fear, written in honour of Canada's Special Olympic athletes; and

Whereas Ms. Clark is only the third Canadian besides Hank Snow and Stu Phillips to ever be invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs extend our sincere congratulations to country music star Terri Clark who hit the country music charts in 1995 with her initial smash hit, Better Things To Do, and has never looked back as she is formally inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on June 12th.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1971

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

Whereas farmers are not only the salt of the earth but are also as enduring as the land they work; and

Whereas the image of the wise old farmer as someone to be listened to and appreciated is as common and true as those of wise old judges and other learned folk; and

Whereas on May 10, 2004, Warren MacPhee, a lifelong farmer of Upper Nine Mile River, celebrated his 85th birthday;

Therefore be it resolved this House of Assembly give best wishes to Warren MacPhee on the occasion of his 85th birthday, wishing him many more to come and thank him as a farmer for dedicating his life to providing for his family and as a result for us consumers.

[Page 4073]

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 Clayton Park.

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, if it would be fine, I'd like to do an introduction at this time as well. Thank you very much. I'd like to draw the members' attention to two visitors who are in our west gallery today. They're residents of Halifax Clayton Park. One is Mrs. Robab Haghpanh and she is very active in lobbying for help for autistic children. She's accompanied today by her daughter who is a university student, Nagar Sakhai. Thank you, if we could give them a warm welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: We welcome our special guests to the gallery today.

The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

[12:30 p.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 1972

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on May 21st the Department of Education will be hosting a Model Legislature for 52 high school students from across Nova Scotia; and

Whereas there are several events planned, including workshops, a banquet, a tour of Province House and a tour of Halifax; and

Whereas this Model Legislature will allow delegates to participate in caucus planning meetings and discussions to gain a greater understanding of the legislative process;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend their support to all of the delegates and wish them well on this educational weekend.

[Page 4074]

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 Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank.

RESOLUTION NO. 1973

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

Whereas the Fall River Rebels recently captured the Nova Scotia Mini 1 Girls Divisional Basketball Championship; and

Whereas the Rebels' huge win came in a thrilling fashion as they edged the Bedford Eagles 32 to 31 in the championship final; and

Whereas the Rebels are led by Head Coach Les Rutherford and Assistant Coaches Eldon Caldwell and Kathy Perrin;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs recognize the championship honours recently won by the Fall River Rebels and wish them every future success.

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.

[Page 4075]

The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

RESOLUTION NO. 1974

MS. JOAN MASSEY: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas sky-rocketing gasoline prices are making it even more difficult for low-income Nova Scotians to make ends meet and there seems to be no end in sight to these prices; and

Whereas an efficient and integrated public transportation system would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, battle climate change and provide more affordable transportation for many people; and

Whereas other provinces like Manitoba are encouraging people to do their part to reduce greenhouse gases by promoting this year's Commuter Challenge advocating alternative forms of transportation and commuting together and by recently introducing a Climate Change Community Challenge;

Therefore be it resolved that Nova Scotia start making a genuine attempt to reduce greenhouse gases by following the lead of other provinces, improving public education and challenging all of us to do our part.

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 Kings West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1975

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

Whereas one year ago today the first case of BSE was discovered on a farm in western Canada; and

[Page 4076]

Whereas farmers across this country were devastated by the negative impact on their industry; and

Whereas Canadians from one end of the country to the other gave their unqualified support to farmers throughout this very difficult time;

Therefore be it resolved that this House encourage the Nova Scotia Government to continue efforts with the federal government to get the Canada-U.S. border open to Canadian beef exports.

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, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1976

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

Whereas yesterday, Cole Harbour's 16-year-old Sidney Crosby added one more high-profile title to what is becoming a long list when he was named the Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year at a luncheon in Kelowna, B.C.; and

Whereas the Rimouski Oceanic's centre, the youngest player to ever win the award, is also on top this year as top scorer in the entire CHL as a rookie with 54 goals and 81 assists in 59 games, setting a new Quebec Major Junior Hockey League record for points by a 16-year-old and became the youngest player to ever score a goal for Canada at the World Junior Hockey tournament; and

Whereas always the modest team player, Crosby commented that in his rookie season, "I just wanted to work hard every night and hopefully I'd see results" - a personal goal he has obviously exceeded having also been named the CHL Rookie of the Year, and having won the Canada Post Cup for earning the most points in three-star selection;

[Page 4077]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House applaud the achievements to date of this young and extremely talented Nova Scotia athlete and wish Mr. Crosby continued success.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1977

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 32nd Annual Provincial Black Basketball Association invitational tournament is taking place at various facilities throughout Halifax May 19th-23rd; and

Whereas this tournament is one of the largest cultural events in the African Nova Scotian Community bringing together local university players such as Saint Mary's Gabe Goree, St. Francis Xavier recruit Tyler Richards and from the NBA, Jalen Rose and Alvin Williams of the Toronto Raptors and Jamaal Maglore of the New Orlean Hornets; and

Whereas the Provincial Black Basketball Association promotes the Back to the Books program (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. EPSTEIN: Whereas the Provincial Black Basketball Association promotes the Back to the Books program and mentors to youth from Grade 8 to Grade 12, about the importance of academic as well as athletic achievements;

[Page 4078]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the sponsors and organizers of the Provincial Black Basketball Association and commend President Carl Gannon, Shawn Mantley, Clayton Gannon and Irvine Carvery for their efforts to encourage, motivate and inspire youth and the entire community through participation in this annual event.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1978

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

Whereas Martin MacDonald of Glace Bay is the former custodian of St. Michael's Junior High School and a former Fire Chief of the Glace Bay Volunteer Fire Department; and

Whereas Martin MacDonald is described as someone who has never stopped giving back to his community and is always the first one to help others; and

Whereas Sunday, May 23rd, an Appreciation Day will be held at St. Michael's Junior High School for Martin MacDonald;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House pay tribute to Martin MacDonald for his selfless dedication to his community and his long service as school custodian.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 4079]

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 Environment and Labour.

RESOLUTION NO. 1979

HON. KERRY MORASH: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Wilber Jordan McCoombs was a resident of Queens County for most of his life except for his time spent serving his province and his country as a member of the West Nova Scotia Regiment, Canada's Merchant Marine and the Royal Canadian Air Force; and

Whereas Wilber McCoombs was said to have nine lives after surviving the sinking of the Empress of Britain in 1940, narrowly escaping from two separate airplane crashes and spending nearly two years as a Prisoner of War in the European Theatre; and

Whereas Wilber McCoombs returned to Queens County a hero, working until his retirement at the Mersey Paper Company in Brooklyn and serving as the Queens County representative for the Prisoners of War Association;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House pay tribute to Wilber McCoombs who passed away on April 2, 2004, a husband, father, a grandfather, a friend and a hero.

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 Pictou West.

[Page 4080]

RESOLUTION NO. 1980

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

Whereas the School-Community Outreach Readiness Endeavour program, better known as SCORE, located in River John, Pictou County is closing today, May 20, 2004, because of a lack of funding; and

Whereas this SCORE program has been a wonderful asset to the community and has vastly helped three-to-five-year-olds in their social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth in becoming much more school ready; and

Whereas both the federal government, the original funding source, and this provincial government through the Department of Community Services has thus far not provided funding to keep this very needed SCORE program operating;

Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Community Services work with his department to review the Child Development Centre Grant application from SCORE to find some way to allow this valuable program to continue.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Digby-Annopolis

RESOLUTION NO. 1981

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

Whereas because gasoline prices have skyrocketed as of late and nobody wants to give drivers a break, the least they could do is help the local service stations; and

Whereas their margin is so low when customers use credit cards, the service station has to pay all the profit to the banks; and

Whereas if the service stations were not selling hotdogs and pop they would be out of business because the refineries and the government are blind with greed;

Therefore be it resolved that this government take immediate action by taking off the

blinders, and help save these rural and urban service stations.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 4081]

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

Is it agreed?

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Education.

RESOLUTION NO. 1982

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Agridome in Bible Hill officially opened on Friday, May 14th; and

Whereas the Agridome is already being used by agricultural organizations and is now home to Winter soccer for the Central Colchester Soccer Association, Highland Soccer and also hosts lacrosse, baseball, football and a walking club; and

Whereas there is community time scheduled for supervised games and sport activities for children and adults who might not otherwise have an opportunity to participate year-round;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate and thank the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Commission for its tremendous efforts which led to the building of the Agridome, a facility which will greatly contribute to the healthy and active lifestyles of Nova Scotians, as well as hosting agricultural and other types of community events.

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.

[Page 4082]

The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 1983

MS. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas John Ryan has been a role model for pharmacists throughout Nova Scotia and the Maritime Provinces for both his professional work and ideals; and

Whereas John Ryan was recently recognized by the Halifax Regional Municipality, the Province of Nova Scotia and this Legislature for his volunteer service to many community organizations; and

Whereas John Ryan has received several awards from provincial and national pharmacy associations for his ongoing service and vision;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate John Ryan, who will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by Dalhousie University in recognition of his outstanding leadership and contribution to his profession and community.

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 Leader of the Liberal Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 1984

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

Whereas the Métis Nation has a long history and deep roots here in the Maritime Provinces; and

[Page 4083]

Whereas the Eastern Woodland Métis Nation Nova Scotia represents and responds to the political, cultural, social and economic needs and interests of Métis Aboriginal people in this province; and

Whereas the Eastern Woodland Métis Nation have identified over 3,000 Métis people in Nova Scotia and wish to be officially recognized in this province;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House call upon the government to meet with representatives of this group to better understand the history of the Métis people in this region and that the government consider giving an appropriate form of provincial recognition to the Eastern Woodland Métis Nation of 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 Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 1985

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Mr. William Roblee has held the position of teacher at Riverport Elementary and principal at Gold River Western Shore Elementary, Blockhouse Elementary, Hebbville Elementary, Lunenburg Academy and Lunenburg Junior Senior High School; and

Whereas William Roblee has been a volunteer coach of basketball, soccer, volleyball and an avid runner who has promoted healthy living to his students and competed in 70 marathons; and

Whereas William Roblee spearheaded the Pumkin Patrol, which partnered school, community and law enforcement to promote a safe and responsible Halloween celebration in the Town of Lunenburg, which demonstrates the high quality of leadership he has shown to his students through good times and challenging times over the past 13 years he has been principal at Lunenburg Junior Senior High School;

[Page 4084]

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Mr. William Roblee on his contributions to the students and communities he has served over the past 33 years, and wish him well in his retirement from public school administration.

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.

[12:45 p.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 1986

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

Whereas one of the most prestigious honours bestowed upon a unit of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets is being afforded the privilege and distinction of the Freedom of the City; and

Whereas the tradition of being granted Freedom of the City originates from a custom first observed in the Cities of London and Edinburgh in the 17th Century, when "the right, title, privilege, honour and distinction of marching on ceremonial occasions with bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying" and was first accorded to the Town Guard; and

Whereas on May 22, 2004, at 10:00 a.m., the Whitney Pier 587 Air Cadet Squadron will parade through the streets of Sydney in honour of their 50th Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the Legislative Assembly congratulate the Whitney Pier 587 Air Cadet Squadron on being granted the Freedom of the City for its 50 years of meritorious service, recognizing the admirable record of this outstanding unit, and the affection and esteem with which it is held by the community.

[Page 4085]

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1987

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 Canadian Institute for Health Information's latest health indicators report shows that Nova Scotia has the dubious distinction of having the highest crime rate, excluding traffic, east of Manitoba; and

Whereas this report shows that Nova Scotia has a substantially higher crime rate than that of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland; and

Whereas it is unlikely that any one single factor or theory accounts for this higher crime rate;

Therefore be it resolved that the Department of Justice, with other government departments, develop a comprehensive multi-faceted action plan to deal with the ever-increasing crime rate 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.

[Page 4086]

The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

RESOLUTION NO. 1988

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

Whereas the Team Canada Polar Bears selected young ringette players aged 15 to 25 from across the country to represent Canada at the Challenge Cup in Helsinki and the Czech Challenge Cup in Prague in August 2004; and

Whereas Kristina van Eden of Lower Sackville is one of only two athletes in Atlantic Canada invited to join Canada's team for these tournaments; and

Whereas in addition to the Challenge Cups, these young women will be playing exhibition games throughout Finland featuring many of the best ringette players in the world;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislative Assembly congratulate ringette player Kristina van Eden on being selected as a member of the Team Canada Polar Bears, and wish her and her teammates success in August in Helsinki and Prague.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1989

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

Whereas Michael Kennedy, a Grade 9 student at Bridgeport School, has proven he is a very capable debater; and

[Page 4087]

Whereas Michael placed first in the Grade 9 division at the 27th annual public speaking event at Memorial High School; and

Whereas the Glace Bay student also placed first overall in the junior high division at the event sponsored by the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Michael Kennedy on a fine showing and wish him all the best in his future endeavours in public speaking.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1990

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

Whereas enforcement and protection by the rule of law is necessary for every community's safety and advancement; and

Whereas the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have a well-deserved worldwide reputation as a premier and professional public police force, with a presence in the Indian Brook community for some years; and

Whereas on May 5, 2004, the RCMP and the community of Indian Brook celebrated the opening of a new RCMP detachment facility in that community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the community of Indian Brook and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police on their continuing relationship and wish them success in their future together.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 4088]

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1991

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 NDP claims to represent average Nova Scotians by making statements like big insurance companies are getting rich on the backs of Nova Scotians, but apparently it's okay that large oil companies are getting rich on the backs of Nova Scotians; and

Whereas on the one hand the NDP condemns support for big business like Sobeys or Michelin, but on the other they applaud support for large multinational oil companies; and

Whereas the NDP are currently supporting a backdoor corporate handout to Imperial Oil that is the equivalent of what the NDP used to call corporate welfare and it will be paid by the taxpayers of the Halifax Regional Municipality;

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House ask that the real NDP stand up and explain why they support using taxpayers' dollars to provide a subsidy to a large oil company while that same company is getting rich by charging Nova Scotians $1 a litre for gas at the pumps.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East on an introduction.

MS. JOAN MASSEY: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to welcome, in the west gallery, some students from the political science class from Bridgeway Academy, which is in my riding of Dartmouth East. They're here today with George Doucet who was a former MLA for Halifax Cobequid, and a former Speaker in 1977-78, and he was a Liberal MLA. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: We certainly welcome our special guests to the gallery today.

[Page 4089]

The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

RESOLUTION NO. 1992

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: He was a pretty fine school principal too.

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

Whereas the TASA Atom A Ducks captured the 2004 Provincial Championships in Yarmouth; and

Whereas this season's championship is a result of many hours of practice; and

Whereas these hockey players have had a great, fun-filled season;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly congratulate coaches Craig Butler, Darryl Creaser, Gordon Delano and Paul Cook, and the players of the TASA Atom A Ducks, on their Provincial Championship.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1993

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 Parent Teacher Organization at Astral Drive Elementary School recognized that new playground equipment was required for the children at the school and in the community at large; and

[Page 4090]

Whereas under the leadership of Arlene White the PTO raised over $21,000 in eight months to cover a large portion of the cost of replacing the playground equipment, a remarkable feat and a sign of the commitment of the parents, staff of Astral Drive Elementary School, and the residents in the area; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Office of Health Promotion and the Halifax Regional Municipality provided the remaining funds required to complete the replacement project;

Therefore be it resolved that this House recognize the efforts of the Astral Drive Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization, in particular Arlene White, and all the parents and staff at the school, in replacing the playground equipment at the school and ensuring a safe and healthy activity remains in the community on which children can play.

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 during the last election the New Democratic Party and its Leader campaigned on what they called a Better Deal for Today's Families; and

Whereas the NDP Leader railed against big insurance companies for skyrocketing insurance premiums, but now that same Leader believes it's okay to subsidize big oil companies profiting from skyrocketing gasoline prices; and

Whereas unfortunately for Nova Scotians, NDP principles don't apply to big oil companies who are getting rich on the backs of Nova Scotian drivers;

[Page 4091]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize that the NDP supports a subsidy for Imperial Oil, but not for consumers of their gasoline, and that the NDP change their mantra from a Better Deal for Today's Families to a Better Deal for Today's Big Oil.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 1995

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas David Parks of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, will be celebrating his 65th birthday on May 26th; and

Whereas David has been long respected as an insurance agent with Lunenburg Insurance; and

Whereas David has been very involved with St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Lunenburg, and was the organist for many years;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly wish David all the best as he celebrates with his family and many friends on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

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.

[Page 4092]

RESOLUTION NO. 1996

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

Whereas for 34 years Mr. Bob Beaton worked as an educator in the school system of the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board; and

Whereas for the last nine years Bob Beaton has held the positions of Vice-Principal and then in the Whitney Pier area, the Principal of the new Harbourside Elementary School; and

Whereas on June 26, 2004, Bob Beaton will retire from his position as Principal of Harbourside Elementary School and from the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this Legislative Assembly congratulate Bob Beaton on his retirement and thank him for his many years of dedicated service and commitment to the education of the youth in our community.

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.

There has been a request to revert to the order of business of Presenting and Reading Petitions.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 4093]

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Chester-St. Margaret's.

MR. JOHN CHATAWAY: Mr. Speaker, I would like to present a petition from the residents of Upper Blandford. They are, ". . . submitting a formal request for repairs to the section of Highway 329 which serves Upper Blandford. Specifically, this section travels from the junction of the main Highway 329 to the end of the Upper Blandford Road . . ." I would like to present this petition and I have signed it.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS

MR. SPEAKER: Question Period will begin at 12:56 p.m. and end at 1:56 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

C.B. - ECON. DEV. PLAN: INTRODUCTION - TIME FRAME

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: The pressures that Cape Breton families face are rising. Here is a list of the misery index. The unemployment rate in Cape Breton is double what it is in Halifax. The Island has lost 10 per cent of its population, more than 10,000 people in 10 years. The community has the highest rates of illnesses such as cancer and respiratory illnesses in Atlantic Canada and Cape Bretoners also have a shorter life expectancy than the rest of Canada. Yet Cape Breton is one of the most beautiful places in the world and Cape Bretoners are some of the hardest workers in this province. So, Mr. Speaker, my question to the Premier is, when are you going to introduce an economic development plan for Cape Breton?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, despite significant success in Cape Breton, the government is prepared to acknowledge there is much left to do. We are working effectively with ECBC; we are participants in the Cape Breton Growth Fund; we have contributed tremendous resources to infrastructure projects in the Cape Breton area. We are committing resources to improving the community college in industrial Cape Breton. We are doing many things; there is much, we acknowledge, left to be done.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, municipal leaders have been trying to bring the crisis in Cape Breton to the attention of this government but instead of working with these leaders the Premier remains combative. Twenty-two people have died in Cape Breton in the last 18 months in connection with drug abuse, yet the Premier closed the only residential addiction program on the Island and the province has yet to introduce a plan to deal with OxyContin

[Page 4094]

addictions. My question to the Premier is, the social and economic problems facing Cape Breton deserve your undivided attention, when will you present a comprehensive strategy to deal with these problems?

THE PREMIER: The government does acknowledge and certainly on many occasions during the current sitting the Minister of Health has acknowledged the tremendous problem with prescription drug abuse in Cape Breton, not to say, Mr. Speaker, that it is not a problem across our province, because it is. We are awaiting the recommendations of the task force and when those recommendations are in place the government will act.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, Cape Breton is battling high unemployment, low incomes, a health crisis, cuts to education and high tuition rates. The relationship between the local council and the province is so bad that the council had to go through a freedom of information process to access revenue and expenditure details that affect them. The Island should be a provincial asset, it is an international travel destination, so my question to the Premier is, when are you going to start working with Cape Breton instead of against it?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, we have an excellent working relationship with organizations in industrial Cape Breton that are positively promoting the Cape Breton image and working effectively to provide (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please. The honourable Premier has the floor.

THE PREMIER: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We will continue to work with organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, such as the local university, such as the local campus of the community college, with organizations such as ECBC and the Cape Breton Growth Fund. We are anxious to work with any group in Cape Breton that is anxious to work in a very positive, productive way.

[1:00 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

PREM. - GAS PRICES: REDUCTION - PROVIDE

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, today residents of Sackville were treated to self-serve gasoline at the bargain-basement price of 75 cents per litre, that's if they had the patience to fight the lineups and traffic that resulted. Ironically, gasoline was selling for 75 cents at all metro gas stations back in January and at the time, most people thought it was too high, and the Premier promised to bring forward a plan to lower prices. The Tory Government could have formed an all-Party committee four months ago and that same committee would be reporting back to the House today with solutions. That did not happen, four months have been wasted, and Nova Scotians continue to pay skyrocketing gas prices.

[Page 4095]

The time for study is over. Nova Scotians are demanding action now, not when the Summer driving season is over. My question to the Premier is, will the Premier stop the illusion that his government is actually doing something and reduce gasoline prices today?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, despite some objection from some MLAs in the House, the government has been very proactive, we brought forward legislation, we have arranged that this Summer a select committee of the House will seek the input of Nova Scotians on this very difficult problem. While I am disappointed that we don't have the legislative ability to immediately put into effect those recommendations, we will be coming back in the Fall and presumably will have to go through the exercise again, and that will be to bring forward legislation to implement the recommendations of the select committee.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, it was this same Premier who had no problem recalling the Legislature to take away the bargaining rights of nurses during the Summer, he should have no problem recalling the Legislature to provide Nova Scotians with immediate relief on gas, once that committee finally reports. To suggest that the delay of that bill is going to be a delay for Nova Scotians is irresponsible and his government certainly showed they had no problem recalling the Legislature back then. Nova Scotians are looking for relief now. Crude oil prices are something we cannot control but the Premier can certainly control taxation and he can certainly control the two cents a litre his government proposed on Nova Scotians two years ago, breaking his own campaign promise. Nova Scotians are puzzled as to why this government, with the support of the NDP, is interested in giving a subsidy to big oil companies but not a break for Nova Scotians.

MR. SPEAKER: Question, please.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: My question is, will the Premier take action today that will result in lower gas prices tomorrow instead of subsidizing big oil companies through property tax breaks?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, the question allows me to remind Nova Scotians and to remind members of the House how important the infrastructure is here in Nova Scotia, and how important it is that we not lose our last refinery. I was around when they dismantled the Gulf Refinery at the Strait of Canso, I was around here when they dismantled the Ultramar Refinery right across the harbour. I will not be around here to see that Imperial Oil Refinery dismantled.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, to suggest that giving a property tax break to Imperial Oil is the only means to assist that company to keep that refinery here is proof that this government is bankrupt of any ideas or solutions as to how to help economic growth here in this province. For the Premier to suggest that municipal taxpayers should bear the brunt of economic development in this province is proof that the Premier has given up on his own

[Page 4096]

economic development tools, by the fact that they have a broom closet now for an office of economic development.

Nova Scotians want a break on their gas prices. This Premier had no problem mailing out $155 cheques at election time, why now will he not give that relief. My question is, why won't the Premier . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, my question to the Premier is, why won't the Premier help today's families by simply lowering gas taxes and provide direct relief to Nova Scotians for the high gas prices they are paying now?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I can remind the member opposite and remind members of the House of something I reminded them of a few days ago in Question Period. We put our gas tax money on the roads, we use it to pave, to build new twinned highways, we use it to build bridges, unlike the federal government that simply keeps 90 per cent to 95 per cent of its fuel excise tax.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

HEALTH - HOME CARE CLIENTS: FEE HIKES - EXPLAIN

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, in April, home care fees went up by 25 per cent from $8 to $10 per hour. We are beginning to receive calls from home care clients who are considering reducing or discontinuing their services, because they cannot afford the extra costs. Most of these seniors have income just high enough that they are not exempt from home care fees but low enough that an extra $2 an hour is a major concern. My question to the Minister of Health is, why did he choose to increase revenue by hitting home care clients with fee hikes?

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, the honourable member, in referencing that, knows that those fees have not been adjusted for quite some period of time. We feel that, under the circumstances, they're appropriate. Nobody likes to increase fees, however, we want to continue to provide good, solid health care for the people of this province, and that's part of the plan.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, $2 an hour multiplied by 10 to 15 hours of service per week adds up quickly. The present system is especially hard on middle-income seniors who must pay up to $240 a month before the fee cap kicks in. That's on top of increased Pharmacare premiums and a new penalty of up to $50 for cancelling an appointment without 24 hours notice. I ask the Minister of Health, why is it that seniors in this province always seem to foot the biggest bill for health care services?

[Page 4097]

MR. MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, we, in this government, provide very good services to seniors. We have one of the most comprehensive Pharmacare Programs in the country. I can tell the honourable member that we chose to take action such as the ones that we have, rather than lay off workers. I understand the Government of Saskatchewan has laid off 250 nurses as part of their plan.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, home care is far less expensive than nursing home costs, and the comprehensive home care services are proven to help keep seniors healthy and in their own homes longer. If seniors are forced to cut back on home care services or eliminate home care entirely, the costs will be felt by acute care and by nursing home care. So my final question to the minister is, will he commit to reviewing the fee structure to ensure that lower- and middle-income seniors can afford home care services?

MR. MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, the thrust of this government's initiative with respect to health care is to ensure that our citizens are able to remain in their homes for as long as possible. That is what we're driving ourselves forward with respect to our planning. The planning is designed to do that, and we're going to be developing policies that will continue to enhance the capacity of individuals to remain in their homes. That is a priority of this government.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

NAT. RES. - GREEN SPACE: CROWN LANDS - PROTECT

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. The Halifax Regional Municipality is expected to grow by approximately 100,000 people over the next 25 years. This rapid growth will no doubt lead to new lands being developed for homes, apartments and condos, as it has for the last 15 years in my riding of Halifax Clayton Park. Now is the time for a plan to conserve green space within HRM for future generations. Can the Minister of Natural Resources please tell the House if his department has plans to protect and expand Crown lands in HRM before all of our green space is depleted?

HON. RICHARD HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, I'm not quite sure where the member is going, but I can tell you that my department is working with HRM to preserve the natural resources that we have in this province, like McNab's, Hemlock Ravine. We've been working with HRM and their Parks Department to preserve what we have now.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, as development continues, many residents of HRM are expressing concern for the remaining natural resources in their communities. A recent poll conducted by Corporate Research Associates found that 73 per cent of respondents in HRM were in favour of more protected areas on Crown lands. A large tract of Crown land exists in my riding in the Birch Cove Lakes-Blue Mountain area. Will the minister commit to ending

[Page 4098]

the practice of trading off parcels of Crown land in the Birch Cove Lakes-Blue Mountain area to developers, for land in other parts of Nova Scotia?

MR. HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, a week ago Wednesday evening I had the opportunity to speak to a group of people in the Sackville area. The member of the NDP and two members of our Party were at the event and we are trying to secure a piece of property out there to enhance the park areas in that community but I will also state that this government is not in the mode of selling Crown land. We are trying to enhance our land base in this province and protect land bases in this province.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, the current Minister of Community Services, in a letter dated May 25, 2001, described the Birch Cove Lakes-Blue Mountain area as a potential provincial park candidate, and I have a copy of that letter here to table today so I will leave that. Will the minister commit today to working toward the creation of a provincial park in the Birch Cove Lakes-Blue Mountain area?

MR. HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, absolutely, we will work with HRM and my good colleague here, the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations tells me that's in his riding and he would like to work with me also to enhance the area there and have more parkland.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants East.

NAT. RES. - NICTAUX RIVER:

CLEAR-CUTTING - APPROVAL EXPLAIN

MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I'm inspired by the honourable minister's comments to the previous questions. Yesterday, I hope you can remember, I raised the issue of the Department of Natural Resources' plan to allow Louisiana Pacific to cut in the Nictaux River area. The area is a spawning ground for salmon, a local recreation treasure and a tourist attraction. In 2002, the Municipality of Annapolis County sent a letter to this government pointing out that given the value of the area, council wanted the province to place the area under a development moratorium to prevent logging and road building. I will table that letter. My question to the Minister of Natural Resources is, why did you allow cutting in this area without adequate consultation when you knew there was so much opposition to that?

HON. RICHARD HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, through you to the honourable member, this came to my attention approximately a week and a half ago by the good member for Annapolis who asked me if I would look into the file. I indicated to staff to have a meeting with the concerned citizens of the area and go through the area that they are talking about. I have also made a statement very clear to this House and to all members that I would definitely meet with the warden for the county who is showing a concern and I have asked the member for Annapolis if he would like to accompany me at that meeting. (Interruptions)

[Page 4099]

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

MR. MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I do have some regard for the member for Annapolis but I'm not sure why he wants to hang with the government members. (Laughter) The Annapolis County Council sent this letter to the minister's department this week and I will table that. They say: Our municipality respectfully requested discussions about these lands but has not been given adequate opportunity for input. I assume it is not your department's intent to exclude or discount the municipality as a local voice of the community. The department is now implementing a management process that is contrary to local wishes, representations, values and stakeholders' best interests. My question to the minister is, the county has asked you to put a moratorium on all logging and road building in the area until local residents have been heard. Will you commit to do this?

