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HALIFAX, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013

Sixty-second General Assembly

First Session

10:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Ms. Margaret Miller

MR. SPEAKER » : Order, please. We'll now begin the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

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

Bill No. 19 - Trade Union Act.

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

729

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

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TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Natural Resources on an introduction.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, if I can bring everybody's attention to the east gallery, I would like to introduce the House of Assembly to two special people from the Christmas tree industry: Jonathan Veinotte from Upper Northfield, Lunenburg County; and he is joined by Richard Levy, executive director of the All Nova Scotia Green Christmas Tree Co-op. I'm happy to inform the House that these are the gentlemen responsible for our beautiful 16-foot Christmas tree that was donated to Province House. So on behalf of all of us, thank you very much and please receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

RESOLUTION NO. 388

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

Whereas Nova Scotia is Canada's second-largest exporter of Christmas trees - an industry that injects $30 million into the provincial economy every year; and

Whereas the Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers Association, Mike Keddy, and members Murray Crouse of Fauxburg, Jeff Reeves of Forties, Anzil Blackadar of New Canada, and Jack Wentzell of Parkdale donated trees to His Honour the Lieutenant Governor, the Premier, the Minister of Agriculture, and to me as Minister of Natural Resources, and which were in turn presented to charities here in the province on December 4^th; and

Whereas the House of Assembly has its own marvellous 16-foot tree donated by Jonathan Veinotte of Upper Northfield, Lunenburg County, a member of the All Nova Scotia Green Christmas Tree Co-op Ltd., for the enjoyment of the members, their families, and the guests who visit Province House this month;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature thank the Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers Association for their generosity, and extend our warmest Season's greetings and best wishes this year.

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Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

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. 28 - Entitled an Act to Establish a Public Consultation Process on the Enhancement of the Canada Pension Plan. (Hon. Maureen MacDonald)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 389

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

Whereas the Canada Pension Plan has a decades-long track record of delivering retirement income to Canadians, with very low administrative costs; and

Whereas it is no secret that we face a retirement crisis in terms of income security for many people who have inadequate pensions; and

Whereas most provinces, pension experts, labour unions, and seniors' organizations agree that enhancing the Canada Pension Plan is the best way to avoid a crisis of income insecurity in the very near future;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature support immediate concrete action to improve Canada's retirement income so that Canadians can retire with dignity.

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Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The time is now 10:10 a.m.; we will finish at 11:40 a.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

DEP. PREM.: HEALTH SUPERSTRUCTURE - UPDATE

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to return to where we started in this House session, just a few short weeks ago, when we were here for the first time since the election and were determined, and I believe sincerely so from all sides, to find areas of common ground where we can work together. So I do have a question for the Deputy Premier and it is in that spirit.

Mr. Speaker, we read in allnovascotia.com today that there may well be a report coming forward from the Deputy Premier, who is our Finance Minister, of a looming budget deficit and it may be reported as a sizeable one. I want to point out today that one of the areas where there is a great similarity between the Official Opposition and our position and the position of the Liberal Government is in the need to find savings in the number of district health authorities across our province - the great health super-bureaucracy that exists - to ensure that that money is available for actual health care.

It's a common commitment of the Liberal Party in their election platform and of the PC Party in ours, Mr. Speaker, so we are here and ready to work with the government on the savings that can be found from a proper and overdue rationalization of the health bureaucracy.

My question to the Deputy Premier, who is also Finance Minister, can she provide us with an update on when the government will be moving to change the health superstructure and the number of district health authorities?

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HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the Leader of the Official Opposition. I don't have the exact timing of that process that is underway with the DHAs and I think it would be more appropriate to let the Minister of Health and Wellness speak to that. I would like to suggest that we are looking for savings as we go forward and, as Finance Minister, in that capacity I'm looking for savings in all departments. We've asked for a 1 per cent reduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. LEO GLAVINE » : Mr. Speaker, to the Leader of the Official Opposition, I can perhaps give a short version or I can give a very long version.

MR. SPEAKER « » : We'll go with the short one.

MR. GLAVINE « » : We've got two more questions so I just want to say first and foremost, where this is a significant change as to how we will deliver health care in the future, it is one that needs strong consultation with medical stakeholders, with the public, with unions. That will be kicked off and a schedule coming out early in the new year, when we will visit all of the existing nine DHAs. The overarching plan is in place but we now need to put the details for Nova Scotians early in the new year.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that answer. I said a moment ago that it is important that we return to the place where we started in this session and that is to find areas of common ground where we can work together. I do know that we veered - all of us, from all sides - from that intent, from time to time, even just in the last two weeks, but I do want to return to that important place where we worked together on areas where we agree and this is one.

In fact, I just want to offer to the Deputy Premier and the Minister of Health and Wellness, that we put together our own plan on this. It's not exactly the same as the government's, but it's close. I hope that we can work together and maybe even meet as Leaders and Health Critics and ministers on how best to go about finding those savings that all Nova Scotians know are out there in our Health and Wellness super-bureaucracy.

Having said that, it is actually the health care workers themselves and the service they provide that I have in mind today. As long as they wait, they wait with uncertainty about their jobs, about the service that they provide, about what the future will look like for them and their employer. I would like to ask the Deputy Premier if she can commit to moving quickly on this important issue so that health care workers can get on with whatever the new situation looks like for them?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to convey to the Leader of the Official Opposition that this will occur within the first full year of our mandate. In early January, a plan will come out, and one of the things in the early days of the plan will be to convey to all health care workers that this will be delivered in a very strategic, thoughtful manner with little or no impact on the jobs of those who deliver the high-quality health care to the Province of Nova Scotia.

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MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, again I want to thank the Deputy Premier and the Minister of Health and Wellness for their words on this area of common ground that we can work on together. I know that when we in Opposition put health authority reduction in our platform we did our homework on how best to achieve it without unduly impacting health care workers themselves. I just want to offer to share our work with the government as they put together their plan. Again, it's not exactly the same, but it's close enough that we can get to a better place by working together on this important issue. I will again say that we are more than happy to do that when we find areas of common ground like we do here.

Recent reports, like those in allnovascotia.com, that indicate that the province may well not have a surplus, as was previously reported, but may in fact have a deficit mean that there will be more debt and less money for actual health care service in the future, as opposed to administration. We all want to avoid that if possible, so when health care savings can be found in administration, I believe it's important that we act to find those savings. I know it is an area of agreement between the government and the Official Opposition.

