November 5, 2009

HANSARD 09-36

DEBATES AND PROCEEDINGS

Speaker: Honourable Charlie Parker

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/

First Session

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
Development: Citadel Hill - Blockage, Mr. H. Epstein 2352
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
Law Amendments Committee, Hon. R. Landry 2352
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS:
PSC - Moving Toward Equity, Hon. F. Corbett 2353
Ombudsman's Office Anl. Rept. (2008-2009), Hon. C. Parker ~ 2353
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1122, Legislative Staff - Salute,
The Premier 2353
Vote - Affirmative 2354
Res. 1123, Mermaid Theatre: Success - Congrats.,
Hon. P. Paris 2354
Vote - Affirmative 2355
Res. 1124, IWK Health Ctr. - Anniv. (100th),
Hon. Maureen MacDonald (by Hon. M. More) 2355
Vote - Affirmative 2356
Res. 1125, Falkenham, Michael & Dianne: Christmas Tree Wall of Fame -
Induction, Hon. J. MacDonell 2356
Vote - Affirmative 2357
Res. 1126, Medical Radiation Technologists: Contribution -
Recognize, Hon. Maureen MacDonald (by Hon. W. Estabrooks) 2357
Vote - Affirmative 2358
Vote - Affirmative
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1127, Kehoe, George - Sch. Bd. Member of Yr. Award,
Hon. M. Samson 2358
Vote - Affirmative 2359
Res. 1128, Nash, Les - N.S./Nunavut Command RCL Pres.:
Warmest Wishes - Extend, Hon. K. Casey 2359
Vote - Affirmative 2360
Res. 1129, Horn, Katie: Ryl. Agricultural Winter Fair Mar. Rep.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 2360
Vote - Affirmative 2361
Res. 1130, Caregiver Allowance Prog.: Current Info. - Provide,
Ms. D. Whalen 2361
Res. 1131, ERs: 24/7 Operation - Campaign Promise,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2362
Res. 1132, McNeil, Joseph: Bio Talent Challenge - Congrats.,
Hon. M. Samson 2362
Vote - Affirmative 2363
Res. 1133, House of Assembly Pages/Staff: Thanks - Extend,
Hon. C. Clarke 2363
Vote - Affirmative 2364
Res. 1134, O'Dor, Ron - Cdn. Geographic Award,
Hon. S. Belliveau 2364
Vote - Affirmative 2365
Res. 1135, Wilson, David A.: Birthday (30th) - Wishes Extend,
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 2365
Vote - Affirmative 2365
Res. 1136, MacLeod, Alistair: No Great Mischief - Greatest Atl. Cdn. Bk.
Mr. A. MacLeod 2366
Vote - Affirmative 2366
Res. 1137, Capital Dist. Navigator Prog.: Participants - Congrats.,
Mr. L. Preyra 2366
Vote - Affirmative 2367
Res. 1138, Samson, Claudine et Michel: Satine Lucille Jeanne -
Félicitations à l'occasion d'une naissance, Hon. W. Gaudet 2367
Vote - Affirmative 2368
Res. 1139, Cdn. Military: Past & Present - Tribute Pay,
Hon. M. Scott 2368
Vote - Affirmative 2369
Res. 1140, Above & Beyond Because We Care: Enriching Lives
Everyday Campaign - Recognize, Ms. V. Conrad 2369
Vote - Affirmative 2370
Res. 1141, Turkey Club: Members/Bd./Donors/Vols. - Congrats.,
Ms. K. Regan 2370
Vote - Affirmative 2371
Res. 1142, McDade, Amy: Achievement - Congrats.,
Mr. C. Porter 2371
Vote - Affirmative 2372
Res. 1143, Look Ho Ho Rest. - Anniv. (50th),
Mr. H. Epstein 2372
Vote - Affirmative 2372
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
Private and Local Bills Committee, Ms. M. Raymond 2373
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1144, Devries, Joyce - "Made in Canada" Marketing Strategy,
Mr. H. Theriault 2373
Vote - Affirmative 2374
Res. 1145, Colburn, Tim: Commun. Contributions - Congrats.,
Hon. K. Casey 2374
Vote - Affirmative 2375
Res. 1146, Woodford, Sandra: Lun. Queens Vol. Partnership -
Recognition, Ms. V. Conrad 2375
Vote - Affirmative 2376
Res. 1147, Boissonault, Mme Huberte et Famille: Livre des records mondiaux
Guinness - Inclusion, Hon. W. Gaudet 2376
Vote - Affirmative 2377
Res. 1148, Rankin Highlanders HS Soccer Team: Coach/Assistant
Contribution, Mr. K. Bain 2377
Vote - Affirmative 2378
Res. 1149, Tipert, Sean Robert: Death of - Tribute,
Mr. G. Ramey 2378
Vote - Affirmative 2379
Res. 1150, Lamb, Margie & Jim - Pork Production: Expansion -
Congrats., Mr. L. Glavine 2379
Vote - Affirmative 2379
Res. 1151, Health: Shelburne ERS - Closures,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2380
Res. 1152, RCL Br. 45 - Thank,
Hon. M. Scott 2380
Vote - Affirmative 2381
Res. 1153, C.B. Cancer Centre: Commun. Fundraisers - Congrats.,
Hon. C. Clarke 2381
Vote - Affirmative 2382
Res. 1154, MacLean, Marlene: Strait Area Chamber of Commerce - Award,
Mr. K. Bain 2382
Vote - Affirmative 2383
Res. 1155, Adams, Stephanie: Remembrance Day Essay - Applaud,
Mr. C. Porter 2383
Vote - Affirmative 2384
ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS:
No. 309, Prem.: H1N1 Vaccine - Rollout Plan,
Hon. S. McNeil 2384
No. 310, LWD - H1N1: Impact - Min. Information Plans,
Hon. K. Casey 2385
No. 311, ERs: Closures - Election Promises,
Hon. S. McNeil 2387
No. 312, Health: Physician Retirements - Recruitment/Retention,
Mr. L. Glavine 2388
No. 313, Prem.: Donkin Mine Emission - Offsets,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2389
No. 314, Health: H1N1 Vaccine - Inmates,
Hon. K. Colwell 2391
No. 315, Prem.: Springhill Correctional Facility - Commitment Honour,
Hon. M. Scott 2392
No. 316, Nat. Res.: Valleyview Pk. - Closure Schedule (2010),
Hon. S. McNeil 2393
No. 317, ERD: Hants West - High-Speed Internet,
Mr. C. Porter 2394
No. 318, ERD - Aliant (C.B.): Job Losses - Prevention,
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 2395
No. 319, ERD: Woodside Industrial Pk. - Land Transactions,
Mr. A. Younger 2396
No. 320, ERD: Legions/Commun. Ctrs. - Fin. Assistance,
Mr. K. Bain 2397
No. 321, Prem.: Digby-Saint John Ferry Serv. - Assist,
Mr. H. Theriault 2399
No. 322, Prem. - Starlink Aviation: Gov't. Purchasing - Details,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2400
No. 323, ERD: Yarmouth Ferry Serv. - Assistance,
Hon. W. Gaudet 2402
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS:
Involuntary Psychiatric Treatment Act Review Bd. Anl. Rept.,
Hon. Maureen MacDonald 2402
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 3:05 P.M. 2403
CWH REPORTS 2403
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 3:09 P.M. 2403
PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 45, Canning Library and Heritage Centre Exemption Act 2404
Vote - Affirmative 2404
No. 50, Wilderness Areas Protection Act 2404
Vote - Affirmative 2406
HOUSE RECESSED AT 3:26 P.M. 2406
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 3:53 P.M. 2406
ARRIVAL OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR 2406
BILLS GIVEN ROYAL ASSENT:
Nos. 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 34,
38, 39, 40 2407
Nos. 42, 44, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 54 2408
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again at the call of the Speaker 2409
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Res. 1156, Smith, Chrissy: Olympic Torchbearer - Congrats.,
Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay) 2410
Res. 1157, Hayes, Daryl: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2410
Res. 1158, Tibbo, Bryan: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2411
Res. 1159, Bonang, Leon: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2411
Res. 1160, Conrod, Robert: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2412
Res. 1161, Laybolt, Robert: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2412
Res. 1162, Keizer, Donald: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2413
Res. 1163, Mannette, Francis: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2413
Res. 1164, Baker, Darrel: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2414
Res. 1165, Legere, Margo: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2414
Res. 1166, Campbell, Richard: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2415
Res. 1167, Cole, Daniel: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2415
Res. 1168, George, Herbert: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2416
Res. 1169, George, Lorna: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2416
Res. 1170, McCurdy, Darrell: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2417
Res. 1171, Page, Sheldon: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2417
Res. 1172, Prentice, Colleen: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2418
Res. 1173, Webber, Bruce: E. Shore Ground Search & Rescue -
Commitment, Hon. K. Colwell 2418
Res. 1174, Upham, Myron & Nancy/M.U. Rhino Renovations -
Truro & Dist. Chamber of Commerce Award,
Hon. K. Casey 2419
Res. 1175, MacDonald, Hon. Rodney - Commun./Prov.: Contribution -
Acknowledge Hon. K. Casey 2419
Res. 1176, Garderie Familiale de Clare - 25e anniversaire,
Hon. W. Gaudet 2420
Res. 1177, Strait United U-14 tier 2B Girls Soccer Team - Congrats.,
Hon. C. d'Entremont 2421
Res. 1178, Tooker, Rose: Vol. of Wk. - Congrats.,
Hon. K. Casey 2421
Res. 1179, Belliveau, Mike/Mike's Foodland: Cdn. Mental Health Assoc. -
Recognition, Hon. K. Casey 2422
Res. 1180, Bonnyman, Sara: Bus. Success - Congrats.,
Hon. K. Casey 2422
Res. 1181, Grant, Gary - PSC Long-Serv. Award (25 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2423
Res. 1182, Green, Philip - PSC Long-Serv. Award (25 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2423
Res. 1183, Armsworth, Adrian - PSC Long-Serv. Award (25 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2424
Res. 1184, Olson, Randall A. - PSC Long-Serv. Award (25 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2424
Res. 1185, Crouse, Elizabeth Ann - PSC Long-Serv. Award (30 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2425
Res. 1186, MacRae, Darrell - PSC Long-Serv. Award (30 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2425
Res. 1187, Chapman, Penny - PSC Long-Serv. Award (25 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2426
Res. 1188, Yorke, Eileen Linda - PSC Long-Serv. Award (30 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2426
Res. 1189, Langille, B. Wade - PSC Long-Serv. Award (35 Yrs.),
Hon. K. Casey 2427
Res. 1190, RCL Br. 53 - Thank,
Mr. K. Bain 2427
Res. 1191, RCL Br. 124 - Thank,
Mr. K. Bain 2428
Res. 1192, RCL Br. 105 - Thank,
Mr. K. Bain 2428
Res. 1193, Woodworth, Frank/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2429
Res. 1194, Prall, John/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2429
Res. 1195, Collins, Ian/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2430
Res. 1196, Pye, Sib/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2430
Res. 1197, Halbersma, Justin/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2430
Res. 1198, Gallery, Gary/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2431
Res. 1199, Spinney, Jamie/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2431
Res. 1200, Kendall, Colin/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2432
Res. 1201, Chisholm, Donald/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2432
Res. 1202, Bezanson, Corey/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2433
Res. 1203, Bower, Chad/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2433
Res. 1204, Connell, Brad/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2433
Res. 1205, Diggins, Jarret/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2434
Res. 1206, Spidle, Kevin/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2434
Res. 1207, Sweet, Mike/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2435
Res. 1208, Gallery, Mark/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2435
Res. 1209, Tracey, Jeremy/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2436
Res. 1210, Brewster, Colin/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2436
Res. 1211, Lutz, Craig/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2436
Res. 1212, Tracey, Jody/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2437
Res. 1213, Johnson, Chris/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2437
Res. 1214, Aalders, Charlie/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2438
Res. 1215, Salsman, Chris/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2438
Res. 1216, Carty, Brad/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2439
Res. 1217, Comeau, Adrian/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2439
Res. 1218, Hart, Matt/Central Kings Gators HS Hockey Team
(1993-94): Berwick Sports Hall of Fame - Induction,
Mr. L. Glavine 2439
Res. 1219, RCL Br. 19 - Thank,
Hon. C. Clarke 2440
Res. 1220, RCL Br. 8 - Thank,
Hon. C. Clarke 2440
Res. 1221, RCL Br. 83 - Thank,
Hon. C. Clarke 2441
Res. 1222, 29 Sydney Kiwanis Ryl. Cdn. Air Cadets: Halloween Kids Fair -
Congrats., Mr. A. MacLeod 2441
Res. 1223, McLean, Larry/Maritime Inn - Bus. Excellence Award,
Mr. K. Bain 2442
Res. 1224, Schmidt, Ron & Joanne - Export Achievement Award,
Mr. K. Bain 2442
Res. 1225, Hennessey, Dan/Reeves-Horton, Tim/Veterans -
"A Time To Remember", Hon. R. Hurlburt 2443
Res. 1226, Brown, Lisa - Natl. MADD Media Award,
Hon. R. Hurlburt 2443
Res. 1227, Archibald, Gary - Horrocks Library Award,
Hon. R. Hurlburt 2444
Res. 1228, Roy, Cecil: Shelburne Car Show - Acknowledge,
Hon. R. Hurlburt 2444
Res. 1229, Hamilton, Caitlynn - Yarmouth Hosp. Fdn. Scholarship,
Hon. R. Hurlburt 2445
Res. 1230, Yarmouth Clippers: N.S. U-14 tier 2 B Soccer Championship -
Congrats., Hon. R. Hurlburt 2445
Res. 1231, Richmond Rize U-18 Girls Volleyball Team: Success -
Wish, Hon. M. Samson 2446
Res. 1232, Richmond Acad. Hurricane Boys Softball Team -
Championship, Hon. M. Samson 2446
Res. 1233, Richmond Acad. Hurricane Girls Softball Team -
Championship, Hon. M. Samson 2447
Res. 1234, Petit-de-Grat Red Caps - Baseball Award,
Hon. M. Samson 2447
Res. 1235, Landry, Dylan: Can. Games - Participation,
Hon. M. Samson 2448
Res. 1236, South Mountain Arm of Gold Assoc. - Lt.-Gov.'s Award,
Hon. M. Samson 2448
Res. 1237, Campbell, Leah/MacQuarrie, Taylor/Matthews, Micala -
ScotDance Can. Championships, Hon. M. Samson 2449
Res. 1238, W. Richmond Educ. Ctr. "Green Team" - Recycling Cert.,
Hon. M. Samson 2449
Res. 1239, MacNeil, Dr. Lawrence - Rural Physician of Yr. Award,
Hon. M. Samson 2450
Res. 1240, Enterprise Cape Breton: Brazil Trade Mission - Support,
Hon. C. Clarke 2450
Res. 1241, St. Stephen's Fall Fairs (Florence) - Anniv. (25th),
Hon. C. Clarke 2451
Res. 1242, RCL Br. 17 - Thank,
Hon. M. Scott 2451
Res. 1243, RCL Br. 134 - Thank,
Hon. M. Scott 2452
Res. 1244, RCL Br. 36 - Thank,
Hon. M. Scott 2452
Res. 1245, RCL Br. 4 - Thank,
Hon. M. Scott 2453
Res. 1246, RCL Br. 14 - Thank,
Hon. M. Scott 2453
Res. 1247, Anjoul, Sam & Anna: Work/Dedication - Congrats.,
Hon. M. Scott 2454
Res. 1248, RCL Br. 151 - Thank,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2454
Res. 1249, RCL Br. 12 - Thank,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2455
Res. 1250, RCL Br. 05 - Thank,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2455
Res. 1251, RCL Br. 55 - Thank,
Mr. A. MacLeod 2456
Res. 1252, Dawson, Kaitlyn - Gold Medal,
Mr. B. Skabar 2456
Res. 1253, Fanning Educ. Ctr. (Grade 3/4 Class) -
Square Foot Garden Proj., Mr. J. Boudreau 2457
Res. 1254, Cook, Fraser/Fam.: Cook's Café - Opening Congrats.,
Mr. J. Boudreau 2457
Res. 1255, Boudreau, Fr. Daniel: Spiritual Support/Serv. -
Recognize, Mr. J. Boudreau 2458
Res. 1256, Hfx. Walk for Muscular Dystrophy - Dedication:
Comm. Members - Thank, Ms. B. Kent 2458
Res. 1257, Conrad, Grace: Death of - Tribute,
Hon. J. MacDonell 2459
Res. 1258, "A Time To Remember" CD Proj.: Organizers -
Congrats., Mr. G. Ramey 2460
Res. 1259, MacAuley, Jan - Hfx. Chamber of Commerce Award,
Ms. D. Whalen 2460
Res. 1260, Bragg Group - N.S. Fam. Enterprise of Yr.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2461
Res. 1261, Diabetes Awareness Mo. (11/09) - Acknowledge,
Ms. D. Whalen 2461
Res. 1262, Linders, Christine - Educ.: Contributions - Congrats,
Ms. D. Whalen 2462
Res. 1263, Turner, Jean: Commun. Contributions - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2462
Res. 1264, Arab, Laura: Commun. Contributions - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2463
Res. 1265, Leader, Pat: Commun. Contributions - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2463
Res. 1266, Kelly, Shelley - Educ.: Contributions - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2464
Res. 1267, Ball, Sherri - Educ.: Contributions - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2464
Res. 1268, Waller, Jack: Olympic Torchbearer - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2465
Res. 1269, Anderson, Keith: Mental Health - Public Understanding,
Ms. D. Whalen 2465
Res. 1270, Queen, Alyson - FUSION: Contribution - Congrats.,
Ms. D. Whalen 2466
NOTICES OF QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN ANSWERS:
No. 2, Fin.: Securities Matters - Fines Levied, Mr. C. Porter 2466
No. 3, Agric.: Beef Farmers - Issues, Mr. C. Porter 2467
No. 4, Energy: Québec Hydro/N.B. Power: Atl. Energy Gateway,
Mr. C. Porter 2467
No. 5, Educ. - Grade 12 Math Exam Results, Hon. K. Casey 2467