[1:15 p.m.]

HON. RICHARD HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, through you to the member opposite, I'm sure the member for Annapolis wants results on that, that's why that member has consulted with this minister. That's why this minister is committed to that member and to the municipality and I will meet with those people before anything transpires.

MR. MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I don't think that was the question I asked. (Interruptions) Local businesses depend on the Nictaux River area to attract tourists to their area, businesses like the Falcourt Inn. The Annapolis County Council is just asking for some balance to be injected into the process and that the multiple uses and the sustainability of the area be considered. My question to the minister is, what will it take for you to make sure the concerns of local residents are addressed before you allow any cutting in this area?

MR. HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, again, I guess maybe the member is not hearing very clearly today. I have just stated that I am willing to meet with those people, that staff has already met with those people, and there's been a management plan in place for that piece of property for a number of years. There's been a management plan working with the company that has that under lease. We definitely will consult with the community.

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

ENVIRON. & LBR. - ALIANT STRIKE:

EMERG. SERV. - RESTORATION PLAN

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, my question will not be for the Minister of Natural Resources. My question is for the Minister of Environment and Labour. For a month now the area's largest telecommunications firm, Aliant, has been involved in a strike. The management has been working to maintain services for their clients, but it looks as though the work stoppage may be a little longer than initially anticipated. My question to

[Page 4100]

the minister is, does the minister have a contingency plan in place in the event of a disruption in service for the restoration, if necessary, of emergency services such as 911?

HON. KERRY MORASH: Mr. Speaker, as I'm sure the member opposite appreciates, that's a federally-regulated industry. However, we have been monitoring the situation and working with the partners in any way that we possibly can to look for a resolution and there are backup plans in place for emergency situations.

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for his answer. The workers as well as management and staff want to see a resolution to this strike as quickly as possible because it affects all four Atlantic Provinces. My question to the minister is, will the minister tell the House what communications he has had with his counterparts in the rest of Atlantic Canada to ensure that Nova Scotians will not be caught off guard if a problem were to arise from this situation at Aliant?

MR. MORASH: Mr. Speaker, I personally haven't had any discussions with my counterparts in the other provinces. I suspect that my staff has, but I will endeavour to look into that and report back to the member.

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker (Interruption) I'd like the answer today, just in case. Keeping an open line of communication with both management and staff is vital in resolving this work stoppage and it's critical to the services that could be affected for the people both today and in the future. My question to the minister is, will the minister apprise members of the House as to what communications he has had with the management at Aliant and the union involved with the work stoppage at Aliant and what the results of those communications were?

MR. MORASH: Mr. Speaker, I certainly will make the honourable member opposite aware of any actions or correspondence that we have had with those individuals and groups.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

NAT. RES. - CROWN LAND: DOWNED WOOD - REMOVAL

MS. MICHELE RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, I've been inspired too, I guess. My question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. Mr. and Mrs. Barbour are 87 years old and 75 years old. They live in Ketch Harbour. In the wake of Hurricane Juan they spent nearly $3,000 having downed trees cleared from their property. They know the importance of having a firebreak around their house. The trouble is, the land beside them belongs to the province and the trees there haven't been removed yet. Summer is approaching and the Barbours are worried about forest fire. My question to the Minister of Natural Resources is, what deadlines do you have for removing downed wood from Crown lands in HRM?

[Page 4101]

HON. RICHARD HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, I'm not aware of the situation that the member is relating to today, but I would take that under advisement and I will get back to the member.

MS. RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, on January 29th, Mr. Barbour wrote to HRM and pointed out the danger of fire - I'll table that letter - in the coming Summer, which is now here. When I contacted the Halifax Regional Fire Department, I was told that downed trees were on provincial land and not their problem. A representative from the Department of Natural Resources told me that they were waiting to hear from the federal government about disaster assistance. Apparently, they're still waiting. Fire doesn't wait to find out who's taking care of the bills, why is the government waiting?

MR. HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, through you to the honourable member, that is a true statement. We still are waiting for the federal government. We've been dealing with the federal government on our parks on the hurricane damage that we had here in the province. But if there is an urgency for that one file, you definitely get that to me and I'll see that staff deals with that immediately.

MS. RAYMOND: There's certainly urgency on this particular file, because the Barbours are senior citizens and they would remove the trees themselves probably if they could afford to and were young and strong enough to, but that's not the case and there have been more than 35 fires already. Everywhere that there's Crown land adjoining private homes, within a firebreak distance, there's a real danger. My question is, will you commit to creating those firebreaks by removing dead trees on Crown lands adjoining private homes within the firebreak zone?

MR. HURLBURT: Mr. Speaker, through you to the honourable member, I will commit here today that we are doing everything in our power with all the manpower that we have in our office to eliminate the potential fire hazards that we have to adjacent property owners.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.

AN HON. MEMBER: He's got 29 minutes. (Laughter)

TPW - ALDER BUSHES: TRIMMING - RESPONSIBILITY

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: I'm taking my time. Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Transportation and Public Works. Alder bushes are a common site along the rural roads of Nova Scotia. They are a menace to safety along our highways and back roads. Recently, I've been receiving phone calls at my constituency office from concerned citizens. My constituents have told me that the alder bushes need to be removed from the ditches. They are calling the Department of Transportation and Public Works and the local offices are

[Page 4102]

telling them to cut them down themselves, because they have no money or resources to deal with it.

Mr. Speaker, can the minister tell this House, is the trimming or removal of alder bushes a Department of Transportation and Public Works' responsibility or do the people have to do it on their own?

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, removing alder bushes from ditches is certainly a departmental responsibility. I don't know what the circumstances are in this particular case, however, if the department did respond in the fashion that the honourable member has suggested, I'm a little disappointed with that response.

MR. THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, they claim they have no money in their budget to do this job. The alder bushes are a danger to the people as they pull out of their driveways, because they hamper visibility of oncoming traffic. Some people have taken matters into their own hands and are happy to cut these alders themselves. My question to the minister is, is the Department of Transportation and Public Works going to deal with the growing problem and when?

MR. RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I'd suggest that alder bushes are certainly a growing problem. (Laughter) All areas of the province are allocated funding under the RIM program, and a portion of the RIM program is devoted to cutting alder bushes and other scrub along the sides of the roads.

MR. THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, we are dealing with a safety problem here. Alders are a fast-growing resilient bush, and we know it is expensive to keep these bushes cut down with traditional methods that we've used over the past years. It has been said that cutting alders in late August or early September and repeating this the next year is the best way to remove them for good. With today's expertise and technology, there must be a solution. Can the minister tell this House, is the government looking for other technologies to deal with what is essentially a safety problem?

MR. RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, yes, we have a gigantic machine, actually, that chops down alder bushes. Quite honestly, I believe we have the best expertise in removing those kinds of obstructions to visibility along highways anywhere in the Atlantic Provinces, because out at Miller Lake they developed the machine about 10 or 15 years ago, which they hook onto the end of an excavator. It is very efficient.

[Page 4103]

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

WCB - SUPREME COURT DECISION:

IMPLEMENTATION - DELAY EXPLAIN

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, on October 3rd of last year the Supreme Court found Section 10 of the Workers' Compensation Act to be unconstitutional. At that point the court advised this government that it had six months to get its act together and get rid of the offending clauses, yet this government has treated that with much contempt and very little regard. Now I mentioned earlier in this House today the passing of one of the tireless workers on behalf of injured workers in this province, Mr. Lauchie MacLeod. Lauchie will not live to see those reforms. So I'm going to ask the minister, why are you not listening to the stakeholders at the WCB, instead of the CEO and the chairman of the board?

HON. KERRY MORASH: Mr. Speaker, with regard to the Workers' Compensation Act and the chronic pain issue, we made a statement some time ago that we are looking at spending $168 million to clean up the backlog. We are listening to the Supreme Court, we want to ensure that we treat people fairly, and what we're doing is looking at a path forward that will take care of these injured workers to the best of our ability under the law.

MR. CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, that's less than a path forward, it's obstructions. It's obstruction for injured workers throughout this province. Bill No. 20 is not going to be dealt with in this House today or any time in the near future. What we have in this province is other discrimination being allowed to be put forward by the board. There are injured workers at the New Waterford Consolidated Hospital who are suffering from environmental diseases, but the board is blocking them and will not allow them to go forward on an individual basis. Mr. Minister, why are you allowing this to happen?

MR. MORASH: Mr. Speaker, my understanding is that we're waiting for additional information to be gathered and additional reports to come in to the Workers' Compensation Board so that those claims can be assessed.

MR. CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, this is the same problem that got that place in the mess it's in today, by discriminating against workers in a block, yet this minister doesn't care. These people deserve to have their case heard, and, as we very well know in this province, justice delayed is justice denied. When will the workers at the New Waterford Consolidated Hospital get their justice, Mr. Minister?

MR. MORASH: Mr. Speaker, I think it's very unfortunate that the member opposite says I don't care because I certainly do. I've been involved with this (Interruptions) And this is something that's important to all members and to all people who are associated with this circumstance. We're doing what we can to ensure that the information gets to the Workers' Compensation Board and that these claims get processed.

[Page 4104]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

COM. SERV. - FOOD SECURITY REPT.:

RECOMMENDATIONS - IMPLEMENT

MS. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Community Services. In March of this year a study was released on food security in Nova Scotia. Not surprisingly, it found that many Nova Scotians, including those on social assistance and the working poor, are experiencing food insecurity. Key recommendations of this study include that the Department of Community Services index food and shelter assistance rates to encourage healthier lifestyles and adequate food supply for these families. My question to the Minister of Community Services is, what action will your department be taking on this report's recommendations?

[1:30 p.m.]

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for her question. I also thank her for her questions during the estimates and those from the other members of the Opposition. We increased the basic personal allowance this year effective October 1st by $4.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, the study used the nutritional food basket measure which is a no-frills budget that provides basic healthy nutrition. The nutritional food basket for a family of four in Nova Scotia would be $572.70 a month. The allowance for a family of four on Employment Support and Income Assistance is considerably less, including the $4 that might start in the Fall and it must also cover utilities, clothing and other needs. My question to the minister is, when will he admit that Community Services' policies are contributing to the high number of families in this province experiencing food insecurity?

MR. MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for her question. Actually the component in the basic personal allowance, which is devoted for food security, indeed, that's what we use to determine the amount of the increase. So that's exactly what we used to come up with that number that's going into effect on October 1st.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, this government boasts about finally eliminating the clawback of the National Child Tax Benefit Supplement a couple of years ago. What it doesn't advertise is that it cut the personal needs budget for children at the same time - leaving families worse off. So I ask the minister, when will his department finally take steps to ensure that families on assistance and the working poor have enough nutritious food to eat?

MR. MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for pointing out that we were one of the provinces that stopped this practice and previously what happened is that, what's now the National Child Benefit, would get clawed back if the family was on

[Page 4105]

community services. That no longer happens in this province and the $250-odd a month for food and clothing for those children goes directly to the families. There's no clawback and any increases in the National Child Benefit accrue to the families regardless of whether they're on community services or not.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

WCB - SUPREME COURT DECISION:

CONSULTATIONS - DETAILS

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister responsible for the Workers' Compensation Act. It is incumbent upon this government to address a decision on chronic pain made by the Supreme Court of Canada in a full and comprehensive manner and while the concerns of the sufferers are, of course, extremely important, the minister must not forget his obligation to employers. I would like to ask the minister, what consultations, if any, has he held with the members of the business community in developing his response to the Supreme Court decision?

HON. KERRY MORASH: Mr. Speaker, I'm very pleased to say that there have been numerous consultation processes that have taken place with injured workers, with employees, with employer groups. Those consultations have been held through the Workers' Compensation Board, they've been held through Environment and Labour, and they have been held as well with other groups that have reported back to ensure that we get a lot of information in as we work through the decision-making process.

MR. COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I cannot emphasize strongly enough how important it is that the minister address this issue fair and equitably. It is a balancing act. On one hand the minister has the concerns of the chronic pain sufferers to consider and, on the other hand, the negative financial impact upon their employers will have a ripple effect and could extend across the entire workforce, reducing competitiveness which will probably result in job losses. I'd like to ask the minister, what has been the reaction of the business community to his proposed resolution of this matter?

MR. MORASH: Mr. Speaker, I certainly acknowledge that it is a balancing act. It's something that the board of directors of the Workers' Compensation Board has looked at, it is something that we have to be fair to injured workers, and we also have to appreciate that we have to have remuneration for the Workers' Compensation Board, and payments that go to Workers' Compensation have to be fair as well to keep our businesses competitive.

MR. COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, let's be very clear that the costs of implementing the workers proposed response to the Supreme Court decision could cause great concern. I have a letter here, which I will table, that was written to the vice-president of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters association expressing this legal opinion, expressing grave

[Page 4106]

concern over the possibility of another court challenge. Another court challenge. They point to four separate things: Retention of Section 10(E): Permanent Medical Impairment of 3 % & 6 %; No Apportion of Benefits for Chronic Pain; and Retroactivity of New Regulations. If this goes back to court again, it's going to have a very serious impact on the businesses of Nova Scotia. Therefore, I would ask the minister, will the minister provide a guarantee to this House and to all Nova Scotians that we'll consult with all stakeholders . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. There's too much noise in the Chamber. The honourable member on his question, please.

MR. COLWELL: Will the minister provide a guarantee to this House and to all Nova Scotians he will consult with the shareholders, particularly the employers, to find a reasonable solution that addresses concerns and will eliminate further court cases?

MR. MORASH: Mr. Speaker, it is certainly my intention and everybody involved with this process that we will be consulting and we will ensure that we discuss with stakeholders more in the future than we have in the past, and we will continue in that vein. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.

INS. - MIN.: NOVA SCOTIANS - PROTECT

MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, my questions are for the Minister responsible for the Insurance Act. George Patterson lives in Halifax Fairview and he is peeved. His auto insurance policy is with Meloche Monnex - that's one of the insurers who drove a truck through the Liberal-Tory insurance law by taking the 20 per cent off a high fictional rate rather than the rate that Mr. Patterson had actually paid the year before. But instead of standing up for Mr. Patterson, the minister changed the regulations to legalize the insurance company's nonsense. My question to the minister is, why, when faced with a choice of standing up for large, very profitable national insurance companies or standing up for Nova Scotians like George Patterson, did the minister pick the insurance companies?

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, there's no doubt that the New Democratic Party is a very hard sell. They just completely fail to understand what has gone on with regard to auto insurance in this province over the past 12 months. Today - and I'll say this again - please, please (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please. The honourable Deputy Premier has the floor.

MR. RUSSELL: Unfortunately, we might not be in here next week to answer further questions, so I'd like to advise the honourable members that as a matter of fact I just received a bulletin here that shows that, over the past 12 months, insurance premiums in Nova Scotia

[Page 4107]

have decreased by 10.6 per cent; whereas in Manitoba they've gone up by 3.9 per cent, in Saskatchewan by 1.4 per cent, in Quebec by 1.9 per cent . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member for Halifax Fairview on your first supplementary.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I see we're ending the session on the same, irrelevant nonsense that the minister always gives to us. George Patterson discovered something even more disturbing than the perfidy of his government. After protesting to Meloche Monnex and trying to enlist the support of the Superintendent of Insurance, and after months and months of waiting, Mr. Patterson was advised that Meloche Monnex would give him his rebate but only because he had complained and only because he hadn't given up. My question to the minister is, when will the minister start taking the side of Nova Scotia drivers and force Meloche Monnex and other like-minded companies to give the rebate to all drivers and not just to the ones who complain?

MR. RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I forget the actual numbers, but it's in excess of 300,000 Nova Scotians who have received rebates, totalling $55 million since last November 1st. At least the gentleman that the honourable member refers to now has the opportunity to complain to somebody and get his rebate, heretofore and in the provinces that have public insurance, you don't have that ability.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, all I'll say about that is that's not true, and the minister either should know it, does know it and he's saying it anyway, or he just doesn't have his facts straight. The minister likes to talk about the $55 million Nova Scotia drivers have gotten back, but I want the Liberals and the Tories to remember where that money is coming from, it's not coming from the insurance companies. It is coming from the pockets of injured Nova Scotians. The Liberal-Tory insurance law implements a temporary rebate in exchange for a permanent slashing of injury benefits, and that's where the money is coming from. My question to the minister . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please.

The honourable member for Halifax Fairview on his final supplementary.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I don't want that crowd or that crowd ever . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please.

The honourable member for Halifax Fairview on his final supplementary.

MR. STEELE: When will the Liberals and the Tories join the New Democratic Party and fight for a better insurance deal for Nova Scotia families?

[Page 4108]

MR. RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, there's not too many people who want to join the New Democratic Party, I can assure you of that. (Interruptions) In fact, our membership in the Progressive Conservative Party has been moving ahead rather well. (Interruptions)

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

HEALTH - NEW WATERFORD CONS. HOSP.:

WORKERS - HEALTH PROBLEMS

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, my question today is for the Minister of Health. As much as the minister would like this issue to disappear, there are workers at the New Waterford Consolidated Hospital who are not getting any better. High levels of lead and mercury have robbed these individuals of their working lives and, irrespective of whether or not there is disagreement as to how these workers have acquired these high levels, the fact of the matter is they are still sick. My question to the minister is, when is the minister going to admit that there's a serious health problem with the workers from the New Waterford Consolidated Hospital and pay for much-needed health care treatment?

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, because we recognize that there is a problem there, a very serious problem, we have, in fact, had Dr. Haines in very recently. I'm pleased to say that a number of the affected workers have met with him. We have some interim reports from Dr. Haines, but we're anticipating a more complete report from him in the very near future.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, meeting is not paying for the health costs that are necessary. These residents, like every other Nova Scotian, deserve to have their health care paid for. When an individual arrives at a hospital or a doctor's office with an illness, no one questions how they got sick, they just receive treatment. The New Waterford Consolidated Hospital workers deserve the same treatment from their own health care system. My first supplementary to the minister is, given that we live in a province and a country where health care treatment is covered, could the minister please explain why, to date, he has refused to cover the health care costs of the New Waterford Consolidated Hospital workers?

MR. MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, one of the preliminary reports that we have from Dr. Haines is that he does not believe that there is an element - it is not related to metal toxicity. That's a preliminary part of his report, and obviously we are awaiting the more complete report which we expect to get in the near future.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, what is not at issue here is the fact that these workers are sick. I always assumed, like all Nova Scotians, that if you're sick in this province and need treatment that that treatment was available for you.

[Page 4109]

[1:45 p.m.]

Well, Mr. Speaker, the treatment, it doesn't make any difference why the situation occurred as far as I'm concerned, it makes a difference that they can't get their health treatment paid for in this province - in a province that's supposed to provide health care to all its citizens. We know these people are sick, and some will suggest, are sick because of their employment in the New Waterford Hospital, that's fine, but knowing that they're sick, why won't this government pay for their health care costs in Nova Scotia?

MR. MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, we indeed are paying costs related to those costs that have been recommended by physicians in the area. As I indicated, Dr. Haines has already in his preliminary report suggested that metal toxicity is not one of the issues at stake here.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

TPW - TENDERING: MINORITY GROUPS - EXCLUSION EXPLAIN

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, to the Minister of Transportation and Public Works, last month we learned that Black contractors had been virtually shut out of working on a $2.9 million North Preston Community Centre. No Affirmative Action Program was in place to ensure that construction dollars stayed in that community. The Black Construction Association of Nova Scotia says this is typical of the government - very few tenders ever make it to companies owned by members of visible minorities. So I wonder if the minister will tell us why do minority groups continue to be virtually shut out of the provincial tendering process in this province?

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: The question was for me, I presume, Mr. Speaker. The tendering process in this province is transparent and if the honourable member knows of any companies that are having that kind of difficulty, I would certainly like to be made aware of them.

MR. EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, the struggle of marginalized groups to find a place in the economy of the province is serious. The government does not always send the right signals. We remember that the former Liberal Premier made headlines in 1998 when he made his comments about Black and Aboriginal students at Dalhousie Law School. Little has changed for equity seeking groups in this province since then. A clause permitting affirmative action regulations exists in the Government Purchasing Act, but to date no regulations have ever been produced. So I'm asking the minister, why has your government never introduced affirmative action guidelines into the tendering process?

MR. RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I haven't an answer for that question but, however, I will certainly get one and respond to the honourable member.

[Page 4110]

MR. EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I will inform the minister and the members of this House that other jurisdictions have had such guidelines in place for several years to ensure that all contractors exercise fair and equitable hiring practices and that the doors are opened to business owned and operated by members of equity seeking groups. My final question will actually be to the Premier, when will the Premier demonstrate leadership in this area and put forward affirmative action regulations for the provincial tendering process?

THE PREMIER: I refer that to the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, with respect to the question asked by the member opposite, first of all, I want to point out that the project that he was speaking about was actually tendered by the Halifax Regional Municipality. On that project there were several local subcontractors from the area, including electrical contractors, trucking contractors, labourers, as well as security guards, and a Black-owned business provided the sub-flooring contract, but with respect to the question that he asked, it's part of our work plan with the Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs and we will be bringing forward in the near future a recommendation to government with respect to that.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Glace Bay.

HEALTH - DHA: FUNDING FORMULA - STATUS

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, this could be one of the last questions this session from the only Official Opposition Party in this House. (Interruptions) My question is for the Minister of Health. As the minister is aware, the Minister of Education recently announced a process to develop a funding formula for school boards, and this process will involve school boards and public education partners and it will ensure that a formula is developed that is fair, transparent and meets the unique needs of communities. My question for the minister is, could the Minister of Health update us as to the status of a funding formula for district health authorities?

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, I've been getting some help here and it's been suggested that we have increased the formula by 7 per cent per annum, but that's not the real question the honourable member asked. I can say that the question about the funding formula is something that we have discussed with the district health authorities as I met with them, and we are quite interested in the initiative taken by the Minister of Education with respect to school boards and we will be following that very closely as well as carrying on discussions with the DHAs.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, this government promised district health authorities in a press release in February 2002, that their equitable funding formula was in the works, and they reinforced that as a priority in their business plan in 2002. Then we

[Page 4111]

heard absolutely nothing. Let me ask the minister, could the minister please explain why his department has been silent since 2002 with regard to the development of a funding formula for DHAs?

MR. MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, we have been far from silent. Some of the things that we have done, the honourable member doesn't want to hear, but we did, in fact, establish 7 per cent guaranteed funding to the DHAs. That's the first step that we took in order to ensure that there is fair and equitable funding for the DHAs.

Secondly, Mr. Speaker, we have been involved with value for money assessments with two of the DHAs. There's been the corporate Sanchez report for the capital district. That is providing us with very useful information as we move forward with respect to the issue of fair and equitable funding.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, I'm sure the minister would agree that a funding formula would recognize the distinct needs and challenges that are currently being experienced by some of the district health authorities and the recent value for money assessment done for Colchester and Pictou County DHAs, also recommended that there be a funding formula. My final question for the minister is, could the minister please explain when he will finally get around to beginning that process for the development of a district health authority funding formula?

MR. MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, as I've indicated in my answer to the previous supplementary question, the process is underway. I'm very hopeful that we will, in fact, deal with that far sooner than we'll likely get the Prime Minister's answer to our request for a fair and equitable funding formula for the provinces of Canada with respect to health care. It's a good question and we're working toward a . . .

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

HEALTH PROM. - SMOKE-FREE PLACES LEG.:

STRATEGY - INCLUDE

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, I guess they were wrong on both occasions. It's not the last question and we are the Official Opposition. I applaud the increase. My question is to the Minister of Health Promotion. I applaud the increase in access to nicotine replacement for low-income families, but why isn't more attention being paid to strengthening and enforcing the Smoke-free Places Act. My question to the Minister of Health Promotion is, why isn't stronger smoke-free place legislation and resources for enforcement a part of your strategy? (Interruptions)

[Page 4112]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

HON. RODNEY MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, the fact is they're both wrong and that's why they're on that side of the House. I'll take the opportunity to answer the member's question. I believe there's still time. With respect to the inspections happening there, they are happening across the province. We have a number of inspectors, I believe it's close to 80, the number in total. We'll continue to do those inspections, provide the appropriate warnings, as well as take the appropriate measures when required.

MR. GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, with no designated tobacco inspectors (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Nova has the floor.

MR. GOSSE: Mr. Speakers, with no designated tobacco inspectors for this Act, small wonder. My question to the minister is, will he back up the Smoke-free Places Act with inspectors and vigorous advertising of the toll-free complaint line?

MR. RODNEY MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, the fact of the matter is the member is wrong. There are inspectors with respect to looking at this issue. I believe the total is in the 70s -78 in total. But I'll provide the member with that information.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The time allotted for the Oral Question Period has expired.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

[1:56 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Russell MacKinnon in the Chair.]

[Page 4113]

[2:29 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Murray Scott, resumed 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 bills:

Bill No. 58 - Mechanics' Lien Act.

Bill No. 62 - Financial Measures (2004) Act.

Bill No. 74 - Oil Refineries and L.N.G. Plants Municipal Taxation Act.

and the chairman has been instructed to recommend these bills to the favorable consideration of the House, each without amendment.

MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that these bills be read for a third time on a future day.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, I would ask the consent of the House to move those bills onto the order paper for third reading later this afternoon.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 26.

Bill No. 26 - Health Protection Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

[Page 4114]

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, I move that this bill be now read a third time.

I want to express my appreciation to all members of the House for the attention that they have paid to this bill and for their considered amendments. I also, again, want to express my appreciation and I'm sure the appreciation of the entire membership of the House, to the staff of the Department of Health who have worked on this bill and also to the staffs of the various caucuses who worked with them in bringing forward the amendments that were considered and accepted by the House. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, I wanted to speak for a couple of minutes on the record on third reading, because this is a bill that passed second reading in the Fall session of 2003, went to the Committee on Law Amendments over the Winter. We had a hearing with submissions representations made before the House returned. There were concerns about this legislation and I think it's important to put on the record that this government took an opportunity once they heard from the Nurse's Union of Nova Scotia, heard from the NSGEU, heard from the HIV/Aids advocacy group, I don't remember the specific name of it. I think there were other written submissions. Based on that, there were concerns that our caucus had. We were worried about the balance in this legislation between individual rights and the sort of community rights whenever you have a particular public health hazard, it could be SARS, it could be tuberculosis.

[2:30 p.m.]

There were some concerns in this legislation that we particularly wanted addressed. There were seven amendments of ours at the Law Amendments Committee that were passed, and we're glad to see those. Most of them reflected the need to balance between individual rights and the rights of a community to protect itself in a public health hazard. One of the ones, particularly, that was of note, that we thought was important to change, was that originally, the hearing that was put forward for someone who was refusing to comply with an order was to be private unless it was asked to be public, and that goes against pretty well every constitutional and rule of law consideration and natural justice consideration in this country, and is probably a violation of the Charter. We were glad to see that changed and the onus reversed, so that it's a public hearing unless someone specifically asks for a private hearing. I think that's much more in conformity with our normal natural justice processes in this province and in this country.

We also tried to ensure that there is some planning going on between public health, between the chief medical officer of this province and Emergency Measures, because in this day and age, where it's as likely to have a state of emergency in this province as a result of a medical emergency, as we are of a physical or a natural disaster, and we're glad to see that

[Page 4115]

that coordination will be done over the years. Based on that, we're prepared to support this legislation now.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I will just rise for a few minutes just to say a few words on Bill No. 26. Bill No. 26 is an important piece of legislation, and it's a bit of a preventative type of legislation to prepare the province in case we do have a serious health issue that does strike our province, God willing that won't be the case but it's best that we be prepared, and we learn the experiences of other jurisdictions that were unfortunately caught a bit off-guard by unfortunate events.

Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity, certainly to commend my colleague, the member for Glace Bay, our Health Critic, who worked closely, along with our staff, with the Minister of Health's staff on addressing some of the concerns with this bill. I think the amendments brought forward by the Liberal caucus are recognized by the Minister of Health as good amendments. One I remember was dealing with a communications strategy so it's clear how any public emergencies would be communicated to all Nova Scotians. There was an issue about an annual report being provided and, also, I believe the other one was to provide a report following any sort of public health outbreak here in this province.

