July 13, 2006

HANSARD 06-11

DEBATES AND PROCEEDINGS

Speaker: Honourable Cecil Clarke

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, JULY 13, 2006

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS 557
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
Committee on Private and Local Bills, Mr. C. Parker 558
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 269, Helicopter Crash (Canso): Victims/Honour - Survivers/Prayers,
The Premier 558
Vote - Affirmative 559
Res. 270, Cape Breton - Travel Mag.: Rating - Congrats.,
The Premier 559
Vote - Affirmative 560
Res. 271, Agric.: Women's Institutes (N.S.) - Buy Local Prog.,
Hon. B. Taylor 560
Vote - Affirmative 560
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 56, Forests Act, Mr. C. MacKinnon 560
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS:
WCAT Annual Report, 2006
Hon. M. Scott 561
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 272, Helicopter Crash (Canso): Victims/Honour - Survivors/Prayers,
Mr. D. Dexter 561
Vote - Affirmative 562
Res. 273, Helicopter Crash (Canso): Victims/Prayers - Survivors/Recovery Wish,
Mr. M. Samson 562
Vote - Affirmative 563
Res. 274, Rastelli, Luigi & Elsa - Retirement, Mr. P. Dunn 563
Vote - Affirmative 564
Res. 275, Cameron, Craig - Shining Star Award, Mr. J. MacDonell 564
Vote - Affirmative 564
Res. 276, Cherry Brook Storytellers - Living Libraries, Hushed No More:
Launch - Congrats., Mr. K. Colwell 564
Vote - Affirmative 565
Res. 277, Coutinho, Louis: Windsor CAO - Appt., Mr. C. Porter 565
Vote - Affirmative 566
Res. 278, E. River Dev. Assoc. - Building: Acquisitions - Congrats.,
Mr. C. MacKinnon 566
Vote - Affirmative 567
Res. 279, MacLean, Marvin/St. Peter's & Area Vol. FD:
Vol. Serv. - Recognize, Mr. M. Samson 567
Vote - Affirmative 568
Res. 280, Doucette, Chad: Cdn. Idol Top 10 - Congrats., Hon. W. Dooks 568
Vote - Affirmative 568
Res. 281, Glooscap Heritage Ctr.: Creators - Congrats., Ms. J. Massey 568
Vote - Affirmative 569
Res. 282, Doucette, Vincent - ROTP Scholarship, Mr. H. Theriault 569
Vote - Affirmative 570
Res. 283, Smith, Dr. Jim: NSCC - Hon. Dip., Hon. J. Muir 570
Vote - Affirmative 571
Res. 284, Dann, Hugo/Daigle, Patrick/Vols.: Pride Week - Success Wish,
Mr. D. Dexter 571
Vote - Affirmative 572
Res. 285, Denton, Dr. Leonard/Paul - Homestead in the Valley: Donation -
Congrats., Mr. H. Theriault 572
Vote - Affirmative 573
Res. 286, Pitman, Jennifer - Track & Field Congrats.,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 573
Vote - Affirmative 573
Res. 287, Mitchell, Taylor: Brookside JHS Female Athlete of Yr.,
Mr. W. Estabrooks 573
Vote - Affirmative 574
Res. 288, Provo, David "Quentrel" LeMar: Acad. Achievement -
Congrats., Mr. K. Colwell 574
Vote - Affirmative 575
Vote - Affirmative
Res. 289, Porter, Lucas: Musical Achievement - Congrats.,
Hon. M. Parent 575
Vote - Affirmative 575
Res. 290, Dist. 9 Citizens' Assoc. Exec.: Election - Congrats.,
Mr. T. Zinck 576
Vote - Affirmative 576
Res. 291, Westfield Air Crash (1942): Monument - Fundraisers,
Ms. V. Conrad 576
Vote - Affirmative 577
ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS:
No. 89, Health - Anna. Valley Reg. Hosp. - Wait Times, Mr. D. Dexter 577
No. 90, Serv. N.S. & Mun. Rel.: Gas Regulation - Justify,
Mr. M. Samson 579
No. 91, Health: Seniors - Long-Term Care, Mr. D. Dexter 580
No. 92, Health: Care Review - Pub. Notice,
Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid) 581
No. 93, Justice: Maintenance Enforcement Office (Yar.) - Reopen,
Mr. M. Samson 583
No. 94, Health: Midwifery - Legislation,
Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid) 584
No. 95, TPW - Schools: Sidewalks - Address, Mr. P. Paris 586
No. 96, Health: Dental Hygienists - Self-Regulation,
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 587
No. 97, Serv. N.S. & Mun. Rel.: Payday Loans - Consumers Project,
Mr. T. Zinck 588
No. 98, Environ. & Lbr.: Tobeatic Mgt. Plan - Implement, Ms. V. Conrad 589
No. 99, Agric.: Hog Industry - Long-Term Plan, Mr. L. Glavine 590
No. 100, Health Prom. & Prot.: E. Hants Sportsplex - Expansion,
Mr. J. MacDonell 592
No. 101, Serv. N.S. & Mun. Rel. - Sherbrooke: Bus Service - Funding,
Mr. C. Parker 593
No. 102, Nat. Res.: Blue Mtn.-Birch Cove Lakes Lands - Protection,
Ms. D. Whalen 594
No. 103, DNR: McNabs Island - Campsites Reopen, Mr. K. Deveaux 595
No. 103, DNR: McNabs Island - Campsites Reopen, Mr. K. Deveaux
No. 103, DNR: McNabs Island - Campsites Reopen, Mr. K. Deveaux
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
GOVERNMENT MOTIONS:
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON SUPPLY AT 12:35 P.M. 597
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 8:43 P.M. 597
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS:
Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board Annual Report, 2005-06,
Hon. W. Dooks 597
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 8:45 P.M. 598
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 8:57 P.M. 598
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Fri., July 14th at 9:00 a. m. 599
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Res. 292, Smith, Wendell & Geraldine - VanVulpen Award,
Hon. E. Fage. 600
Res. 293, Skinner, Kelly: Lakeside Child Care Ctr. - Congrats.,
Mr. W. Estabrooks 600
Res. 294, Bond, Justin - Shining Star Award, Mr. J. MacDonell 601
Res. 295, Nubody's Burnside Superclub: Grand Opening - Congrats.,
Ms. J. Massey 601
Res. 296, Borden, Walter: Portia White Prize - Congrats., Ms. J. Massey 602
Res. 297, Ian Forsyth Elem. Sch. Fundraising Auction - Anniv. (10th),
Ms. J. Massey 602
Res. 298, Prince Andrew Woodlawn Environ. Enhancement &
Cons. Assoc.: Work - Thank, Ms. J. Massey 603
Res. 299, Vineberg, Selma - Retirement, Ms. J. Massey 603
Res. 300, Dart. Seniors' Serv. Ctr. Lobsterfest - Anniv. (11th),
Ms. J. Massey 604
Res. 301, E. Dart. Commun. Ctr. - E. Dart. Rec. Soc.: Work - Thank,
Ms. J. Massey 604
Res. 302, Ian Forsyth Elem. Sch. Spring Fair: Participants - Thank,
Ms. J. Massey 605
Res. 303, Farrell, Betty: Boularderie Sch. Principal - Appt., Mr. K. Bain 605
Res. 304, Nicholson, Chris: Rankin Mem. Sch. Principal - Appt, Mr. K. Bain. 606
Res. 305, Parkview Educ. Ctr. - Track & Field Meet: Participants -
Congrats., Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 606
Res. 306, McLennan, Cameron/Croft, Kelsey/Wolter, Mattias:
Reg. Track & Field Meet - Congrats., Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 607
Res. 307, Howell, Chef Michael: James Beard Soc. Invitation -
Congrats., Hon. B. Taylor 607
Congrats., Hon. B. Taylor
Res. 308, Quinlan, Dr. Kevin: Truro NSCC Expansion - Congrats.,
Hon. J. Muir 608
Res. 309, Swan, Madison/Davis, Emily/Newell, Cassie/Dormiedy, Heidi -
NBA 303 Tournament, Hon. M. Scott 608
Res. 310, Black, James - Sch. Attendance Cert., Hon. M. Scott 609
Res. 311, Graves, Jordan - Sch. Attendance Cert., Hon. M. Scott 609
Res. 312, Hickman, Kathryn - Sch. Attendance Cert., Hon. M. Scott 312
Res. 313, Hicks, Colby - Sch. Attendance Cert., Hon. M. Scott 610
Res. 314, Thompson, Malloy - Sch. Attendance Cert., Hon. M. Scott 611
Res. 315, Reade, Toni - Cumb. Health Auth. Scholarship, Hon. M. Scott 611
Res. 316, Fahey, Megan - Outstanding Achievement, Hon. M. Scott 612

[Page 557]

HALIFAX, THURSDAY, JULY 13, 2006

Sixtieth General Assembly

First Session

11:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Cecil Clarke

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Mr. Wayne Gaudet

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. We'll commence with the daily routine.

Before we commence the daily routine, I'd like to do an introduction this morning. Many people are familiar with our Manager and Editor of Hansard, Bob Kinsman, who is in the gallery today, as normal. It's always great to see Bob here in the House. Bob has a special guest visiting us here in Nova Scotia today, and that's Mark Taplin from the Scottish Parliament Official Report, or Hansard. He's visiting Nova Scotia and is here today to see the Legislature, as well as have visitation with Nova Scotia Hansard. I would ask Mark to rise and receive the warm welcome of the Nova Scotia Legislature. Welcome, Mark. (Applause)

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou West.

557

[Page 558]

MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, as Chairman of the Committee on Private and Local Bills, I am directed to report that the committee has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 34 - Maritime Conservatory Reorganization Act.

and the committee recommends this bill to the favourable consideration of the House, without amendment.

MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that this bill be referred to the Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 269

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

Whereas all Nova Scotians were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss early this morning of three military crew members off the coast of Canso; and

Whereas another four military personnel were injured after the CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from the 413 Transport and Rescue Squadron ditched in the water at 12:30 a.m. during a Canadian Forces search and rescue training exercise; and

Whereas we are thankful for the swift efforts of our Coast Guard, our military crews in the air, and to local fishing boats and their crews that the lives of four of the crew were spared;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House rise for a moment of silence in honour of the three lives lost while in service to their country, and send our thoughts and prayers to their families and to the four survivors as they recover in hospital.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

[Page 559]

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

Please rise.

[One minute of silence was observed.]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you.

The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 270

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

Whereas Travel and Leisure magazine has ranked Cape Breton as the fourth best island to visit in the world, and the number one island destination in continental U.S. and Canada; and

Whereas Cape Breton is the only Canadian island to make the magazine's top 10, it came before Hawaii and the Galapagos Islands, and it was topped only by Bali, Maui, and Kuaui; and

Whereas this magazine's nearly 1 million readers voted for the vacation destinations that made this ranking, and they will all read about the beauty of Cape Breton Island while the magazine's Web site gets 2 million hits per month and directs people to our Nova Scotia tourism site;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Cape Breton and Nova Scotia as a top-quality tourism destination that can compete with exotic locations around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 560]

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

RESOLUTION NO. 271

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

Whereas the Women's Institutes of Nova Scotia is a well-respected community organization that supports local farmers and producers; and

Whereas this organization wants to promote the benefits of fresh local food and encourage people to buy local products; and

Whereas the Women's Institutes of Nova Scotia along with the Rural Research Centre at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College have developed a survey to gauge the buying habits and opinions of consumers;

Therefore be it resolved that the Women's Institutes of Nova Scotia be congratulated on their newest project, the Step Up to The Plate Buy Local Challenge! and wish them well in their awareness program taking place at exhibitions, markets and fairs this summer.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 56 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 179 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Forests Act. (Mr. Clarrie MacKinnon)

[Page 561]

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I would ask the unanimous consent of the House to return to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.

MR. SPEAKER: There is a request to revert to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a report of the Workers' Compensation Appeals Tribunal Annual Report for the year ended March 31, 2006.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

RESOLUTION NO. 272

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

Whereas three military personnel were killed and four injured early this morning in a helicopter crash off Canso; and

Whereas these military personnel were on a routine search and rescue training exercise; and

Whereas the loss of these citizens while serving their country will be felt throughout Nova Scotia and beyond;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly offer a minute of silence in honour and memory of the three members of the Armed Forces who died early this

[Page 562]

morning in a helicopter crash while on a search and rescue training exercise, and offer the four survivors our thoughts and prayers.

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 recognition has been already made for the moment of silence and I thank the honourable members.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 273

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

Whereas the men and women of our Armed Forces are continually on call to fight and protect the citizens of our great nation; and

Whereas in the early hours of July 13, 2006, a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter carrying seven Canadian military personnel, based out of CFB Greenwood, was performing a joint search and rescue training operation with the Canadian Coast Guard near Canso, Nova Scotia; and

Whereas due to an unforeseen incident, the helicopter was suddenly forced to ditch in the water and what was a standard training mission abruptly became a search and rescue mission;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly send our thoughts and prayers to the families of the three military personnel who lost their lives and the four more who are currently in hospital, hoping they have a speedy recovery.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 563]

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 Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 274

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

Whereas Luigi and Elsa Rastelli came to Stellarton in 1958 to work for two years at the Faini knitwear factory; and

Whereas the couple stayed in Stellarton with Luigi rising to the post of assistant general manager and when the plant closed suddenly in 1972, the Rastellis purchased some of the plant's equipment and opened Rare Knits Ltd. in Stellarton; and

Whereas Luigi and Elsa eventually decided to retire and recently closed their business and generously donated the old Faini knitting and sewing machines to the Museum of Industry where the equipment will preserve the legacy of garment manufacturing in Stellarton;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House congratulate Luigi and Elsa Rastelli on their well-deserved retirement, and thank them for their dedication and generosity to the Town of Stellarton and its residents.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[11:15 a.m.]

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 564]

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Hants East.

RESOLUTION NO. 275

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

Whereas volunteers are an essential part of the Scouting movement throughout the world; and

Whereas Mr. Craig Cameron, a professional engineer, has used his expertise to provide much-needed assistance with the local Scouts, as well as extending his efforts with other organizations; and

Whereas April 28, 2006, Mr. Cameron was recognized by the Municipality of East Hants with a Shining Star Award for giving of his time and skills to the Scouts and other organizations in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Craig Cameron on receiving the Shining Star Award, and commend him for his many contributions of his time and abilities in providing opportunities for the young people in his area.

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 Preston.

RESOLUTION NO. 276

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

[Page 565]

Whereas the Cherry Brook Storytellers, part of the Lake Loon Cherry Brook Senior Citizens' Group, have written a book, Living Libraries, Hushed No More; and

Whereas the writing of this book has been a dream come true; and

Whereas the book will be launched to the public Thursday, August 3, 2006, at the Nova Scotia Black Cultural Centre, in Dartmouth, at 7:00 p.m.;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House join me in congratulating Cherry Brook Storytellers on the launch of this very special book and encourage them to keep writing for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Health, on an introduction.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I would ask three very special people to stand and receive the warm welcome of the House: my wife, Anne; my son, André, who's seven; and my son, Alec, who is three going on four. So if they could rise and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 277

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

Whereas former Halifax Regional Municipality Director of Human Resources Louis Coutinho is the new Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Windsor; and

[Page 566]

Whereas Mr. Coutinho will oversee the day-to-day running of the Town of Windsor, and will report directly to the mayor and town council while also providing long-term leadership; and

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. There's too much chatter in the Chamber.

MR. PORTER: Whereas Mr. Coutinho is recognized for his leadership skills and strong policy initiatives and will play a strong role as the Town of Windsor continues a strong growth trend;

Therefore be it resolved that Mr. Louis Coutinho be recognized by this House of Assembly as he undertakes his challenging position as the new CAO for the Town of Windsor.

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 East.

RESOLUTION NO. 278

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

Whereas the East River Development Association is a vibrant entity in Pictou East and this month purchased a building; and

Whereas the Municipality of Pictou East generously sold the former Legion building to the East River Development Association for the price of one dollar; and

Whereas the association is in the process of developing information kiosks and other facilities in the East River Valley, which will greatly benefit numerous local communities;

[Page 567]

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the East River Development Association on acquiring a new building as its home base and commend the group on its valuable work in the 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. 279

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

Whereas Marvin MacLean, a member of the St. Peter's and Area Volunteer Fire Department, was named the 2005 Firefighter of the Year at the department's AGM; and

Whereas the department responded to over 100 call-outs, 80 of which were medical call-outs and 13 of which were fire call-outs; and

Whereas the outstanding efforts of Marvin MacLean and the other department members are essential to the safety to the St. Peter's area and surrounding communities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Marvin MacLean's achievement and all the members of the St. Peter's and Area Volunteer Fire Department for volunteering their services to their community.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 568]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Energy.

RESOLUTION NO. 280

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

Whereas 17-year-old Chad Doucette of East Chezzetcook has made all Nova Scotians proud in his quest to become this year's Canadian Idol; and

Whereas Chad's talent and charisma have earned him a spot in Canadian Idol's top 10 competitors, and high praise from the panel of judges; and

Whereas Chad is the only Nova Scotian to make it to the Canadian Idol top 10, distinguishing himself from the 12,000 talented young Canadians who have auditioned for the singing competition during its 11-city, cross-country talent search;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Chad Doucette on his movement to the Canadian Idol top, and encourage all Nova Scotians to show how proud they are of Chad by voting for this talented young Nova Scotian.

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.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

RESOLUTION NO. 281

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

[Page 569]

Whereas on June 21, 2006, I had the honour to attend the Grand Opening of the Glooscap Heritage Centre; and

Whereas the centre is a showcase of Mi'kmaq culture in Nova Scotia and houses a year-round tourist bureau, offices . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order. The Clerks are having difficulty hearing the motions. I would ask the House to bring down the noise level.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East has the floor.

MS. MASSEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Whereas the centre is a showcase of Mi'kmaq culture in Nova Scotia and houses a year-round tourist bureau, offices for the Central Nova Tourism Association, and retail space; and

Whereas the centre opening included dancing, drumming, Aboriginal art, songs and storytelling, which was an ideal way to mark Aboriginal Day;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly congratulate those involved in the creation of the Glooscap Heritage Centre, and thank them for providing a wonderful day of events that were shared and enjoyed by all those who attended.

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 Digby-Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 282

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

[Page 570]

Whereas when push comes to shove, Nova Scotians are able to find their way out of difficult and trying situations, and work to provide better support to their families; and

Whereas the Canadian Armed Forces can provide employment in a variety of fields and carries with it the distinguished role of serving our country; and

Whereas Vincent Doucette of Digby, Nova Scotia, was awarded an $80,000 scholarship from the Regular Officer Training Plan after his completion of studies at the Digby Community Education Centre, receiving top marks in math, physics, and computer programs;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly acknowledge the hard work and dedication Vincent Doucette has used to strive towards a better future for him and his family.

