November 23, 2006

HANSARD 06-30

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, NOVEMBER 23, 2006

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
SPEAKER'S RULING: Unparliamentary attacks against Liberal MLAs
and the Liberal Party of Nova Scotia (Pt. of privilege by
Mr. M. Samson [Hansard p.2387, 11/22/06]
Ruling Prima Facie Case of Privilege 2500
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
TPW: Eskasoni Rd. - Repair, Mr. A. MacLeod 2502
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS:
Rept. on Affirmative Action Diversity in Nova Scotia Public
Service, Hon. E. Fage 2502^
Nova Scotia Arts and Culture Partnership Council Rept.,
Hon. L. Goucher 2503
Anl. Rept. of the NSLC (2005-2006), Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 2503
Anl. Rept. of South Shore District Health Authority,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of South West Nova District Health Authority,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Annapolis Valley District Health Authority,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Colchester East Hants District Health Authority,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Cumberland Health Authority, Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Cumberland Health Authority, Hon. C. d'Entremont
Anl. Rept. of Pictou County Health Authority, Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Cape Breton District Health Authority,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of Capital District Health Authority, Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. of the IWK, Hon. C. d'Entremont 2503
Anl. Rept. on the Civil Service Disclosure of Wrongdoing Regulations
And Policy (2005-2006), Hon. E. Fage 2503
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
Gov't. (N.S.) - Heating Fuels: Tax - Remove, Mr. K. Deveaux 2504
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1220, Legislative Staff Efforts Applaud, The Premier 2504
Vote - Affirmative 2505
Res. 1221, Democratic Process Participation: Select Committee
Establish, Hon. M. Baker 2505
Vote - Affirmative 2507
Res. 1222, Positive Parenting Prog.: Participants - Congrats.,
Hon. B. Barnet 2507
Vote - Affirmative 2508
Res. 1223, Kelly, Stephen - Aliant New Media Prize,
Hon. L Goucher 2508
Vote - Affirmative 2508
Res. 1224, Fish & Aquaculture - Lobster Fishermen: Contribution -
Recognize, Hon. R. Chisholm 2508
Vote - Affirmative 2509
Res. 1225, Women, Status of - Purple Ribbon Campaign,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 2509
Vote - Affirmative 2510
Res. 1226, Family Youth Achievement Awards: Recipients -
Congrats., Hon. J. Streatch 2510
Vote - Affirmative 2511
Res. 1227, Imhotep's Legacy Proj.: Participants/Partners -
Congrats., Hon. B. Barnet 2511
Vote - Affirmative 2512
Res. 1228, Cultural Advisory Comm. - Commonwealth Games Bid:
Commitment - Thank, Hon. L. Goucher 2512
Vote - Affirmative 2513^
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 124, St. John's Anglican Church Lands Act, Hon. M. Baker 2513
No. 125, Retail Workers' Right to Refuse Work Act,
Mr. D. Dexter 2513
No. 126, Health Facilities Licensing Act,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2513
No. 127, Human Rights Act, Mr. K. Deveaux 2513
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1229, Bridges Prog.: Vol. Congrats., Mr. J. MacDonell 2513
Vote - Affirmative 2514
Res. 1230, LeBlanc, Mireille - Golf Championship, Mr. W. Gaudet 2514
Vote - Affirmative 2514
Res. 1231, MacLean, Fraser & Sterling/Wear Well Garments Co.:
Bus. Experience - Congrats., Mr. P. Dunn 2515
Vote - Affirmative 2515
Res. 1232, West Branch Commun. Assoc.: Flag Raising -
Congrats., Mr. C. Parker 2516
Vote - Affirmative 2516
Res. 1233, Nat. Res: Off-Hwy Vehicle Regs. - Clarify,
Mr. L. Glavine 2516
Res. 1234, C. B. Int'l. Drum Fest.: Organizers - Congrats.,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2517
Vote - Affirmative 2518
Res. 1235, Internet Access - Rural N.S.: Commitment - Reconfirm,
Mr. S. McNeil 2519
Res. 1236, Pictou Co. Municipalities Crime Prevention Assoc.:
Formation - Congrats., Mr. P. Dunn 2519
Vote - Affirmative 2520
Res. 1237, Marine Atlantic: Bilingual Position - Examine,
Mr. G. Gosse 2520
Vote - Affirmative 2521
Res. 1238, TPW: Alder Bush Problem - Funding, Mr. H. Theriault 2521
Res. 1239, LeMoine, Germaine/Cranberry Cove Inn -
Excellence in Business Award, Mr. A. MacLeod 2522
Vote - Affirmative 2523
Res. 1240, Savage, Margaret: Memory - Applaud/Celebrate,
Mr. T. Zinck 2523
Vote - Affirmative 2524
Vote - Affirmative
Res. 1241, Burgess, Ken & Andrea/Burgess Fur-InRich BDC
Award, Mr. M. Samson 2524
Vote - Affirmative 2524
Res. 1242, Adams, Meagan/Quigley - Atkinson Mem. Award,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 2525
Vote - Affirmative 2525
Res. 1243, Environ. & Lbr.: House of Assembly - Electronic:
Circulation, Ms. M. Raymond 2525
Res. 1244, Gov't. (N.S.) - Crosswalk Safety: Drivers/Pedestrians -
Educate, Ms. D. Whalen 2526
Vote - Affirmative 2527
Res. 1245, Light Up Bedford Parade: Participants - Congrats.,
Hon. L. Goucher 2527
Vote - Affirmative 2527
Res. 1246, Petite Riviere/United Communities Fire Halls:
Vols. - Recognize, Ms. V. Conrad 2528
Vote - Affirmative 2528
Res. 1247, Belliveau Motors - Run for the Cure: Sponsorship -
Thank, Mr. W. Gaudet 2528
Vote - Affirmative 2529
Res. 1248, Grant, Alex: Team Can. Gold Medal - Congrats.,
Hon. A. MacIsaac 2529
Vote - Affirmative 2530
Res. 1249, Lill, Wendy/Vingo, Mary: Shimera - World Premiere,
Ms. M. More 2530
Vote - Affirmative 2531
Res. 1250, Boudreau, Delores: Album Release - Congrats.,
Mr. M. Samson 2531
Vote - Affirmative 2531
Res. 1251, Cumberland Spartans Swim Team - Congrats.,
Hon. E. Fage 2532
Vote - Affirmative 2532
Res. 1252, Trinity United Church: Tree Lighting Christmas
Celebration - Congrats., Mr. W. Estabrooks 2532
Vote - Affirmative 2533
Res. 1253, Graham, Gordon & Edna: Commun. Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. L. Glavine 2533
Vote - Affirmative 2534
Vote - Affirmative
Res. 1254, Pugsley, Alice - Women of Excellence Award,
Hon. K. Casey 2534
Vote - Affirmative 2535
Res. 1255, Grout, Jennifer/Carillon Singers/Accompanists -
Commend, Mr. C. MacKinnon 2535
Vote - Affirmative 2535
Res. 1256, Conserve N.S. - Fuel Efficient Cars: Tax Credit -
Announce, Ms. D. Whalen 2535
Res. 1257, Islands & Dist. FD/Area Vol. FDs - Station Fire:
Response - Commend, Hon. C. d'Entremont 2536
Vote - Affirmative 2537
Res. 1258, Boys & Girls Club (Dart.): Efforts - Recognize,
Mr. T. Zinck 2537
Vote - Affirmative 2538
Res. 1259, Digby-Annapolis MLA - Alders: Woodcock Bird -
Attract, Hon. B. Taylor 2538
Res. 1260, York Redoubt: Preservation - Support, Ms. M. Raymond 2538
Vote - Affirmative 2539
Res. 1261, Nova Scotia Song - Anniv. (75th), Ms. M. More 2539
Res. 1262, Anderson, Bryon/Staff/Supporters:Metro Non-Profit
Coffee Shop - Congrats, (by Mr. K. Deveaux)
Ms. Maureen MacDonald 2540
Vote - Affirmative 2541
ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS:
No. 292, Prem.: Broadband Implementation - Rural N.S.,
Mr. D. Dexter 2541
No. 293, Serv. N.S. & Mun. Rel.: Gas Regulation - Failure
Admit, Mr. M. Samson 2542
No. 294, TPW - Moore's Landing: Permit Requests - Refusal
Explain, Mr. D. Dexter 2544
No. 295, Environ. & Lbr.: HRM Pension Comm. - Concerns,
Mr. G. Steele 2545
No. 296, Nat. Res.: ATV Closed Courses - Promotion,
Mr. L. Glavine 2547
No. 297, Environ. & Labour.: WCB - Chronic Pain Compensation,
Mr. C. MacKinnon 2548
Mr. C. MacKinnon
No. 298, NSP: Renewable Energy - Initiatives, Mr. F. Corbett 2549
No. 299, Educ. - ESL: Funding - Adequacy, Ms. D. Whalen 2550
No. 300, Health - Horne Case: Reinstatement - Details, Mr. L. Preyra 2552
No. 301, Service N.S. & Mun. Rel.: Bridgetown Fire Hall -
Funding, Mr. S. McNeil 2553
No. 302, Environ. & Lbr. - Minimum Wage: Increase - Time Frame,
Ms. V. Conrad 2554
No. 303, Health: Technical Aids Prog. - Establish, Ms. M. Raymond 2555
No. 304, Immigration - Immigrant Children: ESL Needs - Address,
Ms. D. Whalen 2557
No. 305, Health - Brimicombe Case: Home Care - Details,
Mr. J. MacDonell 2558
No. 306, Health: Seniors Pharmacare - Affordability,
Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid) 2559
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
PRIVATE MEMBERS' PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 91, Trade Union Act 2562
Mr. Manning MacDonald 2562
Mr. G. Gosse 2562
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 2562
Mr. Manning MacDonald 2562
Vote - Affirmative 2563
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 1:26 P.M. 2563
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 2:02 P.M. 2563
CWH REPORTS 2563
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
Private and Local Bills Comm., Mr. C. Parker 2565^
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 2:06 P.M. 2565
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 2:08 P.M 2565
CWH REPORTS 2565
PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 7, Registered Nurses Act 2566
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2566
Vote - Affirmative 2567
No. 9, Municipal Government Act 2567
Hon. J. Muir 2567
Mr. K. Deveaux 2567
Ms. D. Whalen 2568
Ms. D. Whalen
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2568
Mr. M. Samson 2568
Vote - Affirmative 2569
No. 11, Licensed Practical Nurses Act 2569
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2569
Vote - Affirmative 2570
No. 12, Education Act 2570
Hon. K. Casey 2570
Vote - Affirmative 2570
No. 15, Municipal Government Act 2570
Hon. J. Muir 2570
Vote - Affirmative 2571
No. 20, Public Utilities Act 2571
Hon. M. Parent 2571
Vote - Affirmative 2571
No. 22, Motor Vehicle Act 2571
Hon. A. MacIsaac 2571
Mr. C. Parker 2571
Vote - Affirmative 2572
No. 67, Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act 2572
Hon. K. Casey 2572
Mr. W. Estabrooks 2572
Mr. K. Colwell 2573
Vote - Affirmative 2573
No. 84, Wind Turbine Facilities Municipal Taxation Act 2573
Hon. J. Muir 2573
Mr. F. Corbett 2573
Ms. D. Whalen 2574
Mr. K. Colwell 2575
Vote - Affirmative 2576
No. 89, Provincial Court Act 2576
Hon. M. Scott 2576
Vote - Affirmative 2576
No. 107, Midwifery Act 2577
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2577
Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid) 2577
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 2578
Vote - Affirmative 2578
Vote - Affirmative
No. 5, Degree Granting Act 2578
Hon. K. Casey 2579
Mr. L. Preyra 2579
Vote - Affirmative 2580
No. 14, Public Service Act 2580
Mr. C. MacKinnon 2580
Mr. H. Theriault 2581
Mr. Manning MacDonald 2581
Mr. H. Epstein 2582
Vote - Affirmative 2583
No. 61, Motor Vehicle Act 2583
Hon. A. MacIsaac 2583
Mr. K. Deveaux 2583
Mr. S. McNeil 2584
Hon. M. Scott 2585
Vote - Affirmative 2586
No. 87, Consumer Protection Act 2586
Hon. J. Muir 2586
Mr. T. Zinck 2586
Vote - Affirmative 2587
No. 94, Property Valuation Services Corporation Act 2587
Hon. J. Muir 2587
Vote - Affirmative 2587
No. 95, Municipal Government Act 2587
Hon. J. Muir 2588
Vote - Affirmative 2588
No. 113, Environment Act 2588
Hon. M. Parent 2588
Mr. K. Deveaux 2588
Vote - Affirmative 2589
No. 114, Engineering Profession Act 2589
Hon. M. Baker 2589
Vote - Affirmative 2589
No. 115, Architects Act 2589
Hon. M. Baker 2589
Vote - Affirmative 2589
No. 119, Election Act 2590
Hon. M. Baker 2590
Vote - Affirmative 2590
Vote - Affirmative
No. 92, Assessment Act 2590
Hon. J. Muir 2590
Mr. P. Paris 2590
Mr. G. Steele 2591
Ms. D. Whalen 2592
Mr. W. Estabrooks 2594
Mr. K. Colwell 2596
Hon. M. Baker 2597
Vote - Affirmative 2598
PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 28, New Minas Water Commission Act 2598
Hon. D. Morse 2598
Vote - Affirmative 2598
No. 29, Temple Sons of Israel, Sydney Act 2598
Mr. G. Gosse 2599
Vote - Affirmative 2599
No. 41, Kingston Food Bank Act 2599
Mr. L. Glavine 2599
Vote - Affirmative 2599
No. 85, Board of Trustees of the Nova Scotia Freemasons' Home 2599
Hon. J. Muir 2599
Vote - Affirmative 2600
No. 72, Halifax Regional Water Commission Act 2600
Hon. B. Barnet 2600
Vote - Affirmative 2600
No. 88, Richmond Stora Enso Taxation Act 2600
Mr. M. Samson 2600
Vote - Affirmative 2601
No. 80, Canadian Forces Reservists Civilian Employment Act 2601
Mr. D. Dexter 2601
Mr. Manning MacDonald 2602
Hon. M. Scott 2602
Hon. M. Parent 2603
Mr. L. Glavine 2604
Vote - Affirmative 2604
No. 27, Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act 2604
Mr. S. Belliveau 2604
Mr. H. Theriault 2604
Vote - Affirmative 2605
Vote - Affirmative
No. 30, Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act 2605
Mr. M. Samson 2605
Vote - Affirmative 2606
No. 68, Pension Benefits Act 2606
Mr. M. Samson 2606
Ms. Maureen MacDonald 2606
Mr. M. Samson 2607
Vote - Affirmative 2608
No. 69, Maintenance Enforcement Act 2608
Mr. M. Samson 2608
Vote - Affirmative 2608
No. 70, Provincial Fish Act 2608
Mr. K. Colwell 2608
Vote - Affirmative 2608
No. 78, Order of Nova Scotia Act 2609
Mr. W. Gaudet 2609
Vote - Affirmative 2609
No. 83, Labour Standards Code 2609
Mr. K. Colwell 2609
Mr. K. Deveaux 2609
Vote - Affirmative 2610
No. 86, Motor Vehicle Act 2610
Mr. K. Colwell 2610
Vote - Affirmative 2611
HOUSED RECESSED AT 4:07 P.M. 2612
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 5:34 P.M. 2612
ARRIVAL OF LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR 2613
BILLS GIVEN ROYAL ASSENT:
Nos. 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 20, 21 2613
Nos. 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 41, 58, 61, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70 2614
Nos.^72, 75, 78, 80, 83, 84, 85 2614
Nos.^86, 87, 88, 89, 91, 92, 94, 95, 107, 113 2615
Nos. 114, 115, 119, 2615
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again at the call of the Speaker. 2618
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Res. 1263, Atl. Prov. Trucking Assoc.: Industry Work -
Compliment, Hon. B. Taylor 2619
Res. 1264, Hiltz, Kyle - Mahone Bay Town Clerk: Serv. - Thank,
Hon. M. Baker 2619
Res. 1265, Moreland, Capt. Dan/Picton Castle - Sail Training
Prog. of Yr., Hon. M. Baker 2620
Res. 1266, Tobin, Allen: Retirement - Best Wishes, Mr. P. Dunn 2620
Res. 1267, MacDonald, Judge Clyde: Book Publication -
Congrats., Mr. P. Dunn 2621
Res. 1268, Riverfront Jubilee Comm. (New Glasgow): Vols. -
Congrats., Mr. P. Dunn 2621
Res. 1269, Campbell, Barb - King Meadows: Serv. - Thank,
Mr. C. Porter 2622
Res. 1270, Clockmaker Inn - Dunham Fam.: Preservation -
Congrats., Mr. C. Porter 2622
Res. 1271, Benedict, Brandon - Winter Universiade: Participation -
Congrats., Mr. C. Porter 2623
Res. 1272, MacKenzie, Linzee - Pumpkin Weigh-Off: Win. -
Congrats., Mr. C. Porter 2623
Res. 1273, Bremner, Jim - Beef/Agric. Ind.: Dedication - Applaud,
Mr. C. Porter 2624
Res. 1274, Holleman, Alice: Fundraising - Applaud, Mr. C. Porter 2624
Res. 1275, Three Mile Plains Elem. Sch.: Lifestyle Init. - Commend,
Mr. C. Porter 2625
Res. 1276, Schofield, Roscoe: Building Proj. - Commend,
Mr. C. Porter 2625
Res. 1277, Lafarge Can. Inc.: Safety Record - Applaud,
Hon. B. Taylor 2626
Res. 1278, Hudson, Darren: World Log Rolling Champion -
Congrats., Mr. S. Belliveau 2626
Res. 1279, Clarke's Hbr. Cardinals: Baseball League Championships -
Congrats., Mr. S. Belliveau 2627
Res. 1280, Belong, Gabriel: Surgeons/Fundraiser - Thank,
Ms. V. Conrad 2628
Res. 1281, Weagle, Crystal - Cadet Award, Ms. V. Conrad 2628
Res. 1281, Weagle, Crystal - Cadet Award, Ms. V. Conrad
Res. 1282, Backman, Charlie: Honesty - Congrats,
Ms. V. Conrad 2628
Res. 1283, United Communities Fire Hall: Vols. - Recognize,
Ms. V. Conrad 2629
Res. 1284, Italy Cross Fire Hall: Vols. - Recognize, Ms. V. Conrad 2629
Res. 1285, Bramscombe, Doug/Lakeside Rec. Ctr.: Work -
Thank, Mr. W. Estabrooks 2630
Res. 1286, Live Smart Cdn. Diabetes Assoc. Expo: Cdn. Diabetes
Assoc. - Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 2630
Res. 1287, Bickerton, Kenny: Sydney Acad. Hockey Tournament -
Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 2631
Res. 1288, Pardy, Jenny: Songwriters' Circle - Selection Circle,
Mr. M. Samson 2631
Res. 1289, Richmond Acad. - Girls Soccer Team: Reg. Banner -
Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2632
Res. 1290, LeBlanc, Raymond - Inrich BDC Award,
Mr. M. Samson 2632
Res. 1291, MacLeod, Barbara: Grand River Presbyterian Church
Organist (67yrs.) - Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2633
Res. 1292, Sampson, Dean: Fundraising - Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2633
Res. 1293, Starkey, Grace - Cdn. Cancer Soc.: Hair Donation -
Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2634
Res. 1294, Boudrot, Don/Boudreau, Lorenzo: Book Release -
Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2634
Res. 1295, Sampson, Kallie - Poetry: Publication - Congrats.,
Mr. M. Sampson 2635
Res. 1296, Langdon, Capt. Mark/Spanish Mist: 1000th Voyage -
Congrats., Mr. C. Porter 2635
Res. 1297, The Living Christmas Tree (Port Greville): Participants -
Congrats., Hon. M. Scott 2636
Res. 1298, Greene, Cadet James: HMCS Avalon Music Prog. -
Congrats., Mr. C. Porter 2636
Res. 1299, Peterson, Mark & Teri - Bluegrass Fest.: Role -
Recognize, Mr. C. Porter 2637
Res. 1300, MacNeil, Dawn - Int'l. Girl Guide Camp: Vol. Work -
Congrats., Mr. C. Porter 2637
Res. 1301, Saint George's - YouthNet: Serv./Fundraising -
Congrats., Ms. Maureen MacDonald 2638
Congrats., Ms. Maureen MacDonald
Res. 1302, Langille, Annette/Jasmine's Hair & Aesthetics -
Anniv. (10th), Mr. J. MacDonell 2638
Res. 1303, Knockwood, Doug/Mi'kmaw Lodge Treatment Ctr. -
Anniv. (20th), Mr. J. MacDonell 2639
Res. 1304, Cruickshank, Angela/Planners/Participants: Presbyterian
Youth Synod - Commend, Mr. C. MacKinnon 2639
Res. 1305, N.S. Publishing Ind.: Initiative Plan - Develop,
Ms. J. Massey 2640
Res. 1306, United Way (Hfx. Reg.): Commun. Consultation
(11/22/06) - Congrats., Ms. M. More 2640
Res. 1307, Gender Violence, Days of Activism Against (11/24/06 )
12/10/06) - Recognize, Ms. M. More 2641
Res. 1308, Clarke, Paul & Jason: MS Soc. Fundraising - Congrats.,
Ms. M. More 2641
Res. 1309, Cormier, Joe/Lockview HS Music Prog.: Awards -
Congrats., Mr. P. Paris 2642
Res. 1310, Thomas Bernard, Dr. Wanda - Women of Excellence
Award, Mr. P. Paris 2642
Res. 1311, Pictou Co. Municipalities Crime Prevention Assoc.:
Formation - Congrats., Mr. C. Parker 2643
Res. 1312, Baxter, Joan - N.S.-Gambia Assoc.: Exec. Dir. -
Appt., Mr. L. Preyra 2643
Res. 1313, MacIvor, Daniel - Gov.-Gen's Literary Award,
Mr. L. Preyra 2644
Res. 1314, Wilderness Areas Protection Act: Ministerial Discretion -
Remove, Ms. M. Raymond 2645
Res. 1315, J. L. Ilsley - Theatre Creation: Educ./TCH - Support,
Ms. M. Raymond 2645
Res. 1316, Windsor Junior Chamber Int'l.: Nat'l Awards - Congrats.,
Mr. C. Porter 2646
Res. 1317, Maxner, Janet: Farm Credit Corp. Proj. - Congrats.,
Mr. C. Porter 2646
Res. 1318, Goucher-Millett, Audrey & Lewis - Photography/
Quilt Design: Talent - Applaud, Mr. C. Porter 2647
Res. 1319, RCL Branch 9 (Windsor) - Red T-Shirt Friday:
Endorsation - Thank, Mr. C. Porter 2647
Res. 1320, Barkhouse, Marilyn/Phillips, Heidi - Junior Chamber Int'l.:
Work - Compliment, Mr. C. Porter 2648
Work - Compliment, Mr. C. Porter
Res. 1321, Junior Chamber Int'l. Windsor: Contributions -
Recognize, Mr. C. Porter 2648
Res. 1322, League of Equal Opportunities - Handicapped Parking:
Wheelchair Designation - Demand, Mr. L. Glavine 2649
Res. 1323, Chisholm, "Little" Eddie: Death of - Tribute,
The Premier 2649
Res. 1324, Watts, Evan: Can. Games Hockey Team - Selection,
The Premier 2650
Res. 1325, Bird, Tom & Cindy: CPR Instruction - Congrats.,
Hon. E. Fage 2650
Res. 1326, Queens Co. Fair: Caledonia United Church Vols. -
Congrats., Ms. V. Conrad 2650
Res. 1327, 4 Leaf Clover Club (Queens Co.): Members - Congrats.,
Ms. V. Conrad 2651
Res. 1328, Raimbault, Alain - Prix Grand - Pre Award,
Mr. S. McNeil 2652
Res. 1329, Boucher, Wayne - Portia White Prize, Mr. S. McNeil 2652
Res. 1330, Peters, Dale/Budden, Shawn: Glen Murray Hockey
Tournament - Congrats., Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 2653
Res. 1331, Young, Marc - S. Shore Jr. Golfer of Yr.,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 2654
Res. 1332, Passmore, Cpl. - RCMP: Retirement - Congrats.,
Hon. C. Bolivar-Getson 2654
Res. 1333, McCreath, Peter: Hon. Deg. - Saint Mary's Univ.,
Hon. J. Streatch 2654
Res. 1334, Chisholm, Rod J. - Scot of the Yr. Award,
Hon. A. MacIsaac 2655
Res. 1335, Decoste, Doreen: War Bride - Congrats., Hon. A. MacIsaac 2655
Res. 1336, McNeil, Colleen - Fed. Liberal Leadership Convention:
Delegate - Selection, Mr. S. McNeil 2656
Res. 1337, Saunders, Coach Terry: Bridgetown Reg. HS Senior Boys
Soccer Team - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2656
Res. 1338, Zveibil, Filipe Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2657
Res. 1339, Robar, Devon: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2657
Res. 1340, Saunders, Jordan: Soccer Season - Congrats.,
Mr. S. McNeil 2658
Mr. S. McNeil
Res. 1341, Marx, Kay: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2658
Res. 1342, Meisner, Jacob: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2659
Res. 1343, MacNeil, Zack: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2659
Res. 1344, Martinelli, Bernardo: Soccer Season - Congrats.,
Mr. S. McNeil 2660
Res. 1345, Neily, Alex: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2660
Res. 1346, Burke, Geoff: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2661
Res. 1347, Frost, Dennis: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2661
Res. 1348, Lowe, Mitchell: Soccer Season - Congrats.,
Mr. S. McNeil 2662
Res. 1349, Beals, Travis: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2662
Res. 1350, Burke, Davy: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2663
Res. 1351, Bent, Jesse: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2663
Res. 1352, Bent, Jeremy: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2664
Res. 1353, Smith, Rob: Soccer Season - Congrats., Mr. S. McNeil 2664
Res. 1354, Weeks, Joan/Folkus Atl. Inc. - Excellence in Bus. Award,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2665
Res. 1355, Oake, Blair/City Printers Ltd. - Excellence in Bus. Award,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2665
Res. 1356, MacPherson, Blair/Tigger's Draperies & Blinds -
Excellence in Bus. Award, Mr. A. MacLeod 2666
Res. 1357, MacDonald, Gordon/Black & White Fisheries -
Excellence in Bus. Award, Mr. A. MacLeod 2666
Res. 1358, O'Brien, Bill/CBU Alumni Assoc. - Excellence in Bus.
Award, Mr. A. MacLeod 2667
Res. 1359, Hfx. West Warriors: Soccer Title - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2667
Res. 1360, Fischer Boulter, Pernille: Woman Entrepreneur Award -
Nomination, Ms. D. Whalen 2668
Res. 1361, Citizens on Patrol - Acknowledge/Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2668
Res. 1362, Holmes, Glen and Nancy: Pseudio Store - Grand Opening,
Ms. D. Whalen 2669
Res. 1363, Hornbuckle, Sean/Hfx. West Warriors: Soccer
Championship - Congrats., Ms. D. Whalen 2669
Res. 1364, Power, Stephanie - MUN: Student's Union - Selection,
Ms. D. Whalen 2670
Ms. D. Whalen
Res. 1365, Little Brook FD Ladies Aux. - Anniv (25th),
Mr. W. Gaudet 2670
Res. 1366, Boudreau, Roland - Fire Serv. Long Serv. Award (25yrs.),
Mr. W. Gaudet 2671
Res. 1367, MacDonald, Blair/McCormick, Sheldon: Debating
Championships - Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 2671
Res. 1368, CBU - Soccer Teams (Men's & Women's): Ranking -
Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 2672
Res. 1369, Wall, Cheryl: Athletic Accomplishments -
Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 2672
Res. 1370, Abenheimer, Hannah: Athletic Achievements -
Congrats., Mr. G. Gosse 2673
Res. 1371, Bayhead Union Church - Anniv. (140th), Hon. K. Casey 2673
Res. 1372, Ernst, Tom Woodlot-Owner of Yr. (West. Reg.),
Mr. L. Glavine 2673
Res. 1373, Penny, Sandra - Bowl of Hygeia Award, Mr. L. Glavine 2674
Res. 1374, Taylor, Eldon - Woodlot Owner of Yr. (East. Reg.),
Mr. L. Glavine 2674
Res. 1375, Johnson, Duncan & Laurie - Woodlot Owner of Yr.
(Cent. N.S.), Mr. L. Glavine 2675
Res. 1376, St. Anthony's of Padua - Anniv. (50th), Mr. L. Glavine 2675
Res. 1377, MacMillan, Gerry & Chad - Paragon Golf & CC
Championships, Mr. L. Glavine 2676
Res. 1378, Angevine, Cyril: Death of - Tribute, Hon. M. Scott 2676
Res. 1379, Westchester FD: Firefighters - Congrats., Hon. M. Scott 2677
Res. 1380, Wentworth FD: Firefighters - Congrats., Hon. M. Scott 2677
Res. 1381, McCabe, Roger - Oxford Vol. FD Award, Hon. M. Scott 2678
Res. 1382, Emmerson, Dean - Firefighter of Yr., Hon. M. Scott 2678
Res. 1383, Rector, Stacey: Academic Achievement - Congrats.,
Hon. M. Scott 2679
Res. 1384, Deveaux, Danica: CD Release - Congrats., Hon. M. Scott 2679
Res. 1385, Connolly, Andrew & Rita: Foster Parents - Applaud,
Mr. C. Porter 2680
Res. 1386, Harvey, Kevin: Windsor's Hockey Hall of Fame -
Induction, Mr. C. Porter 2680
Res. 1387, Corkum, Doug & Suzanne: Saint-Famille Wines - Applaud,
Mr. C. Porter 2681
Mr. C. Porter
Res. 1388, My Mother's Language Prog.: Supporters - Congrats.,
Mr. M. Samson 2681
Res. 1389, MacNeil, Anastasia: Exercise Routine - Congrats.,
Mr. M. Samson 2682
Res. 1390, Rocky Bay Irish Fest.: Organizers/Participants -
Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2682
Res. 1391, Webb, Russell: The Grass Song - Film Performance,
Mr. M. Samson 2683
Res. 1392, McNamara, Coun. Shirley - Dep. Warden: Acclamation -
Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2683
Res. 1393, Boudreau, John: Richmond Co. Warden - Election,
Mr. M. Samson 2684
Res. 1394, Boudreau, Lorenzo - Mun. Politics: Involvement -
Congrats., Mr. M. Samson 2684
Res. 1395, East Coast Credit Union: New Branch - Grand Opening,
Mr. M. Samson 2685
Res. 1396, Bennet, Nigel: Gemini Nomination - Congrats.,
Mr. C. MacKinnon 2685

[Page 2499]

HALIFAX, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2006

Sixtieth General Assembly

First Session

11:15 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Cecil Clarke

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Mr. Wayne Gaudet

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

Before we begin the daily routine, the subject for this evening's late debate was submitted by the honourable member for Halifax Needham:

Therefore be it resolved that this government clarify its position on long-term care beds at Bayside Home in Shelburne County.

