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/
| TABLE OF CONTENTS | PAGE | |||
| PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS: | ||||
| Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Hon. M. Scott | 943 | |||
| TIR: MVI - Annual, Hon. W. Estabrooks | 944 | |||
| TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS: | ||||
| Elections N.S.: Antigonish & Inverness By-elections | ||||
| - Vote/Fin. Info, The Speaker | 944 | |||
| GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION: | ||||
| Res. 427, Nat'l. Victims of Crime Awareness Wk. (4/18 - 4/24/10): | ||||
| Victims - Respect, Hon. R. Landry | 944 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 945 | |||
| Res. 428, Vol. Wk. (4/18 - 4/24/10): Vols. - Recognize/Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. M. More (by Hon. W. Estabrooks) | 945 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 946 | |||
| Res. 429, TIR - Fairview Overpass: Completion - Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. W. Estabrooks | 946 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 946 | |||
| Res. 430, Donor Awareness Wk. (4/18 - 4/24/10) - Recognize, | ||||
| Hon. Maureen MacDonald | 947 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 947 | |||
| Res. 431, O'Ree, Willie: Order of Can. - Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. P. Paris | 947 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 948 | |||
| Res. 432, Veinot, Sherry: Lun. Mun. Vol. of Yr. - Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. R. Jennex | 948 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 949 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | ||||
| Affirmative | 950 | |||
| INTRODUCTION OF BILLS: | ||||
| No. 35, Finance Act, Hon. G. Steele | 950 | |||
| No. 36, Engineering Profession Act, Hon. R. Landry | 950 | |||
| NOTICES OF MOTION: | ||||
| Res. 434, Natl. Vol. Wk. (04/18-04/24/10) Acknowledge, | ||||
| Hon. W. Gaudet | 950 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 951 | |||
| Res. 435, Educ. Wk.: Time/Resources - Commit, | ||||
| Hon. K. Casey | 951 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 951 | |||
| Res. 436, Giffen, Len: Milford & Dist. Lions Club Serv. (40 Yrs.) | ||||
| - Congrats., Hon. J. MacDonell | 952 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 952 | |||
| Res. 437, Com. Serv. Min.: Cabinet Income Tax Cut - Justify, | ||||
| Hon. Manning MacDonald | 952 | |||
| Res. 438, St. James Presbyterian Church (Big Bras d'Or): Fundraising | ||||
| - Congrats., Mr. K. Bain | 953 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 953 | |||
| Res. 439, Crowell, Lynne: Music - Dedication Applaud, | ||||
| Hon. S. Belliveau | 954 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 954 | |||
| Res. 440, Educ. Wk. - Recognize, | ||||
| Mr. A. Younger | 954 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 955 | |||
| Res. 441, Timberlea-Prospect/Cumberland South MLAs: | ||||
| Hockey Wager - Outcome, Hon. M. Scott | 955 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 956 | |||
| Res. 442, Benoît, Jamie: Prix d'excellence Bonjour! - Félicitations, | ||||
| Mr. L. Preyra | 956 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 957 | |||
| Res. 443, Woodworth, Jean: Bedford Adult Vol. of Yr. (2010) | ||||
| - Congrats., Ms. K. Regan | 958 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 958 | |||
| Res. 444, Cumb. Co. Blues: Jr. B. Hockey League Championship | ||||
| - Congrats., Hon. M. Scott | 958 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 959 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | ||||
| Affirmative | 960 | |||
| Res. 446, Johnson-Thompson, Ms. Kerri: East Preston Day Care Ctr. | ||||
| - Work (10 Yrs.), Hon. K. Colwell | 960 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 961 | |||
| Res. 447, LeBlanc, Ruth: Argyle Mun. Vol. of Yr. - Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. C. d'Entremont | 961 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 961 | |||
| Res. 448, Kentville Silver Gliders Skating Club - Anniv. (50th), | ||||
| Mr. J. Morton | 962 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 962 | |||
| Res. 449, Gillis, Father Joe: Dedication/Serv. - Thank, | ||||
| Mr. A. MacLeod | 962 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 963 | |||
| Res. 450, Soil Conservation Coun. (Can.): Importance - Recognize, | ||||
| Mr. L. Glavine | 963 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 964 | |||
| Res. 451, Sherbrooke Women's Instit. - Birthday (95th), | ||||
| Mr. J. Boudreau | 964 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 964 | |||
| Res. 452, Gullage, Rachel: Bedford Youth Vol. of Yr. (2010) | ||||
| - Congrats., Ms. K. Regan | 965 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 966 | |||
| Res. 453, Simpson, Emma: Essay Contest/Fundraising - Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. C. Clarke | 966 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 966 | |||
| Res. 454, TIR Min.: Cabinet Income Tax Cut - Justify, | ||||
| Hon. K. Colwell | 967 | |||
| Res. 455, Belliveau, Mike: Commun. Leadership Awards - Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. K. Casey | 967 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 968 | |||
| Res. 456, Natl. Organ & Tissue Donor Awareness Wk. (4/18 - 4/24/10) | ||||
| - Acknowledge, Ms. D. Whalen | 968 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 969 | |||
| Res. 457, Aiken, Bruce & Gloria Jean: C.B. Drum Fest. - Organization, | ||||
| Hon. A. MacLeod | 969 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 970 | |||
| Res. 458, Comeau, Simon: Médaille de l'érable - Félicitations, | ||||
| Hon. W. Gaudet | 970 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 971 | |||
| Res. 459, Williamson, Chief Harold/Scotchtown FD: Fundraising | ||||
| - Congrats., Mr. K. Bain | 971 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 972 | |||
| Res. 460, Maine, Alex - Haliwards: Organization - Congrats., | ||||
| Ms. D. Whalen | 972 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 972 | |||
| Res. 461, Agric. Min.: Cabinet Income Tax Cut - Justify, | ||||
| Mr. L. Glavine | 973 | |||
| GOVERNMENT BUSINESS: | ||||
| GOVERNMENT MOTIONS: | ||||
| ON MOTION FOR SUPPLY: | ||||
| Mr. L. Glavine | 973 | |||
| Hon. C. Clarke | 976 | |||
| HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON SUPPLY AT 5:25 P.M. | 982 | |||
| HOUSE RECONVENED AT 9:39 P.M. | 982 | |||
| ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Tue., Apr. 20th at 12 noon | 982 | |||
| NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3): | ||||
| Res. 462, Col. Big Brothers Big Sisters: Kid-n-Kops - Success Congrats., | ||||
| Hon. K. Casey | 983 | |||
| Res. 463, McMaster, Doug: Col. North PC Assoc. Vol. of Yr. (2010) | ||||
| - Congrats., Hon. K. Casey | 983 | |||
| Res. 464, Skidmore, Jeremy: Studies/Basketball - Well Wishes, | ||||
| Hon. C. d'Entremont | 984 | |||
| Res. 465, Favraro, Eric/Team - E. Coast Music Assoc. Awards/Conf.: | ||||
| Organization - Congrats., Hon. C. Clarke | 984 | |||
HALIFAX, MONDAY, APRIL 19, 2010
Sixty-first General Assembly
Second Session
4:00 P.M.