I want to ask the Deputy Premier, who is our Minister of Finance and Treasury Board, if she will agree to provide a timeline on health authority reduction along with her upcoming fiscal update?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, the question I thought was going to the Minister of Health and Wellness on the timeline for his changes to the DHAs. I can say that we will not have that ready to provide for you when the update is done. I'm legislated to provide an update before the end of this calendar year, so that is underway. A lot of planning is already underway for that. On the day that I give the fiscal update, that's what we'll be focusing on singularly. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

DEP. PREM.: GUYSBOROUGH-EAST. SHORE-TRACADIE MLA

- NEWSPAPER ARTICLE

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Deputy Premier. I, like most Nova Scotians, was disappointed to read the details of past land dealings by the member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie in today's ChronicleHerald. This October, when similar details were disclosed by the same publication, the Premier defended the member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie, alleging the story contained "misrepresented, distorted facts that aren't checked, that are inaccurate being put on, being out into the media as if they're accurate." I'll table that article.

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My question to the Deputy Premier is, does she believe the facts presented in today's ChronicleHerald are accurate, and if not, what specific details would she take issue with?

MR. SPEAKER « » : The question doesn't apply to any specific ministry. We will have a brief recess.

[10:19 a.m. The House recessed.]

[10:20 a.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : I would suggest to the honourable member that whether the minister in question is asking her opinion on an article in the newspaper is not a proper question. Did you have something else?

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, in October when details were revealed regarding the past transactions made by the member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie when he was president of the Guysborough Tourism Complex Limited. The Premier was quoted as saying that "he has been forthright and honest and up front in all my dealings with him."

So my question for the Deputy Premier is, can she confirm that the Premier and the government caucus had conducted a full review into the past business dealings by the member, and if we can expect that the results of that review will be provided to the public?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Thank you for rephrasing the question.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON » : Mr. Speaker, I find it most unfortunate that this matter is being brought to the floor of the Legislature. There have been two articles on this. I believe the member from Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie has been honest and up front with this, and we're still at a loss as to exactly what allegation is being alleged in the article as there is none. This matter has clearly been dealt with and I am sure the Premier stands behind his initial comments on this matter.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, the Premier has stated repeatedly that trust is the yardstick by which Nova Scotians should measure this government. In the interest of trust, will the Deputy Premier request that the member from Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie make available all financial and legal documents related to the swap of land between the Guysborough Tourism Complex and the wife of the member from Guysborough-Easter Shore-Tracadie in 1995?

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MR. SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, when it comes to a question of trust there is no better judge of trust than the residents of Nova Scotia, and when it comes to the member in question that the NDP have decided today to attack, I would suggest that the people have passed judgment in electing him for 25 years as a municipal councillor. He has served the people of his municipality with distinction not only as a councillor but also as a warden, and they have rewarded that most recently by electing him to this Chamber. To have the Leader of the NDP now not only question him, but question his wife is absolutely deplorable. (Applause)

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

DEP. PREM.: CAPITAL DIST. HEALTH AUTH. - FAST FOOD FRANCHISES

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : I'd like to return to health care, if I may - an issue of great interest to all Nova Scotians.

Mr. Speaker, in allnovascotia.com this morning it was reported that the government may well find that it's back into a deficit position, that the debts of the province continue to run up. That makes it very important that we work together to find waste and inefficiency in our system, like the number of health authorities, and ensure that that money is saved and directed to actual health care.

I do have a question for our Deputy Premier, who is also the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board. Last year it was discovered that Capital Health had been denied permission by the former NDP Government to end its subsidy to a Tim Hortons franchise and other private fast-food providers at its premises in the Capital District Health Authority.

Mr. Speaker, this is an area where I believe there is also common ground between the new Liberal Government and the Official Opposition, who both called the government of the day on why they would take health care dollars and spend it on fast-food franchises. In fact, the Leader of the Liberal Party, now our Premier, said at the time that it was corporate welfare of the worst kind, and I could not agree more.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to ask the Deputy Premier, now that they are in government, is that still the policy of the Liberal Party?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, we appreciate that question. As the honourable Leader of the Official Opposition has said, this was something that we felt was wrong, when we looked at it as we were in Opposition. I can assure the member that this is something that is being looked at in the Department of Health and Wellness.

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MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that answer from the Deputy Premier. This is an area where we can work together. Capital Health has reported that they expect to lose approximately $1.4 million on subsidies to private, fast-food providers like Tim Hortons on their premises each year and tried three times, under the previous NDP Government, to get permission to stop handing that money off to private companies like Tim Hortons, so that they could then spend it on actual health care delivery.

I am very pleased to hear that just like us, in the Official Opposition, the government sees the error in allowing our tax dollars to be used in such a wasteful way.

Mr. Speaker, I will ask the Deputy Premier, will she take action to ensure that no health authority in Nova Scotia is allowed to prop up a private, fast-food franchise with our tax dollars?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the Leader of the Official Opposition for the question. It's one of those areas that when you come into government, it is part of the business plan for this year. So far it is underway. We are currently working with Capital Health to see whether or not the contract is there for a period of time and how we can now deal with this. It is a question that has come back to be a current one, not just from the Opposition bringing it forward but as we look at business plans and where future changes can be made that will, in fact, put that kind of money on the front line.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that answer. Again this is an area where Nova Scotians have sent us here in government, in Opposition, to find areas of common ground that we can work on to make life better for them. Stopping the use of our tax dollars to subsidize a private Tim Hortons or other fast-food outlets in our hospitals is a great way to actually ensure that our tax dollars get to real health care delivery and send a message about the importance of health promotion in our hospitals themselves, where the government is not actually encouraging the sale of donuts and French fries and so on in their own cafeterias.

I would like to ask the Deputy Premier if she can provide us the assurance that it will be the policy of the new government going forward that none of the Health budget will be used for subsidy of private, fast-food outlets in our hospitals.