That will be heard at the moment of interruption.

Before we proceed further I have the very pleasant task of introducing a special guest in the Speaker's Gallery today. We are very pleased to be joined by His Excellency Ernesto Antonio Senti Darias, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba, who is here for various meetings. Welcome, Your Excellency. (Applause)

Joining His Excellency is Antonio Castanon, Economic Counsellor for the Ambassador. Welcome, indeed. (Applause)

2499

[Page 2500]

We hope our guests and all guests in the gallery enjoy their time at the House of Assembly today.

SPEAKER'S RULING: Statements made by NDP members against the Liberal Party. (Pt. of privilege by Mr. Michel Samson [Hansard p. 2387]

MR. SPEAKER: Before proceeding with the business of the day, I have a matter to discuss with the House pertaining to a point of privilege that was raised. As I stated yesterday to all members of this House, I had looked at the original request that was submitted to me in advance of yesterday, of the Liberal Leader presenting a matter of privilege before the House. I said a prima facie, I felt that the point of privilege was in order.

Subsequent to that, I have reviewed the transcripts, I reviewed the audio and the video associated with that matter. I've also taken into account precedents in the House, and the last time a matter of a similar nature was before the House. My research would show that the last time the House dealt with a matter of a similar nature would have been 44 years ago, in 1962. The House had a procedure for dealing with that at that time. If it is required, that procedure will set the precedent for consideration of all members of this House.

Now, I have ruled that there is a matter of privilege. As all members know, it's now a matter before this House and not before the Speaker.

At this time, I would like to acknowledge the honourable member for Halifax Citadel.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel.

MR. LEONARD PREYRA: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I listened very carefully to the point of privilege raised by the honourable member for Richmond, the Leader of the Liberal Party. I apologize for any statement made in this House that you feel violated the privileges of any member.

I also want to say that I had the privilege of working with John Savage, I had the privilege of working with Danny Graham, and I have nothing but the utmost respect for their integrity. I've also had the pleasure of working with every member of the House in the Liberal Party, and I have no question at all about them being hard-working, decent people, and if I have offended them - even for those things that you do not rule out of order - I apologize for those and I retract those remarks. Thank you. (Applause)

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

[Page 2501]

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I do want to thank the member for Halifax Citadel for having apologized for his remarks and having asked that they be retracted.

Mr. Speaker, you will recall in the point of privilege that two members were mentioned in the point of privilege - in fact, more than two could have been mentioned, but two were. The other being, the member for Halifax Fairview. Being that that member has not seen fit to retract his statement or to apologize to this House, I would ask that you advise the House as to what the precedent was, for action in such matters, based on the research that you have done, and I would be prepared to make a motion, if necessary, once you've advised the House of what the precedent is for dealing with this matter, based on the fact the member for Halifax Fairview has not seen fit to respect the Rules of this House and the ruling of yourself, as Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. Before going into the process there, I will offer an opportunity, should it be so desired by the member for Halifax Fairview, if we wishes to make a comment at this time.

The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.

MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm a bit taken aback by the comments of the interim Leader of the Liberal Party. The reason I haven't addressed the matter is because I wasn't asked to, while the matter was under review by yourself. Let me say this, during the debate on the bill, I said some things about the origins of the particular funds held by the Liberal Party, which I believe to be true. However, I'm given to understand, today, that the objection of the interim Leader of the Liberal Party is not the words that I actually said, but an implication that by drawing a link between those factual statements and then later on talking about the contenders for the Liberal leadership, that somehow there was a link between my factual comment on the origin of the funds and those Liberal leadership contenders.

Mr. Speaker, let me say that if anyone in the House believes that I said, thought or implied that any member of this House is linked to criminal activity, I did not say that, I did not think it and if I implied it, I am profoundly sorry. People who know me know that I utterly respect this House, the Chair and the traditions of the House, and if I have said something that implied that any member of the House was engaged somehow in criminal activity, then I deeply regret that, and I retract it without reservation. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. Further to that, in terms of the consideration of this House - as I've said, it is a matter before all members of this House. If the comments by the two honourable members for Halifax Citadel and Halifax Fairview are not deemed acceptable, then the next process would be to put a motion before the House, asking that it be referred, according to precedence, in this case in our current-day context, to the Committee on Internal Affairs. If it is acceptable, the comments that are made, and there

[Page 2502]

is no further action, then the matter will be left as it is, amongst all honourable members accepting the word of their colleagues.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, we will take the opportunity to review the comments made by the member for Halifax Fairview and we will reserve the right to introduce a motion on this matter at a later date.

MR. SPEAKER: So be it. Thank you, honourable members. We now shall commence with the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. ALFRED MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition. The operative clause is:

"We the undersigned:

Residents of District #13 Eskasoni and Northside East Bay, request the Provincial Minister of Transportation and Public Works to take immediate action to have the Eskasoni Road brought up to appropriate standards."

Mr. Speaker, I have attached my name to this document.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Human Resources.

HON. ERNEST FAGE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to table the report Moving Toward Equity, Affirmative Action and Diversity in the Nova Scotia Public Service, 2005-2006.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

[Page 2503]

HON. LEONARD GOUCHER: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I beg leave to table the following report entitled Creative Nova Scotia, How Arts and Culture Can Help Build a Better Nova Scotia. It is a guiding document for a government that outlines how we can better support arts and culture in our province. It was developed by the Nova Scotia Arts and Culture Partnership Council and endorsed by the province in October 2006.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I would move this report forward.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Immigration.

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I wish to table a report entitled the 2005-06 Annual Report of the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Health.

MR. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I stand today to introduce the DHA annual reports: South Shore, South West Nova, Annapolis Valley, Colchester, Cumberland, Pictou County, Guysborough, Cape Breton, Capital Health and the IWK.

MR. SPEAKER: The reports are tabled.

The honourable Minister of Human Resources.

HON. ERNEST FAGE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to table the Annual Report of the Civil Service Disclosure of Wrongdoing Regulations and Policy, 2005-2006.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, on a point of order, I'm wondering, with the consent of the House, if we can revert to the order of business, Presenting and Reading Petitions.

MR. SPEAKER: The request is to revert to the order of business, Presenting and Reading Petitions.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 2504]

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Before I do my petition, can I have a brief introduction?

MR. SPEAKER: Yes, please.

MR. DEVEAUX: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the west gallery is a man who many in this House are familiar with, John Hill, who lives in the Dartmouth area, who did a lot of petitions back in 2005 and early 2006 with regard to removing the HST off heating sources in our houses. He is here again today, and I would like to have him recognized by the House. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition with the operative clause being:

"We, the undersigned citizens of Nova Scotia, Canada, demand that our

government keep its promise to remove the HST on heat.

All heating fuels, now and in the future, are basic necessities of life in

Canada, and should not be taxable.

We repeat: We ask our government to declare all heating fuels are non-

taxable necessities, by November 30, 2006, or resign."

That has my signature attached and it has 1,038 signatures, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 1220

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 each sitting of this Legislature functions smoothly thanks in large measure to the many hard-working staff who work on behalf of this beautiful, historic Legislature and all its members; and

[Page 2505]

Whereas our special thanks go out to these efficient and loyal staff members, including Mike Laffin and Peter Theriault, our Sergeant-at-Arms, staff of our Legislative Library, our commissionaires, Pages and messengers; and

Whereas our appreciation is extended also to the able Legislative Counsel Office staff, the Clerk's and Speaker's Office staff, the Committees Office staff, our Hansard and Legislative Television personnel, and our catering staff, as well as those who keep this beautiful, historic House clean and orderly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature commend and applaud the efforts of these talented and flexible groups of individuals, efforts for which all members in this House are extremely grateful. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[11:30 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.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Finance.

RESOLUTION NO. 1221

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

Whereas the percentage of Nova Scotians voting in provincial elections has declined over a number of years; and

Whereas it is the desire of all Parties in the House of Assembly to increase public participation in the democratic process; and

Whereas the Parties wish to enhance the effectiveness of our representative form of government;

Therefore be it resolved that:

  • [Page 2506]
  • the House establish a Select Committee on Participation in the Democratic Process;
  • the select committee be composed of such members as the striking committee determines, with an equal number of members from each of the three Parties;
  • the Government House Leader designate one of the members of the select committee as its chairman and the House Leaders of the Opposition Parties each designate one member of the select committee as a vice-chairman;
  • the mandate of the select committee is to consider measures designed to increase the percentage of Nova Scotians voting in an election and to enhance the effectiveness of our representative form of government;
  • the select committee shall file its report with the Clerk of the House by June 30, 2007;
  • the House declares, pursuant to Section 36 of the House of Assembly Act, that the select committee is not dissolved by prorogation of the House and the select committee is authorized to continue its inquiries after the House is prorogued;
  • that all powers of the House of Assembly Act applicable to committees apply and are in full force and effect during the sitting of the select committee;
  • the House requests the Legislature Internal Economy Board, on behalf of the select committee, to appoint such members and staff as may be necessary to enable the select committee to carry out its duties; and
  • the House requests the Legislature Internal Economy Board to provide the select committee, its members and its staff, with such facilities and funds as are required to carry out its functions as provided for by Section 80 of the Public Service Act.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 2507]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.

RESOLUTION NO. 1222

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

Whereas Positive Parenting is an interactive-based program intended to provide parents of African Canadian children with extensive knowledge of the education system, social development and personal self-growth; and

Whereas the Positive Parenting Program helps parents by providing detailed information on how to access the education system and stay connected with their child's learning; and

Whereas we are appreciative of the partnerships we've forged with the following organizations that assist in the delivery of this initiative: the African Canadian Services Division of the Department of Education, and the Black Educators Association;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate all the participating parents and partners in the Positive Parenting Program for taking the steps to strengthen relationships between our African Nova Scotian parents and the education system, and let us wish them all the best with their future endeavours.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1223

[Page 2508]

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

Whereas the Aliant New Media Prize was established as an annual award to support art projects focusing on media interactivity using computers and communications technologies; and

Whereas Stephen Kelly, a Halifax musician and artist, was recently named the winner of this year's Aliant New Media Prize; and

Whereas Mr. Kelly received the Aliant New Media Prize to create Wave Up, a kinetic sound sculpture that will translate data from ocean wave data buoys into motion and sound in an urban gallery space using speakers connected to the Internet;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in congratulating Stephen Kelly on being named the recipient of the 2006 Aliant New Media Prize.

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 Fisheries and Aquaculture.

RESOLUTION NO. 1224

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

Whereas Monday, November 27th, marks the opening of the lobster fishery in Areas 33 and 34 in southwest Nova Scotia; and

Whereas this is the largest single inshore fishery in Canada, supporting 1,700 licence holders, their crews and their families, and the lobster fishery is the economic lifeline of southwest Nova Scotia; and

[Page 2509]

Whereas the conditions of the sea in the late Fall and winter can be extreme in our part of the world, resulting in difficult working conditions on any given day;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature recognize the contribution that lobster fishermen make to the economy of our province, and wish them a safe and prosperous fishing season.

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.

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

The honourable Minister of Immigration.

RESOLUTION NO. 1225

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 November 25th is recognized as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and has become the first of 16 Days of Action on Gender Violence; and

Whereas in Nova Scotia it has also become the traditional launch of the purple ribbon campaign, which raises awareness of violence against women and raises funds for organizations that help women facing violence, especially from intimate partners; and

Whereas all members of this House of Assembly have received a purple ribbon from the Advisory Council on the Status of Women and a list of transition houses, women's centres and sexual assault services in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House mark 16 Days of Action Against Gender Violence and prepare for Canada's National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women by wearing a purple ribbon and supporting a transition house, women's centre or sexual assault centre in their constituency.

[Page 2510]

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Community Services.

RESOLUTION NO. 1226

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

Whereas the 7th Annual Nova Scotia Council for the Family Youth Achievement Awards will be held tomorrow to celebrate the accomplishments of youth in care of the province; and

Whereas each award winner has been nominated by someone close to them, someone who has recognized their abilities and achievements; and

Whereas I am honoured to help recognize these young people for their educational achievements, leadership qualities, outstanding achievements in sport, arts and culture, and for their outstanding perseverance in facing life's challenges;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the achievements of these youth and be assured that all Nova Scotians can be proud to have these young people in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

[Page 2511]

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.

RESOLUTION NO. 1227

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

Whereas Imhotep's Legacy is an interactive after-school math and science program that has increased the participation of youth African Canadian learners at the junior high school level in these subjects; the program supports their academic, social and personal development; and

Whereas the program's next cycle launch will be held this Saturday at the Dalhousie University Dunn Physics Building from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; five schools will participate in this event and students will learn about DNA fingerprinting, holograms, the solar system, and tour the university campus; and

Whereas we would like to acknowledge the contribution of the following groups to the successful delivery of this initiative: Dalhousie University's Black Student Advisory Centre, Faculty of Science and Physics and Atmospheric Science Departments, and the African Canadian Services Division of the Department of Education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate all participants and partners in the Imhotep's Legacy Project for encouraging math and science in our African Nova Scotian learners, and let us wish them all the best in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1228

[Page 2512]

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

Whereas Halifax is one of the three cities in the world bidding for the opportunity to host the 2014 Commonwealth Games, an international sporting event held every four years where athletes from 71 Commonwealth nations and territories gather to compete; and

Whereas it is a tradition at international sporting events like the Commonwealth Games for the host city to stage a festival that showcases its talented artists and own unique culture and celebrates the cultural diversity of all countries; and

Whereas a dynamic group of artists, performers, entertainers, producers and people who represent arts and culture on a local, national and international scale have formed a committee to develop a festival that will stimulate cultural engagement among athletes, visitors and residents;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House thank the members of the Cultural Advisory Committee for their commitment and support of the Halifax bid for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 124 - Entitled an Act to Clarify the Title to Lands of St. John's Anglican Church of Lunenburg. (Hon. Michael Baker)

Bill No. 125 - Entitled an Act to Permit Retail Workers to Refuse Work. (Mr. Darrell Dexter)

Bill No. 126 - Entitled an Act Respecting Health Facilities Licensing and Equitable Access to Insured Services. (Hon. Christopher d'Entremont)

[Page 2513]

Bill No. 127 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 214 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Human Rights Act. (Mr. Kevin Deveaux)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants East.

RESOLUTION NO. 1229

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

Whereas domestic violence tears apart families and destroys loving relationships; and

Whereas Bridges is a program recognized internationally for the work of its volunteers in helping to reduce domestic abuse and physical violence; and

Whereas Bridges celebrates its 15th Anniversary this year in serving the residents of Hants East and Colchester Counties;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the volunteers who make the Bridges program the success it has been, and thank them for their efforts in making homes and relationships free from abuse and violence.

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 Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 1230

[Page 2514]

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

Whereas the Avon Valley Golf Country Club hosted the Nova Scotia Golf Association's 2006 Junior Girls Championships Tournament July 10th to 13th; and

Whereas Mireille LeBlanc of Clare won the 2006 Nova Scotia Junior Girls Championships; and

Whereas Ms. LeBlanc finished the tournament with a score of 231 after the four-day event;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mireille LeBlanc for winning the 2006 Nova Scotia Golf Association's Junior Girls Championships.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[11:45 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.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Health on an introduction.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. In the east gallery, I'd like to introduce to this House the Deputy Registrar of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Dr. Bill Lowe. I ask him to stand and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1231

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

[Page 2515]

Whereas for nearly three decades Wear Well Garments Company of Stellarton has produced work apparel for the institutional, industrial, corporate, and food service markets; and

Whereas company owners Fraser and Sterling MacLean have worked tirelessly to maintain the company's reputation for superior quality and customer satisfaction; and

Whereas when faced with increased competition from foreign outfits, Wear Well Garments used its "go where the customers are and where they want to be" marketing strategy to retain the company's presence in the marketplace, and through its web-based business, secured clients from around the globe;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their congratulations to Fraser and Sterling MacLean and the staff of Wear Well Garments Company on nearly 30 years of trade in a highly competitive global industry - Wear Well Garments can be held up as an example to other Nova Scotia businesses of the limitless opportunities that are possible in our province.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Pictou West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1232

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

Whereas the West Branch Community Association in Pictou County is composed of active, hard-working community members who have recently reconstituted their community association; and

Whereas these community leaders have been successful in lobbying for area road improvements, and have recently started the West Branch Farmers Market as well as an art show; and

[Page 2516]

Whereas the West Branch Community Association will hold a flag-raising ceremony at their community hall this Sunday, November 26th, hoisting a Canadian, a Nova Scotian, and a Red Ensign flag;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the members of the West Branch Community Association for their initiative, and thank them for keeping alive the true spirit of 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 member for Kings West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1233

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

Whereas off-highway vehicles are an intricate part of the lives of many Nova Scotians in both rural and urban areas; and

Whereas many of these law-abiding and concerned citizens are having problems riding their vehicles because the rules and regulations implemented this year have caused confusion; and

Whereas many private landowners are also puzzled with regard to user liability, leading to uncertainty and doubt amongst OHV riders and landowners alike;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly urge the Minister of Natural Resources to clarify the new off-highway vehicle regulations and cease the confusion for a large population of Nova Scotians.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

[Page 2517]

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1234

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

Whereas on December 6th of this year the organizers of the Cape Breton International Drum Festival will hold its Gala Evening at the Delta Hotel in Sydney; and

Whereas the night will feature the world premiere of the short documentary, When Cape Breton Rocks . . . the World Rocks, and will also include a drum clinic led by the "Detroit Hit Man", Mr. Uriel Jones, who has worked with musical legends such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder; and

Whereas the evening will also feature a silent auction of photographs, taken by Glace Bay photographer Steve Wadden, of performers at the 2006 Cape Breton International Drum Festival;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their best wishes for a successful Gala Evening to festival organizers Bruce and Gloria Jean Aitken, and congratulate them on the continued success of the festival that they established.

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.

[Page 2518]

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

Whereas rapid increases in property assessments along the South Shore and areas of Cape Breton, and in many other communities, have left Nova Scotians, especially those on fixed incomes, to feel that they are being forced off their family property by the resulting increase in property taxes; and

Whereas Nova Scotia residents found that the 10 per cent cap on annual increases in assessments still meant that property taxes could increase very rapidly, creating hardship for seniors and others; and

Whereas late yesterday the government endorsed the NDP's amendment to cap the normal annual increase in assessment at the rate of inflation;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the many individuals, community leaders and representatives, who kept working to achieve a fairer assessment cap; the minister who listened and agreed to adopt the rate of inflation as a fair cap on residential assessment; and the members who kept this proposal before the House, the MLAs for Timberlea-Prospect and Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is out of order, it's a bill before the House.

The honourable member for Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 1235

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

Whereas high-speed Internet access in our technologically dependent society has become a necessity for all Nova Scotians, whether it be for accessing government forms only available on the Internet, staying in touch with family members, researching school projects, or searching for employment; and

Whereas many rural communities in this province still are not able to access high- speed Internet, either because the service is not yet available or individuals lack the resources to own a computer; and

[Page 2519]

Whereas 279 Community Access Program sites across this province enabled 1.8 million visits by mostly seniors, low-income families, and children - our must vulnerable members of our society - to access vital Internet service;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier reconfirm his government's election commitment to Nova Scotians with regard to high-speed Internet access, and ensure that long-term funding for this critical province-wide program be secured before March 31, 2007, to ensure rural Nova Scotians are able to continue to access the programs and services they deserve through the Community Access Program.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Pictou Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1236

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

Whereas in October of this year the Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association was officially launched after coming together one year ago; and

Whereas this proactive step towards co-operation and partnership among local crime prevention groups has already earned the initial praise and support from the private sector, all levels of government, and local law enforcement detachments; and

Whereas Executive Directive Barb Dewtie and Chairman Bob MacAulay have worked tirelessly to make the communities of Pictou County safer, and to educate citizens about such things as consumer fraud, identity theft, and home security - the association has also created a comprehensive Web site dedicated to anti-bullying, providing an invaluable resource for the greater community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their congratulations and sincere support to the newly formed Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association - those involved in its creation set a fine example for other Nova Scotia

[Page 2520]

communities of what good can come from inclusive work within a community as it ensures the safety of its citizens.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Nova.

RESOLUTION NO. 1237

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

Whereas Marine Atlantic has undertaken a process of significantly increasing the number of positions designated as bilingual; and

Whereas the corporation has provided no evidence to support the need for more bilingual positions; and

Whereas the designation of these positions as bilingual is contrary to the current collective agreement;

Therefore be it resolved that this House call on Marine Atlantic to examine the need for more bilingual positions and work with their employees to bring this issue . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. There is too much noise in the Chamber. I would ask the honourable member for Cape Breton Nova to start over.

MR. GOSSE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

[Page 2521]

Whereas Marine Atlantic has undertaken a process of significantly increasing the number of positions designated as bilingual; and

Whereas the corporation has provided no evidence to support the need for more bilingual positions; and

Whereas the designation of these positions as bilingual is contrary to the current collective agreement;

Therefore be it resolved that this House call on Marine Atlantic to examine the need for more bilingual positions and work with their employees to bring this issue to a resolution.

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. 1238

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

Whereas alders in Digby-Annapolis are a growing concern along all of our roads, which in some areas are causing safety concerns; and

Whereas there is one solution of cutting these down but, with scarce resources and alders being fast-growing, the local department cannot keep ahead of them with the amount in its budget; and

Whereas Digby-Annapolis is the only area where these bushes seem to grow the most, and we believe this is from salty fog off the Bay of Fundy that feeds them;

[Page 2522]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly urge the Department of Transportation and Public Works to establish a special fund for the Digby-Annapolis riding to deal with these alder-growing problems.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1239

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

Whereas on October 16th of this year, the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce handed out its business awards to successful Cape Breton businesses; and

Whereas Island businesses were recognized for a variety of achievements, including the Rising Star Award and Business Person of the Year Award, and several people were inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Germaine LeMoine of the Cranberry Cove Inn in Louisbourg accepted an Excellence in Business Award for her hard work in operating the popular inn;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their warm congratulations to Germaine LeMoine of the Cranberry Cove Inn on her Excellence in Business Award from the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

[Page 2523]

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1240

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

Whereas on July 18th a plaque honouring Margaret Savage for a lifetime of dedicated service to her community and church was unveiled at Margaret's House, 43 Wentworth Street, Dartmouth; and

Whereas the building on Wentworth Street has been named Margaret's House by the FOOD Society and has provided daily meals to people in need; and

Whereas Mrs. Savage was one of the early members of the society's board of directors and was actively involved in the annual fundraising program, the Christmas Full of Caring Dinner and Auction;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly applaud and celebrate the memory of Mrs. Savage and the continuing efforts of Margaret's House to serve those individuals who find themselves in need.

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. 1241

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

[Page 2524]

Whereas the Inverness-Richmond Business Development Centre Limited gives out awards each year to local businesses for their achievements; and

Whereas this year Ken and Andrea Burgess of Isle Madame were awarded the InRich Outstanding Achievement Award for their business, Burgess Fur; and

Whereas Ken and Andrea moved back home recently to own and operate a mink farm in Rocky Bay;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Ken and Andrea Burgess of Burgess Fur on receiving this year's InRich Business Development Centre Limited Outstanding Achievement Award and wish them continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Immigration.

RESOLUTION NO. 1242

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 sport activities of all types are important to individuals and communities; and

Whereas youth of all ages are encouraged to participate in sports; and

Whereas Meagan Adams and Emma Quigley of the Bridgewater Tennis Club were the recipients of the Dave Atkinson Memorial Award for girls under-15 category;

[Page 2525]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House recognize Meagan Adams and Emma Quigley on winning this prestigious award.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1243

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

Whereas deforestation contributes an estimated 20 per cent of greenhouse gas production worldwide; and

Whereas this government has taken few steps to protect our own forests, so that many acres are cut daily in Nova Scotia with a large portion of that going to pulp; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia House of Assembly consumes thousands of pages of paper every day, representing many tons of fibre per year;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly start at home resolving to reduce paper use in the Assembly by circulating and displaying information electronically wherever possible, or, at least, by investigating the alders of Digby-Annapolis as a source of fibre.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[12:00 noon]

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 2526]

I hear a No.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

RESOLUTION NO. 1244

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

Whereas over the last six years, over 500 pedestrians have been struck at marked crosswalks in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas in the last few years, five people have been injured at the crosswalk near Mount Saint Vincent University, but it does not meet the criteria for traffic lights, endangering the lives of pedestrians and motorists; and

Whereas students from Mount Saint Vincent University recently took to the highway with signs and slogans to alert drivers about the crosswalk, and urge them to slow down in the area;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly applaud the efforts made by these students, and encourage the government to act now and educate drivers and pedestrians about the importance of crosswalk safety.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1245

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

[Page 2527]

Whereas on Sunday, November 19th, the annual Light Up Bedford Parade took place in the community of Bedford to the delight of thousands who lined the parade route and later gathered in DeWolfe Park for the lighting of the Christmas tree and carol singalong; and

Whereas the event's organizing committee, again this year, did an outstanding job of coordinating the participation of many businesses and community groups who entered floats in the parade; and

Whereas Mayor Peter Kelly, of HRM, along with Gary Martin, Bedford Councillor for District 21, participated in the annual event which signals the beginning of the Christmas season in our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize and congratulate everyone involved in making the Light Up Bedford Parade such a huge success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Queens.

RESOLUTION NO. 1246

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

Whereas volunteer fire departments are a major component of our communities; and

Whereas the volunteers put on breakfasts, dinners, bingos, penny auctions and many other events that raise very important funds to keep our volunteer fire departments operating in our communities; and

[Page 2528]

Whereas the monies raised from all of these events ensure that our volunteer fire departments are well equipped and that our volunteer firefighters are trained in order to support our communities;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize the many volunteers of the Petite Rivière Fire Hall in Petite and the United Communities Fire Hall in Cherry Hill for the many hours of contributions to their communities and their hard work to organize all of the fundraising efforts required to keep the volunteer fire departments viable in their communities.

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 Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 1247

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

Whereas on September 23rd and 24th, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation held its 7th Annual CIBC Run for the Cure in Church Point, West Pubnico and Yarmouth; and

Whereas Belliveau Motors co-sponsored the annual Run for the Cure again this year; and

Whereas this year's run raised $14,041 for breast cancer research, education programs, as well as diagnosis and treatments;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly extend our gratitude and best wishes to Belliveau Motors for their active role, as well as the countless volunteers and participants who make the national campaign against breast cancer possible each year.

[Page 2529]

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 Transportation and Public Works.

RESOLUTION NO. 1248

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

Whereas Alex Grant from Antigonish played with Team Canada at the Junior Cup in the Czech Republic and Slovakia; and

Whereas defenceman Alex Grant was the lone Nova Scotian and one of two players from Atlantic Canada to make the cut; and

Whereas Team Canada was victorious and captured the Gold Medal playing against Team USA;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in congratulating Alex Grant on this outstanding win, and wish him continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

[Page 2530]

RESOLUTION NO. 1249

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

Whereas Wendy Lill of Dartmouth is a four-time nominee for the Governor General's Award and her plays include The Glace Bay Miner's Museum, All Fall Down and Corker; and

Whereas Wendy Lill's most recent play, Shimera, directed by Mary Vingoe, another Dartmouthian, will open at Toronto's Tarragon Theatre in early 2007; and

Whereas Wendy Lill combined her creative talents with her parliamentary experience to delve into the ethical debate around stem cell research from the point of view of a jaded journalist and recently-appointed federal Minister of Justice;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate two talented Dartmouthians; Wendy Lill, playwright and Mary Vingoe, director, upon the occasion of the world premiere of Shimera at the Tarragon Theatre in Toronto on January 2, 2007.

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. 1250

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

Whereas singer-songwriter Delores Boudreau of Arichat, Richmond County, has been a gifted performer for many years; and

Whereas Delores has given freely of her time to sing at many cultural events and fundraisers; and

[Page 2531]

Whereas Delores recently launched a new album, Finally Home, a compilation of songs reflecting her unique singing style;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly extend their sincerest congratulations to Delores Boudreau on her new album Finally Home and wish her great success in the future.

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 Human Resources.

RESOLUTION NO. 1251

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

Whereas eight members of the Cumberland Spartans swim team won 26 ribbons and had 21 personal best times at the recent AA provincial meet in Halifax; and

Whereas Sarah Hillier, Faith Clinton, Jessica Rossong, Astrid Coleman, Hannah Thompson, Kelsey Smith, Mark Gloade and Ewan Donachie made up this successful swim team; and

Whereas they are members of the Cumberland YMCA in Amherst, where most of their training takes place;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in sending our congratulations to the Cumberland Spartans swim team and wish them continued fun and success in swimming.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 2532]

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. 1252

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

Whereas on Friday, December 6, 2006, Trinity United Church in Timberlea will host a Tree Lighting Christmas Celebration; and

Whereas Trinity United Church is a leader of numerous initiatives in our community; and

Whereas the efforts of Trinity United Church are much appreciated by our community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate and thank the Trinity United Church in Timberlea on its Tree Lighting Christmas Celebration on Friday, December 6th.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Kings West.

[Page 2533]

RESOLUTION NO. 1253

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

Whereas in recognition of their contribution to community, Gordon and Edna Graham were honoured at the Berwick and District Lions Club annual tribute dinner held on November 18, 2006; and

Whereas Mr. and Mrs. Graham have given their talents and efforts to many organizations, including the Berwick Town Council, Scouts, Rebeccas, Baptist Church, Kings County Veterans Club, Western Kings Memorial Health Centre, Lions Club and founding member of Gala Days; and

Whereas their commitment to enriching the community and the lives of its citizens is based on their faith and years of strength through their marriage;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the contributions Gordon and Edna Graham have made to improving the community and congratulate them on their efforts to make Berwick and the surrounding area a better place to live.

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 honourable Minister of Education.