[Page 2351]

HALIFAX, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2009

Sixty-first General Assembly

First Session

1:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Charlie Parker

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Mr. Gordon Gosse, Hon. Wayne Gaudet, Mr. Alfie MacLeod

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. I'll ask all members to take their seats. Before we get underway today with our daily routine, honourable members, I'd like to draw your attention to a well-known public servant in my gallery this afternoon who also happens to be a constituent of mine.

I want to introduce Colleen MacDonald, our Chief of Protocol for the Province of Nova Scotia. Colleen will be retiring soon from her position next month. She's been a long and faithful servant of the government, working as Chief of Protocol since 1994. Prior to that she worked for the Leader of the Opposition and then served as executive assistant to the Premier in 1993.

In her role as Chief of Protocol she has organized numerous Royal Visits, the Halifax G-7 meeting in 1995, and other meetings of world leaders. Until recently the Protocol Office had responsibility for Legislative events. In previous years she has overseen preparations for Parliamentary Conferences, Legislative ceremonies and hospitality. Colleen's preparations were always done in great detail and, as a result, always got the province in a good light.

[Page 2352]

2351

Colleen, I'd like to extend our thanks to you and wish you well in your retirement. I'll ask members of the House to give her a warm round of applause. (Standing Ovation) Thank you very much.

We'll now begin the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, thank you very much. I wish to present a petition signed by 352 persons, the operative clause of which reads:

". . . I urge you not to use public funds to allow a private developer to block the view of the centre harbour and George's Island from Citadel Hill."

Members will know that this same text of a petition was signed by 799 persons previously and it is presented by the Coalition to Save the View.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. ROSS LANDRY: Mr. Speaker, as Chairman of the Committee on Law Amendments, I am directed to report that the committee has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 50 - Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

and the committee recommends this bill to the favourable consideration of the House, with certain amendments.

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

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of the Public Service Commission.

[Page 2353]

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I would like to table a report entitled Diversity, Moving Toward Equity, Employment Equity and Diversity in the Nova Scotia Public Service, 2008-2009.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

I also, as Speaker, wish to table the Office of the Ombudsman 2008-2009 Annual Report.

The report is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

[1:15 p.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 1122

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

Whereas our legislative sessions run smoothly thanks only to the amazing staff who operate within and outside the Chamber; and

Whereas this includes the hard-working Legislative Counsel staff, the staff of the Speaker's Office, the efficient Hansard and Legislative Library personnel, the tireless Pages and their managers - Michael and Peter, the staff of Legislative Television, and the faithful advisers in the Clerk's Office; and

Whereas those behind the scenes who keep things moving also include the loyal staff in all three caucus offices and the Premier's Office, as well as the Legislative Committees Office, along with the tremendous efforts of both the catering and cleaning staff in the Legislature - all kept in line by the diligent Commissionaires and Sergeant-at-Arms;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House salute these fantastic individuals and teams who ensure that the work of this historic Chamber runs orderly and effectively regardless of the hour of day or the task at hand, and wish them all a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday and all the best in 2010.

[Page 2354]

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. 1123

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

Whereas Windsor's Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia has been successfully developing and touring theatrical productions for children for more than 37 years in Canada and internationally, and has become globally recognized for its fine work; and

Whereas Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia has performed for a worldwide audience estimated at four million people; and

Whereas this Fall Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia is maintaining an ambitious schedule with three separate companies touring simultaneously in the United States and the Far East, with two plays being presented in the United States and one to audiences in Singapore;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia on its tremendous success as a theatre company and for raising Nova Scotia's profile as a cultural exporter of fine theatrical entertainment.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 2355]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Education.

HON. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, I would like to make an introduction and then read a resolution on behalf of my colleague, the Minister of Health.

MR. SPEAKER: Certainly.

MS. MORE: In the east gallery we have - and please stand as I call your name - Dr. Alex Gillis, who is head of the IWK Centennial celebrations, a former CEO of the IWK and former chief of surgery for the IWK and the Halifax Children's Hospital; and also Dr. Richard Goldbloom, professor of pediatrics at the IWK, and Chancellor Emeritus of Dalhousie University, former physician in chief and head of research for the IWK. I would ask everyone to give them a warm welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Education.

RESOLUTION NO. 1124

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

Whereas the IWK Health Centre provides quality care to women, children, youth, and families in the Maritime Provinces and beyond, and on December 20, 1909, the Halifax Children's Hospital first opened its doors to children and families of the Maritimes; and

Whereas over the course of 100 years the IWK and its predecessors, the Halifax Children's Hospital, the Salvation Army Grace Maternity Hospital, and the Izaak Walton Killam Hospital for Children, have shared a commitment to excellence in care, teaching and research; and

Whereas throughout 2009 the IWK Health Centre is celebrating this vibrant history and tradition of excellence while looking forward to how it will grow and excel in the next 100 years;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House recognize December 20th as the Centennial Anniversary of the IWK Health Centre and acknowledge the critical role the IWK has played, and will continue to play, in the health and wellness of the Maritime community.

[Page 2356]

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 Natural Resources.

RESOLUTION NO. 1125

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

Whereas the Christmas tree industry in Nova Scotia and its 2,500 growers produce 1.5 million to 2 million Christmas trees annually, valued at $35 million to $40 million, and employ 3,000 seasonal and full-time workers, contributing significantly to the social and economic well-being of our province; and

Whereas Christmas tree growers form an important part of the social fabric in many rural Nova Scotia communities and provide consumers with a green alternative for their homes at Christmas; and

Whereas Michael and Dianne Falkenham of northwest Lunenburg County have been inducted into the Christmas Tree Wall of Fame by the Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers Association;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House acknowledge the outstanding lifetime achievement of Michael and Dianne Falkenham and thank them for their social, economic, and environmental contribution to rural Nova Scotian communities.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 2357]

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 Infrastructure Renewal.

HON. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I would like to have your permission to do an introduction on behalf of my colleague, the Minister of Health, and then I have a resolution to follow.

Mr. Speaker, in the gallery today there are two members of the medical radiation technology profession in Nova Scotia, and as I read their names I would ask them to stand. Karren Fader is a nuclear medicine technologist and educator. She works at the QE II/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences and is president of the Nova Scotia Association of Medical Radiation Technologists. With Karren is Carol-Anne Davis. Ms. Davis is a radiation therapist and clinical educator at the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre. She is also the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists board member for Nova Scotia. I would like to welcome Karren and Carol-Anne here today, and let's welcome them to our House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

RESOLUTION NO. 1126

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

Whereas next week is Medical Radiation Technologists Week in Canada, coinciding with the anniversary of the discovery of X-rays on November 8, 1895; and

Whereas medical radiation technologists are highly-skilled health care professionals in radiological technology, nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy, and magnetic resonance imaging, providing a vital link between technology and patient care; and

Whereas medical radiation technologists are celebrating the week by talking about "The Power of Technology With a Human Touch";

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing the important contribution in health care delivery by medical radiation technologists in Nova Scotia.

[Page 2358]

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 Cumberland South.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring the attention of the House to a gentleman in the Speaker's Gallery: the Mayor of Springhill, His Worship Allen Dill, who is here for the UNSM meetings at the Westin, along with many of his colleagues from throughout the province. I would ask Mayor Dill to rise and receive a warm welcome from the House. (Applause)

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 1127

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

Whereas Strait Regional School Board member George Kehoe received the 2009 School Board Member of the Year Award; and

Whereas George Kehoe was named first vice-president of the Strait Regional School Board; and

Whereas George Kehoe earned a long-service award for his 15 years with the Strait Regional School Board and the former Richmond District School Board;

[Page 2359]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize George Kehoe as a valuable member of the Strait Regional School Board and congratulate him on his recent awards.

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 Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, with your permission I would like to do an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER: Absolutely.

MS. CASEY: In the gallery opposite I would like to introduce another councillor who's here in Halifax for the UNSM meetings, Tom Taggart. Tom is the owner of Taggart Quality Hardwood with a factory in Debert and a retail store in Truro. He was recently elected in the last municipal election as a councillor to represent the best part of Colchester County, I guess, which would be my home area of west Colchester, along the shore. I would like to welcome Tom to the House today and ask everybody to give Tom a warm welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 1128

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

Whereas today marks the beginning of Veterans' Week across Canada with this year's theme being "How will you Remember?"; and

[Page 2360]

Whereas there are 124 branches of the Royal Canadian Legion across Nova Scotia that will be actively participating in Veterans' Week; and

Whereas today in this country there are 591,000 modern-day veterans with their average age being 54, and 163,450 World War II veterans with an average age of 86;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly extend our warmest wishes to Les Nash, president of the Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of the Royal Canadian Legion, as we begin a period of remembrance of those who have served our country so valiantly and those who continue to serve today.

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. 1129

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

Whereas on Friday, November 6, 2009, Katie Horn, a Grade 9 Chester Area Middle School student, will be selected to represent the Maritimes at the Royal Agriculture Winter Fair in Toronto; and

Whereas Katie, who has been riding horses for about seven years, is very dedicated and rides four to five times a week; and

Whereas only three years ago Katie started competing and won the Apollo Jewels Hunter Classic at the Maritime Fall Fair;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Katie Horn on being selected to represent the Maritimes and wish her the best of luck in Toronto.

[Page 2361]

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.

RESOLUTION NO. 1130

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

Whereas while in Opposition, this NDP Government spoke fondly of the need to help keep people in their homes and out of institutions for as long as possible; and

Whereas the rollout of the Caregiver Allowance Program is yet another plan executed by this government which has created both confusion and disappointment amongst Nova Scotians; and

Whereas the Minister of Health has failed to be accountable by ignoring calls for up-to-date basic statistics around the number of applicants and approve clients for the program by district health authority;

Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Health practise what she preached while in Opposition and provide current up-to-date information around the Caregiver Allowance Program.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 2362]

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Argyle.

RESOLUTION NO. 1131

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

Whereas the Premier made the bold campaign promise of keeping all emergency rooms open knowing the challenge we face in finding doctors and nurses to fill all emergency room shifts; and

Whereas the NDP Government used the Deputy Minister of Health to lay the groundwork to break the NDP election promise to keep all emergency rooms open 24/7; and

Whereas the NDP Government has been governing for 139 days;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier keep his campaign promise of keeping all emergency rooms open or admit that he misled Nova Scotians in order to become government.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[1:30 p.m.]

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 1132

[Page 2363]

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

Whereas Joseph McNeil, a recent graduate of Richmond Academy, participated at the National Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge, which is intended to raise awareness about the emerging science of biotechnology and its applications in health care, agriculture, and the environment; and

Whereas Joseph McNeil's project, Tea as an Aid in Neuronal Growth, took second place at the National Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge; and

Whereas Tea as an Aid in Neuronal Growth has opened a new line of investigation into amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Joseph McNeil for his outstanding research and second-place win at the National Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge, while wishing 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 Cape Breton North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1133

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

Whereas each sitting of the Legislature cannot possibly occur without the commitment, skill and dedication of valued staff from operations, Legislative Council, clerks, library, Legislative Television, security, maintenance, catering and support services; and

[Page 2364]

Whereas the House of Assembly benefits from the daily enthusiasm, drive and courtesy of our Pages who work tirelessly to enable members and staff to effectively work and achieve legislative outcomes on behalf of all Nova Scotians; and

Whereas the current sitting of the House will come to a close, but it should not do so without first extending thanks and appreciation to our Pages and all staff who contribute to our success and work as legislators;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to our Pages and staff for their patience and dedication, wishing them well until next we meet to continue with the subdued, quiet and pleasant work of the people.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried. (Standing Ovation)

The honourable member for Shelburne.

RESOLUTION NO. 1134

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

Whereas Dr. Ron O'Dor was awarded the Canadian Geographic 2009 Environmental Scientist of the Year Award for his life's work and for managing the historic Census of Marine Life; and

Whereas Ron O'Dor, a biology professor at Dalhousie University in Halifax, is the chief science officer for the Census of Marine Life, a 10-year, 82-nation project to gauge and record the diversity, distribution and abundance of life in the world's oceans; and

Whereas Ron O'Dor has been assisting more than 2,000 scientists involved in 17 projects and helping with hundreds of questions from sponsors and partners around the world;

[Page 2365]

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Ron O'Dor for his Canadian Geographic 2009 Environmental Scientist of the Year Award, with very best wishes for the successful completion of the Census of Marine Life in 2010.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Glace Bay.

RESOLUTION NO. 1135

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

Whereas there are two David Wilsons in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly; and

Whereas one of those David Wilsons celebrated a birthday yesterday, but did not receive a congratulatory resolution from the other David Wilson; and

Whereas since I am not the type of person to hold a grudge and think only negative thoughts;

Therefore be it resolved that I, and all members of the House of Assembly, would like to wish David A. Wilson a happy 39th birthday today, and remind him not to forget the other David Wilson next year. (Applause)

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 2366]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1136

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

Whereas Canadian literary icon and Dunvegan, Inverness County native, Alistair MacLeod, recently added yet another honour to his impressive book of accolades; and

Whereas Dr. MacLeod's 1999 publication, No Great Mischief, has been named the greatest Atlantic Canadian book of all time; and

Whereas the contribution that Dr. MacLeod's writing has made to education and culture in this province over the past several decades truly cannot be measured, and therefore is a deserving recipient of this very impressive honour;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Alistair MacLeod for his book, No Great Mischief, being named greatest Atlantic Canadian book of all time and wish him continued success in his 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 member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

[Page 2367]

RESOLUTION NO. 1137

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

Whereas the Capital District Navigator Program was established to identify the basic needs and challenges of street-involved individuals, and to help them get access to essential social services and service providers; and

Whereas the Navigator Program was developed by the Spring Garden Area Business Association, the Downtown Halifax Business Commission and the Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission, with the support of the Halifax Regional Municipality and the Nova Scotia Department of Justice; and

Whereas the Navigator Program has successfully connected many marginalized individuals to much needed services, and was cited by the 2009 National Communities in Bloom competition for developing better communities;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Tommy Boutilier, the Capital District Navigator, the Spring Garden Area Business Association, the Downtown Halifax Business Commission, the Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission, the Halifax Regional Municipality, the Nova Scotia Department of Justice and all those individuals and organizations on being recognized for their commitment to the Navigator Project and for helping street-involved populations in downtown Halifax and Dartmouth.