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, first of all I want to convey to the Leader of the Official Opposition that I certainly would welcome an opportunity to meet with him and look at some of the plans they were developing that would deliver stronger health care for all Nova Scotians. This is one of those areas that can be the top of mind when we do meet.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

HEALTH & WELLNESS - PARAMEDICS: BENEFITS - RETENTION

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HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. Paramedics extracted significant concessions from the previous government through collective bargaining. They left the remaining issues to arbitration. Paramedics were always concerned that any gains made would be clawed back by the company through increasing the costs of their benefits. So my question to the minister is, what assurances can the minister give paramedics that they won't be forced to give back any hard-won gains to the company that they work for and from which they must purchase health benefits directly?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I want the member opposite, the Official Opposition House Leader - I want to speak about paramedics whom we all know deliver one of the strongest services of critical care in the province. (Applause)

We want to be a government that does everything to keep advanced care paramedics here and work to make sure that their livelihood is protected, they get the training that they need. And in this particular area, I would have to say, at this stage, I have not looked at the details of the last contract and how it is going to impact on the compensation for paramedics, but it is one that I can assure the member opposite that I am prepared to take a detailed look at and to hear from paramedics directly on how it may affect them.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I do thank the minister for that answer because it does roll into my next question, but I'm going to provide him with a little more detail and help him out a little bit here. There's some evidence already that paramedics will be forced to pay back some of that hard-won money through collective bargaining and arbitration through increased benefit premiums.

In fact, a memo dated December 4^th informed members of the IUOE Local 272 that in the Spring IUOE Local 272 was notified of the decision to hold and defer any premium changes for the short-term disability and long-term disability plans while working through the collective bargaining negotiation process.

This is, Mr. Speaker, an admission that the company was waiting to see what the new contract would cost before setting benefit premiums. The memo also lets union members know that their premiums will be going up $12 each pay.

Mr. Speaker, my question to the minister is, the Department of Health and Wellness is the sole customer of EMC Nova Scotia; would the minister meet with the company officials and make sure that union members are treated fairly?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, that's a very, very important question in regard to paramedics and making their livelihood in the province while delivering first-class, really a top-class service of anywhere in North America. I will meet with the new head of EMC to discuss this issue, but I can guarantee this House I won't be a minister who interferes with negotiations.

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MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, and no, I hope not, because we saw what it cost us on the last round. So my final question to the minister, requiring employees to purchase health benefits from the company that they work for puts a company in an unfair advantage. As you know, there's a lot of give and take here as it's a conflict of interest that EMC is actually owned by Blue Cross who gives them their insurance as well. So my final question is, will the minister look into allowing paramedics to purchase health benefits from whichever company that they choose?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, to that question, I can assure the member opposite that this will be part of reviewing with the head of EMC because they are providing a service to the Government of Nova Scotia and to all Nova Scotians, and having a good deal for paramedics is a good deal for Nova Scotians.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

FIN.: CPP ENHANCEMENT - STANCE

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board. Financial analysts have been warning for some time that Canadians are not saving enough for retirement. A growing number of hard-working Nova Scotians are facing retirement without adequate pension income through workplace plans, personal savings and have only the Canada Pension Plan to rely on. When the provincial Finance Ministers met last year, there was a growing consensus that the Canada Pension Plan is the best vehicle for addressing what will be a serious income and consumption crisis very soon.

My question to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board is, where does your government stand on enhancing the Canada Pension Plan?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the member opposite who was the former Minister of Finance, who would know some of the discussions that are being held with other Ministers of Finance across the province. Absolutely, it is on the agenda for Finance Ministers to look at retirement security for Canadians. There is evidence that the CPP is a strong plan that has weathered the decades since it was brought in.

At present we are still in discussions and negotiations and following the debate federally. Thank you.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, I didn't hear a rousing support for the Canada Pension Plan from our government. Nearly one-third of our workforce will face a steep drop in their standard of living by the time they retire. Most provinces, pension experts, labour unions and seniors' organizations agree that enhancing the Canada Pension Plan is the best way to avoid a crisis of income security in the very near future.

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My question through you to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board is, would she please explain why her government is so indifferent to a problem which surely will not go away any time soon without acting to improve CPP?

MS. WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, the question of enhancing retirement income is not one that can be answered in just a few short sentences here in Question Period. I would like to say that our government takes it very seriously that people are retiring without adequate replacement income from private pension plans or from their own savings or from the Canada Pension Plan. The member is wrong in saying that this would be - I wrote it down - she said in the very near future that this would help. An enhancement to the CPP will be a long-term position. It is not going to help in the near future. It won't help people who are already retired or about to retire. It will help young workers who are putting their money in for 30 or 40 years and then will retire.

The urgency of changing the CPP is not immediate. The discussions are underway. The federal minister and the provincial ministers are looking at it. It is something that needs to be in the mix with public plans, voluntary plans and so on.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty has been dragging his feet on any action that would lead to improving the Canada Pension Plan. First he said he wanted all the provinces in agreement and then he said the economic recovery following the recession had to be stronger. My question for the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board is, why are she and her government adopting the position of the Harper Government on enhancing the Canada Pension Plan?

MS. WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, again, I think the member opposite is wrong in suggesting that she understands what the position is of the government. We have a position of being responsible and caring for pensioners and doing our very best to look after the people of Nova Scotia as they approach retirement or are in retirement.

I spoke strongly against a move by the NDP Government which took away the indexing of pensioners that were under the Public Service Plan and that, I think, shows where our intentions were strong.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Kings North.

GAMING: HAMMONDS PLAINS GAMING CTR.

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- NEIGHBOURHOOD INTEGRATION

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister responsible for Part II of the Gaming Control Act, VLTs. As the minister knows, a gaming centre is scheduled to open in a residential area of Hammonds Plains, and we have residents from that area in the gallery today. The residents are understandably concerned about the increased traffic and the effect a VLT centre will have on their neighbourhood.

What assurance can the minister give residents, such as Bruce Innes and Orrin Sangster, that the VLT centre will not change their neighbourhood?

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, just for the information of that member, the VLTs are under Part I of the Gaming Control Act.

The member asked this the other day in the House and, as he is aware, the Government of Nova Scotia entered into an agreement in 2011 with all First Nations, which is a binding and legal agreement which controls gaming in the province and on First Nations Bands.

As the member would also be aware, the province does not approve those. There is no approval process that is given by the province. The same problem has actually happened with the municipality where, because it is reserve land that was actually permitted by the federal Conservatives to be in that community recently, that it also doesn't have to abide by the zoning of the municipality. The location of that facility is ultimately a decision of the federal government when they made the decision to award reserve lands in that community.

MR. LOHR « » : Thank you for that answer, Mr. Minister. I appreciate the correction on Part I and Part II.

The residents of Hammonds Plains feel helpless and don't know where to turn. The Responsible Gaming Strategy of 2011 indicated that the provincial government would work proactively with both First Nations and with residents. Will the minister commit to meet with concerned citizens of Hammonds Plains and discuss this?

MR. YOUNGER « » : Yes.