RESOLUTION NO. 1254

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

Whereas 18 outstanding women have been chosen as the winners of the 17th Annual Women of Excellence Awards; and

Whereas these women have made impressive contributions in the categories of Arts and Culture, Education and Research, Communications and Public Affairs,

[Page 2534]

Entrepreneur/Innovator, Health, Sport and Wellness, and Management and the Professions; and

Whereas Alice Pugsley, a lifelong resident of Colchester North, an executive and active member of numerous boards and committees, and the managing partner and director of two enterprises;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend their congratulations to Alice Pugsley as a most deserving recipient of a Women of Excellence Award as an Entrepreneur/Innovator.

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. 1255

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 Carillon Singers, founded 12 years ago, is a female choir founded by Jennifer Grout for singers across Pictou County; and

Whereas the Carillon Singers raise their voices in song with Renaissance, Classical, Sacred, Spiritual and Folk pieces; and

Whereas the Carillon Singers have performed in English, French, Mi'kmaq, Italian, German, Korean, Arabic and African languages;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend and congratulate Jennifer Grout, the accompanists and choir members of Carillon Singers for their dedication and commitment to bringing this varied and inspiring music to music lovers.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 2535]

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

RESOLUTION NO. 1256

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

Whereas our government says it is striving to make Nova Scotia energy efficient and has created the agency, Conserve Nova Scotia with that mission in mind; and

Whereas many jurisdictions have introduced legislation that rewards consumers with a tax credit for making the choice to buy fuel-efficient or hybrid cars; and

Whereas personal vehicles account for a large amount of the greenhouse gas emissions in our country, and the pollutants affect our air quality and the health of our people;

Therefore be it resolved that this government urge Conserve Nova Scotia to get moving and follow the lead of other jurisdictions by announcing a tax credit for fuel-efficient cars.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Health.

RESOLUTION NO. 1257

[Page 2536]

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

Whereas on Monday, November 13, 2006, members of the Islands and District Volunteer Fire Department were called upon to battle a blaze at their own station; and

Whereas members from seven surrounding departments, including those from Amirault's Hill/Hubbards Point, Eel Brook, Quinan, Wedgeport, Pubnico, Yarmouth and Lake Vaughan, turned out to lend a helping hand; and

Whereas in the aftermath of this tragic event, many departments around the province have either loaned or given equipment to Islands and District to help rebuild, including trucks from the Departments of Islands and Barrington and of Lapland, in the beautiful constituency of Lunenburg West;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House join me in paying tribute to the members of Islands and District, and all other volunteer fire departments that responded to the blaze on November 13th for their heroic response, and indeed for every time they respond to an emergency, and commend those departments that have generously contributed to the rebuilding efforts.

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 Dartmouth North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1258

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 Boys and Girls Club of Dartmouth and dedicated volunteers are warming up the griddles and have been running our breakfast programs for another year; and

[Page 2537]

Whereas studies show that children who start their day with a healthy breakfast perform better in school; and

Whereas this breakfast program is offered to students at Bicentennial, Harbourview, John Martin and Shannon Park schools free of charge to make sure that every student has a chance to attend school well-nourished and ready to learn;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the efforts of the Boys and Girls Club of Dartmouth, and the many volunteers who implement the breakfast program to students of Dartmouth North.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[12:15 p.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.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

RESOLUTION NO. 1259

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

Whereas alders are an excellent habitat for the woodcock bird; and

Whereas Nova Scotia is on the flight path of these endangered migratory species; and

Whereas the riding of Digby-Annapolis apparently has an abundance of alders;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House encourage our colleague, the affable MLA for Digby-Annapolis, to do all he can to attract these precious little birds to his riding.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

[Page 2538]

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1260

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

Whereas the western cliffs at the mouth of Halifax Harbour were first fortified in 1793, with the construction of York Redoubt, and the fortress evolved over 160 years, housing hundreds of troops at a time; and

Whereas York Redoubt was finally decommissioned after World War II, as "traditional" fortifications were deemed no longer useful in the post-atomic age; and

Whereas for 50 years the barracks, emplacements, tunnels, and cannon, have remained open to the elements and largely abandoned, though preserved as a National Historic Site;

Therefore be it resolved that this House offer its support to Parks Canada and members of the local public devoted to the preservation and wider knowledge of the history of York Redoubt and its role in protecting the Halifax port.

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 Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 1261

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

Whereas Helen Creighton is one of Canada's best- known folklorists, whose interest and work spanned Gaelic, Acadian, Mi'kmaq, English, German, and African Nova Scotian traditions; and

[Page 2539]

Whereas in 1933 Helen Creighton sat in East Petpeswick with Mrs. Ann Greenough and first noted The Nova Scotia Song, which the world now recognizes as Farewell to Nova Scotia; and

Whereas 2007 will mark the 75th Anniversary of this widely popular, unofficial folk song of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly mark the 75th Anniversary of the Nova Scotia song by recognizing it as the province's official folk song, thus bringing attention to Helen Creighton and her impact on Nova Scotia's musical and cultural heritage.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1262

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

Whereas the Metro Non-Profit Housing Association opened a coffee shop in 1996 in borrowed space, with one staff person, Byron Anderson, a kettle, a jar of instant coffee, and no budget; and

Whereas the Housing Support Centre Coffee Shop, now in its new location on Gottingen Street, averages about 100 participants each weekday and provides a constructive and pleasant location for people to come and to talk to each other and to take part in programs such as the well-known Shining Lights Choir; and

Whereas the coffee shop recently held a very successful 10th Anniversary celebration on October 16, 2006, which was attended by many users and supporters of the centre;

[Page 2540]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Byron Anderson and the other staff, the supporters, and coffee drinkers, at the Metro Non-Profit Housing Association's Housing Support Centre and Coffee Shop, for 10 years of service to the community and wish them continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS

MR. SPEAKER: Question Period will begin at 12:20 p.m. and finish at 1:20 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

PREM.: BROADBAND IMPLEMENTATION - RURAL N.S.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, my question this afternoon will be through you to the Premier.

Access to broadband Internet service is a necessity for most businesses and individuals these days. In rural areas in particular, it is of crucial importance as infrastructure that allows businesses to thrive. It is puzzling then that this government has failed to outline their plan to further the implementation of broadband in rural Nova Scotia. We know that while Halifax has a high rate of Internet use, rural Nova Scotia is lower than the Canadian average. So my question, Mr. Speaker, through you to the Premier is, beyond the pilot project in Cumberland County just what is your government's plan to extend broadband access?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I am indeed very proud of the commitment we have made, which will open up opportunities across our province in small rural communities, in larger centres. Indeed, the commitment this government has made to ensure that all Nova Scotians have access to the high-speed broadband Internet will make a difference across our province.

[Page 2541]

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, I believe I remember hearing that in June. I will table a letter from the Pictou Regional Development Commission to Service Canada that is dated November 16th. In this letter the PRDC outlines the loss of federal funding for a broadband initiative because of the Premier's government's yet-to-be-announced plan to extend the vital infrastructure. In fact, the letter reads, ". . . we have been notified by ACOA that there will be no broadband projects funded until the Province states their plan to further the implementation of broadband infrastructure in rural Nova Scotia." So my question to the Premier is, will the Premier explain to this House why his inaction on this issue is causing the loss of federal funding for rural broadband service in Pictou County and elsewhere?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, the government made a commitment, first of all, to take the appropriate steps and to come out with a pilot project. The government will be announcing that very soon.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, it can't come too soon for the person who will lose their job today because of the government's inaction. The Pictou County project is being discontinued. This will cost this person her job and many people the hope for access to broadband access. My final question to the Premier is, during the recent election you promised to bring broadband to every corner of the province by 2010, how does shutting down community broadband initiatives bring us closer to that goal?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as I said, we are going to open up opportunities, opportunities in small communities so that more businesses can set up, opportunities so people in their households will have opportunities to have that needed service. Indeed, this government made a commitment for 2010; I'll make the commitment today it will be sooner than 2010. (Interruption)

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

SERV. N.S. & MUN. REL.: GAS REGULATION - FAILURE ADMIT

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, today we see it again, another gas retailer along with a gas distributor in Nova Scotia who is being forced to potentially close down because of the Premier's gas regulation system, with the support of the Leader of the NDP. This time around, it's in the Premier's own backyard of Port Hawkesbury and Judique. Breton Petroleum Ltd. has told A&D Service Station Ltd., just minutes away from the Premier's hometown, that they no longer can supply them with gas under this system.

Unfortunately, for the people of Judique, A&D Service Station Ltd. is the only gas retailer in that area. The owner of the distribution company was quoted as saying, "But I'd really like to keep selling gas too. This town has lost enough already." However, as was stated by the owner of the gas station, his pleas have simply "fallen on

[Page 2542]

deaf ears." So my first question to the Premier is, how many more of these bad news stories are you going to push aside before you realize that gas regulation was a mistake for our province?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I'll refer that to the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, we did see the article in today's paper. I can tell the honourable member and members of the House that we have been working from the start with re-wholesalers, or resellers, to try to find a balance for them. In terms of the retailers and the wholesalers, the intent of regulation is to provide a balance. To be quite frank, sometimes with forward averaging, the retailers and wholesalers gain a little bit. Sometimes with the forward averaging they don't have, but we try to make it up when we set the formula. So we are aware of this problem and we are working at it.

MR. SAMSON: The best thing for all Nova Scotians, Mr. Minister, if you were working on getting rid of it, is what Nova Scotians are telling you right now. It seems as if it's a weekly occurrence that I'm forced to stand in my place and fight for rural retailers and consumers of this province. This Premier has put a system in place with the support of the NDP, which hurts both, and by not admitting fault and by not retracting a system, this Premier is signalling to the people of Nova Scotia that he simply does not care.

This Premier has admitted that gas regulation would bring higher prices, which it has, but at the time he touted that stability and protection for retailers were more important. Regulation has given us instability and is forcing rural retailers to close up shop because they cannot get supply under the system. So my question again to the Premier is, what are you going to say to the people of your old neighbourhood and your own riding when you force them out of business because of gas regulation?

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

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, following the URB hearing about gas regulation, which by the way, unfortunately, the gas resellers did not attend, the department began actively having discussions on transportation costs and options and it continues to do.

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, we've heard the statements made before about weak leadership in this province, and when the Premier won't even respond to questions about an issue, which is affecting his own constituents, in his own backyard, it's extremely disappointing and it apparently is a further sign that the government, hopefully, is starting to back away from the gas regulation system. While the NDP and its leader still continues to say what a wonderful system it is, each week, we see retailers, the people themselves who are supposed to be protected under regulation, the retailers,

[Page 2543]

coming forward. This is not the Liberal caucus making up these stories. They are the retailers themselves, coming to us, asking for someone to stand up for them and to try to defend their best interests.

So, Mr. Speaker, we've seen the results that regulation has had. It hasn't brought price stability . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Question, please.

MR. SAMSON: . . . it has brought higher prices. It has caused grief for retailers. Therefore my question to the Premier - I know it's a sensitive issue for the NDP. That's fine. My question to Premier is, when will your government table in this House the details of the upcoming review of gas regulation?

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

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, just for the information of the honourable member - two things. Just a little history lesson for him. One, back in the Spring, the honourable member, who then represented Victoria-The Lakes, made a passionate plea for gas regulation and had the full support of the Liberal caucus at that time; and secondly, I want to remind the honourable member that of the 10 independent retailers in Richmond Country, six of those people have opted for gas regulation.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

TPW - MOORE'S LANDING: PERMIT REQUESTS - REFUSAL EXPLAIN

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, my question this afternoon will be through you to the Minister of Transportation and Public Works. On May 23, 2003, Moore's Landing on Queensland Beach was destroyed by fire. David Moore had purchased the property in 1994 and operated Moore's Landing between May and October, providing much-needed employment in the area. Following the fire, Mr. Moore was fully intent on re-establishing his business and approached the government to obtain proper permits. He was refused, and since has faced numerous roadblocks in his attempt to reopen his business in rural Nova Scotia. So my question to the minister is, why is this government treating this small business so poorly?

[12:30 p.m.]

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, with the program that we have in the Department of Transportation and Public Works, and the expenditures that we've created over the life of this government, we have made life much easier for many businesses in this province as a result of the investments that we have made. If, however, there is an

[Page 2544]

individual who is having difficulty, if the honourable member wants to bring that to my attention, we'll be glad to have a look at it. I can't be expected to have the details of all these things at my fingertips.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, this matter has been brought to the department's attention on many occasions now and, in fact, this is a small business. It simply wants to re-establish itself in rural Nova Scotia. This has been a long fight for Mr. Moore. He has spent a large sum of money and invested countless hours of time trying to obtain an $8 permit. It may have been easier for him just to give up, but he decided to fight for what's right and continues to fight this fight against the system that has treated his small business so unfairly. So my question is, why is this government continuing to stand in the way of small business?

MR. MACISAAC: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. As I indicated in my answer to the first question, if the honourable member provides details, I will be glad to look at it.

MR. DEXTER: Well, Mr. Speaker, his department has all of the details. Mr. Moore is a hard-working, dedicated, small businessman who has not been able to get this minister's department to budge. Where the minister and his government is trapped in a world of indecision and they refuse to furnish Mr. Moore with the needed answers, so he's left feeling that his only option is to be bought out or forced into bankruptcy.

My question is, how will this province benefit from the Department of Transportation and Public Works bankrupting this local, small-business operator?

MR. MACISAAC: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. As I indicated to the honourable member, we will look at the details of this particular case, but I will go back to my first answer to the question in this regard. The investments we have made since 1999 in the highway program of this province has allowed many, many businesses to flourish and grow and for Nova Scotians to become very competitive.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.

ENVIRON. & LBR.: HRM PENSION COMM. - CONCERNS

MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister responsible for the Pension Benefits Act. For more than two years, the Halifax Regional Municipality's Pension Committee has been asking the province, pleading with the province, to exempt it from solvency evaluation requirements under the Act. To this day, nothing has changed, by law or by regulation, to deal with their concern. The government has, however, made that precise exception for universities.

[Page 2545]

Now, with January 1, 2007 looming and a major pension contribution increase of 5 per cent or more facing the employees of the Halifax Regional Municipality, the government remains silent. My question to the minister is, why has that minister and this government failed to take the necessary steps to address the Halifax Regional Municipality's Pension Committee's concerns?

HON. MARK PARENT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, and thank you for the question. The Department of Environment and Labour, through the Superintendent of Pensions, oversees about 500 company and municipal pension plans. The HRM is one that is overseen by this department and we have struck a committee, which Peter Kelly and myself announced, that is looking at solutions that will be amenable both to the Superintendent of Pensions and HRM.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, five weeks from now those pension contributions are going to take a significant jump. This is not my question but I just ask the minister rhetorically whether that review is going to be completed and the changes made by January 1st.

The Halifax Regional Municipality is not the only group facing a choice between reducing benefits or hiking contributions. The Nova Scotia Building and Construction Trades Council has also brought forth concerns to the government regarding the application of the solvency test to their multi-employer pension plan. In their case there are some 83 employers in the plan. The likelihood of all those employers winding up immediately is extremely remote, to the point of being impossible. So I ask the minister, why does that minister and this government refuse to make an exception for such a large, multi-employer plan, as Alberta has done?

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, in regard to the HRM pension plan, I think the member will find some good news coming forward fairly soon. In regard to his second question, I find it rather surprising that that member, who likes to lambast this Party for being too much like the Province of Alberta, is now wanting us to be like the Province of Alberta and put pension plans in jeopardy. The solvency is there to make sure the pension plans are healthy for payout. If the NDP wants me to jeopardize pension plans, I will not do so.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, none of these employers nor the unions involved want to jeopardize the pensions of the people involved. Indeed, that is exactly why they have approached this government for assistance. The solvency test is there to protect employees in the case of windup, which is not going to happen in the case of the Halifax Regional Municipality or in 83 employer pension plans.

My final question to the minister is, why does this government and this minister continue to refuse to address the concerns of the public sector and large multi-employer pension plans when it comes to these solvency requirements?

[Page 2546]

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, I can say to the honourable member that we will safeguard pension plans, and we will meet the concerns of HRM . All he has to do is watch me.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

NAT. RES.: ATV CLOSED COURSES - PROMOTION

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. The Department of Natural Resources now has regulations that loosely define a closed course for ATVs, age restrictions that apply. Loosely is the main word here. The definitions are as clear as mud. The Web site provides limited information on this important matter. We have concerns that the government is not explaining the new regulations for closed courses to the public. I'm afraid that the so-called closed courses will not be supported in getting established. My question to the minister is, can you explain to the House today how closed courses by your government are to be promoted beyond a Web site, and will your government support their development?

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, the member opposite, who is the critic for our ATV action plan, I thought would have known that closed courses would fall under my colleague's mandate - the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection - so I would refer that to him.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, and to the member opposite, yes, we will continue to support groups and individuals who are attempting to set up closed courses. It's ongoing work, and we've progressed very well and we expect to progress even further in the near future.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, quite frankly, the Government of Nova Scotia has neglected to inform the public on this subject. The fact is, those who ride all-terrain vehicles are confused about the regulations. This government has once again mismanaged the central way of life of many Nova Scotians. Whether it has been the lack of communication or the confusion around ATV registration, it is clear that the minister and his government are taking a laissez-faire attitude toward this issue. Dealers in this province told us they have had no information on the amnesty for registration, and thousands are still unregistered. This is extremely important to Nova Scotians. My question to the minister is, why have you neglected to clearly communicate ATV regulations to the public, and are you prepared to extend the amnesty for registration?

MR. BARNET: Mr. Speaker, what I'll tell the member opposite is that we have communicated directly to ATV owners, through ATVANS and through the dealers - something that I know ATVANS has been trying to do with the member opposite but hasn't been successful in communicating to that member to be able to convey their interest.

[Page 2547]

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, there's a big job to be done, because ATVANS only has 3,000 members. Landowners are hesitant to provide written permission to allow ATV riders to drive on their private land. This is also hindering the ability to start the initial process of constructing a trail, because it has not been clearly stated to landowners that they are not liable. It plainly states so in the Act, yet the government has slackened off and not informed everyone of the correct practice. People are uncertain what they can and cannot do with respect to ATVs and it is the duty of this government to clearly translate what is accurate in accordance to these regulations. My question to the minister is, will you take control of this issue and communicate the proper set of rules with respect to ATVs and the regulations that apply?

MR. BARNET: Mr. Speaker, that's exactly what we are doing. We are communicating directly with ATV owners through ATVANS and through the dealers. I would say to the member opposite, I know that ATVANS has been trying to meet with representatives from his caucus, they expressed that to me directly. David Borden had indicated to me that he tried to set up a meeting but was delayed until January. So, I would encourage him to listen to the ATV owners as well.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou East.

ENVIRON. & LBR.: WCB - CHRONIC PAIN COMPENSATION

MR. CLARRIE MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Environment and Labour. The minister told us on November 9th that the Workers' Compensation Board was working diligently in response to the Supreme Court decision on chronic pain and that staff was looking at who's entitled to chronic pain compensation. I would like to table a draft letter to chronic pain sufferers, which I received this morning, which states that WCB will start to process the pre-Charter workers waiting for a decision using the current policies. So, I would like to ask this minister, what on earth has the Workers' Compensation Board been doing for the past year?

HON. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, as the honorable member knows, when the Supreme Court made its decision, there were a lot of chronic pain cases that the Workers' Compensation Board had to look at. They have been looking at those. So, these haven't been necessarily held up because of the year wait, but what they've done in the year is look at whether there was some other way to deal with the situation other than allowing them to go to appeal and putting them through the appeal process. In the end, I understand the Workers' Compensation Board decided that allowing them to go to appeal and the appeal process was the best thing to do.

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, over 1,300 people have been waiting for years to have their claims heard. A copy of this letter will be going out to these injured workers soon, telling them that their claims will be processed on a business as usual

[Page 2548]

basis. Not only that, those claims will not be completed until December 2007, which is yet another year of pain and suffering. I would like to ask the minister why the WCB is doing everything in its power to avoid processing claims the Supreme Court judged to be entitled to compensation?

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, the Supreme Court made a decision on the chronic pain and the WCB responded to that by covering chronic pain for all people who received chronic pain after the Charter, 1995. So I don't know what the member is saying, that we're not listening to the Supreme Court decision because obviously we are.

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, speed is more than a drug. It would appear that the Workers' Compensation Board is still discriminating against pre-Charter chronic pain claims. The regulations clearly state that the pre-Charter injuries should be compensated. So, my final question for the minister is, when are you going to direct the WCB to comply with the Supreme Court judgment made over three years ago?

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, as a Baptist minister, I know very little about speed or other drugs, I'm afraid, so I can't answer that one. Nonetheless, I will be very clear here, the WCB and the government acceded very quickly to the Supreme Court request, and all chronic pain that people have whether it resulted from an injury before 1995 or not (Interruptions) 1985, that developed after 1985, will be compensated.

[12:45 p.m.]

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

NSP: RENEWABLE ENERGY - INITIATIVES

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Energy. Nova Scotia Power recently submitted a brief to the Department of Energy in which it proposed that the government's new targets for renewable energy would result in higher costs to Nova Scotian households. What's worrying about this is that Nova Scotia Power wonders whether using more green energy works best for Nova Scotians. I'd like to ask this minister, how does he plan to respond to Nova Scotia Power's latest attempt to wriggle out of increasing renewable energy production in this province?

HON. WILLIAM DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I believe the member is making reference to certain comments that were in the media this morning. I read those comments with disappointment this morning. I'm going to make my decision very clear. Mr. Tedesco is the President of Nova Scotia Power; I am the Minister of Energy. This government cares about people, it cares about ratepayers, and it cares about our environment. This Department of Energy will be moving forward with renewable targets with regard to wind or other sources of renewable energy.

[Page 2549]

MR. CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, well, through you, again, to the Minister of Energy. Nova Scotia Power is applying George Bush-speak to the issue of renewable energy, and are now talking about pollution intensity. The CEO of NSP is quoted in yesterday's ChronicleHerald as saying, that reducing the amount of energy produced by coal plants will make "these large facilities become less cost- effective and (put out) more emissions per unit of electricity produced." The Ecology Action Centre and GPI Atlantic and any reasonable-thinking person would agree that less coal-produced energy equals less pollution overall. It is clearly a red herring by Nova Scotia Power. I want to ask this minister, who does he believe?

MR. DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I thought I made myself perfectly clear. This government has a green, clean plan for Nova Scotia. We are moving ahead to cut emissions in a number of programs that I stood in my place a number of times in this session and explained to that member those certain programs. We take pride in the initiatives that we're putting forward, and we will achieve our goals and our targets for Nova Scotians, for Nova Scotians.

MR. CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, again to the Minister of Energy through you. We have increased renewable energy production very slowly in this province thanks to this minister. Nova Scotia Power has constantly asked for rate increases because the cost of fossil fuel, fossil fuel that's been imported from Third World countries, largely made on almost slave labour, not because of the cost of wind turbines. I'm sure the minister agrees with me that Nova Scotia Power's dependency on imported fossil fuels is a greater risk to the ratepayers than the rapidly-reducing costs of wind turbines. I want to ask this minister my final supplementary, how are you going to show the strong leadership role in this matter that environmental organizations are calling for you to do?

MR. DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I do not stand in my place and just spout words today. The department is moving ahead with a number of initiatives to ensure and to require energy producers to supplement and to put in line a certain content of new energy. As a matter of fact, renewable energy standards regulations are being put in place, which that member certainly knows about, and will be put in place by the new year, 2007.

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

EDUC. - ESL: FUNDING - ADEQUACY

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education. Clayton Park is home to more immigrants and newcomers than any other single riding in Nova Scotia. At Park West School, there are 80 students needing English as a Second Language help. Thirty of those are considered non-functioning as they don't speak English at all. The school has 1.3 teachers assigned for this task. In the Ottawa-Carlton District School Board, non-functioning ESL students are given full-time support,

[Page 2550]

but at Park West School, these students get only 30 minutes a day, of help. My question for the Minister of Education is, does the minister feel that 30 minutes per day, of ESL support is sufficient for non-functioning students?

HON. KAREN CASEY: MR. Speaker, to the member opposite, I would like acknowledge that we welcome and encourage students into our schools and if there is an ESL issue, we want to make sure that we address that. We have a process in place where we do communicate with school boards as to the number of students they have, who are needing that service. That information is provided. The funding is given to the board and allocated as the board sees fit. I would like to also acknowledge that we currently have 656 students who are receiving ESL support.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, unlike the minister's answer, one thing is clear, the government is not meeting the needs of ESL students in this province. At one of our local schools, parents came with their children and were told that they would get the 30 minutes a day, that was it, and they left. We don't even know where they went. It wasn't sufficient to support the integration of those students. Halifax Regional School Board has 90 per cent of the ESL students in this province, and it's not getting the support it needs. While provincial money has led to seven teachers being hired by HRSB, that pales in comparison to the 12 further ESL teachers hired through supplementary funding dollars, and as I pointed out, there are still not enough teachers. My question for the minister is, why has this government abdicated its responsibility to fund ESL adequately in the Halifax Regional School Board?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I would repeat that providing ESL support, is the responsibility of the school boards and if I could just make reference to the Halifax board, this current budget is showing that board with an increase of 5.9 per cent. So this government has been very generous to that board, and we would expect them to use that to meet the needs of all students.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, 5.9 per cent won't go a long way when you're underfunded to start with and you have a target to double the number of immigrants to this province. I'd like to point out that at the provincial level, there is no provincial coordinator for ESL. That means there's no common curriculum, standards, outcomes, in fact, no strong commitment to ESL. My question is, why has the minister ignored the needs of ESL students in Nova Scotia?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, if I could, in addition to the dollars that come from the Department of Education, we are very appreciative of dollars from the Office of Immigration, to help support ESL in our schools.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Citadel.

HEALTH - HORNE CASE: REINSTATEMENT - DETAILS

[Page 2551]

MR. LEONARD PREYRA: Mr. Speaker, My question is for the Minister of Health. The minister is well aware that Dr. Gabrielle Horne has waited for almost four years to have her case resolved. When asked about this issue on July 7, 2006, at the Committee of the Whole House on Supply you stated, we didn't have to bring down the big hammer of legislation, but it would have been next, should this not have been resolved. Four years is a long time. It is long enough that the medical community and the university community is now wondering, how long the minister was planning to let this case go on before putting legislation in place to stop it?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, to the member opposite, of the course the case that he is referring to is one that has been dealt with through capital district, with aid from our department, through the course of action. So were hoping that a case like this will not happen again.

MR. PREYRA: Mr. Speaker, Dr. Horne's privileges have been reinstated, but four years of attacks on her professional reputation, the closure of her research program and millions of dollars that the Department of Health spent on legal fees, are still there. This treatment of a health professional sends a signal out to doctors and medical researchers who may have at one point considered coming to Nova Scotia to practice, that our province does not protect its doctors and medical researchers. My question is, what is your department doing to ensure that more innocent doctors do not have their hospital practice or research privileges varied and reputations tarnished?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I know throughout this process it is a very difficult one. I'm very glad to know that the individual the member opposite references is back in employ and doing the work that she so dearly loves to do and that we are so very happy to support her in doing.

Mr. Speaker, what we are going to try to do - and I know there has been some regulation changes along with the bylaws of the Capital District, so we'll continue to work with them to make sure that this will not happen again.

MR. PREYRA: Mr. Speaker, my next question is for the Premier. On October 2, 2006, you received a letter from the Canadian Association of University Teachers, calling on you to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. You passed this letter off to the Minister of Health who, on October 20, 2006, responded that the department's Bylaws Steering Group was incorporating revisions into the District Health Authorities Medical Staff bylaws. My question to the Premier is, will you now table these revisions?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I refer that to the minister responsible.

[Page 2552]

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Again, those revisions are currently underway. As far as I understand, they are still within that committee and as soon as that committee does its work, they will be available to all Nova Scotians.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Annapolis.

SERVICE N.S. & MUN. REL.: BRIDGETOWN FIRE HALL - FUNDING

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

I would like to follow up with the minister on a question from yesterday regarding the Bridgetown Fire Hall's rejected application for funding under the Canada-Nova Scotia-Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund. Since I asked my question, it has come to my attention that at least one fire hall in Nova Scotia has had to register as a non-profit society in order to qualify for government funding.

Mr. Speaker, the Bridgetown Fire Hall is in desperate need, and it is desperately needed in that area. Firefighters are working in cramped quarters, in a building that is outdated and unsafe. So my question to the minister is, will the Bridgetown Fire Hall have to register as a non-profit society to be considered for government funding?

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, as the honourable member - and we established yesterday, as a result of his questions, that funding for fire halls was available under the Canada-Nova Scotia Municipal Infrastructure Program. You know, those programs are periodic and in the new program that was evolved or developed by the federal government, fire halls were not eligible. Indeed, you know he might want to talk to his Member of Parliament down there, who presumably was representing the area and it was under his watch where the change took place.

Mr. Speaker, the rules are set by the federal government and if the Bridgetown community wishes to put that in writing and send a formal request to the department or a request to the department for a formal response, I'll see that a detailed one is prepared.

MR. MCNEIL: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to tell the minister that it was actually under this government that this program changed. I don't know who is running your department, but there have been many applications sent in from Bridgetown regarding the fire hall, so do you want them to send you another one?

Mr. Speaker, the Bridgetown Fire Hall should not be forced to have to incorporate as a non-profit society to be considered for funding, and neither should any other fire department in this province. Fire halls are a fundamental and important piece

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of infrastructure in our communities in Nova Scotia. Yesterday, the minister said that Truro received funding under this program.

[1:00 p.m.]

So my question is to the minister, does the minister think that other communities should be forced to change their fire halls to development associations so that they can qualify for funding, or should they just be treated like Truro?

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I think it is important to clarify that Truro did receive funding under the previous program. That program was terminated and a new program was developed. The new program, which was developed by the former federal government - Liberal - did not include fire halls as eligible things. They moved from basically, you would say, physical buildings to more green projects.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, yesterday in response to my question, the minister said he would write the federal government and ask for fire halls to once again be included in the infrastructure program. I thank the minister for that, but I think the minister should go further than simply writing a letter to his cousins in Ottawa. Bridgetown needs a new fire hall so firefighters can properly respond to emergencies. My question is, will the minister commit to actively and aggressively lobbying the federal government to ensure that fire stations will once again be included in the infrastructure program?

MR. MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I want to remind the honourable member that those guidelines are normally developed in consultation with municipalities. I committed yesterday to write to the federal government to suggest that fire halls be included in the next program that is developed, and I will do so.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Queens.