SPEAKER
Hon. Charlie Parker
DEPUTY SPEAKERS
Mr. Gordon Gosse, Hon. Wayne Gaudet, Mr. Alfie MacLeod
MR. SPEAKER: I call today's session of the House to order. Welcome back for a new week.
We will begin the daily routine.
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cumberland South.
HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, this will be day 15 of this session, another day of broken promises as a result of this headline, which says, "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises," which I know is happening there because of a petition in Cumberland County. The prayer says:
"We, the residents of Cumberland County implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland County!"
It is signed by 159 people, bringing the total to 1,165. I have affixed my signature to the petition.
MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.
The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.
HON. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition signed by 115 residents of Nova Scotia:
"We, the undersigned residents of Nova Scotia, draw the attention of the Legislature of Nova Scotia to the following: Return motor vehicle inspections back to annualy [sic]. Motor vehicle inspections is [sic] only a snapshot at that time, it does not show what might or has happened in 18 months time. Some cars barely pass the inspection for a one year sticker let alone a 2 year sticker."
There are 115 Nova Scotians who have signed this petition and I have affixed my signature.
MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS
MR. SPEAKER: Honourable members, I have the privilege of tabling a report, Statement of Votes & Financial Information, from Elections Nova Scotia for the Antigonish and Inverness By-elections, October 20, 2009.
The report is tabled.
STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.
RESOLUTION NO. 427
HON. ROSS LANDRY: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas across Nova Scotia, hundreds of people seek help from victim services in our province every year; and
Whereas services for victims of crimes are available across the province by professionals as well as other volunteers who work tirelessly and selflessly with victims of crime and their families; and
Whereas this week National Victims of Crime Awareness Week is being celebrated across Canada from April 18th to April 24th;
Therefore be it resolved that this House agree that every victim of crime, no matter where they live or the way in which they were victimized, should be treated with respect.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.
RESOLUTION NO. 428
HON. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable Minister of Volunteerism, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on April 12th more than 70 Nova Scotians were honoured at the 36th Annual Provincial Volunteer Awards; and
Whereas we are particularly proud of our province's youth volunteers such as Steven Dooley and Samantha Nielsen of the Halifax Regional Municipality, Emma Simpson of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, and Gillian Bond of Chester; and
Whereas our province has one of the highest rates of volunteerism in Canada, with more than 500,000 Nova Scotians giving generously of their time, skills and experience to ensure their fellow citizens enjoy a high quality of life in their communities;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize and congratulate volunteers in Nova Scotia as we mark Volunteer Week from April 18th to April 24th.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.
RESOLUTION NO. 429
HON. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Fairview Overpass, used daily by 50,000 commuters, is fully operational again; and
Whereas this overpass construction was identified by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal staff as an important and necessary project for safety reasons; and
Whereas commuters from throughout the region have demonstrated patience during this reconstruction period;
Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate all involved with the Fairview Overpass replacement project and thank commuters for their patience.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Health.
RESOLUTION NO. 430
HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas more than 120 Nova Scotians are waiting for an organ transplant that will save their lives, and a single donor can provide life-saving organs to as many as eight people and life-enhancing tissue to as many as 40 people; and
Whereas input is now being sought from Nova Scotians on the draft Act for Human Organ and Tissue Donation, which will update the Human Tissue Gift Act; and
Whereas during the week of April 18th to April 25th, a variety of events are being held throughout the province to raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donation, and encourage Nova Scotians to join the more than 510,000 current donors and sign up to be donors through their health cards;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize April 18th to April 25th as Donor Awareness Week in Nova Scotia, and thank the committed professionals in our province who work tirelessly in the field of organ and tissue donation and the more than 510,000 Nova Scotians who are now registered as donors.
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 African Nova Scotian Affairs.
RESOLUTION NO. 431
HON. PERCY PARIS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Fredericton-born Willie O'Ree is often referred to as the Jackie Robinson of hockey because he is the first person of African descent to play in the National Hockey League; and
Whereas on January 18, 1958, Mr. O'Ree broke the NHL's colour barrier when he made his professional hockey debut with the Boston Bruins; and
Whereas Mr. O'Ree was bestowed with the Order of Canada on Wednesday, April 7th by the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Mr. Willie O'Ree for being a proud recipient of the Order of Canada, and acknowledge the many athletic contributions he made as a talented NHL player and the lasting legacy he leaves for aspiring African Nova Scotian athletes.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
[4:15 p.m.]
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Emergency Management.
RESOLUTION NO. 432
HON. RAMONA JENNEX: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Sherry Veinot has been chosen to represent the Municipality of Lunenburg as its Volunteer of the Year; and
Whereas Ms. Veinot has served with the Lunenburg County Ground Search and Rescue for 22 years, as well as with Victim Services for both the RCMP and Bridgewater Police Service for 15 years; and
Whereas Ms. Veinot makes a significant, valuable contribution to her community;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Ms. Sherry Veinot on being chosen to represent the Municipality of Lunenburg as Volunteer of the Year and express appreciation for her years of volunteer service.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Premier.
RESOLUTION NO. 433
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 government is dedicated to a cleaner, greener future for Nova Scotia; and
Whereas we have begun Earth Week and each April 22nd is Earth Day, a day in which Nova Scotians join more than a billion people around the world in activities that address local environmental issues; and
Whereas Earth Day is also a time of hope and positive action as we personally reflect on what each of us can do to make an environmentally better world;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House encourage all Nova Scotians to participate in Earth Day events and recommit to making their daily lives greener to ensure a secure future 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.
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
Bill No. 35 - Entitled an Act Respecting Provincial Financial Administration. (Hon. Graham Steele)
Bill No. 36 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 148 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Engineering Profession Act. (Hon. Ross Landry)
MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that these bills be read a second time on a future day.
NOTICES OF MOTION
The honourable member for Clare.
RESOLUTION NO. 434
HON. WAYNE GAUDET: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas April 18th to April 24th is designated as National Volunteer Week; and
Whereas volunteers are found in communities throughout Nova Scotia serving as firefighters, search and rescue workers, organizers, builders, aid and community support workers, coaches, and mentors; and
Whereas informal and formal volunteer contributions to Nova Scotia have been recently valued at $1.8 billion in services to our economy, making their efforts invaluable when it comes to strengthening both the social and economic fabric of our communities;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly acknowledge April 18th to 24th as National Volunteer Week, and extend our appreciation to Nova Scotia's volunteers who donate their valuable time and energy to make our province an even better place to live.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.
RESOLUTION NO. 435
HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas April 18th marks the beginning of Education Week, which is intended to raise awareness about the public school system; and
Whereas this year's theme is Equity in Education: Supporting all Students; and
Whereas the importance of a strong education system cannot be underestimated, as it is the foundation of a healthy and prosperous society;
Therefore be it resolved all members of this House of Assembly take this week as an opportunity to commit the time and resources needed to make Nova Scotia's education system one of the strongest and most accessible in the world.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Agriculture.