I think this bill is an example of where all three Opposition Parties have played a role in making the bill stronger. I think this is one that shows Nova Scotians that minority government is working well. I think it's an opportunity, also, when one looks at some of the people involved behind the scenes, I'm not aware of all of the individuals in the Minister of Health's office who may have been involved with this, but I can certainly tell you that Duff Montgomery is an individual who I believe has certainly been a stellar person for the Opposition to work with, whether it be on legislation, whether it be on issues. I think Duff has done a good job, and I think it's not often enough that we recognize some of the people behind the scenes who do some good work for this province, those who aren't on the front lines. If I were to point out some of the political operatives that the government has on their side, I would say that Duff Montgomery would certainly be one of the better ones who has certainly worked well with us.(Applause)

You know it's the last day of the session, but in all seriousness, even when he was with the Minister of Education when he was in Health, certainly he was very helpful to members on this side of the House and that's certainly appreciated. I want to thank the minister because our amendments did come in to the Committee of Whole House on Bills, they're usually done at the Law Amendments Committee, but the minister certainly did allow them to go forward at Committee of the Whole House on Bills. I think at the end of the day it has made Bill No. 26 a stronger bill and one that, hopefully, addresses the concerns of Nova Scotians in the event of a public health crisis here in this province. So with that, I'm pleased to see the bill move forward to third reading.

[Page 4116]

MR. SPEAKER: If I recognize the honourable minister it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Health.

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to close the debate. I thank the members opposite for their comments and I can say that the other day when I was introducing staff, I looked up and saw that Duff had left the gallery and he left because he didn't want me to single him out. I thank the honourable member for Richmond for doing that. He is certainly a very helpful individual and was in this particular process.

Mr. Speaker, I'm very pleased to conclude the debate. This is probably the most significant piece of legislation that I've had the responsibility of dealing with since I've been a Minister of the Crown and I'm glad to see it proceeding to the final stage today.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 26. Is the House ready for the question? Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 40.

Bill No. 40 - Assessment Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I move that this bill be now read for a third time.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

MS. MICHELE RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, I welcome the opportunity to speak to this legislation. It's central, it affects absolutely everybody who is a property owner in this province. As I've said over and over again, every square inch of the province is, in fact, included within a municipality and therefore subject to property assessment. There was simply no time to delay and I'm very pleased that through the motions that have been moved through the Law Amendments Committee, we have, in essence, developed what, in some

[Page 4117]

circumstances, might even be described as a three-year pilot project capping property assessments for those who may be placed under a severe hardship by rapidly escalating property values in their neighbourhood. With this three year sunset clause, there's provision for a review of the action of the legislation after two years.

The other very important amendment which has been added is that there is, in fact, provision for an annual percentage to be prescribed before the end of the year. So with those amendments, I'm very pleased to see that this bill is brought forward.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Victoria-The Lakes.

MR. GERALD SAMPSON: Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on Bill No. 40 and to point out the serious problems connected with Bill No. 40. It's poorly thought out. Everyone can agree that something needs to be done to help property owners of modest income with rising assessments and rising property taxes. But the assessments and the property taxes have doubled and tripled in some cases and in some cases we have people who are in jeopardy of losing their homes. It has come to my attention from the phone calls that I've received, it's not just the low-income people, but some people with modest and relatively high incomes.

One gentleman in Chester told me that his taxes were $500 a year only four years ago. They've gotten to the point where he was paying $600 a month in taxes, next year he anticipates they will go to $800 a month. He could afford the $600 but he definitely can't afford the $800. So it's not only affecting low-income earners, Mr. Speaker, it's affecting high-income earners also.

Municipalities already have the tools to address the situation. We tried three or four years ago, Lunenburg, Chester and Victoria, to resolve this with the province, with no results. Now, the province is coming in and what they're doing with Bill No. 40, Mr. Speaker, is overkill. I will cite some of the reasons why. It creates a tax break for the rich where it's not needed. Municipalities will lose income. The cost to administrate the assessment program will go higher and there's no guarantee property owners will pay less tax because the revenue is still needed and taxes have to be increased to continue municipal services. I'll quote HRM CEO George McLellan when he said it's like trying to shoot a squirrel with an elephant gun. The one-size approach does not fit all in any and all cases.

In addition, there's no guarantee a person on a low income level, unable to pay their rising taxes, will not lose their house. No Nova Scotian should be forced from their home due to high assessment increases and high taxes that result. Bill No. 40 does nothing to prevent this. The NDP amendment, I shouldn't be derogatory, I suppose, but somebody who read it said to me, they either found that amendment in a box of corn flakes or in a bag of potato chips. The UNSM interpretation of that amendment says that the only thing that is of any positive value in it is the fact that in 2007, it does say they should have a review. But, a

[Page 4118]

review just means somebody could look at it and say, yes, we reviewed it, it's good. That's no guarantee and the capping coming along in the Fall - who knows what it is?

The issue is better dealt with at the municipal level. Solutions can be tailored that balance the interests of the municipality along with the property owner. Individual people caring for individuals. Section 69 and 70 of the Municipal Government Act already allow municipalities the power to do some things, but they have to create flexibility for the municipality to help all taxpayers, not just one group.

Bill No. 40, rich families can pass the tax down to their children and there's no means test. A means test would help out these people in the lower income bracket as well as the medium and high. If you have somebody with a good, reasonable high income and yet here's the taxes at $800 a month - that's almost atrocious to expect anybody to be able to afford that.

The parties against the bill - Halifax Regional Municipality; Cape Breton Regional Municipality; the UNSM; Mayor John Prall, chairman of the town caucus and also the Mayor of Berwick; the Halifax Chamber of Commerce; Robert Wry, Deputy Mayor of the Town of Wolfville; the Municipality of Kings; here's a lovely one, I have a letter here, John Leefe, Mayor of Queens, former Tory Cabinet Minister, totally against the bill; East Hants. Bill No. 40 is not the appropriate mechanism to fix these problems.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business, Leanne Hachey - we need a property tax policy for the province, not an assessment problem. Matt Durnford provided some alternatives - he came from Lunenburg and I think it was too little too late. He did offer some solutions but I think he should take his solutions and suggestions to the municipalities. I have to speak on behalf of Trudy Payne, who came to the committee from Chester to plead on behalf of her elderly Mom because of the extreme taxes were too high. Still, this bill will not address the problem as created.

What I would like to do is just give a few final notes that this is nothing but a purely political bill. The government has its eye on the prize, not on the people. Secondly, Charles Crosby, who is the incoming UNSM President and presently the Mayor of the Town of Yarmouth, said to me just this morning that the province has absolutely no business meddling in the affairs of the municipalities.

My friend, the MLA for Digby-Annapolis who I respect immensely, told me just in a conversation recently that he kind of likes everybody in this House, but he really feels sorry for the poor Tories on the other side and I said, why? He said because they have no common sense to suggest a bill, a 48-hour notice on gas tax, how could they ever expect to resolve the assessment issue? I equate the fact that to me it's like finding a gallon of vinegar out in the middle of the desert and you grab it and you drink it to quench your thirst. Now, it's either kill or cure and Bill No. 40 is the kill and absolutely not the cure.

[Page 4119]

George McLellan, again from HRM, the CAO, why don't we go back to having municipal administrators visit the municipalities? They did that when I was a councillor and they did it when I was warden and it was very effective, but that has come to an end. Jerry Ryan, CAO of CBRM, in his letter to me stated that CBRM and HRM have co-operated and they have addressed the issue, and they have a solution that they would like to bring forward to all municipalities for their approval. So there's co-operation on the municipal level.

[2:45 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, any government who would assess $140 million power plant like Wreck Cove at $645,000, when I look at the figures, guess what, they're over $100 million out. They don't hold any credibility in my books. Finally, this government has failed because they can't blame the assessment on the federal government, which they've blamed everything else on. They haven't done anything on the provincial level. So what they're doing is they're interfering on the municipal level to try to make some political brownie points before this House closes. On behalf of this Party and the municipalities, I say hands off, let the municipalities handle their own business. Thank you. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, finally something, it's not perfect, but finally something. I would like to give my compliments, first of all, to the member for Halifax Atlantic. As a rookie MLA involved with municipal affairs, she has taken the leadership, she has brought forward these amendments, she took them through the Law Amendments Committee's procedure, and they were accepted because of some of the good ideas that were forthcoming. So for a rookie member in a minority government, to get these amendments approved, I would like to pay my compliments to the member for Halifax Atlantic.

More importantly, though, I want to pay my compliments to Eric Creaser. Now, do members opposite and the members of the Third Party remember that name, Eric Creaser? Do you remember Eric Creaser, when we brought that issue to this House? Eric Creaser, that gentleman who lives down on the South Shore, whose assessment went from $82,000 to $380,000 overnight. I wonder if any members of the Third Party remember Eric Creaser? I wonder if any of them got a call from Eric Creaser. When you hear from Eric Creaser and his first reaction to you when he calls you is, young fella, something has to be done about this. When he called me young fella, right from the start, I like this man, he's making a lot of sense.

But having had the opportunity to go down and see that glorious piece of property and to see how Mr. Creaser wanted to pass it on, and now will have the opportunity to pass it on to his children, that inheritance clause, that alone makes this legislation worthy of my support. (Applause)

[Page 4120]

More importantly, I would like to bring to your attention, it must have been Halloween that night, and perhaps the member for Victoria-The Lakes had a mask on, because he said this to the media, Tories introduced bill to cap assessments. The member for Victoria-The Lakes said - and I may quote and I'm going to table this - Liberal Municipal Affairs Critic Gerald Sampson, a former warden of Victoria County, one of the real estate hot spots, called the legislation, "an excellent first step". (Interruptions)

Now, here we have it. An excellent first step, and when we look back on this legislation, at all the time we've taken and who we have been listening to, I want the members of the Third Party to know that I don't necessarily listen to the UNSM. I don't necessarily listen to the HRM or the CBRM. Who I listen to are the people on the government wharf, the people on the shoreline, the constituents of Timberlea-Prospect, that's who I listen to. (Interruptions)

I listen to the people who have been affected by this issue. I listen to the people in the coastal communities that I represent, the Slaunwhites, the Morashes, the Manuels, who have brought this case up on the doorstep. They brought it up when I first ran in the 1980s, they brought up in 1993, and when I got elected in 1998, they finally said, somebody is going to the Legislature to speak about these ridiculous assessments on coastal properties. Let me tell you, I've heard the member for Halifax Clayton Park in the Committee on Law Amendments say, "this is just a local matter." Just a local matter. Well you take the tour from the Shad Bay Bridge, through the South Shore, through Lunenburg to the Yarmouth County line, that is not just a local matter. That is a provincial matter that needs a provincial solution.

This is a doorstep, this is a government wharf issue, this is an issue that matters deeply to Nova Scotians. It matters because we want the opportunity to pass this land on to our children, and we want to have the opportunity to keep these coastal communities alive and well. We want them to be able to say to their children and grandchildren, this is Canada's Ocean Playground and you can afford to pass it on to your children. That's what this legislation says.

Now it's not perfect. Matt Durnford has passed on the fact that he will give the legislation a passing grade, and I will give the legislation a passing grade also because there is some leadership involved here, but in return, we are supposed to turn to the municipalities, the municipalities will take care of this issue. My question for the members of the Third Party, have the municipalities done anything with this issue in the last number of years, in the last decade? The answer is, no. They haven't done it.

So if you would like to talk to a man in the know when Laurence Mawhinney calls my constituency office, when the mayor of that town, Laurence Mawhinney calls me and he wants to meet and talk about the issue of assessments on the South Shore, I will listen to Laurence Mawhinney. He knows the case. He has been in Municipal Affairs, he has been the Mayor of Lunenburg for many long years. He knows the issue. That's the issue that we've

[Page 4121]

faced. We have gone halfway with the solution. Now, to throw the baby out with the bathwater is not how we work in minority government.

I will tell you, Mr. Minister, that I am proud that you've brought this legislation forward, and I can tell you it wasn't just yesterday when I stood in this House and that crowd, unfortunately, were over there. They were sitting over there that first time I stood in this place and I nervously asked my first question, and that question was on coastal assessments and access to coasts for Nova Scotians. The answer that I received was a dismissive reply - why are you so concerned about this issue, it's not a big deal, it's not a big issue at all. That minister, who is no longer in this House, was accepting advice from members on the front benches with him as they were telling him, oh don't worry about it, that's not an issue that affects Nova Scotians. Well let me tell you, I have had the opportunity to meet with Liberals who live in my constituency, Liberals who live in the constituency of the member for Chester-St. Margaret's, and they have said under no circumstances will they vote for any Liberal candidate unless this issue is voted for, that Bill No. 40 is passed through this House.

Members of the Third Party are saying, oh, one of Estabrooks' pieces of fiction. I would like to point out that the other day there was a candidate here from the riding of Chester-St. Margaret's who is representing the Liberal Party. I can tell you of conversations that I had with him, he's concerned. He knows, that man knows the issues. That man has lived in the community that he is intending to represent for a long time. He's a school teacher, he's an athletic coach, and does he stand a chance to get any votes when this Liberal caucus is going to vote against this piece of assessment legislation? He doesn't stand a chance, and guess what? He has the courage to tell us that at least. He has the courage to tell us. So you get yourself a candidate nominated in Timberlea-Prospect, you come to Terence Bay, you come to Dover and we'll talk about the assessment problem, and when the answer comes out that the Liberals did nothing about this issue, let me see how many votes you get in the coastal communities.

I look forward to this piece of legislation going forward. It has my support and it has the support of this caucus. Thank you. (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I'm not going to stand here and scream and holler and assume that everything is wonderful about this bill. I can guarantee you I'm not going to do that because everything isn't wonderful with this bill. This bill is going to be remembered by the taxpayers of this municipality and every municipality in this province, and I can tell you as a past regional councillor that I know what I'm talking about.

[Page 4122]

Taxes are raised in two ways - assessments and tax rates. So what's going to happen is the taxes in this municipality and every municipality in this province are going to go up regardless, without this bill or with this bill. This bill does nothing to address the problem that's being seen by people who have outrageous growth in their assessments. It's not going to tackle that problem. What's going to happen to all the members in this House who voted for this bill? When your next-door neighbour who has just bought a new home that's identical to the home you live in comes to you, guess what? They're going to pay more property taxes, and they're going to be extremely upset - and that is going to happen and that is going to happen very shortly.

I'm not going to waste the time of the House here today, because it appears that another deal has been made with the government and the NDP to support this bill to the detriment of the people in Nova Scotia, and the people in Nova Scotia want to remember this day and this bill. We have the member for Timberlea-Prospect screaming and hollering how great a deal this is, and I will remember this and so will the taxpayers in this province, the people in his community, the gentleman he quoted who's paying $600 a month, when in two years' time he's still paying a huge tax bill because the municipality has had to raise the tax rate to make up for the revenue that the assessment didn't do.

The bill had to be changed. It wasn't changed properly and it's not going to do the things that it has to do to protect the taxpayers in this municipality or anywhere in Nova Scotia. We have to have the courage to call a spade a spade and make sure that the people of this province know what's going on. I'm ashamed of this bill. I'm disappointed in the government, I'm disappointed in the NDP for supporting it, and the long-term effects of this are going to be very negative for the municipality, all the municipalities in this province - and if anyone thinks any differently, they haven't done their homework. Thank you.

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

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I hadn't contemplated on speaking on this particular piece of legislation until I was inspired by the member for Timberlea-Prospect. I have never seen such a void of logic in all my years in this Legislature. Never, ever, have I seen such a void of logic than when it comes to this particular piece of legislation. That honourable member, as well as all members who vote for this particular piece of legislation, know full well that this issue could have been satisfied very easily at the municipal level by adjusting the tax rate and not interfering with the assessment process, which was delegated under the Municipal Government Act to all municipalities in this province.

Mr. Speaker, since this Legislature has convened, we have seen continuous piecemeal legislation put forward for political purposes. This bill is nothing more than the Michael Baker bill - this is what the people of Nova Scotia are calling it.

[Page 4123]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please. The honourable member for Cape Breton West knows full well he's to refer to members in the House either by their portfolio or their constituency, not their names.

MR. MACKINNON: Well, this is true, Mr. Speaker. Now, I'm not sure how many Michael Bakers there are in the Province of Nova Scotia, but there's one that I do know of. However, I know there's also a Michael Baker who is the Minister of Justice, so I will refer to him as the Minister of Justice.

Mr. Speaker, there are three hot spots in the province with regard to this particular issue - Lunenburg, Queens and Victoria.

AN HON. MEMBER: And Enfield.

MR. MACKINNON: Well, Enfield, there are some sporadic situations there but, Mr. Speaker, we saw the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities come before the Law Amendments Committee, they spoke, universally opposed to it. The individual municipalities, for whatever reason, I do believe - I cannot prove it but I do believe - were encouraged by representatives within the government to come before the Law Amendments Committee and make this representation. All you have to do is look at the contents of their representation. Not once did they go back to the issue of tax rates and how that could have been adjusted, as what's being done in Halifax Regional Municipality, where they have three tax rates, urban, suburban and rural, much the same as what's taking place in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, urban, suburban and rural.

[3:00 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, yes, under the Municipal Government Act, there's also provision for the individual municipalities to provide exemptions, to provide special provisions. Why hasn't the government opted to take that route? Why, because it's not politically popular for the Minister of Justice to do nothing. Yes, the member for Timberlea-Prospect had some real genuine issues, issues that had to be addressed on some of the anomalies that were happening in the marketplace. But to go in and start carving up, on a piecemeal basis, the very principle for which the assessment process of this province is based is very dangerous. It's very dangerous to start carving up the fair market-value process. The Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations knows this. He knows this from being a municipal councillor. He knows this as a provincial politician. He knows what's happening.

We're seeing it with the other piece of legislation, Bill No. 74, that was just given further approbation. Mr. Speaker, again, a further imposition on the roles and the responsibilities of the municipalities that were laid out, co-operatively, between the Province of Nova Scotia and the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities. Why have none of the other

[Page 4124]

Tory backbenchers spoken on this issue? Why? Why have they not received representation from their individual constituencies? Why?

Because, Mr. Speaker, they are opposed to the bill. They are opposed to the bill because their municipal politicians are telling them so. Now if the municipal politicians are, as they all like to say they are, at the grassroots level and are plugged in at the front lines, why aren't they listening to them? Why are they ignoring the advice of all these people in Nova Scotia? Just to satisfy a political quest? Something that was put before this Legislature in the last session.

That's why, Mr. Speaker, I'm concerned. Yes, there will be some issues that will be addressed in this particular piece of legislation. There are some good things in it. But as a whole, there is more inequity than equity. I would submit, as my colleague, the member for Preston, has indicated, this will come back to haunt every politician that supports this legislation. It will come back to haunt the relationship between the provincial government, regardless of what political stripe, and the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities.

Mr. Speaker, it just behooves me as to what the logic is. The amount of input that has come from the Tory benches, whether it be from Pictou County or Colchester County or Halifax Regional Municipality or where have you - where is it? I have never seen such a void in representation on such complex and important issues that affect the lives of so many people. Yes, there are seniors in this province who need help, they need tax relief. Are they getting it? They're not getting it from this government. All you have to do is look at the way they were treated when they were looking for the property tax relief, because they were receiving the Old Age Security and the supplemental benefits, and the way that they were treated.

The Minister of Finance, when he was Minister of Community Services, knows full well - I made representation to his office for the way people were being treated. When they would call for an application for that tax relief did they get it? Not a bit. What they were getting was being put through the wringer, telling you over the phone whether you qualify or not. We are not going to send you an application even though you are legally entitled to it, we will determine whether you should get an application. Talk about things being off the rails, and then we see what is happening here today. Yes, it will be great for the Minister of Justice, yes, it may be great for the Minister of Environment and Labour, and yes, it may satisfy the concerns of the member for Timberlea-Prospect and one or two other members, but the big picture has been lost.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I have to say that I have never seen such a fragmented approach to public policy as I have witnessed in this session. (Interruptions) The voice of altruism is coming back. (Interruptions) Well, I'm not as bright as the member for Halifax Fairview, I would never pretend to be. I would never pretend to have all of the answers like the member for Halifax Fairview, I only wish I could be as good as the member for Halifax

[Page 4125]

Fairview on this issue or any other issue. But, please, this is what the people of Cape Breton West sent, so this is the representation I shall make (Interruptions) If the member for Halifax Fairview has a better solution, let him provide it. Mea culpa, mea culpa.

Mr. Speaker, on a serious note, I would serve notice to the minister and the government as to what is happening here. The eloquence and the passion that was put forth by the member for Timberlea-Prospect is only surpassed by the lack of logic that was put into this issue in trying to resolve some very serious and complex issues.

AN HON. MEMBER: It's better than nothing they say, Russell. It's better than nothing.

MR. MACKINNON: Well, sometimes not having anything is better than nothing.

With that, I will close my remarks. We are on record as to where we stand on this and I do believe the Premier - if anyone should know about it, with the issues of municipal government in his constituency, if anyone should be taking the bull by the horns and addressing this, it should be that member there, but that won't come. There will be a walk in the snow before that will come, you can be assured of that. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: If I recognize the honourable minister, it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Regulations.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, in closing debate I just want to add a few remarks. First of all I want to say that in no way should the hard work and the dedication of the people who work in my department be reflected by the debate here today. Our department assesses over 660,000 properties each and every year. The department's satisfaction rate with respect to the clients they receive has increased year over year - 74 per cent of the people who contact our office are satisfied overall with the work that we do. I think that speaks highly for the people who do this work.

The fact that every municipal unit, every one of the 55 municipal units has a property or many properties that exceed 25 per cent assessments year over year has nothing to do with the work that our assessment staff do. It often has to do with hot real estate markets that are beyond the control of the neighbours who happen to be put in a precarious position where their tax bills increase rapidly as a result of that market.

I want to comment briefly about some of the comments that were made during closing debate. Members talked about the fact that there should be, or needs to be, a means test and initially we brought this to the attention of the UNSM who then told us maybe that's not the right approach. When we put it in the piece of legislation they said maybe that wasn't the right

[Page 4126]

approach either, and I felt like I was being pushed and pulled at the same time, and I felt as if maybe there was an attempt to try to delay resolving this issue indefinitely.

After all, it is not necessarily about having the support of the UNSM or any of the municipalities, it's about having the support of the people who elect us, the taxpayers of Nova Scotia and the people who see this as an important issue.

The member for Victoria-The Lakes was absolutely correct when he said municipalities have the ability to fix this within the Municipal Government Act. That is true, but they failed to do that. In the absence of their leadership, we had to do something, we had to react. Our reaction is a piece of legislation that enabled a great deal of consultation, consultation in which I took the time to meet with and discuss with every single municipal unit this very issue. I will tell you this, municipal councillors across this province recognized the need for something to be done. We did something about it.

For nearly a decade, this has plagued many people around this province. Our government reacted and I'm very proud of the reaction that we had. I recognize that, not in every case, we'll be able to meet the needs and expectations of UNSM, but in this case what we did was we met the needs and the expectations of those Nova Scotians who saw their increase in assessment dramatic. I am pleased with the results of a bill that will protect those individuals, a bill that will see that Nova Scotians will be able to stay in their homes where they belong regardless if they live on coastal property or where they live in Nova Scotia in any of the 55 municipal units. I think this is a piece of legislation that reacts to the needs of Nova Scotians and I think it's a good piece of legislation. Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 40.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 40. Is the House ready for the question?

A recorded vote has been called for.

Are the Whips satisfied?

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[3:13 p.m.]

YEAS NAYS

Mr. Clarke Mr. Manning MacDonald

Mr. Morse Mr. Gaudet

Mr. Rodney MacDonald Mr. MacKinnon

Mr. Russell Ms. Whalen

[Page 4127]

Dr. Hamm Mr. Colwell

Mr. Baker Mr. Glavine

Mr. Muir Mr. Gerald Sampson

Mr. Christie Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay)

Mr. Fage Mr. Michel Samson

Mr. MacIsaac Mr. Graham

Ms. Bolivar-Getson Mr. Theriault

Mr. d'Entremont Mr. McNeil

Mr. Hurlburt

Mr. Barnet

Mr. Morash

Mr. Dooks

Mr. DeWolfe

Mr. Taylor

Mr. Chisholm

Mr. Langille

Mr. Hines

Mr. O'Donnell

Mr. Chataway

Mr. Parent

Ms. Massey

Mr. MacDonell

Mr. Corbett

Mr. Dexter

Mr. Deveaux

Mr. Steele

Ms. More

Mr. Parker

Ms. Raymond

Mr. Gosse

Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid)

Mr. Estabrooks

THE CLERK: For, 36. Against, 12.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 4128]

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 46

Bill No. 46 - Public Service Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture.

HON. RODNEY MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 46.

[3:15 p.m.]

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

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, first of all, I'm quite pleased that the Office of Health Promotion is going to provide some resources to young people in the communities that I represent and many of us here today. Also, the amendments that were done to the bill, some of the input by some of the organizations in the province was very important. The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia, the Canadian Cancer Society, were very valuable in their input in this bill and I'm very pleased that they had their say in that matter.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia has some of the country's poorest health statistics trends in inactivity and obesity among young people in our country. I'm hoping that this Office of Health Promotion and this bill will bring some kind of relief to the kids and many of the youth and get rid of the obesity and help them with a healthy, active lifestyle. Without the Health Promotion strategy to tackle growing demands on our health care system, our health care budget will continue to the breaking point. So the money spent now will be very valuable to us in the future. We are in a critical stage in the decision-making process for health and wellness in this province. The current rate of chronic illness, disabilities and death is just unacceptable. So I'm hoping this office is going to address some of these problems in this province, and many of the members here.

In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I like this bill. It's up to all of us, government, political Parties, health organizations, businesses and community leaders, to create and develop health promotion programs, policies and initiatives that will be necessary to ensure our communities in our province will be able to meet the health and economic challenges of the present and the future. The province will be strongest when we all act together with conviction on a health promotion plan that meets this challenge. The amendments recognize and represent the important long-term opportunities and expectations for all who contributed to this plan.

MR. SPEAKER: If I recognize the honourable Minister of Health Promotion, it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Health Promotion.

[Page 4129]

HON. RODNEY MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, through you to the member, I thank him for his comments as well as the other comment made earlier during the process of the bill. I agree with the member that the amendments make the bill stronger and I would like to thank the organizations who put forward their recommendations. With that I, again, move third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 46.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 48.

Bill No. 48 - Education Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise and move third reading of Bill No. 48, the Education Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I assure the members that I will not mention P3 schools. I will not mention previous Liberal Education Ministers because I seem to involve them in the debate when we talk about the importance to school access. In the growing community that I represent, I can tell you this piece of legislation has been well received. I've heard from seniors' groups. The acceptance of the amendment that was suggested is much appreciated by the gardening group on the Prospect Road, by the exercise group in Tantallon, that sort of open-mindedness in the use of schools will allow them to continue to be a focal point in our community.

[Page 4130]

I look forward to this piece of legislation going forward with the approval of the House. It's a good piece of legislation. It's a common sense piece of legislation and I look forward to working with this government and perhaps persuading those operators of those notorious P3 schools in being as fair as this piece of legislation is to the kids, the youth, the non-profit groups and the seniors of this province.

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

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, again, I hadn't contemplated on speaking, but I am inspired by the member for Timberlea-Prospect.

Mr. Speaker, there are a number of issues with this particular piece of legislation that I thought we should flag. First, with regard to the cost of this legislation to the individual school boards. The Halifax Regional School Board appeared before the Human Resources Committee not more than a month ago, and indicated that it would cost the Halifax Regional School Board an additional $200,000 out of its existing budget. That's just one school board out of eight in the province. So the question obviously that the minister has to consider when this legislation is approved is what is the sum total amount that it will cost the school boards, and will the province be providing the funding to offset the loss of revenue to the school board that, in effect, will, in some cases, come out of the classroom, so there will be even less money for going into the classroom.

The other issue, Mr. Speaker, is the fact that it has been acknowledged by stakeholders from various school boards and the Department of Education that for the minister and his government to achieve what they're attempting to achieve in this legislation, it doesn't have to come before this House. It can be done either through regulation or policy. There are certain policy agreements in place, for example the one with the Halifax Regional School Board. They were asked, in the latter part of 2003, to prepare a policy for the community use of schools. Whether that was done in anticipation that legislation would be introduced or would not be introduced didn't seem to be an issue when the Halifax Regional School Board officials appeared before the committee because they were of the opinion that it could be done by policy.

Again, being somewhat suspect in keeping with the member for Timberlea-Prospect's comments saying that he wasn't going to talk about P3 schools, well the mere fact that he mentioned it, he spoke about it. So we will put that on the table and we will include it in the equation. As much as they may want to gloss over it, Mr. Speaker, why didn't the NDP introduce an amendment to ensure that P3 schools were included in the process? What an absence by convenience. The whole idea was to get this issue back on the floor of the Legislature, for political purposes. There were more Machiavellian politics at this one housekeeping item than I've seen in a lot of pieces of legislation in this House. Quite simply, the minister's own staff is saying that this issue could have been addressed by regulation or

[Page 4131]

policy within the boards and the Department of Education. So what was the value of bringing it before this House?

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Clarification.

