April 26, 2010

HANSARD 10-21

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/

Second Session

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
SPEAKER'S RULING:
Unparliamentary language by the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party
(Pt. of Order by Hon. F. Corbett [Hansard p. 1213, 04/22/10]) 1285
SPEAKER'S RULING:
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage referenced a document and thus it
ought to be tabled (Pt. of Order by Mr. K. Bain [Hansard p. 1213, 04/22/10])
Not a point of order 1286
SPEAKER'S RULING:
Minister of Economic and Rural Development gave the impression he would not
release information (Pt. of Order by Hon. Manning MacDonald [Hansard p. 1213, 04/22/10])
Not a point of order 1286
SPEAKER'S RULING:
Minister ought not to absent himself or herself from CWH on Supply if that
minister's estimates are on the floor of the committee (Pt. of Privilege by Hon. M. Scott
[Hansard p. 1247, 04/23/10]) 1287
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Mr. K. Bain 1287
Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Hon. K. Casey 1288
Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Hon. C. Clarke 1288
Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Hon. C. d'Entremont 1288
Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Mr. A. MacMaster 1289
Justice - Correctional Facility (Cumb. Co.), Mr. C. Porter 1289
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 670, Pinkney Rink - Sr. Women's World Curling Championship,
The Premier (by Hon. Maureen MacDonald) 1290
Vote - Affirmative 1290
Res. 671, MacDonald, Ned: Death of - Tribute,
Hon. R. Jennex (by Hon. F. Corbett) 1291
Vote - Affirmative 1291
Res. 672, Crane, James L.: Death of - Tribute,
Hon. R. Landry 1292
Vote - Affirmative 1292
Res. 673, Natl. Immunization Awareness Wk. (04/24 - 05/01/10):
Importance - Recognize, Hon. Maureen MacDonald 1292
Vote - Affirmative 1293
Res. 674, Kirumira, Dr. Abdullah: Jerome Award - Congrats.,
Hon. P. Paris 1293
Vote - Affirmative 1294
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 44, Maintenance and Custody Act,
Hon. K. Casey 1294
No. 45, Day Care Act,
Hon. Manning MacDonald 1294
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 675, Pinkney Rink - Sr. Women's World Curling Championship,
Hon. W. Gaudet 1294
Vote - Affirmative 1295
Res. 676, Pinkney Rink - Sr. Women's World Curling Championship,
Hon. K. Casey 1295
Vote - Affirmative 1296
Res. 677, 42nd St. - Horton HS: Production - Congrats.,
Hon. R. Jennex (by Mr. J. Morton) 1296
Vote - Affirmative 1296
Res. 678, Team Kelly: Curling Accomplishment - Congrats.,
Mr. L. Glavine 1297
Vote - Affirmative 1297
Res. 679, Bell Aliant Pioneers (C.B.): Vols. - Congrats.,
Mr. K. Bain 1297
Vote - Affirmative 1298
Res. 680, Van de Reit, Jack: Milford & Dist. Lions Club
Volunteerism (30 Yrs.) - Congrats., Hon. J. MacDonell 1298
Vote - Affirmative 1299
Res. 681, Healthy Schools Day (04/26/10) - Recognize,
Mr. A. Younger 1299
Vote - Affirmative 1299
Res. 682, D'Entremont, Pierrette - Kid's Companion: Lancement
- Félicitations, Hon. C. d'Entremont 1300
Vote - Affirmative 1301
Res. 683, MacVicar, Kelly/Pictou Reg. Dev. Commn.: Conference
- Congrats., Mr. C. MacKinnon 1301
Vote - Affirmative 1302
Res. 684, Five Bridges Wilderness Heritage Trust: Book Publication
- Thank, Ms. K. Regan 1302
Vote - Affirmative 1303
Res. 685, MacNeil, Blake: Courage - Congrats.,
Hon. C. Clarke 1303
Vote - Affirmative 1303
Res. 686, Waterman, Allan: Vol. Award - Congrats.,
Ms. V. Conrad 1304
Vote - Affirmative 1304
Res. 687, Mott, Sean: Playwriting Contest - Congrats.,
Hon. K. Colwell 1304
Vote - Affirmative 1305
Res. 688, Grand Chief Membertou 400 Celebration: Organizers
- Well Wishes, Mr. A. MacLeod (by Hon. C. d'Entremont) 1305
Vote - Affirmative 1306
Res. 689, Woozles/Bookmark: Libris Award Nominations
- Congrats., Mr. L. Preyra (by Ms. M. Raymond) 1306
Vote - Affirmative 1307
Res. 690, Miller, Dick/Clayton Developments: Hfx. C. of C. Award
- Congrats., Ms. D. Whalen 1307
Vote - Affirmative 1307
Res. 691, MacDonald, Ned: Death of - Tribute,
Mr. A. MacMaster 1308
Vote - Affirmative 1308
Res. 692, Booth, Sylvia: Women Entrepreneurs - Commitment,
Ms. P. Birdsall 1308
Vote - Affirmative 1309
Res. 693, Richmond Co.: Vols. of Yr. - Congrats.,
Hon. M. Samson 1309
Vote - Affirmative 1310
Res. 694, N. Kings Educ. Ctr. Titans Girls Basketball Team
- Prov. Championship, Mr. C. Porter 1310
Vote - Affirmative 1311
Res. 695, Ketene, Suzie: KidSport Can. - Fundraising Efforts,
Ms. K. Regan 1311
Vote - Affirmative 1311
Res. 696, Justice - Correctional Facility: Springhill Site
- Reconsider, Hon. M. Scott (by Mr. K. Bain) 1312
Res. 697, Goodwin, Staley: Death of - Tribute,
Hon. W. Gaudet 1312
Vote - Affirmative 1313
Res. 698, Creamery Sq. Heritage Ctr.: Cdn. Museums Assoc. Award
- Congrats., Hon. K. Casey 1313
Vote - Affirmative 1314
Res. 699, Ohanaka, Rev. Ogueri/Staff/Congregation:
Shiloh Commun. Church - Grand Opening, Hon. K. Colwell 1314
Vote - Affirmative 1314
Res. 700, Halifax Biomedical/Pres.: Success - Wish,
Mr. A. MacMaster 1315
Vote - Affirmative 1315
Res. 701, Locke, Eric: Golf Accomplishments - Congrats.,
Mr. H. Theriault 1315
Vote - Affirmative 1316
Res. 702, Northstar Pride - Midget AAA Girls Basketball Championship,
Hon. C. Clarke 1316
Vote - Affirmative 1317
Res. 703, Justice: Victims of Crime/Families - Remember,
Ms. D. Whalen 1317
Vote - Affirmative 1318
Res. 704, Société historique acadienne - Livre généalogique : Impression
- Félicitations, Hon. C. d'Entremont 1318
Vote - Affirmative 1319
Res. 705, Morgan, Colleen - Richmond Co. Prov. Vol. Awards:
Rep. - Congrats., Hon. M. Samson 1319
Vote - Affirmative 1320
Res. 706, Falmouth Fillies: Soccer Gold Medal - Congrats.,
Mr. C. Porter 1320
Vote - Affirmative 1321
Res. 707, N. Shore & Dist. FD: Fundraising - Congrats.,
Mr. K. Bain 1321
Vote - Affirmative 1322
Res. 708, Cdn. Cancer Soc.: Daffodil Prog. - Congrats.,
Mr. A. MacLeod (by Mr. A. MacMaster) 1322
Vote - Affirmative 1323^
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
GOVERNMENT MOTIONS:
ON MOTION FOR SUPPLY:
Mr. L. Glavine 1323
Ms. V. Conrad 1326
Mr. C. Porter 1330
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON SUPPLY AT 3:56 P.M. 1335
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 6:30 P.M. 1335
REPORT OF CWH ON SUPPLY [Rule 62G (1)]
Motion to Concur 1335
Vote - Affirmative 1335
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 46, Appropriations Act, 2010, Hon. G. Steele 1335
PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING:
No. 46, Appropriations Act, 2010, Hon. G. Steele 1335
PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 46, Appropriations Act, 2010, Hon. G. Steele 1337
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Tue., Apr. 27th at 12 noon 1338^
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Res. 709, Saint Marys Mun. Dist.: Age Friendly Grant Prog. - Congrats.,
Mr. J. Boudreau 1339
Res. 710, Atl. Aquafarms: Commun. Dev. Trust Fund - Congrats.,
Mr. J. Boudreau 1339
Res. 711, Willie Wonka - Coldbrook Dist. Sch.: Production - Congrats.,
Hon. R. Jennex 1340
Res. 712, Myra, Bromlyn - CHAMP Prog.,
Ms. P. Birdsall 1340
Res. 713, Hillier, Tom: Cdn. Paraplegic Assoc. Award - Congrats.,
Ms. P. Birdsall 1341
Res. 714, South Shore Health: Wait Times - Reduction,
Ms. P. Birdsall 1341
Res. 715, Macular Degeneration: Drug Formulary Bd. - Meet,
Mr. C. Porter 1342
Res. 716, Alice Housing - BBB Award,
Ms. K. Regan 1342
Res. 717, Minas Basin Pulp and Power - BBB Award,
Ms. K. Regan 1343
Res. 718, Powell, Nancy - Bedford Vol. Award,
Ms. K. Regan 1343
Res. 719, Huntley, Laura/Stevens, Mary - New Minas Vol. Awards,
Hon. R. Jennex 1344
Res. 720, N.S. Historical Web Site: Partners - Congrats.,
Hon. P. Paris 1344
Res. 721, Canso Bluefins Atom B Hockey Team - Silver Medal,
Mr. J. Boudreau 1345
Res. 722, Canso Bluefins PeeWee B Hockey Team - Silver Medal,
Mr. J. Boudreau 1345
Res. 723, Head of St. Margarets Recreation Bd. - Commun. Contribution,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1346
Res. 724, Zinck, Annette: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1346
Res. 725, Webber, Sylvia: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1347
Res. 726, Weinberg, Carol: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1347
Res. 727, Grant, Ian: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1347
Res. 728, Hart, Sydney: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1348
Res. 729, Hutt, Robert: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1348
Res. 730, McDonagh-Harnish, Cyril: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1349
Res. 731, Miller, Lawson: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1349
Res. 732, Slauenwhite, Mike: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1350
Res. 733, Dumaresq, Syd: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1350
Res. 734, Gates, Sarah: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1350
Res. 735, Chandler, Joan: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1351
Res. 736, Bond, Gillian:Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1351
Res. 737, Hamlin, Peggy: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1352
Res. 738, Johnston, Jean: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1352
Res. 739, Nauss, Carol: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1353
Res. 740, Payne, Mae: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1353
Res. 741, Piers, Janet: Chester Mun. Vol. Serv. - Congrats.,
Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse 1354

[Page 1285]

HALIFAX, MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2010

Sixty-first General Assembly

Second Session

2:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Charlie Parker

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

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

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Honourable members, I call today's session to order.

Before I go to the daily routine, I have a short statement here I wish to read and it's concerning points of order from last week.

On April 22, 2010, at the end of the Oral Question Period, three different members of the House rose on separate points of order, and I'll refer to them in the order in which they were presented.