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 Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

RESOLUTION NO. 283

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

Whereas Dr. Jim Smith received an honorary diploma from the Nova Scotia Community College's School of Health and Human Services, which is awarded to worthy leaders who, through their own innovation and commitment, contribute to the quality of life of Nova Scotia and exemplify the values of the Nova Scotia Community College; and

Whereas Dr. Jim Smith has been very active in his community, serving the Nova Scotia Chapter of the Canadian Academy of Sports Medicine, the Atlantic Child Guidance Centre, Dartmouth Community Services, the Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, New Zealand, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada; and

[Page 571]

Whereas Dr. Smith was awarded the Family Physician of the Year Award by the College of Family Physicians of Canada, and was actively involved in the Nova Scotia Medical Society and the College of Family Physicians of Canada while practicing at the Woodlawn Medical Clinic in Dartmouth, and then served as MLA for 19 years;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Dr. Jim Smith on receiving an honorary diploma from the Nova Scotia Community College's School of Health and Human Services, and thank him for providing an outstanding example of public service through his great contributions to his community and medicine.

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 Opposition.

RESOLUTION NO. 284

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

Whereas Pride Week in Atlantic Canada is Atlantic Canada's largest festival of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered culture; and

Whereas the Halifax Pride Committee is committed to creating a Pride Week that is accessible to all people in all communities; and

Whereas Pride Week celebrates the best of the LGBT community and culture in Halifax and throughout Nova Scotia as an important way to promote equality of all in our society;

Therefore be it resolved that the Legislative Assembly thank Hugo Dann and Patrick Daigle, co-chairs of the 2006 Halifax Pride Committee, and Pride Week volunteers for their hard work and wish the 19th annual Pride Week much success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 572]

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 Digby-Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 285

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

Whereas on July 17th at the Admiral Digby Museum, copies of the publication "Homestead in the Valley" co-authored by Dr. Leonard Robert Denton and his nephew Paul Denton will be presented to multiple organizations in the community so that Dr. Denton's life in 1930s and 1940s in Little River, Digby County will be available for generations to come; and

Whereas Leonard Robert Denton, formerly of Little River, has throughout his distinguished careers as an educator, a psychologist and a community activist, worked tirelessly for the benefit of his fellow Nova Scotians; and

Whereas Dr. Denton's determination, community service and self-sacrifice in these chosen fields is an example to us all;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize the contributions of Dr. Denton, an incredible individual, to the Province of Nova Scotia and applaud the efforts of Dr. Denton and his nephew Paul Denton to give to the communities of Digby County a legacy of his youthful memories that will be available to them forever.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 573]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Immigration.

RESOLUTION NO. 286

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

Whereas Jennifer Pitman of Bridgewater recently put on a display of athletics at the Track and Field Regionals and Provincials; and

Whereas Ms. Pitman posted a meet record with a jump of 9.54 metres in the triple jump; and

Whereas Ms. Pitman took four 1st place honours in the junior girls categories: 400 metre race, the high jump, the long jump and the triple jump in Regional and took a gold medal in the junior girls 400 metre in the Provincials;

Therefore be it resolved that the outstanding efforts of Bridgewater's Jennifer Pitman are recognized by this House and wish Jennifer success with her track and field conquests.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

RESOLUTION NO. 287

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

[Page 574]

Whereas Taylor Mitchell was chosen as the Female Athlete of the Year at Brookside Junior High School this year; and

Whereas through hard work and dedication Taylor achieved this honour; and

Whereas Taylor's commitment to her school work and her sports is exemplary;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Taylor Mitchell on her selection as the Female Athlete of the Year at Brookside Junior High School.

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 Preston.

RESOLUTION NO. 288

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

Whereas David "Quentrel" LeMar Provo was a resident of North Preston now living in East Preston, Nova Scotia; and

Whereas David "Quentrel" LeMar Provo is a graduate of Auburn Drive High School; and

Whereas David "Quentrel" LeMar Provo has been accepted into the three year Bachelor of Religious Studies and Youth Ministry at the Tyndale University College and Seminary in Toronto, Ontario starting this fall;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House join me in congratulating David "Quentrel" LeMar Provo on his academic achievement and wish him well in his future endeavours.

[Page 575]

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.

[11:30 p.m.]

The honourable Minister of Environment and Labour.

RESOLUTION NO. 289

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

Whereas Lucas Porter of Port Williams won the Canadian Music Competition for his age category on July 2, 2006, in Quebec; and

Whereas the very talented 15-year-old has a CD coming out this week; and

Whereas he has scheduled a concert this Saturday, July 15th, at Denton Hall in Wolfville, where he will launch his new recording;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the achievement of Port Williams' own champion pianist, Lucas Porter.

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 576]

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

RESOLUTION NO. 290

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

Whereas the District Nine Citizens' Association's objective is to promote and support the improvement of District 9 and the well-being of all its residents; and

Whereas the association consists of volunteers from the district who give freely of their time and service to improve the quality of life in District 9; and

Whereas at the annual general meeting of the District Nine Citizens' Association the membership elected its executive for the 2006 year;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate David Carter, chair; Brian LeBlanc, vice-chair; Doris MacKaracher, treasurer; and Brandon Walker, secretary on their successful election as the District Nine Citizens' Association executive.

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 Queens.

RESOLUTION NO. 291

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

Whereas in November 1942 a military aircraft crashed in the community of Westfield, Queens County, taking the lives of the three crew on board, including Stanley Evan Sutherland of Brookfield, Colchester County; and

[Page 577]

Whereas Joel Frail, a 14-year-old student and resident of Westfield, has dedicated this year to researching this sad historic event in the attempt to see a monument erected in Kayle Field, Westfield, to honour these brave men; and

Whereas Joel Frail will hold a musical rock-a-thon featuring local talent on July 22, 2006, in the Westfield Community Hall to raise money for the monument fund;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly pay respects to the three military crew who lost their lives in November 1942, and that special recognition be given to Joel Frail for his interest in preserving and honouring the history of his 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.

Before we proceed to the orders of the day, I would like to inform all members of the House that, in addition to the resolutions that were read and the moment of silence, the flags at Province House, as well as on the grounds, have been lowered to half-mast in recognition of our Nova Scotia loss. The Sergeant-at-Arms was instructed and it has been done on behalf of this House in respect of our fellow Nova Scotians.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS

MR. SPEAKER: Question Period shall begin at 11:34 a.m. and end at 12:34 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

HEALTH- ANNA. VALLEY REG. HOSP. - WAIT TIMES

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. My office has obtained documents through the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act that contain a briefing note to the previous Premier for a February 1st trip to the Annapolis Valley. I'll read an excerpt from these documents which I will table. It says, "Valley Regional Hospital

[Page 578]

in particular has frequently been in Code Purple status over the past few months, where there are a number of patients waiting in Emerg for Admission." So my question to the Premier is, this situation goes back at least five years, so why hasn't this government moved faster to address the overcrowding and surgery cancellations at the Annapolis Valley Regional Hospital?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. Indeed the government has taken steps, including putting more beds in that facility.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, the briefing note shows that 30 clients were in hospital waiting for a nursing home bed, another 99 clients were waiting for home support services or increases in services, and some of those patients were waiting in hospital, as well. This is in the Valley region alone. I was in Yarmouth not long after this time period, and that regional hospital was also in code purple, and the primary reason for that was the lack of nursing home beds. The Premier and the Health Minister love to say they'll address this in good time. This problem has been brewing for five years, and it's getting worse. So my question is for the Minister of Health, how much longer will regional hospitals be expected to operate beyond their capacity?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I'm very pleased to stand and talk about this very important issue. I can say with many of our hospitals, we've been working quite tirelessly with the DHAs, making sure that we have the correct interim plans, working towards our Continuing Care Strategy to build another 826 beds within the first four years of our project, working with the Valley Regional Hospital, for example, on the construction of 21 new beds so they can operate and function more freely for orthopedics and the type of services they offer there. So I can say to the member opposite and to all members of this House that we're doing our utmost to make sure that all programs and all services in our hospitals will continue to work to the best of their ability.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, well, I'm very pleased to hear the Minister of Health talk about his commitments, because it seemed the other day that he was backpedalling on his Party's election promise to build 40 nursing home beds in Middleton by 2008. Now, their candidate stated at a debate in Bridgetown on June 8th that both the Minister of Health and the Premier assured him of this promise. So my question, then, will be to the Premier, will his Party and will the government live up to its promise to build a 40-bed nursing home in Middleton by 2008? Yes or no.

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as part of the Continuing Care Strategy, there will be beds going across the province to serve the needs of people in that area, to be serving the needs in Cape Breton Island, in the southwestern part of Nova Scotia, in northern Nova Scotia. Why? Because this government recognizes the need to make sure that they go out across this province.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

[Page 579]

SERV. N.S. & MUN. REL.: GAS REGULATION - JUSTIFY

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, when this government brought gas regulation to our province, touting it as the answer to the gas price problems in Nova Scotia, the price under the competitive market the day before regulation was around $1.08 per litre. The day regulation started, the price jumped 6 cents to $1.14 a litre, and at this price consumers weren't happy, and due to the nature of the system, neither were retailers. Now, today, we see that gas regulation has once again provided even higher prices for consumers. The price this morning jumped another 2 cents a litre to $1.16. It has been reported in some rural areas, such as Yarmouth, that the price at the Wilson station is $1.189, and in Digby the price is $1.192 per litre. My question is, Mr. Premier, are you willing to continue to sacrifice the pocketbooks of Nova Scotians for your unwillingness to admit that you made a mistake with gas regulation?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I thank the Leader of the Liberal Party for the question. We have said all along that we put forward regulation for the issue of stability for the consumers here in our province. The Leader is saying there are higher prices because of regulation. Well, I would ask the Leader of the Liberal Party to tell me what would the price of gas be today in St. Peter's if it wasn't regulated today, if he knows that answer?