MR. MACKINNON: Clarification, the honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage says. Well, let's go with that. Why are those who are going to be using the schools now have to pay this liability insurance? What's the advantage? Are they going to be able to pay the premiums for $1 million liability insurance, personal liability insurance, to access these schools? These volunteer groups whether it be Boy Scouts or Beavers or Cubs or Girl Guides, or seniors, or 4-H Clubs. Are they going to be able to do that? I don't think so. I don't think they will at all. Again, absence by convenience. We seem to be overlooking this. It's nice you know, we have this motherhood and apple pie come before the House to make it look like they're doing a great thing, but they're achieving no more than they could have done at the departmental level.

There is one strategic shift, Mr. Speaker, and that is that it empowers the Department of Education to have greater control over the individual schools, the use of facilities, which is not uncommon or not out of sync with what was represented before the Public Accounts Committee here several years ago by the Deputy Minister of Education. That being that it was the province's wish to take over transportation and facilities from all school boards in the province and that discussions had taken place with the CEOs of all school boards in the province. This is just another little thin edge of the wedge.

Mr. Speaker, those points haven't been made, and to remind the member for Timberlea-Prospect, who likes to rail on all the time about all the wonderful things that he's doing for his constituents, why hasn't he addressed that particular issue? The issue of insurance, the issue of the P3 schools, the issue of the policy that the Department of Education is trying to advance, none of those things have been dealt with.

Mr. Speaker, in closing I will say it's so ironic that a previous member in this House from the NDP caucus stood up in her place and said, we want P3 schools, we don't care how they're paid for, we don't care how you get the money, we just want the schools. There's a little question of consistency here, on principle, on logic, what you say and what you do. With that having been said, I will close my remarks.

MR. SPEAKER: If I recognize the honourable Minister of Education it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, before I close debate on Bill No. 48, I want to thank the members of the Opposition for their support of this, and I expect that most of the

[Page 4132]

members of the Third Party will see it as a good thing, too. Just a couple of informational items, in beginning my comments. First of all, the Halifax Regional School Board has revised its figures to about 50 per cent of where they were before, and the department will work with the Halifax Regional School Board to address any difficulty that arises. Secondly, I don't think it's really appropriate to put all of the P3 school partners in the same boat. For example, with the Ashford Group, the school use has been worked out with them and it's about the same policy as it is in the others.

This is about community use of publicly-owned schools, and it's part of the Learning for Life plan, and it is also now includes the opportunity for seniors' groups, 65 years and older, to use these facilities, without rental charge and subject only to out-of-pocket expenses that the facility owners might have. I hear the honourable member for Cape Breton West talking about liability, and I would think liability would be an issue, regardless of where a group met.

Mr. Speaker, with those few comments, this is a good piece of legislation, and I look forward to its unanimous passage. [I move third reading of Bill No. 48.]

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 48. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 70.

Bill No. 70 - Municipal Law Amendment (2004) Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to move third reading of Bill No. 70.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 70. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

[Page 4133]

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 73.

Bill No. 73 - Justice Administration Amendment (2004) Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I will rise very briefly to move third reading of this bill. I would like to thank all members of the House for the support that they have heretofore given to the bill. I know that there were comments about the omnibus character of the legislation, and we will attempt to reflect that in the future on the matters. I do appreciate that (Interruptions) Yes, I think part of law, of course, is an important word choice.

Mr. Speaker, in seriousness, I do appreciate the support that we've gotten from the Opposition Parties on the bill. I believe it will improve, in a number of areas, the law in Nova Scotia, and with that I move third reading.

[3:30 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: I rise briefly to speak on Bill No. 73, exactly to the point that the Minister of Justice raised himself. Since 1999 when the government was first elected, I have spoken against the idea of bringing in these Justice Administration Acts and changing a whole number of different provincial Statutes through one bill. I believe in the early years, a Justice Administration Act was up to 25 or 30 pages in length and it was numerous Acts that were being changed - some were minor housekeeping changes, others it was significant changes being made to those Acts.

Now, that is something under our Parliament that is easier to do when you have a majority government. It's not an issue because the Opposition can holler all they want, you don't really have to listen to them and you can keep doing your Justice Administration Acts, which I believe is what happened in 1999 when I first raised this as an issue because they kept doing it every year since and have done it again this year. I think the message was clearly sent. I believe my colleagues in the NDP caucus, both the member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage and the member for Halifax Fairview, have expressed concern also about bringing in these Justice Administration Acts.

[Page 4134]

One of the things I can suggest, there are two options - either the minister can break these changes down into separate Acts or - something which I know would be completely radical for the Minister of Justice - he may actually want to invite the critics of the Opposition Parties to meet with his department, go through some of these changes and address any concerns there are prior to the bill being tabled, and then leave it to the Opposition caucuses to go through and try to figure out for themselves what each of the changes are. I know that's a fairly radical suggestion, but I think at the end of the day it may be able to resolve some of the concerns which we have raised. This is a minority situation, we do expect that we're going to do our job on all pieces of legislation.

Bill No. 73 changes up to 13 provincial Statutes in this one piece of legislation. As I said, for the most part in this case they were minor changes, but in the past there have been significant changes that have gone under the purview of the Justice Administration Act. I do hope that when we sit again the minister will address this concern, and the alternative, if he does not, I do hope that the concerns raised by the NDP caucus, that they will raise those concerns again and join us in holding the minister accountable on these types of bills.

Our caucus has supported this legislation going through, with the reservation I have just given. With that, I move that Bill No. 73 move on to third reading.

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

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to close debate and move third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 73. Is the House ready for the question? Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 58.

[Page 4135]

Bill No. 58 - Mechanics' Lien Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I'm just going to rise very briefly to repeat the comments that were made earlier in the course of the Committee of the Whole House. My speaking is to thank a number of people. Obviously, the Law Reform Commission of Nova Scotia for the work they've done on the bill; I'd like to thank the Construction Association of Nova Scotia and, in particular, Carol MacCulloch for the work that she's done on this bill; I would also like to thank the Official Opposition, particularly the Leader of the Official Opposition, who has been a very strong advocate of reforming the Mechanics' Lien - or Builders' Lien as it will soon be - law in Nova Scotia. I'd like to thank the Third Party for their support as well. They supported the bill at all stages. This is really a situation where all parties involved in the building industry in Nova Scotia, whether they are the contractors or building suppliers, the workers on the sites, lawyers involved in representing their clients, they believe the law in Nova Scotia will be better and more consistent with national standards. With that, I close my debate.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: I won't be long, but I just wanted to speak on this bill because it was one of those things, when I first came into this House, that I started to talk about and it came out of the experience I had as a lawyer in a small firm, in a store-front legal firm, that was trying to provide services to small business people who were plumbers, who were pipefitters, who were carpenters, who were drywall installers, and all those guys with their toolbox and with a couple of employees and a truck who go around trying to make a living and provide for their families. The reality was that oftentimes these were the very people who were getting seen off as a result of ineffective and flawed legislation.

There is a certain amount of pride that I take today in seeing this come forward. This bill, like any bill, of course, is not perfect and as it works its way through common usage with people in the trades, as it works its way through the courts, there may be that there will be flaws that will be noticed. I was reflecting on the comment of the Minister of Justice, and he talked about how sometimes people would go back to extend the lien period. They would run back and they would pound another nail, or screw in another screw, just to say that that was the last day that they were on the site so they could extend their lien period. I remember one of the favourites of one of my clients was, we called it the doorknob and the toolbox, he would just leave a doorknob off. He would keep it in his toolbox and then go back and screw it on so that, you know, he would extend his lien period.

So that kind of nonsense should be unnecessary and I'm very much hopeful that this bill will do that. I'm very much hopeful that what it means, as I said before, the bill is really about a very simple concept which is you work and you get paid. I'm very hopeful that in the

[Page 4136]

end all those day-to-day tradesmen out there, all those people who shared the experience that I shared and the frustration with the then Mechanics' Lien Act and what now will be the Builder's Lien Act, will see progress in this legislation because it is truly about the operation of small business and it's about helping suppliers and contractors to be able to make a living, apply their trade, and support their families. That's what this is about. We're going to be supporting it and I'm pleased to see that this day has arrived.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, just briefly on Bill No. 58, I also want to certainly thank the Law Reform Commission for the work that they have done on this legislation and I use it also as, again, a reminder to the Minister of Justice and to the government of the important role that the Law Reform Commission continues to play in this province and the need to ensure that they do have adequate funding to continue in their work which I believe over the years has certainly brought forward strong legislation here and has helped up update a number of our provincial Statutes.

I just want to take the opportunity again to thank Carol MacCulloch and all the members of the Construction Association of Nova Scotia. As I've said before, this is one of those pieces of legislation which I think all organizations that want to bring bills to this Legislature should follow the same example. Carol met with the critics of each caucus, a number of MLAs in each caucus in fact, in regard to this legislation and prior to it arriving here in the House to discuss the changes they were looking for, to answer any questions that we might have had, and gave us the opportunity to be prepared when the legislation arrived here. I think that made the passage of this bill that much smoother. I think that's why you'll probably see unanimous support for this legislation and I think that is the proper way that legislation should be brought here to this province and I'm pleased that the government has gone forward with it.

As has been said, Mr. Speaker, every time we have Small Business Week, we are provided with the figures of, I believe, 90 per cent of all businesses here in Nova Scotia are considered to be small businesses. They are the economic engine of our province and it is important that we put in place the proper framework and the proper protection so that when they are applying their trade and they are working on different projects, that they are certainly protected and that they do get paid in a timely fashion and that the guarantees are put in place to do that. I'm pleased to see that this legislation has been updated. Again, I congratulate the Construction Association, the Law Reform Commission, and look forward to seeing this bill enacted.

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

The honourable Minister of Justice.

[Page 4137]

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 58.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 58. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Private and Local Bills for Third Reading.

PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 54.

Bill No. 54 - Saint Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church Incorporation Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Chester-St. Margaret's.

MR. JOHN CHATAWAY: Mr. Speaker, I would like to move third reading of Bill No. 54, Saint Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church Incorporation Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 54. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 55.

[Page 4138]

Bill No. 55 - Lenihan (Municipality of the District of Chester) Retiring Allowance Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Chester-St. Margaret's.

MR. JOHN CHATAWAY: Mr. Speaker, I have the privilege of moving Bill No. 55, Lenihan (Municipality of the District of Chester) Retiring Allowance Act. Very briefly, this request was made by the Municipality of Chester and they very much appreciate it. I would like to thank the Committee on Private and Local Bills who blessed it, too.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 55. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 56.

Bill No. 56 - Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters Act.

Bill No. 60 - Antigonish Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company Act.

Bill No. 69 - United Way of Halifax Region Act.

MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that these bills do pass. Ordered that the titles be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that these bills be engrossed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Private Members' Public Bills for Third Reading.

PRIVATE MEMBERS' PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 61.

[Page 4139]

Bill No. 61 - Theatres and Amusements Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

MS. JOAN MASSEY: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise today to speak for just a few quick minutes on Bill No. 61, Theatres and Amusements Act. I would like to first mention again that the reason for bringing this bill forward was through a personal experience relating to my youngest son, who went out on his own and purchased a game rated mature, which is 17 and above, in fact Grand Theft Auto and he was 14 years old at the time. When that happened, I went back to the store and questioned how that had occurred, because I thought there were mechanisms in place to protect our children and youth from renting these very violent video games. So I guess you could say that necessity is the mother of invention in this case.

I would like to just point out a few things, Mr. Speaker. What's in place right now for the protection of children - right now, we do control the violence that our children see at the movies but, unfortunately, there is nothing in place now to restrict access to violent video games in Nova Scotia. When this first occurred, I did do some checking on my own, and it did appear to me that most of the retail outlets felt that they had no legal right to ask for ID and, certainly, that turned out to be the case.

There are studies showing us that in the United States 78 per cent of stores do allow unaccompanied minors to purchase games rated mature. It is definitely an issue within the United States and in Nova Scotia. Studies are showing that there is a correlation between exposure to violent video and computer games and various forms of hostile and anti-social behavior.

[3:45 p.m.]

As far as some background information, we did find out that the stores were not able to enforce the ESRB rating system that they were voluntarily using. They had a system in place, which was totally voluntary, but they were not able to enforce that, Mr. Speaker.

Also, we found out that the federal government, in fact, the Justice Ministers had agreed that a rating system for video games is necessary to reduce our children's exposure to the violent media in today's society.

What we've come down to now, Mr. Speaker, is that we can't wait in Nova Scotia for that to happen, and I'm very proud to say that I'm hoping here today that this government will lead the way and that we will show that we feel that families in Nova Scotia are very important to us, and that also the protection of our children is a number-one priority.

[Page 4140]

We're just really catching up with technology here and we're going to be able to enforce age restrictions on the rental and purchase of video games. We'll be giving businesses the legal authority that they need to enforce restricted access, Mr. Speaker. The bill would just amend the Theaters and Amusements Act, so that we would be able to establish a definition of video games, and it would set the ESRB as a provincial standard, while still allowing the Cabinet to make regulations to add further standards or classifications if they're necessary in the future, because we know things do move fast in the field of technology.

It will ensure that the retail outlets sell only games that have been rated by the ESRB, or some other classification that may be adopted later on through the regulations if necessary. Also, that the bill would come into force six months after passage.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to thank all the Parties involved for their cooperation in this. All the work that the government staff have put into this bill, and also the Minister of Environment and Labour - he's been very gracious in all of his dealings with myself and everyone else. So I do look forward to seeing this become legislation and therefore, I move Bill No. 61 to third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 61. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

A recorded vote is being called for.

Ring the bells. Call the members.

[3:48 p.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

MR. SPEAKER: Order please.

Are the Whips satisfied?

[4:00 p.m.]

A recorded vote has been called for on Bill No. 61. Would all those in favour say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, if the House is in agreement, we can dispense with the roll call if you like and just call for a yea, nay.

[Page 4141]

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 61. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

Order, please. Just before we go to the Government House Leader, I did want to bring to the attention of the House, the Pages who are here with us today and who have worked so very hard for us over the last month and one-half. We have with us Christopher Dawson, Danny Daye, Meghan Goodyear, Mike Kent, Brianne Lynch who is going to be late, I don't think Graham's here yet, Shea Loewen, Evan MacDonald, Julia MacDonald, Denise MacPherson, Zoe Marks and Ryan Slade. I ask all the members to give a round of applause for these workers who have done such a great job for us this session. Thank you and on behalf of all the members, thank you for your great work during this session. They're going home for the long weekend so we thought we'd say goodbye to them. (Standing Ovation)

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, will you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 62.

Bill No. 62 - Financial Measures (2004) Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. PETER CHRISTIE: Mr. Speaker, I move Bill No. 62 be now read a third time.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.

MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise to make a few remarks on third reading - the last opportunity to address this important bill as it goes through the House.

[Page 4142]

The Financial Measures (2004) Bill implements the statutory changes required by the budgets and that makes it a matter of confidence in the government. Defeat of the Financial Measures (2004) Bill entails defeat of the government.

On second reading, I said that the government should not count on every piece of this bill getting through because there were a number of measures that did not belong in that bill, that did not entail confidence in the government and needed to be changed. I'm pleased that between then and now there have been some changes to the bill. In the Law Amendments Committee, at the request of the Minister of Finance, Part XII of the Financial Measures (2004) Bill was removed. That is something that we asked for. The Leader of the Opposition asked for it in his speech on second reading and the government saw the wisdom of that particular request.

That's the provision amending the Pension Benefits Act to remove the so-called grow-in benefit, a benefit available to older workers to aid their transition from the workforce to retirement in circumstances where the pension plan is wound up, principally should it happen that a company is wound up. That is a good thing. There are aspects of grow-in benefits that need to be looked at, we have said that we will be happy to look at those in the future, but doing it the way that was originally proposed by the government was not the right way to do it. I thank the Minister of Finance for agreeing to remove that part of the Financial Measures (2004) Bill.

I'm also pleased to say that between the Law Amendments Committee and the Committee of the Whole House, the former Part XVII now re-numbered as Part XVI, was extensively discussed outside of this House. Although this provision is still in the bill, and it's the one dealing with the 1 per cent across the board increase in Public Service pension contributions, my understanding is that the unions that represent 80 per cent of the contributors, they wish this provision was removed, but they are satisfied that it is a major win for their members that the minister will commit in writing to a speeded up process towards joint trusteeship to allow those unions to finally have their place at the table. Mr. Speaker, not only that, but the government is going to commit itself in writing . . .

AN HON. MEMBER: Got any bridges you want to sell?

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I have to note that I'm being heckled here by the Liberal Party. Now their Finance Critic was part and parcel of these discussions. She was with us every step of the way, and she has never uttered one word to suggest that what I'm saying has not received the support of the Liberal Party. If it doesn't, then let her stand up and say it. Let her stand up and say it, instead of having the boys in the back row, as usual, try to play both sides of every issue - be for the unions, but also be against them.

[Page 4143]

Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased - I won't speak for the Liberal Party - that as a result of the suggestions we've made to the government that the public sector pension plan contributors will now have a stronger voice in the management of that plan, because the government has gone beyond speeding up the timetable towards trusteeship and have also committed themselves to implementing the recommendations that the joint trustees make, starting in the next fiscal year, and that is a real improvement for public sector contributors.

Mr. Speaker, is this Financial Measures (2004) Bill what we would have done if we were in government? No, of course not. There is not enough in this budget dealing with post-secondary education, especially tuition fees. That sector is being starved of funds, so that the only recourse that the universities and colleges have is to get more and more money from students, and that, of course, means more and more money from their families. We have to address this issue.

There is not enough in this budget about economic development, especially for the reasons noted by the Leader of the Opposition today, especially for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. There is too great a reliance by this government on so-called user fees, user fees that are not truly user fees but are more in the nature of regressive taxes, and that's regrettable.

The government is taking small, very small, steps towards addressing one of the priorities of Nova Scotians, which is dealing with waiting times at emergency rooms and in emergency rooms. We still haven't dealt with the issue of home heating fuel - we have an opportunity now to deal with it before the next home heating season - and we do not have a good plan to deal with the top-of-mind issue of Nova Scotians today, which is gas prices. The government came forward with an empty bill, a bill that simply gave them power to do something in the future, Mr. Speaker. That wasn't good enough, and we're not about to give the government carte blanche to do whatever it wants without coming back, first, to this Legislature.

Mr. Speaker, we have to recognize two things. The first thing is that Nova Scotians do not want an election, they did not want an election. If this budget is defeated, if either the estimates are defeated or the Financial Measures Act is defeated, there would have to be an election starting tomorrow, and that is not what Nova Scotians want. What Nova Scotians want is for the people they put in this Legislature to make a realistic struggle to work with the dynamics we've been given, which is a minority government, to see if we can make minority government work. It would have been irresponsible for us to launch an election when it is not what the people of Nova Scotia want.

It would have been irresponsible for us to launch an election when we could not guarantee to the people of Nova Scotia that the end result would be better than what they have now. We could have ended up exactly where we are today; we could have ended up with

[Page 4144]

something worse, a Progressive Conservative majority; or we could have ended up with something infinitely worse, a Liberal Government. (Interruptions)

It would have been irresponsible for us to bring down a government unless we could convince the voters, Mr. Speaker, unless we knew that we could deliver better government to the voters. It would be irresponsible for us to bring down this minority government before we even know if it's going to work.

Mr. Speaker, the second reason is because we have to recognize what voting against this bill means because it means more than launching an election tomorrow. I anticipate, using my powers of foresight, that the Liberals are going to vote against the Financial Measures (2004) Bill. (Interruptions) I won't speak for the member for Cape Breton West, but I foresee the Liberals are going to vote against the Financial Measures (2004) Bill and I want to make it clear to this house, and to everybody, what that means. They are going to vote against repeal of the tax cut. They are voting today for higher taxes for Nova Scotians - after campaigning in the last election and relentlessly turning every issue in this House since the election into a tax cut issue. When the government finally listened to them and repealed it, or most of it, are they going to vote for it? No, they're going to vote against it. So it just goes to show Liberal is as Liberal does.

Mr. Speaker, there's something here that I think has been forgotten that I just want to remind the House of. Voting against this bill means voting against repeal of the MLA pay raise. That means the Liberal Party, if they stand up today against this bill, think that the MLAs should get the 43 per cent pay increase. I don't believe that. I don't believe that that's fair or reasonable, but apparently the Liberal Party does.

Let's not forget that voting against this bill means that that Party is voting against tuition agreements for students with special needs which is in the Financial Measures (2004) Bill. I've said to this House before that two of the most difficult constituency casework situations I've had to deal with in my three years here have been precisely that issue. Families whose children could not work and study and succeed in the regular school system, both of them took advantage of that wonderful Thomas Aquinas Centre in Dartmouth, which is about to change ownership, but to continue the project. Neither of those families could get a tuition agreement and now, finally, when the government acknowledges they need to do something about that and allocate some money for it and address that issue, I am going to congratulate the government, the Liberals are going to vote against it.

Mr. Speaker, voting for this bill, and I won't apologize for that to anybody, means that I'm voting to end the odious practice of charging seniors for their health care costs in long-term care facilities. Under the leadership of the Leader of the Opposition and our Health Critic, the member for Halifax Needham, we took this issue, which was a priority of the people, and we put it on the political agenda and we kept it there until the government saw that that was the right thing to do. They do that in this budget and they should be

[Page 4145]

congratulated for it. That is one of the major reasons why I and my Party voted to support this budget.

Last year before the election, I sat in the kitchen of a woman in the riding of Halifax Clayton Park, not my own riding. She called me because she knew, as a New Democrat, this was our issue, Mr. Speaker. Tears ran down her face as she showed me the bills for her husband's long-term care facility. It was going to take everything that they had, everything that they worked for. She was beside herself; she didn't know what to do.

[4:15 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, after I vote for this budget, I'm going to be able to go back into the kitchen and say we said we'd do it, and we did it. The Liberals are voting against it. A few days ago, I was in a workplace in my riding - I was doing some business in this workplace and one of the workers whom I happen to know and whose mother is in a transitional care bed looking for a place in a long-term care facility. He came up and said, thank you. Thank you, for your hard work. Thank you, for doing this for me and my family. I'm not going to apologize to anybody for saying that I, along with all of my NDP caucus colleagues, fought for that and won that for that man, and his mother, and their family. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, let me say that we are going to support the Financial Measures (2004) Bill because we can't support the vote on the estimates and then turn around and vote against the Financial Measures(2004) Bill. It's an imperfect budget. It's the budget that we were given. It's a budget that delivers on one of our priorities, on one of the people's priorities. It shows that minority government can work for the people; it shows that working together we can achieve a better deal for today's families, and for that I am proud to vote yes. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I think to begin with it's important to look at the complexity of government, and I think nobody knows that better than the members sitting across from me, the members who had to craft a budget this time round. It isn't easy, being a minority government makes it harder. It doesn't help when there's a lot of posturing and a lot of partisanship that goes on this House. (Laughter) And I haven't been a part of that. (Interruptions) It is an eye-opener to be here in provincial politics and see how things become obscured and how issues become blanketed with a lot of other nonsense.

The basic point here is that this bill is flawed because it is a catch-all bill; everything is rolled into it. Everything that the government didn't want to debate separately and ad nauseam - probably in their minds - is rolled into this bill. Things that don't belong here are in this bill. As members of the Opposition we have to look at all of the items in it, and we have to consider what it means in terms of the budget. We have to consider what other things have been put in there in which debate is going to be stifled upon.

[Page 4146]

One of the things in particular would be the fact that you've added things like tuition agreements for the special needs' schools like the Thomas Aquinas Centre - that's great, that's a wonderful thing, we like that. What about separating the Southwest Regional School Board into two different boards against really their wishes? We heard at the Committee on Law Amendments from both those new boards who have concerns and issues. They certainly have issues. At the same time, no debate has taken place about their testimony at the Committee on Law Amendments because it's only one of 50 clauses in this bill. So where on earth is the time to properly discuss what the implications are for that part of the province in terms of the governance of their school board? It doesn't exist.

At the same time they've taken another bill about the government having greater powers to fire CEOs under certain circumstances - roll that into this Financial Measures (2004) Bill as well, that means we can't debate the issues and the detail of that. It will become, again, something that will be determined by regulation by the government or Cabinet and we have no say in it, it just gets rolled in along with everything else.

There are many things that are fine in this bill. The idea of freezing MLAs' pay, there was never any objection on the part of the Liberal Party or the NDP for that, but it hasn't had any discussion because it's an area that everybody's uncomfortable with, so let's roll that in there too. It is at least a financial thing, I will give you that. There are many things in there that could be questioned as whether or not they have anything to do with finance. Yet we look at it as a package and we're forced to deal with it as a package.

As I said, we also, as we discussed this, looked at the budget as well and certainly looked at things that were not evident in this year's budget. We see nothing at all for economic development and particularly for rural economic development. No mention, as we said, of Cape Breton in the entire budget or financial measures. There's nothing there that relates to the difficulties and issues facing Cape Breton as one unique region in this province.

Our universities have again been strangled, they've just been kept at the same level. The Primary to Grade 12 education sees $1 million extra, above and beyond the adjustment for salary changes that are needed. So, no new programs, nothing new that we can point to that pulls us out of the morass that we're in right now.

Health care spending is up and that's wonderful. We applaud the $230 million, but where's the plan? Even Roy Romanow said you need a plan before you pump more money in and it's great to respond to the knee-jerk reaction that we have to have money in health care, but we do need a plan. I think I speak on behalf of all Nova Scotians when I say, if we could see some new improvement, some things that were going forward like we discussed yesterday, some funding for children with autism - that would be one small component of that extra money - yet we don't see that.

[Page 4147]

Not everything is as it appears. It is a complex world and governance is complex. I understand that government had to make a lot of difficult decisions about what new taxes we'd look at, how we'd raise the revenue to get us to a balanced budget, which I have to say is important to all members of this House. All three Parties said they supported balanced budgets. That is important.

It is true that for months, from the election onward, we sounded the alarm that we could not afford a tax cut at this time, that it was premature. Not that the intent was not laudable, it was premature. Our finances don't allow for it. There was too much hopeful, wishful thinking in order to bring that together, and we hope for more money from Ottawa, we hope that there's a new agreement on health or equalization - those things didn't happen and it was a little bit too precarious to bet the farm on.

At the end of the day there was a belated realization and recognition on the part of the government that it wasn't going to work. You needed a good share of that revenue back into the pot in order to make this balanced budget. So we got $90 million back out of $147 million that was to be given back to taxpayers. But in doing so, so late, you've actually had the necessity of clawing back money to make last year's budget balance. To get money . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

MS. WHALEN: Although it is the right thing to do, it was still a half-measure and it came late. The half part is that you're doubling - you're not going forward, you're also taking extra and applying it to last year's budget. That hurts people who are taxpayers in Nova Scotia. That I took exception to and so did members of our Party.

We also introduced a new highest tax bracket rate which is not competitive with our closest neighbour, New Brunswick. We've introduced more taxes on our corporations and it's interesting that we've just seen another bill come forward to do with a municipal preferential tax treatment for the Imperial Oil refinery here in Nova Scotia with the intent of keeping jobs and trying to make it better for that one operation here in Nova Scotia, to make them more competitive. But at the same time, we've extended the large corporations tax which means that new investment by big corporations is going to be taxed at a higher level than it previously was.

The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association which represents 1,400 of our largest employers, had spoken very vigorously against that tax, asking the government to withdraw it, that it was supposed to. It had a sunset clause of two years ago and they asked you to withdraw it. Instead, the amount has been increased.

Those 1,400 companies employ 50,000 Nova Scotians. If they invest and expand, that's good for our economy. I might mention that many, in fact the majority of their members, are outside of HRM. They are all over the province. They're in many small, rural

[Page 4148]

and smaller towns and communities in Nova Scotia. If they are encouraged to invest, you've created jobs. If there's a penalty or a discouragement, that could be a job killer. It kind of is an exact opposite of what we looked at with the bill on Imperial Oil. We should be making the place more competitive for business and there was a recognition, at least in discussing that with Imperial Oil, but again that was the wrong mechanism to do it.

We need a plan for economic growth and we need to sustain some of our other essential services like education, not just health alone. As I say, it's a difficult situation to look at 50 clauses that are totally unrelated and come up with a final answer that it's positive or negative. There is a lot more to it than one clause or one item which the member for Halifax Fairview would have you believe, so it isn't a win-lose always in government. I think there are other people in this House who don't quite see it in the complexity that it has.

The grow-in benefits for pensions, for example, has been taken out of the Financial Measures (2004) Bill and that may be good if it can be discussed in more detail. I think, of all the things to remove from the bill, that's one that we should be very careful about because, again, at the Law Amendments Committee, we had the opportunity to hear from universities and from groups that represent large employers like the Capital Health District and the health authorities. They are saying that this is an extra cost to all pension plan contributors and it's a cost against an eventuality that, in many cases, is almost impossible.

The universities feel they will continue in perpetuity, the health authorities would always have their pension plans continued, municipalities as well spoke against it, so it's actually creating a burden on a very large number of pension plan members, and may, in fact, jeopardize the continuance of defined benefit plans because it is a big expense on defined benefit plans.