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. 1138

[Page 2368]

HON. WAYNE GAUDET: M.le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que à 13 h 55 le mardi 15 septembre 2009, bébé Satine Lucille Jeanne Samson est née;

Attendu que bébé Satine, prématurée de dix semaines et pesant deux livres onze onces à sa naissance, a dû rester à l'unité néonatale des soins intensifs du centre de santé IWK pendant 40 jours;

Attendu que le lundi 26 octobre 2009, bébé Satine est rentréé à la maison avec ses parents, Claudine Bardsley-Samson et Michel P. Samson, député de Richmond;

Par conséquent, il est résolu que les membres de cette Assemblée félicitent Claudine et Michel Samson pour la naissance de leur premier enfant, Satine Lucille Jeanne, et leur souhaitent de nombreuses années de santé, de bonheur et de merveilleux souvenirs.

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

Whereas at 1:55 p.m. Tuesday, September 15, 2009, a baby girl, Satine Lucille Jeanne Samson was born; and

Whereas weighing in at two pounds 11 ounces, baby Satine was 10 weeks premature, requiring a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the IWK Hospital, for 40 days; and

Whereas on Monday, October 26, 2009, baby Satine arrived home to her loving parents, Claudine Bardsley-Samson and Michel P. Samson, the honourable member for Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Claudine and Michel Samson on the birth of their first child, Satine Lucille Jeanne, and wish them many years of good health, happiness, and fond memories.

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 2369]

The motion is carried. (Standing Ovation)

Congratulations.

The honourable member for Cumberland South.

RESOLUTION NO. 1139

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

Whereas residents of Advocate Harbour, standing alongside veterans, will gather on Sunday, November 8th, to remember those brave Canadians who gave their lives for world peace; and

Whereas tribute will be paid as well to those soldiers who returned, many of whom were changed forever, and to their families who paid a huge price as well; and

Whereas we need to ensure that the Canadians who serve in the military, both past and present, are always on our minds, not only at this time of the year but also throughout the entire year;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

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. 1140

[Page 2370]

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

Whereas continuing care represents an integral component of our health care system, be it nursing homes, home care organizations, or group and small option homes; and

Whereas continuing care providers are also active in their communities, delivering programs for people of all ages, depending on their identified needs; and

Whereas this sector is growing, and the contribution of their employees and volunteers help many to live their lives to the fullest in the place they call home;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize the Above and Beyond Because We Care: Enriching Lives Everyday campaign, which took place during the month of September 2009, and in particular all of the employees and volunteers in Queens.

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 Bedford-Birch Cove.

RESOLUTION NO. 1141

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

Whereas the Turkey Club Society was founded in 2004 to help raise money to support charitable organizations in the Halifax Regional Municipality, so that less fortunate families can enjoy a Christmas dinner and a brighter holiday season; and

Whereas in 2008, the Turkey Club donated $57,500 to local charities including but not limited to: Hope Cottage, the Home of the Guardian Angel, Adsum House, both the North Dartmouth and Sackville Boys and Girls Clubs, and Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank; and

[Page 2371]

Whereas volunteers of the Turkey Club will solicit donations from the public at the Light up Bedford Parade on November 22, 2009, and throughout the period leading up to Christmas;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the Turkey Club, its chairman Jack Cruickshank, its board, donors, and volunteers for making the holiday season brighter for many needy families and wish them well in 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 member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1142

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

Whereas Amy McDade of Brooklyn has an impressive athletic ability and is active in hockey and baseball, among other sports; and

Whereas Amy holds the impressive distinction of being the first, and only, female to play football in Hants County, playing both offence and defence for the Windsor Warlords Atom team; and

Whereas Amy serves as a trailblazer for females, as she has now broken down the barriers which will, ultimately, lead to greater female participation in all organized sport;

Therefore be it resolved that all members in this House of Assembly congratulate Amy McDade of Brooklyn on achieving this impressive first, and encourage her to approach

[Page 2372]

all aspects of her life with the same can-do attitude, as it will lead to success in all her 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.

[1:45 p.m.]

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 1143

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

Whereas generations of Haligonians have enjoyed good food and created warm memories at Look Ho Ho restaurant on Bayers Road, enjoying as many as 3,000 of their famous egg rolls each week; and

Whereas small business is a cornerstone of the Nova Scotian economy deserving of acknowledgment; and

Whereas the management and staff of Look Ho Ho restaurant are celebrating their 50th Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that this House join me in congratulating the management and staff of Look Ho Ho restaurant on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary and wish them continued success in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 2373]

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, may we 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 Halifax Atlantic.

MS. MICHELE RAYMOND: 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. 45 - Canning Library and Heritage Centre Exemption Act.

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

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 1144

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

[Page 2374]

Whereas Joyce Devries, owner of the Icehouse Gift Shop on Brier Island, began to notice that her customers were setting aside moderately priced T-shirts when they saw the label identifying the product as made in China; and

Whereas visitors were attracted to Brier Island in the first place for its emphasis on eco-tourism and also interested in eco-friendly merchandise; and

Whereas Joyce began selling made-in-Canada T-shirts and her strategy is beginning to pay off as customers see the label and feel the softness and heavier weight of the fabric and their choice becomes easier;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly applaud Joyce Devries for her made-in-Canada marketing strategy and for showing us that small business can make a difference in economic development in this province and this country.

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 Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and with your permission, I would like to do an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER: Certainly.

MS. CASEY: If I could draw people's attention to the gallery opposite, I would like to introduce another councillor, Raymond Tynes. Perhaps, Raymond, you could stand up. Raymond is also in the city for the UNSM meetings. Raymond is a member of the Truro Town Council, has been a member for a number of years, serves on many committees on the Truro Town Council. I'd like to say that my first opportunity to work with Raymond was when he was a member of the school board. I was a senior staff member and I have to tell you that he always respected my position and supported me around the table, so welcome to Raymond. (Applause)

[Page 2375]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 1145

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

Whereas volunteers are the cornerstones of Nova Scotia's town and villages and make our communities richer, healthier and happier places for the people who live and work there; and

Whereas Tim Colburn, a Colchester North firefighter and paramedic, has been dedicated to protecting the community and its residents for the past 22 years; and

Whereas Tim's many other activities include working with school children to promote the prevention of fire, doing equipment demonstrations and hosting tours of the brigade and volunteering with many organizations such as Scouts Canada, North Shore ATV Club, North Shore Search and Rescue, Canadian Ski Patrol and New Annan Archery Club;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge and express their appreciation to Tim Colburn for the many contributions he has made to improving his community and the lives of the people who live there.

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. 1146

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

[Page 2376]

Whereas volunteers are such an important part of the communities in Queens County; and

Whereas Queens County has had a volunteer involved with many aspects of the community - the arts, education, sports, health, and recreation; and

Whereas the volunteer efforts of Queens County resident Sandra Woodford have been recognized by the Lunenburg Queens Volunteer Partnership;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Sandra Woodford for her contribution to the well-being of, and for her help to, people in her 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 Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 1147

HON. WAYNE GAUDET: M. le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que les membres d'une grande famille acadienne ont été inscrits au livre des records Guinness à titre de famille ayant le plus grand nombre de frères et s?urs vivants âgés de plus de 70 ans;

Attendu que l'ancien record mondial a été établi par 12 frères et s?urs âgés de plus de 70 ans;

Attendu que les 13 enfants toujours vivants d'Eugene et Alice Thériault de Grand-Sault (N.-B.) ont établi un nouveau record mondial;

[Page 2377]

Par conséquent, il est résolu que les membres de cette Assemblée félicitent Mme Huberte Boissonault de Pointe-de-l'Église et sa famille pour avoir établi un nouveau record mondial Guinness et lui souhaitent de nombreuses années de santé et de bonheur.

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

Whereas members of a large Acadian family have earned a place in The Guinness Book of World Records book as the family with the most siblings living over the age of 70 years old; and

Whereas the former world record was set for 12 siblings over the age of 70; and

Whereas the 13 surviving children of Eugene and Alice Theriault of Grand Falls, N.B. have set a new world record;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mme Huberte Boissonault of Church Point and her family for having set a new Guinness world record and wish her many years of good health and happiness.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Victoria-The Lakes.

RESOLUTION NO. 1148

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

Whereas Rankin School of the Narrows, located in Iona, Victoria County, was one of four teams who advanced to the semi-final round of the Nova Scotia School Athletic High School Girls Division Four Soccer Championships recently; and

[Page 2378]

Whereas Bonnie MacNeil scored for the Rankin Highlanders in their 2-1 loss to Pictou Academy, with the loss eliminating the Highlanders from any additional provincial play in the 2009 season; and

Whereas Rankin School of the Narrows did a commendable job in the 2009 soccer season, as high school soccer is an incredibly popular sport across Nova Scotia with numerous teams participating at all levels with the majority of playoff games being sudden-death win or lose games such as the one between Rankin and Pictou Academy;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud Head Coach Rachael Harvey and her assistant, Charlene Ellis, for their contribution along with a team of enthusiastic female soccer players in making the Rankin Highlanders one of the very best Division Four Female High School Soccer Teams in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Lunenburg West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1149

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

Whereas Sean Robert Tipert of Lower Branch, Lunenburg County was a lover of trees from a young age and often spent hours walking through the woods, enjoying the forest and wildlife and establishing and running Enhanced Hardwoods Ltd. with his father Sheldon for the past number of years; and

Whereas Sean was a member of the outdoor adventure club at Dartmouth High and an enthusiastic member of both the Boy Scouts and Ron's Cycling Club; and

[Page 2379]

Whereas Sean did not let sickness slow him down as he continued with adventures, including a trip across Canada and parts of the United States to see trees he'd read about his whole life; and on October 19, 2009, after an amazing battle against cancer, Sean passed away at age 41, in Bridgewater;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in offering the entire Tipert family including his wife Marsha and children Hannah, Josh and Jeffrey, condolences and our support as Sean had wished for them to live, love and laugh a lifetime.

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. 1150

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

Whereas 20 years ago, Margie and Jim Lamb began selling pork products on Saturdays to supplement their hog farm; and

Whereas Margie and Jim Lamb are celebrating the 20th Anniversary of their Meadowbrook Meat Markets, which have grown into a six-day a week operation with locations outside of Berwick, Alderney Landing in Dartmouth, Apple Berry Farm Market in Bridgewater, and supplying many restaurants in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Meadowbrook farm now employs 18 full-time staff and 25 part-time staff, including those who are working from the catering business;

[Page 2380]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Margie and Jim Lamb for their foresight to expand their pork production to include sales, and wish them continued success in 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 member for Argyle.

RESOLUTION NO. 1151

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

Whereas the Premier made the bold campaign promise of keeping all emergency rooms open knowing the challenge we face in finding doctors and nurses to fill all emergency rooms; and

Whereas the member from Shelburne issued a press release on June 2nd that because of eight days of emergency room closures at Roseway, in June, that residents of Shelburne should vote NDP; and

Whereas the NDP Government has been governing for 139 days and Roseway Hospital has been closed as of the end of November for 1,060 hours, or the equivalent of 44 days;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier, the NDP caucus, and especially the MLA for Shelburne have let down the residents of Shelburne who voted for them based on their empty promises and false hope.

[Page 2381]

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 Cumberland South.

RESOLUTION NO. 1152

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Parrsboro along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 45 and veterans and their families will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished along with those who returned deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we join this country are a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 45 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military both past and present, and assure them we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

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 2382]

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1153

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

Whereas the Cape Breton Cancer Centre has been recognized as the best in care in Canada for three years now; and

Whereas radio stations CJCB 1270 AM, Max 98.3 and 94.9 The Cape, hosted the second annual radiothon to raise much needed funds for the new Cancer Care unit; and

Whereas the success of the cancer centre is in no small measure a result of the community caring for community, resulting in treatment and services close to home, eliminating thousands of trips that would otherwise be made to Halifax;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the local team at Maritime Broadcasting System, the district health authority, the hospital foundation, volunteers and the Cape Breton Cancer Care unit staff on their success to date and wish them well on the journey of care that cares.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[2:00 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 member for Victoria-The Lakes.

[Page 2383]

RESOLUTION NO. 1154

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

Whereas Marlene Maclean of Port Hawkesbury recently won the Rising Star Award at the Small Business Week Dinner and Awards Gala hosted by the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce; and

Whereas Marlene's business, which sells women's apparel, stood out among 200-plus members of the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce for its strong performance and growth; and

Whereas the efforts of entrepreneurs just like Marlene Maclean are vital to the future success and growth of the Nova Scotia economy, and can provide endless opportunities to the people of our area and our province;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Strait Area Chamber of Commerce Rising Star Marlene MacLean on winning this impressive award and wish her business continued growth 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 member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1155

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

[Page 2384]

Whereas Remembrance Day celebrations are held annually to reflect upon those who died for us, for their homes their family and friends, for a collection of traditions they cherished and a future they believed in; and

Whereas Stephanie Adams, a student at Avon View High School in Windsor, Hants County, created a remarkable essay highlighting the importance of remembering Remembrance Day, which outshone competition to win local, provincial and national contests; and

Whereas this great achievement shows how Stephanie and other young people are becoming citizens with a social awareness, which is important to future Remembrance Day celebrations;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud Stephanie for her profound understanding of the importance of honouring our veterans and wish her all the best.

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: The time is now 2:03 p.m. and Oral Question Period will run to 3:03 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

PREM.: H1N1 VACCINE - ROLLOUT PLAN

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. While other jurisdictions continue to announce the rollout plan for expanded high-risk groups, Nova Scotians hear nothing. We have newspaper editorials from physicians voicing frustration

[Page 2385]

around possessing excess H1N1 supplies and not being able to use it. We have at least one district health authority who announced that they have no more clinics scheduled, obviously waiting for direction from this government, and today we hear that the World Trade and Convention Centre clinic was sending people home early.

Mr. Speaker, while I'm not calling this government hypocritical, they have criticized others for a lack of plan for central control when a snowstorm hit the Cobequid Pass a year ago. Unlike a freak snowstorm, this pandemic was far from sudden. So my question to the Premier is, why did your government fail to plan?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, in fact exactly the opposite is true. We have a plan for the rollout of the vaccine as it is being received, on the basis of medical evidence and on the basis of science. We have stratified the population so the people who need the vaccine the most will get it, and will get it first.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, they don't even have a plan to roll out the vaccine that they have now. This government is wearing the fact that we haven't run out of vaccine as some badge of honour, when the fact is, the vaccine that's left is not where it should be and that's in the arms of Nova Scotians.

Today we learned that 115,000 Nova Scotians have been vaccinated out of a total supply of 173,500 adjuvanted and 54,000 unadjuvanted vaccines. This is a government that preached about being open and accountable in Opposition, now they're silent. They should practise what they were preaching on this side of the House, Mr. Speaker - a failure to do nothing less would be hypocritical.

So my question for the Premier is, why haven't we seen at least 160,000 Nova Scotians vaccinated - the number of vaccines that this province has had for over a week?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as the Leader of the Official Opposition knows, we have asked those people in the high-risk groups to come forward to get their vaccinations. We have to make sure that there is supply in order to be able to meet that demand. I think the good news is that we haven't run out of vaccine. I know from my conversations with the Minister of Health that they are considering the next group of high-risk recipients and those announcements will be made in due course.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, that vaccine was sent here to be given to Nova Scotians, not for this government to hold on to some sort of badge of honour. Nova Scotians are looking for this vaccine and they deserve to have it. Nova Scotians deserve to know. They deserve nothing less from this government than full disclosure. This is a government that said that they would do things differently and they have fallen far short.