MR. LOHR « » : Thank you, Mr. Minister, for that commitment and that is all.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

FIN.: CPP COVERAGE - P.E.I. PLAN

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HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, again my question through you is to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board. Today the Canada Pension Plan only applies to annual earnings below $50,000 and it replaces just one-quarter of a person's income in retirement, to a maximum of around $12,150 annually.

P.E.I.'s Liberal Minister of Finance understands that this is nowhere near enough income for middle-income earners to plan retirement around and he has come up with a plan. The P.E.I. plan would gradually increase coverage, up to approximately $100,000 annually, and replace 40 per cent of income.

Mr. Speaker, my question to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board, would she indicate if she is prepared to support, even in principle, P.E.I.'s approach?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, again I understand the importance of this question, but I think it's important for the House to know that this is an issue with a lot of different impacts. Certainly we want to talk with business, who'd have to pay their share of this employee benefit if it were to be increased. We have a lot of consultation to do, a lot of study to do and I'm not prepared today to give a position to the member opposite on this.

What I will say is that we're very well aware of the pension needs of Nova Scotians and the elements that have to be improved to get them to a proper retirement.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, Bill VanGorder, the Chair of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons, or CARP, wrote a letter to Jim Flaherty, the Premier, and the Minister of Finance on November 13^th; I will table a copy of that letter. Mr. VanGorder wrote, and I quote, "The choice is now up to you to decide and declare if and when there will be a change to improve the CPP."

My question for the minister is, what is your response to the Canadian Association of Retired Persons?

MS. WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I think it's important to note that I've had discussions with the Minister of Finance from Prince Edward Island and I reviewed his plan that's put forward as well. But it's important to know that these decisions have been underway on the federal and provincial level since 2009, that the plans and the proposals have changed, that there are objections by certain provinces that are being - I would say objections that the Minister of Finance from P.E.I. is trying to address and make changes. It's a very fluid discussion. There's a lot of negotiating and changing going on, and it doesn't require Nova Scotia to have a position today.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to table a paper called Strengthening the Canada Pension Plan: Take it to the public, in which the Caledon Institute of Social Policy correctly points out that the deliberations on reforming the CPP are happening behind closed government doors. So my final question to the minister is this: given that the matter of income security is of such importance for a growing number of Nova Scotians, shouldn't there be formal consultations with the public on enhancing the Canada Pension Plan?

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MS. WHALEN « » : Again, I would simply say that this is an issue that has been ongoing for years, that we will be part of that discussion, and that I have spoken to a number of the Finance Ministers from across the country, most notably P.E.I. and Ontario, who are in favour of changes. But we also have a meeting set up with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. We need to hear from their view as well, as I'm sure everyone in the House can appreciate.

Mr. Speaker, during their time as government, when the NDP had control of government, they did not confer with the retirees of Nova Scotia before taking away their indexing.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Hants West.

HEALTH & WELLNESS: DND ORs - USAGE

MR. CHUCK PORTER « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. The Stadacona Hospital is scheduled to close in March 2014. The military have offered to allow the government to use the operating rooms in this facility. The waiting list for surgical procedures in this province is growing daily, as we know, and some would consider this out of hand. This puts undue stress and hardships on families as they care for a loved one who may be suffering while waiting. My question is, has the minister been in contact with the Department of National Defence about the use of the Stadacona operating rooms?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I thank the Health Critic opposite for the question. To my knowledge, at this stage no negotiations or meetings have taken place in this regard.

MR. PORTER « » : As the minister knows, spending in health care is growing, and it will continue to do so as our population ages. In the past, the Auditor General has pointed out situations where the department has failed to recognize cost savings and ignored opportunities that could save millions of dollars for our health care system. This overhead at the facility at Stadacona has already long since been paid for, and there are military doctors there willing to work. Does the minister agree that this is worthy of consideration for the hundreds of Nova Scotians waiting for surgery?

MR. GLAVINE « » : As we take a look at reducing surgical wait times, in particular with orthopaedics, cataract surgery, and general surgery, all of the capacity in the province is being looked at. One of the reasons why we're changing the DHA structure is to allow for greater collaboration, for clinicians to practise in multiple facilities. This is a worthy idea that the member has brought forward.

[Page 744]

MR. PORTER « » : I appreciate the answer from the minister, and I'll go right to my question. Given that there is an opportunity, will the minister commit to working with the representatives of the Stadacona Hospital to open their operating rooms for Nova Scotians before that eventual closure in March of 2014?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, what I can commit to is gaining an understanding of what kind of a relationship and process is needed for Nova Scotians to deliver Nova Scotian positions, to deliver services within the context of a military base, a military operation. I'm sure there are provincial-federal requirements and we can certainly have a look at that.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Queens-Shelburne.

TIR: CROSSWALK SAFETY - AWARENESS

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. Winter is a treacherous time for drivers and people walking. Dark, snowy, foggy and wet weather makes it difficult to see properly. Since the beginning of November, there have already been half a dozen different instances involving people being struck in crosswalks. My question to the minister is, what action is this government taking to increase awareness about crosswalk safety in Nova Scotia?

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN » : Mr. Speaker, I do truly thank the member for his question. Every member of this House and many Nova Scotians are aware of what is happening with pedestrian traffic, in particular, and some of the things that are happening around sidewalk safety. In particular, the HRM has a traffic study committee and they are commissioning a report, looking at some of the factors involved in the collisions and the issues we are having with sidewalks. They are going to release that report in February and at that time we're going to engage with our municipal partners to see what the details are.

We're very interested in learning. We want to keep Nova Scotians safe too, so it is important for us to see what those recommendations are. At that time we'll take a look. There have been a number of instances where we have partnered with municipalities in the past to increase and enhance pedestrian safety. Obviously, we want to keep people safe. We're going to endeavour to do that. In any way we can be partners with the municipal units, we will do so in the interest of safety for Nova Scotians.

MR. BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for his response. Improved crosswalk safety means listening to all stakeholders involved, to ensure a comprehensive strategy is in place. My question to the minister is, what conversations has the minister had with community stakeholders about the issues of crosswalk safety since the first instance last week, and what recommendations if any did they make to the minister?

[Page 745]

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Thank you for the question. I met with the Road Safety Advisory Committee yesterday morning. Again, as a Nova Scotian, as an MLA and as someone who is concerned about the safety of our citizens, I wanted to understand where we help and what role we play. So, again, we've got department officials who are in constant contact with the municipal units, with private stakeholders, and there are some in particular in the HRM who have some very good ideas and have done some significant research on what ways we can improve safety for pedestrians and, of course, for drivers, as this is a shared responsibility in the sidewalks and on the roadway.