SPEAKER'S RULING: Unparliamentary language by the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party (Pt. of Order by Hon. F. Corbett [Hansard P. 1213, 04/22/10]) The Speaker requests the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party to retract the statement and she complies.

The first point of order was raised by the honourable Deputy Premier. He stated that during Question Period the honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party used the word "stole" in the context of "stole the jail". I did examine Hansard and the words as spoken by the honourable Leader are shown as, "when it stole the correction facility". Everyone knows that it would be very difficult to literally commit such an act and the context would suggest a figurative meaning to the word.

[Page 1286]

1285

But inasmuch as I have sympathy that can be extended in that regard, it is still one of those words that cannot be tolerated, much like "lie" or "liar". So at this point I'm going to request the honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party to retract that expression.

The honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to say before this House that I appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss the intent of the language. I said at that time that I would respect your ruling and I will and I do. I also said at that time that I would retract that statement if it was deemed by you to be unparliamentary and I do so. Thank you. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to put on the record that we understand the sincerity of that retraction because I've known the Leader for quite some time and always found her to be an honourable member. We all realize that things are said in the heat of debate and it just reinforces my respect for that member. I am really appreciative of her standing up and doing so today. Thank you. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. I'll continue.

SPEAKER'S RULING: The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage referenced a document and thus it ought to be tabled. (Pt. of Order by Mr. K. Bain [Hansard P. 1213, 04/22/10]) The minister did not quote from the document so there is no obligation to table it. No point of order.

The second point of order was raised by the member for Victoria-The Lakes. He stated that the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage had referenced an economic analysis on the impact of the withdrawal of The Cat ferry and thus the analysis ought to be tabled. I checked Hansard and I could find no quoting of such an analysis by the honourable minister. Therefore, there is no obligation to table the same and no point of order.

SPEAKER'S RULING: The Minister of Economic and Rural Development gave the impression he would not release information (Pt. of Order by Hon. Manning MacDonald [Hansard p. 1213, 04/22/10]) Not a point of order.

The third point of order was raised by the honourable member for Cape Breton South. His point was to the effect that the Minister of Economic and Rural Development gave the impression that he was not going to give the names of individuals of Team West or Team Southwest. Whether the honourable minister did or did not give that impression does not constitute or give rise to a point of order.

[Page 1287]

SPEAKER'S RULING: A minister ought not to absent himself or herself from CWH on Supply if that minister's estimates are on the floor of the committee (Pt. of Privilege by Hon. M. Scott [Hansard p. 1247, 04/23/10]) Members have not been subject to an actual loss of time, but if the situation were otherwise that a member could be obstructed in his or her rights as a member, in effect that would amount to a matter of privilege.

Finally, on Friday, April 23rd, the honourable member for Cumberland South rose on a point of privilege. The gist of what the member had to say was that a minister ought not to absent himself or herself from the Committee of the Whole House on Supply if that minister's estimates are on the floor of the committee. Fortunately, members have not been ultimately subject to an actual loss of time with the chosen minister during this year's estimates, but I do have sympathy for the principle that he espouses. If the situation were otherwise, that a member could be obstructed in his or her rights as a member in effect, that certainly would amount to a matter of privilege.

Obviously things do come up from time to time that are unavoidable. Life does not follow a path of perfection, difficult situations do happen, and planning even months in advance can sometimes bring about an unforseen consequence. So I would caution all members to utilize common sense and goodwill that allows this House to function. Certainly if that were to disappear, life would be much more difficult for all of us and especially for your humble servant. I thank all members for their attention.

Now we'll begin the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, here we are on day 20 of broken promises of this government. As you know, a petition is circulating in Cumberland County which began as a result of this headline which appeared in provincial newspapers, "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises," and of course we know what happened there, broken promises every day since last June. The prayer of this petition says:

"We, the residents of Cumberland County implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland County!"

Mr. Speaker, 52 residents have signed this and the total to date is 1,863. I have affixed my signature to the petition.

[Page 1288]

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

[2:15 p.m.]

The honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Here we are on day 20 of broken promises of this government and, as you know, a petition has circulated in Cumberland County, which began as a result of the headline which appeared in the paper saying, "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises," and of course we know that has not happened - broken promises every day since last June. The operative clause of this petition says:

"We, the residents of Cumberland County implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland County!"

Mr. Speaker, 52 residents have signed this, and the total to date is 1,915. I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton North.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, well, here it is, day 20 of broken promises of this government. As you know, a petition is circulating throughout Cumberland County which began as a result of a headline that appeared in the paper that says: "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises." Of course, we know what has happened with that - broken promises every day since. The prayer of this petition states:

"We, the residents of Cumberland County implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland County!"

Mr. Speaker, 52 residents have signed this. The total to date is 1,967, and I have affixed my signature to the petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Argyle.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I'm sure you've all heard we're on day 20 of broken promises of this government. The petition circulating Cumberland

[Page 1289]

County which began as a result of this headline, this one right here that says: "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises," and of course, we know what happened there. (Interruptions) No, I'm not hearing anything, I'm not hearing anything. Broken promises every day since last June. The prayer of the petition says:

"We, the residents of Cumberland County implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland County!"

Mr. Speaker, 52 residents have signed this. The total to date is 2,019, and I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Inverness.

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER: Mr. Speaker, as you know, a petition is circulating in Cumberland County. It reads:

"We, the residents of Cumberland County implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland County!"

Mr. Speaker, 104 residents have signed this and the total to date is 2,175 people. I have affixed my signature to the petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Hants West.

MR. CHUCK PORTER: Mr. Speaker, as you know, it's day 20 where "Dexter says he'd keep Tory promises," and of course, we know what happened there. The promises have been broken. The petition states:

"We, the residents of Cumberland County, implore that Premier Darrell Dexter keep his word and build a correctional facility in Cumberland county!"

Mr. Speaker, 52 residents have signed this petition. The total to date is 2,227, and I have affixed mine as well to the petition, which I'll table.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

[Page 1290]

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Health.

RESOLUTION NO. 670

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

Whereas the curlers of Nova Scotia are known around the world for their skill, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship; and

Whereas the Truro rink of Colleen Pinkney, Wendy Currie, Karen Hennigar, and Susan Creelman won the Canadian Senior Women's Championship and the right to represent Canada at the world championship in Chelyabinsk, Russia; and

Whereas the Pinkney rink scored four in an extra end to secure a dramatic 8-4 victory over Switzerland in the championship final on Saturday to finish the tournament undefeated;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the 2010 World Championship Senior Women's curling team of Colleen Pinkney, Wendy Currie, Karen Hennigar, and Susan Creelman, along with coach Judy Burgess, for their accomplishment and recognize that their win is a source of great pride for Nova Scotia and, indeed, for all Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

[Page 1291]

The honourable Deputy Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 671

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nova Scotians are saddened to hear the news that retired teacher and veteran councillor with the Municipality of Inverness County, Ned MacDonald, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 23rd; and

Whereas Ned MacDonald was well-known in his community as a municipal leader, educator, historian and dedicated volunteer; and

Whereas Ned MacDonald's legacy of the Main Street redevelopment project in Inverness, the Inverness County Centre for the Arts, and the Inverness Cottage Workshop will live on for generations to come;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House extend its sincere condolences to the MacDonald family, his wife Abby MacQuarrie and children Janna and Breanna and acknowledge his contributions toward his community and local government

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. ROSS LANDRY: Mr. Speaker, before I read a resolution I beg leave to make an introduction. In the east gallery with us today, we have the family members of the late Jim

[Page 1292]

Crane. I would like the House to recognize and welcome them: Evelyn Crane, Nicole Crane, Michelle Crane and Jason Murphy, Ann Gillam and Bob and Donna Crane. Also in the gallery is Fred Honsberger, the previous Director of Correctional Services and his partner. I would like to extend a warm welcome to the family and friends.

RESOLUTION NO. 672

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

Whereas James L. Crane, past member of the Royal Canadian Air Force, graduate and past captain of the renowned Saint Mary's University Huskies football team, who completed his Masters Degree in Correctional Administration at the University of Ottawa, and was a former Executive Director of Correctional Services, Nova Scotia Department of Justice from 1972 to 1994, passed away January 2, 2010, after an heroic battle with cancer; and

Whereas Mr. Crane established a professional correctional service in Nova Scotia through his vision and passion for excellence in public service, and is recognized for his contributions annually by the Department of Justice, through the presentation of the James L. Crane Leadership Award; and

Whereas Mr. Crane was the recipient of the federal Corrections Exemplary Service Award, the John Dunlop Award for outstanding contribution to the Criminal Justice System, the Medal of Bravery, presented by Governor General Michener, and the Carnegie Bronze Medal for Bravery;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the loyalty, dedication, commitment to excellence, and significant contribution of the late James L. Crane to Nova Scotia, and express our deepest sympathy to Mr. Crane's family and his wife.

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 1293]

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Health.

RESOLUTION NO. 673

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

Whereas National Immunization Awareness Week occurs in Canada between April 24th and May 1st; and

Whereas immunization has long been a cornerstone of our public health system; and

Whereas the incredible value of immunization was demonstrated in our province last Fall when hundreds of thousands of Nova Scotians received the H1N1 vaccine in the largest immunization campaign that Nova Scotia has ever experienced;

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House recognize the importance of marking National Immunization Awareness Week and thank all those in our public health and health care systems who participate in administering vaccines.

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 Economic and Rural Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 674

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, Hants County-based BioMedica Diagnostics specializes in affordable, portable diagnostic solutions for small clinics and hospitals, including many in developing nations; and

[Page 1294]

Whereas BioMedica announced April 22nd it was undergoing an expansion with support from Nova Scotia Business Inc., which will help the company create up to 25 new jobs in Windsor; and

Whereas Dr. Abdullah Kirumira, the company's founder and CEO, travelled to Toronto this past weekend to accept a Harry Jerome Award for Technology and Innovation through the Black Business & Professional Association of Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the outstanding work of Dr. Abdullah Kirumira for this national recognition, and acknowledge his contribution to our community and Nova Scotia's 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.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 44 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 160 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Maintenance and Custody Act. (Hon. Karen Casey)

Bill No. 45 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 120 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Day Care Act. (Hon. Manning MacDonald)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 675

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

[Page 1295]

Whereas on Saturday, April 24, 2010, Colleen Pinkney's team, from the Truro Curling Rink, beat eight teams from around the world to win the Senior Women's World Curling Championship; and

Whereas the Pinkney Rink won the right to wear Team Canada's sweater when they won the Senior Women's Championship last year in Summerside, P.E.I.; and

Whereas this is the seventh time Canada has won gold in senior women's curling and the first time a team from Nova Scotia has won the championship;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Colleen Pinkney, Wendy Currie, Karen Hennigar, Susan Creelman and their coach, Judy Burgess, for winning the Senior Women's World Curling Championship, 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 Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 676

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

Whereas by winning the 2009 Canadian Senior Women's crown in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, the team from the Truro Curling Club, skipped by Colleen Pinkney, qualified for the global senior women's championship in Chelyabinsk, Russia; and

Whereas the team includes mate Wendy Currie from Dartmouth, second Karen Hennigar from Truro, lead Susan Creelman from Stewiacke, skip Colleen Pinkney from Truro, and coach Judy Burgess from Middle Musquodoboit; and

[Page 1296]

Whereas the team finished the round robin in first place at 7-0, having defeated Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Japan, Russia, the U.S.A., and New Zealand, defeated Sweden's team 8-2 in the semifinal, and Switzerland 8-4 in an extra end in the final;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate these outstanding athletes for becoming the world's senior women's championship curling team and thank them for the honour they brought to Truro, to Colchester County, to Nova Scotia, and to Canada.