RESOLUTION NO. 436
HON. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas volunteers are crucial to improving the quality of life in communities; and
Whereas service organizations such as the Lions Club have long been instrumental in focusing the energies and talents of volunteers; and
Whereas on January 30, 2010, Len Giffen was recognized by the Milford and District Lions Club for 40 years of combined service to the Milford and Shubenacadie Lions Clubs;
Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Len Giffen of the Milford and District Lions Club for his 40 years of volunteerism, and thank him for his selfless service.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Cape Breton South.
RESOLUTION NO. 437
HON. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas it has been confirmed that the Minister of Finance provided the Premier and Cabinet colleagues with a sizeable income tax cut by eliminating the surtax on Nova Scotians making more than $83,000 per year; and
Whereas this NDP budget is paying for the income tax cut by raising the HST, while providing no income tax relief to the majority of Nova Scotians, forcing the middle class and working poor to pay for the tax cut of the honourable Minister of Community Services; and
Whereas this NDP Government has clearly thrown the working poor and middle-class income earners of Nova Scotia under the Dexter bus, creating a "bitter deal for today's families";
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly implore the honourable Minister of Community Services to explain to the people of Nova Scotia and her constituents why she deserves this income tax cut while the middle class and working poor shoulder the burden of this government's ill-conceived tax regime.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Victoria-The Lakes.
RESOLUTION NO. 438
MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas St. James Presbyterian Church in Big Bras d'Or recently made a $1,000 donation to the Cape Breton Cancer Centre expansion fund; and
Whereas the church raised this money by hosting a "bridal fashion of yesteryear" show and tea; and
Whereas all funds raised will assist in providing comprehensive health care while helping to improve the lives of those affected with cancer;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate all members of St. James Presbyterian Church on their volunteer fundraising efforts.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture
HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Barrington singer/songwriter Lynne Crowell has made a lifetime dedication to music enriching the lives of many people over the past 31 years through her community spirit and involvement; and
Whereas Lynne Crowell's musical talents and contributions as a singer, songwriter, performer and producer earned her an induction into the Nova Scotia Music Hall of Fame on September 15, 2007; and
Whereas Lynne Crowell was honoured by her peers at an appreciation night on October 17, 2009 for the many years of dedicated service she has given the community;
Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly applaud Barrington singer/songwriter Lynne Crowell for her lifetime dedication to music that has enriched the lives of many people over the past 31 years through her community spirit and involvement.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Dartmouth East.
RESOLUTION NO. 440
MR. ANDREW YOUNGER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas this week is designated Education Week in an effort to provide information about the public education system; and
Whereas this year's theme "Equity in Education: Supporting All Students" highlights the need to ensure that our most vulnerable students are not left behind in the public school system; and
Whereas we all have an important role to play in ensuring equity in education across the province;
Therefore be it resolved that this House recognize Education Week and congratulate our educators and public school employees on the work they provide in communities across Nova Scotia and work with them to ensure that we help all students meet their full potential.
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.
RESOLUTION NO. 441
HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Cumberland County Blues defeated the St. Margaret's Bay Ducks in four straight games to become the 2009-10 Nova Scotia Junior B Hockey League champions; and
Whereas I, a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the MLA for Timberlea-Prospect, a fan of the Boston Bruins, had a wager on whose team would be victorious in these championships; and
Whereas the MLA for Timberlea-Prospect is now sporting an exceptionally nice tie from a great team in the National Hockey League, the Toronto Maple Leafs;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly agree that the MLA for Timberlea-Prospect looks very good in blue and he should consider wearing it more often and congratulate him on being such a good sport and a man of his word. (Laughter)
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.
MR. LEONARD PREYRA: Mr. Speaker, over the past several months you have made it possible for some of us, on both sides of the House, to take lessons in French - I should say both sides of the House and at the Table in the middle as well - and our teacher Rahim Sairi tried very hard to teach us French. (Laughter) He is a principal in Sackville and in honour of Mr. Sairi, I would like to do this resolution in French.
MR. SPEAKER: Oui.
RESOLUTION NO. 442
MR. LEONARD PREYRA: M. le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:
Attendu que des coordonnateurs des services en français et un champion des services en français ont été honorés le 23 mars 2010 lors de la remise des Prix d'excellence Bonjour! pour les services en français à Halifax;
Attendu que les prix reconnaissent les contributions exceptionnelles à l'élaboration et à la prestation des programmes et des services en français par les employés du gouvernement de la Nouvelle-Écosse et Jamie Benoît, d'Halifax est l'un des lauréats;
Attendu que les services en français en Nouvelle-Écosse sont une nécessité car ils permettent aux Acadiens et aux francophones d'avoir accès à l'information sur les grands moments de la vie dans leur langue maternelle;
Par conséquent, il est résolu que les membres de cette Assemblée félicitent Jamie Benoît d'Halifax, webmestre de Services Nouvelle-Écosse et Relations avec les municipalités, pour avoir obtenu un prix Bonjour! pour le rôle qu'il a joué dans le développement et l'adaptation des services en ligne en français.
M. le Président, je demande l'adoption de cette résolution.
[4:30 p.m.]
Mr. Speaker, for those who are fluently bilingual but who may not have understood that resolution, I'll do it in English.
Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas French language services co-ordinators and a French language service champion were recognized on March 23, 2010, at the Bonjour! Awards for Excellence in French-language Services in Halifax; and
Whereas the awards recognize outstanding contributions to the development and delivery of French language programs and services by employees of the Government of Nova Scotia, and Jamie Benoit of Halifax was one of this year's recipients; and
Whereas services in French in Nova Scotia are a necessity - it means that Acadians and francophones can access information about life events in their maternal language;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate Jamie Benoit of Halifax, a webmaster for Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, on winning a Bonjour! Award for the key role he has played in helping develop and adapt French language on-line.
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. 443
MS. KELLY REGAN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Jean Woodworth was honoured on Sunday, April 18th, as Bedford's Adult Volunteer of the Year; and
Whereas Jean is well-known in her community with more than 50 years of volunteering for the Bedford Baptist Church, including three years as a church deacon, and more than 35 years as a member of the Friendship Circle, and this past year this retired nurse volunteered at the Public Health H1N1 vaccination clinic; and
Whereas Jean also served as a CGIT leader for five years; a volunteer camp nurse for the Girl Guides and Bayside Camp; a volunteer at Beacon House Food Bank; president of the Bedford Horticultural Society; a talented artist who donates her art as decor and as fundraising auction items; a Home and School Association volunteer; and a strong supporter of many programs at Charles P. Allen High School, especially the musical and drama productions;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Jean Woodworth on being named Bedford 2010 Adult Volunteer of the Year, and wish her well in her no doubt many and varied future volunteer activities.
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.