[Page 2386]

My question for the Premier is, in the spirit of openness and accountability, is it the supply problem or is it an ill-conceived rollout strategy partnered with insufficient human resource capacity that is preventing Nova Scotians from receiving vaccines faster? Which is it, Mr. Premier?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as the member opposite already pointed out, 115,000 Nova Scotians have already received the vaccine. Those, in particular, are the ones in the high-risk categories. The vaccine is continuing to be rolled out to those categories. We're looking now at the question of how those categories can be broadened and expanded. As more vaccine becomes available and as we can accommodate more people into those groups, we will.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

LWD - H1N1: IMPACT - MIN. INFORMATION PLANS

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. The H1N1 pandemic has now reached all regions of the province and is causing concern beyond the individuals and groups which are most vulnerable and on to the wider communities. Such is the case with industry and the continuation of business operations throughout Nova Scotia. My question to the Premier is, what steps has your Minister of Labour and Workforce Development taken to inform business and industry about the H1N1 virus and its potential impact on their operations and their workforce?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, our efforts with respect to the H1N1 virus and the information with respect to the influenza itself, and with respect to its impact on all organizations, is being distributed across the province through the various medias that we have, including the Web site. In addition to that, there of course have been consultations with respect to their business continuation plans. I think that is what can be done with respect to the businesses and I believe that business owners are very responsible in terms of trying to understand what it does mean for their business and for their employees, most importantly.

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, my first question was what has the Premier done or what has the minister done to inform; my second question is this, the Minister of Labour and Workforce Development has a major role to play to inform, educate and support businesses in this province about the serious effects of H1N1 virus and how to deal with potential outbreaks in their workplace. So will the Premier inform this House about the specific actions that have been taken to help businesses and industry respond to the potential negative impact?

THE PREMIER: Again, Mr. Speaker, all the businesses are entitled to the information that's being provided to the general public. It is the businesses themselves that

[Page 2387]

are the people who understand the impact on their business and that's why it was up to them to come up with the business continuation plans to ensure that the impact on their businesses would be minimized. It's not up to the government to go in and assess what the best business plan, for business continuation, for businesses is. We don't have that expertise; we don't pretend to - what we do is we consult appropriately.

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, it sounds to me like businesses are on their own. This is a very serious matter, and I expected the minister and her Cabinet colleagues would have taken a concerted effort to help businesses operate and keep as healthy as possible during this vulnerable period. My final supplementary is, again, to the Premier. Will the Premier inform this House of what his actions as Premier will be and his personal commitment to manage businesses through this crisis?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I think I've already laid out exactly the approach we have, but for fuller and more clarity, I would ask the Minister of Labour and Workforce Development to add to what I've already said.

HON. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to have a chance to provide a little bit of detail. I did table, during the emergency debate the other night, the full package of questions and answers made available to thousands of employers around the province - that was distributed early in the Fall, and it is also posted on the department's Web site.

In addition, we've set up some regional meetings to meet with employers in various parts of the province. These have been set up in conjunction and co-operation with some of the business organizations and they've certainly been very well received. So the information is out there and my staff have made it known that they are able to be reached at any time to answer any further questions. Thank you.

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

ERs: CLOSURES - ELECTION PROMISES

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. The Premier and his New Democratic Party told Nova Scotians, daily, during the recent election campaign not to worry, that the ER in their community would remain open and that they had a plan to deliver on that promise. Yesterday, the Deputy Minister of Health told Nova Scotians that keeping every ER open 24/7 was unrealistic. So my question for the Premier is, in light of your deputy's statement, will you admit to Nova Scotians that you have to break your election promise of keeping all ERs open?

[Page 2388]

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the member opposite. What I will tell all Nova Scotians is that we will work hard, every single day, to keep the commitments we made. (Applause)

MR. MCNEIL: That's a new code for no, Mr. Speaker. The NDP campaigned on a promise to keep the province's emergency rooms open 24/7 - they said they had a plan; they hired an ER adviser to improve access to the province's ERs; they said they had the answers; they assured worried communities that every ER was going to be protected; and they said, we are the ones you can trust.

My question to the Premier is, you said you would keep all emergency rooms open - why is your Health Department saying you can't?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, that is not what the Department of Health has said and, in fact, he is quite right, we have hired an ER adviser, and we have put in place legislation with respect to accountability around these decisions - these are concrete steps to make sure that we address what has become a chronic problem in many communities.

I think that the people of Nova Scotia expect that we do that, that we work to make sure that the services they need in their communities are, in fact, available. I want to commend the Minister of Health and the departmental officials for making sure that those steps are being taken, and we look forward to the continuation of the program to make sure those services are available.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, during the election campaign the NDP promised that the Cobequid Community Health Centre would become a 24/7 operation, and now we hear that that facility is expanding its hours despite the fact that we have ER closures occurring across Nova Scotia on a regular basis. My question to the Premier is, how can you ensure that the Cobequid Community Health Centre does not become yet another facility on the government's rotating list of ER closures?

[2:15 p.m.]

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, it's always difficult to determine exactly what the point of the Leader of the Official Opposition is, but what we want to see is expanded health services that are going to serve the communities in the province. The expansion of the Cobequid Community Health Centre and their services, in fact, will help relieve some of the pressures that we've seen on other facilities in metropolitan Halifax-Dartmouth. This is a good thing, and I would hope that the Leader of the Official Opposition would understand that.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

[Page 2389]

HEALTH: PHYSICIAN RETIREMENTS -

RECRUITMENT/RETENTION

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health. Residents in my community are becoming increasingly concerned about the state of physician HR planning in our area. Doctors have retired, some have left and some will be retiring. As you know, this puts a strain on emergency room coverage in local areas, puts a lot of pressure on the existing complement of physicians. My question to the minister is, what is this government prepared to do to meet both the current demand and pending retirements of physicians, both in the Valley and across the province?

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, my department is very aware of the demographic challenge that we face with respect to retiring physicians in various parts of this province, as well as retiring nurses. Over the past years a fair amount of work has been done to look at ways to retain senior nurses. Certainly we have a very good working relationship with Doctors Nova Scotia and we will be continuing to work with them on plans for retention and recruitment. We've expanded the number of seats at the medical schools, for example. Training more medical doctors is one way to ensure that we have the supply of physicians that we need throughout our province.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, this is a government that has all of the answers, when they came to government, around addressing ER closures, just none of the solutions to actually make it happen. I have, in my area alone, three individuals, three Nova Scotians who completed their medical degrees out of country, passing their Canadian and U.S. medical exams, who badly wanted to come home and practise. They could not. Two of these three individuals wanted to be family physicians. The U.S. snapped them up in their residency program, and as a result, we have likely lost them forever. My question to the minister is, what is government doing to expand family medicine residency options in Nova Scotia?

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, we have a new dean at Dalhousie Medical School and early in his time at the medical school, and early in my time in the Department of Health, we had an opportunity to meet. He is a well-respected dean who has a great deal of experience. He has offered to work with myself and the department with respect to this very difficult problem. He has some terrific ideas about how we can retain doctors here in Nova Scotia, how we can attract them to the rural communities, and he has been in contact, following those meetings, with officials in my department. We will continue to work with Dalhousie Medical School to address this very important issue.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, it is not enough for any government to rely solely on recruitment or retention to meet our needs. There needs to be a comprehensive, made-in-Nova Scotia plan. While this government talked a lot about central planning in Opposition, it's clear that this was nothing more than rhetoric. My question to the minister is, when can

[Page 2390]

Nova Scotians expect to see a clear, multi-faceted physician human resource plan that will meet the needs of Nova Scotians?

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, as I've indicated, we have good working relationships with the relevant parties in terms of addressing this issue, Doctors Nova Scotia and Dalhousie Medical School. We will continue to collaborate and strengthen those relationships as we work to ensure that we have the supply of physicians that are required throughout our province.

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

PREM: DONKIN MINE EMISSION - OFFSETS

MR. ALFIE MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, my question through you will be to the Premier. Yesterday during Question Period the Premier said he and his government were supportive of the Donkin Mine development. However, he did not fully address the pressing need to deal with short-term emission offsets required to enable the four-year exploratory phase to be approved.

My question to the Premier is, will the Premier commit to this House that he will support emission offsets so that Xstrata will be in a position to make Donkin coal available to Nova Scotia Power, without the utility facing emissions penalties?

THE PREMIER: What I can tell the member opposite is that in respect to this project, the negotiations around it, the consideration for the project is still underway. There hasn't been a decision made in that regard at this point. The company, I think, is fully cognizant of the issues around it. In fact, the question of emissions, they are still considering what they are going to do so this is a matter that is, as I say, still under consideration and there is not a decision that can be announced at this time.

MR. MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, the Premier is aware that Nova Scotia is the only province in Canada to be implementing a mercury emissions protocol which could prevent Nova Scotia Power from using Donkin coal. This could result in penalties to Nova Scotia Power that would prevent Cape Breton coal from being tested in Cape Breton.

The Premier is also aware that the Point Aconi power plant is one of the cleanest burning and efficient units in the country, due to its fluidized bed to allow for high-sulphur coal to be used and it is also used for mixing different coals.

Mr. Speaker, will the Premier instruct his Ministers of Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources to work with both Xstrata and Nova Scotia Power to achieve a balanced approach that will enable hundreds of millions of dollars to be invested and jobs to be created in Cape Breton?

[Page 2391]

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, of course we're considering carefully the plans that Xstrata are pursuing. We are, of course, encouraging Nova Scotia Power to have a look at that as an alternative fuel source but there are, as he points out, important considerations on the emissions side that have to be considered. So we are continuing to look at the project, we're continuing to consider the material that we have in front of us, including any proposals that come forward from the proponent, any contractual arrangements they might want to make us aware of.

We're going to continue to try to work with them to make that project a reality but we have to consider all of the matters before us.

MR. MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the Premier for that answer because this is a very serious issue and I'm sure that his government appreciates that. What we're talking about here is an ability to enable Xstrata to be able to move forward with the project. Xstrata still needs to work out a deal with Nova Scotia Power, we know that, but this red tape is creating an issue for them.

The reason that the bill was introduced yesterday was so that there would be a limited amount of time, so that we do not give Nova Scotia Power unlimited, open-ended emissions relief.

I just want to ask the Premier one final time, is the Premier prepared to take the necessary leadership role to see that the exploratory phase has a chance to be realized, by ensuring that this project is not held up by that kind of red tape?

THE PREMIER: Well, Mr. Speaker, I don't think that emissions standards are red tape. I think they are things that have to be seriously considered, mercury is a neurotoxin. There are important considerations that have to be balanced on every project that comes before this province. We, as I've said before - you know, I'm very well aware of the project. I want to see Donkin go ahead, but it has to be the right project. It has to be under the right conditions. That's why we continue to work with the proponent, we continue to look at the options that may be available, and we're going to continue to do that and see if we can come to a conclusion that will have a positive outcome for Xstrata and for Donkin.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

HEALTH: H1N1 VACCINE - INMATES

HON. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health. Do you think that vaccinating inmates at provincial correctional facilities should be a priority over guards and health care workers at those facilities?

[Page 2392]

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, we have a priority list for vaccinations. The priority list, as you know - I've repeated it numerous times - is pregnant women, and children under the age of five, and no, inmates in correctional facilities are not part of that list - unless, I would imagine, if they were perhaps from a First Nations community.

MR. COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, this has happened at the Burnside correctional facility. Who made the decision?

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I don't think that's actually the case. I asked my department, when this was becoming an issue in other provinces, if anything similar to that might have occurred here in Nova Scotia. I've been advised that inmates in our correctional facilities have not received the vaccine. I have also been advised that perhaps health care workers who have direct contact with people in correctional facilities may have been immunized, including the forensic facilities, but I want to be absolutely clear that inmates in our correctional facilities were not part of the targeted group and were not to receive the vaccine, and to the best of my knowledge, based on information that I've requested from the DHAs, have not received the vaccine.

MR. COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, we have information that leads us to believe that indeed the Burnside correctional facility's inmates had been vaccinated and the staff had not.

Mr. Speaker, the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation had vaccine shipped to them, and fortunately it was redirected to local doctors. Hockey teams have been vaccinated, and yet the high-risk groups are still in line waiting for vaccine. The question to the minister is, who do you need to know to jump the queue in the Province of Nova Scotia?

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I have every confidence in the workers who are working in the health care system, in the Public Health clinics, who are administering the vaccine, that they are following the protocols that have been sent out to them by the Chief Medical Officer. On occasion there may be an anomaly, but by and large the vast number of people are people who fit firmly within the targeted group, because that's the kind of people we have as residents in our province. They don't jump the queue, they don't go to the head of the line when they don't belong there.

[2:30 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cumberland South.

PREM: SPRINGHILL CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

- COMMITMENT HONOUR

[Page 2393]

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, my question will be for the Premier. I have to say in starting out that I was very pleased to hear the Premier say a few moments ago that his government will honour commitments that he made during the election campaign. During the recent campaign the Premier stated he would honour all commitments made by the former government. I'll table a document I think he's seen me table here once or twice before, it says, "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises. We need to know just exactly what it is that the government has committed to communities, and what I have said is that we will live up to those. If they have made a commitment to a community, then we will honour it."

I say again, as I've said before, credibility in politics is vital for success. Will the Premier today tell the community of Springhill he will honour the commitment made by the previous Progressive Conservative Government with regard to building a new provincial correctional facility in that community?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I think the reason why that's the honourable member's favourite press clipping is because it says Tory commitments. Well, we've been trying to figure out what those Tory commitments are. Some of them went through Executive Council, some of them did not. Some of them were made during the election campaign. We have looked at where those commitments had been made to communities, we're doing our best to fulfill them.

I think, ultimately, I would hope this would be the case for the members, I would hope that they would want to make sure that the commitments that are kept are the ones that are in the best interests of the people of the province. In that case, I would hope the member opposite would want to make sure that the selection of the site for that facility is absolutely the right site for the facility.

MR. SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I truly believe the best site was selected and it was Springhill. I can tell the Premier that the previous Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, along with the Premier and myself, were committed to this project. Land was acquired in the Town of Springhill from the town, design work was done, discussions were begun with the federal government with regard to sharing of services and keeping in mind the tremendous opportunity - I know the Minister of Energy is supportive of - with regard to the geothermal energy, for a tremendous savings in energy.

Mr. Speaker, $18 million is in the Spring budget this government took out, most of that money was earmarked for the community of Springhill for a new correctional facility. Will the Premier today commit to ensuring the Town of Springhill will be treated fairly in this process?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I would have it no other way than to have the Town of Springhill treated fairly, of course. I know that the Minister of Justice is considering this

[Page 2394]

matter now. It's being done carefully, it's being done on the basis of what is best for the system of justice in the province, what's best for corrections. I expect that is what the member opposite would expect from the Minister of Justice.

MR. SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, to the Premier, the Premier would know I introduced, in the Speaker's Gallery today, His Worship Mayor Allen Dill from Springhill. To ensure that the community of Springhill appreciates the process, and does understand that they will be used fairly, I'd ask if after Question Period, would the Premier meet with myself and the mayor to discuss issues around correctional facilities?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as the member knows, this matter is being handled by the Minister of Justice. The file is being reviewed in that department. I think it would be best, if you're really concerned with that, to ask the Minister of Justice. He is clearly aware of the circumstances related to the facility.

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

NAT. RES.: VALLEYVIEW PK. - CLOSURE SCHEDULE (2010)

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. My question to the minister is, does your department plan to close Valleyview Provincial Park a month early in 2010?

HON. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, yes, the plan is to close a month early in the upcoming year.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I'm wondering if the minister could tell this House whether or not Valleyview Park is the only provincial park that will be closing a month early or are there other provincial parks that will be doing the same next year?