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.

[2:30 p.m.]

The honourable member for Kings North

RESOLUTION NO. 677

MR. JIM MORTON: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the member for Kings South, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Horton High School in Wolfville presented the theatre production 42nd Street from February 27th to March 5th ; and

Whereas the performance featured fabulous singing, complex choreography, brilliant costumes, and an exceptional set design; and

Whereas all of the talented performers brought exceptional energy and passion to the show;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the cast and crew of 42nd Street at Horton High School for an exceptional performance, and thank them for their dedication and contribution to the arts in Kings County.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 1297]

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. 678

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 Glooscap Curling Club in Kentville hosted the 2010 Nova Scotia Schools Athletic Federation Western Region Junior High Curling Championships on February 26th and 27th ; and

Whereas Berwick and District School mixed curling team made up of skip Cooper Kelly, mate Reagan Lonergan, second Devon MacDonald, and lead Brooke Godsland, coached by Ray Kelly, won the gold medal; and

Whereas 2010 marks the third consecutive year in which Cooper Kelly and a team representing Berwick and District School have won the regional banner for junior high mixed curling;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the members of Team Kelly on this significant accomplishment, and recognize their dedication to the sport of curling.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 1298]

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. 679

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

Whereas Bell Aliant Pioneers are part of the Telecom Pioneers, the largest industry- based volunteer organization in the world and are mainly retired workers helping individuals with a variety of community programs primarily funded through employee deductions and in-house fundraising each year for more than a century; and

Whereas they give to many community programs and organizations such as food banks, stuffed bears for fire stations, hug-a-bears to the RCMP, heart pillows for bypass operation patients at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, and comfort kits to Transition House, homeless shelters, and Talbot House; and

Whereas one of the programs, entitled the "I Like Me" book program, visits schools and gives books, thousands to different schools every year, including this year when the Pioneers visited three Grade 1 classes at Greenfield and Mount Carmel elementary schools in New Waterford, as well as the Sydney River and Marion Bridge elementary schools;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the volunteer work and fundraising efforts by the Bell Aliant Pioneers in Cape Breton, who are tireless advocates on behalf of folks who so much appreciate their generous work.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

[Page 1299]

The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

RESOLUTION NO. 680

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, Jack van de Reit was recognized by the Milford and District Lions Club for 30 years of service;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Jack van de Reit of the Milford and District Lions Club for his 30 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 Dartmouth East.

RESOLUTION NO. 681

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

Whereas April 26th is Healthy Schools Day in Canada; and

Whereas Healthy Schools Day recognizes that children are especially vulnerable to toxins and hazards in their environment;

[Page 1300]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Healthy Schools Day and encourage the efforts of all people and organizations working to ensure healthy learning environments in our community.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Argyle.

RESOLUTION NO. 682

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Monsieur le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que Pida Infant and Maternity Products de Pubnico-Ouest était fondée en 2006 par Pierette d'Entremont; et

Attendu que Pierette à passée deux ans à faire des recherches et à développer un collier pendentif souple, flexible et aux couleurs vives, une version modifiée du collier d'allaitement qu'elle avait déjà créé pour fixer l'attention d'un bébé durant l'allaitement; et

Attendu que Pierrette et sa fille souffrent tous les deux du syndrome de Tourette et c'est pour cette raison qu'elle reconnaît de première main que son produit sera un outil avantageux pour les enfants avec difficultés d'apprentissage pour aider avec l'inquiétude, le désir de mordie et les problèmes de traitement sensoriel qui accompagnent cette condition et autres conditions semblables;

Par conséquent, qu'il soit résolu que tous les membres de cette assemblée me joigne à féliciter Pierette d'Entremont d'avoir lancé le Kid's Companion et de la remercier d'avoir reconnu le besoin pour ce produit et aussi de la souhaiter un succès qui continue et de la bonne santé

Monsieur le Président, je demande l'adoption de cette résolution sans préavis.

[Page 1301]

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

Whereas Pida Infant and Maternity Products of West Pubnico was founded in 2006 by Pierette d'Entremont; and

Whereas Pierette spent two years researching and developing a soft, pliable, colourful pendant necklace that is a modified version of the original nursing necklace she created to assist in engaging an infant's attention while feeding; and

Whereas Pierette and her daughter suffer from Tourette's Syndrome, therefore she recognized first-hand that this product would be beneficial to special needs children as a tool to assist with the fidgeting, chewing, biting and sensory processing issues that accompany this condition and other like-conditions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Pierette d'Entremont on the launch of the new Kid's Companion and thank her for recognizing the need for this product and wish her continued success and good health.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Pictou East.

RESOLUTION NO. 683

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

Whereas the Pictou County Regional Development Commission hosted the first ever Rural Development Conference in River John, Pictou County, on April 10, 2010; and

[Page 1302]

Whereas a large number of rural business owners, artisans, community groups, municipal councillors and provincial-federal support staff showed up to participate and contribute; and

Whereas the conference, headed up by Rural Development Officer Kelly MacVicar, has been deemed one of the most successful ever hosted by PRDC and is leading to expansion of the event in coming years;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly congratulate Kelly MacVicar, along with all staff and the Board of Directors of the Pictou Regional Development Commission, for a job well done, in support of future rural development in Pictou County.

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. 684

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 Five Bridges Wilderness Heritage Trust is a registered, charitable, volunteer organization working to conserve the public lands in the area bounded by Highway Nos. 103 and 333 on the Chebucto Peninsula in its natural state for public use; and

Whereas the trust works with community groups and governments, conducts GIS mapping, conducts water quality studies and monitoring fish populations, organizes council of community organization meetings, publishes a quarterly newsletter The Bridge, performs trash cleanups, produces information brochures about the land, and holds an annual May Fair in the Park at Jerry Lawrence Provincial Park; and

[Page 1303]

Whereas the trust has now published a book, A Walking Guide to the Old St. Margarets Bay Road by Wayne N. Rogers, to help hikers and canoe and kayak enthusiasts enjoy the area, which is home to a remnant herd of mainland moose, an endangered species;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate the members of the trust on their publication and wish them many more years of enjoyment in the outdoors.

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. 685

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

Whereas Blake MacNeil, upon seeing smoke coming from a six-unit apartment building on Barrington Street, Sydney Mines in April of this year, pounded on the front door of one unit, and hearing a cry for help, he kicked down the door and entered the burning building; and

Whereas he noticed a pair of sneakers on the steps through the black smoke and carried a 50-year-old female from the burning building, continuing to pound on doors, and a young woman and her mother were also evacuated from the building; and

Whereas the first lady to be rescued returned to the building to try to rescue her cats, Blake MacNeil again removed her from the burning building, and when firefighters arrived they also had to extract the woman trying to rescue the cats;

[Page 1304]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Blake MacNeil of Sydney Mines for his courage and determination that made a difference when it mattered most.

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. 686

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

Whereas Volunteer Week was celebrated in Queens recently and is being celebrated around the province to thank those who donate their time and energy to a cause they believe in; and

Whereas one of the volunteer representatives from Queens, Allan Waterman, was nominated by the Pleasant River Community Club for his many years of service in his community; and

Whereas the 36th Annual Provincial Volunteer Awards ceremony recently took place in Halifax and volunteers were honoured for the tremendous contributions they have made to their respective communities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Allan Waterman of Pleasant River, Queens County, for the award to recognize the donation of his time and energy as a volunteer in Queens.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 1305]

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. 687

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 Eastern Front Theatre, in association with the Imperial Oil Foundation, Theatre Nova Scotia, and the Playwrights Atlantic Resource Centre, presented the eighth annual Ten-Minute Play Contest open to Nova Scotia high school students recently; and

Whereas this contest is to encourage young authors to write original works for the stage to help inspire and nurture the next generation of theatre artists; and

Whereas Sean Mott, a Grade 10 student at Eastern Shore District High School, won this playwriting contest and his original work will be showcased at the Neptune Theatre Studio on May 9, 2010;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Sean Mott on his outstanding accomplishment and wish him well in his future playwriting 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.

[Page 1306]

The honourable member for Argyle.

[2:45 p.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 688

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Cape Breton West, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Henri Membertou was the Grand Chief of the Mi'kmaq First Nations during the 16th Century; and

Whereas on June 24, 1610, Grand Chief Membertou was the first person to be baptized in the Dominion of Canada, by Father Jessé Fléché, a secular priest brought to the New World by Jean Biencourt de Poutrincourt, the commander of the French Colonial Empire; and

Whereas the baptism of Grand Chief Membertou and his family was the impetus behind the vast majority of the Mi'kmaq peoples converting to Catholicism in the first half of the 17th Century;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly wish the organizers of celebration Grand Chief Membertou 400, from June 24th to June 27th, the best of luck with their tribute to one of the greatest historic figures 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 Halifax Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 689

[Page 1307]

MS. MICHELE RAYMOND: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Halifax bookstores Woozles Limited and Bookmark Incorporated have each been honoured with a nomination for the Canadian Booksellers Association Libris Awards; and

Whereas Bookmark Incorporated is nominated for the Bookseller of the Year Award; and

Whereas Woozles Limited is nominated for the Specialty Bookstore of the Year Award;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Woozles Limited and Bookmark Incorporated on their award nominations and wish them the best of luck in the upcoming Canadian Booksellers Association Libris 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 member for Halifax Clayton Park.

RESOLUTION NO. 690

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

Whereas the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Business Awards acknowledge outstanding individuals who contribute to the growth and vitality of the Halifax area business community; and

[Page 1308]

Whereas at the chamber's 10th annual awards evening, management and employees of Clayton Developments Limited were recognized with the Silver Award in the 2010 Business of the Year category; and

Whereas this company has been a leading development company in Atlantic Canada since they began development of the new community of Clayton Park in 1959;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize President Dick Miller and the Clayton Developments staff for their excellence in community development and congratulate them on receiving the Silver Award for Business of the Year.

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 Inverness.

RESOLUTION NO. 691

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

Whereas Ned MacDonald gave 22 years of public service to the people of Inverness-Glenville-Dunvegan as a municipal councillor; and

Whereas Ned was a leader in championing development for the area such as the expansion of the Inverary Manor and Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital, supporting the Inverness Miners Museum with his passion for the history of his ancestors, and was kind and approachable to anyone who came to him for assistance and advice; and

Whereas Ned was a devoted husband to his wife Abby and a loving father to his daughters, Janna and Breanna;

[Page 1309]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly observe a moment of silence in honour of Ned MacDonald and his contributions to the people of Inverness County.

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.

[A moment of silence was observed.]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you.