ENVIRON. & LBR. - MINIMUM WAGE: INCREASE - TIME FRAME

MS. VICKI CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Environment and Labour. I would like to table a report, Working Together for Ongoing Food Costing and Policy Solutions to Build Food Security, published last July by the Atlantic Health Promotion Research Centre. According to the report, the average monthly cost to provide a basic, nutritious diet for a family of four here in Nova Scotia is $617.42. The provincial minimum wage is $7.15 an hour. That's at least 80 hours of work each month just to feed your family the basics. Take tax, energy and transportation costs out of this sum, and there isn't much left for a nutritious diet. When will the Minister of Environment and Labour be announcing an increase in the minimum wage in Nova Scotia?

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HON. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, it sounds like a hackneyed response but it's a true one in this case - soon, very soon.

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, we have heard "soon, very soon" far too often. According to the Canadian Community Health Survey, Nova Scotia has one of the highest rates of income-related food insecurity across Canada. Research shows that families surviving on minimum-wage jobs cannot eat properly, no matter how carefully they manage their shopping. Single parents from Nova Scotia are 3.3 times more likely than those from the Atlantic Provinces to experience food insecurity. I'd like to ask the minister, how is he going to take this report into consideration when considering the recommendations of the 2006 Minimum Wage Review Committee?

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, thank you for the question. As the member may know, as the member referenced in her question, there is a Minimum Wage Review Committee that will be reporting to me at the end of this month, I believe, or perhaps a week after that, consisting of two employers and two employees. I'm looking forward to hearing from that committee, and will be reviewing their request and their proposals very carefully.

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, thanks to the valuable work undertaken by the review committee, the minimum wage has increased by almost 20 per cent since 2002, however, the fact that Nova Scotian families still can't eat a proper diet on the minimum wage salary shows us the distance we have yet to go. I ask the minister to confirm that he will promptly implement any increase recommended by the review committee to the minimum wage.

MR. PARENT: Mr. Speaker, thank you very much for the question. That review committee was put in place just for that reason, in order to be able to recommend reviews and to bring them forward. It did so on October 1, 2005, where it increased the level from $6.50 to $6.80; then again on April 1st of this year to $7.15. I think that the honourable member has a bit of a track record to know that this government will take that proposal from the Minimum Wage Review Committee very seriously and act on it very quickly.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

HEALTH: TECHNICAL AIDS PROG. - ESTABLISH

MS. MICHELE RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, my question through you is for the Minister of Health. Malcolm Forsyth is a retired government employee who became paraplegic in 1997. For the past nine years, his wife has cared for him at home without asking for help from the province. His daughter estimates that her mother, in this way, has saved the province some $540,000. Now, however, Mrs. Forsythe is no longer able to physically lift her husband, and needs a $5,000 ceiling lift, which neither her

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husband's health insurance nor the province will help the family to acquire. My question to the minister is, why has this province not followed the lead of other provinces, putting a technical aids program in place for families like the Forsythes?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, we do have a number of programs that can help out in these situations, of course not to the amount that the member opposite does refer to. I know that we just recently transferred $1 million to the Department of Community Services for these types of renovations and changes to homes. I think if the member opposite would share the information with me, we could see what we could do to help them out.

MS. RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, I believe the minister knows that I have shared this information with him previously by copy of the letter, which I will table, addressed to the minister from Pamela Forsythe and copied to me. May I table this?

The family has been left with the option of only putting Mr. Forsythe into long-term care or allowing Mrs. Forsythe to attempt to continue to care for him. She is endangering the health of both in the process. The Premier has publicly stated that his government's goal is to keep people in their own homes. For want of this $5,000 lift, it cannot be done. I would like to ask the minister, why has his department and the Department of Community Services not coordinated programs, so that such families as that of Mr. Forsythe are not forced to put their disabled Nova Scotian family members into long-term care prematurely?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, this underlines an issue that we've been talking about a lot over the last number of weeks in regard to bed placements in province, the expanding of our long-term care system. But I think what we have not talked about over the last number of weeks are the other changes within the Continuing Care Strategy that look towards keeping more of our seniors in their homes by providing them with certain services, whether it be through home care or whether it be through equipment that the member opposite has referred to.

MS. RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, I hope that that answer actually means that the Forsythes will soon be hearing that there is in fact help available for them in order to keep Mr. Forsythe in his own home. This government does say that people should stay in their own homes, but so far has not been willing to provide the help for Mr. Forsythe to allow this to happen. My final question, then, is, when will the minister admit that the desire to keep people in their own homes is so far solely at the family's financial and person expense?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, this province and this department works very hard through our long-term care facilities, works very hard through our home care services, the millions and millions of dollars that we spent on a yearly basis to make sure

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that we help keep seniors in their homes, to make sure that respite options are available, to help families help their own families. We are here to do the best we can do but through the Continuing Care Strategy, we will look at the expansion of all these services.

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

IMMIGRATION - IMMIGRANT CHILDREN: ESL NEEDS - ADDRESS

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, my question today is for the Minister of Immigration. In the Nova Scotia Immigration strategy, which was published January 2005, on Page 17 it states as one of its goals that they will "Work with the Nova Scotia Department of Education and the regional school boards to ensure that the language needs of immigrant children are addressed" Learning English for the newcomers to Canada is the most important need that these families have in order to settle in our province. My question is quite straightforward, can the minister tell this House what steps have been taken to ensure that the ESL needs of immigrant children are addressed?

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, in 2005 the Department of Education carried out a needs assessment on ESL in our school systems. At that point in time, it was recognized that more funding was needed. At that point in time, there was $250,000 from the Department of Immigration and $100,000 from the Department of Education. This government increased that budget this year by approximately 40 per cent.

MS. WHALEN: It's interesting that the minister mentions that a needs assessment was done. I don't think that the 40 per cent comes anywhere near meeting the gap that was identified in that needs assessment. It's good to hear about increases in funding, I will say that, but this is an urgent need for newcomers to our city and to our province. I would like to ask the minister again, does the minister actually believe that this amount of funding is meeting the needs of the newcomers to Nova Scotia?

MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, the province made a commitment to increase the amount of money provided for ESL in our school system. We did that. We committed more than $200,000 in additional funding in this year's budget.

MS. WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, the government has set a goal of getting 3,600 immigrants per year to arrive in Nova Scotia by 2010 and they hope to retain 70 per cent of those newcomers. At Rockingham Elementary School, in my riding, even the neediest students get only 45 minutes a week of help with ESL. This has already caused some families to settle in other areas. My final question to the minister is, why would the minister expect immigrants to settle and stay in Nova Scotia if we can't properly address the ESL needs of their children?

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MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, in this budget alone we increased our settlement funding by more than $500,000, this is a considerable amount of money, as well as putting an additional $200,000 in ESL in our school system. I'm sure that any minister here, and any department, would love to see a 40 per cent increase in their budget for a program.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants East.

HEALTH - BRIMICOMBE CASE: HOME CARE - DETAILS

MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, my question will be for the Minister of Health. I approached the minister three weeks ago today on behalf of Alva Brimicombe. Mrs. Brimicombe was a recipient of home care services in Shubenacadie until she went to visit her daughter in Alberta and while there, she broke her leg. Upon her return, she stayed with her son and daughter-in-law until she was well enough to return to her apartment in Shubenacadie. At that time, Mrs. Brimicombe was denied home care service, because her stay in Alberta caused a break in home care service for seven days, which put her at the bottom of the list of recipients. So my question to the minister is, can the minister please explain to this House and to Mrs. Brimicombe how, despite previously receiving home care, she is now being denied when her need is even greater?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, as the member opposite knows, home care services for each area are booked on an hourly basis, making sure that we have the correct amount of service for all the individuals requiring home care services. The policy clearly states that if there is a break in service for over a week, they are taken off that list and put somewhere else until they ask for it again. I know that the case the member brings forward is unfortunate and I'm still looking into the matter to find out when the service might be reinstated.

MR. MACDONELL: Well, he said two things there, Mr. Speaker. One, he said with all recipients and the other, he said looking into the matter, but I don't think he's looking very far. I told Mrs. Brimicombe three weeks ago that I had spoken to the minister on her behalf and that someone would be calling her on this issue. Well, she's still waiting. Alva Brimicombe is a 79-year-old woman who lives alone and is recovering from a broken leg and previously had home care services. So I want this minister to explain what compassionate Tory policy would allow a 79-year-old woman, who is recovering from a broken leg, living alone, what would deny her home care service? Explain that policy.

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, the member opposite knows full well that there are a number of people sitting on that list. There are a number of people waiting to get home care services. So we are trying to take care of as many of these people as we

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possibly can. Because of the human resource issue, the issues that we do have, there are only so many people to go around.

MR. MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, if the minister has clearly identified the problem, why doesn't he fix it. So I want to ask the minister, when will you change this ridiculous policy and provide the needed help to people like Mrs. Brimicombe? It's pretty simple.

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I know the member opposite feels that this is a simple issue, but it really has to do with the human resources being available. Making sure that we have the individuals who can go out to the homes and provide this service. It has no real bearing on the amount of money that we're providing to the agency that's providing the service. We just simply need the warm bodies, in order to go out and do the work. We need to have correct and trained individuals who can actually go out and do the home-care services that these folks require. So I don't know if the member opposite is suggesting maybe that we should just take anyone off the street and get them to give service. I think what we're trying to do is make sure that we have a good home care system and all of that is being dealt with, within the Continuing Care Strategy.

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

HEALTH: SENIORS PHARMACARE - AFFORDABILITY

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health. We all know that the Pharmacare Programs in this province are not accessible. The minister himself stated earlier this month that there are 160,000 Nova Scotians without drug coverage in this province. Many individuals who are eligible for the Seniors' Pharmacare Program, however, cannot afford the co-payments. Individuals pay $30 per prescription, to a maximum of $360, plus an annual premium of up to $400. This is too much money for low-income seniors to pay. So my question to the Minister of Health is, what do you plan to do to make the Seniors' Pharmacare Program more affordable and accessible for all seniors living in Nova Scotia?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, we have referenced a number of occasions, the working families' Pharmacare Program, one that our Premier has been so diligent in making sure that we provide by 2008. We continue to do our work there. The member opposite references a $30 issue. As far as I understand through the Pharmacare Program is that the co-pay is about 30 percent, so I offer the member opposite to provide me with details or maybe a receipt to show me the $30.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): The Minister of Health better watch what he asks for. He may be inundated with a lot of receipts from seniors who find it hard to pay for their prescriptions, here in this province. When people cannot afford

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their co-payments, they become less compliant about taking their drugs, or they choose between food and their needed medications. They're doing this on a daily basis in this province. Improper use of medications creates an environment where individuals require more trips to the overcrowded emergency rooms, more reliance on nursing home beds here in this province. So my question to the Minister of Health is, when is your department going to realize the gravity of the Pharmacare situation in Nova Scotia and move towards keeping people on their meds, and out of hospital beds?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, the member opposite knows also that within the Pharmacare Program, that we do take care of folks over the age of 65. That is, of course, income-tested. If the member is receiving GIS, they don't pay the premium at all and do pay the co-pay. We are trying to do the best we can that we can with the funds that are available to our department. We continue to work with the Senior Citizens' Secretariat as well as the Group of Nine, to ensure that we're being fair and equitable to all seniors in this province.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, I don't think the Minister of Health understands what seniors go through every day in this province. Some of them have to pay up to $700 for co-payments or their premiums, just to belong to the Seniors' Pharmacare Program. They're choosing between taking medication and food and heat. That's something that seniors in this province need help with and help from this government, in order to live in our province. So I think the government needs to act on this and put the interests of seniors first in this province. (Applause)

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

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, on a point of order. I'm sure that the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection didn't want to give the House false information during his answer. Just to advise him and advise Hansard that ATVANS did meet with the Liberal caucus immediately after their meeting with the PC caucus. Just for the record, to indicate that. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister for Health Promotion and Protection.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I certainly wouldn't want to mislead the House, but what I was referring to was ATVANS, Nova Scotia Association. The honourable member met with the dealers. There was a representative from ATVANS, but I do know that the communications spokesperson for ATVANS contacted me directly and indicated that he had tried to set up a meeting in November but was delayed until January, and has no firm date for a meeting with the critic opposite, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: I will take that as a matter of a difference of opinion between two honourable members.

[Page 2560]

The honourable Minister of Natural Resources on an introduction.

HON. DAVID MORSE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today we have two distinguished volunteers in the gallery. They represent the Shubenacadie Canal Commission. The Shubenacadie Canal is an important part of Nova Scotia's heritage. It was built almost 200 years ago. I would like all members of this House to please welcome John O'Connor, who is the chairman, and Allan Billard, who is a director. If the gentlemen would stand up and please accept the appreciation of the House.

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

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Yes, Mr. Speaker. Today in your gallery we have five members of the professional firefighters association, the International Association of Fire Fighters, really, is their proper term. We have Mr. Mark Bettens, Jody Wrathall and Fred Doucet from the CBRM Fire Department, and we have Pete Smith and Steve Saxon from the Truro Fire Department. They are here to watch their bill proceed through the House today. It will be my pleasure in a few moments to move third reading of that bill. In the meantime, I would ask them to stand and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health on an introduction.

HON. CHRIS D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. In the east gallery I just want to say hello to a friend of this province, Rosalind Haymond. She just moved in from Toronto to set up a naturopathic medical practice with a current physician in Clayton Park. I want to welcome her back to the province and wish her well in her new practice here in Nova Scotia. Welcome. (Applause)

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

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

PRIVATE MEMBERS' PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 91.

Bill No. 91 - Trade Union Act.

[Page 2561]

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

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Bill No. 91, the Trade Union Act, it is a pleasure for me to stand in my place here today and move third reading of this bill. As you know, the bill has proceeded through the House, with much interest from the firefighters who I introduced a few moments ago and are here with us in the gallery. I know they are anxiously waiting for this bill to pass through the House, so I would now move third reading of Bill No. 91.

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

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, have been waiting for this bill to go through, and I congratulate the member for Cape Breton South on doing this bill on public safety. Firemen put their lives on the line each and every day in our communities - and knowing quite a few members in my riding and having two stations. Guys like Ray MacDonald and Joey Pike and Frankie Jacobs and Terry Moore, and also the members Mark Bettens and Jody Wrathall, have been looking forward to this bill. This bill will only improve the health and safety of the residents that the member for Cape Breton South and myself represent. I, too, am looking forward to this bill moving forward. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Glace Bay.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Thank you. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise in support of this bill. If nothing else, this bill will keep Mr. Bettens busy. I don't see that as being a bad thing, let me tell you. I want to congratulate, in particular, all of the firefighters, but in particular Mr. Bettens for his hard work and diligence in making sure that this piece of legislation came before this Chamber, and that it will pass today. I offer my congratulations to him and his fellow firefighters. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: If I recognize the honourable member for Cape Breton South it will be to close the debate.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Yes, Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to move third reading of Bill No. 91.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 91. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

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The honourable Government House Leader.

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

[1:26 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Wayne Gaudet in the Chair.]

[2:02 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Mr. Wayne Gaudet 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. 27 - Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act.

Bill No. 30 - Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act.

Bill No. 61 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 68 - Pension Benefits Act.

Bill No. 69 - Maintenance Enforcement Act.

Bill No. 70 - Provincial Fish Act.

Bill No. 72 - Halifax Regional Water Commission Act.

Bill No. 78 - Order of Nova Scotia Act.

Bill No. 80 - Canadian Forces Reservists Civilian Employment Act.

Bill No. 86 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 87 - Consumer Protection Act.

Bill No. 88 - Richmond Stora Enso Taxation Act.

Bill No. 94 - Property Valuation Services Corporation Act.

Bill No. 95 - Municipal Government Act.

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Bill No. 107 - Midwifery Act.

Bill No. 113 - Environment Act.

Bill No. 114 - Engineering Profession Act.

Bill No. 115 - Architects Act.

Bill No. 119 - Elections Act.

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

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. 5 - Degree Granting Act.

Bill No. 14 - Public Service Act.

Bill No. 83 - Labour Standards Code.

Bill No. 92 - Assessment Act.

and the chairman has been instructed to recommend these bills to the favourable consideration of the House with certain amendments.

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

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: I wonder with the unanimous consent of the House if we can revert to the order of business, Presenting Reports of Committees.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou West.

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

Bill No. 85 - An Act Respecting the Transfer of Assets and Liabilities of the Nova Scotia Freemasons' Home to The Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia.

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

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Chairman, I would move that the bill just recently reported, Bill No. 85 I believe, by the Private and Local Bills Committee be considered on the order paper by the House with respect to the Committee of the Whole House.

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

MR. CHAIRMAN: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[2:06 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Wayne Gaudet in the Chair.]

[2:08 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Mr. Wayne Gaudet in the Chair.]

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

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

Bill No. 85 - An Act Respecting the Transfer of Assets and Liabilities of the Nova Scotia Freemasons' Home to The Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia.

and the chairman has been instructed to recommend this bill to the favourable consideration of the House, without amendment.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I move that all of the bills that have been approved by the House in Committee of the Whole House on Bills today be now considered on the order paper for third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 7.

Bill No. 7 - Registered Nurses Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I move third reading of Bill No. 7, the Registered Nurses Act. In summary, this legislation will clarify for nurses their role and it will enable nurse practitioners to better define the scope of practice and how nurses work with other health care professionals. The Act will eliminate the barriers facing nurse practitioners while following national standards. This will enable them to work in collaboration with other health care professionals.

So, Mr. Speaker, will you please call the vote on Bill No. 7.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 7. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

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The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 9.

Bill No. 9 - Municipal Government Act.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, this bill ensures that the CSAP students and the Halifax Regional School Board will receive any supplemental funding that the HRM gives to the board, in the same proportion as the Halifax Regional School Board students.

Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 9.

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

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For the record, on most of these bills on third reading we will probably be putting somebody up for a minute or two, to put something on the record. I know this is probably the last day of the House for this session, but we do have to put some stuff on the record for third reading. (Interruption) Well, thank you, I appreciate the Liberal caucus' support of our efforts.

With regard to Bill No. 9, put simply, this is a bill that came to the House. It's one the francophone community in Halifax was looking for fairness and equity with regard to the supplementary funding that is received for people who pay the tax in the former City of Dartmouth and the former City of Halifax. Again, terms that we still have to use 10 years after amalgamation because this government fails to address supplementary funding as a whole, which I find to be a sin because , in the end, a lot of people in this municipality are suffering as a result.

I would say that we're glad to see this go forward. The francophone parents who have children attending schools in Dartmouth and in Bedford will benefit from this. I only hope that in the next session we'll have an opportunity to be debating a bill that will resolve this problem once and for all. Thank you.

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

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to say a couple of words on Bill No. 9, which does allow the sharing of supplementary funding dollars among both school boards which have schools in the HRM area. I think it is important that we recognize the issue of equity and the fact that a long time has gone by with the

[Page 2567]

francophone parents, school boards and PTAs asking for this to be moved forward. I believe it is a proper thing to do, given the equity issue.

I know that overall, supplementary funding has become a problem now for both school boards because each year it does require an annual trip to Halifax Regional Municipality to argue, again, the benefits of supplementary funding. As I say, those benefits are many - I spoke today about English as a Second Language in our schools in all of HRM. It has many benefits, but it will, as well - it does cause some difficulties in securing those funds from year to year.

But I do welcome the idea of equity for all students within the HRM and certainly within my riding of Halifax Clayton Park. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Acadian Affairs.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Merçi beaucoup, M. le Président. Simplement je veux dire un remerciement à tous les intervenants sur cet project de loi. Ce projet de loi est quelque chose qui a venu à mon attention à-peu-près huit mois passer. C'est quelque chose que j'ai parlé avec le Ministre des services de Nouvelle-Écosse et l'association municipale. C'est quelque chose qu'on veut faire certain que c'est équitable à tous les personnes içi dans la municipalité de Halifax pour faire sûr que leur argent de taxe vont à leur étudiants.

Je veux remercié les parents pour apporter cette information à nous pour faire certain qu'on travaillé dessus. Je remercie la Fédération acadienne pour leur support aux parents et aussi pour leur support à CSAP qui offre des services incroyable à tous nos enfants acadienne et francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Avec ça, je vous remercie pour les interventions et je regarde pour troisième lecture de cet loi.

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

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Merçi, M. le Président, je poursuivre les commentaires fait par le Ministre des affaires acadiennes. Je veux félicité mon collègue de Halifax Clayton Park qui a suivi cette question très proche, elle a aussi travaillé très proche avec le Conseil scolaire içi à Halifax sur la question des financements des conseil scolaires içi à la municipalité de Halifax. J'aussi remercie les parents parce-que, à la fin de la journée, c'est les parents et même les élèves qui participent au Conseil scolaire acadienne provincial qui ont poursuivi en cour la question sur l'équilibre du financement sur la surtaxe de l'éducation qui existe içi dans la municipalité de Halifax.

[2:15 p.m.]

Alors je les félicite qu'ils ont permit cette Assemblée de passer ce projet de loi sans mettre le processus en cour sur cette question. Je félicite le gouvernement pour

[Page 2568]

addresser cette question sans avoir besoin d'aller en cour et à la fin de la journée nous attendons que les enfants du CSAP et les élèves du Conseil scolaire de Halifax vont recevoir les mêmes services et les mêmes niveaux de financements qui existe maintenant içi dans la municipalité de Halifax.

Alors je félicite tous les personnes, comme le Ministre de la Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse, et tous les autres organisations française-acadiennes içi à la province qui ont donné leur support pour ce projet de loi. Avec ça, je conclus mes remarques sur le projet de loi no. 9 sur la troisième lecture. Merçi.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 9. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 11.

Bill No. 11 - Licensed Practical Nurses Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 11, the Licensed Practical Nurses Act. In summary, this new legislation will help 3,058 licensed practical nurses in Nova Scotia. This legislation oversees some of the hardest working professionals in our health care system.

The government is responding to a number of challenges over which the past few years have impacted the health care system in Nova Scotia. This does go in line with Bill No. 7, as well, for the registered nurses. Could you please call the vote on Bill No. 11.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 11. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 2569]

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 12.

Bill No. 12 - Education Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the members of the Legislature for their support for this particular bill. As I've stated before, the amendment to this bill is designed to maintain high standards in our teaching profession in our province. It will allow for the expansion of corrected and reporting measures. I would move third reading of this bill. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 12. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 15.

Bill No. 15 - Municipal Government Act.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, this bill gives the HRM the power to reduce taxes on any residential properties in any fiscal year and I move third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 15. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 20.

[Page 2570]

Bill No. 20 - Public Utilities Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Environment and Labour.

HON. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 20, which prohibits Nova Scotia Power from asking for more than one rate increase in any 12-month period and will help families across Nova Scotia better budget their income.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 20. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 22.

Bill No. 22 - Motor Vehicle Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

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

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou West.

MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, I just want to briefly rise in support of Bill No. 22. I think it's a common sense bill that will protect the general public, will protect our farming community and protect the young people who are even driving farm vehicles. Basically the bill is stating the allowance for a 40 km per hour limit. I think that's good for a farm tractor with the reflective triangular sign on it, 20 km per hour limit if it's hauling a piece of farm machinery or farm equipment, but still allows for a truck to haul farm equipment without these restrictions. It's all about safety, it's all about keeping our communities, our public roads safer than they are at the present time. I think it does make sense. So I certainly support this bill in third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 22. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

[Page 2571]

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 67.

Bill No. 67 - Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I would move third reading of Bill No. 67. This is a bill that we believe will contribute to an effective and relevant system that meets the requirements of industry and ensures the safety of Nova Scotia consumers. We believe the changes will benefit our skilled tradespeople, our employers, the apprenticeship system, and all Nova Scotia consumers. I move third reading of Bill No. 67.

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

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I think it's important, as we go through these bills, to put the continuing concerns that have been brought forward on this particular bill to our attention. I think it's of some consequence that I say again for the record, the certificate of proficiency is quite different from the certificate of qualification. We are more concerned about the fact that this certificate of proficiency is merely a transitional step on the way to making sure that that red seal of approval that Nova Scotia is known for across this province and across this country and across this continent, that that certificate of qualification, that must be the ultimate goal when it comes to the apprenticeship program in this province. That's what we're known for, whether it's health standards, safety standards or educational standards. I hope that will continue to be a goal of this particular Department of Education. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I'm just going to say a couple of words about this bill. I think it's a very positive bill for many Nova Scotians who haven't had the opportunity through the formal education process to be qualified to do a trade, a particular trade, they have the experience and knowledge in. I'm very confident, after dealing with the department many years in qualification of tradespeople that it will be done properly, and it will ensure that many families will have income that was not available to them before in Nova Scotia, and will give us more qualified tradespeople who will help all Nova Scotians.

[Page 2572]

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 67. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 84.

Bill No. 84 - Wind Turbine Facilities Municipal Taxation Act.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 84.

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

MR. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I have just a very few words on this. First of all, I think it's, again, worth stating for the record and putting forward, the amount of work the UNSM put in on this - the unanimity and how they put some of their differences aside to get this bill through. They're to be congratulated. In real terms, someone with a large generating station from Nova Scotia Power in their constituency, we would like to see taxation in a real way in those real properties that the municipalities in which they exist, they would be taxed for that purpose. Other than that, we will be supporting this bill.

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

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, on second reading of this bill I had risen and raised some concerns about several aspects of the bill, which I would like to reiterate again today and just say why I'm disappointed with the bill. I know we've said a lot about UNSM working closely with the industry to come up with this solution. I don't really see it so much as a solution as just a lesser of two evils. I think some of the big players in the industry have just felt this is something better than nothing, let's move ahead. My key concern is it's a win-win for the current players in the industry and for the municipalities who now know what tax they can collect, but it doesn't do anything to advance our cause for the industry and for improving renewables in Nova Scotia. I think there are a lot of factors, there are other costs too, like provincial taxation, that are big, but this is one of the issues that should be looked at.

[Page 2573]

I guess what I'm saying, Mr. Speaker, is it should be part of a comprehensive plan for renewable energy in the province and instead, we're looking at one piece of the puzzle, which is the municipal taxation, which has been a cause of concern for the industry up to this point.

Again, I say I don't think that this is advancing the cause for renewable energy in the province, for green energy. I think it has another significant flaw and that is that it has a two-tier taxation system in the bill, one if you are currently in business and have a contract with Nova Scotia Power and another if you don't and the difference is $1,000 per megawatt hour for the power generators. So the people investing in wind energy will be paying more in future than the current people in the industry and I think that is a significant flaw which should be pointed out. It brings our municipal taxation down significantly but it leaves us in the middle of the pack with other provinces and if we're serious about leading the country and if all the rhetoric we hear about being leaders in green energy is true, then we should be leading the country in having the lowest taxation regime. So I am not really happy to see us down at the rate which makes us three times the municipal rate of taxes in Quebec and double the rates that are in effect in Ontario.

Mr. Speaker, I had the chance to speak to a number of other players in the industry, or would-be players, and they are discouraged by this. We didn't hear from them at Law Amendments Committee and I think it is important to note that. It may be disappointing that they didn't come and express their view, but I think it is fair to say that this is a fledgling industry in our province and those people are not as organized, and perhaps not as organized as lobbyists as they might otherwise be, but I feel it is important that in the House we talk about the fact that this industry needs a lot of co-operation, a lot of work.

If we are serious about what all of us are saying, and I know we are all committed to making a better world, then I hope that we will be looking at some other legislation down the road as well that might make a difference and perhaps make this better, because this is only a first step, it is only dealing with one element of their costs and I don't believe it is doing it well enough.

Under this current tax regime, the wind power generators will be paying about 3 per cent of their gross revenue for taxation at the municipal level and I guess later we'll look at what that would be at a provincial level as well.

The other thing I wanted to raise was that these wind turbines are not absorbing any real municipal services. So, I think that in many respects, the tax is unjustified and that if they continue to fight it in the courts that it might be proven that unlike the other utilities, like Nova Scotia Power or Aliant that use Crown lands and public lands and run their transmission lines and so on, we don't do that with wind power. So there are several reasons why I think it is absolutely not a good bill and I will not be supporting the bill when it comes through. I may be alone in my dissension, so I'm just signalling

[Page 2574]

that I, myself, will not be supporting the bill and I hope that we'll be able to make more strides forward in the future on green energy. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, have some concerns about this bill. I think this is a step backwards, when we're trying to generate green energy in Nova Scotia and trying to get things to move forward, that we have cleaner energy and be more self-sufficient in energy. Allowing the municipalities to tax windmills at this rate is setting a new standard in the province, which I think is not appropriate, and I am sure that this Legislature is going to be faced with this problem in the future. There is going to have to be another bill back here some time in the future, to correct this situation, to make it more possible for wind energy and other renewable energy sources to be used in the province.

If we're going to be competitive in the world market, we have to become more energy efficient, we have to have lower costs of energy and we have to have clean energy. I think the bill does address an immediate concern with the companies that are involved and it takes a huge tax liability away. It does create an uneven playing field for the companies that are in the business now and the new companies that will come in afterwards and it is costing the taxpayers of the Province of Nova Scotia a substantial amount of money to subsidize, basically, the tax rate for some of the individual companies.

So all in all it is not a very good deal for Nova Scotians. I feel that it needs to be better. I believe that the provincial taxes on windmills and renewable energy sources have to be reduced, maybe eliminated, to ensure that these facilities are encouraged to come here and encouraged to do things.

[2:30 p.m.]

Indeed, in the news today, if they meet their 20 per cent requirement on renewable energy, Nova Scotia Power claims it's going to cost over $1 billion to do that, and $60 million or so in yearly expenses. I'm sure that those windmills, if they do put them in place, will be taxed the same way. That's going to be another burden - eventually it's going to put the power rates up for Nova Scotians, and that's something we cannot afford to do.

All things being said, I'm going to support this bill only because it does make an improvement in how the taxation is done. It makes it possible for some of these companies to come forward, but this is an issue that has to come back here, and really has to be addressed properly so we can put renewable energy in the forefront in Nova Scotia and really make clean, affordable energy available to all Nova Scotians. Thank you.

[Page 2575]

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 84. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 89.

Bill No. 89 - Provincial Court Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 89.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 89. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: We have some visitors in the gallery who have been waiting for this bill to be dealt with - it is out of sequence but, Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 107.

Bill No. 107 - Midwifery Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, if I could have the indulgence of the House for a moment, I'd like to make a couple of introductions. From the Midwifery Coalition, Jan Catano and Katherine Berry. Also, from the Atlantic Centre of Excellence for Women's Health, Marlo Shinyay and Dr. Christine Saulnier. I know they've been very patient today, watching the deliberations, so I'll ask them to rise and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

[Page 2576]

Mr. Speaker, this has been a bill that, of course, has been around for a long time, the discussion of it. I'm very happy to have brought this one through the House. This is but one step in making the lives of Nova Scotians that much better by offering them medical services that make sense. Midwives have been around for centuries providing good services to women and to families, and I'm very proud to bring this piece forward.

Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 107.

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

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, I just want to have a few words on this bill. I'm glad to see this piece of legislation finally come to the floor of this Legislature - many individuals have worked very hard over a number of decades to get to this point. I want to make it very clear to the government that the midwives and the association and all those involved in this process are putting great faith in the government to honour some of the commitments that aren't in this piece of legislation, that they'll be true to their word - and I'm referencing the funding of midwives in the profession of midwifery in this province. It's instrumental that the government recognize the importance of including this under the Medicare system and under the public system in this province. (Applause)

We know, especially with the recent introduction of legislation, and some of the comments over this session, the last session, from the government, from the Minister of Health, around the possibility of private delivery of health care in this province - I want him to know that our caucus and myself are going to work hard to ensure that the public system is protected in this province, that the public system is funded in this province in the appropriate way, and that the midwives, who have worked so hard - and as the minister stated earlier have been doing this job since the beginning of history - to get the recognition and the support they need from the government and from the public health care system.

So with those few words, Mr. Speaker, I'll take my seat and I'll look forward to the implications and the inclusion of this profession under the public system here in Nova Scotia.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Glace Bay.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, as my colleague from the NDP has said, this is an important piece of legislation, which has taken a great deal of time to come before this House, which has taken a great deal of patience by the Association of Nova Scotia Midwives and midwives throughout this province. It's a lesson you never give up, never give up, and they know that now. They have not given up over the past decade or more that they've been trying to get this through this House.

[Page 2577]

Now, Mr. Speaker, if I may, the minister knows they have put a great deal of trust and a great deal of faith in you, Mr. Minister, and in your government. You know now that you have to deliver. You know that unless public funding for midwifery is there, this will not work, no pun intended. (Interruption) Yes, no pun intended, Mr. Minister. But in this case you and your government know that unless public funding is there, this will not work. That was made perfectly clear to us by all of the speakers who appeared before the Law Amendments Committee.

Mr. Speaker, nothing sinister intended here, but the minister should know that we'll be watching. We'll be watching from here on in and we know that trust that has been put in you, Mr. Minister, and in your government, that you had better come through on this one.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 107. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 5.

Bill No. 5 - Degree Granting Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I would like to move third reading of Bill No. 5, please.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Citadel.

MR. LEONARD PREYRA: Mr. Speaker, this bill, as I've said before, although the minister argues that it's being introduced to prevent and to regulate the creation of private universities here in Nova Scotia, we believe that this bill also provides for the creation of private universities here in Nova Scotia. To the extent that it allows the minister to create private institutions here in Nova Scotia, we believe that that authority should rest with the Legislature.

The honourable Government House Leader says that this is already the law, but it has never been used, Mr. Speaker. The 11 degree granting institutions here in Nova Scotia have always drawn their authority from the Legislature. The government assures

[Page 2578]

us that they are going to continue with custom and precedent, but we believe that should be enshrined in the law itself. This bill also allows for the minister to set standards for the creation of these universities and criteria that can be enforceable and, again, the department assures us that they will refer this body to an independent, arm's-length agency, the Advisory Board on Colleges and Universities. We believe that if they are going to stick to their word, it would be just as easy for them to introduce that and to enshrine it in the legislation itself.

We believe, Mr. Speaker, that this bill has to have some legislative oversight, that the creation of private universities has to provide for legislative oversight. It has to have an arm's-length agency. It's in accordance with the custom and precedence and it fits with the demands that have been made by people outside this House and people who spoke at the Law Amendments Committee.

I admit the amendment that we introduced, that the fines be increased from $25,000 to $250,000, enforcement is important, regulation is important. We've seen in British Columbia and Manitoba that the creation of degree granting institutions and the authorization of degree granting institutions under legislation very similar to this one has gone astray and gone awry. We will have to accept the minister's word for it when they say they do expect the Legislature to play a significant role and we do expect arm's-length agencies like the Advisory Board on Colleges and Universities and the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Council to have a role.

Because of these significant gaps in the legislation, I intend to vote against it. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 5. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 14. It is a pleasure to move third reading of this bill. This clarifies the long-standing issue around the soon-to-be Department of Economic Development, that in fact has always been a department. It also makes it clear that we have two fully important agencies, the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, and the Department of Agriculture.

Bill No. 14 - Public Service Act.

[Page 2579]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou East.

MR. CLARRIE MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I really want to go on record in relation to Bill No. 14. I think it is commendable that the departments have been divided, that they are entities of their own. As I stated earlier, it was ill-conceived that the two be put together back in the year 2000. I'm disappointed that it took six years to have this ill-conceived integration rectified.

I also realize that other MLAs have long been concerned about the two departments being put together, especially the member for Digby, and in recent times the member for Shelburne. But I'm particularly delighted that the government has listened to the charge that I initially led on Bill No. 14 in this House, that fisheries and aquaculture be the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, rather than the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

What I want to know now is, will the department have its own deputy minister? Presently the Deputy Minister of Agriculture is the CEO of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture. I say to this House, if the department does not have its own DM, there are a number of members on this side of the House who will be back at this government again.

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

[2:45 p.m.]

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, I too am glad to rise and speak on Bill No. 14 on the Department of Fisheries part. I'm glad the minister has reconsidered from downgrading this department to an office. I commend him on this. I questioned that two days ago in the House because industry is concerned, they're concerned what this could possibly do to Nova Scotia, where it's one of the best fishing provinces of this country.

I believe Nova Scotia deserves much better in its great fisheries than just an office. Maybe that could be looked at later on through the years and see what it all means. No one really knows what it means - I've had nobody who could explain to me what it means to take a department and turn it into an office.

With the fisheries as well as it is and as great as it is in this province, and can be and will be much greater if we all work together, which I'm sure we will. We can double or triple the income of $1 billion now to $3 billion, if we can all work together. That's not a guess, that's a fact that that can happen. I would love to have a hand in that. We certainly need a strong department to make that happen.

[Page 2580]

With that, I certainly agree on this, and I move third reading from (Interruptions) Well, I'd love to move third reading. Thank you.

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

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, just a few moments on the economic development part of this bill. I think I would be remiss if I didn't rise to my feet in my place to talk about the (Interruptions) Well, what I wanted to say - the honourable minister reminded me I would never be able to use the line again, and the line was referring to the Office of Economic Development instead of the Department of Economic Development.

Mr. Speaker, I could never figure out why the government changed it in the first place. It was something that I was completely surprised at, because the most important economic development tool the province had was the Department of Economic Development, and somebody over there, in their wisdom, decided to reduce it almost to nothing, cut the budget, slashed it for about three or four years, and then created another organization called NSBI. The confusing part of this whole situation now is we have two departments of government giving out money and talking to potential customers in this province.

I would think that along with this bill, which I'm definitely going to support, maybe on some future day the minister or the Premier will come back to this House and dissect the responsibilities of both NSBI and the Department of Economic Development. All too often we see where a business venture did not fit the so-called mold of NSBI, that the Department of Economic Development, previously the Office of Economic Development, would end up trying to accommodate that particular business. I think we have to have more firm rules in this House as to exactly who is going to deal with prospective people coming and doing business in this province. With that, I certainly will be supporting this bill.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, it matters little what some particular branch of government is called, it matters a great deal what it does. I want to focus my remarks, briefly, on what it is that has been going on, or not going on, in the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture. There are three things that I want to draw to the attention of the honourable members.

One is that, of course, fishery, which is so important to our economy, is largely administered legally by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Because the primary jurisdiction over oceans rests with the federal government, it doesn't leave a great deal of regulatory room for the province. What room it does leave is room to observe, make observations, do research and make criticisms of what it is that the federal

[Page 2581]

government itself does or fails to do. I have to say that we, unfortunately, hear precious little from our government or from the Office or Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture by way of criticism of the federal government's administration and management programs with respect to the offshore. This is an extremely important matter for the nation; it's, of course, vital for our province. I would hope that under any name, at some point we will begin to hear a great deal more from that department.

The second point is this. What we do have some administrative jurisdiction over are fish plants. I have to say that, again, we've heard precious little from that department and seen very little when it comes to effective action to protect the continued operation of fish plants in our province, which are so vital to the rural economy. I hope that under whatever name the department is, that the government decides it's going to take an active role in trying to promote something that has been a very important activity in our rural areas, and I look to them for more.

The third point has to do with this. We observed this week, when questions were raised with respect to an aquaculture operation, that responsibility for making a decision about an aquaculture operation rests with the same department - Fisheries and Aquaculture - that in fact sees as it's mandate the promotion of that sector. There should be a distinction made between the function of promotion of a sector and the function of making decisions of a regulatory sort of oversight that are akin to environmental assessment. So what I say is that this government should take a good hard look at removing that decision-making function from that department and moving it to an arm's-length department, moving it to the Department of Environment and Labour. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 14. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 61.

Bill No. 61 - Motor Vehicle Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 61.

[Page 2582]

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

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I didn't stand in the House with regard to this bill for a couple of minutes. This is a bill that deals with interlocks in this province, and the ability of this government to regulate the ability of people, who have been convicted of an offence under the Criminal Code for driving while impaired, to be able to reduce their penalty under the clause so that they can go to a voluntary program, which is use of an interlock on their vehicle.

Mr. Speaker, again, this bill was brought forward for political reasons - let's be clear - because of MADD Canada's report card that came out earlier this year giving this province a D+, the second-worst province in the country with regard to what it has not done with regard to drinking and driving in this province for the last seven years since they've been in power. This government had to quickly address an issue that should have been fixed last year but wasn't fixed, so they had to come back and fix it this year in the hope that they could actually get something passed, so maybe next year the report card would go up to a C-.

Mr. Speaker, I think the people of Nova Scotia deserve better than that. I think they deserve legislation that is thoughtful, that takes a look at everything that MADD Canada and other stakeholders have said. We don't see anything in here with regard to zero tolerance or a zero blood alcohol level for the first five years of a driver's licence. These are things that our Party is still eager to see. We hope we'll see them in the near future. It's unfortunate that government was so quick to rush and react to a MADD Canada report instead of taking time to think about it so that we as a province would have thoughtful legislation that addresses the concerns of those who are particularly interested in these issues and so that the people of our province are safer on our roads. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Annapolis.

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to stand and say a few words on Bill No. 61. All of our constituents in all of our communities have been impacted by impaired driving. Unfortunately, probably all of our family and intimate networks have been impacted by impaired driving. When this piece of legislation came through and when we begin to talk about the issue of impaired driving in this House, I don't think we should be moving towards weakening the laws around impaired driving.

I've struggled, quite frankly, as members of my own caucus know and the minister knows, with this particular bill. At the very best, I consider this bill to be neutral - at the very best. It has been a difficult one. I believe we are setting a precedence to set a law for the rich and law for those who are not so fortunate financially. This entitles a rich Nova Scotia, quite frankly, to reduce a 12-month sentence to a three-month sentence. Is that really what we should be doing around this issue? I don't believe so.

[Page 2583]

I'm taking the word of members of this House that this issue may come forward again, hopefully. It's one that I think we cannot back away from. Mr. Speaker, it's not that I am opposed to the interlock system, but I believe if a wealthy Nova Scotian, quite frankly, has the option to buy into reducing his or her suspension from 12 months to three months, then that interlock device needs to be on that vehicle much longer than the nine months that is there. I also believe that at any time during that suspension if they blow a failure on that, if that device reads a failure, then that suspension should start over again from that day.

Mr. Speaker, this issue is devastating to families across this province. We should be making sure that anything we do around the issue of impaired driving, the issue of driving under the influence of alcohol, that we deal with it with the severity that it should be dealt with.

Mr. Speaker, I'm going to support this legislation with some reservation, but I'm going to support it because MADD Canada, at best, is giving this a neutral grade. I want to caution this House, and I want to be on record as saying, that I have some grave reservations about this bill. We should not be creating a two-tier justice system in this province, one for the rich and one for those not so fortunate financially.

So with those few comments, Mr. Speaker, I will take my place and revisit this issue in the Spring.

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

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to make a couple of comments in regard to the bill before the House. I think that I, as well as some other members in this House who were former members of EHS, probably more so than anybody else in this House, can talk about the issues around the devastation from impaired driving. I've had to deliver messages to families as a result of things that have happened to their family members, as a result of those who have made a decision to drink and drive.

So, Mr. Speaker, for somebody to get up in the House and suggest that this is just the result of politics and we're just responding to a knee-jerk reaction to an issue before the House, I think that's irresponsible and it's wrong and it's not right for the House. (Interruption) Well, you know what? I gave the honourable member the opportunity to stand and speak and I'd ask him for the same respect. Mr. Speaker, I gave the honourable member the respect, would he please give me the same.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable Minister of Justice has the floor.

[Page 2584]

MR. SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I think the honourable member's tie might be a little tight. He might want to relax for a minute and just listen to some of the experiences I have had. (Applause)

So, Mr. Speaker, as the Attorney General and the Minister of Justice, as this House will know, a lot of this legislation falls under other departments. I made a commitment to work with MADD Canada, with the folks here in this province and the national organization, to try to do what we can to review the issues that are before not only this Legislature but other Legislatures, and in fact the federal government, to do what we can to support any initiatives we can to make it tougher on those who decide to drink and drive.

Mr. Speaker, in this last couple of weeks we've had police officers training to, in fact, take part and benefit from the result of the federal government's initiative to charge those who decide to take drugs while they drive. There are many initiatives undertaken right now in this province that the Department of Justice and this government deserve credit for. I can tell you that we, as a government, and I, as the Minister of Justice, will do everything to ensure that the right thing is done in this case. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No 21. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No.87.

Bill No. 87 - Consumer Protection Act.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I now move third reading of Bill No. 87, the Consumer Protection Act, which will probably be more commonly known as the "payday lender" Act.

[3:00 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

[Page 2585]

MR TREVOR ZINCK: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I stand here today and I'm going to have a few comments on this. I had an opportunity, over the last week, to speak with the now President of the CPLA. We shared some thoughts and I shared some concerns. An interesting note, one of his members - I brought the attention to the president, the situation with one of my constituents who happens to be a senior and I raised the issue of the fact that they do, indeed, cash government cheques. He was very surprised to know that one of his members in the CPLA was actually loaning or lending monies off government cheques. He informed me they weren't supposed to. This is one of the situations that we're dealing with.

I urge the minister and I urge all MLAs here, as this service increases in our province, to go out and talk to our constituents and the people who are actually using these. I was brought up and encouraged to develop a good relationship with our traditional financial lenders, the banks, the credit unions. These are the individual borrowing institutions which we should develop relationships with, but unfortunately everyday Nova Scotians, those individuals living paycheque to paycheque, are forced to use this ever-increasing service.

I don't think that we want to urge Nova Scotians to develop relationships with these individuals. I think, today, the minister has taken a positive step, but as these services are increasingly used by Nova Scotians, I think we should take a stronger stance. I would stand here today and say I would urge the minister not to even issue licences to these individual payday loan lenders. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading on Bill No. 87. Is the house ready for the question? Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 94.

Bill No. 94 - Property Valuation Services Corporation Act.

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

[Page 2586]

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, this is the bill which sets up the independent assessment agency. The legislation has been worked out between UNSM and government. I move third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading on Bill No. 94. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 95.

Bill No. 95 - Municipal Government Act.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 95, the Municipal Government Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading on Bill No. 95. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 113.

Bill No. 113 - Environment Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Environment and Labour.

HON. MARK PARENT: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 113.

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

[Page 2587]

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, briefly on this bill, this bill went from second reading. We had a couple of concerns about a couple of clauses and the Department of Environment and Labour was kind enough to work with us on them, addressing the issue of the five-year review that's going to be statutorily required. Originally that review was only going to look at the Act. Members of my caucus, both the Environment and Labour Critic, the member for Halifax Atlantic, and the member for Halifax Chebucto, noted that the Environment Act is such an Act that's built on regulation, that there was a need for the regulation to be reviewed as well. That is something that was agreed upon.

There was also a change with regard to orders being issued and having to ensure that timelines were in place on which those orders must be complied with. These are changes that we think have made this bill better and we're glad to support it at third reading. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading on Bill No. 113. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 114.

Bill No. 114 - Engineering Profession Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: On behalf of the minister, I would move third reading.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 114. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 2588]

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 115 and on behalf of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, I move third reading of Bill No. 115.

Bill No. 115 - Architects Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 115. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 119, and on behalf of the honourable Minister of Justice, I move third reading.

Bill No. 119 - Elections Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 119. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 92.

Bill No. 92 - Assessment Act.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, this bill will extend the cap on property assessments and I am pleased to move third reading.

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

[Page 2589]

MR. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise this afternoon to speak to this bill. I should comment first that I'm pleased that we're having an assessment cap and the way that it's tied to the consumer price index. We have always maintained that tying the cap to the CPI made good sense as we try to assist homeowners who are faced with skyrocketing property assessments. We also think that this is probably the best way of ensuring that there's some sort of measured control over skyrocketing property assessments for the good of the general public.

One of the flaws that I commented earlier on with the bill is that those property owners who are eligible under the cap have to jump through hoops and it's too bad that the cap wasn't automatic. By it being automatic, it would save taxpayers the bother and the trouble of having to apply for something that they're already eligible for. I would suspect that there are thousands and thousands of Nova Scotians who are actually missing out on the benefits from the cap simply because of a number of reasons. I know we have a large population of Nova Scotians who can't read or write, who are sometimes intimidated by the process itself.

The government knows at the time they issue assessments who's eligible and who's not eligible. It would only make some good sense that if you're eligible for it, well, why put barriers or roadblocks in front of someone who's eligible for something? I'm having a little difficulty as to why we create hoops that aren't necessary. So that's one of the concerns and, again, to tie it to the consumer price index is a good thing, but it could have been taken a lot further. Why should government stand in the way of eligible people who are Nova Scotians?

I'm not going to speak very, very long - another couple of seconds on this. I know that we are pleased - I would think that when I say we, the NDP - that basically this probably gave birth, this bill, from an NDP idea. The crunch of my message here is that this bill is a good bill. We had an opportunity to make this an excellent bill and it's unfortunate that we didn't do that. I just feel sorry for the thousands and thousands of Nova Scotians who are going to be missing out on a chance to benefit from a bill that was designed for them. Having said that, I'll take my seat.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.

MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I did want to take a very few minutes to speak about this bill. Of all the bills that are before the House in this sitting, it is probably this bill that will do the most for the people that I represent and I'd hazard to guess that is probably true for all the members in the House. To reduce the CAP from 10 per cent to the rate of inflation, which these days is running in the range of two to three per cent, means that quite literally, hundreds of thousands of Nova Scotia residential properties will fall under the CAP that do not today fall under the CAP. I'm very pleased to see the government agreeing to amend the bill in that way. I am very

[Page 2590]

puzzled at the government's refusal to agree to the other amendment proposed by the NDP, which is to make application of the CAP automatic.

In the Public Accounts Committee yesterday with property assessment officials, we learned that right now, today, there are over 100,000 residential properties that are eligible for the cap, but only 40,000 people have applied, and I do not believe that those other 60,000 people have decided that they want to pay higher taxes than they have to. The reasons, in my view, why those 60,000 people have not applied is because they are defeated by the paper-based application process. There are problems with literacy in Nova Scotia that we have to face, Mr. Speaker. There are many Nova Scotians who are not able to read or understand, fill out and return a complicated form to apply for a government program. There are problems with vision. I sat in the kitchen of a woman, an elderly 90-year-old widow, in the Armidale neighbourhood I represent and her difficulty was that she couldn't see the paper because of her vision. So my assistant and I helped her fill out the form and send it in and that person, my constituent is not alone in having that difficulty. But the basic problem is all the Nova Scotians who don't know about the program and don't understand it.

We have said from the very beginning that the application of this program should be automatic. The government's computers know exactly how many people qualify and yesterday, for the first time, we heard the only reason that has ever been offered why there even needs to be an application system in the first place, and that is to deal with the question of residency. The government does not want the CAP to apply to non-residents. The problem, Mr. Speaker, is that applies to a tiny handful of Nova Scotia residential property owners and in order to capture that problem, we have eliminated the possibility of qualifying for another 60,000 by introducing the form.

Today's bill, is going to expand the group of people who qualify for the CAP, probably by about 200,000. So at the same time, that 200,000 Nova Scotians are going to benefit from the assessment CAP, the government is leaving in place, the very thing that will prevent the majority of them from applying and getting the CAP. This is made all the more ironic by the fact that something else we learned in Public Accounts yesterday is that the reason for the application process is to weed out non-residents, but the government has no way of verifying the residency information that is supplied to it on those application forms. So the application doesn't solve the residency problem at all. The government simply has to take at face value what people tell them because they don't check it. It's almost unbelievable and yet that is the reason why 60,000 Nova Scotians don't qualify. There has to be a better way.

There is a statutory review of the program set for April 1, 2007. We learned yesterday that the review will be underway the first week of December. We urge the government, we plead with the government one more time that if Nova Scotians qualify for the program that it should be automatic. Don't force them to go through this application process, which we know from experience has already defeated or prevented

[Page 2591]

so many Nova Scotians from finally getting some relief from high property taxes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

[3:15 p.m.]

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

MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to say a few words on the passing of Bill No. 92 - or on our third reading. I think it is really, as was said by the previous speaker, probably the most significant change that we're making in this session for people in Nova Scotia, for homeowners, for people who live in condominiums, and so on. I think that it's a credit to the government that they worked together with Opposition Parties, I would say specifically with the Liberal Party, to work specifically to see some relief for many, many Nova Scotians. In fact, by lowering the rate to the consumer price index, this will extend to any market which has had fast increases in assessments and will, in fact, raise the number of eligible homeowners or households from the 108,000, where it's at today, to quite possibly 300,000 or 400,000, which we think is going to have a market effect on many, many people.

The fact is that people are very disturbed about their assessments because it has cost them a lot of money. When they get these increases, whether it's through the sort of early warning system the assessment office has, or later, when their actual assessment is finalized, it creates a great deal of angst, a lot of worry, especially for our fixed-income people, or our seniors. I know many of the members on the government side represent areas along the coastal parts of the province where some of the highest increases have been felt, and there's not a member, I think, in this Legislature, who has not had the calls from unhappy homeowners recognizing the pain, really, that this is going to cause them as the assessments rise, and as the homeowners see it, unjustified, in terms of how they've gone up, and, for what, because services do not change as your assessment rises.

I really believe this will create more accountability on the municipalities because it almost effectively freezes the assessments at the consumer price index increases. So people have a lot of stability and a lot of comfort in knowing what the assessment will be. Then they will wait and see what the tax rate is, which will be set by municipalities.

So I just think it takes out some of the volatility, which has been hurting Nova Scotians. I do applaud the government for looking at that and for doing their best to help Nova Scotians, as well, to deal with high assessments and the problems that are involved. In terms of making any changes to the fact that we have to apply with a paper trail, I think perhaps, through the review, that could be assessed. Yesterday, at the Public Accounts Committee, we did ask whether or not the department had any idea how many non-resident properties there are in the province, and that was a piece of information not available. So I think that if that were known, that it would help

[Page 2592]

government in making policy in deciding whether it is better to forego that amount and forego the need for the residency requirement through this paper trail. I think until you know how many non-resident properties we're talking about it's difficult to make that decision.

So I do appreciate the reason behind that and understand. I think the onus is on members of the Legislature, now, to do some very aggressive marketing of this program so people will know this is available because, clearly, the advertising and I think quite intense efforts of the assessment office have not been effective in getting more than not even 50 per cent of those eligible to apply. I think through our own constituencies and through our newsletters and our own ability to communicate that we should do our very best to see that Nova Scotians who need this most will, in fact, be applying and getting the protection they deserve. Again, I'd like to thank the government for working co-operatively with the Liberal Party in moving this forward. Thank you.

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

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, well you know, time flies when you're having fun. Let me tell you, and I'm not going to be long-winded - I know that my friend, the member for Glace Bay, would love to hear me go on at great length about assessment and non-resident ownership, but let me tell you, it was just a short time ago, as a newly-elected MLA, I stood between the member for Cape Breton Centre and the member for Yarmouth - at the time - and stood in this House and asked the Liberals on that side of the House about the issue about assessments and how seniors and coastal communities were being taxed off their land. At that time, a member who was the MLA for Cape Breton West in a previous life, in fact I believe I can actually use his name now since he is no longer a member of this House, he was the Minister of Environment and Labour, Russell MacKinnon, stood in his place. In fact he never stood in his place, he always leaned over (Interruptions)

If members opposite want to make comments, then they are welcome to - he leaned over and he always spoke to the ministers in front of him and kept waving his hands, it is not a problem, it is not a problem. Why does he keep going on about this? He's not a problem. And those two Cabinet Ministers, who were sitting there answering my questions, would listen to Mr. MacKinnon on this issue, and I can tell you, Mr. MacKinnon has said to me privately since, and I can tell you there are members opposite, too, who are saying, thank God the NDP kept bringing that issue up, week after week, issue after issue.

Now the Liberals certainly didn't understand it in their day and when the Conservatives arrived over there and we brought up the idea of a cap, when the idea of a cap was brought up, suddenly it was dismissed out of hand. It wasn't an idea that was worthy of any kind of support; the CAP, that'll never work. It took people like the Mayor of Lunenburg, Laurence Mawhinney, God bless Mr. Mawhinney, time after time he

[Page 2593]

came in front of the Law Amendments Committee. It took a community meeting in that community, at the fire hall in Lunenburg, organized incidentally by the NDP, the full fire hall to persuade the members of that caucus, who were the government at that time, that this cap idea would work.

So there are people in this House who deserve a lot of credit, the MLA for Halifax Fairview, the previous member for Dartmouth North who brought up that issue time after time, the member for Halifax Needham who continues to bring up the issue of gentrification and assessments in her community, the new member - he is not new any more - the member for Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank who has brought this up. That is testimony to the fact that if you keep bringing the issue up, eventually this government, when it runs out of every idea, will accept a good idea from the NDP.

Let me tell you, in the Law Amendments Committee, and I must tell you that in the Law Amendments Committee - I see the Minister of Immigration sitting over there - I was baffled, Mr. Speaker, by the questions from the Minister of Immigration (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order please, order. The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect has the floor.

MR. ESTABROOKS: Thank you. I want you to know, when we were in the Law Amendments Committee the other day and we were bringing forward these amendments, the Minister of Immigration was asking questions and she probably, as well as anybody in this House who has coastal communities, should be fully aware of the implications of non-residency. She should be fully aware of the problem of assessments, she should be fully aware about seniors in her community. I will tell you, it was obviously blatant that the minister of that particular department, and the Minister of Immigration did not understand the legislation. I can tell you that any time she needs a lesson on how thecap system or how assessments work in this province, I encourage her to come forward, to come to the NDP. We've understood this issue for years and we will explain it, not just to the people of Timberlea-Prospect, not just to the people of Halifax Needham, we'll explain it to the people of Lunenburg and Lunenburg West.

So, Mr. Speaker, I want you to know that CPI is an important change, it is a change that we have pushed for, for a long time and, after a while if you bring it up enough, eventually this government will say, yes, it is a good idea, let's try it on for size. They have done that so I compliment them on it.

I just want to highlight one other factor. My friend, the member for Halifax Fairview, brought up the issue of the fact that there are over 100,000 people in this province eligible, 40,000 are involved in the process and that's another issue. But do you know what? We keep hammering away, we keep bringing forward the idea, whether it is the CPI index or whether it is this particular idea of automatically being involved in

[Page 2594]

the process, after a while if we say it enough, if we make them listen enough, eventually they will understand and say that's a good suggestion and we'll take it and we'll make it our own.

We don't have a patent on the good ideas, but let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, let me tell you, and I want to be clear on this, whether it's the Third Party, when they were sitting there, or whether it's the government Party that's sitting there now, it takes all three Parties to make legislation work, and this is an example of one that is working.

It's better, it's not perfect, but we'll be back with suggestions another time, and I hope you're still listening.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, it's with great pleasure I rise to speak on this bill. I think this is probably the most progressive legislation that's been in this Legislature in the last 10 years.

I'm going to give you a few examples of how this is going to impact people in my community and every community in this province. Let me start by indicating that when I was on regional council, the total budget of regional council was just under $500 million. During that time the tax rate was actually reduced a few times because of the assessment lift, and since I left regional council some three years ago - well, less than three years ago - we had a briefing by the regional council CAO last year and it was indicated that the tax revenue had gone up from less than $500 million to $600 million with no tax increase in rates.

In other words, the regional municipality gained over $100 million in revenue from the assessment lift alone, and they only took half the assessment lift. Therefore, there was a tremendous number of people whose taxes have gone up astronomically - not just in the coastal areas, right across the board.

I can give you an example. A friend of mine has a nice property and her assessment went up from $200,000, in the following year it went up $40,000 more, the next year $40,000 more and, the year after that, $40,000 and, the next year, $50,000. That tax increase - they were a retired couple - almost forced them to sell their home. That's exactly what's been going on, and it's getting worse and worse and worse.

I want to commend the government for working with us and our Party to make sure this change was put in the bill, and I really appreciate the efforts of the minister to do that, and our caucus members and the caucus of the Progressive Conservative Party to do this, to recognize a need for this change in the taxation.

[Page 2595]

Now, it's squarely put on the council of each regional area, if they want to get more money for revenue with a small increase in assessment, they now have to put the tax rate and justify that tax rate to the residents. That's the way taxation should be - just the same as the government has to justify to the people of Nova Scotia any tax rate increase they do.

I think it's a very positive bill. It's going to have a long-term effect on people, especially, initially, people with fixed incomes, whether they be retired or low-income people. In the long term it's going to have an effect on all Nova Scotians. It's going to be a positive effect - it will be an effect that means that people have more money to do the things they have to do rather than paying too many taxes.

I can't stress enough how important this bill is. I would just encourage the government to proclaim this bill as quickly as possible. I was very disappointed they had to bring forward the amendment today that brought it out another year, because that again allows the assessments to rise too quickly, and indeed it's going to cause grief for people long term.

People have to remember, these are huge assessment increases. They add up on each other - you can go from a $1,000 tax bill to a $5,000 tax bill and you never go down to the $1,000 again. It's serious stuff. I have friends in my area - and my own tax bill has gone up, it doubled in the last few years, so I can imagine how people have struggled to pay these tax bills.

[3:30 p.m.]