MR. MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I don't have other names of parks on the tip of my tongue. I think it would be unusual if that would be the only park in the province that might have run into the same situation. I can verify that for the member and get that information to him.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, this decision will not only have an impact on Nova Scotians and tourists who visit our beautiful province. It will also have an impact on the seasonal employees who work at those parks, and closing four weeks early will have an impact on employment insurance benefits, which will be reduced or be cut back before the park actually reopens the following year.

[Page 2395]

So I'm wondering what are your department and your government doing to ensure that your seasonal employees are treated fairly and ensure that they have the income they need to go through the entire 12 months?

MR. MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I thank the Leader of the Official Opposition for his question. He's right to be concerned, I think, for his constituents, and I am as well, in particular because these individuals are staff of the Department of Natural Resources. The requirement, I believe, for them is 525 hours in order to qualify for EI, and even though the number of weeks they work wouldn't necessarily allow that to happen, their overtime hours allow it to happen. So they'll hit the number of hours that they need to qualify for employment insurance.

I want the member and all members to be aware that I intend for my staff to try to seek options. I'm thinking that there will be other things that we may want these staff people to be doing even if parks do close. I find it hard to believe that there wouldn't be other things that could be done in the parks after they close that would allow our employees to get the hours they need.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants West.

ERD: HANTS WEST - HIGH-SPEED INTERNET

MR. CHUCK PORTER: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Economic and Rural Development. In my home constituency of Hants West, rural high speed Internet is among the highest priorities, but with 2010 closing in and the deadline for the complete broadband access quickly approaching, there is still a great deal of work to be done. Will this minister guarantee that all areas of Hants West will have high speed Internet by the end of 2009, as originally stated?

HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, to the member opposite, unfortunately, there are no guarantees in life. However, I can say that right now we have over 90 per cent access in the Province of Nova Scotia. The targeted date by the former government was by the end of the year. We are still aiming to have 100 per cent connection by the end of the year.

MR. PORTER: In order to provide high speed access to all areas of Hants West, several towers needed to be built, while others are in various stages of negotiations with stakeholders. This could be anything from awaiting quotes on the Ardoise tower to soil testing in the Bramber tower site. My question to the minister is, are you satisfied that the progress being made is far along enough so that all original deadlines for this access will be met?

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, the last report that I had from staff is that we're still aiming for the end of the year deadline. That's been unchanged. I do know that we have run

[Page 2396]

into some problems in certain jurisdictions around the province, which is only natural, but right now, our target is the end of the calendar year.

MR. PORTER: Mr. Speaker, given the fact that it is now November and significant work has yet to be done, we're now running the risk of not meeting the deadline. My question to the minister is, do contracts held with Eastlink, Seaside Communications, and OmniGlobe Networks call for penalties to be paid by these companies if the deadline is not met, and if so, what is the amount of that penalty?

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, there are penalties that will be imposed. That's part of the contract, and I don't know off the top of my head what the penalties are, but I certainly will find out and I will table them here in the House.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Glace Bay.

ERD - ALIANT (C.B.): JOB LOSSES - PREVENTION

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Economic and Rural Development. A couple of weeks ago my colleague, the member for Cape Breton South asked the minister if he had made any efforts whatsoever to keep Aliant from moving 38 jobs out of Cape Breton. The minister didn't even try to answer the question at that time, but since it's been well over two weeks now, my question for the minister is, quite simply, has he done anything at all, in the past couple of weeks, to prevent those jobs from being lost in Cape Breton?

HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, Aliant is a private company. The jobs that are being lost to Cape Breton - one of the things that I recall very vividly is that they offered the employees employment at other places. One of the things that I'm sure of, through the Department of Labour and Workforce Development, is that we would be more than interested in doing what we can for the employees at Aliant.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, relocation is not what those 38 employees are looking for. They're looking for that minister to show some leadership and to stand up on their behalf, but they're not getting leadership from the minister and from that government. He didn't even know what was going on until after the loss of the 38 jobs appeared in the paper. My question is, in the two weeks since the Liberal caucus informed the minister that Cape Breton was going to lose 38 jobs, has the minister even bothered to meet with the company or the employees to try and save the jobs?

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, again I say Aliant is a private company. They would have no reason to call me up or I don't think the (Interruptions)

[Page 2397]

MR. SPEAKER: Order. The honourable Minister of Economic and Rural Development has the floor.

MR. PARIS: I don't think they'd have any reason to call me, as Minister of Economic and Rural Development, and say, Mr. Minister, we're getting rid of X number of jobs. Again, I reiterate that the Department of Labour and Workforce Development is more than interested in working with people that are at risk of losing jobs.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, I'm not even going to waste my breath by asking that minister another question right now because I won't get an answer anyway, so I'm going to go to the only person over there who might have an answer for Cape Bretoners and that is the Deputy Premier. I want to know if that Deputy Premier needs to tell the people of Cape Breton that he's going to do something about the lost jobs down there, aside from sending Cape Bretoners to New Brunswick to look for work, and then sending in bureaucrats to help them fill out their EI slips. What real job opportunities is the Deputy Premier's government going to supply to those people for losing those 38 jobs in Cape Breton?

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I really don't understand which ministry he's asking me this question under because it's not relevant to any of my ministries.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

ERD: WOODSIDE INDUSTRIAL PK. - LAND TRANSACTIONS

MR. ANDREW YOUNGER: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Economic and Rural Development. It has come to our attention that businesses looking to purchase land and create jobs in Nova Scotia, and particularly the Woodside Industrial Park, are having trouble getting a phone call back from the department. My question to the minister is, why is your department holding up industrial and economic expansion in the Woodside Industrial Park by not ensuring that companies get a call back, and answers to land purchase requests?

HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I would assure all members of this House, when I receive phone calls, no matter who from, that I return phone calls. To the best of my knowledge I haven't received a phone call that I didn't call back.

MR. YOUNGER: Well, I guess we need to tell all the businesses to call the minister directly.

[2:45 p.m.]

[Page 2398]

Mr. Speaker, Remote Access Technologies has been trying to purchase 61 Atlantic Avenue. Now government, this minister's department has indicated that the Irvings have first right of refusal on that particular property. However, the department indicates that nobody has actually bothered to call the Irvings and see whether they want to exercise that first right of refusal. So Remote Access Technologies is opening an office in Las Vegas instead of Nova Scotia, and some of these jobs, many of these jobs, may be lost opportunities for Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, these are lost because the department won't pick up the phone and call the Irvings and see if they're still interested in the land. So my question to the minister is, why has your department not called the Irvings to allow them to exercise their first right of refusal, so Remote Access Technologies can expand and provide well-paying jobs in Nova Scotia?

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I guess my first comment is that when it comes to land transactions, I would think that the first point of call for anyone would be through Natural Resources, or through another government department. I would also say that again, it's a reiteration that I return all calls that are made to my office and brought to my attention.

MR. YOUNGER: Mr. Speaker, I think it would surprise a lot of members of this House to know that if they want to buy land in a provincial industrial park they have to call the Department of Natural Resources. Just as the member for Glace Bay wanted the minister to actually make a call, we're asking for the minister, or anybody in his department, to actually make a call to the Irvings.

Mr. Speaker, what I want to know is will the minister contact Irving Limited to find out whether they're going to exercise their right of refusal on 61 Atlantic Avenue, and respond to the request of Remote Access Technologies so that they have an opportunity to expand to provide well-paying jobs to people in Nova Scotia?

MR. PARIS: You know what, Mr. Speaker, do you know what I will do to appease the member? I will have a conversation with my staff before the day's end, if we get out of the House in time, and find out what the status is and see if, indeed, there is anything there going on.

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

ERD: LEGIONS/COMMUN. CTRS. - FIN. ASSISTANCE

MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Economic and Rural Development.

[Page 2399]

In this House we're all wearing poppies and we'll be attending Remembrance Day ceremonies in our home constituencies to honour the veterans who so bravely served our country. My question to the minister is, does the minister feel that Legions throughout our province play a vital role honouring veterans, as well as serving as community centres which are worthy of financial assistance?

HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to stand in my place and say that I, myself, am a member of a Legion and my father was a veteran of the war (Applause) He served in the 87th with a lot of good members from Cape Breton. I believe that there are a lot of priorities in the Province of Nova Scotia and none exceeds those priorities in life when it comes to Legionnaires.

What we do with respect to Legions and the questions about community centres, I think that's probably more of a personal question than a professional question. It's one that I've never, ever been confronted with, either on a personal or professional level. When and if I ever will, I will take it into consideration and render my own point of view.

MR. BAIN: Mr. Speaker, I don't what kind of an answer that was. Royal Canadian Legion Branch 105, in Ingonish, is one of those very Legions that play a vital role in the community, but is in desperate need of financial assistance. The branch is unable to raise the funds locally to do much-needed repair to the roof. I recently wrote a letter on behalf of Legion Branch 105 to the minister requesting assistance. A response quickly came back to Legion President Gordon Rideout saying there was no money and to apply again in April.

Mr. Speaker, my question through you to the minister is, since we're only in November and the suggestion was made to reapply in April when there would be money available, what economic development opportunities can we expect to see between now and April since there's no money?

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I don't recall that request off the top of my head. (Interruptions) I don't recall that request off the top of my head. We consider every request that comes to us. If the response was, depending on what fund the application was being made to and if there was no money available, trust me, that just means the fund is depleted.

MR. BAIN: Mr. Speaker, if the minister is not aware, I'll make sure that the letter that was sent to him will be tabled before the end of today's business.

Mr. Speaker, as our veterans continue to age, the unfortunate truth is that their numbers will continue to decline. We cannot let these important Legions, that also serve in places as community centres, and accordingly the tributes to their sacrifice fade away. My final question to the minister is, what is this government's plan to assist Legions across this province in the face of these continuing challenges?

[Page 2400]

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I would suggest through you to the member opposite that there are other places within government that maybe that letter should also go. One of them is Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. It sometimes takes requests with respect to that sort of financing, that sort of funding, those sort of requests, and I would encourage the member opposite that if he represents that riding, he should also do a little work on his own behalf as well.

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

PREM.: DIGBY-SAINT JOHN FERRY SERV. - ASSIST

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. In the October 15th edition of the Digby Courier, the Premier said: The ferry service itself is something that really falls in the responsibility of the federal government and I don't think there's really, in our view, any real debate about that.

So my question to the Premier is, are you backing away from helping the Digby-Saint John Ferry Service continue operations past January 2011?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I think the article simply points out that the Digby Ferry, that service, is an interprovincial working. Constitutionally I believe it belongs in the category of an agency that should be funded by the federal government and, you know, I think that the former government worked with the federal government to ensure there was funding there for that ferry. I would reiterate - I believe that responsibility does belong with the federal government.

MR. THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, the province supplied Bay Ferries with $2 million in 2006 and last year contributed $15 million along with the Province of New Brunswick and the federal government. Nova Scotia has come to the aid of this important ferry service in the past and should be prepared to do so again. The people who rely on this service need assurances and we need to know what this government is doing to ensure the ferry service stays running for the growth of this province. So my question to the Minister of Economic and Rural Development is, what discussions have you had with the federal government on continuing the Digby Ferry service past January 2011?

HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, through you, the answer to the question is with the federal government, we haven't had any discussions. It's still quite a ways away but we've had discussions with Bay Ferries. So we consider ourselves to be in the loop.

One of the things that - it's almost like I wear two hats here, we talk about the ferry situation because there is the business case for ferries and also there is the tourism case for ferries, so we are on top of this as much as we can be. Thank you.

[Page 2401]

MR. THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, we're doing our best in southwest Nova Scotia to ensure this ferry gets used. We're working toward growth in aquaculture, growth in tourism, growth in the wine industry and the promise of business potential from New Brunswick. To continue this growth in business, we need to make sure that there's a ferry service between Digby and Saint John past 2011.

My final question to the minister is, will you make a commitment today to work with the federal government and make sure that we have continued economic growth in western Nova Scotia?

MR. PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise again. I neglected to mention this, but there's also a transportation study that is going on right now in the southwestern region. It is being funded through the federal government. I forgot to mention that connection that we have with the federal government. That study should be available sometime - well, before Christmas - I was going to say this month sometime, but just to be safe I will say before Christmas. I think that transportation study being headed up by the federal government will tell us a lot about transportation in the southwestern region. I would certainly be more than willing to share that with the honorable member when the time is appropriate.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Argyle.

PREM. - STARLINK AVIATION: GOV'T PURCHASING

- DETAILS

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, my question through you is for the Premier. An advertisement appeared in the May 27th edition of the Yarmouth Vanguard with a picture of the Premier stating, genuine leadership, real change. Starlink Aviation is an airline now operating out of the Yarmouth airport. They have two flights daily between Halifax and Yarmouth and, of course, between Yarmouth and Portland, Maine. They also understood it would take a while for those routes to become popular.

My question today, will the Premier advise this House how many corporate packages his government has purchased for government employees to use on government business when commuting between Yarmouth and Halifax?

THE PREMIER: Well thank you, Mr. Speaker. I keep track of a lot of things over here on this side of the House, but I must admit I don't keep track of all of the corporate packages that we buy for things like the transportation down to Yarmouth.

I know that various departments, of course, have looked at this, and I understand they do exist in the departments. They may have been purchased by the previous government and run their course but, Mr. Speaker, I'm sure we would make sure that the purchases would be the ones that would make the most sense for the taxpayers of the province.

[Page 2402]

[3:00 p.m.]

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, again through you to the Premier, the Premier is not too sure on how many packages have been bought and I understand. He is a busy guy and he can't know everything that's going on within his government, but I can tell him today, I know exactly how many corporate packages have been bought by government and that is zero - actually no, I think it might have showed as one, but I guess it's none.

If the Premier talked about leadership and change for smaller, rural communities, then why isn't he interested in seeing this airline make it a go in Yarmouth? I appreciate that they have some work ahead but people fly on government business, so why can't any corporate packages be purchased?

THE PREMIER: The answer is, there is no reason. There is a purchasing policy that the departments follow. They want to make sure they get the best possible deal for the taxpayers of the province and that includes taking into account the kinds of things that you have already indicated.

I met with Brenda Libby from Starlink, I've taken the service myself so I know that it is a good service. We certainly want it to be successful, not just the Halifax to Yarmouth portion, but also the Yarmouth to Portland portion. It's important for that part of the province. We recognize that they have challenges and we want to make sure that they have a business case that will allow them to survive.

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I thank the Premier for his commitment to maybe pick up a couple of corporate packages for either members of Executive Council or, of course, the workers, the people who do travel back and forth to Yarmouth. It is a very good service available.

The Premier would also know that there is a $2 million revolving loan available to the Airport Commission, and I would like to know - the Premier might not know the answer to this, but maybe he can get back to me on this one - how much of that revolving loan has been used to this point, and will the government continue to extend the loan until that airline becomes profitable?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, there was a commitment made by the former government to that airline. That remains in place. We haven't done anything that would impinge or hinder it. Of course, I think the taxpayers of the province expect there to be a business relationship with respect to these matters. When that comes up for renewal we will consider all of those things, as the former government did. I would like to tell him that we know, for example, that the Department of Health has doctors who fly into Yarmouth, and therefore these packages are purchased by the DHAs. Is that government, or is it a government agency? I mean, I think you're drawing a pretty fine distinction.

[Page 2403]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Clare.

ERD: YARMOUTH FERRY SERV. - ASSISTANCE

HON. WAYNE GAUDET: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Economic and Rural Development. On Tuesday I asked the minister if he had had any discussions regarding the operations of Bay Ferries. My question to the minister is, is the Department of Economic and Rural Development planning to assist the Yarmouth Ferry Service for its 2010 service?

HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, as I've already said once today, we have had discussions with Bay Ferries. What we try to do in the Department of Economic and Rural Development is, when such things as Bay Ferries - there has got to be a good business case for Bay Ferries, and one of the things that we are looking at now in partnership with Bay Ferries is the business case, along with the impact . . .