The honourable member for Lunenburg.

RESOLUTION NO. 692

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

Whereas the Centre for Women in Business was established in 1992 at Mount Saint Vincent University and assists entrepreneurs by providing them with the support, resources, training and information they need to start and grow their businesses; and

Whereas Sylvia Booth has been the regional business facilitator on the South Shore for six years working with women entrepreneurs to create an environment where small business owners can grow and prosper; and

Whereas Sylvia Booth is now turning her attention to develop her own business, New View Consulting, providing financial management services to small businesses;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend Ms. Sylvia Booth for her commitment to the many needs of women entrepreneurs on the South Shore of Nova Scotia and wish her the success in all her future endeavours.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[Page 1310]

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 693

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

Whereas volunteers truly are the heart of our community; and

Whereas on Friday, April 23rd, I joined Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, Roger Cuzner, Warden John Boudreau and municipal councillors in recognizing volunteers in Richmond County; and

Whereas the event recognized one volunteer from 125 organizations throughout the county;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the 125 Volunteers of the Year for Richmond County while thanking Warden John Boudreau, councillors and staff for hosting this yearly event.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

[Page 1311]

The honourable member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 694

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

Whereas March 6th was a golden day for girls basketball at Northeast Kings Education Centre; and

Whereas Northeast Kings Education Centre Titans girls basketball team captured their school's first ever D-2 championship on their home court; and

Whereas NKEC outscored Middleton 57-46 in the final to capture the provincial title avenging a 62-61 loss to Middleton in last year's final;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate members of the NKEC Titans girls basketball team and their coaches on winning the D-2 provincial championship.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Bedford-Birch Cove.

RESOLUTION NO. 695

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

Whereas Suzie Ketene is a Halifax mountain biker who holds provincial titles, a national title and has finished in the top 10 at the world championship level of mountain biking; and

[Page 1312]

Whereas beginning Friday, Suzie will be competing in the nine day Trans-Portugal Garmin to raise money for KidSport Canada, a charity that since its inception in 1994 has provided funding for more than 11,000 children to participate in sports; and

Whereas Suzie has more than doubled her original fundraising goal and is only one of six women to compete in this grueling 1,150 kilometre off-road race;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Suzie Ketene on her fundraising efforts and wish her well as she speeds through Portugal raising money for children and sports.

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. 696

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

Whereas in December Justice Minister Landry announced that the correctional facility originally slated to be built in Springhill would be built near his Pictou Centre constituency; and

Whereas despite the fact that the province invested nearly $1 million in site selection and assessments, the government didn't even consider keeping the jail in Springhill; and

[Page 1313]

Whereas a recent impact study shows cancelling the construction of that correctional facility may cost Cumberland County more than $10 million in lost wages and revenue;

Therefore be it resolved that the government reconsider their decision and build the correctional facility in Springhill where it should be located.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

This is just a reminder to honourable members that surnames are not to be used, it should be the minister of whatever or the honourable Premier or whatever, so, just a friendly reminder.

The honourable member for Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 697

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

Whereas Staley Goodwin of Pembroke Shore passed away March 29, 2010, leaving behind his wife of 53 years, Florence, and his three daughters: Heather, Crystal and Shelley, along with his grandchildren, and his extended family and friends; and

Whereas Mr. Goodwin was a well-respected member of the community - with his partner Willis Thibeault, he built Willstay Masonry where for 50 years his masonry skills were in demand throughout the Atlantic Provinces including the many hospitals and the CBC Building here in Halifax; and

Whereas in 1941, Mr. Goodwin signed up with the 4th Princess Louise Dragoon Guards as a wireless operator, where he served throughout Europe, making lifelong friends with a family in Holland;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize the contributions Staley Goodwin has made and offer the condolences of the House to his family and friends.

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 1314]

The motion is carried.

The honourable Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 698

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

Whereas a project on the North Shore of Colchester County has been recognized nationally for outstanding achievement; and

Whereas in this year's competition, sponsored by the Canadian Museums Association, the project of the Creamery Square Heritage Centre in Tatamagouche, Colchester North, showed exceptional innovation because it was able to incorporate the Sunrise Trail Museum, the Brule Fossil Centre, the Anna Swan Museum and the North Shore Archives under one roof, a building that formerly had been the Tatamagouche Creamery; and

Whereas the Creamery Square Heritage Centre project was selected for an award for Outstanding Achievement in the Facility Development and Design category;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly extend their congratulations to the members of the Creamery Square Heritage Centre project for their ability to work together, and for the national recognition they received.

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. 699

[Page 1315]

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

Whereas this past Sunday, April 25, 2010, the Shiloh Community Church celebrated the grand opening of their new worship facility located at 95 Caledonia Road in Dartmouth; and

Whereas guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Lionel Moriah of Acadian Divinity College in Wolfville officiated and the music ministry for the service was supplied by the Hallelujah Praise Choir of St. Thomas Baptist Church, in North Preston; and

Whereas a celebration meal and fellowship time followed the special service and was enjoyed by all the members of the congregation and those visiting;

Therefore be it resolved that all the members of this House congratulate senior pastor, Rev. Ogueri Ohanaka, staff and the congregation of the Shiloh Community Church on their Grand Opening and wish them many more years of worship in their new facility.

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 Inverness.

RESOLUTION NO. 700

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

Whereas small- and medium-sized businesses form the economic backbone of our economy, creating employment for our communities; and

[Page 1316]

Whereas Mabou-based Halifax Biomedical has created innovative biomedical engineering products and demonstrated that this kind of business can happen in rural Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Halifax Biomedical employs 13 people in Mabou, with plans to hire an additional 75 people over the next five years to repair a new spinal fusion assessment system and an intra-medullary rod for pathological femur fractures;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the employees of Halifax Biomedical and their president and CEO Chad Munro, and wish them continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 701

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

Whereas 16-year-old Digby golfer Eric Locke has been chosen as a member of Team Canada by the Royal Canadian Golf Association, and his already-hectic schedule this year will see him play in international tournaments in England, the United States, and Argentina; and

Whereas Eric will be participating later this month in British Columbia at the year's first Future Links Tournament as a member of Team Nova Scotia, a position he secured by winning the provincial junior boys' championship last year; and

Whereas Eric has already attracted a great deal of interest from major universities in the United States, and their recruiting efforts are likely to intensify now that he has been named to the RCGA's men's development team of seven golfers under the age of 22;

[Page 1317]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate Eric Locke on the outstanding accomplishments he has made at such a young age and wish him well in his future golfing 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.

[3:00 p.m.]

The honourable member for Cape Breton North.

RESOLUTION NO. 702

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 Northstar Pride from North Sydney captured the Midget AAA Girls Division 1 Basketball Nova Scotia Championship Tournament held over the weekend at Avonview High in Windsor; and

Whereas Northside finished 2 to 1 in the round-robin portion of the tournament, including a 78 to 49 loss to Bedford, before rebounding dramatically in yesterday's championship game against Bedford to walk away with the 2010 provincial championship; and

Whereas Head Coach Tim Vickers and his assistant, Danielle MacDonald, and the Pride Team, consisting of players Paige MacInnis, Emma Vickers, and Kylee Kotcha, who all have made it to the final tryouts for Basketball Nova Scotia's Provincial Under-15 Girls team, along with their outstanding team members who show basketball enthusiasts from Windsor-West Hants what a truly motivated and exceptional team of basketball players they are;

[Page 1318]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Northstar Pride on their championship win this weekend while wishing every team member every success with their future careers and basketball pursuits.

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. 703

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

Whereas crime victims and their families deserve support from their communities; and

Whereas many victim service providers, police officers, and professionals provide assistance to victims of crime and their families; and

Whereas National Victims of Crime Awareness Week, April 18-24, 2010, offers an opportunity for the community to raise awareness about victims' issues and about the services and laws in place to help victims and their families;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House remember victims of crime and their families in our own province and continue to recognize the need for provincial programs that provide victim services.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 1319]

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. 704

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

Attendu que le 25 février, Le Musée Acadien de Pubnico a organisé un lancement pour introduire un nouveau livre généalogique que la Société Historique acadienne de Pubnico a publié; et

Attendu que le livre, intituler Jacques Mius II (environ 1679-1759) et Marguerite Armirault (1704-1796) 5 générations de descendants, a tracé cette famille qui s'est établie dans les Pubnicos au retour de leur exil après la déportation et de la est censé que tout les acadiens de cette région sont apparenté par le sang à ce couple dans le cas de Jacques et Marguerite; et

Attendu que Pauline d'Entremont, l'auteur principale du livre, a passé 13 ans en compilant des données et en préparant toutes les archives et les rapports à sa disposition aidée par Coral d'Entremont et Christina d'Eon Crowell;

Par conséquent qu'il soit résolu que tous les membres de cette maison me joigne à féliciter la Société Historique Acadienne de Pubnico pour publier ce livre, et remercier Pauline, Coral, Christina, et ne pas oublier Ted, Jean Bernard et Bernice pour leurs efforts collectif et fructueux dans la compilation de ce livre qui sera apprécié par tout les Acadiens pour beaucoup de générations à suivre.

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

Whereas on February 25, 2010, the Acadien Museum of Pubnico hosted a book launch to introduce a new genealogical book that the Acadien Historical Society of Pubnico is having published; and

Whereas the book entitled Jacques II Mius-d'Entremont and Marguerite Amirault 5 Generations of Descendants traces this family that became established in the Pubnicos

[Page 1320]

upon their return from exile after the deportation, and is believed that all Acadiens in this region can confirm that they are blood relations of Jacques and Marguerite; and

Whereas Pauline d'Entremont, the principal author of the book, spent 13 years compiling data and researching all the archives and records at her disposal, assisted by Coral d'Entremont and Christina d'Eon Crowell;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Acadien Historical Society of Pubnico for publishing this book, and thanking Pauline d'Entremont, Coral d'Entremont, Christina d'Eon Crowell along with Ted d'Eon, Marie d'Entremont, Jean Bernard d'Entremont, and Bernice d'Entremont for their collaborative and tireless efforts in compiling this book that can and will be enjoyed by all Acadiens for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 705

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

Whereas each year Richmond Municipal Council recognizes volunteers from organizations throughout the county; and

Whereas this year Colleen Morgan of Whiteside, Volunteer of the Year for the West Richmond Education Centre, was chosen to represent Richmond County at the Provincial Volunteer Awards ceremony; and

Whereas Colleen has volunteered for many functions at the West Richmond Education Centre, where she presently administers fluoride treatments to students in Grade

[Page 1321]

5 to Grade 8, while also being a long-term volunteer with the St. Francis de Sale's Catholic Women's League and the Strait Richmond Hospital;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Colleen Morgan for being chosen to represent Richmond County at the Provincial Volunteer Awards, and thank her for her years of dedication to 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 Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 706

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

Whereas soccer is widely considered the most popular sport in the world, and although we think of women's soccer as a rather recent phenomenon, it has actually been around for quite awhile, with records of matches between women as early as the 19th Century; and

Whereas Jill Curry-Randall, Beth Fraser, Denise Johnson, Lisa Beck-Evoy, Jennifer O'Brien, Kim Benedict, Debra Lynch, Sarah Frank, Kenda Sutherland, Theresa Griffin, Leanna Fudge, Karen Henley and Trina Organ make up the Falmouth Fillies soccer team, which recently won all four games and captured the gold medal at the Supreme Invitational 7-A-Side Women's Tournament; and

Whereas by being active in sports, these women are not only enjoying the thrill of the game, but building relationships with teammates that will flourish well into the future;

Therefore be it resolved that all members in this House of Assembly congratulate the Falmouth Fillies on their great achievement, and wish them all the best in future competitions.