RESOLUTION NO. 444
HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Cumberland County Blues have been crowned the 2009-10 Nova Scotia Junior B Hockey League champions; and
Whereas the Blues won the title after being undefeated in the playoffs with a 12-0 record and then sweeping the St. Margaret's Bay Ducks in four games during the championship series; and
Whereas the Blues will be playing against the top teams in Atlantic Canada for the Don Johnson Cup in the Atlantic Junior B tournament from April 20th - 25th in St. Margaret's Bay;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Cumberland County Blues for repeating as the Nova Scotia Junior B Hockey League champions and wish them the best of luck as they try to win their first Don Johnson Cup.
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 North.
RESOLUTION NO. 445
MR. BRIAN SKABAR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas our government is committed to creating the secure jobs Nova Scotia's economy needs; and
Whereas Aquashell Holdings, Inc., in Wallace, Nova Scotia, was one of seven seafood processors to have a share in a $311,000 investment through the Community Development Trust Fund; and
Whereas this funding will aid in improving Nova Scotia's competitiveness in the global seafood industry;
Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Aquashell Holdings on being awarded this funding so the company can enhance productivity and continue its valuable contribution to the Nova Scotia economy.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Preston.
RESOLUTION NO. 446
HON. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the East Preston Day Care Centre celebrated its 35th Anniversary on October 24, 2009; and
Whereas Ms. Kerri Johnson-Thompson started working at the Centre in 1999 and is a graduate of St. Joseph's College of Early Childhood Education; and
Whereas Ms. Johnson-Thompson has provided early childhood education for hundreds of children who have come to the centre over the years and is now the Professional Development and Program Coordinator for the staff and the children at the centre;
Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Ms. Kerri Johnson-Thompson on her hard work and dedication to the children and families of the East Preston Day Care Centre for the past 10 years.
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. 447
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 Nova Scotia's 36th Annual Provincial Volunteer Award Ceremony was held in Halifax on April 12th as a prelude to Volunteer Week 2010, which is scheduled for April 18th to 24th; and
Whereas Ruth LeBlanc was chosen as the representative for the Municipality of Argyle's Volunteer of the Year; and
Whereas Ruth LeBlanc, a resident of Springhaven, is very involved in her community having been a volunteer for many years in different capacities in the church by reading scripture, teaching catechism, also serving on the parish council as well as being involved in other causes such as literacy and drug dependency;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Ruth LeBlanc on receiving the Provincial Volunteer Award and thank her and all volunteers for their dedication to the communities that they serve.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Kings North.
RESOLUTION NO. 448
MR. JIM MORTON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Kentville Silver Gliders Skating Club was founded some 50 years ago by the late Abbie Hamlin; and
Whereas the Silver Gliders celebrated 50 golden years with an ice carnival on March 27, 2010; and
Whereas the club has helped countless children learn to skate and successfully compete at the provincial and national level, bringing home gold, and provided five decades of invaluable coaching;
Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly congratulate the Kentville Silver Gliders Skating Club, their dedicated volunteer coaches and all participants on the 50th Anniversary of the club.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Cape Breton West.
RESOLUTION NO. 449
MR. ALFIE MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas for the past 55 years, Father Joe Gillis has been a much loved priest and fiddle player throughout Cape Breton and Northern Nova Scotia; and
Whereas over the years Father Joe has worked as the Chaplain at St. Francis Xavier University and the priest at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, the Bras D'Or Parish and Big Pond-Johnstown Parish where he is currently serving; and
Whereas on Saturday, April 24, 2010, Father Joe will be celebrating his 80th birthday;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly wish a very happy birthday to Father Joe Gillis and thank him for his dedication and service to all of his parishioners for the past 55 years.
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. 450
MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Soil Conservation Council of Canada was formed in 1987 to provide a non-partisan public forum at the national level for soil conservation; and
Whereas April 18th to 24th is National Soil Conservation Week, which celebrates the increased awareness of the importance of protecting the soil on our farmlands; and
Whereas one of the great contributors to soil conservation is the increased use of low-tillage farming systems, this allows plants to be left on the surface to protect the soil, providing nutrients to the soil, as well as water conservation;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly recognize the important role the Soil Conservation Council of Canada, along with the agriculture sector, plays in the stability of our farmlands and improving the quality of the crops we grow.
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 Guysborough-Sheet Harbour.
RESOLUTION NO. 451
MR. JIM BOUDREAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Sherbrooke Branch of the Women's Institute was organized in 1914 and celebrates its 95th birthday in 2010; and
Whereas in 1933 all branches in Guysborough County met in Glenelg for their first rally and now meet twice per year for a rally; and
Whereas the Women's Institute, which was started in Canada in 1897 to provide training and education to women and afford women opportunities to address societal wrongs, is now a world-wide organization with over eight million members in 71 different countries, which continues to provide women with varied programs on topics like education, health, culture, literature, municipal and world affairs, rural development, fair trade, and climate change, to name just a few;
Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate the Sherbrooke Women's Institute on their 95th birthday, with the very best wishes for 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 West on an introduction.
MR. ALFIE MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, with the permission of the House I would like to draw the members' attention to the gallery opposite. We have two visitors from the Town of Louisbourg, Bill and Pat Mullins, who are long residents there and good friends of this House and of this member. I would like to ask them to stand so they could get the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)
MR. SPEAKER: Welcome to our House.
The honourable member for Bedford-Birch Cove.
RESOLUTION NO. 452
MS. KELLY REGAN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Rachel Gullage was honoured on Sunday, April 18th, as Bedford's Youth Volunteer of the Year; and
Whereas Rachel has been a Girl Guide for 10 years and is a recipient of the Canada Cord, the highest award a Pathfinder can receive, and has been a junior leader with the 1st Bedford Guides for two years, helping to plan camps, unit meetings and district events and the program celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Girl Guide movement, and is currently working toward a Duke of Edinburgh Award; and
Whereas Rachel is in Grade 11 of the IB Program at Charles P. Allen High School where she is co-chair of the World Vision Club, co-chair of the 30 Hour Famine, and a committee member of the Me to We Committee - she also worked on set design for school musicals and is a member of the jazz band, a member of the symphonic band, and a pit band member;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Rachel Gullage on being named Bedford's 2010 Youth Volunteer of the Year, and wish her well in her no doubt many and varied future volunteer activities.
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. 453
HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Emma Simpson, a student at Thompson Junior High, was the "My Hero Contest" national 2009 winner; and
Whereas this contest gives a voice to children affected by breast cancer and encourages them to open dialogue with their loved ones by sharing their personal stories about their hero and, in her submission, Emma wrote about the late Joan McNeil, who taught at Seton Elementary School in North Sydney; and
Whereas Emma has raised $21,000 for breast cancer research since the death of her teacher, Joan McNeil, and Emma has a goal to raise $100,000 before she graduates, for breast cancer research;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Emma for her national prize and for her continued fundraising efforts to help find a cure for breast cancer.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
[4:45 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 Preston.