Again, I think it's positive legislation, I think it's something we should have done a long time ago and I'm pleased to see it's finally happened and for the betterment of all Nova Scotians. Thank you.

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

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I would like to take just a few minutes to speak to this bill. First of all, I would like to congratulate the Premier and the members of my caucus, in particular the members for Lunenburg West and Chester-St. Margaret's who have been strong advocates for this measure for many, many years.

I also want to take a moment to say that I perhaps represent the constituency in Nova Scotia that has the highest percentage of people who will benefit by this bill. We have a very significant number of our citizens who also have neighbours who own property who are not residents of Nova Scotia. I can tell you those people will fully support the decision of this House to provide protection to assessment.

[3:30 p.m.]

[Page 2596]

But, Mr. Speaker, those same people would not support a provision, the effect of which would extend the benefit to people who, in many cases, don't reside there for more than a couple of weeks in a year. (Applause) And, no one can tell who is resident of Nova Scotia unless you apply and indicate your address. Buying a PO box in Nova Scotia, having a mailbox out by a road doesn't make you a Nova Scotian. That's the fallacy - no one can tell unless you apply, who you are. Are you a resident of Nova Scotia, someone entitled to a tax break, or are you a non-resident who is entitled to pay the fair taxes on that assessment?

Mr. Speaker, I remember working with the member for Timberlea-Prospect, and the member for Timberlea-Prospect and I had reservations at the time about the fact that the bill was capped. I know that he is pleased today; I am pleased today. I would like to extend my thanks to the members of the Liberal Party who are obviously in support of the cap. This is a good bill for Nova Scotians, but particularly it's a fair bill. It allows Nova Scotians to benefit and at the same time not extend it to non-residents.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 92. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

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

PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 28.

Bill No. 28 - New Minas Water Commission Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 28.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 28. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

[Page 2597]

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 29.

Bill No. 29 - Temple Sons of Israel, Sydney Act.

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

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 29.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 29. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 41.

Bill No. 41 - Kingston Food Bank Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I'm certainly pleased to move third reading of Bill No. 41.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 41. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 2598]

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 85.

Bill No. 85 - Board of Trustees of the Nova Scotia Freemasons' Home.

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

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 85.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 85. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 72

Bill No. 72 - Halifax Regional Water Commission Act..

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health Promotion and Protection.

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 72.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 72. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 88.

Bill No. 88 - Richmond Stora Enso Taxation Act.

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

[Page 2599]

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 88 now be read a third time. Members of this Legislature will know that this bill has been brought forward as a result of a deal that was reached between the Municipality of Richmond and Stora Enso as part of its survival plan.

Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity again to thank Warden John Boudreau, all the councillors and staff who have worked so hard in bringing this deal together, and also the staff and management over at Stora Enso who as well, worked together in bringing this deal together. This deal protects the taxpayers of Richmond County, while at the same time providing some relief to Stora Enso as part of its survival plan.

Mr. Speaker, I know that Warden John Boudreau was here along with the clerk, Louis Digout, during the Private and Local Bills Committee in case there were any questions or concerns. Fortunately, there weren't any, but I certainly commend them for having followed the passage of this bill and I also want to commend my colleagues on all sides of the House for the unanimous support of this legislation. I can advise the House that Stora Enso has its supercalendar mill back up in operation and it's my understanding that the newsprint mill is either in operation now or will be very shortly, which is a relief to the elected members from the Strait area and I'm sure to the entire Province of Nova Scotia to see Stora Enso back in operation and in full swing at their facility.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I would close my comments and close debate on third reading of Bill No. 88.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 88. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Yes, Mr. Speaker, I would like to continue with the order of business, Private Members' Public Bills for Third Reading. Would you please call Bill No. 80.

Bill No. 80 - Canadian Forces Reservists Civilian Employment Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

[Page 2600]

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure indeed to rise to speak on this bill. As I understand it, this Legislature is about to pass a piece of legislation which will be the first of its kind in this country. I think that it demonstrates very clearly what I think the intent of the government was when they created the Department of Military Relations and appointed a minister there. It was this kind of thoughtful consideration of ways that we could actually support those people who decide to serve in our Armed Forces, whether they are the regular forces or whether they are the reserves. This particular bill is, of course, with respect to the reserves.

Mr. Speaker, it was my pleasure to bring this bill forward, but I would like to recognize that a bill that we bring forward on this side of the House will not go any further than this side of the House unless the minister responsible is prepared to review the bill, to have a look at it to consider its merits, and I believe to have the wisdom to bring it forward. So I would like to extend my thanks to the minister responsible for this ministry, for agreeing to move it forward. There were amendments made, I think they were worthwhile amendments, and I think all of the conversation that took place around it and all of the debate that took place was worthwhile.

I would also like to thank the member for Cape Breton South who was the Liberal Critic for this department. After all, he plays an important role in the government, so I wanted to make sure he got his just due with this. The reality, though, Mr. Speaker, is that the member has reserve experience, he encouraged me on this bill throughout, agreed to support it, and I believe is going to support it now as we go forward. So I want to thank him, as well, and I thank all members of the House for what I think is a constructive process in this regard. Thank you.

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

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm rising in support of the bill. I want to thank the Leader of the Opposition for bringing this bill forward. I also want to thank the Justice Minister, who is responsible for military affairs for the new responsibility that was set up that he's attached to.

I stand in my place here as a proud member, former member, retired member, of the Canadian Forces reserve and formerly the RCN before that. I'm pleased to note, and I did so at second reading, that a number of reservists out there would like to serve their country more often than they can now because of responsibilities and restrictions with some employers. I was sort of subject to that myself when I worked in Social Services. I could only go for limited periods of time with the naval reserve, mostly in summer training, but I did last it out for 15 years. I sort of wish I had more time at sea and less time in the office, but that wasn't to be the case.

For those who think that was recent, it wasn't recent, it was back in the 1960s and early 1970s, so that will give you an indication, Mr. Speaker, how long I've been

[Page 2601]

waiting for something like this to happen. So I congratulate the Leader of the Opposition, and we certainly will be supporting the bill. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister responsible for Military Relations.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is an honour and a privilege to rise to share a few comments with regard to Bill No. 80, an Act to Protect Civilian Employment of Members of the Canadian Forces Reserves.

Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by commending the Leader of the Opposition. This is absolutely one of the best things I've seen in a long time in this House, a bill that is really well-deserved, something that I know when this bill started out I did mention outside this House that those who were involved in the defence forum - and I want to give them full credit at this point, as well. They have been working very hard over the last year in regard to issues that this province may do to enhance our relationship with the Canadian Forces, and they talked about the possibility of doing several things, one of which is the bill before the House. So I want to give them credit, as well, because they were the ones who came to me and said that it's a great bill, it's something we should support, there are some changes we would like to see, we have to support those who are students in our universities, community colleges or private and public schools, or else it may get overlooked.

I also want to thank the member for Cape Breton South who, on many occasions, we discussed support for the military, and certainly with his background, he passionately speaks about those who are in the Forces.

Mr. Speaker, it deserves to be mentioned that as we speak right now, we have reservists in this province who are going to face conflict in other parts of the world. In fact, some from Greenwood have been and will be going in the next few weeks and, in February, I think around 200 more, to bring us to a total of 400 over the next three months. The House should know that out of those 200 going in February, I think it's fair to say that the biggest percentage of those are from the Cape Breton area. We should all be continually mindful of what these men and women are doing for us, as a province, and Canadians while we are debating in this House. (Applause)

[3:45 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to say that as a government and as the Minister responsible for Military Relations, as was mentioned earlier, that I wholeheartedly support this bill and look forward to its passage. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Environment and Labour.

[Page 2602]

HON. MARK PARENT : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Very, very briefly, I want to add my support for it too, and thank my staff who worked hard, along with the opposite members, to make sure this bill is the very best one that's possible. To comment once again, have it on the record, that Aldershot base in Kentville, Nova Scotia, is the largest centre for the training of reservists in Atlantic Canada, and the best.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I too would like to just say how positive this NDP bill is. I'm in an area where there are 2,000 military personnel at Greenwood, and close proximity to Aldershot, a tremendous number of students and young people. Those who get out of the military will go into the reserves, but also try to keep a job. So this is a very, very positive development for them and I've had a number of e-mails and comments on the constructive work that is going on in the House. So with that, I take my place.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 80. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried. (Applause)

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 27.

Bill No. 27 - Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Shelburne.

MR. STERLING BELLIVEAU: Mr. Speaker, it is with great honour and privilege that I stand here and move third reading of this particular bill, Bill No. 27, the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act, and allow me just a few comments. I think that this bill shows a clear signal to coastal communities across Nova Scotia that this is going to have a positive outcome on these particular communities.

I want to emphasize one word - independence - maintaining the independence of these coastal communities across Nova Scotia. I sense, Mr. Speaker, that the bills that we've talked about, our coastal communities, particularly the fisheries in the last few weeks here, concerning the fisheries, the tide is turning and the fisheries are going to be a priority.

[Page 2603]

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

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, I commend anything that comes through this House that's good for the fishery of this province. I also would like to bring up that this bill is similar to a bill that was amended in this House last summer, Bill No. 257, which was presented by this government last Spring, and amendments were made to that to accept licences as collateral in the fishing industry. I would just like to say that I had a hand in doing that and I would like to have that on record. This bill here is similar to what that bill is, but there could be a few words in these bills that aren't the same. I believe maybe that could be changed to make them similar, but I want to get on record that I did put amendments in the bill last Spring in this House, last summer. (Applause)

With that, I will take my seat. If this bill can be somehow put together with the bill that was amended, I think it would probably be the proper thing, I'm not sure. But I'm only sure of one thing, I'm sure that this is going to be good for the younger generation coming on in our fishery, both bills, if both are needed, and I look forward to this bill passing and making it law that the loan board does accept this.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 27. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 30.

Bill No. 30 - Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure to rise to move third reading of Bill No. 30. Bill No. 30 is meant to provide a more transparent means for ministers who may find themselves from time to time either in a real conflict of interest or in a perceived conflict of interest. This mirrors legislation that's found in other provinces, which provides a step-by-step process of what ministers are expected to do, in a case where there may be either, as I said, a real conflict of interest or a perceived one.

The purpose of this is to provide more transparency for Nova Scotians, to give them a renewed sense of confidence that any time where ministers may find themselves

[Page 2604]

in a conflict that there is a clear process that is going to be followed to make sure that Nova Scotians interests are always protected under this new legislation.

So I do commend the government for bringing this forward. This is strengthening of the Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act, which had been previously brought in place by the former Premier and the former government, therefore, Mr. Speaker, I want to commend all members for their support on this legislation and I believe Nova Scotians will have been served well by strengthening this Act here today, and with that, I would close debate on Bill No. 30.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 30. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 68.

Bill No. 68 - Pension Benefits Act.

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

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to move third reading of Bill No. 68. Bill No. 68 is meant to assist Nova Scotians who find themselves in situations of significant financial hardship, who have locked in investments that we are now establishing a more specific criteria for the administrator of pension benefits here in the province, to be able to use, in such cases.

I believe that the regulations that will come forward as a result of this legislation will be very specific in that the concerns that this may open flood gates, will not be the actual case. This will be very limited, but it certainly is legislation that has been brought to our attention by average Nova Scotians who have lamented the current rules which are in place. Mr. Speaker, I do look forward to the final regulations that will be brought on this legislation, before they're implemented, to make sure that it properly achieves the spirit of the legislation. With that, I would close debate on Bill No. 68.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I won't be speaking as long on this Bill No. 68 as I have on a previous bill No. 68. As I said on behalf of the

[Page 2605]

NDP caucus at second reading, we have significant concerns about the implications of this bill. We certainly share, with the members of the Liberal caucus, the sentiment of the difficulties that people confront from time to time when they experience grave financial crisis. Maybe because they have an extraordinary health need. Maybe because there has been a prolonged period of unemployment and difficulty with household income. A variety of situations may occur, to place households and families and individuals in great financial stress and hardship.

Having available to them pension funds - pension savings that have been vested and set aside for retirement - becomes a very attractive alternative, but it is the position of members of the NDP caucus that the way to better deal with these situations is to strengthen the social safety net in the country. The EI system has been devastated for many people and is not available to even 50 per cent of the people who are in the workforce today. The same is true around catastrophic drugs and the lack of a catastrophic drug plan and on and on.

The problem that this bills seeks to address would be better, I think, focused in other areas, areas that would strengthen the social safety net. In fact, I think our concern is that this bill erodes some of the very important protections that are in the legislation to encourage people to have pension savings vested for their retirement years.

Mr. Speaker, members of the NDP caucus will not be voting in support of this bill. The reasons I have given are why we have made that decision.

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

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I rise to close debate on Bill No. 68. I must say, once again, I'm extremely disappointed to hear the comments made by the member for Halifax Needham, and the fact that the NDP will be voting against this. This legislation has been brought forward based on the request and the pleas that were made to our members and to myself on behalf of our constituents. We have been sent here to represent the people of Nova Scotia, and I do believe we have a duty as the elected representatives to also have faith in the people we represent.

In this case, I believe most Nova Scotians are responsible and reasonable people. In this case, I don't expect they will be rushing out to try to diminish their savings. In fact, I believe the comments are a bit of ignorance as to what the true intention is meant to be here with this legislation and the very specific regulations that will be put in place. Meeting the definition of significant financial hardship will not be an easy one. I've already given examples of where this will be used. I believe this is a step forward. As I mentioned before, as legislators, it is our duty to address the concerns raised to us by Nova Scotians and, more importantly, I know that our caucus and the government continues to have faith in Nova Scotians, that they will continue to be responsible in their decisions. With that, I move third reading of Bill No. 68.

[Page 2606]

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 68. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 69.

Bill No. 69 - Maintenance Enforcement Act.

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

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I would move third reading of Bill No. 69.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 69. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 70.

Bill No. 70 - Provincial Fish Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 70.

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

The motion is carried.

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

[Page 2607]

The honourable Government House Leader.

[4:00 p.m.]

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 78.

Bill No. 78 - Order of Nova Scotia Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Clare.

MR. WAYNE GAUDET: Mr. Speaker, Bill No. 78 will now recognize our youth between the ages of 16 and 25 to receive the Order of Nova Scotia. I would like to thank my colleagues from all sides of the House for their support on this bill. As speakers indicated on second reading, I've said time and time again that many of our young Nova Scotians do tremendous work in our communities throughout Nova Scotia, and should be given proper recognition by our province. With those few comments, I move third reading of Bill No. 78.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 78. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 83.

Bill No. 83 - Labour Standards Code.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I would like to move third reading of Bill No. 83.

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

MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Thank you. For the record, this is a bill that came before the House with regard to legislating lunch breaks in this province. It's a novel concept, but I'm glad to see that our province is finally recognized the need for lunch breaks for workers.

[Page 2608]

As part of that, though, there were some amendments made at the Law Amendments Committee with regard to restaurant workers. There were amendments made at Committee of the Whole House that for the record, at third reading, I just want to make sure there is some record of what exactly transpired. The amendment now ensures, like it is in most parts of the country, that people between the ages of 14 and 16 may work in a restaurant, but only as wait staff, only as servers, not involved in kitchen or in operating cooking equipment. That was something that I know the Department of Labour had a concern with, our caucus, the Liberal caucus and I know the Progressive Conservatives supported it as well.

I think that ensures a level of protection that reflects the national standard. I'm glad we're able to do that and ensure that this bill can move forward. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading on Bill No. 83. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 86.

Bill No. 86 - Motor Vehicle Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, it's with great pleasure I'm going to move the reading of Bill No. 86, the Motor Vehicle Act, which will provide protection to young people and older people alike, causing the necessity to wear helmets and helping many families from experiencing a trauma of having a head injury by one of their family members.

Also, I think it would be a substantial saving to our health care system, but more importantly that people don't get injured. It makes Nova Scotia a safer place to live and I would like to thank all Parties for their support on this and all the organizations that worked very hard to make this happen. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading on Bill No. 86. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

[Page 2609]

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I believe - and I want to look at my colleagues, the House leaders, but I believe that completes the bills for third reading for today.

I want to indicate to the House that we're going to need a period of recess to allow Her Honour, the Lieutenant Governor, to attend. I believe the Minister of Justice has a point of order to raise.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, about two weeks ago in this House, the honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage brought a question before this House that needs some clarification as well. I believe it brought into question my credibility and integrity, but as well, it brought into question the protected relationship between the Attorney General and the Public Prosecution Service of this province.

For those who would know the Public Prosecution Service Act - I would assume the honourable member would - it very clearly states out the relationship and the rights that the Attorney General of this province is entitled to with regard to that relationship and the ability to access cases that are before the courts. In fact, the absolute responsibility of the Attorney General - the dialogue with the Director of the Public Prosecution Service.

The reason I'm standing today in the closing hours of the House, earlier today we made the decision that we're going to try to determine why people, especially our young people, I would hope - they are not interested in taking part in the political process in this province. It's something we should all give serious consideration to.

I think when a person's integrity and credibility is brought into question, it's one issue, but as well, when a question that this House has decided upon is brought into question as well, it needs to be clarified.

Mr. Speaker, with your indulgence, I would just like to read a document that was provided to me, that came from the NDP caucus office. I would like to read a couple of statements that are in this document. In fact, it just clearly shows how people will say one thing at one point and change their minds at a different point in time.

Mr. Speaker, one line of this document that I'm going to table here in a moment - it says, NDP Presents Submission To Kaufman Review Of The Public Prosecution

[Page 2610]

Service. It says, "the NDP recommends that the Public Prosecution Act be amended so that the minister is required to issue directives requested by the Director of Public Prosecutions, and that the minister has access to advice on criminal justice policy in order to make the most informed decisions."

And, Mr. Speaker, I'm going to quote, "'The current structure of the Public Prosecution Service is generally satisfactory, but in recent years the balance has tipped too far in favour of independence at the expense of accountability. As a result, some decisions have to be made that the general public don't accept as the right thing to do', said the MLA for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage."

Mr. Speaker, that clearly outlines, when you talk about bringing issues before this House for political reasons - there it is. Let him answer for it. That came from the NDP caucus office. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER: I will take the matter under advisement.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I would move that the House recess until - and I'm going to check with the Clerk - 5:30 p.m., and that, of course, there would be late debate immediately (Interruptions) 5:30 p.m. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is that the House recess until 5:30 p.m.

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

The motion is carried.

The House shall recess until 5:30 p.m.

[4:07 p.m. The House recessed.]

[5:34 p.m. The House reconvened.]

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

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

All rise.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[Page 2611]

[The Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Mayann Francis, preceded by her escort, and by Mr. Ken Greenham, Sergeant-at-Arms, bearing the Mace, entered the House of Assembly Chamber. The Lieutenant Governor then took her seat on the Throne.]

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

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

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

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

THE CLERK:

Bill No. 5 - Degree Granting Act.

Bill No. 7 - Registered Nurses Act.

Bill No. 9 - Municipal Government Act.

Bill No. 11 - Licensed Practical Nurses Act.

Bill No. 12 - Education Act.

Bill No. 14 - Public Service Act.

Bill No. 15 - Municipal Government Act.

Bill No. 17 - Criminal Notoriety Act.

Bill No. 20 - Public Utilities Act.

Bill No. 21 - Justice Administration Amendment (2006) Act.

Bill No. 22 - Motor Vehicle Act.

[Page 2612]

Bill No. 23 - Wills Act.

Bill No. 27 - Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act.

Bill No. 28 - New Minas Water Commission Act.

Bill No. 29 - An Act to Incorporate the Temple Sons of Israel, Sydney.

Bill No. 30 - Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act.

Bill No. 41 - Kingston Food Bank Act.

Bill No. 58 - Justice Administration Amendment (Fall 2006) Act.

Bill No. 61 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 62 - Tobacco Access Act.

Bill No. 67 - Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act.

Bill No. 68 - Pension Benefits Act.

Bill No. 69 - Maintenance Enforcement Act.

Bill No. 70 - Provincial Fish Act.

Bill No. 72 - Halifax Regional Water Commission Act.

Bill No. 75 - Securities Act.

Bill No. 78 - Order of Nova Scotia Act.

Bill No. 80 - Canadian Forces Reservists Civilian Employment Act.

Bill No. 83 - Labour Standards Code.

Bill No. 84 - Wind Turbine Facilities Municipal Taxation Act.

Bill No. 85 - Board of Trustees of the Nova Scotia Freemasons' Home.

Bill No. 86 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 87 - Consumer Protection Act.

[Page 2613]

Bill No. 88 - Richmond Stora Enso Taxation Act.

Bill No. 89 - Provincial Court Act.

Bill No. 91 - Trade Union Act.

Bill No. 92 - Assessment Act.

Bill No. 94 - Property Valuation Services Corporation Act.

Bill No. 95 - Municipal Government Act.

Bill No. 107 - Midwifery Act.

Bill No. 113 - Environment Act.

Bill No. 114 - Engineering Profession Act.

Bill No. 115 - Architects Act.

Bill No. 119 - Elections Act.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR:

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

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[The Lieutenant Governor left the Chamber.]

[5:45 p.m.]

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

[The Speaker took the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER: Please be seated.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I realize it's not typical for the Leader of the Liberal Party to be recognized at such stages, but I'm not sure if any time that we're in a minority government is a typical time.

[Page 2614]

Mr. Speaker, it's an unwritten rule that members don't usually share what takes place or the words that are said at the Speaker's Dinner, where members have a chance to meet together outside of the view of the press and where we have a chance to speak individually. As I mentioned then, and I want to mention again now - as you know, all of us here in this House and Nova Scotians have known illness in their families. They've known the challenges of fighting illness, of fighting diseases and the difficulty that it brings, not only to the individuals who suffer from it, but to their families and how challenging it can be and how treatments can affect people in different ways.

Mr. Speaker, you know in the operation of this House, while your role as Speaker is essential, it's also essential that the House Leaders of each Party - who help government legislation and help direct as to how the House is going to go - the one role that is certainly essential in all of this is the role of the Government House Leader. I can tell you that as I mentioned before, the former Government House Leader, the honourable Ron Russell, was often recognized in this House and by Nova Scotians, and certainly by all members here, as almost an iron horse in his abilities to - even regardless of his age, with his experience and his abilities, he impressed so many of us in how he was able to conduct the business of this House and many of us wondered how that would work for the government after his departure from this House.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of our caucus, and I'm sure on behalf of all the members of this House, I want to take the opportunity to recognize the Government House Leader, the Minister of Finance, who I believe during this session of the House (Standing Ovation)

I can say, all of our admiration is with the Government House Leader - not only with him, but with his wife and his two sons. While Nova Scotians who have been watching the proceedings of this House see what happens on the floor of this Legislature, they unfortunately do not see much of the work that takes place behind the scenes - sometimes late at night - and the hard work that takes place. And at the end of the day, as I mentioned, the work of this Assembly is often dependent on the work and the co-operation and the leadership shown by the Government House Leader.

So on behalf of all of us, allow me to say to the Government House Leader, and to his family, that we do wish you good health and strong determination and that we've all been impressed and inspired by what you have shown to us during this session. The progress and the achievements made on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia during this session are in no small way because of the leadership shown by the Government House Leader. On behalf of all of us, we wish you very well in the days, months and years ahead. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Now I would ask the members to please rise and join me in the singing of our national anthem.

[Page 2615]

[The national anthem was sung by the members.]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. Please be seated.

The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'll just take a very brief moment before finishing up to, first of all, echo the comments of the Leader of the Liberal Party. I think it was well said. Certainly, I'm very proud of the work done by our House Leader, and I know all members are. We certainly appreciate the comments and appreciation by all members of the House of Assembly. (Applause)

That said, I suppose we could pass the budget for the Spring right now. We have that loving atmosphere, Mr. Speaker. I'm feeling it. We could ease his pressure over the next number of months. (Interruptions)

Mr. Speaker, I do want to say it is always a pleasure being in the House of Assembly, with all members of the House of Assembly. I was talking the other day, in fact speaking to the Deputy Premier about this, and I don't for sure recall who exactly had the quote, but I've certainly heard John Hamm state it in different meetings we would be at, I think it may have been Senator Forrestal. He remarked that, first of all, your province comes first, next your constituency, and then your Party. I think the co-operation we've seen during this sitting of the House and the last number of years has been because we've been able to put number two and number three behind number one, and that's the province, the Province of Nova Scotia, the best province in the country - the best province. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I know it is early, we're not yet in December, but I do want to wish all members the very best of seasons greetings and a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope everyone takes the time to have some rest and relaxation away from the job and away from the office, and to take that opportunity with your family. With that, I thank you, as well, for another fine job this sitting of the House. (Applause)

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

MR. SPEAKER: 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 5:55 p.m.]

[Page 2616]

[Page 2617]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 1263

By: Hon. Brooke Taylor (Agriculture)

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

Whereas the Atlantic Province's Trucking Association recently held their annual banquet and meeting in late October; and

Whereas the Atlantic Province's Trucking Association assists the 7,160 truckers who make a living driving a truck here in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Atlantic Province's Trucking Association promotes trucking safety, professionalism and innovation in the trucking industry;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly compliment the Atlantic Province's Trucking Association for their ongoing work and assistance with the trucking industry.

RESOLUTION NO. 1264

By: Hon. Michael Baker (Finance)

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

Whereas Kyle Hiltz has provided excellent service as the Town Clerk and Treasurer to the residents of Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, and the staff and councillors of the town over the years; and

Whereas Kyle performed the duties of the Town Clerk and Treasurer for the Town of Mahone Bay for 24 years; and

Whereas Kyle retired from his position as Town Clerk and Treasurer for the Town of Mahone Bay in September, 2006;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Kyle Hiltz for the exceptional service he has provided to the Town of Mahone Bay as the Town Clerk and Treasurer.

RESOLUTION NO. 1265

[Page 2618]

By: Hon. Michael Baker (Finance)

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

Whereas Captain Dan Moreland has been at the helm of the Picton Castle for each of its four trips around the world in the past nine years; and

Whereas the Picton Castle has provided training to over 700 adult and youth sailors on its many around-the-world voyages; and

Whereas the American Sail Training Association has awarded the Picton Castle and her operators the 2006 Sail Training Program of the Year Award, in recognition of her significant contribution to the development of seamanship, navigation skills, teamwork and leadership skills;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Captain Dan Moreland and the Picton Castle on receiving the 2006 Sail Training Program of the Year Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 1266

By: Mr. Patrick Dunn (Pictou Centre)

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

Whereas long-time Nova Scotia Community College School of Fisheries instructor Allen Tobin recently retired after 30 years of teaching; and

Whereas Mr. Tobin, who also served as academic chair for the department, announced his retirement alongside the 60th Anniversary of the NSCC's School of Fisheries; and

Whereas Mr. Tobin, always a popular instructor at the school, contributed largely to the provincial and national reputation that the school earned, and he was able to foster co-operation between academia, the fishing industry and governments and marked his departure saying "there's nothing . . . like standing in front of a classroom helping people".

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their best wishes and humble thanks to Mr. Allen Tobin on his recent retirement - Nova Scotian students have

[Page 2619]

had the benefit of Mr. Tobin's guidance for these last 30 years, reminding us all just how many special and important educators are hard at work in this province every day.

RESOLUTION NO. 1267

By: Mr. Patrick Dunn (Pictou Centre)

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

Whereas Pictou County author and Provincial Court Judge, Clyde MacDonald, recently launched his latest book at the Glasgow Square amphitheatre; and

Whereas Judge MacDonald's latest book, Murder Cases in Pictou County 1811-1950, explores sensational murder stories from the county's archives; and

Whereas nearly 300 copies of the book were sold with all proceeds going back to the Pictou County Roots Society, Judge MacDonald has already written several books on the county's heritage and some of its luminaries and has always ensured that the Society benefit from the book sales;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Judge MacDonald and the Pictou County Roots Society on the latest publication - Judge MacDonald is an example of the various kinds of work a person can do for their community, preserving the history of a place is an immeasurable contribution and will continue to be of use for generations to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 1268

By: Mr. Patrick Dunn (Pictou Centre)

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

Whereas the New Glasgow Riverfront Jubilee Committee recently achieved a first as it set a new attendance record for the 11th annual music festival; and

Whereas this year the four-day event attracted over 25,000 spectators to Glasgow Square who passed through the gates eagerly awaiting the performances of local and national acts; and

Whereas the festival volunteers are the foundation of its success who spend a year planning and organizing the musical weekend - the workforce is made up entirely

[Page 2620]

of members of the community who work hard to make the weekend memorable for everyone;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the hard-working volunteers of the Riverfront Jubilee Committee - such hard work by the nine member board goes towards ensuring a successful 2007 season and is indicative of the kind of talent that Nova Scotian communities can boast.

RESOLUTION NO. 1269

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (West Hants)

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

Whereas Barb Campbell has retired after 31 years of faithful and dedicated service at the King's Meadows Residence Society on Chester Road near Windsor; and

Whereas Barb was an excellent resource person and a tremendous help at the 15-room residence, home to 10 mentally challenged adults who are supervised by a team of residential counsellors; and

Whereas the King's Meadows home near Windsor is situated on nine acres of land which belonged to former Nova Scotia Lieutenant Governor, the late Dr. H.W. Kendall's estate;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the 31 years of exceptional work put forth by Barb Campbell at King's Meadows and for her contribution to the community and the lives of residents and family members alike.

RESOLUTION NO. 1270

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the historic Clockmaker Inn, located in Windsor, is once again a bed and breakfast and has reopened its doors to the public; and

Whereas the home was built by a shipbuilder 112 years ago, in 1844; and

Whereas new owners Rick and Deborah Dunham, along with their daughter Sarah Dunham and her fiancé Sean Arthur, have undertaken extensive renovations

[Page 2621]

totalling more than $1 million, since purchasing the Inn in February 2005, while at the same time preserving the Victorian elegance and history of the home;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate and also be inspired by the Dunham family, as they preserve and share a piece of Windsor history with the community and all world travellers.

RESOLUTION NO. 1271

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Brandon Benedict, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Benedict of Avondale, is one of two Nova Scotians named to represent Canada at the Winter Universiade in Turin, Italy, January 17 to 27, 2007; and

Whereas Brandon, as of November 18, led the Acadia University Men's Hockey Team in scoring with five goals and 14 assists for 19 points, and is the youngest in a family of five boys who all played hockey growing up; and

Whereas Brandon previously was a top scorer with the Halifax Major Junior "A" Mooseheads and also a member of Nova Scotia's 1999 Canada Games Hockey Team;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend our sincerest best wishes to Brandon Benedict, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dale Benedict of Avondale, as he plays for Canada at Winter Universiade in early January.