[Page 1322]

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. 707

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 North Shore Community Centre was the host Saturday, April 3rd of a three-course authentic Italian buffet dinner, held to assist the North Shore and District Volunteer Fire Department to raise funds for a new piece of apparatus; and

Whereas more than 100 people attended this special dinner, which saw many local businesses donate prizes for the evening; and

Whereas the North Shore and District Volunteer Fire Department, under the capable direction of Chief Merrill MacInnis and 28 volunteers, serves an area from Jersey Cove to Wreck Cove and South Gut, and has raised $30,000 of the $170,000 they require for the purchase of their new piece of fire apparatus;

Therefore be it resolved that all members in this House of Assembly extend their sincerest best wishes to the North Shore and District Volunteer Fire Department as they continue to work hard raising funds while protecting lives and curbing property damage whenever they are called.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 1323]

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 Inverness.

RESOLUTION NO. 708

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Cape Breton West, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in 1956 a volunteer, Lane Knight, arranged a day for restaurants to give part of their receipts to the Canadian Cancer Society and volunteers handed out daffodils to patrons as a token of appreciation; and

Whereas one of the Canadian Cancer Society's major fundraisers this year is the Daffodil Campaign, which has raised more than $8,500 in Glace Bay this past year; and

Whereas in Nova Scotia last year the campaign raised more than $409,000 for "The Lodge that Gives", a toll-free line that assists anyone with questions about cancer, Camp Good Time, and other programs to assist Nova Scotians dealing with cancer;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly support Daffodil Day in their community so these worthwhile programs can continue to assist Nova Scotians dealing with cancer.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

[Page 1324]

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

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

GOVERNMENT MOTIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: 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 to rise today before we end estimates and take a vote on the budget, as it gives an opportunity as we race towards the first-year anniversary of this government, fast approaching on June 9th, to do a little review and sort of taking stock of some of the commitments that this government made just, in fact, about a year ago as we headed towards an election.

One of the first ones that we need to be cognizant of is the fact that this government said they could bring in a balanced budget. That was very much in their plan and now we know that we've had in fact not one but a second budget come forth that is not balanced; in fact on the heels of what was looking like over a $500 million shortfall, now has been estimated to be at $488 million - far, far from a balanced budget. The prospects for 2010-11 remain very much the same forecast with about a $222 million projected deficit for the coming fiscal year.

So, again, this was a promise made that this government has not been able to deliver on, and it's one that was within reason to expect because when Deloitte gave their review, their report in August 2009, it indicated about a $51 million deficit at most at that time. Since then, of course, there was very, very steep spending - additional monies put into the Industrial Expansion Fund, the purchase of land, prepayments to universities - very quickly adding up to well over $400 million. Again this year we see a continuation of a high degree of spending and now to partner, if you wish, in order to provide for that spending, government has chosen another path which they said they had no reason to move towards during the election period of last year - that is that they would certainly not raise taxes.

[3:15 p.m.]

[Page 1325]

We now know, Mr. Speaker, that when we pass this budget - not that we will support it - but when this budget moves to the House later today, the HST will increase on July 1st, and a full 2 per cent. It can be talked about as restoring it to 15 per cent, but it is not the direction that Nova Scotians wanted from this government, had been promised by this government - in fact we feel that it became the easy decision rather than tough decisions around expenditures.

We had heard from the chambers of commerce, CFIB, we've heard extensively from a wider segment of the business community, and as well the advisory panel said in fact there were three areas that needed to be looked at very closely and, again, one of them was the expenditures of the province. But, instead, we're going down the road of an HST increase - a broken promise. Now we have what looks to be a three- or four- year plan for government and, if they were going to bring in balanced budgets, we know we wouldn't be adding to the deficit of this province.

Again, it was the commitment of no tax increases, a balanced budget, and also not to add to the long-term deficit. Now we see with the plan that was brought forward in the budget that $1.4 billion will be added before this government's term is up. At a time when revenue development is very challenging, it certainly looks like that will become the reality for this province. Again, an area that the NDP, while in Opposition, talked about was getting control of the deficit in this province. It remains a terrible legacy for our children and grandchildren to have to bear, and that is trying to whittle down a deficit that will be well over $13 billion, probably closer to $14 billion, with an interest price tag of $1 billion or very close - so it is not the plan that Nova Scotians had been willing to endorse with the election of June 9th.

They saw a different plan presented and now we have the reality, almost a year later, of a string of broken promises. One that we have heard in this House from the Third Party is the relocation of the Springhill jail. This was an area that the NDP had said "we will honour promises made." The previous government, as they went about their business - yes, so it was in a minority context - thought in fact there would not be changes in the commitments made to communities and we have to remember that while MLAs represent an area, it is the people who are let down. It's not the MLA, it's the people of an area who are let down when commitments are reneged on, when commitments are changed, and what has every indication of a broken promise.

There was over $1 million put into the study, and Springhill had the attributes, the history, and many people with the ability to man that facility - human resources were there and the location seemed to be fine. So, again, we have another promise that is now being turned aside by the NDP Government.

An area that I think comes as a surprise to Nova Scotians was to see that the Pharmacare savings were not turned back to seniors. While seniors do get a little support in

[Page 1326]

this budget, that is, those at the very low end of the monetary scale and those who are on OAS and receiving the supplement will get a little bit of help, but again as we all know, medications, the requirements for drugs for seniors are at a very high level and if those savings could have been turned back into reducing the premium, this would have been a help for all of our seniors. So, again, this did not take place. It was one that in Opposition the NDP had asked for, if that were to occur when the Pharmacare Program went into place.

So, again we now take a look at areas that I think are, potentially, areas that the promise of the government in Opposition and during the election period and the reality of today are shaping up to be two very different scenarios. While we haven't had any notice yet, any indication to our communities about what will happen to ERs, ERs are a problematic area for our province and the NDP has a first draft report from Dr. Ross, a well-noted specialist in the delivery of ER care and who is the consultant in place to advise government. It's looking more and more that, again, a promise made during the election time - one often stated, often repeated was to not close ERs across Nova Scotia and to give residents of small rural communities that sense of comfort, that sense of knowing that you could to an ER and get the delivery of whatever procedure, assistance that they would require.

Another area, of course, is the caregiver allowance program being reviewed. Again, it was said that this would be one of the early deliverables for this government and that has not come to pass. It doesn't seem even at this stage, after 10 months, there is a clear path and direction that the caregiver program will take. We had one piloted in the province and it had the hallmarks of being a good program, one that was given good marks in the communities where it was piloted. The NDP talked about an enhanced program, a higher quality program and once again, we don't see that delivered.

Just last week, we heard two areas of changing positions from the NDP and one of them, of course was the bounty on coyotes that was put in place. This had been an area that the NDP, on the Natural Resources Web site for the past 10 months, had said that a bounty and a cull was not the way to deal with aggressive coyotes. With the movement of coyotes into high density, and especially school areas, that this was not the way that would correct this problem.

Now, we see that again, that flipflop has occurred in this area and we have a bounty in place and we have a very substantial cull that could potentially take place. If you're working to kill off during the next trapping season 4,000 of 8,000 coyotes, that's a very aggressive cull that is about to take place.

One of the areas, again , that was on the floor of the Legislature last week was the position around drilling on Georges Bank. This came as quite a surprise to not just our caucus but to Nova Scotians. This was a position articulated very strongly in Opposition, that the NDP would not be going down the road of drilling on Georges Bank, a very sensitive fishing zone. An area where Nova Scotia owns only about one-fifth but has been identified

[Page 1327]

as very strong fishing area, habitat for a range of species. To have drilling go there is, in the consensus of most Nova Scotians, not a desirable activity.

What we have seen, Mr. Speaker, is a whole list of promises that have been broken, positions articulated by the NDP prior to an election, during the election and now we see a very different course of action.

The new areas, again that I think are just on the radar, are around school closures, teacher layoffs and potentially nurse layoffs in some areas. Even though, of course, we don't have sufficient nursing staff for all the positions that are required in our hospitals but some areas, in fact, may actually see a reduction. With that, Mr. Speaker, I take my place.

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you, honourable member.

The honourable member for Queens.

MS. VICKI CONRAD: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm pleased to rise in my place today to speak to debate on supply. I could stand here today and debate all of the positive merits of our government's budget and I could spent countless time on the progressive initiatives that this government, my government, has put in place and committed to and laid the foundation for the betterment of all Nova Scotians.

Mr. Speaker, I can speak to those points at any time but today I will not. I have stood in my place on a number of occasions here in the House, giving members a glimpse into the constituency of Queens, which includes all of Queens County and the Lunenburg communities of Petite Riviere, Broad Cove, Cherry Hill, Voglers Cove, East Port Medway, parts of Italy Cross and parts of Middlewood.

In the past I have told you about the beautiful geography of Queens, its coastal and inland waters. I have visually mapped out many communities in Queens and their unique qualities, its beautiful forest areas and vast countrysides and parks, from fishing villages to farming communities. I have highlighted, Mr. Speaker, the many festivals, the fire departments and ground search and rescue teams and I have highlighted the strength of our many volunteers throughout Queens.

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to introduce you and the members of this House to some outstanding individuals and organizations in the constituency of Queens, who have made remarkable accomplishments and invested in their own careers while, at the same time, making a positive difference in the lives of many people, their communities and towards education and the environment.

I will start with Dirk van Loon and DvL Publishing, the Rural Delivery publication which Dirk started in 1976. Rural Delivery is one of Canada's most well-loved and well-read

[Page 1328]

rural magazines produced, and I quote, specifically for and by people living and working in the country: Rural Delivery is a farm and country journal for those who are interested in large or small-scale farming - cattle, sheep, poultry, horses and land use and conservation, backyard gardening, traditional crafts and country pursuits, or for those who simply enjoy country life.

[3:30 p.m.]

DvL Publishing has other publications - Atlantic Forestry, Atlantic Beef, and Horse & Pony magazine. There is also a wealth of information on its well laid out Web site which features an on-line Buy Local Atlantic beef directory as well as a farm book directory and green pages with tips and suggestions for rural life. Dirk, through his publishing and his solid and committed interest in the importance of rural live with all of its natural resources, has reached into many hearts and communities across the country.

Mr. Speaker, one organization I would like to bring to your attention is the Medway River Salmon Association which was founded in 2006 and is a volunteer not-for-profit organization. Its members and association president Darrell Tingley are deeply concerned about the health of the Medway River and its sustainability. The Medway River was once renowned for its lush flowing waters and abundance of fish - especially the Atlantic salmon. I understand that the river was an attraction for anglers all over the world and some will even tell you of Prince Philip visiting and fishing the river many years back.