RESOLUTION NO. 454
HON. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas it has been confirmed that the Minister of Finance provided the Premier and Cabinet colleagues with a sizable income tax cut by eliminating the surtax on Nova Scotians in their income tax bracket; and
Whereas this NDP budget is paying for the income tax cut by raising the HST while providing no income tax relief to the majority of Nova Scotians, forcing the middle class and working poor to pay for the honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal's income tax cut; and
Whereas this NDP Government has clearly thrown the working poor and middle class earners of Nova Scotia under the Dexter bus, creating a "bitter deal for today's families";
Therefore be it resolved that all the members of this House of Assembly implore the honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal to explain to the people of Nova Scotia and his constituents why he deserves an income tax cut while the middle class and working poor shoulder the burden of this government's ill-conceived tax regime.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
I hear several Noes.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.
RESOLUTION NO. 455
HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Mike Belliveau, a Tatamagouche businessman, was recently recognized by his peers across Atlantic Canada for generous community support; and
Whereas Mike believes that seeing the benefits this support gives to the many community organizations is his biggest reward; and
Whereas during the past 20 years Mike and his staff have contributed to the North Colchester High School Student of the Month program, the Creamery Square Association, Communities in Bloom, the North Shore Recreation Centre, Patterson Wharf Project, the Tatamagouche and Area Trails Association, the Lillian Fraser Memorial Hospital, four rural fire departments, and other events and festivals;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mike Belliveau, owner of Mike's Foodland, for being presented with two Community Leadership Awards in the categories of health and non-profit, for an exemplary commitment to customers and community.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park.
RESOLUTION NO. 456
MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas April 18th to April 25th is designated as National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week; and
Whereas Donor Awareness Week is the time to highlight the need, both provincially and nationally, of the importance of registering to be an organ and tissue donor; and
Whereas currently 4,000 Canadians, 120 of whom are Nova Scotian, are waiting for an organ transplant that will give them a second chance to live a full life, while hundreds more wait for a tissue donation that will improve their quality of life;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly acknowledge April 18th to April 25th as National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, and use this opportunity to heighten the importance of organ and tissue donation here 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 Cape Breton West.
RESOLUTION NO. 457
MR. ALFIE MACLEOD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Bruce and Gloria Jean Aiken founded the Cape Breton International Drum Festival, which is known worldwide as an educational venue for drummers of all ages; and
Whereas Education Through Performance is the motto of this not-for-profit festival, which has been nominated for the East Coast Music Awards Event of the Year and the Industry Professionals of the Year, as well as winning the HYPE Award for International Excellence from the Junior Chamber International of Cape Breton; and
Whereas during this year's 10th Anniversary of the Cape Breton International Drum Festival from May 22nd to May 23rd at the Savoy Theatre in Glace Bay, Bruce Aiken will be presented with the very first Music Nova Scotia Award of Excellence, an honour aimed at recognizing members who have contributed generously and in an extraordinary fashion to Nova Scotia's music industry;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly acknowledge the tremendous volunteer efforts of Bruce and Gloria Jean Aiken to organize this festival for the past 10 years, and congratulate Bruce on being chosen the inaugural recipient of the Music Nova Scotia Award of Excellence.
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. 458
HON. WAYNE GAUDET: M. le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:
Attendu que le 18 avril 2009, l'honorable Mayann Francis, lieutenante-gouverneure de la Nouvelle-Écosse, a remis à Simon Comeau de Meteghan Station la Médaille de l'érable pour service exceptionnel auprès des jeunes; et
Attendu que la Médaille de l'érable a été lancée en 2007 dans le cadre du centenaire du mouvement scout au Canada; et
Attendu que la Médaille vise à rendre hommage aux jeunes qui ont contribué de façon exceptionnelle au mouvement et à l'esprit du scoutisme par leur service communautaire, leur participation extraordinaire au mouvement et leurs valeurs personnelles;
Par conséquent, il est résolu que les membres de cette Assemblée félicitent Simon Comeau pour avoir reçu la Médaille de l'érable et lui souhaitent un succès continu dans tous ses projets futurs.
Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on April 18, 2009, the honourable Mayann Francis, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, awarded Simon Comeau of Meteghan Station the Medal of the Maple for distinguished youth service; and
Whereas the Medal of the Maple Award was launched in 2007 to mark the centennial year of the Scouting movement in Canada; and
Whereas the award was designed to honour those youth who have significantly contributed to the movement and the spirit of Scouting through community service, extraordinary Scouting participation, and a system of personal value;
Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Simon Comeau on receiving the Medal of the Maple Award and wish him continued success in all 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 Victoria-The Lakes.
RESOLUTION NO. 459
MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Scotchtown Fire Department has launched a major fundraiser selling tickets on a new lawn tractor; and
Whereas Fire Chief Harold Williamson says this major fundraising initiative will help raise funds for maintaining and buying much-needed equipment; and
Whereas the Scotchtown Fire Department includes 26 hard-working firefighters covering over 1,200 homes in Scotchtown, River Ryan and the Lingan area;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Chief Williamson on the launch of this fundraising effort, and commend both he and his team on the much-valued service they provide to their community.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
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. 460
MS. DIANA WHALEN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on Saturday, April 17, 2010, the inaugural Haliwards were presented at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic; and
Whereas these awards are patterned on the Somerset County Awards in the U.K. and invite invitations from the community for outstanding individuals or groups that are making a difference in the lives of others; and
Whereas Alex Maine brought these awards to HRM, and has worked tirelessly from the outset to make the event meaningful to our community and an opportunity to showcase great people and groups in our municipality;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate Alex Maine on a great event, which provided the opportunity to recognize seven diverse individuals and groups in HRM, and wish him every success in making the Haliwards an annual event in our province.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Kings West.
RESOLUTION NO. 461
MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas it has been confirmed that the Minister of Finance provided the Premier and Cabinet colleagues with a sizable income tax cut by eliminating the surtax on Nova Scotians making more than $83,000 per year; and
Whereas this NDP budget is paying for the income tax cut by raising the HST while providing no income tax relief to the majority of Nova Scotians, forcing the middle class and working poor to pay for the honourable Minister of Agriculture's tax cut; and
Whereas this NDP Government has clearly thrown the working poor and middle income earners of Nova Scotia under the Dexter bus, creating a "bitter deal for today's families";
Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly implore the honourable Minister of Agriculture to explain to the people of Nova Scotia and his constituents why he deserves this income tax cut while the middle class and working poor shoulder the burden of this government's ill-conceived tax regime.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.
MR. DAVID WILSON: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Government Motions.
GOVERNMENT MOTIONS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.
MR. DAVID WILSON: Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and that the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Supply unto Her Majesty.
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.
MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased today to stand in my place to talk about some of the issues facing the residents of Kings West. As most members of the House know, agriculture plays a very prominent role in Kings West, but perhaps the larger Annapolis Valley community, traditionally employing directly or indirectly 25 per cent of residents in the Annapolis Valley. That actually was confirmed by a recent study done by the Eastern Chamber of Commerce to point out the need to keep agriculture very strong in our area.