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, would you please revert to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers?

MR. SPEAKER: There is a request to revert the order of business.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table the Annual Report of the Review Board under the Involuntary Psychiatric Treatment Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable member for Lunenburg West on an introduction.

MR. GARY RAMEY: Mr. Speaker, I'll call the attention of members to the east gallery immediately in front of me. We have in the east gallery Reverend Norm Hovland and

[Page 2404]

his wife Eleanor, and also Mr. Elliot MacKinnon and his wife Shirley. I would hope that members would welcome them in the traditional way. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Victoria-The Lakes on an introduction.

MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to stand this afternoon and introduce two members of Victoria County Council who are here this afternoon. They are attending the UNSM Conference and came here this afternoon to observe the happenings in the House. These councillors are in the west gallery, and I would ask David Donovan and Larry Dauphinee if they would stand and receive the warm welcome of the House.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, with the consent of the House, could we add Bill No. 45 and Bill No. 50 to today's order paper?

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed that Bill No. 45 and Bill No. 50 be added to the day's order paper?

It is agreed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: 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.

[3:05 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Hon. Wayne Gaudet in the Chair.]

[3:09 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Charlie Parker, resumed the Chair.]

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

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

Bill No. 45 - Canning Library and Heritage Centre Exemption Act.

Bill No. 50 - Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

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

[Page 2405]

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: 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. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 45.

Bill No. 45 - Canning Library and Heritage Centre Exemption Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 45. 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. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 50.

Bill No. 50 - Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 50.

There has been a request for a recorded vote.

Ring the bells. Call in the members.

[3:10 p.m.]

[The Division Bells were rung.]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

Are the Whips satisfied?

There is a request for a recorded vote on Bill No. 50.

[Page 2406]

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[3:23 p.m.]

YEAS NAYS

Mr. Landry Mr. Scott

Ms. More Ms. Casey

Mr. Estabrooks Mr. Clarke

Ms. Peterson-Rafuse Mr. d'Entremont

Mr. Corbett Mr. MacLeod

Mr. Dexter Mr. Bain

Mr. Steele Mr. Porter

Ms. Maureen MacDonald

Mr. Paris

Ms. Jennex

Mr. MacDonell

Mr. Belliveau

Ms. Zann

Mr. Zinck

Ms. Conrad

Mr. MacKinnon

Mr. Gosse

Ms. Kent

Mr. David Wilson (Sackville-Cobequid)

Mr. Preyra

Ms. Raymond

Mr. Smith

Mr. Prest

Mr. Ramey

Mr. Skabar

Mr. Whynott

Mr. Morton

Ms. Birdsall

Mr. Boudreau

Mr. Burrill

Mr. Gaudet

Mr. Samson

Mr. Glavine

Ms. Whalen

Mr. McNeil

Mr. Manning MacDonald

Mr. Younger

Ms. Regan

[Page 2407]

Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay)

Mr. Theriault

Mr. Colwell

THE CLERK: For, 41. Against, 7.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, I wonder if we could adjourn for about 20 or 25 minutes, until Her Honour is without, and we can finish it up then?

MR. SPEAKER: We'll recess for 20 or 25 minutes.

[3:26 p.m. The House recessed.]

[3:53 p.m. The House reconvened.]

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

MR. SPEAKER: Let her Honour be admitted.

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: Her Honour, the Lieutenant Governor.

[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 Charlie Parker; the Chief Clerk of the House, Roderick MacArthur, Q.C., and Assistant Clerk, Neil Ferguson.

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

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

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

[Page 2408]

THE CLERK:

Bill No. 1 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 2 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 4 - Engineering Profession Act.

Bill No. 5 - Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

Bill No. 6 - HRM by Design.

Bill No. 7 - Trade Union Act.

Bill No. 9 - Assessment Act/Municipal Grants Act.

Bill No. 10 - Personal Property Security Act.

Bill No. 14- Judicature Act.

Bill No. 15 - Beneficiaries Designation Act.

Bill No. 16 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 17 - Agricultural Marshland Conservation Act.

Bill No. 24 - Pipeline Act.

Bill No. 25 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 27 - Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Bill No. 28 - Education Act.

Bill No. 29 - Financial Measures (2009) Act.

Bill No. 30 - Public Trustee Act.

Bill No. 34 - Emergency Management Act.

Bill No. 38 - Condominium Act.

Bill No. 39 - Uranium Exploration and Mining Prohibition Act.

[Page 2409]

Bill No. 40 - Labour Standards Code.

Bill No. 44 - Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act.

Bill No. 45 - Canning Library and Heritage Centre Association.

Bill No. 47 - Dietitians Act.

Bill No. 48 - Pension Benefits Act.

Bill No. 49 - Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation Act.

Bill No. 50 - Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

Bill No. 52 - Emergency Department Accountability Act.

Bill No. 54 - Executive Council Act/Public Service Act.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR: In Her Majesty's name, I Assent to these Bills.

[4:00 p.m.]

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

Bill No. 42 - Appropriations Act, 2009.

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

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[The Lieutenant-Governor left the Chamber.]

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

[The Speaker took the Chair.]

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

[The national anthem was sung by the members.]

[Page 2410]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER: 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: The Fall session is adjourned. I wish you all a good Fall and a joyous holiday Season. We'll see you next time around.

[The House rose at 4:05 p.m.]

[Page 2411]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 1156

By: Mr. David Wilson (Glace Bay)

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

Whereas Chrissy Smith of Glace Bay has been chosen to carry the Olympic Torch in the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay; and

Whereas Chrissy Smith will carry the Olympic Torch on Monday, November 16, 2009; and

Whereas Chrissy Smith will carry the Olympic Torch in New Waterford, along Plummer Avenue to Ellsworth Avenue;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize Chrissy Smith for being selected to carry the Olympic Torch in the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.

RESOLUTION NO. 1157

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Daryl Hayes has been a volunteer for 30 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Daryl Hayes is the radio coordinator for the organization, providing the team with the most up-to-date and useful frequencies for hand-held radios for many years, as well as introducing GPS to the organization;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Daryl Hayes for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 30 years.

[Page 2412]

RESOLUTION NO. 1158

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Bryan Tibbo has been a volunteer for 30 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Bryan Tibbo has driven the search teams by school bus safely to the search sites for many years;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Bryan Tibbo for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1159

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Leon Bonang has been a volunteer for 25 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Leon Bonang, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Leon Bonang for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 25 years.

[Page 2413]

RESOLUTION NO. 1160

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Robert Conrod has been a volunteer for 25 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Robert Conrod, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Robert Conrod for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 25 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1161

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Robert Laybolt has been a volunteer for 25 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Robert Laybolt, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Robert Laybolt for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 25 years.

[Page 2414]

RESOLUTION NO. 1162

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Donald Keizer has been a volunteer for 20 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Donald Keizer, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Donald Keizer for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 20 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1163

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Francis Mannette has been a volunteer for 20 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Francis Mannette, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Francis Mannette for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 20 years.

[Page 2415]

RESOLUTION NO. 1164

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Darrel Baker has been a volunteer for 10 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Darrel Baker, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Darrel Baker for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 10 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1165

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Margo Legere has been a volunteer for 10 years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Margo Legere, along with her team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Margo Legere for her hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past 10 years.

[Page 2416]

RESOLUTION NO. 1166

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Richard Campbell has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Richard Campbell, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Richard Campbell for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1167

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Daniel Cole has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Daniel Cole, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Daniel Cole for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

[Page 2417]

RESOLUTION NO. 1168

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Herbert George has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Herbert George, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Herbert George for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1169

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Lorna George has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Lorna George, along with her team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Lorna George for her hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

[Page 2418]

RESOLUTION NO. 1170

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Darrell McCurdy has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Darrell McCurdy, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Darrell McCurdy for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue for the past five years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1171

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Sheldon Page has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Sheldon Page, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Sheldon Page for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

[Page 2419]

RESOLUTION NO. 1172

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Colleen Prentice has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Colleen Prentice, along with her team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Colleen Prentice for her hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1173

By: Hon. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization was founded in 1978 and is a volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives; and

Whereas Bruce Webber has been a volunteer for five years with the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization; and

Whereas Bruce Webber, along with his team, has searched in the woods or wherever to find the lost person in many types of weather conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Bruce Webber for his hard work and commitment to the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue organization for the past five years.

[Page 2420]

RESOLUTION NO. 1174

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas a local Colchester North business has grown from having three employees in 2005 to now employing 10 full-time and four part-time employees; and

Whereas Myron and Nancy Upham, owners of M.U. Rhino Renovations credit their success to having excellent employees who show concern and respect for their customers; and

Whereas M.U. Rhino Renovations is noted for being very active in the sporting community and for its charitable acts;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Myron and Nancy Upham, owners of M.U. Rhino Renovations, for receiving the New Small Business Award sponsored by the Truro and District Chamber of Commerce.

RESOLUTION NO. 1175

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the Honourable Rodney MacDonald, Premier of Nova Scotia from February 22, 2006 to June 19, 2009, forever improved the financial health of our provincial treasury by negotiating favourable terms for the Crown Share Agreement; initiated many compassionate programs, such as the Pharmacare and Energy Rebate Programs; and balanced three consecutive budgets; and

Whereas during the 10 years that Rodney served as MLA, organizations in every community in the constituency of Inverness benefited from his effective representation; and

Whereas the Mabou and District Athletic Club is hosting a fundraising tribute in honour of Rodney MacDonald on Friday, November 6, 2009;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge the contribution that Rodney MacDonald has made to his community and to his province.

[Page 2421]

RESOLUTION NO. 1176

Motion de Wayne Gaudet, député (Clare)

M. le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que en 2009, la Garderie familiale de Clare célèbre 25 années de service très important pour les jeunes enfants et leurs familles;

Attendu que le programme de garderie en milieu familial vise à offrir un environnement sain, sécuritaire, et approprié aux jeunes enfants qui reçoivent des soins dans des maisons privées agrées;

Attendu que depuis 25 ans, les fournisseurs de soins de la région de Clare ont offert à la communauté un excellent service de garde;

Par conséquent, il est résolu que les membres de cette Assemblée félicitent la Garderie familiale de Clare à l'occasion de son 25e anniversaire, et lui souhaitent un succès continu dans ses projets futurs.

RESOLUTION NO. 1176

By: Hon. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas 2009 marks the 25th Anniversary of La Garderie Familiale de Clare providing a most valuable service to young children and their families; and

Whereas the family home day care program is designed to provide healthy, safe, and appropriate environments for young children who are being cared for in approved private homes; and

Whereas for the past 25 years, the care providers in Clare have supplied the community with excellent day care services throughout our municipality;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate La Garderie Familiale de Clare on their 25th Anniversary and wish them continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 2422]

RESOLUTION NO. 1177

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont (Argyle)

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

Whereas the Strait United Girls Team from Port Hawkesbury advanced to the championship game of the Nova Scotia Under 14 Tier 2B Soccer Championships in Lunenburg on Labour Day weekend; and

Whereas the Strait United team finished with a 2-1 record in round-robin play, winning nail-biters over host Lunenburg 1-0 and West Hants 2-1 before losing to Fundy United from Amherst 3-2; and

Whereas the 2-1 mark by Strait United was still the best mark in their division and advanced them to Sunday afternoon's championship game against the Yarmouth Clippers, where the Strait lost 4-1 with Jennifer MacKaskill scoring the lone goal for Strait United;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Strait United Under 14 Tier 2B Girls soccer team for their impressive 2009 soccer season and wish them every success in the coming years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1178

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas six years ago Rose Tooker suffered financial difficulties and required the services of the local food bank; and

Whereas this Upper Brookside resident of Colchester North now has reversed the roles and has become a volunteer for the Colchester Food Bank; and

Whereas Rose can identify with the situation of the clients and has made a personal commitment to helping them;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Rose Tooker for her charitable acts and for being chosen Volunteer of the Week.

[Page 2423]

RESOLUTION NO. 1179

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas Mike Belliveau, owner of Mike's Foodland in Tatamagouche, a participant in the CREATE Awards program, which stands for Communities Recognizing Employers Advancement Towards Equality, believes these participants provide loyalty, persistence, trustworthiness, and a strong desire to work; and

Whereas by hiring employees through this program, Mike provides a sense of purpose and meaning in the lives of mental health sufferers; and

Whereas Mike has been recognized by the Colchester East Hants branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association for his efforts to help create an equal-opportunity workplace for people with mental health issues;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House applaud Mike Belliveau of Mike's Foodland for his commitment to this very worthwhile program.

RESOLUTION NO. 1180

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas over the last 35 years Sara Bonnyman, a Tatamagouche-based potter, has built her business from the ground up by designing functional domestic pottery; and

Whereas three years ago Sara launched an innovative product called the Moss Scuttle which is used to keep a lathered shaving brush warm; and

Whereas thanks to the Internet, Sara has shipped 1,600 Scuttles around the globe, thus launching her products onto the international stage;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Sara Bonnyman for her hard work, creativity, and determination, which have made her business such a success.

[Page 2424]

RESOLUTION NO. 1181

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Public Service continually strives for excellence in its work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Public Service Commission takes the time each year to say thanks through its Long Service Award Program to its long-serving members; and

Whereas Gary Grant was recently recognized for his 25 years of dedicated work with the province's Department of Agriculture;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bass River's Gary Grant for his outstanding work with the Nova Scotia Government over the past quarter century.

RESOLUTION NO. 1182

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Public Service continually strives for excellence in its work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Philip Green, Manager of Finance with the Nova Scotia Farm Loan Board is one of those employees and was recently recognized for his 25 years of exceptional work with the Government of Nova Scotia's Department of Agriculture; and

Whereas the Public Service of Nova Scotia contributes in a fundamental way to good government, to democracy and to society as a whole;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Philip Green of Valley, Colchester County for his outstanding commitment to the Nova Scotia Government over the past two and a half decades and wish him all the best as he continues his work with the department.

[Page 2425]

RESOLUTION NO. 1183

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's civil servants contribute to the prosperity of our province by providing high quality service to keep our families safe, our businesses growing and our communities thriving every single day; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards are a way to say thank you to those individuals who have committed so much of their lives to that level of excellent; and

Whereas Adrian Armsworthy of Valley, Colchester County is one such employee who was recently recognized for his 35 years of dedicated service through the province's Department of Labour and Workforce Development;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud Adrian Armsworthy of Valley, Colchester County for his quarter of a century of service to the people of this great province and his continued work with the Government of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 1184

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Public Service continually strives for excellence in its work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Public Service Commission takes the time each year to say thanks through its Long Service Award Program to its long-serving members; and

Whereas Randall A. Olson was recently recognized for his 25 years of dedicated work with the province's Department of Agriculture;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Randall A. Olson of Valley, Colchester County for his outstanding work with the Nova Scotia Government over the past quarter century and wish him all the best in his retirement.

[Page 2426]

RESOLUTION NO. 1185

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the members of Nova Scotia Public Service continually strive for excellence in their work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Elizabeth Ann Crouse, General Manager of the Natural Products Marketing Council is one such provincial employee and was recently recognized for her 30 years of exceptional work with the Government of Nova Scotia's Department of Agriculture; and

Whereas the Public Service of Nova Scotia contributes in a fundamental way to good government, to democracy and to society as a whole;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Elizabeth Ann Crouse of Valley, Colchester County for her outstanding commitment to the Nova Scotia Government over the past three decades and wish her all the best as she continues her work with the department and thank her also for her volunteer involvement with 4-H.

RESOLUTION NO. 1186

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's civil servants contribute to the prosperity of our province and provide high quality service to keep our families safe, our businesses growing and our communities thriving every single day; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards are a way to say thank you to those individuals who have committed so much of their lives to that level of excellence; and

Whereas Darrell MacRae of Upper North River, Colchester County is one such employee and was recently recognized for his 30 years of dedicated service through the province's Department of Agriculture;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud Darrell MacRae, Upper North River, Colchester County for his three decades of service to the people of this great province and wish him all the best in his retirement from the Public Service and as he continues to offer service to the community as a Crops Technician.