Now, I agree it needs more discussion, I'm not sure of the people who might be harmed by that because we haven't had the opportunity, again, because the mechanism of this bill is very limited; we can discuss it but we cannot amend it. We were told very clearly at the Law Amendments Committee that it is not to be treated like other bills, we can't tinker or change wording, we can't just discuss about eliminating clauses . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. There is too much noise in the Chamber. I would ask the honourable members to go outside if they must talk.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, even though at the Law Amendments Committee, with other bills we were able to discuss and amend, and if there is a majority of members at the Law Amendment Committee who feel a certain way, we can make changes - it's not so with this. Even if the three members from the Liberal Party and the three from the NDP chose to amend this bill, it would be seen as a non-confidence - I was told by the government. They were not prepared to entertain any amendments to this bill, so it was different from the other bills that we have dealt with in that committee. Therefore, we are not able to look for any

[Page 4149]

improvement on any of those 50 clauses, it's a take it or leave it, other than the fact that the government themselves agreed to withdraw the grow-in benefits clause and bring it back later for separate discussion.

On the section about superannuation and the 1 per cent increase, we totally agreed that there had been a lack of consultation with plan members. I believe the government made that admission as well, there should have been greater consultation at an earlier time, it would have prevented a lot of misunderstanding, and perhaps a lot of that reaction to that 1 per cent increase being included in the budget. I believe the unions, themselves, had looked at the figures, they understood the need for an increase in the contribution levels but they would have preferred to see that happen later, after the consultation took place.

We understand that the discussions that were held - of which I was invited and I appreciate that - both the Finance Critic from the NDP and myself were able to attend a couple of meetings with the minister and his staff, and members of the union to try to see if there was a solution in sight that would try to make up, really, for the lack of consultation that could have happened in previous months and would have made all of the difference.

I believe all Parties are happy with the idea that you're moving quickly towards joint trusteeship, we agreed with that, and also the talk centred around the fairness issue and whether or not 1 per cent on all workers' salaries was fair, because some workers are at a lower level and will pay on all of their earnings, some are at a higher level and some of their earnings will be exempt from that. It was felt that it was not a fair rate across the board and that it should be looked at. We had agreement from the Department of Finance staff that they would examine the fairness issue. I think that, again, is a very important step forward because that needs to be heard. When the unions are saying this, they've looked at it, they feel strongly about it, we need to listen.

I think that there was some success there, some movement on that issue, I believe there was good consultation, and I was happy to be included in it. Beyond that, there may have been meetings of which I was not a part, I'm not aware of that, but perhaps there were further meetings held. As far as I was involved, certainly, the unions were happy with that.

What is in the Financial Measures (2004) Bill and the budget that I might have great concerns about? Number one, if we go back to what the Liberal Party had campaigned on and stood for and continues to stand for, was a freezing of user fees. In the run-up to the election we had 508 new user fees announced and a number of those were then incorporated into this Financial Measures (2004) Bill because, in fact, they're taxes, they're not just user fees. So those are now in that bill, and that's a significant increase. In fact, over the last five years, we've had a 100 per cent increase in user fees in Nova Scotia, over a period of five, I think, major jumps in different user fees. So that's a concern to us to see that happen again.

[Page 4150]

[4:30 p.m.]

There's an increase in corporate taxes on financial institutions and on the large corporations, so we're looking at additional revenue of $17.5 million from that, $13 million from user fees. We had stood firm on the idea of holding the line on personal income tax, just holding it steady, status quo, last Summer. That didn't happen, it's been adjusted and altered, and, in fact, as I said from July until the end of the year, many taxpayers will be paying double on the amount that they were given as a benefit for the last six months. So they will pay it back and then some. It's certainly not satisfactory, and it's of concern to us all.

Mr. Speaker, there are certainly many elements to this. I would just like to return to the idea that life is complex, it's not simple, and in this House there's an attempt, often, to simplify things, to say it's one issue alone and it's winner take all, win or lose. Well, that's not the way a lot of people do business, and I think that Nova Scotians can understand that there's complexity, that there is more than one item in a 50-clause bill, that there's more than one thing that you hang your hat on. I think it's very important that we allow Nova Scotians to understand and not try to simplify things to the lowest common denominator, and sometimes in this House a very base common denominator, I might add, and that we look at things in their complexity, and we have a level of debate in this House that is really in keeping with the importance of the matters that we're looking at.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to have the opportunity to rise and make a few comments in regard to the Financial Measures (2004) Bill, especially in light of the commentary that we were subjected to from the member for Halifax Fairview. (Interruptions)

Mr. Speaker, the fact is the member for Halifax Fairview talks about a vote of confidence, he talks about it triggering an election. A vote for this budget and vote for this Financial Measures (2004) Bill is a vote to say that the Premier and his government have been providing the people of Nova Scotia with good government in the past year or in the last five years. (Applause)

Now, I'm not surprised to see the Tory members applaud, but it's unfortunate that the NDP does not join them in that applause because, in essence, voting for the budget and voting for this bill is to tell Nova Scotians not only have they gotten good government but it's the best they could have expected, or we could also use what the member for Hants East has been saying on behalf of his NDP colleagues, that it's better than nothing. That, in essence, is what the NDP have reduced themselves to, to say it's better than nothing. Whether it be the budget, whether it be the Assessment Act, whether it be the Imperial Oil bill, whether it be the 48-hour notice for gas price increases, it's better than nothing.

[Page 4151]

Mr. Speaker, our Party is saying to this government and to this Premier that Nova Scotians expect better and Nova Scotians certainly deserve better from their government than what they have gotten over the last five years, and certainly in this budget. Keep in mind that from 1999 until 2004, this government has $1 billion in additional yearly revenue than what the previous government had, $1 billion, yet, is our health care system fixed, as the Premier committed he would do? It certainly isn't. Has our debt stopped growing, as the Premier promised he would do and that he would not put a burden on our grandchildren or his grandchildren under his tenure?

SOME HON. MEMBERS: No.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Has the government kept its commitment not to raise taxes?

SOME HON. MEMBERS: No.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Well, between the user fees and the gas tax, that two cents a litre, that has taken over $50 million out of the pockets of hard-working Nova Scotians, when the Premier promised he would not do that. Are we to stand in this House and say, this is the best Nova Scotians could expect? Are there provisions in this budget that address some of the concerns of Nova Scotians? There certainly are, and I believe my colleague has pointed them out well.

Paying for seniors in long-term care is an important issue. But let me tell you what this budget doesn't do. What does it do for the seniors who want to remain in their own homes, who want to be independent, who want to be around family members and want to stay in their homes as long as they possibly can? Let the NDP come to Richmond County and speak to the young family whose mother now has Alzheimer's. They are a young couple. The wife had to leave work to stay with her mum and they call and say what program is out there to allow us to keep mum at home? We don't want to put her in a nursing home. Alzheimer's requires her to be in a familiar environment so she can enjoy her quality of life for as long as she can. Putting her in a nursing home is not what's in her best interests. Yet that is what this government is forcing that family to do and that is what the NDP is giving its support to by their comments here in this House and by their vote.

Mr. Speaker, this budget does not say one word for better housing grants for seniors. It does not talk about better home care. It does not talk about in-home support to allow that young family to keep their mother at home where she belongs and where the government should allow her to remain. That is not in here. So when they talk about seniors, let us keep in mind the hypocrisy of who has been forgotten in their seniors' plan. Our Party will continue to speak for seniors throughout this province, whether they're in nursing homes or whether they want to remain in their own home. Our Party will continue to do that.

[Page 4152]

Mr. Speaker, voting for this budget is telling Nova Scotia university students, this is the best you can get and this is the best you deserve. No more money to help students with rising tuition costs. No more money to keep tuitions at a reasonable level. Every day we see that the community college, the Agriculture College, and every university, has increased tuition. Yet are we to say this is good enough and that our students don't deserve better than this? Is this how we're going to move our province forward?

Mr. Speaker, we say it's not good enough, the students deserve better, and if the government could stand here and tell us, well, these are tough fiscal times, we don't have as much revenue as we had in 1999 - $1 billion and yet we're supposed to say this is good enough? That is clearly unacceptable and yet the Premier wants more money. He says I don't have enough money. He wants more for health care, a system he said himself, as a doctor, health care does not need more money, it needs better management; $600 million later, it is not fixed, Premier, and you want Ottawa to give more money. Yet where is that more money to go? The Minister of Health would have us believe it will go to health. The Minister of Finance, on one day, he agrees with the Health Minister, but then the Premier, in his own statement, when he cut back this ill-fated tax cut, which he knew was a political ploy from day one, he said the minute Ottawa kicks in more money, I will give you back the tax cut.

So that's not money going to health care, Mr. Speaker, that's money going to the Premier's tax scheme, not the health of Nova Scotians. For us to vote for this budget and this bill, it's to say we agree with you, Premier. Obviously, the NDP have, once again, changed their tax policy and agree more money from Ottawa should go to tax cuts and not go to health care. That is clearly unacceptable, but let us look at the health care system that the Premier said he would fix. Under his own plan that he sent out to Nova Scotians recently, he says at the current rate health care will consume the entire provincial budget by 2025. The Premier acknowledges that, he says yes. Is that a plan? That's your plan to consume the entire provincial budget - a Premier who said health care doesn't need more money, it needs better management?

We're on a crisis course here, Mr. Speaker, and yet the NDP has chosen not to even acknowledge it. The Progressive Conservatives are bragging that their plan isn't working and that unless they continue to get more and more money, health care is going to be in a worse state than it is now. At what point are we able to say, at what point can this government say, if we have this much money, we can manage health care? They cannot say that because they don't even know under their own plan and as long as they continue to force seniors to have to go into nursing homes, our health care will continue, our costs will continue to rise, and there will be no end of it.

Mr. Speaker, there is not one mention in this budget about rural economic development and how ironic to hear the Leader of the NDP stand in his first question to talk about the situation in Cape Breton. If he was serious about the situation in Cape Breton, he would send a strong message to this government that rural economic development must be

[Page 4153]

a top priority. You can continue citing all the numbers of our youth and of our people who have left, not only Cape Breton, but left communities throughout the entire province.

Mr. Speaker, the example was given the other day by my colleague, the member for Cape Breton South, about the Provincial Employment Program. I hear the member for Hants East saying there was no plan under the Liberal Party. We had over 2,000 students that were being hired for the Summer to work in their home communities throughout rural Nova Scotia. This government has gutted that program, now, I believe, there are 600 students from 2,000.

Mr. Speaker, I can tell you the situation in Richmond County. Our students go to university they don't even come back for the Summers anymore. We don't even have an opportunity for them to want to put down roots in our community, to take an interest in our community, because they say there is nothing for me, I can't even get a Summer job anymore. I have to stay in Halifax or stay in New Brunswick or stay in Ontario or stay in Antigonish. That is unacceptable. A vote for this budget is saying that that is good as the youth of this province deserve.

Mr. Speaker, as I have said, the idea of standing here and saying, it's better than nothing, at least it's something, Nova Scotians did not send a minority government here to allow the government to get away with that sort of judgment. It's not going to work and should not work for the budget, the Financial Measures Act, assessment, the 48-hour gas notice or the Imperial Oil. I found it interesting how the member for Halifax Fairview, in his best impression of Kreskin could tell us how the Liberal caucus would vote on the budget. I would be curious if he could tell us how his Party will vote on the Imperial Oil bill.

No, Mr. Speaker, if there's one thing we've seen in this session is the changes of policy that have taken place within that Party. It's ironic to see them lecture us. We all know that the member for Halifax Fairview is going through a crisis of conscience in having voted for this budget. I wish him well in resolving that. I don't assume that it's going to be done any time soon, but at the end of the day, he didn't want to make any apologies for voting for this budget.

For what I have just said here and the examples I've given, I make no apologies to the seniors who want to stay in their own homes, to the youth who want to stay in this province and in their rural communities, the rural communities that want to continue to grow economically, or to students who want to have an affordable education and be able to get the degree they want without having to face insurmountable debt. I do not apologize for standing up for them. Our caucus will continue to stand up for them. This budget is not good enough. Nova Scotians deserve more and we will continue to demand more from this Premier and this government on behalf of Nova Scotians. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

[Page 4154]

MR. SPEAKER: If I recognize the honourable minister, it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. PETER CHRISTIE: In closing debate on Bill No. 62, I would like to thank the Finance Critics from the NDP and from the Liberals for working together on this. They had some issues to work through and I certainly appreciate their co-operation with us. Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 62.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 62. Is the House ready for the question? Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 74.

Bill No. 74 - Oil Refineries and L.N.G. Plants Municipal Taxation Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I move this bill be now read for a third time.

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

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I rise to spend a few moments speaking on third reading of Bill No. 74. I might say at the outset that this statement here is probably the kind of statement that will make you wonder why this bill is here at all. On Broadcast News, May 18th, at 3:41 p.m., Imperial Oil told a Nova Scotia Legislative Committee that it never specifically asked for a property tax break for its Dartmouth refinery but it will take one. Now, here we have the ridiculous spectacle of a government interfering in municipal affairs in this province by offering to make life a lot easier for an international conglomerate over in Dartmouth by offering them tax breaks that they didn't even look for.

[Page 4155]

But you know, Mr. Speaker, somebody has cooked a deal here with Imperial Oil and then have come to the Legislature with a bill and when I heard the discussion going on in committee, there was nobody there who was really in favour of this bill, the people who were there were saying, what a terrible tragedy it is when the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations will say that the municipal units in this province lack leadership. Those aren't my words, they're the words of the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, who said that municipal leaders lack leadership. He said that one hour ago in this House on another bill. He can shake his head no all he wants, but you look up Hansard and it will say that the minister said there was no leadership at the municipal level in this province. That's what he said, and he can shake his head no all he wants, but Hansard will correct that when he looks it up.

[4:45 p.m.]

Also, Mr. Speaker, why is this bill here? Why is this government meddling in the municipal affairs of this province? The one jurisdiction left to municipalities is property taxation and the ability to tax people for their own needs on the basis of property taxation in this province. They don't have the luxury of all kinds of licences and fees that they can hike up and call them user fees at any time they want. They don't have the luxury of making a lot of money off of those fees, like the government does. They rely on property taxation.

Now here we have a government, Mr. Speaker, that is trying to do economic development by giving a tax break to an international conglomerate, instead, I might suggest to the Premier that he might send Nova Scotia Business Inc. over there to talk to them, because they're doing nothing anyway except bringing in the odd call centre to the province. Did they try to send Nova Scotia Business Inc. over there? Did they try to send the Department of Economic Development over there to talk to them? No. What they're trying to do is give Nova Scotians the illusion that they want to keep this refinery in Nova Scotia, but they're not doing anything themselves. All they're doing is putting the costs on the Halifax Regional Municipality, which will have to raise taxes to accommodate this, somewhere down the road with the revenue they're going to lose.

The so-called Office of Economic Development should be involved here, and they're not. The only answer to economic development in a situation that, by the way, Mr. Speaker, is unclear as to what kind of trouble Imperial Oil is in. I suggest to you that Imperial Oil isn't in any trouble. Imperial Oil, somehow, has gotten the ear of the government for a cheaper tax deal in the future and that cheaper tax deal is going to come at the expense of other property taxpayers in HRM. There's no doubt in my mind about that.

And what's to stop Imperial Oil, in a couple of years' time, from coming back again, Mr. Speaker, and saying, well, we hoodwinked them on that one, we got a deal there, now we're still going to leave unless you do something else for us. To hear the minister talk about that and to hear the Premier outside the House earlier saying that they're doing everything

[Page 4156]

they possibly can to keep the refinery in Nova Scotia, well, the government is doing nothing. The government is putting legislation through that's going to impact negatively on the HRM, the Halifax Regional Municipality. The government is not putting any money in there to help Imperial Oil out, they're putting a bill to this House that will impact negatively on the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Mr. Speaker, I think it's telling that the NDP are all in this. The NDP, that great socialist Party in Nova Scotia, who, whenever it suits them philosophically, will harass the Sobeys of this world or will harass the Michelins of this world or will say to big business in Nova Scotia, that we don't want you, you're corporate welfare bums. That's what they've said in the past. Every time there's a development agreement that came here for a big business in Nova Scotia, the NDP criticized it; the NDP never, ever, to my recollection, ever supported a big business deal in this province.

What's different here? I'll tell you what's different here, Mr. Speaker. What's different here is politics. There are a couple of NDP members who may be impacted negatively, politically, if they don't support this bill. So political ideology has gone right out the window in favour of political salvation for a couple of members. The House Leader for the NDP said that to the press. At least he was honest with them. Why are you supporting this bill? Well, some of the workers live in my riding. Never mind that the voters and the taxpayers of Halifax Regional Municipality are going to have to pay more taxes in the future. He's going to get a few more votes or save a few more votes in his constituency, because he's going to vote for this bill.

Never mind political ideology - listen, the people I see missing in that caucus today are what I call the most socialist of that Party. They're not here. Why aren't they here? Because I think . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please. The honourable member for Cape Breton South knows it's not proper to indicate the absence or presence of members of the House, and I would thank him for that, please.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South has the floor.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: That's been done. I didn't invent that. That's been done here many a time . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Not today.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: But I won't bring to the attention of this House that three members are missing in the NDP. All I know . . .

[Page 4157]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please. No. I've ruled not to say it, and if the member does it again, I will ask him to take his place and I'll call for the next speaker.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, let me continue, then, and say to this House that I think trying to do economic development on the backs of the Halifax Regional Municipality is shameful. This government should be ashamed of itself. They're treading on municipal territory here - the last bastion of independence for municipalities is the right to set property tax rates in their municipality. Now that's been taken away from them and a wide door has been opened here. The wide door has been opened with the help of the NDP.

Every big business that comes to Nova Scotia in the future now has the opportunity to say, you did it for Esso, why don't you do it for us? To hear the House Leader for the NDP again talk to the press and say, we're protecting the refineries in Nova Scotia, well, hello, there's only one here and that one . . .

SOME HON. MEMBERS: What happened to Ultramar? (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: . . . reacted, you know? The spectacle of a company that's making hundreds of millions of dollars a year about to get a tax break from this government, aided and abetted by the socialists in this province, I think is an affront to democracy in this province and an affront to every taxpayer in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Mr. Speaker, the Halifax Regional Municipality and its mayor and council are against this bill. The Cape Breton Regional Municipality is against the intent of this bill. Every single person who came to this House was against this bill. There was not one person who came before the Law Amendments Committee or spoke to me or anybody in our Party or, I suggest to you, anybody in those Parties, except the people who might work there and live in a couple of NDP ridings over there - other than that, nobody is for this bill. That tells me, why did the Minister of Energy cook up a deal here with Esso? Because the Minister of Energy was exorcised about getting this bill through two or three weeks ago and said it's absolutely necessary, we have to get this bill through.

What kind of a deal was made that the so-called socialists bought into it? I'd like to know that. I'd like to know that because the NDP have sent so many mixed messages in the last few weeks in this House that nobody knows what they stand for anymore. I'll give you a good example of that. A person told me the other day that they had no idea what the NDP stood for anymore in this province. They have 15 members and probably . . .

[Page 4158]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. There's too much noise in the Chamber. I ask the members to go outside if they have to talk, please.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Here we have the Halifax Regional Municipality very concerned about this bill. It's municipal jurisdiction. The member behind me there says, Peter Kelly. So, somebody doesn't like Peter Kelly. Well, I'm going to tell you, Peter Kelly's going to be around a lot longer than some of these members are going to be here, I'll tell you that. To my knowledge he's not even a Liberal, Mr. Speaker, but I'll tell you, he's looking out for his municipality. When he came to this Legislature and demonstrated the fact that this was his jurisdiction, a municipal jurisdiction, and this government should not be meddling in municipal affairs here, he's absolutely right. He is absolutely right and his council is absolutely right.

I think it's shameful that this government can't think up any other way to sit down and talk to Esso about their problems - if they do have any problems over there with their future expansion - but to give them a property tax break that they won't even have to pay for. It will be the municipal taxpayers on their tax bills, that's who will pay for this break. This government can't even do economic development for a big company like that without resorting to another jurisdiction and really, really putting it to the taxpayers of the HRM.

I think that when the smoke clears on this bill people are going to realize that this is a bad bill because it opens a very wide door, it opens the door for future companies to come to this government now and say, we're not going to stay here anymore unless you give us a better tax deal. We don't care about the municipality, we don't care if the working man of the HRM has to pay more property taxes because of that, we don't care about that. But we're big, we're international, we're making all kinds of money but we want to make more.

Here we have a spectacle of the government giving a tax break to a company that is charging $1 per litre at the pumps right now, for gas, laughing at Nova Scotians, making millions of dollars profit and this government is aiding and abetting that by giving them tax breaks. What a joke. Are we going to vote for a crowd like that who can't even be entrusted to go over there and talk to this company about economic development? The easiest way out is the way they always take, they are doing absolutely nothing on economic development in this province, absolutely nothing. They couldn't even do this, they couldn't even sit down and devise another means, except to put it on the municipality.

I don't know why, other than for political reasons, the NDP would support this bill. I am anxious to hear the NDP get up and give Nova Scotians reasons - I challenge them to get up and give Nova Scotians reasons - why they are supporting an international company like Esso, other than for the obvious political reason that they're trying to save some votes in their ridings and to heck with the rest of the Halifax Regional Municipality, or by extension, to heck with Nova Scotians. If that door is opened here, in the Halifax Regional Municipality, it will be opened right across this province.

[Page 4159]

Mr. Speaker, I'm going to take my place in a few moments but before I do, I'm challenging the socialists to tell this House and tell Nova Scotians why their socialist values have been thrown out the window in favour of supporting an international company like Esso, who are making millions of dollars in this province and are laughing at this government for coming forward with a tax break for them. I want to hear the answer to that from the NDP. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I have to speak on this bill as well. We have already seen the Assessment Act passed here this afternoon that is going to add tax burden to every taxpayer in the Province of Nova Scotia on their municipal tax bill over time. It is going to put an unfair playing field for so many people in the community; over the three-year period that is going to be in place before it's reviewed, it's going to be unbelievable. Now we're seeing another refinery bill here to give a big company that, again, is charging $1 per litre for fuel a tax break at the expense of the property tax owners in the municipality - in the Halifax Regional Municipality. That means a senior citizen who lives in Preston, who lives in Porters Lake, who lives in any other community in the regional municipality is going to be paying taxes to cover the taxes for an oil refinery - that is outrageous, absolutely outrageous and it's being supported by the government and their left wing, the NDP. I can't believe this.

There are all kinds of tools the government could have used to do proper economic development to help the oil refinery, if they needed to stay here. I don't think they needed that, they didn't request this, they only requested to go back to government and say that if they need some kind of assistance in another way would you consider it, that's all they asked for. But no, the government had to run in and make sure the property taxpayers in this province and municipality are going to pay extra taxes because the refinery isn't, and it's absolutely outrageous. Again, it will go on the backs of all these members here who represent the regional municipality when they go talk to the residents in their communities who wonder why their property taxes have gone so high and the services aren't there, the new sports fields aren't built . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

MR. COLWELL: . . . the road improvements in the core of the city aren't made, there is no more transit there that people are going to have to use because the gasoline prices got so high. There's going to be none of these services available because we're paying taxes to support a refinery. It's unbelievable, absolutely unbelievable.

[Page 4160]

[5:00 p.m.]

When finally people realize this, they're going to remember this at the polls. I've been talking to people who have called me up who really have a grasp on what's going on in this legislation and fully understand what's going on, probably more than the NDP and the government do, and understand what is happening here. It's shifting the tax burden again from the province with economic development that they're not doing to the municipal taxpayer, the taxpayer who's being overtaxed at the present time because of downloading in other areas and the millions of dollars they pay in compulsory education which should come to an end and be totally a provincial responsibility.

The province doesn't have enough money to fix the roads so they're downloading more and more on the municipalities. Soon the property tax burden in the regional municipality is going to be absolutely unbearable, not just for the people who are on fixed incomes and low income earners, it's going to be for everybody. You're not going to be able to pay your property taxes and if you can't pay your property taxes, homes are going to go for sale. The real estate market is going to crash. I mean this could be a serious, serious long-term impact on a municipality. Some people who have no vision and can't see what this is going to do, I mean you can tax people so far and for so long and they can no longer afford to pay. When the day comes that they can't afford to pay any more, the consequences begin and those consequences I don't think are far away.

You see so many things that the municipality needs to do. You see the recreational requirements in municipalities. You see the infrastructure they've got built. You see the major system they're working on now in the sewer treatment system and the regional plan they're going through which has some major flaws in it, but at least it's a plan that they're going to put together. If they do this plan and they find they've got to improve their transit system so people can get around easier, and get to work easier without having the high expense of $1 a litre, and dear knows where that's going to end, that's not going to be possible to do. So it's going to hit them again in their pocketbooks. It's becoming more and more difficult for people to live in the province, and to suffer the tax burden that they're suffering, the more we download on the taxpayers at the municipal level on their property taxes.

What about the people who have large holdings of woodland in the municipality who are going to be paying Imperial Oil's property taxes? That's what this is. They're going to be paying Imperial Oil's property taxes and every time you go to the gas pumps, you want to remember that. You're paying their tax. You're paying not only a tax at the pumps, but you're paying it on your property tax. Maybe the municipality should put a little line on their taxes because we've seen that happen before, you know, Imperial Oil tax imposed by the Province of Nova Scotia. Maybe that should go on their tax bill. It probably will knowing how very efficient the municipal people are in HRM. That would be a very neat line on there.

[Page 4161]

I know a few years ago when I was on council, I had them break down the extra taxes to show where it is in education that what they paid to the province is compulsory. So maybe that's an extra line in there that every time they pay and maybe they should put underneath there to call your NDP member, or call your Progressive Conservative member, who voted for that when they've got to pay their tax bill when it's up. I guarantee you, you will get a lot of phone calls, a lot of phone calls, and a lot of very irate people who are paying taxes for things they do not get.

We had a big tax debate in the rural areas and the tax structure was all changed because the rural areas were paying too much tax for the service they received. So if you add another 2 cents on the tax rate, which is about $2 million a year, would add about $2 million in the regional municipality. Another 2 cents on the tax rate, it doesn't sound like a lot. You're paying $1.25 now roughly in some areas. So you go up to $1.27, not a big increase, but it adds to it. It adds to the tax burden and then you add the changes they made in this assessment now that some people are going to have their assessments frozen and other ones will climb as they sell properties and stuff, inequities are going to be all over the place and it's going to probably affect the municipality in a very negative way.

It's just hard to believe that this is going to happen. It's easy for everyone else to sit here who's going to vote for this thing and say this is a great thing, it's not going to affect anybody, but I guarantee you in three to five years they will remember this conversation and they will remember when the people come back to them and tell them we're not going to vote for you any more, we're not going to support you any more because you've done the things that tax us so badly we can't afford to live in our home and keep our home any more, that we worked our whole life to get. With those comments, I will close my debate.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I wanted the opportunity to make a few comments on the record in regard to Bill No. 74. I know both of my colleagues have spoken quite extensively in regard to the issue surrounding the Imperial Oil facility and I wanted the opportunity to speak a bit more about the LNG provision that is in this bill.

Mr. Speaker, again, I want to reiterate the comments I made at the Law Amendments Committee. Most Nova Scotians who have been following the LNG debate know that there is a proposal being put forward by Access Northeast Energy to locate an LNG in Bear Head, which finds itself in the Point Tupper Industrial Park in Richmond County. Now, I can tell you that everyone in the Strait area has been doing their utmost to work with these proponents to try to make sure that any of their concerns that they have can be addressed and that the community support is there for them.

[Page 4162]

I can tell you, you'd be hard-pressed to find another community either in this province or anywhere, I would suggest to you, that has been more welcoming and more understanding than what the Strait area has been to this company. You only need to look at how other proposals have been welcomed on the eastern seaboard of the U.S., where they have been clearly rejected because of a lack of information, because of the lack of willingness to work with the proponents. That is not the case in the Strait area.

Mr. Speaker, it's important to know when this provision was put in here how much consultation took place with either myself as the member for Richmond, the Municipal Council of Richmond County, the Municipal Council of Guysborough, the Town of Port Hawkesbury or any of the other Strait area units. There was absolutely none. The minister went to them and said, here's what we're doing. It wasn't what role can you help us play in this, here's our concern, here's what we want to do. That just did not happen. The consultation was not there.

I can tell you that Richmond, Guysborough, Port Hawkesbury, all the other units are prepared to bend over backwards to help locate that facility in the Strait area. But what they're being told through this bill and what they have said when they came to the Law Amendments Committee, both Richmond and Guysborough said, why are we being excluded as part of this process? Why are we being asked to allow the Cabinet to sit in Halifax, determine what the assessment will be for this facility and then we'll be told afterwards?