That being said, Mr. Speaker, we know that over the past three or four years there have been a number of very, very substantial losses in the manufacturing sector relating to agriculture. The place names are very common to all of us as well - places like Canard Poultry, Eastern Protein, Avon Foods, ACA, and Larsen Packers recently having some cutbacks as well. So this is a very big concern presently and, in fact, there's a lot of
wonderment around whether or not we may lose two or three of the remaining processing plants in the Valley.
If we take a look at ACA, as to whether they'll be able to hold on to the processing they currently have - we know a little over 50 per cent of processing chicken has moved out of the province to Nadeau in New Brunswick. Currently there is no kill floor at the Larsen plant, and with the loss of the kill floor, all of the raw product that has to come in for value-added into the Larsen plant is coming in from Quebec, and we know that it bypasses another Maple Leaf plant in Moncton, the Hub plant. So there is a big concern, you know, of how long that will be the practice of a multinational like Maple Leaf. So on that side of the agriculture picture - and these are very important jobs. Most of the permanent workforce at Larsen's are in the $18 to $20 an hour category. So, again, for the Annapolis Valley that's a pretty significant picture for us.
On the bright side, of course, is the fact that the local food movement has become more strongly entrenched and it is growing its capacity. We hope that Select Nova Scotia remains a very strong supportive force to keep that aspect going. In fact, today one of the arms of support is getting itself formally organized and that is a Nova Scotia Food Council. We know in other jurisdictions this has been a very significant advocacy group toward food security, local farm markets and, again, smaller farms being supported as the local food movement increases.
[5:00 p.m.]
I'd like to switch to two or three other themes that I wanted to bring forth. We know that in the past couple of years, the Bay of Fundy has been getting considerable attention as it battles to become one of the new Seven Wonders of Nature. It has gone through a series of votes, a competition, to get that kind of recognition. We know that every time we get a UNESCO site, every time we get some kind of recognition around any of our natural or man-made distinctive attractions, we know it's a good thing for our province.
Currently tourism is paying some attention to the Bay of Fundy and all of the attractions that it has to offer, along with, of course, an interest - in fact, really a global interest - in the Fundy tide potential. From this could come technologies that will be advanced by other countries around the world. We could become a prominent leader as a result of what is currently planned. As the need for green energy increases, hopefully the pace of development around the Bay of Fundy tidal energy will increase.
I still think of the wonder of the Bay of Fundy with those immense tides, the unique fishing of the weir that is used along the Bay of Fundy, again, having very cold waters that provides an excellent quality of lobster. The attraction of the right whale into the Bay of Fundy that only has about 300 to 350 of that species left on Earth, is to me a monumental attraction.
I think we possibly have just really begun to realize the enormous potential of the Bay of Fundy. Some of the things that I'm sure the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is hearing about are roads to the Bay of Fundy, those secondary roads and the roads that run parallel to the bay, itself, many of them are in need of repair. We are getting a lot of erosion along some of these roads.
In my riding, for example, which borders on the member for Kings North, a little community called Canada Creek, we know that community is experiencing some challenges with its roads as erosion along the bay is, of course, a never-ending natural process, but one that we need to take a look at in terms of making sure safety is primary as we do attract more tourists and also more Nova Scotians to the bay, itself. Other areas of Harbourville and Morden have challenges with the current road that runs along parallel to the Bay of Fundy.
As it does gain attention, I would hope that maybe all members of the House - this is the only prominent, national feature that is now gaining international attention - that all the members who perhaps send out a newsletter, that they would encourage their residents to vote. This is actually a Nova Scotian, almost a requirement for all of us, that we would go on to the site of votemyfundy.com, and vote ourselves. Of course, as MLAs, hopefully all of us can have 100 per cent in that category, but that other members can encourage their constituents to vote over the next year for the Bay of Fundy to become one of the seven natural wonders of the world. I think as a result of that, we could be very, very significant beneficiaries.
Moving along in my riding, which is really no different than perhaps most ridings of Nova Scotia, especially rural ridings - there are mounting health concerns as our aging population puts more and more pressure on the services that are offered. Again, having had the occasion for my family to use the regional hospital, we soon discovered the wonderful quality of care, and accolades can't be too strong in terms of the proficiencies of the medical staff that is at Valley Regional.
I've said in this House many times - and probably will say it again - that primary health care and having a family doctor is, I believe, an absolute critical investment in the long run to reduce cost to the province and to reduce impacts on our ER. Too many Nova Scotians are without a family doctor - someone who does a tracking, knows our history. In fact, we all know that more and more doctors, especially our young doctors, are very proactive around the idea of taking control, as much as possible, of having good health practices. This again can be a way of reducing costs - if we have an annual checkup and a regular family doctor.
In my area, we don't have enough doctors. I actually have military families - and this is really what perhaps brought about the development of a community clinic in Greenwood that would look after the spouses and families of military personnel who couldn't get a
family doctor - I've had residents where their last posting was in Halifax and even a few in Montreal who kept their family doctor. They wanted to have a family doctor.
We now have a community health clinic, but it has a very limited function because, again, we don't have doctors to staff it on a regular basis. The real growing concern that I hear now from many of my constituents is the fact of the pressing need within the next few years for more family physicians. In the area roughly from Middleton to Berwick, where we have 11 family doctors - seven of them are over the age of 60 and one who is 74 - they must have at least 3,000 or 4,000 patients. So this is a huge concern to our area, that we have timely replacement and that we have a very active recruitment in order to fill that need of primary health care.
I think the two impacts since the NDP has formed the government of the province, that we're going to see in the coming months, are the loss of The Cat - Kings West and the Annapolis Valley generally has a very, very strong tourist sector, very vital to the economy. We know that this year the visits to the Apple Capital of Nova Scotia, the visits to the Oaklawn Farm Zoo, the best east of Montreal, the Aviation Museum at 14 Wing, we know that these will have less people because they track the entry of people into our communities and into those three major tourist attractions that I have just pointed out. That's a real concern at the moment.
The other one is that the riding I represent, while anchored with 14 Wing Greenwood and the Waterville Michelin plant - it is made up very heavily of a vibrant small business community. Again, the HST concern - I've had several business people come to my office and make presentations on what they are anticipating as a result of the HST. I know my time is up and thank you.
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cape Breton North.
HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I'm very pleased to join in the debate going into Supply this evening. As we go through the topics that are emerging and as we look at some of the situations that Nova Scotians find themselves experiencing at this time and some of the realities that are becoming known about this socialist government and the impact on working families throughout Nova Scotia, we're coming to bear with a government that has a clear direction on what they want to do, but has lost sight on the clear direction Nova Scotians expected from the government in going forward.
Before I do, I want to echo the comments from the member for Cape Breton West that you so kindly obliged with the greeting and welcome of Pat and Bill Mullins from Louisbourg here to join the proceedings. Someone who has been very experienced - I know the honourable member didn't indicate, but Bill's a very experienced political person, having been the honourable member's president of the riding association and very experienced in the political process. I'm glad they're here to take in some of the proceedings this evening,
as we do hope that Nova Scotians will take an interest, not just those who are politically involved, but those throughout the province.