[Page 2427]

RESOLUTION NO. 1187

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Public Service continually strives for excellence in its work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Public Service Commission takes the time each year to say thanks through its Long Service Award Program to its long-serving members; and

Whereas Penny Chapman was recently recognized for her 25 years of dedicated work as an Accounting Clerk with the Province's Department of Natural Resources;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Belmont, Colchester County's Penny Chapman for her outstanding work with the Nova Scotia Government over the past quarter century and wish her well in the years ahead.

RESOLUTION NO. 1188

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the members of Nova Scotia Public Service continually strive for excellence in their work on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Eileen Linda Yorke, Administrative Assistant for the Cooperatives Branch, is one such provincial employee and was recently recognized for her 30 years of exceptional work with the Government of Nova Scotia's Department of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations; and

Whereas the Public Service of Nova Scotia contributes in a fundamental way to good government, to democracy and to society as a whole;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Eileen Linda Yorke of Debert, Colchester County for her outstanding commitment to the Nova Scotia Government over the past three decades and wish her all the best as she continues her work with the department.

[Page 2428]

RESOLUTION NO. 1189

By: Hon. Karen Casey (Interim Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's civil servants contribute to the prosperity of our province and provide high quality service to keep our families safe, our businesses growing and our communities thriving every single day; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards are a way to say thank you to those individuals who have committed so much of their lives to that level of excellence; and

Whereas B. Wade Langille is one such employee and was recently recognized for his 35 years of dedicated service through the province's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly applaud B. Wade Langille, Onslow Mountain for his three and a half decades of service to the people of this great province and wish him all the best as he continues in his work as an Engineering Aide.

RESOLUTION NO. 1190

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

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the Village of Baddeck, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 53, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 53 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both

[Page 2429]

past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1191

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

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Iona and surrounding area, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 124, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 124 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1192

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

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Ingonish, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 105, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

[Page 2430]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 105 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1193

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Frank Woodworth contributed to the team's success as the manager;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Frank Woodworth and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1194

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas John Prall contributed to the team's success as the coach;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate John Prall and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

[Page 2431]

RESOLUTION NO. 1195

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Ian Collins contributed to the team's success as the assistant coach;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Ian Collisn and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1196

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Sib Pye contributed to the team's success as the assistant coach;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Sib Pye and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1197

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

[Page 2432]

Whereas on June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Justin Halbersma contributed to the team's success as the statistician;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Justin Halbersma and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1198

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Gary Gallery contributed to the team's success as the trainer;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Gary Gallery and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1199

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Jamie Spinney contributed to the team's success as a player;

[Page 2433]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Jamie Spinney and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1200

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Colin Kendall contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Colin Kendall and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1201

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 June 6, 2009 the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Donald Chisholm contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Donald Chisholm and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

[Page 2434]

RESOLUTION NO. 1202

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Corey Bezanson contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Corey Bezanson and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1203

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Chad Bower contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Chad Bower and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1204

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

[Page 2435]

Whereas on June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Brad Connell contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Brad Connell and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1205

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Jarret Diggins contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Jarret Diggins and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1206

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Kevin Spidle contributed to the team's success as a player;

[Page 2436]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Kevin Spidle and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1207

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Mike Sweet contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Mike Sweet and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1208

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Mark Galley contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Mark Galley and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

[Page 2437]

RESOLUTION NO. 1209

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Jeremy Tracey contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Jeremy Tracey and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1210

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Colin Brewster contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Colin Brewster and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1211

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

[Page 2438]

Whereas on June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Craig Lutz contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Craig Lutz and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1212

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Jody Tracey contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Jody Tracey and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1213

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Chris Johnson contributed to the team's success as a player;

[Page 2439]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Chris Johnson and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1214

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Charlie Aalders contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Charlie Aalders and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1215

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Chris Salsman contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Chris Salsman and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

[Page 2440]

RESOLUTION NO. 1216

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Brad Carty contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Brad Carty and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1217

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 June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Adrian Comeau contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Adrian Comeau and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1218

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

[Page 2441]

Whereas on June 6, 2009, the annual Berwick Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place, celebrating both individual and team accomplishments; and

Whereas the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team was recognized for their Provincial AA Championships; and

Whereas Matt Hart contributed to the team's success as a player;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Matt Hart and his fellow members of the 1993-94 Central Kings Gators High School Hockey Team for their induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1219

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Cape Breton North)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the Town of North Sydney, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 19 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1220

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Cape Breton North)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the Town of Sydney Mines, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 8, and veterans and their families, will gather

[Page 2442]

to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 8 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1221

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Cape Breton North)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Florence, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 83, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 83 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1222

By: Mr. Alfie MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

[Page 2443]

Whereas Halloween is an exciting opportunity for children of all ages to dress up in scary and unique costumes, eat lots of candy, and stay out late; and

Whereas extra significance was added to this special day as children and their parents had the chance to attend the second annual Halloween Kids Fair in Sydney Forks, hosted by the 29 Sydney Kiwanis Royal Canadian Air Cadets; and

Whereas the event had prizes and giveaways, games, a caricature artist, a magician, and all kinds of food;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate members of the 29 Sydney Kiwanis Royal Canadian Air Cadets for hosting another successful event, while thanking them for their continued service to the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1223

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

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

Whereas the Maritime Inn in Port Hawkesbury has been long known for top-quality accommodation on Cape Breton Island, rated highest in the area for full-service lodging; and

Whereas the efforts of staff, along with General Manager Larry McLean, were recognized at the Small Business Week Dinner and Awards Gala, where the Maritime Inn received the Excellence in Business Award; and

Whereas tourism is a vital part of the Nova Scotia economy, and as a result, the importance of the Maritime Inn's top-notch service cannot be understated for the benefit it undoubtedly provides to this crucial sector;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Larry McLean, as well as all staff at the Maritime Inn, for winning the Excellence in Business Award and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1224

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

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

Whereas the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce honours the region's best and brightest entrepreneurs annually at the Small Business Week Dinner and Awards Gala; and

[Page 2444]

Whereas this year's celebration took place October 21st in Port Hawkesbury, and among the honourees were Ron and Joanne Schmidt of Port Hood, whose business, Galloping Cows Fine Foods, received the Export Achievement Award; and

Whereas Galloping Cows is a true Nova Scotia success story, having built a growing and successful business from nothing more than a goal and hard work, and for this the Schmidts are deserving recipients of this impressive award;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ron and Joanne Schmidt for being granted the Export Achievement Award and wish them many years of continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1225

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas Bridgewater's Empire Theatres, under the direction of Branch 24 of the Royal Canadian Legion, was home to a very special presentation, "A Time To Remember"; and

Whereas Legionnaire Dan Hennessey had a dream to preserve the memories of veterans to ensure generations to come would be able to appreciate the many sacrifices that our veterans made for our country; and

Whereas 18 veterans told their stories as Lighthouse Media Group, under the direction of Tim Reeves-Horton, recorded them to produce this legacy, "A Time To Remember";

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House congratulate Dan Hennessey for his vision in preserving a part of our history, Tim Reeves-Horton for the production of this DVD, and the 18 veterans who told their stories.

RESOLUTION NO. 1226

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas crime reporter Lisa Brown was recently honoured for her contributions against impaired driving; and

[Page 2445]

Whereas Ms. Brown received the national MADD media award, which recognizes media professionals and organizations for outstanding coverage and promotion of issues related to MADD Canada's mission statement; and

Whereas MADD President Margaret Miller said Ms. Brown's efforts to address the issues of impaired driving were commendable;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House congratulate Lisa Brown, Lighthouse Media Group's crime reporter and assistant editor, for her outstanding contributions to the fight against impaired driving.

RESOLUTION NO. 1227

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas Gary Archibald , Chair of the Western Counties Regional Library Board, has been named the 2009 recipient of the Norman Horrocks Award for Library Leadership, which is awarded to those who promote and develop library service in this province; and

Whereas Mr. Archibald has given the last 26 years of his life to the library community, which has benefited immeasurably from his efforts; and

Whereas in addition his tireless work on behalf of the library, the community spirit displayed by Gary is second to none, as he was also named 2008 Volunteer of the Year for the Municipality of the District of Yarmouth;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Gary Archibald on being awarded the 2009 Norman Horrocks Library Leadership Award, and commend him for his continued service to the Yarmouth area.

RESOLUTION NO. 1228

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas Cecil Roy of Yarmouth recently won the people's choice award at this year's Coastal Oldies Car Show in Shelburne, the second year in a row he was given this impressive title; and

[Page 2446]

Whereas the accomplishment of winning two years in a row is made even more impressive by the fact Cecil won with two different cars, first with a 1933 Dodge, and this year with a 1952 MG; and

Whereas Cecil is truly deserving of the success that comes his way, as a great deal of time and effort are continually being put into these impressive vehicles; and

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly acknowledge Mr. Roy not only for his achievement, but also for the excitement and entertainment his vehicles have brought to countless people in the tri-counties over the years.

RESOLUTION NO. 1229

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas Caitlynn Hamilton of Carleton, Yarmouth County, was recently named the recipient of the 2009 Yarmouth Hospital Foundation Scholarship; and

Whereas this award is presented annually to promising first year nursing students, in the amount of $5,000; and

Whereas Caitlynn had expressed her desire to remain in Yarmouth upon completion of her degree, proving immeasurable benefit to her community which, along with all areas of this province, are in need of more and more health care professionals to meet a growing demand;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Caitlynn Hamilton on receiving this impressive award, and wish her well as she continues her studies.

RESOLUTION NO. 1230

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Clippers Under 14 Tier 2 B Girls Soccer team won provincial championship honours in impressive fashion in Lunenburg in September; and

Whereas the Clippers in three round-robin games outscored their opponents 20-3 in going 3-0 and advancing to Sunday's championship game; and

[Page 2447]

Whereas in Sunday's championship game, the Clippers defeated the Strait United team from Port Hawkesbury by a score of 4-1 as Allie Munroe and Shayna Heroux both scored a pair of goals for the provincial champions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Yarmouth Clippers on winning the 2009 Nova Scotia Under 14 Tier 2 B Soccer Championship, while extending our many good wishes in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1231

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the Richmond Rize Under 18 girls volleyball team competed at the Canadian Open Volleyball Championships held in Ottawa, and faced some of the best teams in Canada; and

Whereas the Richmond Rize players had to raise $15,000 in only two months to attend the championships, and had the opportunity to take a tour of Ottawa with MP Rodger Cuzner; and

Whereas the Richmond Rize team consists of Chelsey LeFort, Paige Mavon, Rachelle Marchand, Charcy Britten-Boudreau, Marielle Landry, Mireille Landry, Nicole Sampson, Renee Samson, Jannick Boudreau, coach Phillip Gagnon, and assistant coach Chasta Boudreau;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the Richmond Rize Under 18 girls volleyball team for showing great strength of character and determination, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1232

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Richmond Academy hosted the Division 1 Highland Region Softball Championship in May; and

Whereas the Richmond Academy Hurricane boys softball team captured the Highland Region softball banner and competed at provincials in Lower Sackville; and

[Page 2448]

Whereas the team consists of Jeremy Fougere, Dougie Diggdon, Kyle Rogers, Daniel Collier, Brandon Boudreau, David Kennedy, Devin Landry, Jonathon Stone, Noel Jeffrey, Coady MacQuarrie, Kailum Rogers, D.J. Stone, and coaches Robert Crispo, Charles MacDonald, and Phil Samson;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Richmond Academy Hurricane boys softball team for winning the Division 1 Highland Region Softball Championship, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1233

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Richmond Academy hosted the Division 1 Highland Region Softball Championship in May; and

Whereas the Richmond Academy Hurricane girls softball team captured the Highland Region softball banner and competed at provincials in Lower Sackville; and

Whereas the team consists of Whitney Landry, Gioia Stanley, Erica Sampson, Delanie Martell, Amber MacIsaac, Jocelyn Marshall, Shelby Gerrior, Taylor Samson, Kelsey Frost, Carley Burke, Tiffany Stone, Sandi Burke, and Ashley Sampson, along with coaches Darren Stone and Lisa Sampson;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Richmond Academy Hurricane girls softball team for winning the Division 1 Highland Region Softball Championship, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1234

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the Richmond Amateur Baseball Association, RABA, is marking 40 years in the Strait area, this year consisting of teams from Little Anse, Louisdale, Petit-de-Grat, and two teams from Port Hawkesbury; and

Whereas the Petit-de-Grat Red Caps won the 2009 Richmond Amateur Baseball Association title, making it their 12th consecutive win; and

[Page 2449]

Whereas the team consists of Bruce Joshua, Shawn Boudreau, Richard Boudreau, Barry Marchand, Don Fougere, Ron Savoury, Mark Samson, Terry Samson, Maurice Boudreau, Real Boudreau, Laurier Samson, Hubert David, and Clayton Samson;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate the Petit-de-Grat Red Caps on winning the 2009 RABA title, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1235

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Dylan Landry of Louisdale is a student entering Grade 11 at Richmond Academy; and

Whereas Dylan Landry competed in his first Canada Games after a lengthy stretch of regional, national and international wrestling competitions; and

Whereas Dylan Landry finished 8th place in the up to 58 kilogram male division at the Canada Games;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Dylan Landry for his participation and excellent achievements at the Canada Games, and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1236

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the South Mountain Arm of Gold, a small community group in Richmond County with big spirit, received a prestigious provincial award; and

Whereas the South Mountain Arm of Gold received the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award for its interaction among residents; and

Whereas Lieutenant Governor Mayann Francis commended the South Mountain Arm of Gold Association for its efforts and said it represents a community that deserves to be held up as an example in the province;

[Page 2450]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize the South Mountain Arm of Gold Association for receiving the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1237

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas three dancers were chosen from six different age groups at the Nova Scotia Closed Championship, a selection meet which is a major competition that selects dancers to represent Nova Scotia at the ScotDance Canada Championships; and

Whereas the three dancers captured the silver medal at the ScotDance Canada championship series in Toronto on June 30th; and

Whereas the three dancers were Leah Campbell, Taylor MacQuarrie, and Micayla Matthews, who performed choreography and received silver against teams across Canada and Scotland;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Leah Campbell, Taylor MacQuarrie, and Micayla Matthews for their outstanding performance at the ScotDance Canada Championships.

RESOLUTION NO. 1238

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas West Richmond Education Center hosted recycling educator Paul Barry, who came to their school and worked with students and staff beginning with an audit followed by a recycling presentation; and

Whereas efforts on all levels at West Richmond Education Centre were a great success and "The Green Team" was presented with a certificate of merit; and

Whereas members of "The Green Team", Cassandra Landry, Haiden Clorey, Dawson Embree, Gregory Theriault, and Nikita O'Toole encouraged source separation and Recycling Right throughout the school at West Richmond Education Centre;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate "The Green Team" members for receiving a certificate of merit for encouraging and promoting recycling in their school.

RESOLUTION NO. 1239

By: Hon. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Dr. Lawrence MacNeil, chief of medical staff at St. Anne's Community and Nursing Care Centre in Arichat has been responsible for the region's medical needs for over 26 years; and

Whereas Dr. Lawrence MacNeil was recently named Rural Physician of the Year, which is given to a physician who has made an outstanding contribution to the health of individuals, community groups, and/or non-profit organizations in rural communities; and

Whereas Dr. Lawrence MacNeil received the Family Physician of the Year Award from the Nova Scotia College of Family Physicians, which recognizes outstanding family physician members who exemplify the best of what being a family doctor is all about, including exceptional care of patients combined with a significant contribution to the health and well-being of communities and/or society in general;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize Dr. Lawrence MacNeil as being an outstanding family physician who often singlehandedly cared for more than 5,000 residents in the Isle Madame and surrounding area for over 26 years and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1240

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Cape Breton North)

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

Whereas a trade mission organized by Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation, while in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, will witness the departure of the Cape Breton Island Clipper as it begins the second leg of The Clipper 2009-10 Round the World Yacht Race; and

Whereas this effort to combine sport, culture and business through The Clipper Race project is really starting to pay off as a means of discovering import and export opportunities between Brazil and Cape Breton; and

[Page 2452]

Whereas the mission, like previous ones to France and the United Kingdom, will bring Brazilian and Canadian businesses in Rio and Cape Breton closer together;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in lending our support to a successful outcome of this trade mission.