Mr. Speaker, that is clearly unacceptable. The municipal units are prepared to do what they can to assist this company. Let's also keep in mind that Richmond County has the second lowest industrial tax rate in Nova Scotia, I believe Kentville may have the actual lowest in the province the last time I checked, but Richmond is second. I believe Richmond, if I'm not mistaken is up to three times lower than what it is here in Halifax. That is because we have a municipal council that has been diligent and doing its best to keep the industrial rates as low as possible to be able to attract new business and new industry to Richmond County.

Mr. Speaker, this government should be applauding Richmond County. They should be working with the Richmond Municipal Council to say we want you as a partner at the table on any of the issues that may be raised by Access Northeast Energy or any other LNG facility. That was not done. This bill does not make them part of this process. There was an amendment brought in at the last minute talking about a six-month extension for any changes that might take place. That does not address the concerns of the municipal council or of the people of the Strait area that the Cabinet can sit here in Halifax and determine on its own what is going to be the tax rate.

Mr. Speaker, if this province is going to start using property assessment as an economic development tool, there needs to be a full and open discussion with all players before that is done. We all know that there are different programs available to the province, whether they be the payroll tax rebate and other initiatives which have been used in the past,

[Page 4163]

which have been used successfully. Why the government just suddenly decided that it's on assessments that they should focus is unclear. It's unclear to the municipal units impacted.

Mr. Speaker, there are ways for this government, even if this bill is unsuccessful to sit with Access Northeast Energy and negotiate on whatever issues are there. I am sure that if this government were to come forward and speak to the Richmond Municipal Council, Guysborough, myself, the member for Guysborough-Sheet Harbour, and the Strait area members and say, here's the deal we've made, we need to bring in legislation in the Fall to confirm our jurisdiction in doing so, I have no doubt that that bill would be supported. That's what should have been done on this bill. Had that been done, we may have had different results.

We're left to wonder, again in this case, is it something Access Northeast asked for, or is this just something the government has decided to come up with? We heard the representative from Imperial Oil come before us and say, we did not ask for this bill. We raised our concern with our assessment to the provincial government, the federal government, and then the provincial government called a few weeks later and said, here's the bill we have. Those were the specific comments. Clearly, that company did not even expect that they were going to have this sort of a break being given.

Mr. Speaker, from the minute this bill was tabled, we expressed reservations. We said that we were concerned about where it was going, and that unless it was amended significantly, it would probably not receive our support. The member for Halifax Atlantic first said this was a good bill, then the member for Halifax Atlantic said this bill should wait until the Fall, then the Leader of the NDP said we're going to move forward with the bill, then the member for Halifax Atlantic said no, we're going to wait until the Fall. Nova Scotians deserve to at least know, if this bill does go forward, why the NDP have suddenly decided that they should support this bill.

I can tell you the concern, as the member for Richmond, if an LNG facility coming to the Strait area is being told, upon arrival we will sit in Cabinet and negotiate your assessment, I assure you that the existing companies and any future companies will demand the same. I can tell you that in Richmond County, 30 per cent of our residents have basic water and sewer, 30 per cent, that's it. Now we're being told that possibly our assessment rates will be even lower and our revenue will be even lower. Is the answer to tell Richmond, well you had the second-lowest industrial rate in the province, and our means of congratulating you is to now force you to raise your assessment rate.

Mr. Speaker, that is unacceptable, and that is not what should be done here. There are means. Do we support assisting these companies? No doubt. I've met with Access Northeast Energy a number of times, and I look forward to meeting with them again, and give my full support to their proposal. But at this point, it's not even clear that they even requested such a thing from the province, yet the bill is thrown before us. Mr. Speaker, I can say as the

[Page 4164]

Energy Critic, when we look at the fact that gas prices are $1 for self-serve, we hear the Leader of the NDP, one day, say the windfall should be returned to Nova Scotians, then the member for Halifax Fairview says, well, no, if you return their revenue that means a cut in programs, what programs do you want to see cut, then the Leader of the NDP says (Interruptions) Well, read the paper, and then the member for Halifax Fairview will see his comments himself, when he asked what programs do we want to see cut, if we give back that revenue, and then his Leader says we should give back the revenue. When I heard the Leader of the NDP, I had to look quickly at him because at first I thought I was looking at the Esso tiger. (Laughter) But apparently that was not the case.

At the end of the day, Nova Scotians are paying $1 at the pumps in this province. This government has failed to do anything to relieve the pressure on Nova Scotia families, on poor Nova Scotians, on seniors who are looking for relief. The NDP at first said the 48-hour notice was a good plan, then suddenly they decided it wasn't such a good plan. For us, here today, to leave this House and say, we have done nothing as legislators to provide immediate relief to Nova Scotia drivers but, Nova Scotians, rest assured, we have given a sweetheart deal to the Imperial Oil Refinery, I think would be a disservice to all Nova Scotians.

I have a hard time believing how members such as the member for Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley can go see the truckers in his riding and say, I couldn't get you a break on the gas price, but guess what, we saved the oil refinery in Dartmouth by giving them your tax dollars that you pay in municipal taxes. I would be curious to see how that conversation goes with that member, who, even he, himself, said that his own Party's plan was unacceptable for Nova Scotians. So at the end of the day, that's why we have said this bill is not worthy of support at this time.

If we are going to use municipal assessment as an economic development tool, let us bring in the municipal players and inform them of how it will take place, and it's absolutely impossible to allow us as legislators to say that Cabinet should make this decision. In fact, the Leader of the NDP said he would not support the 48-hour notice on the gas bill, because he did not want to give Cabinet the regulatory powers.

[5:15 p.m.]

If that was the case for the gas bill, I urge him to use the same logic for this bill. Do not allow Cabinet to make sweetheart deals in the backrooms when the municipal units are left out in the cold. Municipalities deserve better, whether the NDP cares about municipal councils anymore, that's their choice. Let them at least remember the residents who live in those ridings, who pay their property taxes and who deserve to be part of the discussions taking place here and not be the victims of deals being cooked up here in Halifax without their approval, without even their knowledge. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

[Page 4165]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, I'm not going to take a long time on this. I couldn't help but noticing that the three people who the Liberals put up to speak on this, were the three ministers from one of the most discredited governments in the history of this province. They were three ministers who didn't care about municipal councils at all. When they brought forward the amalgamation bill, when they brought forward service exchange, they didn't care. It was going to bankrupt the County of Halifax. They didn't care about the Councils of Dartmouth, of Halifax, of Bedford. They didn't care, and they didn't consult. They just went right ahead and they did it. So to have them stand up today dripping with contradiction, is beyond me.

Let's be clear about what they're saying, because they're not saying that they're opposed to giving tax breaks to Esso. They're not saying that. They're saying that they just don't want to use this mechanism. They want to use some other mechanism. What really gets them, is the possibility - they don't know how we're going to vote - that we might be somehow in favour of addressing an assessment issue. That's what really sends them crazy.

Mr. Speaker, if I were to talk about an industry that was located in the member for Cape Breton South's riding and the possibility of closing down that industry, he would be outraged, and rightfully so. If I was to talk about what was going on in the member for Richmond's riding - and maybe he has a beef, the member for Richmond, because I remember being fairly critical of Rainbow Fisheries and their interference in that and Orenda Recip and many of the other handouts to boondoggles that they participated in when they were in government. I remember all too well.

Mr. Speaker, they come in here and they talk about, oh we're going to give back two cents a litre on gas, we should give back two cents a litre. In their minds, instead of 99.9, 97.9 is okay. Can you imagine? They say everything should be on the table, except regulation of course. Regulation's bad. That would be a bad thing. They have no credibility on this issue. They have no credibility when it comes to talking about the municipal assessment and municipal issues because they've trod all over municipal councils when they had the huge majority in here, when they didn't have to listen to anybody. Amalgamation, service exchange, (Interruption) I wasn't around, but I have to tell you I was on Dartmouth City Council at the time, I was there.

Mr. Speaker, I want to tell you something else. Some of those ministers came to Dartmouth City Council and we said, the City of Dartmouth, it works just fine. Why do you have to do away with it? I can tell you, down in the alderman's room, under the City Hall in Dartmouth they sat there, they looked at us and they said, well you know Dartmouth does work pretty well, but the polls say that people would be in favour of amalgamation. That's what they told us. I give them credit. They said it right to our face. They said the only reason we're going to do this is because the polls say it will be popular and we need something

[Page 4166]

because we are so low in the polls right now, we need something to get us up. So they went ahead with amalgamation. I want to tell you, that was the beginning of the end. They may find themselves in third place now, but they ain't seen nothing yet. They ain't seen nothing yet. (Applause)

This bill, like so many bills that come before the House, does not have two sides. Most political issues that come before the House have many sides, they have many sides and many perspectives. In this bill, our members sat down through (Interruption) I sat here while the member for Cape Breton South spoke. I listened to him. It didn't make much sense, but I listened to him.

Most of these issues have not one or two sides. They have many, many sides. This issue is one of those. If the member for Cape Breton South is right about anything, he's right about the fact that this is an industry that is located in the City of Dartmouth. It used to be that we had this one and we had Ultramar and there was Gulf in the Strait. The Imperial Oil Refinery is the only one left. If you want to talk about security of supply and you say to yourself, what are we going to do when that refinery goes, we're going to be hostage to Irving in New Brunswick. Are we going to do that?

That's one perspective on this, one that was expressed in our caucus. We looked at the bill and people said, what about the assessment issue? What about the fact that this is going to mean a new regime imposed upon the municipality? That was another discussion that took place in our caucus. People said, well, what about the working people and their families, the people who might be affected by this? That's another perspective that was shared over the course of the debate.

I think what the people of Nova Scotia want to know about the NDP caucus in this debate is that the men and women that they elected to come to this House did so with every bit of intention to serve them to the very best of their ability. The people in my caucus who engaged in this debate, they did so and they are going to be able to vote today on this bill and they are going to be proud of themselves. That's what they're going to do. (Applause)

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

MR. RUSSELL MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I rise to make a number of interventions on this particular reading of Bill No. 74 on third reading. Some very interesting and important issues are before us here today. One is with regard to the shift in tax policy. The tax on this facility with Bill No. 74 will see that the tax is changed to be based on the amount charged per barrel on the production in concert with the capacity of the facility. One of the most interesting things about that is that is a direct intervention on the traditional fair market value approach to tax assessment in this province which, by the way, would be challenged - and I don't mean that in the traditional sense that Beauchesne would refer to - but it would certainly be an issue in question by the Leader of the socialist Party as well as the

[Page 4167]

member for Halifax Chebucto who served on municipal councils on a previous day. They would see that as a complete affront to their responsibility under the Municipal Government Act.

The Leader of the NDP made reference to the hypocrisy of certain members in this House. First of all, we'll check the Rules of the House - that term in itself is unparliamentary. But let's leave it at that. He's expressed his opinion.

The Municipal Government Act which was brought in in 1999 by my colleague was brought in at the request of all 55 municipal governments in this province. One of the most interesting and important features of this particular piece of legislation is the 12-month rule (Interruption) He refers to is as Section 519, so he is aware of it. This particular piece of legislation throws that entire section of the Act out the window. How can he and members of the Progressive Conservative caucus, the government now, come in and completely oppose something that they supported on a previous date?

AN HON. MEMBER: You're making assumptions.

MR. MACKINNON: I am not making an assumption, I sat in this House when the decision was made and there was unanimous consent by all three Parties to support that 12-month rule. Not one vote of dissent, not even from the socialists on that particular issue. They were the ones that went on about consultation, consulting with all the important "stakeholders". I heard that word so many times from the NDP caucus, I thought there was a gramophone at the back of the room with a skip on the needle. (Interruptions) That's right, Mr. Speaker, even CDs skip and we've heard lots of evidence of that in just the last few hours.

The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities came in and they took issue with that imposition. What is the purpose of this relationship between the two levels of government if the provincial government, at will, is going to come in and throw everything out the window that has been negotiated, which has been discussed, which has been agreed to by both parties? I heard the Minister of Justice in Question Period yesterday say to have an agreement between two parties you have to have two parties, a joint relationship. And what are they doing here today? They're throwing that out the window. What is the value of the Municipal Government Act that took two years in the making, which received the unanimous support of every member in the House at that time, including the now Leader of the NDP? (Interruptions) Well, semantics.

I sat in on the Law Amendments Committee when the representative from Imperial Esso appeared and I asked that representative who made the first representation, was it Imperial Esso going to the provincial government, was it the provincial government going to Imperial Esso, or was it the municipal government going to the provincial government, or Esso going to the municipal government, or who approached who first and for what reasons,

[Page 4168]

and what options were on the table? We didn't get clarity on that. All we got was the fact that Imperial Esso expressed concern to both levels of government, they met and this was what they agreed on.

We, too, support the need for that refinery in this province, it generates jobs, it generates economic and social security for many families in this province and the community surrounding the refinery, it provides provincial taxes, it provides federal taxes, it provides municipal taxes. But when you start hitting one of the most regressive tax regimes in the province, which is that on property taxes - and we all know that provincial and federal taxes are rated on a sliding scale. The more you make the more you pay, the less you make the less you pay. But municipal taxes, unless you are going to start carving up the system on a piecemeal basis, which is what has been happening here in this session, if you don't have the money to pay, your property taxes are still there. So why should the individual residents in HRM be disadvantaged - and that's a fair argument - why should one corporation be given special treatment? Maybe there are compelling reasons as have been referred to, or inferred by the individual members, but we haven't seen the full substance of that argument.

[5:30 p.m.]

Why hasn't the provincial government used the economic development tools at its disposal? Is it because politically, Mr. Speaker, it would be unpopular to be seen subsidizing an oil company which is perceived to be gouging the consumers of Nova Scotia while the government does nothing but just waffle? I think it's unfair. You talk about the working families. You talk about the people who need help, the families that are struggling. They don't need a 48-hour notice, they need help. They need relief and they're not getting it from this government.

The member for Dartmouth North would be the first to stand and revel at any government, or any member, that would bring in such a tax measure that's regressive and I'm very surprised that he hasn't spoken on this issue. I'm very surprised that the Leader of the NDP is the only one who seems to be putting a front on here. That's very concerning, Mr. Speaker, very concerning for all stakeholders. The member for Hants East thinks this is a funny matter, but it's not.

AN HON. MEMBER: Let's get to the vote.

MR. MACKINNON: He says let's get to the vote, forget about democracy. Well, Mr. Speaker, I don't see it that way. I don't see it that way and he may think it's funny, but when people's taxes are going up, when the cost of gasoline is going up, well, if this is what this Legislature has come to, then I say that's a sad, sad commentary on the principles of responsible government and the democratic process. Is this what has evolved after 250 years, is this what Joseph Howe would say, to listen to that type of diatribe? I don't think so.

[Page 4169]

Mr. Speaker, this is a very serious matter. Yes, the representative from Imperial Esso came and he said we never specifically asked for a tax rebate. Well, why is the Premier and the Minister of Energy and representatives from the provincial government downloading this onto the municipality? They represent, it's unanimous, it's unanimous at Halifax Regional Municipality Council. (Interruption) Oh, so the minister is saying it isn't, but he hasn't identified the dissenting vote. So now we're operating by consensus, anonymous consensus, that's the way this government is now operating. He's now calling into question the integrity of the chief magistrate for the Halifax Regional Municipality who speaks for all taxpayers.

Mr. Speaker, is it little wonder that the public record will show that the relationship between the various levels of government has deteriorated. The record will show that the level of co-operation between this government and the other two levels of government has deteriorated and particularly the federal government more so than anything else. The most substantial decline, according to the latest statistics, in the ability of this government to co-operate with other levels of government, is that with the federal government and now they're going to jump on the municipal government. Maybe they're afraid of the mayor. Maybe they're afraid that he may be the next Leader for the Tory Party, so this could be a pre-emptive strike. Maybe they see him as a threat to their philosophical approach to public policy and this is just one of those measures. I think this is amazing.

Why haven't those members stood up? Why aren't they saying anything? Because it will impact on Hants County, Colchester County, Cape Breton County, Cumberland County, Lunenburg, Queens, and you can go on and on. We're concerned about the jobs at the refinery. The Premier made that point of how important it was to keep that refinery going today, but what are the other options? Why isn't the provincial government doing something? Why download? Was it that politically unpopular to come out and be seen as helping one of the big oil giants, who have record profits? The only other corporations that make more money than the oil companies are the banks, and they won't even do anything about that. They're the only large institutions in the province that don't pay workers' compensation premiums. Why not? Have they snuggled that far up with the big corporations?

And I can't believe the socialists. The socialists now standing up for big corporations. I remember a day in this House, Mr. Speaker, when their own Party policy was no corporate donations from large corporations. Now they have lost their philosophical identity. They have lost their philosophical identity, and you can't even find what their philosophy is when you check on their Web site. There is no basis in fact for the philosophy of the provincial socialist Party in Nova Scotia. They keep referring to Saskatchewan, they keep referring to Manitoba and so on. Yes, Saskatchewan. Do you know what the philosophy is in Saskatchewan? To eradicate every evidence of capitalism that you can find. That's essentially what they say. But they don't say that when they stand up and revel here in the House.

[Page 4170]

But beware, Mr. Speaker, beware. There are some very wise and reasoned people in Nova Scotia who are able to define what a Party stands for and what the demagoguery is all about. They will not be fooled. Yes, they want co-operation from all three Parties, yes, they don't want to be running to the polls, and yes to a whole lot of other things, but they say no to giving special favours to large corporations that can afford to pay, when we've got tens and tens of thousands of small families in Nova Scotia that can't afford to buy a grocery order on a regular basis, that can't afford to pay their oil bill, their telephone bill, their light bill.

Mr. Speaker, they need help, and what's this government doing? They are now forcing more regressive tax measures on the taxpayers of the Halifax Regional Municipality. Where's the member for Dartmouth North now? Why isn't he standing up for all those he champions for? What about the member for Halifax Fairview? Where's all this altruism for the common folk? It seems to have vanished.

AN HON. MEMBER: Kreskin. He's Kreskin now. He predicts the future.

MR. MACKINNON: Well, he may think he's Kreskin, but he's got a long way to go. If the provincial government and, in particular, if the Premier wanted to really do something for Imperial Esso to help maintain those jobs, the question I would ask is what discussions did the Premier or the Minister of Energy or the Minister of Economic Development have with their federal counterparts? What discussions took place? Can they identify? Was there any collaborative effort, like there was in terms of the post-Panamax situation, or any other large initiatives?

We haven't heard that. Maybe that should have been the economic development approach to this, because we know, with the new environmental regulations that will require the refinery to upgrade to meet the environmental standards, it will cost money. Yes, we have to be mindful of that. But if we're going to take this approach, then the argument that was put forth by the member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley goes squarely out the window, because we will not be able to meet the environmental objectives that she has put before this House on a number of occasions by doing what we're doing here today. We cannot do it, because it's so regressive.

I'm disappointed because every day, just about, when we're here in Question Period, what's the theme from this government? It's the federal government's fault, we need more money from the federal government. The federal government didn't do this, the federal government didn't do that - if the sun didn't come out today, it's the federal government's fault.

AN HON. MEMBER: Now there's no leadership at the municipal level.

[Page 4171]

MR. MACKINNON: Now the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations is saying that the municipal governments, UNSM has not been able to provide the leadership required. Well, I dare say, that a lot of those municipal politicians will have something to say in the near future.

Why didn't the Premier, the chief magistrate for this province, go to Ottawa with the Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality and representatives from Imperial Esso and see if some kind of an arrangement could be made, to see that all stakeholders were accommodated? If it's that important, why download on the municipal taxpayers? Many who can't afford it. (Interruption)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member for Cape Breton West has the floor.

MR. MACKINNON: It's obvious that the government has made up its mind, the socialists have compromised on a very important philosophical principle, which is just amazing. Is it that important that they be perceived to be so mainstream that they will compromise on every issue? This is very dangerous.

It is important, Mr. Speaker, when we've seen what happened with some of the governments over the years, particularly under the Buchanan Administration and maybe going back to the William Harrington Administration and perhaps even further - some rather very questionable activities under majority governments, and sometimes I do believe minority governments do provide the checks and balances on some very fundamental and vital issues and matters of public policy. But this is weak; this is weak-kneed and wrong-headed. I'm surprised that that's the best that we can get from Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Telling people look, you have two full days to go fill up your oil tank or your gas tank because the price may go, up or it will go up.

Mr. Speaker, I have had more calls saying that that was perhaps one of the most simplistic - well, I've heard other adjectives but I won't use them . . .

AN HON. MEMBER: Moronic, the one I heard.

MR. MACKINNON: Wrong-headed - I'll be kind - wrong-headed public policy suggestions we've ever heard.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully submit that this is just another piece of evidence of a government willing to make a deal at any cost for power. They didn't have to do it, because there were other options available. Thank you.

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

The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I will be brief. A lot has been said about this bill, both here in the Chamber and in the media. I'm being encouraged to be brief but I do want to point out a couple of points as to what this bill will actually do.

This bill will level the playing field for a Nova Scotia LNG plant with other jurisdictions in the area, Mr. Speaker. The comments made by the member for Richmond are untrue. Richmond County Council supports this piece of legislation and they support having a level playing field. (Interruptions) I spoke to the warden myself and I spoke to council and that council is very supportive of this direction; in fact, that council came to us, along with the councils for Port Hawkesbury, Guysborough, as well Mulgrave came to our caucus and asked us to make sure that we did what we could to level the playing field with other jurisdictions, so that LNG plant could be located in their region. I think that's leadership and I appreciate them for that. (Applause)

What does this bill do? In addition to that, this bill will limit the tax increases paid by one of the most important parts of our economy, Mr. Speaker. It does not reduce the taxes for Imperial Oil, it limits the increase - that's clear, that's all that it does. It provides that Imperial Oil plant, or any plant like that, a level playing field with its competing jurisdictions in the area.

This bill protects 220 jobs, $23 million in payroll. It protects Nova Scotia's supply of fuel, Mr. Speaker. Our government believed it was necessary to do something about this. We couldn't stand by like others did and watch another plant like that, another refinery leave the province, this is our last one. We believed it's important to protect our supply of fuel for the entire Province of Nova Scotia. Having said that, I'm glad to move third reading of this bill.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 74. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

A recorded vote is being called for.

Ring the bells.

[5:46 p.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

MR. SPEAKER: Are the Whips satisfied?

[Page 4173]

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[5:51 p.m.]

YEAS NAYS

Mr. Clarke Ms. Massey

Mr. Morse Mr. MacDonnell

Mr. Rodney MacDonald Mr. Corbett

Mr. Russell Mr. Dexter

Dr. Hamm Mr. Manning MacDonald

Mr. Baker Mr. Gaudet

Mr. Muir Mr. MacKinnon

Mr. Christie Ms. Whalen

Mr. Fage Mr. Colwell

Mr. MacIsaac Mr. Glavine

Ms. Bolivar-Getson Mr. Gerald Sampson

Mr. D'Entremont Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay)

Mr. Hurlburt Mr. Michel Samson

Mr. Barnett Mr. Steele

Mr. Morash Ms. More

Mr. Taylor Mr. Parker

Mr. DeWolfe Ms. Raymond

Mr. Dooks Mr. Gosse

Mr. Chisholm Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid)

Mr. Langille Mr. Estabrooks

Mr. Hines Mr. Theriault

Mr. O'Donnell

Mr. Chataway

Mr. Parent

Mr. Deveaux

THE CLERK: For, 25. Against, 21

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. RONALD RUSSELL: Mr. Speaker, perhaps we could recess until 6:00 p.m.

[Page 4174]

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[5:54 p.m. The House recessed.]

[6:03 p.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

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

MR. SPEAKER: Let her Honour enter the Chamber, please.

All rise.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[The Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Myra Freeman, preceded by her escort, and by Mr. Noel Knockwood, Sergeant-at-Arms, bearing the Mace, entered the House of Assembly Chamber. The Lieutenant Governor then took her seat on the Throne.

The Sergeant-at-Arms then departed and re-entered the Chamber followed by the Speaker, the Honourable Murray Scott; the Chief Clerk of the House, Roderick MacArthur, Q.C.; Assistant Clerk, Arthur Fordham, Q.C.; and Assistant Clerk, Neil Ferguson.

The Speaker, with the Sergeant-at-Arms on his right and the Clerk on his left, took up his position at the foot of the Speaker's Table.]

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: It is the wish of Her Honour that the ladies and gentlemen be seated.

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

THE CLERK:

Bill No. 17 - Youth Secretariat Act.

Bill No. 26 - Health Protection Act.

Bill No. 40 - Assessment Act.

[Page 4175]

Bill No. 46 - Public Service Act.

Bill No. 48 - Education Act.

Bill No. 49 - Mi'kmaq Education Act.

Bill No. 50 - Credit Union Act.

Bill No. 51 - Provincial Acadian Day Act.

Bill No. 54 - Saint Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church Incorporation Act.

Bill No. 55 - Lenihan (Municipality of the District of Chester) Retiring Allowance Act.

Bill No. 56 - Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters Act.

Bill No. 57 - Cemetery and Funeral Services Act.

Bill No. 58 - Mechanics' Lien Act.

Bill No. 60 - Antigonish Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company Act.

Bill No. 61 - Theatres and Amusements Act.

Bill No. 62 - Financial Measures (2004) Act.

Bill No. 67 - House of Assembly Act.

Bill No. 68 - International Interests in Mobile Aircraft Equipment Act.

Bill No. 69 - United Way of Halifax Region Act.

Bill No. 70 - Municipal Law Amendment (2004) Act.

Bill No. 73 - Justice Administration Amendment (2004) Act.

Bill No. 74 - Oil Refineries and L.N.G. Plants Municipal Taxation Act.

THE LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR:

In Her Majesty's name, I assent to these Bills.

[Page 4176]

MR. SPEAKER: Your Honour, having been graciously pleased to give your Assent to the Bills passed during the present Session, it becomes my agreeable duty on behalf of Her Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects, Her faithful Commons of Nova Scotia, to present to Your Honour a bill for the Appropriation of Supply granted in the present Session for the support of the Public Service and to request Your Honour's Assent thereto.

THE CLERK:

Bill No. 78 - An Act to Provide for Defraying Certain Charges and Expenses of the Public Service of the Province.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR:

In Her Majesty's name, I thank Her loyal subjects, I accept their benevolence and I Assent to this Bill.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[The Lieutenant-Governor left the Chamber.]

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: His Honour, the Speaker.

[The Speaker took the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER: I would ask all honourable members to please join with me in the singing of the national anthem.

[The national anthem was sung by the members.]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. Please be seated.

The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker and members of the House of Assembly, I move that this Assembly be now adjourned, to meet again at the call of the Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The House is adjourned until the call of the Speaker. (Applause)

[6:12 p.m. The House adjourned.]

[Page 4177]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 1997

By: Hon. Kerry Morash (Environment and Labour)

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

Whereas Lauchie MacLeod, who served for several years as President of the Cape Breton Injured Workers' Association, passed away on May 20th; and

Whereas Mr. MacLeod made a significant contribution to injured workers and to the workers' compensation system in this province, not only through his work with the association, but also in assisting with significant changes to the legislation regarding supplementary benefits; and

Whereas Mr. MacLeod was respected by all members of this House for his reasoned approach to implementing changes to the system;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend to his wife, Joan our sympathies and thanks for his years of valuable service to Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1998

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas 300 students showcased their projects at this year's Tri-County District School Board Regional Heritage Fair; and

Whereas Carleton Consolidated School Grade 6 student Cara Allen was named runner-up at the fair for her project on the old Imperial Hotel in Kemptville, Yarmouth County; and

Whereas other awards were presented to Lauren Mood of Carleton Consolidated School, Cody Robicheau, Kristen Hurlburt and Dustin Boudreau of South Centennial School, and Barbara Deveau of Yarmouth Junior High School;

[Page 4178]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate all the winners at this year's Tri-County District School Board Regional Heritage Fair, and recognize the outstanding efforts of all the participants.

RESOLUTION NO. 1999

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the 92 Chebogue Sea Cadets Corps hosted 150 former members this past weekend as part of their 60th Anniversary celebrations; and

Whereas the group is open to individuals between the ages of 12 and 19 who wish to learn about seamanship; and

Whereas the corps is currently led by Lt. (N) Gerald Muise and has 32 members, with 14 new cadets signed up for next year;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate all current and former members of the 92 Chebogue Sea Cadets Corps on their 60th Anniversary, and extend to them our best wishes for at least 60 more years of success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2000

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Yarmouth County 4-H members represented their county well at the recent 4-H weekend held in Truro; and

Whereas the Yarmouth team came second in the woodsmen competition; and

Whereas Yarmouth's Adam Churchill was selected to attend the Dairy Conference in Madison, Wisconsin, this Fall;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate all the participants in this year's 4-H weekend, and wish them continued success in their future endeavours.