People are taking note of what is happening here, or more importantly, what is not happening here at Province House, and what is not happening by the actions of the government. They've take specific note of those actions the government has taken that have been very offensive to the people of Nova Scotia. As I've said about the Minister of Finance, you know you have a modern-day Robin Hood because he takes from the middle class and then tries to spin it around to give back to the middle class but at the same time taxing them even further in the process, which isn't fair to the middle class, yet there really is a contradiction of policies by this particular socialist regime in the province.
The Dexter NDP don't seem to have caught on to what it was that Nova Scotians endorsed to give them a mandate and give them a government. I know when they were on the Opposition side of the House, what they spoke about was diametrically opposed to what they are spewing these days as a government. Nova Scotians are feeling the negative impact of what the Dexter NDP is meaning to working families and indeed those who are sincerely engaged and wanting to move this province forward.
I know within Cape Breton Regional Municipality and the urban Cape Breton area, these are areas where they are calling upon us and we try to work across Party lines, as colleagues of Legislature, for the common good of Cape Breton. I know there are a number of priorities that are before the government right now that the people of Cape Breton will be taking note of as this session of the House moves on, and as they'll see, we will speak at every opportunity we have to highlight the projects and priorities from within Cape Breton.
They're not seeing what they thought they would see - leadership. To quote their own campaign literature from the NDP: Genuine leadership, which has been fundamentally lacking. There is no amount of spin doctors in the Premier's Office or in the communications units that can paper over that, that they have not lived up to what they said they would do.
The Minister of Finance has brought forward financial positioning that we know now through Deloitte, their own auditors, that the $100,000 spent was incorrect. To fabricate what he called a structural deficit of $1.4 billion that was just that - fabricated - because the consultants were told, you're not to move outside these boundaries, you're to give us the numbers that would be as though in that point in time.
We have a Minister of Finance who has produced and trying to get back to balance - well, getting back to reality would have been the first step for this government in addressing the concerns. I know within Cape Breton right now we have the Cape Breton Central Nova Scotia Railway, a very key piece of infrastructure, one that I was personally very pleased and very proud of my involvement with that. On two occasions, both in 2003 and 2006, with regard to the subsidy that was in place recognizing it was key infrastructure and economic
infrastructure for the future of Cape Breton. Subsequent to that, it was predicated as well about the development of the Donkin Mine, in hopes that would provide infrastructure that could be leveraged.
[5:15 p.m.]
Now we have the desire to dredge Sydney Harbour, a $38 million project that we're now aware of, of which the government has been asked to make a contribution of 40 per cent toward that, and the number would be $15.2 million from the Province of Nova Scotia. Even though the Premier tried to defer it as a federal aspect, the actual lands and properties in question are within a provincial responsibility, and also, Mr. Speaker, that the province try to defer it as a federal item when, in fact, it is a community priority, of which the community is asking the Government of Canada, the Province of Nova Scotia, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, and corporate citizens to step up to the plate.
It isn't one government, nor is it deferring it, but the request to the province is $15.2 million for that 40 per cent contribution. I think the Premier and his Cabinet should be focused on that, just as much as the subsidy with the railway was on $2 million per year. The last five-year contract was for $10 million, assuming that we have to maintain, and of that $10 million, we also know that while there is operating subsidy, I believe that $4.5 million of that $10 million actually went into infrastructure and maintenance of the line and not just merely to the corporate bottom line of Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway.
We also know when we see the potential of the dredge of Sydney Harbour and what it means for the commercialization of the harbour, the potential to Xstrata - they are now looking at the opportunity to barge versus the suggestion that maybe we can rail and short line from the Donkin site to the Port of Sydney. That is something the government, I would hope, is going to put some effort into analyzing with Xstrata, analyzing with the railway to look at where the volumes, where we can actually get real, economic, commercial traffic on the line to mitigate what would be a subsidy and look at investments and infrastructure and a greater balance as a result.
I also would note that people in Cape Breton are looking to the Dexter NDP to come forward with a true plan and vision that relates to the Atlantic Gateway initiative. While money has been spent and many bureaucrats and people within the HRM have been fully engaged, we do not see that level of involvement extending to the regions of the province, whether that is in the Strait of Canso area or in Sydney Harbour. The Atlantic Gateway - we know the Premier invested a CEO to take on that role, and I would hope that planning includes the Ports of Sydney, that people will see the value in making that appropriate investment, and recognizing that these ports are equal when it comes to economic opportunity.
In fact, there should be an accelerated effort because, as I've heard continually, Halifax has a natural economic growth pattern. So if you have a natural economic growth pattern and entities like Nova Scotia Business Inc. seem fixated on focusing, or maybe it is just taking the low hanging fruit that is out there for opportunities, rather than putting the shoulder to the wheel and getting to the hard case and the hard work of developing opportunities that aren't always easily realized.
That is when we talk about Atlantic Gateway. While I've worked and proposed to the Government of Canada and was very pleased in advocating for the investments - we'll see about $202 million in the current round invested in fleet renewal, in infrastructure within the constituency of Cape Breton North, but it is part of a Gateway initiative. Those vessels, the Joseph and Clara Smallwood and the Caribou, have to be replaced. They've done great service, but it's now time for the next generation. Part of that is looking to getting the feasibility plan in place, Mr. Speaker, for a marshaling yard, to help support the trucking and transport industry, so that the issues that are on-site versus those that support the site can, indeed, support economic activity.
I'm hoping, as part of that, people will be looking at Atlantic Gateway - not just Korea, but looking to Newfoundland and Labrador and their growing economy and looking at the economic opportunities in the resource development areas that they are pursuing as a way of growing Nova Scotia business and growing it through the Port of Sydney and recognizing that as value.
I also know, Mr. Speaker, when you look at the energy sector, I do know the Minister of Energy had indicated that there are some sensitive discussions going on, and I respect that, given the commercial nature - especially with the stock market, you can't disclose things before the time. What I haven't heard from the government is a very significant commitment to expand and utilize the research, the tens of millions of dollars of research that has been put forward, what they're doing with it, what the plans would be for the Laurentian sub-base and in connecting that with opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador, what we would see as well with renewable development, Cape Breton seems to have been lost because of issues with transmission. I've asked the Premier this question because the Energy Minister deferred it to the Premier and the Premier was kind of looking and saying, well, we've got plans.
But Nova Scotians saw the Nova Scotia Premier, the Dexter NDP, stand by idly while New Brunswick and Quebec were engaged in a commercial arrangement that could have had a devastating effect here in Nova Scotia, with nothing said and with no activity and interaction with Newfoundland and Labrador who were more concerned, obviously, than the Premier was here, a province who's economy is growing, with the Lower Churchill opportunity, and I know for transmission infrastructure upgrade it is going to take all players to be involved, a long-term view. That has been missing by the NDP Government and I would hope that since they see leadership in other areas that this government will catch up
and I will support them when they catch up and start recognizing some of these investments that are needed.