Unfortunately, over the years, like many rivers and watersheds across this province, the Medway has been challenged with the onslaught of acid rain and other environmental pollutants which has led sadly to the decline of some fish stocks - especially the decline in Atlantic salmon. Darrell Tingley and members of the Medway River Salmon Association are working towards bringing the river back to good health and eventually they want to see the repopulation of salmon and trout population through restocking and rearing initiative.

The Medway River Salmon Association's goal is to improve the water quality of the Medway River and watershed. They have begun a fundraising effort that will go towards the largest acid rain mitigation project in North America's history to raise the pH level to 5.5 from Eel Lake in Harmony to the estuary in Mill Village. The Medway River Salmon Association boasts well over 50 members from communities all along the Medway River and they have established affiliates and partners with the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the Nova Scotia Salmon Association.

Mr. Speaker, I fully support the initiatives of the Medway River Salmon Association and its goal of bringing back the health of fish stocks of the Medway River. Roger Savage, RCA, is a well-known and renowned artist specializing in watercolours and has lived in Mersey Point, Queens County, for well over 30 years. I first met Roger in the late 1980s when he was volunteering his time at the Mill Village School with myself and members of

[Page 1329]

a community environmental group. There he was showing students how to do silkscreen art. The pattern he was using was an art drawing that one of the students had created for a contest at the school on reducing, recycling and reusing.

Roger is a passionate artist and through his amazing watercolours one gets a chance to visit many small communities and villages around the world. As well, his art brings out natural beauty and wonders such as flowers, rocks and beautiful seascapes. Roger has had many solo exhibitions and group exhibitions in galleries throughout Nova Scotia and Europe. Roger has experienced and painted at many sites throughout the world such as Austria, Bermuda, the Canary Islands, Columbia, Cuba, the Czech Republic, Ellesmere Island, Devon Island, the Canadian Arctic, France, Germany and Greece.

He has given many presentations, lectures and workshops and among his commissioned work for Queens General Hospital Foundation, the Liverpool International Theatre Festival and Bowater Mersey Paper Company, Roger was also commissioned for pieces in 1997 for the Royal Canadian Mint and again in 1981 at the Royal Canadian Mint for the $100 gold O Canada Commemorative coin. Again, Mr. Savage was commissioned to do the commemorative coin in 1979 for the Nova Scotia logo, Canada Winter Games. In 1978 he was commissioned to do the Royal Canadian Mint $100 Gold Unity Commemorative Coin.

Many pieces of his collections are hung in well over 100 locations. He boasts public collections at Acadia University, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Canada Council Art Bank, City of Berlin, City of Dartmouth, Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown, Dalhousie University, and Saint Mary's University. Roger has private and corporate collections in places such as the Bank of Montreal; Canada News Wires; Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce; CN Explorations; Crosby's Offshore; St. John's, Newfoundland; General Motors; Nabisco Brand; and National Sea Products, to name a few.

Roger has been the recipient of many grants and awards throughout the years, including the 1980 Nova Scotia Environment Award for the Province of Nova Scotia.

Vernon Oickle is another outstanding resident of Queens. Vernon was the editor of The Advance for many years, winning many regional, national, and international awards for writing and photography. His work, and I quote, "helped the paper become one of Canada's best weeklies in its circulation class. Today [he is] the editor of the nationally award-winning newspapers The Bulletin and the Progress Enterprise, both of which have been named Canada's best weekly newspaper in their respective circulation class." As well as editing, Vernon has his weekly comment and opinions section. He approaches his words and comments with reflection, balance, and knowledge, much of the time leaving the reader with good food for thought.

[Page 1330]

Vernon is the author of nine books, including Disasters of Atlantic Canada: Stories of Courage and Chaos, Canada's Haunted Coast: True Ghost Stories of the Maritimes, and The Bluenose. Vernon is active in several community organizations, serving as chair of the Liverpool Regional High School Advisory Council and Dr. John C. Wickwire Academy School Advisory Council. Vernon is a true journalist and writer, bringing a touch of history from the past, looking at and critiquing our current affairs, and giving bits of humor, sadness, real time thoughts, and hints of the unnatural.

Another organization I would like to bring your attention to is the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, a field station operating in Kempt, Queens. The station provides workspace and accommodations for researchers carrying out studies in the area. MTRI is a co-operative of landowners and researchers working together and promoting sustainable use of resources and bio-diversity. MTRI has an established reputation as a topnotch research and education co-operative. I commend the many passionate and dedicated people who work and volunteer at MTRI. Their commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices through research and education is not going unnoticed. I thank Amanda Lavers, Ashley Noto, Brad Toms, Brennan Caverhill, Crystal Doggett, Jane Barker, Jillian Barteaux, Josie Todd, Lesley Farrow, Rachel Thibodeau, Tom Neily, Wendy Whynot, Jeffie McNeil, Lilianne Arsenault, Peter Kydd, Colin Gray, Diane Clapp, Harold Clapp, and Jeff Craft.

I want to finally bring your attention to an amazing group of young people who I had the pleasure of meeting with on the weekend. I was participating as a judge at the 4-H 2010 South Shore Regional Rally, which was hosted at the North Queens Rural High School in Queens. A number of young junior and senior youth from the ages of 9 to16 showcased their talents through public speaking and speech competitions to demonstrations of cooking and craft skills. They worked solo and they worked in teams. I was so impressed with the level of competence, their confidence in their techniques and presentation skills. These young people were prepared, they demonstrated teamwork, and their wonderful personalities shone through. These young people have incredible potential and through 4-H are developing skills and confidence so that they will become role models and leaders in their communities and, like Dirk van Loon, Darrell Tingley and the members of the Medway River Salmon Association, Roger Savage, Vernon Oickle, and the many wonderful staff and volunteers at MTRI, these young people, I have no doubt, will have many remarkable accomplishments in their lifetimes. They will invest in their careers while at the same time giving back positively to their community.

I commend and congratulate Breagh Lane, Serena Meaney, Logan Huskilson, Michelle Riley, Rosalyn Filmore, Katie Dufresne, Grant Cook, Lori Mosher, Emma Rivard, Abby Cook, Miranda Cook, Morgan Cole, Samantha Hawkes, Shane Naugler, MacKenna Silver, Hayley Frail, Emily MacKinnon, Ben Holmes, Brittany Holmes, Amie Riley, Lianne Lenihan, Chelsea Perry, Kaitlyn Harding, Tara McCarthy, Alexander Riley, Andrea Hayward, and Murray Clements. I wish them every success as they continue to pursue their dreams for a promising and bright future.

[Page 1331]

Mr. Speaker, it was my pleasure to give you and the members of this House an idea of who some of our leaders are and who our upcoming leaders in Queens will be for the future of tomorrow. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants West.

MR. CHUCK PORTER: Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to have a few minutes today to stand and talk about a couple of things, and it's good to be back in the House. I was out last week for most of the week with an illness and (Interruption) You noticed I wasn't here, Bill? Well, I appreciate your noticing. It was pretty quiet, he says. (Interruption) Good. Always in some kind of trouble over here, it seems.

Anyway, Mr. Speaker, I was here for a couple of hours last week and I had the pleasure of listening to part of this debate - on Thursday, I believe it was - as we went into Supply, and I heard the member for Digby-Annapolis tell quite a fish story, as some would call it. He talked passionately about the Georges Bank out there and the incredible amount of fish in the water, and he even gave quite a visual description of the boat tilting side to side and doing its thing. I can't imagine ever being out there and going through any of that, but you know, although it seemed quite funny at the time, and he was telling the story very seriously. Even during that story, he seemed to find the Lord there somewhere in that one evening when he was praying to make sure that he got home to shore again and to his family or to wherever it was he was heading, and lo and behold! Thankfully, he did that.

Mr. Speaker, it was always entertaining - and I should say that it is always entertaining when that member gets on his feet and enlightens us with stories from home and many, many other topics as well - but he talked about something, in all seriousness, that we see south of us in the Gulf of Mexico: the real reality of what he was talking about coming to fruition down there with that explosion of that oil rig, and some unfortunate workers there lost in that tragedy. He is quite right. I hope we give some consideration to whatever we do decide to do out there. I think we will. I think people in this province are smart enough and certainly more than educated in the Department of Environment, and in different places that will see anything come forward - if anything does, I don't know that it will. But it is worth mentioning that today. I think that it is something that we need to keep at the top of our mind at all times with the tragedies that do occur and can occur by way of environmental disasters. That is exactly what we're seeing now, due to an oil rig being somewhere. I did see a clip last night on the late news that showed that it is even a going concern to affect the fishery down in that end of the world as well as the Gulf.

We know what that could mean, and certainly as the honourable member for Digby-Annapolis described, the tons of fish that are out there in all that deep water, how that could very well be affected in a short time, and we certainly wouldn't want to see that happening. So I hope that as we move forward and look at those pieces of governance and legislation we take all of these things that we see happening into consideration. I know that with all the

[Page 1332]

wonderful technologies and such that we have these days, it is easy sometimes to step up and make decisions because we think they are all wonderful, and I think for the most part, a lot of this stuff is great stuff. We see great moves ahead in everything that we have done, regardless of the industry, whether it's fishing, farming, or whatever. I mean, it is all a science. There is a lot of work. There is a lot of research that goes into it. But this is serious stuff when we see an incident like that happen, and it reminds us how close this could be to home if we, in fact, went out there and did some drilling and so on.

[3:45 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, I want to talk a little bit today about a couple of things, as I said. One of them is hope for this province. When the NDP were elected last year in June, that was an historical moment, as we've heard on numerous occasions in this House and outside of this House, and that's the democratic process. We're very fortunate in this country to have democracy rule, however, the people have voted and here we are for the next three-plus, maybe four years, who knows how long before we go to the polls again and they're already fairly upset by what they've seen with regard to things like tax increases. Not only did the now-Premier state that there wouldn't be any tax increases, he has implemented them, it's real now, it's coming forward. We are going to have to live with that, we have no choice.

The business community is having a hard time with that and I speak to a lot of them, both bigger businesses as well as the small business community. The small business community, as we know, is already hurting and has been hurting for some time and they don't see this as any help. We need to figure out what it is we're going to do as we move forward.

The big thing, I think, with people, when you talk to people and ask them, what led you to make the change? Well, they wanted a change, they had seen the Tory Party in power for 10 years, they had seen the Liberal Party in past years in power, and back and forth since we've been here in this House, for 250 years. Lo and behold on June 9th history was made and the NDP came into power and they are given a chance.

It was said to me by some people, well, you know what? We hope that they fail. I want to be clear today when I say this, I said, why would you hope that? The last thing you would ever want regardless of who was in government is for them to fail. We have a majority government situation in this province for four, maybe more years, who knows how long, as I said a few minutes ago, and we don't know when we'll go back. The last thing that you want to see is your province fail regardless of who is leading that province. It doesn't matter what Party it is, democracy leads this province, leads this country, that's a wonderful thing in my opinion. Many, many people fought and died for that sacrifice and that right so that we could stand in this House and speak freely as we wish within the regulations of parliamentary language, which I realized today there are some things that you can't say and I guess we all knew that anyway, didn't we?