[Page 4179]

RESOLUTION NO. 2001

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Energy)

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

Whereas Dan McFadyen moved to our beautiful province in August 2002, from a long and distinguished career in Western Canada, to become Nova Scotia's first Deputy Minister of Energy; and

Whereas Dan McFadyen has spent the past two years working diligently to solidify the Province of Nova Scotia as a force in the global oil and gas marketplace, and working with the private sector companies to bring investment and jobs to Nova Scotians; and

Whereas Mr. McFadyen's departure will create a difficult void to fill, and he will be missed by his Nova Scotia colleagues and friends;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House commend Dan McFadyen and thank him for his outstanding work on developing our energy sector, and on his commitment and dedication to the Department of Energy and to this province.

RESOLUTION NO. 2002

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Energy)

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

Whereas at the outset of 2004, Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce President John Nash outlined publicly the many positives emerging in the local economy, including the new leadership at UCCB, the planned relocation of the Spiegel Group Call Centre to New Waterford, and the emerging importance of a number of existing companies like Tesma, DynaGen, Techlink International; and

Whereas he noted positive partnerships at various levels are helping to enhance the Glace Bay downtown renewal, the Membertou First Nations' economic growth, and the creation of Destination Cape Breton as a single voice for the area tourism industry and others; and

[Page 4180]

Whereas since his comments there has also been the joint federal/provincial announcement moving forward on the Sydney Tar Ponds cleanup, once again proving Mr. Nash's prediction that "when the governments at various levels, agencies and the private sector come together, good things can happen";

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House applaud the positive outlook as expressed by the head of the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce, and encourage officials at all levels to continue to work together so that these examples of co-operation and economic renewal for the CBRM are just a sign of even more positive things to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 2003

By: Hon. Rodney MacDonald (Tourism, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Strait-Highlands Regional Development Agency was to select a female candidate to represent the Strait Area at the Lieutenant Governor's symposium Women and Leadership: Helping Nova Scotia Grow; and

Whereas the Lieutenant Governor's symposium, Women and Leadership: Helping Nova Scotia Grow, provides 100 young women from across Nova Scotia the great opportunity to share and learn from other business and community leaders; and

Whereas the Strait-Highlands Regional Development Agency selected Ms. Tanya Felix to represent the Strait Area at this symposium;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Ms. Tanya Felix with her leadership style and talent for communicating complex ideas, combined with her commitment to hard work, surely make her an asset to her community and to all of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 2004

By: Hon. Rodney MacDonald (Tourism, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas golf enthusiasts often play their whole life and never get a hole-in-one; and

[Page 4181]

Whereas four years ago 17-year-old Allie Praught of Dartmouth got a hole-in-one on the Brightwood course; and

Whereas this past weekend she got her second hole-in-one at River Oaks;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Allie Praught for achieving not once but twice, a goal that will continue to elude me and practically every other golfer I know.

RESOLUTION NO. 2005

By: Hon. Kerry Morash (Environment and Labour)

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

Whereas citizens of Nova Scotia are recognizing the importance of healthy living, especially for younger people; and

Whereas four Queen County residents, Gene Wong, Mike Anthony, Dan Callaghan and Jocelyn Marshall have been working for almost two years to design a proposal for a new multi-purpose centre in Liverpool; and

Whereas the proposed 144,000-square-foot facility would cost approximately $20 million to complete and would include an arena, a gym, a skating rink, a curling rink, an aquatics centre, a running track, and convention facilities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the four people who worked so diligently to plan this multi-purpose centre, and wish them luck as they continue to work with the community to turn their ideas into reality.

RESOLUTION NO. 2006

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the bowlers representing the Carleton Volunteer Fire Department have won the Maritime Firefighters' Candlepin Bowling Tournament for the second year in a row; and

[Page 4182]

Whereas team members Wayne White, Mary Ann Miller, Don White, Bernie Miller and Danny Henniger won their division against teams from Sussex, Cobequid, Bible Hill and continued to win in a crossover playoff; and

Whereas the Yarmouth team consisting of Louise Amirault, Paul Comeau, Midge Hodgerson, Gerald Thibideau and Hank Nickerson was the consolation winner for the second year in a row;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the Carleton Volunteer Fire Department on winning the Maritime Firefighters' Candlepin Bowling Tournament and recognize all the fine participants in this event.

RESOLUTION NO. 2007

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas a new bookstore has opened in Yarmouth staffed by clients of the Yarmouth Association for Community Residential Options; and

Whereas YACRO's mandate is to provide community residential alternatives to those who are mentally and physically challenged and is taking this mandate one step further with the creation of Shanty Enterprises bookstore; and

Whereas members of YACRO hope that the new business will provide 14 worthwhile jobs for their clients;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the Yarmouth Association for Community Residential Options on the opening of Shanty Enterprises and wish them much success in this new endeavour.

RESOLUTION NO. 2008

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Dr. Ina Cumming's Palliative Care Bursary is awarded annually to a Nova Scotia physician to help them further their knowledge in palliative care pain and symptom management; and

[Page 4183]

Whereas Yarmouth family physician Dr. Shelagh Leahey has received this $3,000 bursary; and

Whereas Dr. Leahey has agreed to become one of the South West Health physician experts in palliative care and will play an integral role in the development of the area's palliative care program;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Dr. Shelagh Leahey on receiving the Dr. Ina Cumming's Palliative Care Bursary and recognize her commitment to improving the quality of life for those suffering with terminal illnesses.

RESOLUTION NO. 2009

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the South West Health Palliative Care Working Group has donated a series of books to the Western Counties Regional Library that deal with the difficult task of talking to children about death; and

Whereas these books include children's picture books, books for teens and resources for parents and teachers; and

Whereas the working group includes representatives from Yarmouth, Shelburne and Digby Counties and provides support and education to frontline workers and the public in dealing with the terminally ill;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize the ongoing contributions of the South West Health Palliative Care Working Group to those who are living with terminal illnesses and thank them for their donation of books to the Western Counties Regional Library.

RESOLUTION NO. 2010

By: Hon. Rodney MacDonald (Tourism, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas Dr. Mark Bennett and Nurse Practitioner Mary Anderson are recipients of the Cape Breton District Health Authority's Health Care Provider of the Year Award; and

[Page 4184]

Whereas their collaborative practice team that delivers care and service to the people in the Inverness area is the first of its kind in the district; and

Whereas their exemplary service has contributed to improved access to health services, as well as increased knowledge of health issues in the community;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Dr. Bennett and Ms. Anderson on their achievement and their continuing commitment to innovation in health care and improvement of the overall health of their community.

RESOLUTION NO. 2011

By: Hon. Kerry Morash (Environment and Labour)

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

Whereas the Bowater Mersey Paper Company Limited and their over 400 employees are celebrating their 75th Anniversary of operations in Nova Scotia this year; and

Whereas several events have been planned to mark Bowater Mersey's diamond anniversary including an open house on company lands in St. Margaret's Bay and a trails day at the Port L'Hebert Pocket Wilderness in Queens County; and

Whereas for 75 years Bowater Mersey has been a model corporate citizen in this province, currently employing hundreds of Nova Scotians, donating thousands of acres to the Nature Conservancy of Canada and assisting private landowners through Bowater's Sustainable Forest Management Program for Small Private Forest Land Program;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the Bowater Mersey team as they celebrate their 75th Anniversary in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 2012

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Speaker)

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

Whereas Stephen Dobson and Andrew Moore, both residents of Springhill, were rescuers this week when they were fishing at Simpsons Lake; and

[Page 4185]

Whereas Stephen and Andrew were fishing in their own boat when they spotted another boat that had overturned and the two men who were occupants struggling to keep afloat; and

Whereas Stephen Dobson and Andrew Moore rescued the two men who were quoted as saying, "Thank God for these two boys.";

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Stephen Dobson and Andrew Moore on their bravery and quick thinking that brought these men to safety and wish them all the best in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 2013

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Speaker)

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

Whereas Fred Smith will be honoured on May 26, 2004 at a dinner/buffet at the Stowaway Restaurant in Parrsboro; and

Whereas Fred is being honoured by the Southampton, Parrsboro, Advocate and Region Health Board upon his retirement after eight years of serving with the SPAR group; and

Whereas for most of the eight years of service, Fred was the Chairperson for the SPAR group, leading the discussion and work on many health-related issues that affect the residents of Cumberland County;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Fred Smith for his years of dedicated service to the Southampton, Parrsboro, Advocate and Region Health Board and we wish him all the best in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 2014

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Human Resources)

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

Whereas appreciating our history is important to making decisions about our future; and

[Page 4186]

Whereas having knowledge of past historical events is important to past, present and future generations; and

Whereas a group of Bridgewater High School students recently won silver medals in the Royal Canadian Legion "Call to Remembrance" competition;

Therefore be it resolved that recognition be extended to coach David Bolivar-MacDow, Stewart Rand, Steven George, Fiona Cushing-Allan and Michael Breau of Bridgewater High School for their participation in the "Call to Remembrance" competition and to the Royal Canadian Legion for their sponsorship.

RESOLUTION NO. 2015

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Human Resources)

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

Whereas sports and recreation activities are so important to having good health; and

Whereas participating in sports and recreational activities is encouraged for all age levels; and

Whereas four members of the Parkview Education Centre wrestling team recently won the bronze medals at the 2004 championships;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Ben Whynot, Blair Forward, Scott Hughes and Ashley Wamboldt for their active involvement and achievements in their chosen sport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2016

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Human Resources)

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

Whereas cadet corps training provides very valuable training for youth; and

Whereas such training develops life skills that help youth to assume leadership roles; and

[Page 4187]

Whereas Bridgewater and Area Kinsmen Cadets have passed the National Star Certification Examination which allows them to teach younger cadets;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend congratulations to Cadets Sgt. Jamie Whynot, Master Corporal Victoria Eisener, Sgt. Jason Greek, Warrant Officers Becky Herman and Jonathan Hunter who passed the National Star Certification Examination.

RESOLUTION NO. 2017

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Human Resources)

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

Whereas our children are our greatest hope for our future; and

Whereas volunteers like Big Brothers/Big Sisters provide wonderful support for children; and

Whereas volunteers raised $30,609 this year through Bowl for Kids Sake in support of Big Brothers/Big Sisters;

Therefore be it resolved that all volunteers who support the work of the Lunenburg and Queens Counties Big Brothers/Big Sisters receive our heartfelt thanks.

RESOLUTION NO. 2018

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Human Resources)

Whereas Sue Smith, a physical education teacher at Hebbville Academy, Lunenburg County, has demonstrated throughout her career that she is a master teacher; and

Whereas Sue Smith has contributed significantly to the sports program at the Hebbville school through countless hours of coaching in a variety of sports during her 35-plus years of teaching; and

Whereas Sue Smith was recently honoured by the Nova Scotia School Athletic Federation with the Dorothy G. Walker Distinguished Service Award;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House thank Sue Smith for her contributions to Nova Scotia youth and wish her well upon her retirement.

[Page 4188]

RESOLUTION NO. 2019

By: Mr. Brooke Taylor (Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley)

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

Whereas at present 28,000 Nova Scotians are living with cancer today while 5,000 more will be diagnosed throughout 2004; and

Whereas a medical researcher and his partner at Dalhousie University have discovered a new form of cell division which could radically change the treatment of cancer and potentially lead to the prevention of this horrendous disease; and

Whereas Rengaswami Rajarman and Duane Guernsey captured the birth of a cancer cell using a computerized video time-lapse microscope, revealing cancer happening in large cells instead of a normal cell when it sustains DNA damage;

Therefore be it resolved that Professors Rajarman and Guernsey be recognized by all Nova Scotians for their ongoing research in cancer biology and for having their discovery findings published in the February edition of Cancer Biology and Therapy.

RESOLUTION NO. 2020

By: Mr. Mark Parent (Kings North)

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

Whereas a newspaper only enhances itself to the buyer with some special sections, which includes colour; and

Whereas it takes talented individuals to use spot colour and the computer mechanisms necessary for the job; and

Whereas Grant Fawcett of the Digby Courier placed third out of 26 entries for Best Use of Spot Colour for a community weekly at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards banquet held last weekend in Truro;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs congratulate Grant on his award and wish him every success with future endeavours in his profession.

[Page 4189]

RESOLUTION NO. 2021

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Energy)

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

Whereas a 100th birthday is a remarkable milestone that cannot go without recognition; and

Whereas lifelong Sydney Mines resident, Adline Purves, celebrated her 100th birthday on March 27th of this year; and

Whereas Ms. Purves was a dedicated educator for 45 years, holding the positions of vice-principal and principal of Sydney Mines High and was Nova Scotia's first female superintendent of schools;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend our best wishes to Adline Purves on the occasion of her 100th birthday and wish her many more happy and healthy years ahead.

RESOLUTION NO. 2022

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Energy)

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

Whereas students at Memorial Composite High School in Sydney Mines recently had an opportunity to view an informative video on the variety of career opportunities that the oil and gas industry provides; and

Whereas Memorial's vocational programs provide its students with many of the skill sets that are sought after by the oil and gas industry, such as electrical and plumbing skills, as well as cooking;

Whereas returning graduate, Dawn Wilson, and Grade 10 students, Josh Osmond and Natasha Harrietha, were three individuals who expressed interest in careers in the energy sector;

[Page 4190]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House recognize the many career opportunities that the energy sector provides in this province and around the world and recognize the valuable work the teachers at Memorial Composite High School in Sydney Mines are doing to prepare our young people to take advantage of these opportunities.

RESOLUTION NO. 2023

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Energy)

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

Whereas the Sydney Mines and District Community Centre is a non-profit organization run by 12 volunteer board members, providing a wide range of activities and events, including skating, hockey, concerts, dances and bingo; and

Whereas the strong support of the community and the local Kinsmen Club's hard work made this facility a reality; and

Whereas this year the Sydney Mines and District Community Centre celebrates its 30th Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize the 30th Anniversary of the Sydney Mines and District Community Centre and express our appreciation to the many men and women who have given their time and money to support this very worthwhile facility.

RESOLUTION NO. 2024

By: Hon. James Muir (Education)

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

Whereas the Farmers Dairy Truro Cheese Division achieved top awards at the 76th annual Central Ontario Cheesemakers Association Convention and British Empire Cheese Show; and

Whereas 15 to 20 companies compete annually, making this show the largest national display of Canadian and international cheeses; and

[Page 4191]

Whereas Farmers Dairy won the J.I. Irwin Memorial Trophy for the highest scoring cheese in the August cheddar class and the Winchester Cheese Cold Storage Award for the highest scoring marble cheeses;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Farmers Dairy Truro Cheese Division on their awards and wish them continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025

By: Hon. James Muir (Education)

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

Whereas Shauna Blois is a native of Old Barns and a fourth year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine student at the Atlantic Veterinary College; and

Whereas Shauna Blois competed against students from 24 other veterinary schools across North America and brought home the top prize from the Nestle Purina Pet Care Competition in Florida; and

Whereas this is the second year for the competition and Atlantic Veterinary College students have won both years;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Shauna Blois on her win and the Atlantic Veterinary College on its continued success in producing the highest ranked veterinarian student in North America.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026

By: Hon. James Muir (Education)

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

Whereas the CEC Cobequid Cougars boys basketball team won the Mainland Athletics Conference championship with a victory over the Horton Griffins; and

Whereas the Cougars posted a 3-0 record at the eight team championships, defeating Yarmouth 90-56 and Avon View 76-59 before their final game with the Griffins; and

[Page 4192]

Whereas with the Cougars down 54-53, Ryan Lebans knocked down a 3-pointer with only 41 seconds left and Adam Jewkes sank two free throws in the last five seconds to seal the victory;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the Cobequid Cougars boys basketball team on winning the Mainland Athletics Conference Division 1 Crown.

RESOLUTION NO. 2027

By: Hon. James Muir (Education)

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

Whereas three research projects at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College received more than $450,000 in awards from the Nova Scotia Research and Innovation Trust funding on March 24, 2004; and

Whereas the Integrated Agricultural Air and Water Quality Management project lead by Dr. Gordon, and The Expanding Infrastructure Capabilities of the Cropping Systems Research Program under Dr. Jeliazkov, and The Poultry Science Food Safety and Meat Quality Research Facilities project under Dr. Rathgeber all received provincial funding; and

Whereas air, water, crop research, food safety and meat quality are important for the future health and well-being of Nova Scotians;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the Agricultural College and their project leaders for their innovative approach, technology development and environmental management research.

RESOLUTION NO. 2028

By: Hon. James Muir (Education)

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

Whereas the Bank of Nova Scotia opened its Truro branch on February 5, 1904; and

Whereas the 100th Anniversary was celebrated at the Inglis Place Scotiabank in Truro on February 20, 2004; and

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Whereas the first site was purchased in 1907 and a new building was constructed in 1997;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the Truro Scotiabank branch for a century of service to the community and wish it continued success in their next 100 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 2029

By: Hon. James Muir (Education)

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

Whereas the United Way of Colchester County exceeded its goal by raising more than $257,000 in their 2003 campaign; and

Whereas a gala celebration of the success of the campaign took place on Saturday, March 6th, at the Best Western Glengarry in Truro; and

Whereas the 2003 fundraising year was the most successful in nearly 50 years for the United Way of Colchester County;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the United Way of Colchester County on their banner financial campaign and wish it continued success in their fundraising efforts in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 2030

By: Hon. Michael Baker (Justice)

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

Whereas the Lunenburg Progress-Enterprise and Lighthouse Log are well-read community newspapers and are available to help in the community whenever called upon; and

Whereas the newspapers' staff works diligently to publish weekly issues of the Enterprise and Log to keep local readers well-informed; and

Whereas Bernadette Jordan and Barbara Wentzel writing in the Log, placed third out of 26 entries for the Best Overall Ad at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards Banquet held last weekend in Truro;

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Therefore be it resolved that MLAs applaud the creative design of both Barbara and Bernadette and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2031

By: Hon. Michael Baker (Justice)

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

Whereas a newspaper only enhances itself to the buyer with some special sections which capture the eye of the reader; and

Whereas it takes talented individuals to create these special sections; and

Whereas the staff at the Lunenburg Progress-Enterprise and Lighthouse Log placed first out of 25 entries for having The Best Special Section for a community weekly at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards Banquet held last weekend in Truro;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs congratulate staff on their award and wish them every success with future endeavours in their profession.

RESOLUTION NO. 2032

By: Hon. Michael Baker (Justice)

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

Whereas William Roblee has held the position of teacher at Riverport and District Elementary and principal at Gold River-Western Shore Elementary, Blockhouse Elementary, Hebbville Elementary, Lunenburg Academy, and Lunenburg Junior-Senior High School; and

Whereas William Roblee has been a volunteer coach of basketball, soccer, volleyball, and an avid runner who has promoted healthy living to his students, and competed in 70 marathons; and

Whereas William Roblee spearheaded the Pumpkin Patrol which partnered school, community, and law enforcement to promote a safe and responsible Halloween celebration in the Town of Lunenburg, which demonstrates the high quality of leadership he has shown to his students through good times and challenging times over the past 13 years he has been principal at Lunenburg Junior Senior High School;

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Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Mr. William Roblee on his contributions to the students and communities he has served over the past 33 years, and wish him well in his retirement from public school administration.

RESOLUTION NO. 2033

By: Hon. Michael Baker (Justice)

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

Whereas David Parks of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, will be celebrating his 65th birthday on May 22nd; and

Whereas David had a long and respected career as an insurance agent with Lunenburg Insurance; and

Whereas David was very involved with St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Lunenburg and was the organist for many years;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly wish David Parks all the best as he celebrates with his family and many friends on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

RESOLUTION NO. 2034

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Vanguard is an established biweekly community newspaper enjoyed by thousands of people; and

Whereas the Vanguard, on a regular basis, puts forth exceptional quality, second to no one; and

Whereas no better example of this was shown this past weekend at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards Banquet in Truro, when the Vanguard's Andrea Rondeau and Tina Comeau both placed first: Tina for having the Best Feature Series out of 17 entries and Andrea for taking the Best Feature Photo out of 64 entries; and Andrea also placed second for having the Best Investigative Story out of 25 entries, while Alain Meuse placed second for the Best Specialty Column out of 27 entries;

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Therefore be it resolved that MLAs commend Tina Comeau, Andrea Rondeau and Alain Meuse for their diligent work ethic, while wishing them every success in writing more exceptional stories and shooting many more award-winning photos.

RESOLUTION NO. 2035

By: Hon. Rodney MacDonald (Tourism, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas The Reporter newspaper is read by thousands in the Port Hawkesbury and surrounding areas and is available to help in the community whenever called upon; and

Whereas The Reporter won four separate awards at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards Banquet held last weekend in Truro; and

Whereas the combined staff of The Reporter placed third for General Excellence in the Class 1 category of newspapers and for the best Special Section for a community newspaper, while reporters Christine MacDonald and John Webster were individually recognized: Christine placed second for having the Best General Interest Column out of 43 entries, and John Webster placed third for having the Best Cartoon;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs applaud the creative design of both Christine and John and the entire staff at The Reporter in Port Hawkesbury, and wish them nothing but continued success in their careers.

RESOLUTION NO. 2036

By: Hon. Rodney MacDonald (Tourism, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas it takes talented individuals to publish a weekly newspaper that grabs the attention of the public on a continuing weekly basis; and

Whereas the Inverness Oran is a highly read publication, with thousands of readers in Northern Inverness County and elsewhere in Cape Breton; and

Whereas at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards Banquet held last weekend in Truro the Oran placed second for overall General Excellence in the Class 2

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category of community newspapers, while staffer Bill Dunphy placed third out of 40 entries for taking the Best Sports Photo for a community weekly;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs congratulate staff of the Inverness Oran and photographer Bill Dunphy on their awards, and wish them every success with future endeavours in their profession.

RESOLUTION NO. 2037

By: Mr. James DeWolfe (Pictou East)

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

Whereas Jeanette Sim, an employee with the Human Resources Development Canada office in New Glasgow, was recognized in December with a national award for excellence in public service; and

Whereas Ms. Sim was the only federal government employee from Nova Scotia selected to receive a Head of the Public Service Award in 2003; and

Whereas Ms. Sim has a caseload of more than 150 clients while also working on the Summer career placement program as well as a variety of other tasks;

Therefore be it resolved that Ms. Jeanette Sim of Pictou County be recognized by members of this House of Assembly for her outstanding contributions in assisting the public and for her commitment to detail over the past 18 years in her work with HRDC Canada.

RESOLUTION NO. 2038

By: Hon. Peter Christie (Finance)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's distinction for hosting world-class championship events continues to grow at an amazing rate; and

Whereas with the success of the World Women's Hockey Championship now history, a group of individuals was recently in Southampton, England, putting forth a presentation that will hopefully see the 2007 World Sailing Championships come to Nova Scotia; and

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Whereas seven different yacht clubs were involved in preparing the world bid which has resulted in Korea, the Netherlands, Portugal, two locations in Germany and Spain, all seeking to outbid Nova Scotia for this prestigious event;

Therefore be it resolved with a decision expected from the International Sailing Federation next month, the Nova Scotia Legislature applaud the efforts of former Olympic sailor, Glen Dexter, and Events Halifax director, Frank Garner, for leading the way in presenting Nova Scotia's bid.

RESOLUTION NO. 2039

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont (Agriculture and Fisheries)

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

Whereas ambulance users in the West Pubnico area will have a new ambulance provider on June 5th; and

Whereas the manager of West Pubnico Ambulance and Funeral Services, Brian d'Entremont, will assist in the transition from the current ambulance service provider to Emergency Health Services; and

Whereas EHS will open a new base in the community, all four paramedics currently employed by West Pubnico Ambulance and Funeral Services will gain employment with the new ambulance provider and additional paramedics will be hired;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in expressing our thanks to Brian d'Entremont and the staff of West Pubnico Ambulance and Funeral Services for the excellent service they provided the community over the years and welcome Emergency Health Services to West Pubnico.

RESOLUTION NO. 2040

By: Mr. William Langille (Colchester North)

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

Whereas 4-H members from across the province displayed their talents during the recent 4-H Night in Nova Scotia held in Truro; and

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Whereas Tatamagouche resident, Jamie Fraser, won the Farm Credit Corporation scholarship of $1,500; and

Whereas Debert resident, Charlotte Reid, was honoured with the Travel Interprovincial Exchange award to go to Saskatchewan in July;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Jamie Fraser and Charlotte Reid on winning their 4-H awards at the 4-H Night in Nova Scotia and recognize all the participants in this very worthwhile program.

RESOLUTION NO. 2041

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Jeddore Lodge and Cabins in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Jeddore Lodge and Cabins in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2042

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

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Whereas Len's Aluminium Welding and Fabrication in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Len's Aluminium Welding and Fabrication in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2043

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Faulkner Insurance Agency in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Faulkner Insurance Agency in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2044

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Forest Hill Drug Mart in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Forest Hill Drug Mart in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2045

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Magneto Inductive Systems Ltd. in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Magneto Inductive Systems Ltd. in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2046

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Toddy's Restaurant and Lounge in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Toddy's Restaurant and Lounge in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2047

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Salmon River House and Country Inn in Salmon River Bridge, Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Salmon River House and Country Inn in Salmon River Bridge, Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2048

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Currie's Insurance in Lake Charlotte is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Currie's Insurance in Lake Charlotte for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2049

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Tin Roof Enterprises in Head of Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Tin Roof Enterprises in Head of Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2050

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Lakeview Home Hardware in Porters Lake is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Lakeview Home Hardware in Porters Lake for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2051

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Unicorn Cottage Feline Boarding in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Unicorn Cottage Feline Boarding in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2052

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Eastern Shore Optical in Porters Lake is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Eastern Shore Optical in Porters Lake for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2053

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas C thru Us in Lake Charlotte is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing C thru Us in Lake Charlotte for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2054

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas The Eastern Shore Observer in Lake Charlotte is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing The Eastern Shore Observer in Lake Charlotte for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2055

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Union Print in Porters Lake is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Union Print in Porters Lake for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2056

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Lakeville Lumber and Portable Milling in Oyster Pond is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Lakeville Lumber and Portable Milling in Oyster Pond for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2057

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas J's Fresh Cup and Laundromat in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing J's Fresh Cup and Laundromat in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2058

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas KC Carpet Sales in Oyster Pond, Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing KC Carpet Sales in Oyster Pond, Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2059

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Auto Wheels in Motion in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Auto Wheels in Motion in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2060

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Bakers Bent Wrench Ultramar Service Station in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Bakers Bent Wrench Ultramar Service Station in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2061

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Budget Glass in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Budget Glass in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2062

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Black Sheet Gallery in Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Black Sheet Gallery in Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2063

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Country Classic Cuts in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Country Classic Cuts in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2064

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas D.K.'s Cycle Supplies, Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing D.K.'s Cycle Supplies, Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2065

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas D & L Nurseries in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing D&L Nurseries in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2066

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Darr Welding and Fabricating Ltd. in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Darr Welding and Fabricating Ltd. in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2067

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Eastern Shore Auto Sales and Repair in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Eastern Shore Auto Sales and Repair in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2068

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Hilltop Childcare Centre in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Hilltop Childcare Centre in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2069

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Home Hardware Building Centre in Head of Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Home Hardware Building Centre in Head of Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2070

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Mark Fuels Ltd. in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Mark Fuels Ltd. in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2071

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Mr. Pizza in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Mr. Pizza in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2072

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Musquodoboit Harbour Irving is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Musquodoboit Harbour Irving for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4215]

RESOLUTION NO. 2073

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Napa Auto Parts in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Napa Auto Parts in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2074

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Old Time Friends Antiques, Collectibles and Dolls in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Old Time Friends Antiques, Collectibles and Dolls in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4216]

RESOLUTION NO. 2075

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Old Anderson House Craft Shop and Gallery in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Old Anderson House Craft Shop and Gallery in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2076

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Ongs Restaurant in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Ongs Restaurant in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4217]

RESOLUTION NO. 2077

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas On-Site Mobile Service in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing On-Site Mobile Service in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2078

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Rowlings Funeral Home in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Rowlings Funeral Home in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4218]

RESOLUTION NO. 2079

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Seacoast Escapes in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Seacoast Escapes in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2080

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Toulany's Meat Market in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Toulany's Meat Market in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4219]

RESOLUTION NO. 2081

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Wild Grape Florals in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Wild Grape Florals in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2082

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Sherry's Fish and Chips in Salmon River Bridge is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Sherry's Fish and Chips in Salmon River Bridge for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4220]

RESOLUTION NO. 2083

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Shore Print in Salmon River Bridge is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Shore Print in Salmon River Bridge for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2084

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Siteman's Petro Can in Oyster Pond Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Siteman's Petro Can in Oyster Pond Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4221]

RESOLUTION NO. 2085

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Aquaprime Mussel Ranch in Lake Charlotte is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Aquaprime Mussel Ranch in Lake Charlotte for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2086

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Cedar Living Ltd. in Lake Charlotte is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Cedar Living Ltd. in Lake Charlotte for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4222]

RESOLUTION NO. 2087

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas E&F Webber Lakeside Park Ltd. in Upper Lakeville is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing E&F Webber Lakeside Park Ltd. in Upper Lakeville for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2088

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas A1 Lakeview B&B in Porters Lake is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing A1 Lakeview B&B in Porters Lake for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4223]

RESOLUTION NO. 2089

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Community Rental and Sales in Porters Lake is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Community Rental and Sales in Porters Lake for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2090

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas ChemTech Services Ltd. in Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing ChemTech Services Ltd. in Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4224]

RESOLUTION NO. 2091

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Maritime Greetings Inc. in Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Maritime Greetings Inc. in Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2092

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Lorette's Automotive Repair and Welding in Head of Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Lorette's Automotive Repair and Welding in Head of Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4225]

RESOLUTION NO. 2093

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Eastern Shore Auto Salvage in Three Fathom Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Eastern Shore Auto Salvage in Three Fathom Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2094

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Memories Trophies, Engraving and Gifts in Seaforth is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Memories Trophies, Engraving and Gifts in Seaforth for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4226]

RESOLUTION NO. 2095

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas OI Post Office Convenience Store in Head of Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing OI Post Office Convenience Store in Head of Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2096

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Gaetz Custom Homes in Musquodoboit Harbour is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Gaetz Custom Homes in Musquodoboit Harbour for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4227]

RESOLUTION NO. 2097

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas The Elephant's Nest in Gaetz Brook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing The Elephant's Nest in Gaetz Brook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2098

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Atlantic Water Supply in Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Atlantic Water Supply in Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4228]

RESOLUTION NO. 2099

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Cousin's Service Centre Ltd. in Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Cousin's Service Centre Ltd. in Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2100

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Marine Drive Courier in Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Marine Drive Courier in Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4229]

RESOLUTION NO. 2101

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Ezra Electric in Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Ezra Electric in Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2102

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas G & R Woodworking in East Jeddore is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing G & R Woodworking in East Jeddore for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

[Page 4230]

RESOLUTION NO. 2103

By: Mr. William Dooks (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas small businesses account for more than 70 per cent of jobs in this province; and

Whereas small businesses are the lifeblood of our rural communities and play a significant role in growing the economy here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Pettipas Pumping and Septic Service in Chezzetcook is one such business that is making a positive contribution to the economy on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in recognizing Pettipas Pumping and Septic Service in Chezzetcook for all the contributions it makes to Nova Scotia, particularly the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 2104

By: Mr. Mark Parent (Kings North)

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

Whereas it takes talented individuals to publish a weekly newspaper that grabs the attention of the public on a continuing weekly basis; and

Whereas the Bridgetown Monitor-Examiner is a highly read publication with thousands of readers; and

Whereas at the Atlantic Community Newspaper Association Awards Banquet held last weekend in Truro, the Monitor-Examiner's Ken MacPherson placed second out of 39 entries for Best Sports Story or Feature;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs congratulate Ken MacPherson on his award and the staff of the Bridgetown-Middleton Monitor-Examiner and wish them every success with future endeavours in their profession.