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I'll give you that answer, and I won't charge the taxpayers $170,000 to give you that answer. Mr. Premier, you commissioned the study and you asked the experts, is gas regulation good for Nova Scotia or bad for Nova Scotia. Last Fall, you stood with all of your colleagues and the former Premier and told Nova Scotians gas regulation was bad for this province. The experts gave you a report, $170,000 later, saying gas regulation was bad. Today, the fruits of your efforts are coming true. Prices are higher, retailers aren't happy, Nova Scotians aren't happy. How much longer is this Premier willing to go before admitting that he should have stuck with the advice he received from the experts that gas regulation, overall, is bad for the Province of Nova Scotia?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I disagree with the Leader of the Liberal Party. Retailers are not unhappy. The reality is that there are guaranteed margins in place for our retailers, which is something that the retail association has been asking our government for, for many years. We are, in fact, moving forward on what they have asked us to move forward on.

In addition, Mr. Speaker, the people of our province now have stability at the pumps. That is something they have been asking for as well. We have also put in other things through the regulatory process, to ensure that we have the interests of Nova Scotians at the forefront. I can assure the Leader of the Liberal Party and all members of the House that we will continue to monitor and make sure that it is working in the best interests of all Nova Scotians.

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, the stability the Premier talks about was a 6-cent a litre increase two weeks ago, a 2-cent a litre increase this morning. How much more of an increase

[Page 580]

can we expect in two weeks? Then we know there is the interrupter clause, the famous clause that would allow him to increase prices even within the two week period.

Mr. Speaker, it is not only a matter of the Liberal Party telling you gas regulation is wrong for Nova Scotia, your own government last fall said that gas regulation was wrong. On the eve of an election you changed your mind, hoping to get votes. Looking around to your colleagues, you see that it did not get you votes, it lost you members. How much longer will the Premier continue to allow gas regulation to bring higher prices, have retailers in Canso and wholesalers in Richmond County upset, before he admits that gas regulation, as the Gardner Pinfold report found, is bad overall for the Province of Nova Scotia?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as we have said all along, we put forward regulations for the issue of stability, to help with our local retailers. It is something that the retail gasoline association was asking our government to do. We moved forward upon it.

As I said to the Leader of the Liberal Party earlier, if he is suggesting that the price today is higher in a place like St. Peter's than it would have been if it wasn't regulated, but yet they won't share that information with us, Mr. Speaker, it speaks for itself.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

HEALTH: SENIORS - LONG-TERM CARE

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, one of the results of this government's failure to act on the need for nursing home beds is the high number of elderly ill patients forced to stay in transitional care units for months, until nursing home beds become available. Now, we know that these are not ideal circumstances for patients or their families; there are few social programs and it can be very isolating. Some of these patients are waiting in this hospital setting for over a year until nursing home beds become available.

My question to the Premier is this, how can you justify warehousing our seniors in transitional care units, instead of providing appropriate care settings in their communities?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I refer that to the Minister of Health.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I can relay to this House that we are working quite a bit with the DHAs making sure that they have the interim plan. We have flowed through them well over $3 million in last year's budget, we are flowing again over $3 million in this year's budget to make adjustments to the wards that they are not using, to make them into a temporary long-term care facility where they can move these patients in to get the care that they require - a little more homey, a little more adjustment to a longer-term stay, so that they take them out of the regular acute care population.

[Page 581]

So, Mr. Speaker, I say that we have been doing our utmost to make sure that seniors are well taken care of during their stay while waiting for a long-term care facility.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, Linda Nickerson's 84-year old mother has dementia and is waiting on the 4th floor of the VG Site in the Transitional Care Unit. Now Linda says that the care she receives is excellent, but that the living environment is disgraceful. Families must do their loved one's laundry at home, so dirty and foul clothing is kept in closets in patients' rooms, sometimes for days. I want to ask the Minister of Health, how can seniors be expected to live in this kind of environment for as long as 18 months?

[11:45 a.m.]

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, if there are particular cases that the levels of care are not acceptable, I would ask the Leader of the Opposition to bring that information forward, because ultimately we would not accept that kind of care. The money that we're funding through to DHAs is to make sure that all our seniors have the adequate amount of care, they have the type of care they require in the hospital setting.

Unfortunately, we don't have the beds available at this time, but we're doing our utmost to make sure we have 826 beds within the first four years.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, Linda asked me to issue this challenge to the Minister of Health. She invites him to pack a suitcase, bring lots of extra clothes and come and live in one of these units for a week, if you can last that long. I want to ask the Minister of Health, will he commit to an immediate review of the living environment, including air quality, at the VG Transitional Care Unit?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I can assure the member opposite that I will be taking this information back to the department to investigate it further. We want to make sure our seniors are as comfortable as possible on this interim basis so we can have the correct facilities built in the correct places - closer to their families so they can have the correct type of care in a long-term care facility.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

HEALTH: CARE REVIEW - PUB. NOTICE

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, my question today is for the Minister of Health. Recently this House was informed of a million dollar review ongoing of our health care system here in Nova Scotia. That review is being conducted by a company that has been pre-disposed to private-for-profit health care delivery. This review was never publicly announced by this government, that now claims it's really just getting started. Well, I'd like to table a contract between Corpus Sanchez and the government. I'd like to draw to the

[Page 582]

attention of the House that it was signed on March 21, 2006. I'd like to ask the minister, will the minister tell this House why his government failed to disclose to the public such a major initiative that was underway two full months before the last election?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I can assure the member opposite that this study is one that's there to look at the DHAs, look at the function of the DHAs. I want to congratulate the DHAs for the hard work they do because they've been in place for five years and we felt, with consultation with the DHAs, that it was time to look at the system to see how it's working to make sure we're having the best value for our money and making suggestions on maybe some changes that are required in order to better serve all Nova Scotians.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, this is $1 million of taxpayers' money that is being spent by this government. They should have informed the public as soon as that deal was signed. The contract I've just tabled shows the consultants had reviewed and produced initial findings from the four DHAs before the election was even called. Between signing the contract and the accidental announcement of its existence last week, the government had 105 days to make it public and to let Nova Scotians know that this was ongoing. When will the minister explain to the House exactly when he planned to publicly explain the existence of this review, had it not slipped out last week?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, through you to the member opposite, DHAs were aware of this study going on and one they fully subscribed to. They feel we should look at the system to look at provincial proficiencies - maybe there's programs that could be run on a province-wide basis rather than one.

Mr. Speaker, I will read off a few things from that tender document, the things we are looking for. Comparison of service detail (Interruptions) - well, the member opposite just tabled the document so I'm just reading from that document. A comparison of service delivery models with best practices - what's wrong with that? Identification of opportunities to improve access to care - what's wrong with that? Identification of increased collaboration between DHAs - what's wrong with that? Improvements to business planning processes - what's wrong with that? Identifications of programs best managed to deliver systems provincially - what's wrong with that? And value for money audit that may recommend redirection of some funds to DHAs with identified needs - what's wrong with that?

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, being open and transparent to the people of Nova Scotia, what's wrong with that? I've heard from Nova Scotians who are concerned that they had no knowledge of this contract and the implications that might come from this review. Furthermore, they can't believe we are paying $1 million to a company from British Columbia led by proponents of private health care to do a so-called review. My final question to the Minister of Health, how can you justify letting nurses and other health care

[Page 583]

professionals flee our public health care system while you spend money on high paid consultants?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I can say to the member opposite that we're working very hard on the retention of professionals in our systems. We're working with the nursing strategy that is the best nursing strategy this province has ever seen, we are working with physicians and working on collaborative practices, we're working on primary health care to make sure we have all the human health resources that we require in this province. If they want to tell you that we're doing otherwise, it is a crock.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

JUSTICE: MAINTENANCE ENFORCEMENT OFFICE (YAR.) - REOPEN

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, during a Public Accounts Committee meeting back in April, the Deputy Minister of Justice confirmed to the House that as of January 2006 the department had permanently shut down the Maintenance Enforcement Office in Yarmouth. As it stands, the office in Kentville is servicing the Shelburne, Digby and Yarmouth areas in addition to their already large area of service. With only four enforcement officers in Kentville, the office was swamped before it took over the responsibility for the work that the Yarmouth office was providing. Placing this extra burden on the officers is unfair and leaving Yarmouth and surrounding areas with no office is a complete disservice for the people of that jurisdiction. My question to the Minister of Justice is will you commit today to fight to get the Maintenance Enforcement Office in Yarmouth reopened?

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I thank the honourable member opposite for the very important question. As the member would be aware as well, we've committed five additional persons under the Maintenance Enforcement Program. We are doing an ongoing review of not only the program but the offices and staff to ensure that the proper amount of dedication is provided to that service. I commit to the House today that we will continue that review and continue to support the Maintenance Enforcement Program.

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, the closure of that office brings to light the problem with this program in our entire province. Right now we have the lowest compliance rate in the entire country at 55 per cent. Out of those 55 per cent, 95 per cent of the cases involve children. We have only 25 officers to service the whole province with each officer averaging 728 cases per officer at any given time. This has been confirmed by the department's own deputy minister. Given these frightening statistics it's clear that parents and children in this province are not being well served by this program, so my question again is, will the Minister of Justice place parents and children at the top of your priority list by expanding the Maintenance Enforcement Program in this province to include even more enforcement officers than the five announced?

[Page 584]

MR. SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, again as I mentioned earlier, we've committed an additional five positions but I'd like to say as well that the Maintenance Enforcement Program in this province, when you compare it to the rest of the country - many parts of the country, B.C. for example, those who take part in that program - those stats cited today are a voluntary part of the program. Everyone here in Nova Scotia who is involved in the Maintenance Enforcement Program is involved in our stats, it's not a true reflection, you're comparing apples and oranges when you use those stats. The other thing I'd like to say is that 78 per cent - in credit to those enforcement workers - 78 per cent of the monies owed in this province are collected, which speaks well in regard to the rest of the country.