We are listening to any stakeholder and for me, as the minister, if there is someone who has suggestions and ideas on how we improve these things, I'm all ears. Again, it is the responsibility and the jurisdiction of the municipalities. However, we are going to work together, and specifically with this study in February, I think that creates a lot of dialogue for us to move forward and, again, where we can help, we certainly will.

MR. BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, crosswalk safety isn't a new issue but I think the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal would agree that there are always opportunities to find new and better ways of doing things. My final question to the minister is, what new initiatives is government examining to ensure crosswalk safety is at the top of the minds of all Nova Scotians?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, basically how this works is the Transportation Association of Canada creates a set of standards that are abided by all provinces and all municipal units. We take those recommendations. The idea is to standardize them, so whether you're in Nova Scotia, you're in B.C., you're in all points in between, there's a standardized set of rules, signage and those type of things. That is the information that we have.

Obviously, as a provincial government, we set those regulations and those laws and it's up to the municipalities to make adjustments on how they meet those requirements and all the municipal units in this province have done a very good job to meet those requirements.

Again to the member's points, those stakeholders who have a role in this serious issue for Nova Scotians and have points and perspectives that they want to share - we're listening. We want to make sure we do the best things for pedestrians. Again, I do want to remind all Nova Scotians that this is a shared responsibility. We have to be very careful on the streets. Just because you have the right-of-way, don't assume that you are safe to proceed. Make sure you are looking and you are aware of both sides of the road for traffic.

The biggest amount of collisions and problems that we have are with sidewalks that are at intersections of lights. So just when you get that beeping hand, it doesn't mean that you can bolt across. That has been the highest number, statistically, for incidents in this province.

[Page 746]

Those are the types of things we want to share. Sharing information is important, and I think that in February, some of that report will suggest we do more advertising and more marketing on the importance of road safety. If that's the recommendation from municipal units, we'll do just that. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clare-Digby.

HEALTH & WELLNESS: VILLA ACADIENNE - UPDATE

MR. GORDON WILSON » : Mr. Speaker, first I'd like to thank you very much for the privilege, and thank the House for the privilege, of being able to stand here and ask questions on behalf of the citizens of Clare-Digby.

Mr. Speaker, this question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. The Villa Acadienne nursing home has been slated for replacement for some time now, and the citizens of the community of Meteghan have watched as two nursing homes adjoining them in Digby and Yarmouth have been replaced. During my campaign, the Villa Acadienne was the number one question on the minds of the people of Clare for replacement.

Mr. Speaker, can the minister provide the House with a project update on the Villa Acadienne nursing home?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. This announcement, I believe, was first made under the Rodney MacDonald Government. It has gone through now over four years under the NDP Government. It is identified in the top 15 replacement bed facilities that we need to be working on.

I want to let the member know that it will be in the first group of replacement facilities that will be initiated by this government.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Kings North.

AGRIC.: STRAWBERRY GROWERS - AID PKG.

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Agriculture. Late last week, the Minister of Agriculture announced an aid package for strawberry growers in the amount of $2.3 million. The amount provided by the government is about half of what the industry requested.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to the province's strawberry industry that all strawberry growers eradicate the virus that damaged last year's crop. If the aid package provided by government is insufficient to do the job, will the minister provide more funding to make sure that the Nova Scotia strawberry crop is healthy and sustainable in the coming years?

[Page 747]

HON. KEITH COLWELL » : Thank you very much for my honourable colleague's question. It is a very important question to the agriculture industry in the province. We are presently in negotiations, having meetings with the Federation of Agriculture and the farmers are involved to see if, indeed, the funding is suitable for the situation that we've encountered.

MR. LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, large Nova Scotia strawberry growers have not seen any details about who will qualify and when the aid will be provided by the government. Farmers are planning now for next year's crop. When will the minister provide strawberry growers with details about the aid package and timelines when the aid will be delivered?

MR. COLWELL « » : I'd like to thank the honourable member again for the question. Actually, I met with the strawberry producers on Sunday. The application forms will soon be in their hands. They had an opportunity to review the information of how they would apply and have some input into that application process. We made some changes that would suit their situation better and that will be in their hands very shortly.

MR. LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for the answer. If the government aid package is insufficient, the temptation will be there for some struggling farmers to do nothing and hope for the best crop possible next year. That will put nearby strawberry farms in jeopardy, since the destructive viruses will continue to spread. What is the Department of Agriculture doing to ensure that the viruses that caused the farmers to plow under millions of dollars' worth of crop don't return next year?

MR. COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, that's a very important question and it's one that has been posed by the industry itself. Unfortunately, under the present laws and the regulations we have, I do not have the ability to order those fields plowed under. There are some other processes we are looking at to see if we can make that happen, and hopefully it will happen. As the member is probably well aware, if they leave the strawberry plants in the field, the yield would be so low on it that it doesn't make any difference anyway, whether they keep them or not. But they should be plowed under, and we're going to endeavour to do everything we can to make sure those are plowed under.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Chester-St. Margaret's.

SENIORS: DEPT. - BUDGET CUTS

[Page 748]

HON. DENISE PETERSON-RAFUSE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Seniors. The Liberals have promised a 1 per cent cut to almost every single government department, including the Department of Seniors. This is a small department that financially supports extremely important programs for our senior population. A $1 cut will negatively affect our Nova Scotia seniors in that department - any cuts will. My question to the minister, why is the minister cutting funding to the Department of Seniors when seniors need our support the most?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for a very, very important question. I can see already, since arriving in the Department of Health and Wellness, and Seniors, that the demand grows daily. Whether it's nursing home facilities, whether it's programs that have them active in the community - these are all very, very important areas.

At the present time, we're actually reviewing having the Department of Seniors become within the jurisdiction of the Department of Health and Wellness.

MS. PETERSON-RAFUSE « » : Mr. Speaker, thank you very much for that answer. But when I went door to door, I know many seniors were very confused about what programs were available. They were pleased to learn that the new Seniors Navigators Program could connect people who have information about where to turn. The new Seniors Navigators Program was scheduled to begin in 2014. Will the minister commit to implementing the Seniors Navigators Program?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, again, a very, very important part of the program delivery from the Department of Seniors, and it is one that I know, in the community that I represent, is very important to a significant number. I live in a part of Nova Scotia where already there are five communities that have 25 per cent of their population that are over 65. This is an important program. It will remain in place.