[Page 4231]

RESOLUTION NO. 2105

By: Hon. David Morse (Community Services)

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

Whereas the Coldbrook Lions Club hosted an appreciation night on March 20th to thank the community for 24 years of working with the service organization and helping it achieve success; and

Whereas Paul Madden and Laverne Lonergan were presented with awards for their long-standing commitment to the club and the community; and

Whereas Derek Shaffer has been a consistent supporter of the Lions Club by assisting the club with its many efforts, including their Crash-up Derbies and the Apple Blossom Parade;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize the many worthwhile efforts of the Coldbrook Lions Club and acknowledge that when a community works together, almost anything is possible.

RESOLUTION NO. 2106

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Girouard/Giroir/Gerrior family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 2-6, in Larrys River.

[Page 4232]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Girouard/Giroir/Gerrior et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Girouard/Giroir/Gerrior de participer à la rencontre le 2-6 août à Larrys River.

RESOLUTION NO. 2107

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Godin family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1, 2 and 3, in Truro.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4233]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Godin et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Godin de participer à la rencontre le 1,2 et 3 août à Truro.

RESOLUTION NO. 2108

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Granger family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4234]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Granger et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Granger de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2109

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Guillot family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 11, in Saulnierville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Guillot et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Guillot de participer à la rencontre le 11 août à Saulnierville.

[Page 4235]

RESOLUTION NO. 2110

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Haché family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Haché et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Haché de participer à la rencontre le 13 et14 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2111

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4236]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Harrington family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Harrington et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Harrington de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2112

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

[Page 4237]

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Harris family reunion possible, and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Harris et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Harris de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeau's Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2113

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

[Page 4238]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Hebert family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Hebert et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Hebert de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2114

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Henry family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

[Page 4239]

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Henry et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Henry de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2115

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Hubbard family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Yarmouth.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

[Page 4240]

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Hubbard et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Hubbard de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Yarmouth.

RESOLUTION NO. 2116

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Jacquard family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4241]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Jacquard et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Jacquard de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeau's Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2117

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Jeddry family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 5 and 7, in Saint Alphonse and Meteghan.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Jeddry et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Jeddry de participer à la rencontre le 5 et 7 août à Saint Alphonse et Meteghan.

[Page 4242]

RESOLUTION NO. 2118

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Johnson/Jeansonne/Jeanson family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 12, 13 and 14, in Digby.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Johnson/Jeansonne/Jeanson et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Johnson/Jeansonne/Jeanson de participer à la rencontre le 12, 13 et 14 août à Digby.

[Page 4243]

RESOLUTION NO. 2119

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Kinney family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Kinney et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Kinney de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2120

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4244]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Labine family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 5 and 7, in Saint Alphonse and Meteghan.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Labine et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Labine de participer à la rencontre le 5 et 7 août à Saint Alphonse et Meteghan.

RESOLUTION NO. 2121

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4245]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Landry family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7, 8 and 9, in Windsor.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Landry et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Landry de participer à la rencontre le 7, 8 et 9 août à Windsor.

RESOLUTION NO. 2122

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the LeBlanc family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 14, in Church Point.

[Page 4246]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille LeBlanc et encouragent tous les membres de la famille LeBlanc de participer à la rencontre le 14 août à Church Point.

RESOLUTION NO. 2123

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Lefave family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4247]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Lefave et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Lefave de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2124

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Léger family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, 7 and 8, in Wolfville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4248]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Léger et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Léger de participer à la rencontre le 6, 7 et 8 août à Wolfville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2125

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Lejeune (dit Briard) family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 10 and 11, in West Arichat.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Lejeune (dit Briard) et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Lejeune (dit Briard) de participer à la rencontre le 10 et11 août à West Arichat.

[Page 4249]

RESOLUTION NO. 2126

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Levangie/Lavandier family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 12 and 13, in Havre Boucher/Antigonish.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Levangie/Lavandier et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Levangie/Lavandier de participer à la rencontre le 12 et13 août à Havre Boucher/Antigonish.

[Page 4250]

RESOLUTION NO. 2127

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Maillet family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Meteghan Centre, Saulnierville and Church Point.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Maillet et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Maillet de participer à la rencontre le 6 et7 août à Meteghan Centre, Saulnierville et Church Point.

[Page 4251]

RESOLUTION NO. 2128

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Mallet family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 12, in Clearwater Lake.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Mallet et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Mallet de participer à la rencontre le 12 août à Clearwater Lake.

RESOLUTION NO. 2129

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4252]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Martin family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7, 8 and 9, in Windsor.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Martin et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Martin de participer à la rencontre le 7, 8 et 9 août à Windsor.

RESOLUTION NO. 2130

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4253]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Mazerolle family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 2-5, in Annapolis Royal-Grand Pré.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Mazerolle et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Mazerolle de participer à la rencontre le 2-5 août à Annapolis Royal-Grand Pré.

RESOLUTION NO. 2131

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

[Page 4254]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Melanson family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 2, 3 and 4, in Annapolis Royal.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Melanson et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Melanson de participer à la rencontre le 2, 3 et 4 août à Annapolis Royal.

RESOLUTION NO. 2132

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Mius/Muise/Meuse family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Amiraults Hill, Belleville and Surettes Island.

[Page 4255]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Mius/Muise/Meuse et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Mius/Muise/Meuse de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Amiraults Hill, Belleville et Surettes Island.

RESOLUTION NO. 2133

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Moulaison family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, in Tusket.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4256]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Moulaison et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Moulaison de participer à la rencontre le 6 août à Tusket.

RESOLUTION NO. 2134

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Paon family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 10 and 11, in West Arichat.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4257]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Paon et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Paon de participer à la rencontre le 10 et 11 août à West Arichat.

RESOLUTION NO. 2135

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Pellerin family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 2-5, in Larrys River.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Pellerin et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Pellerin de participer à la rencontre le 2-5 août à Larrys River.

[Page 4258]

RESOLUTION NO. 2136

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Pettipas family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 5 to 7, in Saint Alphonse and Meteghan.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Pettipas et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Pettipas de participer à la rencontre le 5-7 août à Saint Alphonse et Meteghan.

RESOLUTION NO. 2137

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4259]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Poirier family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 9 and 10, in Cheticamp.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Poirier et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Poirier de participer à la rencontre le 9 et10 août à Cheticamp.

RESOLUTION NO. 2138

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4260]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Pothier/Pottier family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7 and 8, in Wedgeport and Tusket.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Pothier/Pottier et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Pothier/Pottier de participer à la rencontre le 7 et 8 août à Wedgeport et Tusket.

RESOLUTION NO. 2139

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

[Page 4261]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Prince family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13, 14 and 15, in Wolfville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Prince et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Prince de participer à la rencontre le 13, 14 et 15 août à Wolfville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2140

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Richard family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13, 14 and 15, in Halifax.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

[Page 4262]

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Richard et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Richard de participer à la rencontre le 13, 14 et15 août à Halifax.

RESOLUTION NO. 2141

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Robichaud/Robicheau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 11and 12, in Meteghan.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

[Page 4263]

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Robichaud/Robicheau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Robichaud/Robicheau de participer à la rencontre le 11 et 12 août à Meteghan.

RESOLUTION NO. 2142

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Roy family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1, 2 and 3, in Truro.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Roy et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Roy de participer à la rencontre le 1, 2 et 3 août à Truro.

[Page 4264]

RESOLUTION NO. 2143

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Saindon/Sindon family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 12-15, in Halifax.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Saindon/Sindon et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Saindon/Sindon de participer à la rencontre le 12-15 août à Halifax.

RESOLUTION NO. 2144

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4265]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Samson family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13, 14 and 15, in Petit-de-Grat.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Samson et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Samson de participer à la rencontre le 13, 14 et15 août à Petit-de-Grat.

RESOLUTION NO. 2145

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4266]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Saulnier family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Saulnierville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Saulnier et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Saulnier de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Saulnierville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2146

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Savoie family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 14, in Annapolis Royal.

[Page 4267]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Savoie et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Savoie de participer à la rencontre le 14 août à Annapolis Royal.

RESOLUTION NO. 2147

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Surette family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 11, 13 and 14, in Sainte-Anne-du-Ruisseau, Tusket and Surettes Island.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4268]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Surette et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Surette de participer à la rencontre le le 11, 13, et 14 août à Sainte-Anne-du-Ruisseau, Tusket and Surettes Island.

RESOLUTION NO. 2148

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Thériault family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Saulnierville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4269]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Thériault et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Thériault de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Saulnierville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2149

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Thibeau/Thibeault family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Yarmouth.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Thibeau/Thibeault et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Thibeau/Thibeault de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Yarmouth.

[Page 4270]

RESOLUTION NO. 2150

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Thibodeau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1, in Grand Pré.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Thibodeau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Thibodeau de participer à la rencontre le 1 août à Grand Pré.

RESOLUTION NO. 2151

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4271]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Trahan family reunion possible, and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, 7 and 8, in Wolfville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Trahan et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Trahan de participer à la rencontre le 6, 7 et 8 août à Wolfville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2152

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4272]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Vacon family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8 in Belleville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Vacon et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Vacon de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Belleville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2153

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Allain family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 14 and 15, in Annapolis Royal.

[Page 4273]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Allain et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Allain de participer à la rencontre le 14 et 15 août à Annapolis Royal.

RESOLUTION NO. 2154

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Amirault family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, 7 and 8, in West Pubnico.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4274]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Amirault et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Amirault de participer à la rencontre le 6, 7 et 8 août à West Pubnico.

RESOLUTION NO. 2155

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Arsenault family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14 , in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4275]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Arsenault et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Arsenault de participer à la rencontre le 13-14 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2156

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Aucoin family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 4 and 5, in Cheticamp.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Aucoin et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Aucoin de participer à la rencontre le 4 et 5 août à Cheticamp.

[Page 4276]

RESOLUTION NO. 2157

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Babin family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 11, 13 and 14, in Sainte-Anne-du Ruisseau and Tusket.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Babin et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Babin de participer à la rencontre le 11, 13 et 14 août à Sainte-Anne-du-Ruisseau et Tusket.

[Page 4277]

RESOLUTION NO. 2158

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Babineau(x) family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Babineau(x) et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Babineau(x) de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2159

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4278]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Barillot family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13, in Wolfville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Barillot et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Barillot de participer à la rencontre le 13 août à Wolfville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2160

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4279]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Bastarache/Basque family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 10-15, in Wolfville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Bastarache/Basque et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Bastarach/Basque de participer à la rencontre le 10-15 août à Wolfville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2161

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Belliveau/Beliveau/Bélivaux/Bélivos/Bélivo family reunion

[Page 4280]

possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7 and 8, in Belliveau Cove.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Belliveau/Beliveau/Bélivaux/Bélivos/Bélivo et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Belliveau/Beliveau/Bélivaux/Bélivos/Bélivo de participer à la rencontre le 7 et 8 août à Belliveau Cove.

RESOLUTION NO. 2162

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Benoit/Bennett family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, 9 and 10, in Tracadie/Antigonish.

[Page 4281]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Benoit/Bennett et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Benoit/Bennett de participer à la rencontre le 8, 9 et 10 août à Tracadie/Antigonish.

RESOLUTION NO. 2163

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Berthier/Burkey family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, July 31st and August 1st, in L'Ardoise.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4282]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Berthier/Burkey et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Berthier/Burkey de participer à la rencontre le 31 juillet et 1 août à L'Ardoise.

RESOLUTION NO. 2164

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Blanchard family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, in Belleville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4283]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Blanchard et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Blanchard de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Belleville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2165

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Bonnevie family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 2-5, in Larrys River.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Bonnevie et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Bonnevie de participer à la rencontre le 2-5 août à Larrys River.

[Page 4284]

RESOLUTION NO. 2166

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Boucher family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Boucher et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Boucher de participer à la rencontre le 6 et7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2167

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4285]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Boudreau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 4, 5 and 6, in Isle Madame.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Boudreau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Boudreau de participer à la rencontre le 4, 5 et 6 août à Isle Madame.

RESOLUTION NO. 2168

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4286]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Bourgeois family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Bourgeois et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Bourgeois de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2169

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Bourque/Bourg family reunion possible and encourage all

[Page 4287]

descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, 7 and 8, in Sainte-Anne-de-Ruisseau, Tusket and Sluice Point.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Bourque/Bourg et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Bourque/Bourg de participer à la rencontre le 6, 7 et 8 août à Sainte-Anne-de-Ruisseau, Tusket et Sluice Point.

RESOLUTION NO. 2170

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Breau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 2, 3 and 4, in Annapolis Royal and Port Royal.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

[Page 4288]

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Breau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Breau de participer à la rencontre le 2, 3 et 4 août à Annapolis Royal et Port Royal.

RESOLUTION NO. 2171

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Broussard/Brossard family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 11, 12 and 13, in Pomquet/Antigonish.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

[Page 4289]

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Broussard/Brossard et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Broussard/Brossard de participer à la rencontre le 11, 12 et13 août à Pomquet/Antigonish.

RESOLUTION NO. 2172

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Chiasson family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1 and 2, in Cheticamp.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Chiasson et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Chiasson de participer à la rencontre le 1et 2 août à Cheticamp.

[Page 4290]

RESOLUTION NO. 2173

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Clairmont family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Clairmont et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Clairmont de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

[Page 4291]

RESOLUTION NO. 2174

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Comeau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 12 and 13, in Pointe-de-l'Eglise and Comeauville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Comeau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Comeau de participer à la rencontre le 12 et13 août à Pointe-de-l'Eglise et Comeauville.

[Page 4292]

RESOLUTION NO. 2175

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Cordeau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, July 31 and August 1, in D'Escousse.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Cordeau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Cordeau de participer à la rencontre le 31 juillet et le 1 août à D'Escousse.

RESOLUTION NO. 2176

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4293]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Cormier family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1 and 2, in River Hebert and Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Cormier et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Cormier de participer à la rencontre le 1et 2 août à River Hebert et Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2177

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4294]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Corporon family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7 and 8, in Wedgeport and Tusket.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Corporon et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Corporon de participer à la rencontre le 7 et 8 août à Wedgeport et Tusket.

RESOLUTION NO. 2178

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

[Page 4295]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Cottreau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7 and 8, in Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Cottreau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Cottreau de participer à la rencontre le 7 et 8 août à Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2179

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Crochet family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Saulnierville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

[Page 4296]

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Crochet et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Crochet de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Saulnierville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2180

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Daigle family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, in Halifax.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

[Page 4297]

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Daigle et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Daigle de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Halifax.

RESOLUTION NO. 2181

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the David family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 7 and 8, in Petit-de-Grat.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille David et encouragent tous les membres de la famille David de participer à la rencontre le 7 et 8 août à Petit-de-Grat.

[Page 4298]

RESOLUTION NO. 2182

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the DeCoste family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 9, 10 and 11, in Havre Boucher/Antigonish.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille DeCoste et encouragent tous les membres de la famille DeCoste de participer à la rencontre le 9, 10 et11 août à Havre Boucher/Antigonish.

[Page 4299]

RESOLUTION NO. 2183

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Delorey/DesLauriers family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13, 14 and 15, in Tracadie/Antigonish.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Delorey/DesLauriers et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Delorey/DesLauriers de participer à la rencontre le 13, 14 et 15 août à Tracadie/Antigonish.

[Page 4300]

RESOLUTION NO. 2184

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the D'Entremont family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, 7 and 8, in West Pubnico.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille D'Entremont et encouragent tous les membres de la famille D'Entremont de participer à la rencontre le 6, 7 et 8 août à West Pubnico.

RESOLUTION NO. 2185

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4301]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the d'Eon family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6, 7 and 8, in West Pubnico.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille d'Eon et encouragent tous les membres de la famille d'Eon de participer à la rencontre le 6, 7 et 8 août à West Pubnico.

RESOLUTION NO. 2186

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4302]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Deveau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 3 and 4, in Cheticamp.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Deveau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Deveau de participer à la rencontre le 3 et 4 août à Cheticamp.

RESOLUTION NO. 2187

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the deVillier family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

[Page 4303]

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille deVillier et encouragent tous les membres de la famille deVillier de participer à la rencontre le 6 et7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2188

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Doiron family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1 and 2, in Pomquet.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

[Page 4304]

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Doiron et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Doiron de participer à la rencontre le 1et 2 août à Pomquet.

RESOLUTION NO. 2189

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Doucet family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1 and 2, in Church Point.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

[Page 4305]

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Doucet et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Doucet de participer à la rencontre le 1et 2 août à Church Point.

RESOLUTION NO. 2190

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Dugas family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 11, in Saulnierville

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Dugas et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Dugas de participer à la rencontre le 11 août à Saulnierville.

[Page 4306]

RESOLUTION NO. 2191

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Dulong family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, in Belleville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Dulong et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Dulong de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Belleville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2192

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4307]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Dupuis family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Halifax.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Dupuis et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Dupuis de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Halifax.

RESOLUTION NO. 2193

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

[Page 4308]

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Fitzgerald family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 6 and 7, in Comeaus Hill and Wedgeport.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Fitzgerald et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Fitzgerald de participer à la rencontre le 6 et 7 août à Comeaus Hill et Wedgeport.

RESOLUTION NO. 2194

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

[Page 4309]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Forest family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, July 31 and August 1, in Middleton.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Forest et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Forest de participer à la rencontre le 31 juillet et 1 août à Middleton.

RESOLUTION NO. 2195

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Fougere family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, July 31 and August 1, in D'Escousse.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

[Page 4310]

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Fougere et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Fougere de participer à la rencontre le 31 juillet et 1 août à D'Escousse.

RESOLUTION NO. 2196

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Frotten family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 8, in Belleville.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

[Page 4311]

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Frotten et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Frotten de participer à la rencontre le 8 août à Belleville.

RESOLUTION NO. 2197

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Gallant family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Gallant et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Gallant de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Amherst.

[Page 4312]

RESOLUTION NO. 2198

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Gaudet family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 1 and 2, in Meteghan River.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Gaudet et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Gaudet de participer à la rencontre le 1 et 2 août à Meteghan River.

RESOLUTION NO. 2199

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 4313]

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Gautreau family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 13 and 14, in Port Royal and Yarmouth.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Gautreau et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Gautreau de participer à la rencontre le 13 et 14 août à Port Royal et Yarmouth.

RESOLUTION NO. 2200

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

[Page 4314]

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Gauvin family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 14, in Amherst.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Gauvin et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Gauvin de participer à la rencontre le 14 août à Amherst.

RESOLUTION NO. 2201

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas this Summer Nova Scotia is very honoured to host the third World Acadian Congress and Acadians from across the world will be welcomed to the land of their ancestors; and

Whereas there will be approximately 100 family reunions taking place in communities across Nova Scotia and these reunions play a vital role in the World Acadian Congress; and

Whereas many of the Acadian family names continue to be heard throughout Nova Scotia and around the world, which dramatically illustrates the Acadians' survival;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature congratulate all the volunteers who have made the Geddrey/Guidry family reunion possible and encourage all descendants of this family to participate in this event, August 5 and 7, in Saint Alphonse and Meteghan.

Par la présente, j'avise que je proposerai à une date ultérieure, l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que cet été, le troisième Congrès Mondial Acadien prendra place en Nouvelle-Écosse et accueillera des nombreuses personnes en ce lieu de leurs ancêtres; et

Attendu que près de 100 familles se réuniront dans les communautés à travers la province et que ces rencontres sont une partie importante du Congrès Mondial; et

Attendu que ces noms de familles acadiennes résonnent encore dans cette province et à travers le monde et sont un signe de la vitalité des Acadiens;

Qu'il soit résolu que cette assemblée législative félicitent les bénévoles de la famille Geddrey/Guidry et encouragent tous les membres de la famille Geddrey/Guidry de participer à la rencontre le 5 et 7 août à Saint Alphonse et Meteghan.

RESOLUTION NO. 2202

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax, Clayton Park)

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

Whereas The Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its first Volunteer Recognition Awards Dinner May 6, 2004, to honour volunteers who have made a difference in their community; and

Whereas David Harrison is a Grade 8 student at Fairview Junior High School who assists the adult volunteer at Ecole Burton Ettinger in preparing food and serving breakfast to 25 students at his former school; and

Whereas David's service to the breakfast club has been immeasurable, in addition to the work he does with the other volunteers, he provides helpful guidance to the Grade 5 and Grade 6 students on what to expect when they go to junior high;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature acknowledge the contributions made by David Harrison and congratulate him on receiving the Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 2203

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax, Clayton Park)

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

Whereas the Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its first Volunteer Recognition Awards Dinner May 6, 2004, to honour volunteers who have made a difference in their community; and

Whereas Marguerite D. Ainsworth, CTM, began volunteering 61 years ago in 1943 for the Canadian Council of the Blind, in addition she has given 23 years of her time and expertise to Northwood Community Centre as well as serving as president of the Legion of Mary of St. Steven Church; and

Whereas Ms. Ainsworth has dedicated her life to helping others and has found a way to make improvements or create a program where she has seen a need;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House acknowledge the tremendous contributions Marguerite Ainsworth has made to her community and congratulate her for receiving the Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 2204

By: Mr. David Morse (Kings South)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's firefighting community lost a true and respected leader on March 9 of this year; and

Whereas former New Minas Fire Chief Chester Lightfoot who held the position for thirteen years between 1975 and 1988, and became the youngest fire chief in Canada when he began serving 29 years ago; and

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Whereas at the time of his passing Chester was Director of Finance for the Maritime Fire Chiefs Association, in which he was an honorary life member, and where he saw the financial resources of the association grow considerably over the past 20 years;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs express our deepest sympathies to the Lightfoot family and Directors of the Maritime Fire Chiefs Association who have lost an instrumental leader in both family and executive fire service related responsibilities.

RESOLUTION NO. 2205

By: Mr. Ron Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas the Police Exemplary Service Medal is awarded for meritorious service, characterized by good conduct, industry and efficiency that serves as a model for others; and

Whereas police officer Delaney Chisholm will receive this award for 30 years outstanding service in the New Glasgow Police Department; and

Whereas Mr. Chisholm has worked his way up through the ranks of police service and is currently the Deputy Chief of Police in New Glasgow;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in congratulating New Glasgow Deputy Chief of Police Delaney Chisholm on receiving an Exemplary Service Medal and recognize his 30 years of service, working to make New Glasgow a safer place to live, work and raise children.

RESOLUTION NO. 2206

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas Ryan MacNeil from Middleton, Nova Scotia graduated Thursday, May 13th, from Mount St. Vincent University with a Degree in Business Administration and had the honour of delivering the valedictory address; and

Whereas Ryan was awarded the Senate Medal of Distinction for finishing the highest in his class, the President's Prize for demonstrating generosity, energy and commitment that

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enriched the university, and the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal in large part because of his five years of work on the Nova Scotia Youth Advisory Council, where he served for two and a half years as co-chairman;

Whereas Ryan served as Student Union President at Mount St. Vincent University and has remained active in community economic development in his home town since high school;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Ryan MacNeil for his accomplishments and wish him well in all of his future pursuits.

RESOLUTION NO. 2207

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas the Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its first Volunteer Recognition Awards Dinner on May 6, 2004, to honour volunteers who have made a difference in their community; and

Whereas Anthony Metledge was honored as a founding member of the Diman Association of Canada who has generously volunteered over 1,000 hours of service to many community organizations; and

Whereas Mr. Metlege, has been a major contributor to the Diman Community Centre and has been a leader in the efforts to promote Lebanese culture in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House acknowledge the important contributions made by Anthony Metlege to the Diman Association Canada.

RESOLUTION NO. 2208

By: Mr. Ron Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

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Whereas the Mushaboom Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Mushaboom Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2209

By: Mr. Ron Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Seven Communities Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Seven Communities Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2210

By: Mr. Ron Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Sheet Harbour Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

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Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Sheet Harbour Fire Department, for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2211

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Moser River and District Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Moser River and District Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2212

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Chedabucto Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

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Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Chedabucto Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2213

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Ecum Secum Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Ecum Secum Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2214

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Guysborough Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Guysborough Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2215

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Hazel Hill and District Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Hazel Hill and District Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2216

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Larrys River and District Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Larrys River and District Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2217

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Little Dover Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Little Dover Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2218

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Mulgrave Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Mulgrave Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2219

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the Canso Fire Department answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the Canso Fire Department for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 2220

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the District 6 Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs commend the executive and firefighters from the District 6 Fire Department of Guysborough County for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2221

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Erinville Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Erinville Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

RESOLUTION NO. 2222

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Mooseland Fire Department answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Mooseland Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2223

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Islandview Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Islandview Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

RESOLUTION NO. 2224

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Liscomb Fire Department in Guysborough answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Liscomb Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2225

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Tangier and Area Fire Department answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Tangier and Area Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

RESOLUTION NO. 2226

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Whitehead Fire Department in Guysborough answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Whitehead Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2227

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Sherbrooke and Area Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Sherbrooke and Area Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

RESOLUTION NO. 2228

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Seashore Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Seashore Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2229

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Manchester-Boylston Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Manchester-Boylston Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

RESOLUTION NO. 2230

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are the lifeblood of rural Nova Scotia communities who are called out at any given time of the day or night; and

Whereas the Harbourview Fire Department in Guysborough County answers a number of local alarms annually while always being ready to assist fellow fire departments with mutual aid assistance; and

Whereas a community without the devotion of volunteer firefighters would be a community living on the edge, not knowing who they could call at a time of peril or distress;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the Harbourview Fire Department for their passion and zeal in responding to alarms when required.

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RESOLUTION NO. 2231

By: Mr. Ronald Chisholm (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas firefighters are summoned in times of need, regardless of the time of day or night; and

Whereas the St. Mary's and District Firefighters Association answers a number of alarms annually; and

Whereas a community without the dedication of volunteer firefighters would be a community at great risk because of the uncertainty of when an emergency can arise;

Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs of this House commend the executive and firefighters from the St. Mary's and District Firefighters Association for their excellent responses in times of need while wishing them continued success.