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, unfortunately today the Minister of Justice is painting a much rosier picture than his deputy minister was painting back in the Spring and the figures that you provided are the figures your department has given us as to the compliance rate. Fifty-five per cent is not a number for anyone to be proud of here in this province when we recognize how many families, and more importantly children, are being left without the needs they deserve because the department is not able to enforce that.

Mr. Speaker, 728 cases per officer is unacceptable. An additional five officers is not going to reduce that unacceptable number by any significant amount. The people of Yarmouth and surrounding areas are still waiting to see when this government is going to pay the necessary attention to their area, rather than dumping it on top of the Kentville office. So I'll ask the minister again today, you've said that you're going to give five additional officers, will you go the extra step and confirm that your department will reopen and properly staff the Yarmouth Maintenance Enforcement office?

MR. SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, again, the numbers the member is using here are numbers that should be clarified. The 50-plus per cent that he's talking about, again, in Nova Scotia if you are involved in the Maintenance Enforcement Program, you're included in the program and you're included in the stats. In other provinces, for example British Columbia, it's voluntary. If you want to be part, you're included; if not - the other thing is there are many other orders and other initiatives through the courts that we include in ours as well that others don't. So the numbers being provided here today are not fair to the House and not fair to the members and, more importantly, not fair to the Maintenance Enforcement workers in this province who do a great job on a daily basis on behalf of Nova Scotians.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

HEALTH: MIDWIFERY- LEGISLATION

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, my question will be, again, for the Minister of Health. In 1999, the Progressive Conservatives promised legislation to oversee midwifery as a self-regulated profession here in Nova Scotia. After seven long years of little movement, and may I add many promises from this government, it appears that this

[Page 585]

government is finally going to address this long-overdue measure this Fall. Nova Scotia will become one of the last provinces in Canada to regulate midwives as a health profession. So I would like to ask the Minister of Health, what assurances can he offer that this legislation will go ahead in the Fall, as he planned?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for that very important question. It really boils down to making sure that we have the correct mechanism in order to regulate the profession. As it stands today, the number of midwives is not a high one, so to allow them to manage their own practice is difficult. We're trying to find, in consultation with those midwives, a mechanism in which to manage that profession. I can say that the legislation is in draft form, and I'm hoping to have something this Fall.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, I guess they needed seven years to get to this point, so I'm sure that those individuals, those health care professionals will look forward to the Fall, as I will, to ensure that government continues on with what they promised. I'm sure that midwives around this province will be happy to hear this, that legislation is on its way, however, many of the communities without local access to obstetric care won't be celebrating just yet, because so far we see no plan to fund adding midwives to the health care system here in the province. We know that in other provinces, midwives are an important part of the health care team, especially in rural communities. So I ask the minister, when will the services of midwives be added to hospitals and community health clinics across Nova Scotia?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, of course that will be done in collaboration with the district health authorities, physicians, nurses and those types of professionals to make sure that they have the correct type of training in order to bring them into the health system. I would say that we require a little more consultation with those health professionals.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, I hope it's not seven more years for a little more consultation. In Ontario and Manitoba, midwives are able to work independently, to a large degree. This government put more restrictions on nurse practitioners than any other province across the country, limiting their independence and what they can do in this province and how they can treat a patient. So I ask the Minister of Health, will midwives be given at least as broad a scope of practice and autonomy that they have in other provinces across the country?

[12:00 noon]

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, thank you very much for the question. We're speaking theoretically, apparently - we're going to be going on and consulting with those midwives to see what they feel their role in the system is, to work with other health professionals to see what they feel their role should be within the health system, and once the bill is brought in, I'm sure those things will be regulated and taken care of correctly.

[Page 586]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank.

TPW - SCHOOLS: SIDEWALKS - ADDRESS

MR. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Transportation and Public Works. Although about two-thirds of Canadian children could walk to school in 30 minutes or less, only one-third do so. This is often due to a lack of sidewalks and treacherous street crossings. Daily, our school communities must deal with dangerous traffic congestion. It is no wonder parents fear for their children's safety and prefer to drive their kids to school. When is the Minister of Transportation and Public Works going to ensure that there are sidewalks leading to and from our schools?

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, I want to assure the honourable member that the safety of children is a very major priority of government, and the issue of sidewalks and the safety of children is something we are going to be looking at as a government. We've committed to doing that in the platform.

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, my next question is to the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection. In the recent election, the honourable member for Hammonds Plains-Upper Sackville campaigned on the issue of school sidewalks. As such, he is well aware, parents and residents of Kingswood Subdivision have been lobbying for approximately 10 kilometres of sidewalks to ensure their children can walk safely to school. When is the minister going to provide those sidewalks for the children of Hammonds Plains?

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. In questions, to ministers, it's about a portfolio. It's not questions (Interruptions) The question I heard was to a minister about a constituency obligation.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, the member opposite is talking about a commitment that he claims I made. I didn't make that commitment. We did make a commitment, however, that we would review the bus transportation criteria for young children in Nova Scotia, who walk to school in unsafe conditions. Unlike the members opposite in the New Democratic Party, when they made the commitment to build one kilometre of sidewalk for the entire Province of Nova Scotia, that's not good enough for the children I represent, and that's not good enough for Nova Scotia.

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, that one kilometre looks pretty large right about now when I consider what's happened on the other side of the House.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia's children are statistically the most overweight in Canada. The Progressive Conservative Government's chronic underfunding of schools has meant poor resources for fitness and physical education over the last seven years. The walking school bus offers safety in numbers, as well as exercise and a social atmosphere for kids, but it is difficult

[Page 587]

to organize a walking school bus if there are no sidewalks. So my final question to the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection is, when is the minister going to ensure that this government invest properly in children's health and safety?

MR. BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I welcome the honorable member's question. I will say this that this province and this government is the first government in this country to have an Office of Health Promotion. I'm the first Minister responsible for Health Promotion and I'm very proud of our commitment. We have initiatives like healthy, active kids initiatives. It's our department and our government that implemented these initiatives. It's unfortunate the member opposite didn't have similar types of initiatives and that's why, I think, the people of the Province of Nova Scotia elected us, and that's why the people of Hammonds Plains voted for me and not for the member opposites's Party.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Glace Bay.

HEALTH: DENTAL HYGIENISTS - SELF-REGULATION

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, my question is for Minister of Health. Dental hygienists have been lobbying government for several years now to become a self-regulated profession, and for a good reason. From an oral health perspective, the scope of practice for dental hygienists and the types of services they provide would enable these professionals to travel to rural, remote communities and long-term care facilities with ease. When you increase access by providing additional oral health services, you improve the health and well-being of Nova Scotians. My question to the minister is, what is so wrong with bringing in legislation that will increase access and promote better oral health care to Nova Scotians, especially those who are living in long-term care facilities?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for a great question to bring to the floor of the House. I can say there's nothing wrong with bringing legislation in the Fall for dental hygienists, and it's something I commit to do.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, the minister asked organizations and groups to make presentations and attend meetings, and has raised the hopes that something is going to be done. There comes a time when we're going to have to look to the minister to take a leadership role, make a decision and introduce legislation, especially that's in the best interests of Nova Scotians. That's what's expected of you, Mr. Minister, and that's what I hope will be done. I understand that dental hygienists recently requested a meeting with the minister to restate their position, but yet again the response was, you should continue working with dentists. So it sounds like we do have a little bit of a problem here.

My question to the minister is, given that he has been presented evidence and advice from all the parties involved, including staff, why is he still refusing to make that decision and table legislation that would enable dental hygienists to self-regulate their profession?

[Page 588]

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I can assure the member opposite that as early as this morning I had a meeting with my deputy and talked about this very issue. I'm getting them to draft up a letter, which I would be very happy to share with the member opposite, with what our position is going to be, and making sure that we have legislation to come to this House to be debated in the Fall.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, both parties, the dental hygienists and the dentists, have come as far as they're going to go. When you say that it's time that you've reached an agreement, it's also time for the minister to make a decision, and for the minister to act. My final question to the minister is, given that he has all of the information that he needs, will he commit to tabling legislation that will self-regulate the profession of dental hygiene in the Fall of 2006, that session of the Legislature?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, as I stated in the last two answers to the question, absolutely, there will be a piece of legislation in. As I said, pretty much, the dentists and the dental hygienists have come as far as they can go, speaking to each other. We're going to have to find common ground and make sure that they have a piece of legislation that is very similar to those across Canada. I commit to having that piece of legislation in the Fall sitting.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

SERV. N.S. & MUN. REL.: PAYDAY LOANS - CONSUMERS PROTECT

MR. TREVOR ZINCK: Mr. Speaker, my question, through you, is to the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. I want to draw your attention, and the attention of the minister, to an increasing and troubling situation developing across Nova Scotia, and that is of the payday loans industry. It's an industry that's built on institutes that allocate to mostly lower income earners. These people are struggling with cash-flow problems and find themselves in need of payday loans until payday. The interest rates, however, on some of these loans are numbered in the hundreds and thousands of percentage points. When all the fees and charges are rolled in, it's insurmountable for these people to catch up, and they're caught up in a cycle. My question to the minister is, will this minister tell the House how he can justify allowing these companies to run roughshod over the lives of ordinary Nova Scotians?

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, the honourable member raises a concern of this government. Indeed, it was referenced in the Party platform. What it will do is government will adopt some measures that will be needed to better protect consumers in reference to payday lenders.

MR. ZINCK: Mr. Speaker, I guess it is going to be another study by this government, while many people in this province are standing by caught up in a cycle that they cannot catch up in. Other provinces, like Manitoba and Ontario and B.C., along with 15 U.S. States, have come out with legislation. I, personally - this is how bad it has gotten - delivered groceries to

[Page 589]

a senior citizen the other night. When I asked for her Health Card to provide information for the food bank, out of her wallet came two cash cards. This is very detrimental to these people. They are short at the end of the month. My question is, why does your government, Mr. Minister, refuse to address the growing problem, as other provinces in Canada have now?