MS. PETERSON-RAFUSE « » : Mr. Speaker, knowing that the budget year ends in April, when will this consultation process begin?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I know that we will be dealing with the Senior Citizens' Secretariat, the Department of Seniors, and I know when I do the provincial tour around the restructuring of the DHAs, it'll be broad enough that many questions regarding health care delivery, and in particular what we will be doing for seniors in the coming decades, will be very much top of mind. And so, early in the new year, that will be part of the process in the DHA tour.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

NAT. RES.: PROTECTED LANDS - MORATORIUM

[Page 749]

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Environment. Last week, the Minister of Natural Resources told this House that he has "never been a proponent of reducing protected land targets." I will table that. My question for the Minister of Environment is, has his colleague, the Minister of Natural Resources, written any correspondence to the Department of Environment within the last 12 months calling for a moratorium on protected lands?

HON. RANDY DELOREY » : Mr. Speaker, since the question posed actually details correspondence from my colleague, the Minister of Natural Resources, I'd like to defer to him, since he would be the source of the correspondence in question.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, to the member's point, I sent a letter on behalf of constituents that felt that they were ignored during the NDP consultation process regarding protected lands. They had very specific concerns about accessing their camps and recreational grounds that they have used for generations. I brought those concerns to the floor of this Legislature, as any MLA would who is representing their people. I am proud of that, I will continue to do that on behalf of my members in my riding. (Applause)

And again for the clarification of the House, all Parties unanimously voted in favour of that 13 per cent target. This government remains committed to it.

MS. ZANN « » : Yes, I've read about the meeting that was held, and in fact I believe a lot of the residents were given misinformation which was corrected by one of the members of the department at the time. The Parks and Protected Areas Plan, which the province released in August 2013, was the result of 2,000 written submissions and input from more than 1,300 people at 17 public open house sessions held across this province. But in spite of this, earlier this week the Minister of Natural Resources said that his government will make sure the views of those asking for a moratorium on protected land will be considered moving forward, and I will table that, Mr. Speaker.

In April 2011, the Sou'Wester reported that the goal of the petition that the minister signed was a complete moratorium on protected land identified in 40 different areas in Digby, Shelburne, and Yarmouth County. Therefore Mr. Speaker, my question for the Minister of Environment, can he please confirm whether these protected lands identified in the final Parks and Protected Areas Plan in August 2013 are now actually being reconsidered by his department, as stated by the Minister of Natural Resources?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, just to clarify for the House, this government is going to ensure that all voices are included in any decision that we make when it comes to our protected lands because, Mr. Speaker « » :Interruption) And especially, Mr. Speaker, the voices of those who live next to those protected lands and who have used them forever.

This is a question around access to camps and recreational use. Our government remains committed to ensuring that Nova Scotians have access to our lands. I'm happy this question came up in the House because it identifies a clear difference between how the NDP approached this issue and how this government approaches this issue. The NDP sees Crown land as being the property of the government. Us, Mr. Speaker? We see our Crown land as being the property of the people of this province. (Applause)

[Page 750]

MS. ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for his answer although I did not ask him that question - it was for the Minister of Environment.

However, Mr. Speaker, I do want to say that when we first became government as the NDP in this province, the people of Nova Scotia owned only 2 per cent of their own land and we brought that up to 13 per cent - and I'm extremely proud of that. In fact, our NDP Government was lauded for our protected lands and conservation movements; we went from being last in this province to second in that area.

My third and final question for the honourable Minister of Environment is, can the Minister of Environment - if he is listening - could the Minister of Environment . . .

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Would the honourable member please retract that previous comment.

MS. ZANN « » : Well, he wasn't listening, but I will retract that comment.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Will the honourable member please proceed with her question.

MS. ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, our NDP Government was lauded by conservation groups across Canada for adding 14 new provincial parks to the final parks and recreation areas, which means that Nova Scotians have gone from owning only 2 per cent of the province to 13 per cent.

My question for the Minister of Environment is, can he please confirm unequivocally that at least 13 per cent of our province's land will be protected for future generations of Nova Scotia by the year 2015, as committed by our previous NDP Government?

MR. DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the member for her question - finally a question that is actually directed to my attention.

Before answering this specific question I'd like to make a couple of clarifications. First and foremost, the 12 per cent and 13 per cent that have been referred to do not refer to lands specifically owned, or any change in the ownership specifically to the Province of Nova Scotia. What those percentages refer to in the parks and protected lands are lands that are protected by the Province of Nova Scotia - it does not refer specifically to lands owned by the Province of Nova Scotia. So let's make that clear. (Applause)

[Page 751]

I would also like to clarify, as the Minister of Natural Resources stated earlier to a final point that was made in the preamble to the question, the fact that the decision to pursue an initiative to protect increased lands in the Province of Nova Scotia was not just an initiative of the former government, it was a decision that was unanimously passed by the House by all Parties in the Province of Nova Scotia. So let's get that clarified as well. (Applause)

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to answer the actual question that the member opposite raised. In fact, yes, this government, the Departments of Environment, Natural Resources, and all members of this government and I believe this House, still stand by the decision that was previously made, unanimously, which is to continue to pursue the parks and protected lands and pursue the initiatives to continue to protect the lands that have been identified - currently we're at about 9 or 9.5 per cent that have actually been protected.

There have been initiatives in place over the last year or so that have increased that amount of land identified. We're in the process, and continuing the process, to make the necessary adjustments in the designations of those lands. That is moving forward and we are moving forward on that initiative and it will be taking place - any suggestions that the government is not committed to it is off ground. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg.

TIR - MV MINER: REMOVAL - UPDATE

MR. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. (Interruptions) He looked lonely over there.

Mr. Speaker, during the last provincial election, and shortly thereafter, the Premier of the province made a commitment to the people of Main-à-Dieu that he would, indeed, have the MV Miner removed from the shores of Scatarie. As the member knows, and he was very active on the file as a member of the Opposition, that has been an issue in that community for some time. The Premier also made us aware that TIR would be the department responsible for this file. I would just like to know, could the minister share with us what he has done towards keeping the commitment of the Premier for the removal of the MV Miner from the shores of Scatarie?

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I truly do thank the member for that question. It's an important one for us on the Island and, of course, for all Nova Scotians. What we found - and I know that the member was also very active on that file - we travelled to Ottawa in November 2011 with the former Premier to discuss the MV Miner. At that point it was wrapped up in whose responsibility it was and, really, for two years it didn't move from that point. We made the commitment during the campaign as part of our platform. We will definitely fulfill that commitment without question.