We've heard as well in the government about the need of a feed-in tariff, we see in Ontario, I believe there are over $8 billion of projects that were announced by a government taking a new approach and that is some of the policy. I know that the Minister of Energy is sincere when he says he is committed to development. But what we want to do is make sure the minister and his government are articulating specific actions that people can look to and support, get more information on and, indeed, bring opportunities to the table.
As was indicated by the Premier, transmission infrastructure is going to be very important and not just because we have aging infrastructure for our existing generation capacity in this province. If we want to take advantage of the Lower Churchill, if we want to take advantage - as we did in the previous government - to invest in the studies for tidal in the Bay of Fundy, we have to have a fully upgraded and capable system of transmission in this province and that will involve government in various forms, one of them is policy, potentially legislative, potentially a longer term with some regard to some of the financial aspects about that. I know that the Minister of Energy, hopefully, will play a role in urging his Premier to take further action.
I also know in terms of the Cape Breton community, in my final moments, Mr. Speaker, before we go into Supply estimates discussion, I would like to say that there are other things like the YMCA - and I will wait and talk to the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection about the project there with all of the investment, $12.3 million, there is $1 million outstanding that has been requested of the government and I'm hoping that the government will see fit because that will mean whether or not the pool section actually gets completed.
I know that the member for Cape Breton Nova and I, as former members of the board of the Cape Breton Family YMCA, as people who have travelled to and from meetings, share that, but I want them to share it with their Cabinet colleagues to recognize that it is not just another pool. It is about significant key infrastructure and the core of the urban area within the CBRM and it is an economic generator. As the member for Cape Breton Nova knows, there are dozens of jobs. I look at the collaborative relationship between the YMCA as well as the Whitney Pier Youth Club, great programs, great initiatives and they need infrastructure support to do that.
I also think about the $4.5 million project to upgrade Centre 200. When we look at that and we look at the investments that are necessary here with our own Metro Centre, and the government would see fit to do that, I'm hoping they will see fit to put in the $1.5 million of the provincial request for that upgrade. We know the ability when we see it with our hockey tournaments, but also with other conventions and conferences, to see the ability to work with the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre, to integrate that with the Savoy in
Glace Bay, to find ways to integrate into Joan Harris Cruise Pavillion at the Big Fiddle. All of these have to be integrated and what the community is looking for is how the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage and Economic and Rural Development work with the community to make those infrastructure announcements.
One of the things that we have heard was the minister say there is no money but on the eve of an election in a by-election in Antigonish, there was $3 million available pretty quickly for some local infrastructure. What Cape Bretoners have heard clearly as well, when you look at infrastructure that has jobs related to them, we've heard a government that has now invested over $100 million to buy dirt when no one was demanding it, yet we have infrastructure and jobs that need to be supported. Those are about government choices and if there is genuine leadership, they have some special interests, people come first and we'll get to those other priorities later.
I'm hoping this government will put people first and put the economic priorities of an area, key infrastructure, economic and social infrastructure that is necessary to help a community that has been going through a longer-term impact.
Mr. Speaker, I know my time might be coming to an end but I want to speak about good opportunities and I want to give a kudo to the Minister of Economic and Rural Development. I know the challenges we faced in my own constituency with the UpSource call centre when a concern came forward about the international condition, the Minister of Economic and Rural Development has staff looking at it, they're analyzing that now. There are dozens of jobs that are involved with that and I appreciate and thank the minister for taking an interest in those jobs. I'm hoping that he and his colleagues will share a wider belief and a more concerted effort in the other project such that the Northside Industrial Park - we've seen the pharmaceutical company that went down, someone took it over - interest in other infrastructure that's there that can be leveraged.
So, Mr. Speaker, there are many good things, but we do need what the government promised - genuine leadership making genuine, tangible investments, taking actions that are concrete, and supporting the community on their priorities.
With that, I'm hoping we can move forward, and I will be happy to stand another day and rather than be constructively critical, I want to be complimentary and provide the kudos that I hope will come, and people will be genuine in their interest to move Cape Breton and its interests forward. Thank you.
MR. SPEAKER: Thank you, honourable member.
The motion is carried.
[5:25 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Supply with Deputy Speaker Mr. Gordon Gosse in the Chair.]
[9:39 p.m. CWH on Supply rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Hon. Wayne Gaudet in the Chair.]
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Supply reports:
THE CLERK: That the committee has met and made considerable progress and begs leave to sit again.
MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
The honourable Government House Leader.
HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, that concludes the government's business for the day. I move that the House do now rise to meet again tomorrow at the hour of 12:00 noon until 8:00 p.m. The order of business on the morrow will be Committee of the Whole House on Supply, and if time permits, second reading of Bill Nos. 1, 7, 13, 16, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 29 and 33.
I move that the House do now rise.
MR. SPEAKER: The motion is to adjourn.
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 House stands adjourned until 12:00 noon tomorrow.
[The House rose at 9:40 p.m.]
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)
RESOLUTION NO. 462
By: Hon. Karen Casey (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 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colchester has been creating friendships since 1978; and
Whereas during March break Kids-n-Kops gives youth involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colchester the opportunity to learn about policing, including fingerprinting, the K-9 Unit, and drug awareness programs; and
Whereas this program allows young people to build a good relationship with police officers and to get a better understanding of the job they do;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colchester on another successful year of Kids-n-Kops.
RESOLUTION NO. 463
By: Hon. Karen Casey (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 Doug McMaster of the Colchester North Progressive Conservative Association was unanimously chosen as Volunteer of the Year at the recent Annual General Meeting; and
Whereas Doug is a long-time, hard-working, unrecognized volunteer who is always dependable and willing to do whatever is asked of him; and
Whereas this retired RCMP officer has worked as an election campaign team worker, as a driver for this candidate for two campaigns, and as an organizer for the Colchester North Golf Tournament;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly thank Doug McMaster for his many volunteer activities and congratulate him for being chosen as Volunteer of the Year for 2010.
RESOLUTION NO. 464
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 Jeremy Skidmore, a former Park View Education Centre student, is currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts program; and
Whereas this Mount Saint Vincent University sophomore was named Atlantic Colleges Athletic Association Player of the Week on February 17th; and
Whereas Jeremy lead the Mystics basketball team to a 69 to 62 victory over Mount Allison with 19 points and 11 rebounds;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jeremy Skidmore and wish him good luck with his studies and basketball in the future.
RESOLUTION NO. 465
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 Eric Favaro and his team put together a very successful East Coast Music Association Awards and Conference from March 4th to March 7th; and
Whereas 2,500 delegates attended and injected $5 million into the local economy through the festival and conference; and
Whereas over 600 volunteers and many performers made this event a tremendous success that was given worldwide coverage;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Eric Favaro, his team, and all the individuals involved in this fantastic weekend.