RESOLUTION NO. 1272

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Linzee MacKenzie has quickly learned the trade of successful pumpkin growing; and

Whereas the Cogmagun, Hants County youth recently won the Stanley Pumpkin Weigh-off for a fourth consecutive year; and

Whereas the youthful competitor believes the success of having the best pumpkin pie is actually in the milk;

[Page 2622]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature applaud 15-year old Linzee MacKenzie of Cogmagun for winning the 2006 Stanley Pumpkin Weigh-off and wish her continued good fortune with future pumpkin competitions.

RESOLUTION NO. 1273

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Falmouth resident Jim Bremner has been farming for 40 years in Hants West, with his farm situated on the Castle Frederick Road in Upper Falmouth; and

Whereas Jim Bremner is one of approximately 1,200 beef producers in Nova Scotia, sitting on the Board of Directors of the Nova Scotia Cattlemen's Association, while also having served as President of the Association in recent years; and

Whereas Jim is a prominent beef producer who understands the integral challenges facing today's industry;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House applaud Jim Bremner for his dedication to Nova Scotia's beef and agricultural industry and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1274

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Alice Holleman of Windsor enjoys walking so much that she has lost 70 pounds in the past year; and

Whereas Alice has decided to enter a marathon fundraiser in Rio de Janeiro next June to help raise funds for the Canadian Diabetes Association; and

Whereas Alice wants to raise $6,100 while completing the 42 kilometre marathon in under five hours;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud the dynamic exercise ethic and fundraising abilities of Windsor's Alice Holleman, while wishing her every success in completing next June's marathon in under five hours.

[Page 2623]

RESOLUTION NO. 1275

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Three Mile Plains elementary school students Vicki Brown, Adam Howell and Justin Ehler were just a few of the students who took part this Fall in the Everyone Jump Kinds Changing Diabetes campaign; and

Whereas the campaign is all about the importance of physical activity and the importance of healthy eating; and

Whereas Three Mile Plains Elementary School principal Dave Campbell was quoted recently as saying the campaign kickoff was "an excellent opportunity to promote healthy living for students, while also tying in nicely with what is already promoted extensively at the school";

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly commend Three Mile Plains Elementary School Principal Dave Campbell, his staff and the many students for participating in such an essential lifestyle initiative.

RESOLUTION NO. 1276

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Falmouth carpenter Roscoe Schofield captured so much nostalgia in his local and surrounding communities this spring, when he built a quarter scale replica of the Windmill Canteen; and

Whereas the Windmill Canteen was first opened in the late 1930s by Lawrence Armstrong Sr. and was a favourite social gathering for all kinds of people; and

Whereas Ed Porter of Falmouth, who worked at the Windmill for 12 years, recalls the canteen as the place to be after local hockey games and recalls working a number of nights until 12:00 midnight, but plenty more when he worked until up to 4:00 a.m. before the last customers would leave;

[Page 2624]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly commend Roscoe Schofield for his unique building project while bringing back so many fond memories for people growing up in that generation of time.

RESOLUTION NO. 1277

By: Hon. Brooke Taylor (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Brookfield-based LaFarge Canada Inc. is presently the only cement plant operating in Atlantic Canada; and

Whereas employee safety is essential within the structure of any company and is a critical component within the structure of LaFarge Canada Inc.; and

Whereas the 80 employees at LaFarge Canada Inc. have been working for more than five year without any lost time due to a workplace accident;

Therefore be it resolved all members of Nova Scotia's House of Assembly applaud the safety record at LaFarge Canada Inc. and all plant workers for their commitment to workplace safety.

RESOLUTION NO. 1278

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Darren Hudson of Barrington, Nova Scotia has captured his second consecutive men's world log rolling championship on July 23, 2006; and

Whereas Mr. Hudson, age 28, is the first Canadian to win the men's world log rolling title since his uncle Phil Scott lost the title in 1980; and

Whereas Mr. Hudson swept former world champion Jamie Fischer three straight in front of Mr. Fischer's hometown crowd in Stillwater, Minnesota;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Darren Hudson on being the undisputed world log rolling champion of the world.

RESOLUTION NO. 1279

[Page 2625]

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Clark's Harbour Cardinals are the Southwestern Nova Scotia Baseball League Champions; and

Whereas the Cardinals took out Yarmouth Kelly's Gateways 3-2 in the best of five series wrapping it up in Yarmouth with a 6-2 win; and

Whereas Daniel Ross pitched a one-hitter for his team on their road to victory;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Clark's Harbour Cardinals on the championship victory in the Southwestern Nova Scotia Baseball League.

RESOLUTION NO. 1280

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas in August 2006, surgeons at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax removed a cancerous tumour from 16-month-old Gabriel Belong, and he will be heading to Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children for a transplant of his own bone marrow, which will rebuild his immune system; and

Whereas the Queens Regional Municipality has donated hearing aides if Gabriel Belong requires them in the future; and

Whereas the residents of Queens have been so helpful in putting on fundraisers to help with family expenses including travel and food while away from their home;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly give special recognition to the surgeons at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax and Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children, the Queens Regional Municipality and the residents of Queens for their support, as well special recognition be given to Gabriel Belong and his family.

RESOLUTION NO. 1281

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

[Page 2626]

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

Whereas the Greenwood Air Cadet Training Centre holds an introduction to instruction course each summer; and

Whereas Queens County has a very active squadron for young people in the community; and

Whereas 545 Liverpool Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron had one of their cadets chosen as one of the top cadets to graduate;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize and congratulate Cadet Crystal Weagle from 545 Liverpool Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron on her award from the Greenwood Air Cadet Training Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1282

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas Charlie Backman is known throughout Liverpool as a friendly, caring individual, often seen on his bicycle travelling the streets of Liverpool; and

Whereas an Alberta woman, Anne Dunn was visiting the Town of Liverpool on August 7, 2006 when her wallet fell out of her back pocket; and

Whereas Charlie Backman located the wallet on that day in August while riding on is bicycle on Bristol Street, and he took it immediately to the police station;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Charlie Backman of Western Head for his honesty in returning this wallet.

RESOLUTION NO. 1283

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

[Page 2627]

Whereas volunteer fire departments are a major component of our communities; and

Whereas the volunteers put on breakfasts, dinners, bingos, penny auctions and many other events that raise very important funds to keep our volunteer fire departments operating in our communities; and

Whereas the monies raised from all of these events ensure that our volunteer fire departments are well-equipped and that our volunteer firefighters are trained in order to support our communities;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize the many volunteers of the United Communities Fire Hall in Cherry Hill, and thank them for their many hours of contribution to their community and their hard work to organize all the fundraising efforts required to keep the United Communities Volunteer Fire Department viable in their community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1284

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas volunteer fire departments are a major component of our communities; and

Whereas the volunteers put on breakfasts, dinners, bingos, penny auctions and many other events that raise very important funds to keep our volunteer fire departments operating in our communities; and

Whereas the monies raised from all of these events ensure that our volunteer fire departments are well-equipped and that our volunteer firefighters are trained in order to support our communities;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize the many volunteers of the Italy Cross Fire Hall in Italy Cross, and thank them for their many hours of contribution to their community and their hard work to organize all the fundraising efforts required to keep the Italy Cross Volunteer Fire Department viable in their community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1285

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

[Page 2628]

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

Whereas the Lakeside Recreation Centre, located on the St. Margaret's Bay Road, is the recreational heart of the Beachville-Lakeside-Timberlea community; and

Whereas Doug Bramscombe and the staff of the Lakeside Recreation Centre have given exemplary leadership; and

Whereas the efforts of Doug Bramscombe and staff are much appreciated by area residents of all ages;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate and thank Doug Bramscombe and all those involved with the Lakeside Recreation Centre for their great work.

RESOLUTION NO. 1286

By: Mr. Gordon Gosse (Cape Breton Nova)

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

Whereas November is Diabetes Awareness Month; and

Whereas over 2 billion Canadians have diabetes, and it is estimated that over 50,000 people in Nova Scotia, approximately 8,000 in Cape Breton, are living with diabetes; and

Whereas on April 28, 2007, at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre, the Live Smart Canadian Diabetes Association Expo will be staged;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly acknowledge the Canadian Diabetes Association on holding this prestigious event, Live Smart Canadian Diabetes Association Expo, one that will go a long way in educating all about early diagnosis and good diabetes management.

RESOLUTION NO. 1287

By: Mr. Gordon Gosse (Cape Breton Nova)

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

[Page 2629]

Whereas Kenny Bickerton starred in goal for Sydney Academy for three seasons, backstopping the team to three consecutive Nova Scotia titles from 1973-76, as well as two Cape Breton Metros tournament titles; and

Whereas Kenny then went on to Dalhousie University where he was a standout with the Tigers for four seasons, capturing an AUAA Rookie of the Year Award, two All Star selections, winning an AUAA title, and a Male Athlete of the Year Award; and

Whereas Kenny was honoured with the prestigious role of serving as Honorary Chairman of the 2006 Sydney Academy Pepsi Challenge Cup Blue and White High School Hockey tournament;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly acknowledge Kenny Bickerton on his appointment as Honorary Chairman, and on his outstanding hockey accomplishments.

RESOLUTION NO. 1288

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Arichat resident, Jenny Pardy, a singer song-writer has been recently entertaining local residents with her singing skills; and

Whereas Jenny introduced people to her song-writing skills and singing skills when she participated in the creation of the ad, Sing for the Cure, meant to raise money for cancer research; and

Whereas Jenny was recently chosen to participate in the Songwriters' Circle of Hope, a group of people touched by cancer;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jenny Pardy for being chosen as part of the Songwriters' Circle of Hope and commend them for their efforts to raise money for the Cape Breton Regional Hospital's Cancer Treatment Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1289

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

[Page 2630]

Whereas the Richmond Academy Hurricane girls soccer team has a dedicated group of players, coach and parental support; and

Whereas the girls soccer team has been a force to be reckoned with in Cape Breton; and

Whereas the Hurricanes recently brought home the NSSAF Highland Regional Division 2 banner;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the coach, players and supporters of the Richmond Academy Hurricane girls soccer team on winning the regional banner.

RESOLUTION NO. 1290

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the InRich Business Development Centre Ltd. recently held its annual awards ceremony; and

Whereas D'Escousse resident, Raymond LeBlanc was presented with a watch commemorating his 25 years of involvement with this organization; and

Whereas Raymond LeBlanc, a local businessman and volunteer, has played a large role in the social and economic growth of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Raymond LeBlanc on being recognized for his dedication to InRich BDC Ltd. and wish him well in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1291

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Barbara MacLeod of Grand River, Richmond County is the organist with the Grand River Presbyterian Church choir; and

[Page 2631]

Whereas Barbara MacLeod has faithfully volunteered at this position for sixty-seven years; and

Whereas Barbara MacLeod has always made church minister and their families feel welcomed and appreciated by opening her home to them for dinners and socials;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Barbara MacLeod for dedicating an amazing sixty-seven years of her life to the Grand River Presbyterian Church and wish her continued good health and happiness.

RESOLUTION NO. 1292

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Dean Sampson of Louisdale, Richmond County is an employee of the Regional Occupational Centre in Port Hawkesbury; and

Whereas Dean Sampson has been collecting pop can tabs since 2003 in an effort to raise enough money to purchase a wheelchair for an individual or organization in need; and

Whereas it takes 3,032,000 tabs to purchase a wheelchair;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Dean for his hard work and dedication to help make life better for people in need.

RESOLUTION NO. 1293

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Grace Starkey of West Arichat, Richmond County is nine years old; and

Whereas she decided last year to donate her locks of hair, that took over three years to grow, to the Canadian Cancer Society to make wigs for cancer patients; and

Whereas wigs provided by the Cancer Society help cancer patients with one of the many physical and psychological effects of having cancer;

[Page 2632]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize and congratulate Grace Starkey for her truly noble personal sacrifice to make a difference in the life of cancer patients.

RESOLUTION NO. 1294

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Arichat resident Don Boudrot has spent the past three years putting together historical accounts of Isle Madame, its building, people and events through research and conversation with his father, Lorenzo Boudreau; and

Whereas Don Boudrot has previously released three works on the history of Isle Madame; and

Whereas his most recent work, A Walk in the Past, concentrates on painting a detailed picture of several Isle Madame communities in the year 1935;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Don Boudrot and Lorenzo Boudreau for putting in print such important stories and facts on the history of Isle Madame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1295

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas few writers ever experience the excitement of having one of their poems published in an international anthology of poetry; and

Whereas nine year old Kallie Sampson, a Grade 4 student at Felix Marchand Education Centre in Louisdale submitted her poem, "It Doesn't Change" in the competition; and

[Page 2633]

Whereas the Creative Communication Summer 2006 Young Poets Contest, a U.S. based competition, selected Kallie's poem from thousands of submissions and will be published in a book entitled Celebration of Young Poets;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Kallie Sampson on having her poem published and wish her well in her future poetry.

RESOLUTION NO. 1296

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the Spanish Mist is a tugboat which guides the enormous gypsum boats loaded with 24,000 tons of gypsum in and out of Hantsport; and

Whereas Spanish Mist captain, Mark Langdon, and his crew on October 22nd at 1:45 p.m. completed the one thousandth voyage of the Mist by safely docking at the gypsum dock in Hantsport; and

Whereas the Spanish Mist is owned by Fundy Gypsum Company Limited and completed sailing number 1,000 uneventfully;

Therefore be it resolved MLAs in this House of Assembly recognize and congratulate Captain Mark Langdon and the loyal crew of the Spanish Mist for their arduous work and wish them another safe 1,000 voyages.

RESOLUTION NO. 1297

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas The Living Christmas Tree will be performing for the 17th year, hosted once again on December 9th and December 10th by the Grace United Church in Port Greville; and

Whereas this popular Christmas tradition is made up of 40 to 45 volunteers from the area participating in this year's tree which continues to fill the church pews for every show; and

[Page 2634]

Whereas The Living Christmas Tree donates the freewill offering it collects to the upkeep of the United Church;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the volunteers who participate in this wonderful Christmas tradition of The Living Christmas Tree and we wish them continued success and hope they continue to spread this joyous tradition for many more years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 1298

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the 76 Minas Cadet Division in Windsor plays a prominent role in the Canadian Cadet Program; and

Whereas the Canadian Cadet Program is a nationally sponsored program for young Canadians ages 12 to 18 who are interested in participating in a variety of challenging and rewarding activities and learning more about the Canadian Forces; and

Whereas local Windsor cadet, James Greene, recently participated in a three-week long music course on the HMCS Avalon in St. John's, Newfoundland;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs in this House of Assembly applaud the initiative of Cadet Greene for wanting to explore the numerous opportunities available to him and congratulate him for attending and participating in the music program on the HMCS Avalon.

RESOLUTION NO. 1299

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the 5th annual Bluegrass Festival on the Kempt Shore was an annual highlight for local music enthusiasts; and

Whereas Bluegrass Music remains alive and well throughout a large area of Nova Scotia; and

[Page 2635]

Whereas Mark and Teri Peterson do tremendous work annually with volunteers and sponsors in the promotion of the Kempt Shore Bluegrass Festival;

Therefore be it resolved MLAs in this House of Assembly recognize the dedicated role played by Mark and Teri Peterson in making sure the Bluegrass Festival continues to play an integral tourism and musical role on the beautiful Kempt Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 1300

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Dawn MacNeil, leader of the 1st Windsor Forks Brownies, who is also a camp advisor for the Hants County area and a Nova Scotia Provincial Link advisor, participated in the 2006 Guiding Mosaic at the Guelph Conservation Area earlier this year; and

Whereas more than 2,500 girls and women participated in this Guiding Mosaic with Guides from across Canada discovering an environment of joy, laughter, discovery, friendship, learning, sharing, pride and achievement; and

Whereas the Canadian Girl Guide movement is the largest network of women in the world with more than 135,000 members;

Therefore be it resolved MLAs in this House of Assembly applaud Dawn MacNeil for her outstanding volunteer work at the 2006 International Girl Guide Camp Guiding Mosaic in Guelph, Ontario.

RESOLUTION NO. 1301

By: Ms. Maureen MacDonald (Halifax Needham)

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

Whereas St. George's Round Church, constructed in 1800 with a very distinctive circular design, survived a disastrous fire in 1994 and has been rebuilt thanks to the hard work and dedication of its congregation; and

Whereas Saint George's YouthNet is the church's outreach program to the youth of North End Halifax, which operates a lunchtime drop-in, a variety of after school programs, a CAP site, wilderness hikes and other programs and activities; and

[Page 2636]

Whereas Symphony Nova Scotia recently held a very successful benefit concert for St. George's YouthNet on Friday, November 17, 2006, called Youth for Youth: Music in the Round Church, featuring 28-year-old conductor, Dinuk Wijeratne, and 17-year-old violin virtuoso, Celeste Williams;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly thank all those involved in the Symphony Nova Scotia benefit concert, including the organizers, performers and audience, for their generosity and support and congratulate Saint George's Round Church and Saint George's YouthNet for their ongoing service to the young people of North End Halifax.

RESOLUTION NO. 1302

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 small businesses are commonly referred to as the backbone of the economy; and

Whereas the failure rate of small businesses is very high; and

Whereas on November 10, 2006, Ms. Annette Langille, owner of Jasmines Hair & Esthetics Inc., located in Elmsdale, celebrated her business' 10th Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Annette Langille and her staff on the celebration of the 10th Anniversary of Jasmines Hair & Esthetics and wish them every success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1303

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 drug and alcohol addiction ruins many lives and families; and

Whereas Mr. Doug Knockwood of Indian Brook helped to found Mi'kmaw Lodge Treatment Centre in Eskasoni; and

Whereas on September 21, 2006, the Mi'kmaw Lodge Treatment Centre celebrated its 20th Anniversary;

[Page 2637]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Doug Knockwood and the staff of Mi'kmaw Lodge Treatment Centre on their 20th Anniversary and wish them success in their healing.

RESOLUTION NO. 1304

By: Mr. Clarrie MacKinnon (Pictou East)

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

Whereas Angela Cruickshank of Hopewell was the local organizer for the Presbyterian Youth Synod held in November 2006 in Pictou County and 100 teens gathered from the Atlantic Provinces; and

Whereas the theme of the weekend was Make Poverty History and the event included several educational presentations on this topic; and

Whereas the group presented a signed banner and a worship service to highlight this theme;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend Angela Cruickshank, the team who helped plan the event and the 100 youth who attended the Presbyterian Youth Synod for their efforts to educate others to help make poverty history.

RESOLUTION NO. 1305

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 publishers in Nova Scotia are the preservers of our culture and a source of skilled employment in rural communities; and

Whereas the publishing industry needs support in order to be able to compete and continue to offer stable sustainable employment; and

Whereas the lack of support is driving Nova Scotian authors to other markets to publish their books;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Government develop a plan to provide initiatives to the Nova Scotia publishing industry.

[Page 2638]

RESOLUTION NO. 1306

By: Ms. Marilyn More (Dartmouth South-Portland Valley)

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

Whereas the United Way of Halifax Region started from a 1921 meeting of citizens concerned about raising and distributing money to help people in need; and

Whereas United Way has evolved into a community builder focused on lasting and meaningful social change through building the capacity of individuals, organizations and neighbourhoods; and

Whereas this organization makes the largest investment in the voluntary sector and social services in HRM next to government;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the United Way of Halifax Region for involving 100 citizens and community leaders in its November 22, 2006 community consultation, and that the board of directors, staff and donors for their visionary leadership and commitment.

RESOLUTION NO. 1307

By: Ms. Marilyn More (Dartmouth South-Portland Valley)

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

Whereas November 25th is recognized as International Day to End Violence Against Women; and

Whereas the November 25th date was first recognized by women in Latin America and the Caribbean to commemorate the death of the Mirabel sisters who were brutally murdered in the Dominican Republic in 1960; and

Whereas December 6th is known as the Canadian Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women recognizing the tragic deaths of 14 young women in Montreal in 1989;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize this year's 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence between November 24th and December 10th, and rededicate our collective efforts to wipe out family violence in the Province of Nova Scotia.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1308

By: Ms. Marilyn More (Dartmouth South-Portland Valley)

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

Whereas Paul Clarke and his son Jason, have been dedicated fundraisers for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada; and

Whereas their eight-member team, the Boneshakers raised over $10,600 during the Vineyards and Valleys RONA MS Bike Tour between Windsor and Wolfville this past summer; and

Whereas the father-and-son team raised an additional $3,000 at the recent fundraising auction held at GTO's Bar for their cause;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Paul and Jason Clarke for their incredible fundraising efforts on behalf of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, and thank them for their generosity of time and effort in raising more than $30,000 over the last seven years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1309

By: Mr. Percy Paris (Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Lockview High School's music teacher and band director, Joe Cormier has been fostering a love of music in students for 26 years; and

Whereas Lockview High School swept the awards at last year's Kiwanis Music Festival in Halifax, winning the Most Outstanding Senior High School Band of the Festival and further earning four gold awards with its Grade 9 and Grade 10 bands, Senior Concert Band and Jazz Band Ensemble; and

Whereas Lockview High School music teacher, Joe Cormier was awarded the prestigious Oxner Baton for Most Outstanding Conductor at the Winter 2006 Kiwanis Music Festival, after which Mr. Cormier then led his Lockview Jazz Ensemble to an international festival in Boston where they won silver;

[Page 2640]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate and commend Joe Cormier for his unflagging passion for music and teaching over the past 26 years, and for leading Lockview High School's award-winning music program.

RESOLUTION NO. 1310

By: Mr. Percy Paris (Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Wanda Thomas Bernard, Director of Dalhousie University's School of Social Work and a founding member of the Association of Black Social Workers, is an accomplished and acclaimed scholar, educator and social worker; and

Whereas Dr. Thomas Bernard has worked tirelessly to address racial and cultural diversity in social work education and in the community; and

Whereas Wanda Thomas Bernard is a 2006 recipient of the Women of Excellence Award for Education and Research to be awarded today, November 23, 2006 by the Canadian Progress Club, Halifax-Cornwallis;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate and honour Wanda Thomas Bernard for her outstanding contributions to her field and for her inspired work within the community at large to combat racism throughout all levels of society.

RESOLUTION NO. 1311

By: Mr. Charles Parker (Pictou West)

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

Whereas the Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association has recently been formed and had a very successful launch on October 3, 2006; and

Whereas the Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association has as its mission to help raise awareness and improve the quality of life by creating safer communities; and

Whereas the Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association has the support of municipalities and thousands of residents and businesses throughout Pictou County;

[Page 2641]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association along with its chair, Bob McCauley and its executive director, Barb Dewtie, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1312

By: Mr. Leonard Preyra (Halifax Citadel)

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

Whereas award-winning Nova Scotian author and journalist, Joan Baxter has spent more than 20 years living and working in Africa, writing about and reporting on the continent for international media outlets and NGOs; and

Whereas as of January 1, 2007, Ms. Baxter will be continuing her work as a cross-continental educator as the newly-appointed executive director of the Halifax-based Nova Scotia-Gambia Association; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia-Gambia Association is already a widely recognized and highly-respected organization for its work doing community-based, youth-driven health and education programs in the Gambia and Sierra Leone, and Ms. Baxter's appointment to his new position within the organization speaks to the great value of her experience and skills;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly extend sincere congratulations and best wishes to Ms. Baxter as she and the Nova Scotia-Gambia Association continue to bridge the geographical divide between Nova Scotians and West Africans through their educational and community development work on both continents.

RESOLUTION NO. 1313

By: Mr. Leonard Preyra (Halifax Citadel)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia playwright, filmmaker and actor, Daniel MacIvor has been awarded the 2006 Governor General's Literacy Award for drama for his collection of plays, I Still Love You; and

[Page 2642]

Whereas the Governor General's Literary Award recognizes excellence in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, translation, children's text and children's illustration, and is considered to be one of the most prestigious literary honours in Canada; and

Whereas the independent jury for the competition described the collection as "a dazzling display of virtuosity and honest, [that] demonstrate the author's consummate theatricality, as well as his compelling humanity";

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly applaud Daniel MacIvor on receiving the Governor General's Literary Award and commend him for his numerous contributions to Canadian theatre and film.

RESOLUTION NO. 1314

By: Ms. Michele Raymond (Halifax Atlantic)

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

Whereas the Conservative's Action Plan on Off-Highway Vehicles in 2005 made a commitment to remove the ministerial discretion from the Wilderness Areas Protection Act; and

Whereas the Conservative Government's own green plan makes a commitment to remove the ministerial discretion from the Wilderness Areas Protection Act; and

Whereas a previous Minister of the Environment in 2005 gave his commitment on behalf of his department that he would remove the ministerial discretion found in the Wilderness Areas Protection Act;

Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Environment and Labour must exercise his abilities as minister to live up to his government's previous commitments and must take immediate action to remove the ministerial discretion found in the Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

RESOLUTION NO. 1315

By: Ms. Michele Raymond (Halifax Atlantic)

[Page 2643]

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

Whereas many of the communities of Halifax Atlantic have their own long and distinctive traditions of artistic production, music and community theatre; and

Whereas all the young people of these communities attend high school at J.L. Ilsley, which has its own lengthy musical and theatre traditions, yielding some of Halifax's most distinguished young performers; and

Whereas the parents, teachers and students of J.L. Ilsley are working to create a studio theatre and rehearsal space in an unused building behind the school;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly through the Department of Education and the Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage support the J.L. Ilsley community in their enterprise, looking forward to great things from this initiative.

RESOLUTION NO. 1316

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the Windsor chapter of Junior Chamber International won the Best International Development Opportunity award and the 100 per cent Efficiency Award at the recent JCI National Convention in Kingston, Ontario; and

Whereas Junior Chamber International is devoted to helping young leaders of today tackle difficult civic problems, while helping young people develop their business skills and effectiveness; and

Whereas the two awards won by JCI Windsor recognized the local contingent for their growth in 2006 and for their prompt and efficient manner in which they completed prospective plans;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the significant contributions put forward by JCI Windsor and wish them every continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1317

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

[Page 2644]

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

Whereas Janet Maxner, daughter of prominent dairy farmers Barry and Nancy Maxner of Windsor, won a prestigious Farm Credit Canada scholarship earlier this year; and

Whereas Janet, who is an active 4-H member, saw her project concerning farm safety road signs selected as the best in Canada, and provided her with $1,500 in prize money, a $2,000 scholarship and an additional $3,000 to implement her plan; and

Whereas Janet's road sign project involves the production of road signs, warning commuters of slow-moving vehicles, like tractors, and to proceed with caution when passing, especially commuters from larger centres not familiar with the dangers involved when passing through rural agricultural areas;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the outstanding work undertaken by Windsor's Janet Maxner on her project with the Farm Credit Corporation and for submitting the best project proposal in Canada.

RESOLUTION NO. 1318

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas photography is a passion for Windsor artist Audrey Goucher-Millet and her husband, Lewis, as the couple travels across Nova Scotia photographing locations of interest; and

Whereas what is so unique about this passion of photography, is that Audrey turns various photos into renowned painted quilts, of which one presently hangs in the new public library in Windsor; and

Whereas Audrey took an entire winter to paint the 20 photographic scenes of Nova Scotia on her quilt which so proudly hangs in the library;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud the talent and interest of Audrey Goucher-Millett and her husband, Lewis, in photography as well as her quilt design.

RESOLUTION NO. 1319

[Page 2645]

By: Mr.Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Royal Canadian Legion Branch 9 in Windsor believes strongly in the role being played by Canada's military in the war on terrorism; and

Whereas the Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command has sanctioned and endorsed Red T-Shirt Friday's with the logo, We support our troops, on the front of them; and

Whereas Royal Canadian Legion Branch 9 is selling these shirts, along with pins, in their support of our troops;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly give our appreciation along with our blessings to the executive and all members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 9 Windsor for their great work in supporting and raising local awareness of the great work being accomplished by members of our Canadian military, while also offering our support to family members left at home by soldiers leaving to play a vital role in the war on terrorism.

RESOLUTION NO. 1320

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Windsor JCI members Marilyn Barkhouse and Heidi Phillips recently returned from the JCI National Convention in Kingston, Ontario, with a couple of distinguished awards; and

Whereas Heidi Phillips won the First Timer's Program Award for her creative networking with delegates, and Marilyn was awarded the Best JCI Chapter Presidents Award; and

Whereas it was Marilyn's robust work on the energy efficiency project which garnered the Windsor Chapter one of two national awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly compliment Marilyn and Heidi for their outstanding work with Junior Chamber International and wish them success and good fortune in the future.

[Page 2646]

RESOLUTION NO. 1321

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the Windsor Chapter of Junior Chamber International won the Best International Development Opportunity Award and the 100% Efficiency Award at the recent JCI National Convention in Kingston, Ontario; and

Whereas Junior Chamber International is devoted to helping young leaders of today tackle difficult civic problems, while helping young people develop their business skills and effectiveness; and

Whereas the two awards won by JCI Windsor recognize the local contingent for their growth in 2006 and for their prompt and efficient manner in which they completed prospective plans;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the significant contributions put forward by JCI Windsor, such as the continued operation of the Windsor Tourist Bureau, and wish them every continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1322

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Nova Scotians have assisted the physically challenged in our province through legislation, organizations and personal concern; and

Whereas the League of Equal Opportunities has established a high standard for changing building requirements for wheelchair accessibility, workplace opportunity, and improvements to everyday living; and

Whereas parking is one of the requirements for day-to-day living for those who require the use of a wheelchair;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House demand that one handicapped parking space be designated "wheelchair only" in public parking lots.

RESOLUTION NO. 1323

[Page 2647]

By: The Premier

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

Whereas all of Inverness County was saddened by the recent loss of "Little" Eddie Chisholm; and

Whereas "Little" Eddie was an amazing musician who, for six decades, thrilled audiences throughout the region; and

Whereas while serious health concerns sidelined this guitarist at one stage, he soon discovered upon return to his passion of guitar playing, that it was, in fact, therapeutic for his arthritis, and continued on for years after;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House commend the tremendous life and talent of "Little" Eddie Chisholm and know, thanks to the many lessons he has passed along to others, his legacy and music will live on.

RESOLUTION NO. 1324

By: The Premier

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

Whereas 16-year-old Port Hood native, Evan Watts, is currently moving quickly up the hockey ladder in his pursuit of making it to the NHL; and

Whereas Evan has just recently added a call to be a part of Nova Scotia's Canada Games hockey team in Whitehorse this February to his long list of accomplishments in such a short number of years; and

Whereas his Cape Breton West coach, Craig MacInnis, recently said of this young man's talent, "As far as I'm concerned, Evan can go as far as he wants in hockey";

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Evan Watts on being named to our Canada Games hockey team and wish him all the best as he continues to strive for excellence in the game of hockey.