[Page 752]

What I want to tell the member is - and he is right about it - it came under TIR, we had no idea what the range of costs were for removing the MV Miner. What we did right off the bat was crafted up a new RFP, which will be released early in the new year, in early 2014. We'll get that tender out to the competitive sector for that type of removal. We'll get the process rolling. Then we turn to our friends in Ottawa to talk about, number one, how we possibly cost share on that endeavour and, number two, how we change the shipping laws so that this never happens again. Nova Scotians can't be on the hook for these bills. So it is moving along, and I can assure the member, we will honour our commitment.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the minister for that answer and I know that he is committed to this file. However, it has dragged on for over two years, and even though the former NDP Premier made a similar commitment to remove the MV Miner, it's still there and this government now has to deal with it. As a matter of fact, in The ChronicleHerald on October 7, 2011, the Premier of the day said, "It is necessary for us to see this matter is dealt with in as expeditious a fashion as possible." I'll table that. If two years is quick, then we do understand why he's where he's at today.

Mr. Speaker, will the minister commit that this cleanup will take place regardless of federal involvement in the cleanup?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I do thank the member for that question as well. Basically the reason this is moving at the pace it is, is because of the weather. No one can attest to this more than the member opposite; Scatarie and the area around there in the Atlantic are very tough waters. This is a massive vessel that has been shifting around. It has been two years, which is far too long. So where we're at is basically we're on a timeline that has a lot to do with (a) the weather; and (b) the fact that we are still unsure at the present day of the condition of the vessel, how we remove it, and what the options are. We hear stories of asbestos and other contaminants that are out there.

We have to handle this properly and do it right. That's the key and that's the importance of this RFP. We get the tender out in the new year and then we start looking at it. Knock on wood, but I can't imagine that we wouldn't get at this right away. My goal, and our goal as a government, is to make sure the MV Miner is gone before the 2014 fishing season around the coast of Scatarie.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, again I want to thank the minister for that response because it is important that this cleanup does not take place during the actual lobster season because it would disturb the lobster season. I'm pleased to hear that the minister is aware of that and I know from meetings that we have both attended that he has listened quite intently to the people of Main-à-Dieu and surrounding area.

My final question to the minister is, will the minister commit to meeting with the community and outlining the details of the plan, once that plan has been put in place, so that they have an idea of what is going to take place in their community before the work actually starts?

[Page 753]

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, that is one of the elements in the equation, the upcoming fishing season. I think that if this timeline shifts into that season - I mean we're not that far from May - so if that were the case, we could maybe delay it until after that point.

I don't want to speculate on those things. Again, our priority and our focus right now is getting that done well before that time. Once the weather breaks and we can get out there and get at it and start removing the MV Miner, then that's what we'll do.

Mr. Speaker, the community group that's out there, there's a lot of committed people. They are outside of the political realm. They don't care what Party it is and what the politics are. They want this boat gone. That's why it's a commitment for us. We will consult the entire way with the Main-à-Dieu association, who have been leaders in this endeavour. I'd be happy to meet with the group any time, either before Christmas or in the new year, to tell them what I know. I prefer to do it after the RFP is released, so we know exactly what the details for the cleanup are, but I'll meet with them at any time. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley.

JUSTICE: N.S. HOME FOR COLORED CHILDREN -

INQUIRY TERMS OF REF.

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Justice. We all know that when children go through trauma, their lives can be affected for a very long time. The Premier joined the PC caucus some time ago in calling for an inquiry into the alleged historical abuse at the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children. The Premier said he hoped that the terms of reference for an inquiry would be set by the end of the year.

My question is, does the government intend to set the terms of reference for this inquiry by the end of the year?

HON. LENA DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, thank you very much to the member opposite. Indeed, this is a very important question, and it's a question that's important to all the residents of Nova Scotia. Specifically, the residents in question have gone through so much, and they do want to move on. As everyone knows, the court process still has not proceeded.

Yes, we are working on the terms of reference now, and we do plan to begin the inquiry as soon as we are able to do that. The idea is to have it done this Spring. Thank you.

[Page 754]

MR. HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, I do appreciate that answer - was the indication, and is, that the inquiry is to happen through the Spring. The Premier pointed out at one time that there are people who want to take part in this inquiry who live away. These men and women need to know what the time frame would be, so that they can adequately prepare to come back for that inquiry or make their voice be heard.

I guess the question is, when will a date be set for that inquiry?

MS. DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, as I said, this issue is an important issue, and it's one that is important for all of us here in this province. We are working on the terms of reference. Officials in my department are meeting with the lawyer for the residents, and we are in the process of having those terms established. Thank you.

MR. HARRISON « » : Well, I really don't have a supplementary question now. (Applause) Mr. Speaker, I'm very pleased that the inquiry will take place, and we will be awaiting future information. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Queens-Shelburne.

NAT. RES.: FIBRE SUPPLY/PROTECTED LANDS BALANCE

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. Last week when the minister was asked a direct question about how he was going to meet the fibre supply needs for those who work our forests, he gave an answer that was non-committal at best.

My question for the minister is, in the same vein as last week, how does he plan to balance the need for fibre to feed our economy with an adequate fibre supply while maintaining the province's protected targets?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question. Our department is working diligently to have a management plan ready for the new year, regarding the western lands. Our plan is to have allotments allocated early in the new year.

It is curious that this member is asking that question because previously, as a Minister of Environment, he was the lead on protecting land. One of the fibre challenges that we have in the Province of Nova Scotia, the Crown only owns about 30 per cent of the land in this province and upwards of 30 per cent of that land is now protected. I'd ask the member opposite, what is his preference - that we unprotect land to open up the fibre supply?

MR. BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, just a point - I'm the one who asks the questions, he's the one who should answer. The member for Yarmouth isn't the only Liberal who opposes land conservation efforts. On April 11^th the Liberal member for Guysborough- Eastern Shore-Tracadie called the 13 per cent land protection target a complete farce. He went on to say, "Whoever the heck the Crown is - I don't know if that's the Queen, I guess it's held by the province in trust for the Crown." I'll table that.

[Page 755]

My second question to the minister is, when he has a member of his own caucus who is obviously opposed to finding a balance between protection and supply, what is his strategy for dealing with his colleagues who don't think conserving our forests should be a priority?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I view any dialogue in this Legislature as just that, a dialogue between two parties. Regarding the protected lands question, of course there was some disagreement in the public. I know the goal of this Legislature was to accommodate, in a balanced way, all interests when it comes to those lands. I believe that the government has done its best to do that. We've settled on a 13 per cent target, that is a target that this government remains committed to, unequivocally, and if there is any debate about this issue we can talk about it further.