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, as I said in the first response, government is aware that there are concerns about payday lenders. I can tell you that, currently, the penalty for payday lenders - and some of them fall under the Criminal Code of Canada - there is a move by not only Nova Scotia but other ministers in the country who are responsible for consumer affairs to see that that penalty be moved from the federal government to the provincial government so provincial governments can better control regulations to benefit their citizens when it comes to payday lenders.

MR. ZINCK: Mr. Speaker, obviously the honourable minister does not understand that we need legislation now. There are people caught up in this cycle. To understand the full scope of this problem the minister only has to open up the Yellow Pages and flip through the many advertisements. Perhaps the minister could sit down with some of my constituents and express to them his concerns. I have constituents who are running away from these payday loan companies, they are changing addresses, they are changing phone numbers, in fear. They have defaulted on loans. We need legislation now, Mr. Minister. My final question is, how many situations like this will it take before this government reacts?

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, this government committed to introduce legislation modelled on what happened in Manitoba, and that will be done this Fall.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Queens.

ENVIRON. & LBR.: TOBEATIC MGT. PLAN - IMPLEMENT

MS. VICKI CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Environment and Labour. In April 2004, the Department of Environment and Labour released the Tobeatic Wilderness Area Draft Management Plan. This plan was developed following a long period of public consultation that heard from various community stakeholders. The draft management plan is, itself, a testimony to the hard work, negotiating, and necessary compromises needed to bring this plan forward. My question for the Minister of Environment and Labour is, when will he implement the Tobeatic management plan as written?

HON. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. The proper management and use of the Tobeatic Wilderness Area is a priority for this department, and we are working on that as we speak. The member may be interested to know that in terms of the campsites that are there and the voluntary campsite removal program, we are at over 50 per cent now.

[Page 590]

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, to best protect the Tobeatic and other wilderness areas, changes need to be made to the Wilderness Areas Protection Act now, to remove the broad-ranging discretion of this minister in issuing permits for off-highway vehicle use. One of this minister's predecessors made a commitment in a letter to the Ecology Action Centre in January 2006 that I will table. In it he said that he would make needed changes to the Wildlife Areas Protection Act this past Spring. These changes were never made, and it is far too long. Will this minister keep the word of his predecessor and make the changes promised in this letter?

[12:15 p.m.]

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, the member may be glad to know that I have already set up meetings with the Tobeatic management wildlife group, and I will be meeting with them as soon as the House rises.

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, currently this minister has the discretion to issue permits allowing people to use off-highway vehicles in wilderness protected areas and if this minister is committed to meeting with the committee around the Tobeatic Wilderness Area, I would be most interested in attending that meeting as well. The Tobeatic is an area in the riding of Queens and I'd be most interested in being part of that. My question to this minister is, what is his position on the issuing of permits to allow the recreational use of off-highway vehicles in protected areas?

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, thank you for the question. The member may be happy to know that currently the department is working on a policy that I'll be bringing forward very soon.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

AGRIC.: HOG INDUSTRY - LONG-TERM PLAN

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Agriculture. While the price for hogs today is above the production costs, there are major concerns in the industry. In fact, the hog industry in Nova Scotia is in danger of disappearing. Whole families and communities are being affected by the industry's challenging situation. The government continues to show lack of action with regard to the long-term viability. In sessions past, myself and other members of the Liberal caucus have asked questions to the two previous ministers responsible for this department without any clear answer, so I'm hoping today to get something concise out of the third Minister of Agriculture this year. My question to the minister is, what is your government's plan to help for the long-term, to keep the industry in Nova Scotia?

HON. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, to the honourable member, I do share his concern and to all members in this Legislature regarding the hog industry. This government has

[Page 591]

met with the industry. Pork Nova Scotia is working on a long-term strategy and since last November, this government has put $2.7 million into Pork Nova Scotia.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, Pork Nova Scotia has a three- to five-year plan that would indeed restructure the industry. They see this as a model which can revitalize this important sector of agriculture in Nova Scotia. This plan could make the industry strong and give them the opportunity to stop asking the government for help in the future. They are tired of patchwork money, although well appreciated. They need a commitment from this government. My question to the minister is, will your government commit to a three-year price stabilization program to correspond with Pork Nova Scotia's restructuring program?

MR. TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, to the honourable member again, I want to repeat that we are in receipt of a long-term strategy that has been offered by Pork Nova Scotia. We're working with the industry and I can't, at this particular time, commit to the three-year strategy that the honourable member is asking, but this government is giving consideration to the hog industry and the concerns that they have. They have several input costs that are much higher than other provinces across the country of Canada. We recognize that, for example, grain costs Nova Scotia farmers, especially the hog industry, a lot more than it does farmers in the West. There are a lot of things to be considered, but I can tell you that we're going to work as close we can with that industry and that member in bringing this to some positive resolution.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, let me provide the House of Assembly with some examples of why the hog industry needs a commitment from government. Since January 2006, 75 employees at Larsen's have left due to the uncertain future of the industry; 1,500 people rely on this industry in Nova Scotia, which accumulates to over $100 million to the provincial economy. Long-term viability of this industry is undecided, and only this government can help to ensure its future by adopting the program submitted by Pork Nova Scotia. My question to the minister is, will your government acknowledge the importance of a long-term stabilization program for the hog industry and ensure that the pork production plant in Berwick stays open?

MR. TAYLOR: I would politely offer to the honourable member for Kings West that it seems as if we're all experts at identifying the problems that are facing the hog industry. What we really have to do is work hard and find a solution. We are in receipt and we have to give that some deliberation and this government will do that - I can promise the honourable member that, but at this particular time it wouldn't be appropriate. It would be irresponsible to suggest that we could make a three-year commitment on the floor of this Legislature; I simply cannot do that.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants East.

[Page 592]

HEALTH PROM. & PROT.: E. HANTS SPORTSPLEX - EXPANSION

MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, my question will be for the present Premier and former Minister of Health Promotion. I live in and represent one of the fastest growing areas of this province, and two years ago I brought to the now Premier a project proposal for the East Hants Sportsplex expansion. During the recent election campaign the Premier announced funding for three facilities - Windsor, Berwick and Rocky Lake - but, alas, not the East Hants Sportsplex. My question to the Premier - who actually referred to the sportsplex expansion with support during the recent campaign - can the residents of East Hants still count on your support for the funding of the expansion project?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, first of all I would agree with the member that this government is doing many great projects all across our province. Secondly, I'm aware that this project is very important in the local community. It has been raised to me by a number of people, including the member himself, and I know that the Office of Health Promotion and Protection is indeed reviewing that project, along with many other projects.

MR. MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I don't think I heard a yes.

This question will be for the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection. The board of directors has hit its funding targets with the present facility - they paid it off in the time planned. The facility has no debt, and actually it has about $350,000 in the bank. The directors have been told that they are in the queue as far as in the stream to get to the Cabinet with a request for funding. So can the minister tell me where in the process the East Hants Sportsplex expansion is on its way to Cabinet?

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I will tell the member opposite that they made an application to the province through the RFD program only this Spring, just a couple of months ago. Unlike the other projects that the member referred to, they have made applications in some cases a couple of years ago and have gone through the process. I will tell the member that the process will follow through the normal course where there's an evaluation by staff, a recommendation to me as minister, then subsequently to Cabinet for approval, and that's what will happen.

MR. MACDONELL: I will just remind the present minister that I took this to the former minister a couple of years ago.

The Municipality of East Hants has gone on record as offering $3.5 million toward the expansion project and the directors are seeking to have that matched by the federal and provincial governments. The catchment of this facility reaches into the areas for the member for Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley as well as the member for Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank. In light of your recent commitments in other communities, can the directors of the East

[Page 593]

Hants Sportsplex expect their proposal to get to the Cabinet Table this year - and I put that to the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection.

MR. BARNET: Mr. Speaker, what I'll say to the member opposite is that I have met with the executive director, Steve Pottie, on a couple of occasions. We've talked about this particular project. I know that it's important to the community, and I know that investment in infrastructure like that is important to Nova Scotia and to the health and the well-being of communities in Nova Scotia. It's part of what we do in Health Promotion and Protection. We'll follow through the normal process, and we will move all projects forward through the normal process as time and money permit us to do so.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou West.

SERV. N.S. & MUN. REL. - SHERBROOKE: BUS SERVICE - FUNDING

MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. In 2005, Zinck's Bus Service applied to abandon its route between Sherbrooke and Halifax. This department's Community Transportation Assistance Program granted $20,300 of funding to help the Eastern HRM Partnership Council keep that operation in place. In May of this year a new operator was found to improve service, but to everybody's surprise the province denied the funding application for 2006-07 and there will be no service come the end of September. So my question to the minister is, why did your department deny funding for this important service?

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, the answer really is that the application didn't meet the criteria, for the money available. As the honorable member knows, transportation of that type became a municipal responsibility during service exchange.

MR. PARKER: Mr. Speaker, this piece of transportation infrastructure cannot be allowed to slip away. In fact, just during the election campaign, the government promised, and I'll quote from their election campaign piece, the government promised that they would, "Work with the federal government and interested municipalities to increase the capacity of public transit services - by bus, ferry or rail - in high traffic or remote areas." I'll table that, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, what we have here is a group of dedicated individuals who want nothing more than what this government has committed to them during this past election campaign. So, how does this minister intend on keeping his government's campaign commitment?

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, as I said in the answer to the first question, the request did not meet the criteria for the monies available, that this was part of service exchange and that particular responsibility goes to the municipality. However, I do believe that his petition should really be going to HRM, which is about to receive considerable money from that federal gas

[Page 594]

tax rebate that is to be used for transportation. So HRM, I believe, is going to have an additional - they're getting about half of the money that is coming into the province and it is something like $30 million.