RESOLUTION NO. 1325

[Page 2648]

By: Hon. Ernest Fage (Human Resources)

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

Whereas Cindy and Tom Bird of Amherst have been teaching CPR techniques and first aid for the past 10 years and have been members of the St. John Ambulance for 14 years; and

Whereas together, this husband and wife team teach between 100 and 150 CPR courses a year, trying to make the point that if CPR is not applied quickly that the victim will die - chest compressions alone can make the difference; and

Whereas Tom wanted to do more to save lives, so he took the EMA program to be a paramedic and is presently working with EHS in Amherst, and stresses the fact that when a 911 call is made, our response time, as paramedics, is five to six minutes and, by then, brain cells are already dying - CPR needs to start immediately to give victims a better chance of survival;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in sending our congratulations to Tom and Cindy Bird for training people to save lives and thank them during this CPR Awareness Month of November.

RESOLUTION NO. 1326

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas the Queens County Fair is held each September in Caledonia, Queens County, Nova Scotia; and

Whereas a large component of this county fair each year is the fine food to be found on the fairgrounds; and

Whereas volunteers from the Caledonia United Church take on the major project of providing pie shells for this county fair each year;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize and congratulate Betty and Jim Ross, Patricia Wamboldt, Edith Crouse, Katie Veniot, Hanna Spidle, Ann Lohnes, Muriel Canning, Judy Flemming, Vivian Mackay, Janet Martine and Janelle Veniot for their time and energy to make the Queens County Fair one of the best in Nova Scotia.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1327

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas the South Shore of Nova Scotia recently hosted the 4-H Pro Show in Bridgewater where 2,500 provincial 4-H members competed in woodworking, crafts, cake decorating, small animal showing, tractor driving, tug of war, baking, public speaking, dog obedience, western riding, welding and more over a weekend; and

Whereas 4-H members are provided with the opportunity to take part in clinics, sports, games, picnics, camp-outs, tours and exchanges; and

Whereas 4-H members work on projects, learn how to organize and carry out a meeting and take part in public speaking;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize and congratulate members of the 4-Leaf Clover Club of Queens County: Erin McCarthy, Jesse Frail, Cody Crouse, Nichole van Dyke, Tara McCarthy, Cory Ryan, Cody Atkins, Leah Veinot, Marissa Mansfield, Katelyn Mansfield, Allison Lewis, Car Ryan and Mallory Maxwell.

RESOLUTION NO. 1328

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas Alain Raimbault, a writer from Wilmot, Annapolis County, was selected for the coveted 2006 Prix Grand-Pré Award, an award established in 1987 to recognize the work of Acadian Nova Scotians in performing arts and film, visual arts and crafts and visual arts; and

Whereas Mr. Raimbault received the Prix Grand-Pré Award in October at the Creative Nova Scotia Awards Gala held in Pictou for his outstanding literary work reflecting Acadian culture with excellence and originality; and

Whereas Mr. Raimbault has published nine novels and four volumes of poetry and is widely recognized in France, the United States and Canada for his literary achievements;

[Page 2650]

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. Raimbault on receiving the Prix Grand-Pré Award and wishing him all the best in his future literary endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1329

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas Wayne Boucher, a well-known visual artist from Annapolis County, was the recipient of the Portia White Prize at the Creative Nova Scotia Awards Gala held recently in Pictou, an award established to exemplify the spirit of Portia White, a classical singer from Nova Scotia who overcame adversity to achieve international acclaim on the great stages of Europe and North America; and

Whereas Mr. Boucher's abstract paintings characterizing traditional Maritime occupations have been exhibited regionally, nationally and internationally; and

Whereas Mr. Boucher has been a dedicated volunteer, mentor and advocate in Nova Scotia's art community, founding the Annapolis Regional Community Arts Council and focusing his energy and talents to the betterment of artists, arts organizations and his community;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. Wayne Boucher on being recognized for his achievement and dedication to the arts in Nova Scotia by being awarded the prestigious Portia White Prize and wishing him all the best in his future artistic endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1330

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 the 4th annual Glen Murray High School hockey tournament was held October 26th to October 29th at the Bridgewater Memorial Arena; and

Whereas the co-hosts, Bridgewater Vikings and Parkview Panthers, each played hard and enjoyed the tournament; and

[Page 2651]

Whereas Bridgewater Vikings defenceman, Dale Peters, and forward, Shawn Budden, were among those acknowledged for their outstanding efforts during the weekend;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Dale Peters and Shawn Budden for their outstanding performances at the 4th annual Glen Murray Tournament.

RESOLUTION NO. 1331

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 youth of all ages are encouraged to participate in sports; and

Whereas excelling in a sport takes great skill and dedication; and

Whereas Marc Young of Bridgewater, Lunenburg County, has been named South Shore Zone Junior Golfer of the Year;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Marc Young on this remarkable accomplishment.

RESOLUTION NO. 1332

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 members of our police forces work daily to provide safe, secure communities; and

Whereas many of those members have given many years of dedicated service to their community; and

Whereas Corporal Jim Passmore of the RCMP South Shore Traffic Services has completed 35 years of service to various communities;

[Page 2652]

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Corporal Jim Passmore of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, upon his retirement from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and wish him well for the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1333

By: Hon. Judy Streatch (Community Services)

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

Whereas Peter McCreath was born in Halifax and resides in Hubbards. He is a graduate of Saint Mary's, Dalhousie and the University of Toronto; and

Whereas he has experienced a diverse career, including service as a naval officer, high school and university teacher, author, television broadcaster, journalist, public affairs executive and consultant, and small business operator. For a decade he served as a member of the professional staff of the Nova Scotia Teachers' Union; and

Whereas on October 29, 2006, Peter McCreath was bestowed an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Saint Mary's University;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Peter McCreath on receiving a Doctor of Civil Law, and wish him much success in the years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 1334

By: Hon. Angus MacIsaac (Transportation and Public Works)

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

Whereas Rod J. Chisholm of Antigonish was the recipient of the Scot of the Year Award. Rod Chisholm received this award from the Federation of Scottish Clans in Nova Scotia at their annual meeting; and

Whereas Rod Chisholm has been involved in promoting Scottish heritage programs for many years. Rod Chisholm has served the Highland Society for 25 years; and

Whereas Rod Chisholm represented Clan Chisholm of Nova Scotia at the International Gathering of the Chisholms in Inverness, Scotland, in July 2001;

[Page 2653]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Rod J. Chisholm on his Scot of the Year Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 1335

By: Hon. Angus MacIsaac (Transportation and Public Works)

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

Whereas Doreen Decoste from Havre Boucher, Nova Scotia, was a war bride; and

Whereas Doreen Decoste came to Canada aboard the Aquitania in 1947 from Nottingham, England; met overseas, fell in love with and later married Joseph Xavier Decoste, a deceased veteran who served in World War II; and

Whereas Doreen Decoste was unable to join the war brides in Halifax for the war bride reunion;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in recognizing and thanking Doreen Decoste on being a war bride.

RESOLUTION NO. 1336

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas Colleen McNeil, a Grade 11 student at Bridgetown Regional High, is involved in a wide variety of activities, from soccer to volleyball, from president of the student council to helping a figure skating teacher with young students; and

Whereas Colleen McNeil also has many talents in the arts, performing as an actor and playing the tenor saxophone, clarinet and flute; and

Whereas Colleen McNeil has the distinct privilege of having been selected as a delegate for the Annapolis Liberal Association for the federal Liberal Leadership Convention in December;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the House of Assembly congratulate Colleen McNeil on her selection as a delegate and her many other achievements and wish her well in future endeavours.

[Page 2654]

RESOLUTION NO. 1337

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating coach Terry Saunders on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1338

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Filipe Zveibil on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1339

[Page 2655]

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Devon Robar on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1340

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jordan Saunders on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO 1341

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

[Page 2656]

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Kay Marx on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1342

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jacob Meisner on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1343

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

[Page 2657]

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Zach McNeil on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1344

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Bernardo Martinelli on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1345

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

[Page 2658]

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Alex Neily on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1346

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Geoff Burke on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1347

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

[Page 2659]

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Dennis Frost on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1348

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Mitchell Lowe on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1349

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

[Page 2660]

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Travis Beals on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1350

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Davy Burke on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1351

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

[Page 2661]

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jesse Bent on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1352

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jeremy Bent on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1353

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Annapolis)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School Senior Boys Trojan soccer team captured the NSSAF Senior Boys Soccer Provincial Championship; and

[Page 2662]

Whereas Digby hosted the provincial tournament November 3 and 4, 2006, that resulted in the Bridgetown team defeating New Germany by a score of 2 to 1 in the final game; and

Whereas through hard work, dedication and team spirit throughout the season the team was able to secure the coveted title and bring pride to their school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Rob Smith on a successful soccer season and wishing him all the success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1354

By: Mr. Alfred MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on October 16th this year, the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce handed out its business awards to successful Cape Breton businesses; and

Whereas Island businesses were recognized for a variety of achievements, including the Rising Star award and Business Person of the Year award, and several people were inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Joan Weeks of the Folkus Atlantic Inc. of Sydney accepted an Excellence in Business award on behalf of her staff at the operation;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their warm congratulations to Joan Weeks of Folkus Atlantic Inc. on its Excellence in Business award from the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce.

RESOLUTION NO. 1355

By: Mr. Alfred MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on October 16th this year, the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce handed out its business awards to successful Cape Breton businesses; and

[Page 2663]

Whereas Island businesses were recognized for a variety of achievements, including the Rising Star award and Business Person of the Year award, and several people were inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Blair Oake of City Printers Ltd. of Sydney accepted an Excellence in Business award on behalf of his organization;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their warm congratulations to Blair Oake of City Printers Ltd. on its Excellence in Business award from the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce.

RESOLUTION NO. 1356

By: Mr. Alfred MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on October 16th this year, the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce handed out its business awards to successful Cape Breton businesses; and

Whereas Island businesses were recognized for a variety of achievements, including the Rising Star award and Business Person of the Year award, and several people were inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Blair MacPherson, of Tigger's Draperies & Blinds accepted an Excellence in Business award on behalf of his Sydney River operation;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their warm congratulations to Blair MacPherson of Tigger's Draperies & Blinds on its Excellence in Business Award from the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce.

RESOLUTION NO. 1357

By: Mr. Alfred MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on October 16th of this year, the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce handed out its business awards to successful Cape Breton businesses; and

[Page 2664]

Whereas Island businesses were recognized for a variety of achievements, including the Rising Star award and Business Person of the Year award, and several people were inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Gordon MacDonald of Black & White Fisheries Ltd. accepted an Excellence in Business award on behalf of his staff at the Sydney River operation;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their warm congratulations to Gordon MacDonald and everyone at Black & White Fisheries Ltd. on its Excellence in Business award from the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce.

RESOLUTION NO. 1358

By: Mr. Alfred MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on October 16th of this year, the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce handed out its business awards to successful Cape Breton businesses; and

Whereas Island businesses were recognized for a variety of achievements, including the Rising Star award and Business Person of the Year award, and several people were inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Bill O'Brien of the Cape Breton University Alumni Association accepted an Excellence in Business award on behalf of the organization;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their warm congratulations to Bill O'Brien of the Cape Breton University Alumni Association on its Excellence in Business award from the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce.

RESOLUTION NO. 1359

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas soccer is the most popular sport on Earth, played in virtually every country by people of all ages; and

Whereas the Halifax West Warriors captured their fourth consecutive Division 1 Banner in a 2-1 victory over the Dr. J.H. Gillis Royals on Saturday, November 4th; and

[Page 2665]

Whereas winning four consecutive titles is a highly recognizable feat and has not been accomplished in the league for over 20 years;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the players and coaches of the Halifax West Warriors on their fourth consecutive championship, and wish them every success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1360

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas the RBC Canadian Woman Entrepreneur Awards are presented to women entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the economy here in Canada, and have made substantial contributions to their own communities; and

Whereas one of the fastest-growing business segments in Canada is women entrepreneurs who are creating companies at double the rate of the national average, providing $18 billion to the Canadian economy; and

Whereas Pernille Fischer Boulter, President and founder of Kisserup International Trade Roots has been nominated for a 2006 RBC Canadian Woman Entrepreneur award;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Pernille Fischer Boulter for the recognition, and wish her continued success in all her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1361

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas Citizens on Patrol is a volunteer program with Halifax Regional Police; and

Whereas private citizens coordinate with the HRM PD to patrol communities to curb vandalism and disorderly behaviour in an effort to keep our communities safe; and

Whereas volunteers like Blair Mombourquette and Mike Bowers give their time to Citizens on Patrol in an effort to improve their community;

[Page 2666]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House acknowledge and congratulate all the Citizens on Patrol for giving their valuable time and making our community a safer place to live.

RESOLUTION NO. 1362

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas Glen Holmes, the President of Pseudio, and his wife, Nancy, the owner of Samuel & Co, and Envy, together operate 23 locations in Atlantic Canada and employ 280 people; and

Whereas Glen opened his first store 22 years ago and has worked hard to make Pseudio become an Atlantic region business success; and

Whereas Pseudio Bayers Lake is celebrating the grand opening this month of its 5,500- square foot "Concept Store";

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the Legislature congratulate Glen and Nancy Holmes on the opening of their newest store, and wish them continued success in all their future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1363

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas the Halifax West Warriors captured their fourth consecutive Division 1 Banner in a 2-1 victory over the Dr. J.H. Gillis Royals on Saturday, November 4th; and

Whereas goalkeeping is the most difficult position on the soccer field; and

Whereas Sean Hornbuckle, keeper for the Halifax West Warriors, had an exceptional game which helped propel his team to triumph and win the finals;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Sean Hornbuckle and his Halifax West Warriors team for their outstanding play and winning the provincial championship.

[Page 2667]

RESOLUTION NO. 1364

By: Ms. Diana Whalen (Halifax Clayton Park)

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

Whereas Stephanie Power of Halifax, a third-year student in kinesiology, was elected as Student Union Vice-President Internal for Memorial University of Newfoundland for 2006-07; and

Whereas Stephanie, one of 840 Nova Scotian students currently enrolled at Memorial, is proud to be a member of the Student Union, which represents more than 13,000 undergraduate students; and

Whereas many of our brightest and most promising students, like Stephanie, are forced to leave Nova Scotia for their post-secondary studies because we have the highest tuition rates in Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House congratulate Stephanie Power on her election to the Student Union at MUN, and wish her every success in her future studies and endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1365

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas many of our communities throughout Nova Scotia are blessed with a wealth of dedicated volunteers who enrich our communities; and

Whereas many of our local volunteer fire departments are supported in various ways by a group of community volunteers; and

Whereas the Little Brook Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary was recognized recently at the department's annual banquet;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate the Little Brook Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary as they celebrate their recent 25th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 1366

[Page 2668]

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas many local volunteer firefighters provide a vital and outstanding service throughout rural Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Roland Boudreau has been recognized for his dedication and service beyond the call of duty in helping preserve the security of our community; and

Whereas Roland Boudreau has been recognized recently by the Little Brook Volunteer Fire Department for his 25 years of dedicated service;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate firefighter Roland Boudreau for receiving his Fire Service Long Service Award for his 25 years of service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1367

By: Mr. Gordon Gosse (Cape Breton Nova)

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

Whereas from July 4 to 14, 2006, in Cardiff, Wales, the World Schools Debating Championships were held; and

Whereas Blair MacDonald and Sheldon McCormick, both Sydney Academy graduates, were members of the Canadian High School Debating Team; and

Whereas the five-member Canadian team finished fourth among 36 countries, the best placing for a Canadian team in 17 years;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly acknowledge the hard work and dedication of both Blair MacDonald and Sheldon McCormick and wish them continued success in their scholastic endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1368

By: Mr. Gordon Gosse (Cape Breton Nova)

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

[Page 2669]

Whereas on Tuesday, September 26, 2006, Canadian Interuniversity Sport announced its weekly rankings; and

Whereas for the first time, both the Cape Breton University men's and women's soccer teams were ranked - the men, number 9; and the women number 10, a significant feat both teams can be proud of; and

Whereas holding special significance for the men's team, it is their first-ever ranking in the top 10;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly acknowledge the Capers men's and women's soccer teams on achieving a ranking of 9 and 10, respectively, for putting their best forward, and wish them continued success in their future athletic endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1369

By: Mr. Gordon Gosse (Cape Breton Nova)

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

Whereas on November 1, 2006, Atlantic University Sport announced its 2006 first and second team soccer all-stars; and

Whereas Cape Breton University striker, Cheryl Wall, was one of those all-starts so honoured; and

Whereas Cheryl, a fourth-year student at CBU, and the 2003 Atlantic Conference Rookie of the Year, was selected to the First All-Star Team;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the Legislative Assembly congratulate Cheryl Wall on her noteworthy athletic achievement and wish her continued success in all her soccer endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1370

By: Mr. Gordon Gosse (Cape Breton Nova)

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

[Page 2670]

Whereas on November 1, 2006, Atlantic University Sport announced its 2006 first and second team soccer all-stars; and

Whereas Cape Breton University midfielder, Hannah Abenheimer, was one of those all-stars so honoured; and

Whereas second-year student, Hannah Abenheimer, was selected to the First All-Star Team for the second straight season;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the Legislative Assembly congratulate Hannah Abenheimer on her noteworthy athletic achievement and wish her continued success in all her soccer endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1371

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Education)

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

Whereas the Bayhead Union Church was built by the early Presbyterian, Methodist and Baptist settlers of Bayhead; and

Whereas it has served as the religious centre of the village; and

Whereas it is celebrating its 140th Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend their congratulations to the members of the Bayhead Union Church.

RESOLUTION NO. 1372

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Tom Ernst of Mahone Bay, Lunenburg County, has been chosen as this year's western region Woodlot Owner of the Year; and

Whereas Mr. Ernst, a former employee of the Department of Natural Resources, has been managing his woodlot for 39 years and also owns and operates T. Ernst Forest Products Ltd. and Tannenbaum Enterprises; and

[Page 2671]

Whereas Mr. Ernst attributes his success over the years of his crew members who have worked alongside him for over 30 years;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Tom Ernst as this year's recipient of the western region Woodlot Owner of the Year.

RESOLUTION NO. 1373

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the national Whitehall Robins Bowl of Hygeia Award is presented to one pharmacist from each province in recognition of their excellent community service which goes well beyond the call of duty; and

Whereas Valley Drug Mart's pharmacist, Sandra Penny, was recognized in September as Nova Scotia's award recipient at a ceremony in Ottawa; and

Whereas Ms. Penny's commitment to making the Annapolis Valley a better place to live is remarkable, she has lent her talents and energy to a variety of causes;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Sandra Penny for receiving the Whitehall Robins Bowl of Hygeia Award and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1373

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Eldon Taylor of West Side Lochaber, Antigonish County, has been chosen as this year's eastern region Woodlot Owner of the Year; and

Whereas Mr. Taylor has owned two woodlots, one of them over 50 years old, and has harvested over-mature spruce areas and pine plantations; and

Whereas Mr. Taylor also has some 30 hectares of Christmas trees that he established some 20 years ago upon his retirement;

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Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Eldon Taylor as this year's recipient of the eastern region Woodlot Owner of the Year.

RESOLUTION NO. 1375

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Duncan and Laurie Johnson have been involved in forestry for almost 20 years, and their experience and knowledge is obvious by the way they manage their woodlot; and

Whereas the Johnsons have worked with the Department of Natural Resources to construct a management plan for their woodlot; and

Whereas the Johnsons have also completed all the 13 home study series modules offered by the department, illustrating their commitment to sustainable forest management;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Duncan and Laurie Johnson on being the 2006 winner of the central Nova Scotia Woodlot Owner of the Year and encourage all to practice sustainable forestry management.

RESOLUTION NO. 1376

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas on October 1, 2006, the parishioners of St. Anthony's of Padua Catholic Church in Berwick celebrated their 50th Anniversary mass and ecumenical outreach fundraising effort; and

Whereas Rodina Braden and her committee planned the celebration as an opportunity to reflect on the church's history and contributions they have made to Kings County, and to hope for a future of continued growth as a faith community;

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Whereas for 50 years, St. Anthony's has been served by various priests, along with the Sisters of Notre Dame du Sacre Coeur and the Sisters of Charity, who oversaw the growth of the church and community;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate St. Anthony's of Padua as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the parish.

RESOLUTION NO. 1377

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Gerry MacMillan has had a long and distinguished career in the amateur golf world, being inducted into the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame in 2004, a seven time N.S. provincial amateur champion and the recipient of numerous other awards; and

Whereas this year, Gerry MacMillan captured the Paragon Golf and County Club Championship; and

Whereas his son, Chad MacMillan, has also accomplished a great feat, winning the junior club championship at the Paragon;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Gerry and Chad MacMillan for winning the club championship in their respective divisions and wish them both great success on and off the fairway.

RESOLUTION NO. 1378

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Cyril Angevine of Cumberland County passed away with his funeral being held on November 19, 2006; and

Whereas Cyril was not only a long-standing member of the Oxford Volunteer Fire Department but as well a past fire chief and an honorary member of the department; and

Whereas Cyril was remembered fondly at his funeral by Deputy Chief Tory Rushton by citing many stories and memories that had taken place at the fire department,

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and also by recalling all the good he did with firefighters, their families and the community;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House pay tribute to Cyril Angevine for his great vision he had at the Oxford Fire Department by initiating several programs such as the annual auction and the firefighter of the year award, and we thank his family for sharing Cyril with us and all he did for Nova Scotia during his life.

RESOLUTION NO. 1379

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas the Westchester Volunteer Fire Department will gather with friends and family on November 25, 2006, to honour those who volunteer their time and effort to the fire department; and

Whereas these men and women who protect our community through their service make great sacrifices as firefighters; and

Whereas since the community of Westchester and surrounding areas are kept safer because of the volunteer efforts of these brave men and women, they deserve our support and recognition;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the firefighters of the Westchester Fire Department and wish them all the best in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1380

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas the Wentworth Volunteer Fire Department will gather with friends and family on November 25, 2006, to honour those who volunteer their time and effort to the fire department; and

Whereas these men and women who protect our community through their service make great sacrifices as firefighters; and

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Whereas since the community of Wentworth and surrounding areas are kept safer because of the volunteer efforts of these brave men and women, they deserve our support and recognition;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the firefighters of the Wentworth Fire Department and wish them all the best in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1381

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas the Oxford Volunteer Fire Department presented paramedic Roger McCabe a plaque at their annual banquet on November 18, 2006; and

Whereas Roger McCabe was honoured for his years of supporting service to the Oxford Firefighters; and

Whereas the paramedics are an important and valued support to all fire departments and to our community and citizens throughout Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Roger McCabe on this award, and we wish him all the best in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1382

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Dean Emmerson of Oxford, a 45-year veteran of the Oxford Volunteer Fire Department not only was recognized for his years of service at a banquet on November 18th, but also as Firefighter of the Year; and

Whereas Dean was chosen as Firefighter of the Year by his peers and was also presented the traditional white fire helmet which bears the number one; and

Whereas Dean Emmerson modestly accepted several major awards and accolades during the banquet;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Dean Emmerson and his family on receiving these most-deserved awards, and we wish him continued success in all future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1383

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Stacey Rector of Oxford is one of four Cumberland County youth to receive a UNB undergraduate scholarship for study in the 2005-06 academic year; and

Whereas Stacey, an engineering student, was awarded the $2,000 Grandy, Gibson, Holmes Memorial Scholarship for her hard work and effort; and

Whereas Stacey is attending classes at the University's Fredericton Campus in New Brunswick where she is completing her studies;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Stacey Rector on this outstanding achievement, and we wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1384

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Justice)

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

Whereas Danica Deveaux of Oxford, the 16-year-old daughter of Nathalie and Chris Deveaux, has released her first CD, a collection of 12 Christmas songs titled, The Twelve Days of Christmas; and

Whereas Danica recorded her CD in Amherst in August and decided that Christmas would be a popular genre to record in; and

Whereas Danica has been performing for many years and hopes to go to Mount Allison University to obtain a major in music and then a degree in Education and teach music;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Danica Deveaux on this outstanding achievement, and we wish her continued success in all future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1385

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas Windsor dispensing optician Andrew Connolly and his wife, Rita are outstanding contributors to the Christian Aid organization Nu-Vision Ministry; and

Whereas Andrew and Rita are foster parents to three African youth and another Indonesian child, and provide optical equipment and eyeglasses to a number of developing nations in Africa; and

Whereas Andrew and Rita have donated an old lens-grinding machine, and encourage local individuals to donate old eyeglasses by dropping them off at the store on Water Street or to a local Lions Club member;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud the significant efforts of Andrew and Rita Connolly for their dedicated support to the poor and suffering children in Africa.

RESOLUTION NO. 1386

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the 14th Annual Windsor Hockey Heritage Banquet took place at Kings-Edgehill in Windsor on October 26th; and

Whereas Gypsum Mines native Kevin Harvey, son of Mr. And Mrs. Garnet Harvey of Gypsum Mines, was inducted into Windsor's Hockey Hall of Fame; and

Whereas the organizing committee of this year's banquet, chaired by local Windsor businessman, Paul Beazley, did an outstanding job in selling tickets to the corporate community and making this year's banquet one, if not the best ever held;

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Therefore be it resolved that all MLAs in this House of Assembly applaud Kevin Harvey for his induction and the efforts of the 2006 organizing committee, while wishing them every success in 2007.

RESOLUTION NO. 1387

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas the Annapolis Valley is the largest of Nova Scotia's wine regions, recognized for its long growing season and warm summers; and

Whereas the Sainte-Famille Winery of Upper Falmouth offers a unique experience toward learning about the wine industry with their annual grape-stomping contest and tours of their vineyard and winery; and

Whereas the Sainte-Famille Winery is steeped in a rich French Acadian history and has captured two awards in recent years, one at the International Eastern Wine Competition in New York for their red wine, Michurinetz, and at Intervin for their red win, Marechal Foch;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly learn about the beautiful Christmas gifts available at Sainte-Famille Wines, while applauding Doug and Suzanne Corium of Upper Falmouth for their entrepreneurship in making Sainte-Famille Wines such an economic success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1388

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas My Mother's Language is a project that aims to collect videos and recordings of native Gaelic speakers; and

Whereas project field workers, Jim Watson and Seamus MacDonald, along with Gaelic singer Mary Jane Lamond, visited the home of local residents to make recordings of their Gaelic recounting of local traditions and folklore; and

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Whereas Souter Strachan of Framboise, Richmond County, opened his home to the project workers so that they could hear and record his fluent Gaelic descriptions of lobster fishing and Sterling Mine memories;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the supporters of My Mother's Language and thank Souter Strachan for sharing his rich history and his traditional Gaelic language.

RESOLUTION NO. 1389

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas exercise is recognized as being essential for living a healthy, long life; and

Whereas Johnstown resident, Anastasia MacNeil, is living proof of the benefits of regular exercise; and

Whereas Anastasia, at the young age of 97, works out six days a week at the Kin Excel Fitness Centre in St. Peter's.

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Anastasia MacNeil on her commitment to regular exercise and wish her good health and happiness.

RESOLUTION NO. 1390

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the residents of Rocky Bay, Richmond County, gathered this summer to celebrate the first annual Rocky Bay Irish Festival; and

Whereas the festival included a breakfast, games, dinner and other activities; and

Whereas the festival was an opportunity to celebrate their Irish heritage;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the organizers and everyone who helped make the Rocky Bay Irish Festival a success.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1391

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Russell Webb has been writing and performing songs for decades; and

Whereas Russell's song, The Grass Song, an old-style country tune, will be featured in the film A Bug and a Bag of Weed; and

Whereas the film, produced by Afterdark Productions Inc. of Halifax, was featured at this year's Atlantic Film Festival;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Russell Webb on having his song, The Grass Song, hit the big screen and wish him well in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1392

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Shirley McNamara has been a long-time municipal councillor for District 5 in Richmond County; and

Whereas Shirley has been a vocal supporter of literacy and CAP sites; and

Whereas on October 10th, Councillor Shirley McNamara was acclaimed as deputy warden of Richmond County;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Shirley McNamara for her many years as a vocal representative and wish her well during her tenure as deputy warden of Richmond County.

RESOLUTION NO. 1393

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

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Whereas John Boudreau, a resident of Petit-de-Grat, Richmond County, was one of the first recipients of the Order of Nova Scotia for his work in community economic development; and

Whereas John's efforts moved to a new level in 2004 when he was elected as municipal councillor for District 2; and

Whereas on October 10th, Richmond municipal councillors elected John Boudreau as the new warden of Richmond County;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate John Boudreau for his continued leadership in the community economic development and wish him well during his tenure as warden of Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 1394

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of Liberal Party)

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

Whereas Arichat resident, Lorenzo Boudreau, is a well-known former businessman, community leader and local historian; and

Whereas Lorenzo has always had a keen interest in municipal politics; and

Whereas Lorenzo recently attended his 806th consecutive Richmond County Council meeting in October 2006 which includes regular meetings, special meetings and committee of the whole since 1982;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Lorenzo Boudreau for his impressive record of following municipal politics in Richmond county.

RESOLUTION NO. 1395

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

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Whereas the East Coast Credit Union, L'Ardoise branch, has been serving the residents of L'Ardoise and surrounding areas for many years; and

Whereas the manager, board and membership decided it was time to build a new credit union facility in the community; and

Whereas on Thursday, October 29, 2006, the membership celebrated the grand opening of the new branch;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the manager, board members and membership of the East Coast Credit Union, L'Ardoise branch, on the grand opening of their new facility.

RESOLUTION NO. 1396

By: Mr. Clarrie MacKinnon (Pictou East)

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

Whereas Nigel Bennet is an accomplished theatre and film actor, including roles in British and Canadian stages and in the Canadian made series Forever Knight and At the Hotel; and

Whereas Mr. Bennet is the co-chair of Motion Picture Industry Charitable Alliance, a charitable trust in operation for nine years, that has raised over $0.5 million; and

Whereas Mr. Bennet was nominated for his fourth Gemini Award as Best Actor for his role in At the Hotel;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Nigel Bennet, of Linacy, on his recent Gemini nomination and his commitment to the Motion Picture Industry Charitable Alliance and wish him well in the future.