[Page 1333]

Mr. Speaker, on a serious note, we need to give the people hope, they voted for hope, they voted for change. We haven't seen much by way of change that has been positive, if you talk to the people out there they're concerned. I know that all the honourable members run, they put out their platform, they make their promises as they go door to door - this is the reason that we are better, we've got lots to offer, we're something new. Lo and behold, the public voted, they gave us something new in this province and that's okay, but now they're saying, we can't wait for the next election. I've been asked, when will the next election be? It might be three or four years, we're telling the people, and they're concerned because what they've seen so far, as I said, has not at all been what they anticipated.

We need to instill some hope in the business community, we need to instill some hope in all the people in this province, our children, our grandchildren, seniors aren't really sure what's going to happen. People are nervous. This budget doesn't go a long way to make changes, other than the fact that the changes, at least by talking to people, are not good changes, they don't see a tax increase as a good change, especially right now the way the economics are.

I know the issue of revenue, you need revenue if you're going to continue programs and all of these good things with regard to the finances of the province, but they don't see taxes as being the way to do that and that's really not, certainly as the Tories and as the Opposition, where we think we should be going. We'll see what that does in the years ahead.

As I was talking a few minutes ago, there's a hope that's required, people need some hope. Right now they don't seem to have a lot of hope. They were hoping and wanting hope, they wanted a change. They haven't seen change for the better, they've seen change for the worst now. Even when you go out and talk to some of those long-time NDP supporters, I get the e-mails just like all the members do and people are upset, but they're always upset. When you're in government you never do anything right anyway, that's what I learned from three years of sitting on that side. You can't win, it doesn't matter what you do, you're not here to please everybody, and we all know you can't please everybody, you just can't do it. It doesn't matter who is in government, you're not going to win when it comes to certain things.

However, there are significant things that we do in this House and tax increases are significant. This budget is always significant. We have no say, we've just debated the better part of 40 hours, we'll finish that debate today and really when you ask, when people say, why are you bothering to debate the budget and they're right, why are we bothering to debate the budget? Nothing will change, the vote will take place today, the budget will pass. Unless there's a surprise on the other side, on the government benches over there, on the backbench or somewhere that I'm not counting on, I'm going to assume that the budget will pass by way of a vote today.

[Page 1334]

People are saying, why would you just spend 40 hours - and they're not stupid, Mr. Speaker, they're doing the time, they're doing the math. They're saying, this is costing us an awful lot. We talk about the expense to the people and tight budgets and cutting of programs and additional taxes being applied and they're saying we just spent how many days in here and we're doing this and we're doing that and we're debating a budget that is already a done deal. Why didn't we just call for the vote and put it through?

Well, perhaps that's not the way to do it. Maybe that's not the democratic way to do it. I think it's positive that we have the opportunity, as members, to question ministers and department heads on the estimates. I know that it can be weary for the ministers who spend 10 or 12 or maybe more hours, as some ministers have done. I don't know how many hours the Minister of Health did but I know it was fairly lengthy, and then on to Health Promotion and Protection. Now she has an ability to stand up there and do that and to talk for - I was going to say hours on end but I guess it was quite a few hours on end.

Mr. Speaker, it is worthy of that debate. We have to be able to debate and we have to ask the questions regardless of the situation. We have to figure out where this government is going and what programs will be cut. Now we understand there have been cuts to every department, somewhere along the line of 1 per cent, maybe with the exception of Health, maybe with the exception of Education, but certainly there have been significant cuts that we are going to pay for and we are going to tax the people to pay for them and that's not the right thing to do.

Now with only a few minutes left, Mr. Speaker, I want to move on and I want to talk about a couple of things that are significant in this province. One is that we have a visitor coming this year. The Queen will arrive, as we all know. Now we have asked in Hants West, I have written her and asked that maybe could she drop by and even open a new fire hall that we built in the civic centre in Brooklyn. I have got documentation back, not that she'll arrive but they'll do their best. They don't know what the schedule will be yet. We'd certainly love to see her. She was there in 1976, I believe it was, to open the new Hants Community Hospital at the time. Her Majesty and her husband, Prince Philip were there, a very brief stop on the way through the Valley but, at the same time, it was great to see her.

The people of this province still very much believe in the monarchy when you talk to them. I was quite amazed at how many e-mails and phone calls I received after it was made aware that we had requested the Queen to come to Windsor or West Hants somewhere and pay us a visit. We had people calling who wanted to sing for the Queen, bands that would like to play. They want to host her, not realizing, I assume, that the stops generally aren't long stops, they are quite brief. It has been quite amazing at how many people are still very interested in this historical moment that she could come. You never know, it could be a last visit for her over here to Nova Scotia. We hope not, certainly, but she has been around for quite some time ruling, we don't know what will happen in the years ahead. We wish her nothing but the best, of course, and we always enjoyed the visits of the monarch here.

[Page 1335]

I believe Princess Anne was in Newfoundland and Labrador this past week maybe and left yesterday or today, so a lot of time is still spent by the monarchy here in Canada. I know it has been a long time since her coming to Nova Scotia. I do hope that she is able, however, to get to the Tattoo. I hope those plans do go through, regardless of the issues we've had. It would be good to have her here, it would be nice to have her here in this House. Maybe we will still be sitting when she arrives in July, although I am seeing some frowns over there, perhaps we won't be. Maybe we could convene a special sitting in honour of her coming - you like that idea, Bill? - and honour her coming. It would be quite unique, I would think, myself being somewhat of a history buff. I think it would really be interesting to have Her Majesty The Queen in this Chamber and before all the members of this House. It would, no doubt, be a time to remember forever. How much time do I have left, Mr. Speaker? I'm just about out of time, am I?

MR. SPEAKER: You have about three minutes left.

MR. PORTER: Three minutes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. And just on that, as I said, I'd like to see her here and I'd like to see the visit go through, regardless of the issues we've had, and certainly we'd like to see her in Hants West.

With just a few minutes left, one thing that we know we are very thankful for in this province is our military. We know that we're celebrating the Navy this year, 100 years, I believe, this year in this province. We've got one of the best navies of anywhere in the world and we've seen that on more than one occasion - the Haiti issue just recently. It's not just about fighting, it's about fighting all kinds of things. It's not just about guns and war, it's about these kinds of missions as well and we want to thank them. I want to thank them personally, knowing many members of the Navy and a long history in our family, specifically with the Armed Forces.

My brother serves in Greenwood, I've got two brothers-in-law who both serve; one who has done two terms in Afghanistan and thankfully has come back safe from both and, hopefully, he'll not be returning there. I have another brother-in-law who is now preparing for what looks like will be probably the last mission. I'm hopeful things will end before he has to go, in all honesty - with a young family, a wife and a daughter, it's not pleasant. We know what the job is there and we know the great work our military is doing, and we know the sacrifices that have been made, not only in Afghanistan but in other areas over the years.

I don't think we do enough, really. I know there's a magazine that comes out, we generally all advertise in it. We do what we can, we're members of Legions, we support our Legions, and we do our things. But oftentimes we don't hear a lot about it, we don't maybe do enough in this province, maybe in this country, to recognize all the great work our military does - the Army, the Air Force, and the Navy. Although they have their own little

[Page 1336]

camaraderie, if you want to call it that, and their challenges against one another, we are so fortunate in this country to have a very fine military.

Regardless of where they are in the world, the kind of service they're providing - we wish them all the very, very best in the years ahead, and as this conflict maybe wraps up in Afghanistan, that all of those who are left and those who continue to go, come back safely. We wish them well.

Mr. Speaker, I know my time is just about up, and I want to thank you for the opportunity to speak today going into Supply.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is carried.

[3:56 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Supply with Deputy Speaker Mr. Gordon Gosse in the Chair.]

[6:30 p.m. CWH on Supply 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 Supply reports:

THE CLERK: That the committee has met and has come to agreement on 51 estimate resolutions, including votes on business plans and on capital. The chairman has been instructed to recommend these estimates to the favourable consideration of the House, each without amendment.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is that the House concurs on the report of the Committee of the Whole House on Supply.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Introduction of Bills.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 46 - Entitled an Act to Provide for Defraying Certain Charges and Expenses of the Public Service of the Province. (Hon. Graham Steele)

[Page 1337]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, the bill is printed and I believe the Pages have already distributed a copy to each member.

[PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. GRAHAM STEELE: I move second reading of Bill No. 46, the Appropriations Act, 2010.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 46. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

A recorded vote is being called for.

Are the Whips satisfied?

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[6:32 p.m.]

YEAS NAYS

Mr. Landry Mr. Gaudet

Ms. More Mr. Samson

Mr. Estabrooks Mr. Glavine

Mr. Corbett Ms. Whalen

Mr. Dexter Mr. McNeil

Mr. Steele Mr. Manning MacDonald

Ms. Maureen MacDonald Mr. Scott

Mr. Paris Ms. Casey

Ms. Jennex Mr. Clarke

Mr. MacDonell Mr. d'Entremont

Mr. Belliveau Mr. MacLeod

Ms. Zann Mr. MacMaster

Mr. MacKinnon Mr. Bain

Ms. Conrad Mr. Porter

Mr. Gosse Mr. Younger

Ms. Kent Ms. Regan

Mr. Wilson Mr. Colwell

Mr. Preyra Mr. Theriault

Ms. Raymond Mr. Zinck

[Page 1338]

Mr. Smith

Mr. Epstein

Mr. Prest

Mr. Ramey

Mr. Skabar

Mr. Whynott

Mr. Morton

Ms. Birdsall

Mr. Boudreau

Mr. Burrill

THE CLERK: For, 29. Against, 19.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is carried.

[PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 46, the Appropriations Act, 2010.

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

A recorded vote is being called for.

Are the Whips satisfied?

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[6:36 p.m. ]

YEAS NAYS

Mr. Landry Mr. Gaudet

Ms. More Mr. Samson

Mr. Estabrooks Mr. Glavine

Mr. Corbett Ms. Whalen

Mr. Dexter Mr. McNeil

Mr. Steele Mr. Manning MacDonald

Ms. Maureen MacDonald Mr. Scott

Mr. Paris Ms. Casey

[Page 1339]

Ms. Jennex Mr. Clarke

Mr. MacDonell Mr. d'Entremont

Mr. Belliveau Mr. MacLeod

Ms. Zann Mr. MacMaster

Mr. MacKinnon Mr. Bain

Ms. Conrad Mr. Porter

Mr. Gosse Mr. Younger

Ms. Kent Ms. Regan

Mr. Wilson Mr. Colwell

Mr. Preyra Mr. Theriault

Ms. Raymond Mr. Zinck

Mr. Smith

Mr. Epstein

Mr. Prest

Mr. Ramey

Mr. Skabar

Mr. Whynott

Mr. Morton

Ms. Birdsall

Mr. Boudreau

Mr. Burrill

THE CLERK: For, 29. Against, 19.

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. (Applause)

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. FRANK CORBETT: Mr. Speaker, that concludes the government's business for today. I move that the House do now rise to meet tomorrow from 12:00 noon until 8:00 p.m. After the daily routine and Question Period we'll be calling the order of business, Public Bills for Second Reading for Bill No. 24, and if time permits Bill Nos. 29, 33, 35, 36, 38 and 41.