MR. PARKER: Mr. Speaker, I'm not asking the minister to pass the buck here, I'm simply asking him to allow to keep the service, to use it as an example for other communities in this province. This bus service has a direct impact on the economy of the Eastern Shore and the health and welfare of local residents. It seems illogical that this service may be lost through the refusal over the government's funding. So my question to the minister is, if the current funding framework doesn't fit, will he work to develop one that will provide public transit options for the people along the Eastern Shore and throughout rural Nova Scotia?

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, the service exchange was worked out with the municipalities and that type of transportation was passed to the municipalities. Fortunately, there is money now flowing from the federal government and there will be a fair bit of money flowing to HRM, and HRM is going to have to make the decision as to whether they are going to fund that particular transportation system. I agree, I would like to see that service continue, but it is the responsibility of the municipality.

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

NAT. RES.: BLUE MTN. - BIRCH COVE LAKES LANDS - PROTECTION

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, my question today is for the Minister of Natural Resources. On June 27th of this year, the Halifax Regional Municipality concluded their debate that has gone on for many years, and they finally adopted their 25-year regional plan. In doing that, they involved an extensive amount of community consultation and spoke to many partners along the way. Of great interest to the Clayton Park riding and in fact, all of the western region of HRM, is the inclusion of a new regional park in the Blue Mountain Birch Cove Lakes area. In fact, not long ago I brought a petition here to the Legislature with 1,500 names, asking for that to take place.

After long and careful consideration, the HRM has now recognized the importance of these lands and the rapidly growing suburbs, and they've mapped out an area that would meet the criteria for a wilderness park and I would like to just table that map if I could, just so that the minister will have a copy. A good part of the lands mapped out are actually provincial Crown lands and they require the co-operation of the Government of Nova Scotia in order to be protected. So my question to the Minister of Natural Resources is, can the minister tell the House today if there have been discussions with HRM around these provincial lands and having them protected as part of the new regional plan?

[Page 595]

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for her question and we look forward to hearing from HRM on their wishes in that regard, and we'd be pleased to discuss it with them.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to address my second question again to the Minister of Natural Resources. I wonder if the minister could clarify please, for the House, if you personally are aware of these lands and have any discussions already taken place about the protection of the Blue Mountain- Birch Cove Lakes in consultation with HRM?

[12:30 p.m.]

MR. MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I am aware that there has been some interest in those lands for quite some time that actually predates the member's time in this House.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to address my third question to the Minister of Environment and Labour. The Public Lands Coalition of Nova Scotia identified the Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes as the number one priority for public land that should be protected in this province. The reason for that is it suffers from a great deal of development pressure all around its edges. The value of the land is skyrocketing and there's a lot of temptation to trade or sell the land, and the Public Lands Coalition has said clearly it should be protected. The passing of the regional plan sends a strong signal to the Department of Environment and Labour that the time is right now to move on the protection of these lands.

My question to the minister is, will the minister indicate if he has a formal plan in place to work with HRM to advance these issues that overlap with the Department of Environment and Labour and has he established a committee to advance this particular progress?

HON. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for her question. We're looking forward to discussing with HRM their future concerns. The plan was just released a couple of weeks ago to my understanding. I want to let the member know that we're committed to 12 per cent of the land mass of Nova Scotia being protected and since, in the last 16 months alone, 12,000 additional hectares of land throughout this province has been protected and there is more to come.

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

DNR: MCNABS ISLAND - CAMPSITES REOPEN

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. (Interruption) That's right. McNabs Island is a part of the community of Eastern Passage and there are traditional campsites that have been there for an extended period of time, but in the recent past the Department of Natural Resources announced that they were going to close all the campsites on the island, then they relocated the campsites and banned camping in

[Page 596]

areas that are traditionally campsites for the people of Eastern Passage. I want to ask the Minister of Natural Resources, is he willing to reconsider that decision and ensure that those traditional campsites are reopened for the people of Eastern Passage?

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for his question. Actually there's a citizen's group with the McNabs and Lawlor Islands' community group that has actually been working with the department. They put forward a suggestive plan, this is an interim measure to open up 10 campsites on the island. You can now book a campsite in advance through the Waverley office by simply calling them. This is not necessarily going to be the final park plan but this is something that was recommended by the community.

MR. DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, this is area that has been used by the people of Eastern Passage as campgrounds in the summer for 250 years. The people in that community want those campsites back and it's important that they get them.

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

The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, I'd like to draw the attention of the members to the west gallery - we have two guests with us today. The first guest with us is Mat Whynott, who is a past Page of this House and actually our candidate in the last election. With him is Mr. Bill Swan, who is actually head of a parent group trying to ensure a safe route for their children to make it to school in the Kingswood area of our province. I'd like them to stand and be recognized by the House.

MR. SPEAKER: Indeed, welcome to our guests and all guests in the gallery today in the House.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Government Motions.

GOVERNMENT MOTIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 597]

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and that the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Supply unto Her Majesty.

For the information of members the committee and the subcommittee will be sitting for eight hours today.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is carried.

[12:35 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Supply with Deputy Speaker Mr. Chuck Porter in the Chair.]

[8:42 p.m. CWH on Supply rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Cecil Clarke, resumed the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER: The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Supply reports:

THE CLERK: That the committee has met and made progress and begs leave to sit again.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, could I ask for the unanimous consent of the House to revert to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request to revert to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. WILLIAM DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to present to the House the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board Annual Report 2005-06.

[Page 598]

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable Government House Leader.

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

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[8:45 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Chuck Porter in the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER: The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:

THE CLERK: That the committee has met and considered the following bills:

Bill No. 1 - Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act.

Bill No. 10 - Protection from Illegal Drugs Act.

Bill No. 13 - Safer Needles in Healthcare Workplaces Act.

Bill No. 16 - Police and Peace Officers' Memorial Day Act.

Bill No. 19 - Personal Information International Disclosure Protection Act.

Bill No. 24 - Agriculture and Marketing Act.

Bill No. 31 - Financial Measures (2006) Act.

Bill No. 34 - Maritime Conservatory Reorganization Act.

Bill No. 45 - Labour Standards Code.

Bill No. 47 - House of Assembly Act.

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

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

[Page 599]

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now rise to meet on the morrow commencing at 9:00 a.m. and ostensibly sitting until 5:00 p.m., but I suspect that the government business will be somewhat shorter than that. The order of business will be the completion of Supply both in the Chamber and in the subcommittee, which will be followed by a vote on the budget, the Appropriations Act, and third reading of bills.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for the House to now rise and meet tomorrow at the hour of 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

We stand adjourned.

[The House rose at 8:59 p.m.]

[Page 600]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 292

By: Hon. Ernest Fage

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

Whereas Wendell and Geraldine Smith were recently presented the John VanVulpen Memorial Award as Cumberland County's farmers of the year at the Federation of Agriculture's annual banquet held at the Nappan Pavillion; and

Whereas the Smiths own and operate a successful beef farm along with a thriving blueberry and maple business; and

Whereas Wendell started his maple operation at age 19 with 900 taps, and he now has over 60,000 taps and his blueberry operation started 30 years ago, with 350 acres in production today - the Smith family are very passionate about agriculture and they prove this daily with dedication and hard work;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in sending our congratulations to Wendell, Geraldine and sons for earning and receiving this prestigious award.

RESOLUTION NO. 293

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Lakeside Child Care Centre has opened for business at 1440 St. Margarets Bay Road; and

Whereas Kelly Skinner has shown great initiative by beginning this business; and

Whereas the Lakeside Child Care Centre is providing a valuable service to our community;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Kelly Skinner and all those involved with the Lakeside Child Care Centre with best wishes for much success in their future endeavours.

[Page 601]

RESOLUTION NO. 294

By: Mr. John MacDonell (Hants East)

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

Whereas volunteering is a community service not limited to the experienced; and

Whereas Mr. Justin Bond of Rawdon, a Grade 11 student, has been active for several years as a junior firefighter, a canvasser for two well-known societies, and helps out with the ladies auxiliary; and

Whereas on April 28, 2006, Mr. Bond was recognized by the Municipality of East Hants with a Shining Star Award for his outstanding contributions;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Bond on his award and for his willingness to help where needed.

RESOLUTION NO. 295

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas on March 1, 2006, I had the pleasure to attend the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new 25,000 square foot location of Nubody's Fitness Centre; and

Whereas the expanded Burnside Club features modern fitness equipment, including a 30-minute circuit training area, a cycling studio and offers nutrition programs and qualified staff available to design safe and effective programs; and

Whereas Nubody's was founded in Dartmouth in 1983 and is ranked in the Top 100 Companies in Atlantic Canada and in the Top 75 Fitness Centre Chains in North America;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly congratulate the management and staff of Nubody's Burnside Superclub on their grand opening and wish them much success in the future.

[Page 602]

RESOLUTION NO. 296

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas Walter Borden, an internationally renowned theatre artist from New Glasgow was recognized for his contribution to the arts by receiving the Nova Scotia Portia White Prize; and

Whereas throughout his 40-year career, Mr. Borden has been an activist and advocate for Black artists and is an extraordinary cultural ambassador for our province; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Portia White Prize recognizes artistic excellence and achievement by a Nova Scotia artist;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this Legislative Assembly congratulate Mr. Walter Borden on receiving the Portia White Prize and wish him much success in all his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 297

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas on May 6, 2006, Ian Forsyth Elementary School held its 10th Annual Fundraising Auction at the Celtic Corner Pub; and

Whereas this and past school auctions have always been tremendously successful; and

Whereas proceeds from these auctions enable Ian Forsyth school to purchase additional reading and math resources, support school field trips as well as provides funds to enhance their technology program;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly congratulate all those involved in the Ian Forsyth Elementary School 10th Annual Fundraising Auction and thank them for all their work supporting students in our community.