RESOLUTION NO. 1241

By: Hon. Cecil Clarke (Cape Breton North)

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

Whereas Brenda Jessome, Chair of the 25th edition of the St. Stephen's Parish Fall Fair in Florence, and her volunteers, worked tirelessly to achieve a very successful and fun event that was held on October 17th; and

Whereas this was the largest fundraiser of the year for the parish as it continues its service to God and community; and

Whereas the fair provided good-natured socializing for the community and co-operation for residents, and all funds are used for worthwhile projects of St. Stephen's;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in congratulating St. Stephen's for 25 years of memorable Fall fairs and wish them continued success in the future as they build community through strengthened faith.

RESOLUTION NO. 1242

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Springhill, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 17, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

[Page 2453]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 17 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1243

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Maccan, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 134, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 134 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1244

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Oxford, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 36, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

[Page 2454]

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 36 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1245

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Joggins, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 4, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 4 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1246

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of River Hebert, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 14, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

[Page 2455]

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 14 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1247

By: Hon. Murray Scott (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas Sam and Anna Anjoul came from Lebanon to Canada on June 13, 1976 to make a better life for themselves and to have the opportunity to thrive and succeed in business; and

Whereas Sam and Anna have operated Anna's Grill since 1980, in Scotia Square, and since 2008 in their new location at 1820 Hollis Street; and

Whereas Sam and Anna always welcome their patrons with a warm, friendly greeting and deliver healthy meals at reasonable prices;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Sam and Anna Anjoul on their hard work, dedication and embodying the finest qualities that immigrants can bring to our province, and wish them all the success in the future with their business, Anna's Grill.

RESOLUTION NO. 1248

By: Mr. Alfie MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of East Bay, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 151, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

[Page 2456]

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 151 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1249

By: Mr. Alfie MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Louisbourg along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 12, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 12 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1250

By: Mr. Alfie MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Donkin, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 05, and veterans and their families, will

[Page 2457]

gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 05 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1251

By: Mr. Alfie MacLeod (Cape Breton West)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the community of Port Morien, along with members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 55, and veterans and their families, will gather to remember all those who served in the Canadian military during world wars, other conflicts, and peacekeeping missions; and

Whereas those who perished, along with those who returned, deserve our greatest respect for their tremendous commitment to our country and fellow Canadians; and

Whereas we should always remember that the freedoms and rights we enjoy in this country are as a result of the efforts of the brave women and men who served our country so selflessly;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature thank Branch 55 of the Royal Canadian Legion as we pay tribute to our Canadian military, both past and present, and assure them that we will never forget the tremendous price they paid for all of us.

RESOLUTION NO. 1252

By: Mr. Brian Skabar (Cumberland North)

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

[Page 2458]

Whereas Amherst became home to Nova Scotia's best female high school golfer when Kaitlyn Dawson, age 17, carded a 13-over par 85 and won gold at the NSSAF golf championship on September 28th; and

Whereas Kaitlyn, a Grade 12 student at Amherst Regional High School, proudly and effectively upheld the school's long-standing reputation for excellence in sports and athletics; and

Whereas Kaitlyn's gold medal represents years of hard work, diligence and commitment and these qualities will contribute to her success as a senior at ARHS and in the years to follow;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Kaitlyn on her gold medal win and wish her good luck in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1253

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Colchester North)

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

Whereas the Grade 3/4 class at Fanning Education Centre in Hazel Hill has been chosen to participate in the Square Foot Garden pilot project sponsored by the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture; and

Whereas students will plant, tend and harvest a small food garden in their classroom; and

Whereas students will be encouraged to think about food, where it comes from and how food choices influence their health;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate the Grade 3/4 class at Fanning Education Centre on being chosen to participate in piloting the Square Foot Garden project, and wish them the very best for future success with their gardening project and their studies.

RESOLUTION NO. 1254

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Colchester North)

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

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Whereas Fraser Cook is the new owner of Cook's cafe in Guysborough, which opened on Monday, July 27, 2009; and

Whereas Cook's cafe is a gas station, Robin's Coffee shop, small convenience store and U-Haul dealership, which celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, October 24th; and

Whereas the Cook family has again demonstrated its commitment to building a stronger small business community in the Guysborough area with this latest venture;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Fraser Cook and his family on the grand opening of his new business in Guysborough with the very best wishes for future success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1255

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Colchester North)

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

Whereas Father Daniel Boudreau has served as a Roman Catholic parish priest since June 1999, in Canso and surrounding areas; and

Whereas Father Daniel Boudreau has served as a spiritual leader for the parishes of Star of the Sea in Canso, St. Agnes in Little Dover, St. Vincent de Paul in Queensport and St. Joseph's in Port Felix; and

Whereas a celebration will be held at the Canso Lion's Club on November 22nd to thank Father Daniel Boudreau for his dedication and years of service to the people of his parishes and the community as a whole;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature recognize the service and spiritual support, which was provided to each respective parish by Father Daniel Boudreau, and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1256

By: Ms. Becky Kent (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas muscular dystrophy is a disorder that causes muscles in the body to gradually decline and weaken; it is hereditary and progressive and over time many people are unable to walk, speak or ultimately breathe; and

[Page 2460]

Whereas there are many forms of neuromuscular disorders and more than 50,000 Canadians are affected; there are over 40 chapters across Canada and with the support of volunteers and donors they work toward their mission to eliminate neuromuscular disorders and make life richer and more rewarding for Canadians; and

Whereas on June 13, 2009 the Halifax walk for muscular dystrophy raised $50,000; one of 14 Walk for Muscular Dystrophy events that were held in Atlantic Canada this year raising more than $185,000 to provide the mobility equipment, education and services needed by families affected by the weakness and wasting of muscle for which there is no cure;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the Halifax Walk for Muscular Dystrophy committee members Rebecca Bourbonnais, John Brookbank, Peter Arnburg, Earl Buffett, Phil Diochon, Melissa Grant, Wayne Holland and Bruce Mitchell, and thank them for their dedication in raising awareness and trying to make life better for people living with muscular dystrophy.

RESOLUTION NO. 1257

By: Hon. John MacDonell (Agriculture)

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

Whereas at a young age Grace Dorothy Jodrey married Frank Osborne Conrad, claiming "he just wouldn't stop asking, so I finally said yes", and began a family which would grow to seven children; and

Whereas Grace and Frank established Coniridge Farm in Lower Wolfville and became well known for supporting the community and for having a home where the door was always open; and

Whereas Grace Conrad, known for her incredible strength, beat several serious health issues in her elder years, continued to enjoy her large family, continued to steadily win games of 45s, and lived to the wonderful age of 91, passing away on October 3, 2009, exactly 11 years and minutes after her husband Frank;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join me in extending our condolences to the entire Conrad family on the loss of their beloved matriarch and long-time respected farmer and member of the community.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1258

By: Mr. Gary Ramey (Lunenburg West)

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

Whereas Branch 24 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Bridgewater is an integral and important part of the community fabric, doing very good work for the citizenry of the region; and

Whereas Branch 24 of the Royal Canadian Legion recently launched a CD project, entitled Time to Remember, which featured 18 Second World War Veterans recounting their experiences overseas during that worldwide conflict; and

Whereas the CD will be viewed by over 2,000 Lunenburg County students at Empire Theatres in Bridgewater over the next few days, acquainting these young people with the horrors of war, the trials and tribulations endured in those times, and the joys and sorrows visited on men and women who many years ago were very much like these students and are now heroes among them;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Mr. Dan Hennessey, chairperson, Public Relations for Branch 24 of the Royal Canadian Legion, for conceiving the idea and Tim Reeves-Horton, Lighthouse Publishing, the DesBrisay Museum and Empire Theatres for helping to make this important historical vignette, Time to Remember, become a reality.

RESOLUTION NO. 1259

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 environment and its protection are vital to the sustainability of our planet; and

Whereas Jan MacAuley founded Healthful Homes Realty to promote energy efficiency, occupant health and sustainability; and

Whereas Healthful Homes Realty was recognized as an innovator and trailblazer by winning the Silver Award in the New Business Category from the Halifax Chamber of Commerce;

[Page 2462]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jan MacAuley of Healthful Homes Realty for establishing an environmentally responsible business which offers greener solutions to homeowners.

RESOLUTION NO. 1260

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 Bragg Group was founded in 1968 by John Bragg with the opening of Oxford Frozen Foods and related businesses; and

Whereas the company has expanded over the years to include telecommunications, building supply and environmental divisions; and

Whereas the Bragg Group of Companies was recently named the Nova Scotia Family Enterprise of the Year by the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise, which pays tribute to the achievements of the most successful family-run firms in the province;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Bragg Group on this wonderful achievement, and wish them many more years of success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1261

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 November is Diabetes Awareness Month; and

Whereas the prevalence of diabetes has increased in Nova Scotia by 20 per cent over the past five years, with over 5,800 new cases being diagnosed each year; and

Whereas by next year it is estimated that diabetes will cost the Canadian health care system $15.6 billion annually, a number that is expected to rise to $19.2 billion by 2020;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this Legislature acknowledge November as Diabetes Awareness Month and pledge ourselves to investing in diabetes management, so as to produce both short- and long-term benefits for individuals and our health care system.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1262

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 community groups and organizations in our province would not be able to continue their work without the commitment and dedication of volunteers; and

Whereas on May 24, 2009, the Halifax Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its annual Community Champion Awards Dinner to recognize outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas Christine Linders has been recognized by the committee for the dedication she has shown as a volunteer at Ecole Burton Ettinger School;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Christine Linders for the tremendous contributions she has made to supporting school life and quality education, and wish her continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1263

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 many community groups and organizations in our province would not be able to continue their work without the commitment and dedication of volunteers; and

Whereas on May 24, 2009, the Halifax Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its annual Community Champion Awards Dinner to recognize outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas Jean Turner was recognized at the event for her years of volunteering at Fairview United Church, with the Girl Guides of Canada, and with many other community organizations;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Jean Turner on receiving this award for the tremendous contributions she has made to improving our community and enriching the lives of others.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1264

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 community groups and organizations in our province would not be able to continue their work without the commitment and dedication of volunteers; and

Whereas on May 24, 2009, the Halifax Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its annual Community Champion Awards Dinner to recognize outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas Laura Arab was recognized at the event for the commitment and dedication she has shown as a volunteer at the Diman Association of Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Laura Arab for the tremendous contributions she has made as a volunteer in improving the strength of our community and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1265

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 community groups and organizations in our province would not be able to continue their work without the commitment and dedication of volunteers; and

Whereas on May 24, 2009, the Halifax Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its annual Community Champion Awards Dinner to recognize outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas Pat Leader has been recognized by the committee for the dedication she has shown as a volunteer with the Halifax Northwest Trails Association and many other organizations;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Pat Leader for the tremendous contributions she has made to improving our community and wish her continued success.

[Page 2465]

RESOLUTION NO. 1266

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 community groups and organizations in our province would not be able to continue their work without the commitment and dedication of volunteers; and

Whereas on May 24, 2009, the Halifax Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its annual Community Champion Awards Dinner to recognize outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas Shelley Kelly was recognized at the event for the commitment and dedication she has shown as a volunteer at Ecole Grosvenor Wentworth Park School and Clayton Park Junior High;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Shelley Kelly for the outstanding contributions she has made to supporting school life and quality education, and wish her continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1267

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 community groups and organizations in our province would not be able to continue their work without the commitment and dedication of volunteers; and

Whereas on May 24, 2009, the Halifax Mainland North Volunteer Recognition Committee held its annual Community Champion Awards Dinner to recognize outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas Sherri Ball was recognized at the event for the commitment and dedication she has shown as a volunteer at Ecole Grosvenor Wentworth Park School;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Sherri Ball for the outstanding contributions she has made to supporting school life and quality education and wish her continued success.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1268

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 106-day Olympic Torch Relay will visit more than 1,030 communities in every province and territory across Canada on its way to Vancouver, British Columbia, for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games; and

Whereas Jack Waller, a resident of Halifax Clayton Park, has been selected by RBC to carry the torch as part of this historic relay; and

Whereas Jack Waller is a tremendous volunteer who generously donates his time to a wide variety of events across metro, including the Atlantic Jazz Festival and Operation Red Nose;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly extend congratulations to Jack Waller for being chosen for the Olympic Torch run in Halifax on November 20, 2009, and thank him for being a dedicated volunteer.

RESOLUTION NO. 1269

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 on October 30, 2009, the Cape Breton District Health Authority held a one-day conference on Living with Mental Illness; and

Whereas the speakers gave voice on behalf of themselves and their families about the frustrations, fears, challenges, and hope of living with mental illness; and

Whereas Keith Anderson of Sydney courageously shared his story with the 600 in attendance to help them understand depression and to break down the misconceptions that exist;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House offer their congratulations to Keith Anderson for standing up for improved public understanding of mental health and wish him well in his future endeavours.

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RESOLUTION NO. 1270

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 FUSION Halifax was formed in 2007 as a networking group for people between the ages of 20 and 40; and

Whereas FUSION has grown to over 1,300 members who participate in events focused on the arts, health and wellness, sustainability, and diversity; and

Whereas Alyson Queen was one of the founding members of FUSION and has served as Chair of the group for 2008-09;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Alyson Queen on the significant contribution she has made in her year as Chair of FUSION Halifax and wish her every success in the future.

NOTICES OF QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN ANSWERS

Given November 5, 2009

(Pursuant to Rule 30)

QUESTION NO. 2

By: Mr. Chuck Porter

To: Hon. Graham Steele (Minister responsible for the Securities Act)

The Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada recently reported that of the $5.6 million in fines levied across Canada between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009, only $480,000 was actually paid. You are one of the Finance Ministers from across Canada appointed by the federal government to review a single securities regulator. Right now, self-regulatory investment watchdog organizations like the Mutual Fund Dealers Association and the Investment Industry Regulator Organization do not have any judicial enforcement mechanism to be able to go to court and collect outstanding fines.

  • Is this something that you will support in your discussions?

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QUESTION NO. 3

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

To: Hon. John MacDonell (Minister of Agriculture)

This past Sunday and Monday the Minister of Agriculture met with his Atlantic Canadian counterparts, in part to discuss the serious issues facing beef farmers.

  • Can the minister outline to this House today the concrete solutions for beef farmers that came out of this meeting?

QUESTION NO. 4

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

To: Hon. William Estabrooks (Energy)

Mr. Speaker, further to my questions yesterday concerning the Québec Hydro buyout of N.B. Power and the regional grid concerns associated with the Lower Churchill development, concerning the Atlantic Energy Gateway:

  • Can the minister inform this House what specific actions he's taken and discussions he has had with the Government of Canada to advance the Atlantic Energy Gateway?

QUESTION 5

By: Hon. K. Casey (Colchester North)

To: Hon. M. More (Education)

Nova Scotia's Grade 12 mathematics examination results are continuing to improve. This is good news and a credit to our public school program, our teachers and our students have been improving over the last three years.

The report of the 2008 results shows that 51 per cent of Nova Scotia students passed the Math 12 examination and 70 per cent passed the Advanced Math 12 examination. This is an increase of 25 per cent in Math 12 and 6 per cent in Advanced Math 12. This is a reflection of a specific focus within the department that included resources to support math mentors in our schools.

  • What is the status of Math mentors in our schools now as compared to 2007-08?