MR. SPEAKER: There is a motion to adjourn.

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

The motion is carried.

[Page 1340]

We are adjourned until 12:00 noon tomorrow.

[The House rose at 6:39 p.m.]

[Page 1341]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 709

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's NDP Government is committed to giving seniors options to stay in their homes and communities longer; and

Whereas there is an aging population in the Guysborough-Sheet Harbour area with an increasing need for adaptations to ensure that seniors can lead healthy, active lives; and

Whereas the Municipality of the District of St. Marys will be utilizing funding from the Age Friendly grant that they were awarded to install eight park benches within the municipality;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Municipality of the District of St. Marys for their leadership on applying for and receiving funding from the Age Friendly grant program.

RESOLUTION NO. 710

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's NDP Government is committed to creating the secure jobs that Nova Scotia's economy needs; and

Whereas the Community Development Trust Fund, a federal and provincial initiative that began in 2008, assists in research, improved productivity, innovation and training; and

Whereas the Atlantic Aqua Farms of Guysborough is using their funding to develop processing technology for tunicate removal from blue mussel lines;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Atlantic Aqua Farms on receiving funding from the Community Development Trust Fund to assist with research and productions initiatives.

[Page 1342]

RESOLUTION NO. 711

By: Hon. Ramona Jennex (Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations)

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

Whereas the Coldbrook and District School has a celebrated history of contributing to the positive development and learning of children; and

Whereas the production of Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka Junior took place on March 29th to 30th, with separate casts of students for each performance; and

Whereas with the support and assistance of dedicated staff, the students brilliantly performed a complex production with exemplary singing and choreography;

Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the cast and crew of Willy Wonka Junior at Coldbrook District School for a truly incredible performance and thank the production team, parents, and community for their appreciated support, guidance, and dedication.

RESOLUTION NO. 712

By: Ms. Pam Birdsall (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas 12-year-old Lunenburg resident Bromlyn Myra was born an amputee and has been actively involved with the War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program for as long as she can remember; and

Whereas the War Amps have a strong relationship with the public, not only through the CHAMP program but also through their valuable lost key return service, which has seen the return of more than one million sets of keys since its inception in 1946; and

Whereas the 2010 War Amps key tags were sent out to Nova Scotians at the end of March, with a special message about the 65th Anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend Bromlyn Myra on her continued involvement with the CHAMP program and recognizes the valuable services provided by War Amps Canada.

[Page 1343]

RESOLUTION NO. 713

By: Ms. Pam Birdsall (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas Lunenburg Volunteer Firefighter Tom Hillier was injured during a hockey game in 1982, leaving him unable to walk; and

Whereas Tom Hillier spent six months in rehabilitation and battled with his loss of mobility, yet persevered and went on to become an active volunteer and employee with Fisherman's Memorial Hospital; and

Whereas Mr. Hillier was recognized on March 30, 2010, by the Canadian Paraplegic Association with the 65 Star Award, which honours individuals who, despite suffering spinal cord injuries or permanent disabilities, have continued on with life.

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Tom Hillier on his Canadian Paraplegic Association 65 Star Award, and wish him every success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 714

By: Ms. Pam Birdsall (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas the NDP Government is committed to reducing health care unit wait times; and

Whereas South Shore Health CEO Alice Leverman says that South Shore Health is now within nationally recommended guidelines for wait times for cataract surgeries, due to the support of South Shore Health and the co-operation of surgical services and the ability to temporarily double operating room time to address the backlog; and

Whereas cataract surgery promotes safety and independence and improves quality-of-life activities and allows greater participation in community and social activities;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend South Shore Health for reducing wait times for cataract surgery and recognize that the Nova Scotia Government is keeping its commitments to Nova Scotians to provide better health care services.

[Page 1344]

RESOLUTION NO. 715

By: Mr. Chuck Porter (Hants West)

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

Whereas macular degeneration in your eyes brings a crippling blow to one's eyesight without the proper treatment; and

Whereas the unfortunate part about macular degeneration is that you never know when it might strike or whether you will be victimized by the wet version of macular degeneration; and

Whereas at the present time MSI refuses to pay the cost of Lucentis treatments to assist with this debilitating eye disease because the cost averages $1,000 per treatment, with those treatments often coming once a week in the early stages;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly demand the Minister of Health to convene a special meeting of the Department of Health's Drug Formulary Board and ask that a complete analysis be undertaken so this drug will soon become available for people suffering from macular degeneration without forcing some victims into bankruptcy.

RESOLUTION NO. 716

By: Ms. Kelly Regan (Bedford-Birch Cove)

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

Whereas the 5th Annual Maritime Business Ethics Awards were held on November 18, 2009, in Halifax by the Better Business Bureau of the Maritime Provinces; and

Whereas these awards recognize organizations that exemplify above-average standards of ethical behaviour and social responsibility; and

Whereas Alice Housing of Dartmouth received this year's award for not-for-profit organizations, in recognition of the commitment they have made to supporting women and children escaping domestic violence;

[Page 1345]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate the staff and volunteers of Alice Housing for this recognition and wish them continued success with their mission.

RESOLUTION NO. 717

By: Ms. Kelly Regan (Bedford-Birch Cove)

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

Whereas the 5th Annual Maritime Business Ethics Awards were held on November 18, 2009, in Halifax by the Better Business Bureau of the Maritime Provinces; and

Whereas these awards recognize organizations that exemplify above-average standards of ethical behaviour and social responsibility; and

Whereas Minas Basin Pulp and Power Company Ltd. received the award for companies with more than 100 employees, in recognition of the commitment they have made to environmental sustainability;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate the employees of Minas Basin Pulp and Power Company Ltd. for this recognition and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 718

By: Ms. Kelly Regan (Bedford-Birch Cove)

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

Whereas the Bedford Volunteer Awards were created in 1982 to honour the many volunteers of our community; and

Whereas the Bedford Lionettes nominated Nancy Powell to receive the award from their organization at the recognition ceremony on Sunday, April 18, 2010; and

Whereas Nancy has been a member of the Lionettes for 50 years, working on the silent auctions for the Seniors Dinners, and helping her husband prepare the meals, as well as working at the annual Levee and any other activities the Lionettes are involved in;

[Page 1346]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Nancy Powell on being honoured for her volunteer service by the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Committee and wish her well in her, no doubt, many and varied future volunteer activities.

RESOLUTION NO. 719

By: Hon. Ramona Jennex (Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations)

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

Whereas on Monday, April 26th, the Village of New Minas will be holding its volunteer luncheon; and

Whereas the celebration will pay tribute to Provincial Volunteer Award winner Laura Huntley who since 1993 has been involved with the New Minas Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, Girl Guides of Canada, the New Minas Recreation Pre-School Summer Program, and Kings County Academy Kings Wood Camp; and

Whereas the event will also honour Mary Stevens, who since 2000 has been involved with the New Minas Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, the New Minas District Lions Club, and the Kings Historical Society;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Laura Huntley and Mary Stevens on their honour and distinction of being recognized at the Village of New Minas volunteer luncheon, and commend and thank all volunteers who contribute so much to our communities.

RESOLUTION NO. 720

By: Hon. Percy Paris (Tourism, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas on April 23, 2010, the Nova Scotia Historical Newspapers Web site was launched by Scotia Archives and Records Management, Libraries Nova Scotia, and the Beaton Institute; and

Whereas this resource makes it possible for anyone to instantly access high-quality digitized images of over 19,000 pages of Nova Scotian news; and

[Page 1347]

Whereas the Web site contains 18 publications from around the province going back to 1769, and features content from Gaelic, Mi'kmaq, and African Nova Scotian communities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Nova Scotia Archives and Records Management, Libraries Nova Scotia, and the Beaton Institute on the success of this wonderful resource, another example of the province's commitment to providing accessible services to Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 721

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas the Canso Bluefins Atom B hockey team attended the Mabou Invitation Tournament on January 8th and January 9th; and

Whereas the Canso Bluefins Atom B hockey team are: Ryan Casey, Alexander Kavanaugh, Ryan O'Handley, Janelle Delorey, Dylan Carr, Riley Hoben, Ryan Dobson, Trevor Delorey, Natalie MacMillan, Aaron Fanning, Liam Avery, Alex Manthorne, Spenser MacKeen, Logan Poison and Trey Rhynold; and

Whereas the Canso Bluefins won the gold medal in the tournament;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate the Canso Bluefins Atom B hockey team for winning the silver medal at the 5th Annual Audrey MacDonald Memorial Tournament and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 722

By: Mr. Jim Boudreau (Guysborough-Sheet Harbour)

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

Whereas the Canso Bluefins Pee Wee B hockey team attended the 5th Annual Audrey MacDonald Memorial Tournament in Thorburn on January 16th and 17th; and

Whereas the tournament game MVPs for the tournament were Andrew O'Leary, Jacob Halloran, Brendan Geddes and Charley Snow; and

[Page 1348]

Whereas the Canso Bluefins won the silver medal in the tournament;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate the Canso Bluefins Pee Wee B hockey team for winning the silver medal at the 5th Annual Audrey MacDonald Memorial Tournament and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 723

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, Halifax Regional Municipality has recognized the Head of St. Margaret's Recreation Association Board for the contribution they have made to the community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly extend congratulations to the Head of St. Margaret's Recreation Association Board for their contribution to the community and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 724

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, Municipality of Chester has recognized Ms. Annette Zinck of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

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Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Annette Zinck and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 725

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mrs. Sylvia Webber of Chester Basin for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Sylvia Webber and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 726

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Ms. Carol Weinberg of Chester Basin for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

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Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Carol Weinberg and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 727

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Ian Grant of Hubbards for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Ian Grant and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 728

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Sydney Hart of Windsor Road for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Sydney Hart and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 729

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By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Robert Hutt of New Ross for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Robert Hutt and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 730

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Cyril McDonagh-Harnish of Blandford for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Cyril McDonagh-Harnish and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 731

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

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Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Lawson Miller of Northwest Cove for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Lawson Miller and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 732

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Mike Slauenwhite of Western Shore for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Mike Slauenwhite and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 733

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

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Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mr. Syd Dumaresq of Chester for the tremendous contribution he has made volunteering in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Syd Dumaresq and express appreciation for his volunteer service to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 734

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Ms. Sarah Gates of New Ross for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Sarah Gates and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 735

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mrs. Joan Chandler of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

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Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Joan Chandler and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 736

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Ms. Gillian Bond of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Gillian Bond and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 737

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Ms. Peggy Hamlin of Forties for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Peggy Hamlin and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 738

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By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mrs. Jean Johnson of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Jean Johnson and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 739

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mrs. Carol Nauss of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Carol Nauss and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 740

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

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Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mrs. Mae Payne of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Mae Payne and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 741

By: Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse (Community Services)

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

Whereas April 18th through April 24th is recognized as Volunteer Week in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteers are the heart of our communities; and

Whereas on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, the Municipality of Chester has recognized Mrs. Janet Piers of Chester for the tremendous contribution she has made volunteering in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Janet Piers and express appreciation for her volunteer service to her community.

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