[Page 603]

RESOLUTION NO. 298

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas 21 years ago a group of students and staff formed a society called PAWEECA, the Prince Andrew Woodlawn Environmental Enhancement and Conservation Association; and

Whereas this is the only federally recognized non-profit student-run charity in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas they have raised funds for Hurricane Katrina relief, volunteered with the Dartmouth Senior's Centre Telethon and are working on a Dominica School Supplies project;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly thank Prince Andrew Woodlawn Environmental Enhancement and Conservation Association members for all the work they do in our local communities and those communities across the globe and wish them much success in all their current and future projects.

RESOLUTION NO. 299

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas on June 21, 2006, I had the pleasure to attend the retirement celebration for Eric Graves Memorial Junior High School teacher Selma Vineberg at the Brightwood Golf and Country Club; and

Whereas the staff of Eric Graves Memorial Junior High School and friends and family of Selma enjoyed an evening of good food, good friends and good stories; and

Whereas Selma has always expressed a passion for teaching and a love of children during her 33 years of teaching;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly thank Selma Vineberg for the time she has given to our community and our children as a teacher and wish her a wonderful retirement.

[Page 604]

RESOLUTION NO. 300

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas on Thursday, May 18, 2006, I had the pleasure to attend the Dartmouth Seniors' Service Centre's 11th Annual Lobsterfest; and

Whereas the Dartmouth Seniors' Service Centre has been providing activities and services not otherwise available in their community since 1976; and

Whereas their mission is to enhance the well-being and quality of life for older adults living in our community by providing a safe, welcoming, positive, learning environment for everyone;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly congratulates the Dartmouth Senior's Service Centre on a successful Lobsterfest and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 301

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas on June 14, 2006, the community visited Caledonia Junior High School to view the detailed plans for the new East Dartmouth Community Centre; and

Whereas the community centre will house the Boys and Girls Club of East Dartmouth, a variety of community meeting rooms, a gymnasium and a regional police office among many other things; and

Whereas the community has been patiently waiting since the 1980s to have the project approved;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly thank the East Dartmouth Recreation Centre Society for their hard work in the creation of the new East Dartmouth Community Centre, and congratulate them on this achievement.

[Page 605]

RESOLUTION NO. 302

By: Ms. Joan Massey (Dartmouth East)

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

Whereas on Saturday, June 3, 2006, I had the pleasure to attend the Spring Fair at Ian Forsyth Elementary School; and

Whereas the Spring Fair was attended by many children and community members who enjoyed a fun-filled day while supporting their school; and

Whereas the Spring Fair raised approximately $10,000;

Therefore be it resolved that this Legislative Assembly congratulate all those involved in making the Ian Forsyth Elementary School Spring Fair a great success and thank them for supporting their community.

RESOLUTION NO. 303

By: Mr. Keith Bain (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Betty Farrell is looking forward to her new job as principal of Boularderie School in Boularderie this September; and

Whereas Betty is one of 21 principals appointed by the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board for 2006-07; and

Whereas the principal is the educational leader of the school, responsible for all course programs, the well-being of the students and development of the teaching staff;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Betty Farrell on her new challenge, wish her continued success and thank her for her dedication and commitment to the education of our youth.

[Page 606]

RESOLUTION NO. 304

By: Mr. Keith Bain (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Chris Nicholson is looking forward to his new job as principal of Rankin Memorial School in Iona this September; and

Whereas Chris is one of 21principals appointed by the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board for 2006-07; and

Whereas the principal is the educational leader of the school, responsible for all course programs, the well-being of the students and development of the teaching staff;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Chris Nicholson on his new challenge, wish him continued success and thank him for his dedication and commitment to the education of our youth.

RESOLUTION NO. 305

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Immigration)

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; and

Whereas participating in sports and recreational activities is encouraged for all age levels; and

Whereas nine students from Parkview Education Centre took 1st place honours in several different categories at the Regional Track and Field Meet. Rachael Pineo in the intermediate girls pole vault, Zach Haughn in shot put, Will MacNeil in the triple jump, Laura Himmelman in hurdles, Laura Strickland in javelin, Caitlin Creaser in the senior girls pole vault, Brad Veinotte in the 800 and 1500 metre event, Ryan Swim in discus, and Scott Selig in pole vault;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate all these exceptional students from Parkview Education Centre who represented their school in the highest capacity possible in the Regional Track and Field Meet.

[Page 607]

RESOLUTION NO. 306

By: Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson (Immigration)

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; and

Whereas participating in sports and recreational activities is encouraged for all age levels; and

Whereas three students from Hebbville Academy took 1st place honours in different levels of competitions: Cameron McLennan for the 800 metre race, Kelsey Croft for hurdles, and Mattias Wolter for the 1500 and the 3000 metre races;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Hebbville Academy students Cameron McLennan, Kelsey Croft and Mattias Wolter on their exceptional performances at the 2006 Regional Track and Field Meet.

RESOLUTION NO. 307

By: Hon. Brooke Taylor (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Chef Michael Howell of Tempest restaurant in Wolfville has been creating mouth-watering menu items for patrons of his restaurant since 2003; and

Whereas his culinary talent has garnered an invitation to the renowned international James Beard Society in New York where every year 100 chefs from around the world are invited to cook for discerning diners; and

Whereas Chef Michael plans a menu of Nova Scotia agricultural food and wines;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Chef Michael on receiving this prestigious invitation and for his choice to use Nova Scotia product.

[Page 608]

RESOLUTION NO. 308

By: Hon. James Muir (Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Community College Truro Campus has completed renovations to refurbish and modernize the campus library to provide easier access and make staff more visible; and

Whereas these renovations are part of the province's $123 million investment to improve and expand our community college campuses across the province; and

Whereas Kevin Quinlan, President of the Truro Campus of the Nova Scotia Community College, has been instrumental in the expansion and restructuring of his campus facilities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge the renovation and expansion work at the Truro Campus of the Nova Scotia Community College and the vision of its principal, Dr. Kevin Quinlan.

RESOLUTION NO. 309

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas on July 8th and 9th a team of four girls from Oxford competed in an NBA 3 on 3 Tournament in Moncton, New Brunswick; and

Whereas the girls were registered in the 12 and under category and were all team members from the Oxford Mini Golden Bears Basketball Nova Scotia Provincial Champion 2006 team; and

Whereas the team included Madison Swan, Emily Davis, Cassie Newell and Heidi Dormiedy;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate these girls on this outstanding achievement and wish them continued success in all future endeavours.

[Page 609]

RESOLUTION NO. 310

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas James Black, a student at Oxford Elementary School was recognized by his teachers for a very worthwhile achievement for his 2005-06 year; and

Whereas James has gone through this entire school year without missing one day, earning him a certificate for perfect attendance for the academic year; and

Whereas James was one of five students at Oxford Elementary that achieved this incredible goal;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate James Black on this outstanding achievement and wish him all the best next year and all the years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 311

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Jordan Graves, a student at Oxford Elementary School, was recognized by his teachers for a very worthwhile achievement for his 2005-06 year; and

Whereas Jordan has gone through this entire school year without missing one day, earning him a certificate for perfect attendance for the academic year; and

Whereas Jordan was one of five students at Oxford Elementary who achieved this incredible goal;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Jordan Graves on this outstanding achievement and wish him all the best next year and in all the years to come.

[Page 610]

RESOLUTION NO. 312

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Kathryn Hickman, a student at Oxford Elementary School, was recognized by her teachers for a very worthwhile achievement for her 2005-06 year; and

Whereas Kathryn has gone through this entire school year without missing one day, earning her a certificate for perfect attendance for the academic year; and

Whereas Kathryn was one of five students at Oxford Elementary who achieved this incredible goal;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Kathryn Hickman on this outstanding achievement and wish her all the best next year and in all the years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 313

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Colby Hicks, a student at Oxford Elementary School, was recognized by his teachers for a very worthwhile achievement for his 2005-06 year; and

Whereas Colby has gone through this entire school year without missing one day, earning him a certificate for perfect attendance for the academic year; and

Whereas Colby was one of five students at Oxford Elementary who achieved this incredible goal;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Colby Hicks on this outstanding achievement and wish him all the best next year and in all the years to come.

[Page 611]

RESOLUTION NO. 314

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Mallory Thompson, a student at Oxford Elementary School, was recognized by her teachers for a very worthwhile achievement for her 2005-06 year; and

Whereas Mallory has gone through this entire school year without missing one day, earning her a certificate for perfect attendance for the academic year; and

Whereas Mallory was one of five students at Oxford Elementary who achieved this incredible goal;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Mallory Thompson on this outstanding achievement and wish her all the best next year and in all the years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 315

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Toni Reade of Oxford is one of eight university students to receive financial support from the Cumberland Health Authority and its five health care foundations; and

Whereas Miss Reade, an Oxford Regional High School graduate, is entering her third year of the Bachelor of Science nursing degree program at St. Francis Xavier University; and

Whereas the CHA bursary program is open to Cumberland County students only, and under the terms and conditions the successful applicant will receive a bursary of up to $4,000 a year;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Toni Reade on receiving this bursary and wish her all the best with her chosen career.

[Page 612]

RESOLUTION NO. 316

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Megan Fahey, a former Oxford Regional High School graduate, has graduated as a Child and Youth Care Worker from Holland College, Prince Edward Island; and

Whereas Megan was also selected as valedictorian on behalf of the college; and

Whereas Megan plans to work with the Eastern School District in Prince Edward Island, and we are sure that she will be an exceptional addition to the school district;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Megan Fahey on her outstanding achievements and wish her all the best in her chosen career.