MR. BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, just last week the Ecology Action Centre praised our conservation efforts as a monumental achievement for natural conservation. I'll table that. My final question for the minister is, can Nova Scotians expect any changes to the current Parks and Protected Areas plan?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, this is very interesting. I just had a meeting with the member the other day who brought forth concerns from his members about access to protected lands and use of ATV vehicles. I'd like the member to make it clear, do you want access to those lands or not?

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Northside-Westmount.

HEALTH & WELLNESS: HOMECARE SERVICES - EXPENSES

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. If we want to ensure more seniors are able to stay in their homes, then the government needs to make that possible for struggling seniors. A constituent of mine, Ada Greene, receives home care twice a day and her husband, Cecil, struggles to keep the maintenance of their home on a fixed income. He cannot afford to pay to have his driveway shovelled but if it's not cleared, home care will not come to provide the services his wife needs. My question to the minister is, does the minister agree that this defeats the purpose of allowing the family to stay in their own homes?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for the question. I know it is through individual issues and concerns that we are able to give more support to the home care program. This year the budget had a significant increase in home care and it obviously has not expanded to look after those kinds of needs at the moment. I will certainly take the member's letter and concern of his constituent under my concern.

[Page 756]

MR. ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, our seniors have worked hard and contributed all their lives. They deserve better than this. Mr. Greene struggles to keep his family's head above water. Once a month he's forced to visit the local food bank to ensure there is food on the table for him and his wife. The reality is this is not a situation unique to my constituency; seniors all over the province are struggling. Many who wish to remain in their homes find it unaffordable and the system is unresponsive. My question to the minister is, what choice is the minister giving the seniors? Does he really expect to keep seniors in their homes when they are already struggling to afford it?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, it is an important question because we do have to keep more seniors in their homes and it is an expanded program that looks after what may seem to us as small needs that in fact are very significant and large needs when it comes to getting in the wood, cutting the lawn and, as the member opposite has brought up today, shovelling the snow to allow the caregivers to get to the house of a senior. It's one that I will take very seriously. At the moment we're reviewing the Continuing Care Program and all that that entails - and it does have a major emphasis and component around keeping seniors in their home.

MR. ORRELL « » : Mr. Minister, as we wait for a review of the Continuing Care Strategy, more families will be faced with impossible challenges. As winter approaches, more families like the Greenes will struggle to clear their driveways so their loved ones can receive proper home care.

My question to the minister is, is there anything we can do now to protect those families before the winter season pushes them into further hardship?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, sometimes I know in my riding I've been able to partner with a service club that had a list of individuals who were prepared to help seniors. I know we want to expand the program. At the present time we're living with a budget that's already in place and one that is very difficult to make adaptations to at this point in the year, but I will certainly take this case and what it means in the larger picture of providing a full array of services to help seniors stay in their home.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

ENERGY: SKILLED LBR. - REPLACEMENTS

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the honourable Minister of Energy.

Nova Scotia Power has started a request for proposals to replace approximately 250 employees. This includes thermal plant maintenance for power plants like Point Tupper, and line work along the South Shore and in the Valley. They plan to have discussions with companies that would do this work in the first quarter of 2014.

[Page 757]

My question is, does the minister agree with Nova Scotia Power that skilled labour can be found, at a lower price, to replace these workers?

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the member. I have already spoken with the IBEW and Nova Scotia Power about this issue. Quite frankly, I will not accept anything that reduces the service for Nova Scotians or the reliability for Nova Scotians in power generation, distribution, or safety in this province. I have made that absolutely clear to Nova Scotia Power - I will not let that happen.

I have had ongoing discussions; in fact, either myself or the deputy minister in my department has had pretty well weekly discussions with the IBEW on this matter and we're keeping in constant communication.

MR. MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, on the Big Harbour Island Road along the shores of the Bras d'Or Lakes, residents went without power for 67 hours last week - that was from Tuesday night at about 10:30 p.m. until Friday at a little bit after 5:00 p.m. This is a line service that could benefit from a more responsive outlay of resources by the company, but it is a service delivered by Nova Scotians who live in our communities - these are people who have made a commitment to living here and raising families and presumably have their neighbours' best interests at heart.

What specific assurances can the minister provide for people on the Big Harbour Island Road that they will receive better service if future line workers are brought in from out of province to respond to power outages?

MR. YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, it's a little bit of a strange question because there are no specific assurances that I would provide, because I just finished telling the member that I will not stand for anything which reduces the service to Nova Scotians and, moreover, I'm not convinced and I'm not sure how Nova Scotia Power feels that they would deliver many of those services without actually having people living here - it's pretty hard to operate a plant if the people who are operating the plant don't live here, for example.

Mr. Speaker, I made that clear in the first answer, and I think his question is probably better addressed in that case to the people who are putting out the RFP, because I've already told this member that I won't stand for anything that reduces the reliability of the service to Nova Scotians.

MR. MACMASTER « » : Well, Mr. Speaker, word on the street is that a B.C. company called Valard Power is interested in picking up this contract. Now Nova Scotia Power's actions may be retaliation to the government's commitment to charge the efficiency tax to Nova Scotia Power. If labour costs form a smaller percentage of overall power rate costs and these changes will not lead to lower power bills, what is the government doing to address this matter for those workers who are living with uncertainty as we head into the Christmas season?

[Page 758]

MR. YOUNGER « » : As I already told the member - and maybe he wrote his supplementary before he actually listened to the answer - the reality is we've been having weekly discussions with the union about this, and they've indicated they're actually very happy with the discussions they've been having with me and my department.

Moreover, Mr. Speaker, the fact that this member thinks that it is a retaliatory thing against this government's decision to remove a tax - that this Party decides to defend - on Nova Scotians is a bit funny since it shows how little they are paying attention to the actions of Nova Scotia Power, because this work actually began about - and the layoffs at Nova Scotia Power - actually began about nine months before we were even in power and the knowledge of the RFPs (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Minister of Energy has the floor.

MR. YOUNGER « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and moreover the RFPs were prepared before the election even began.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Just a housekeeping note - we will go till 11:41 a.m.

The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

HEALTH & WELLNESS: CECs - CONTINUATION

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : My question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness this afternoon.

According to the province's emergency care adviser, Dr. John Ross, Collaborative Emergency Centres, or CECs, are community-based and locally-managed solutions to the basic health care needs of Nova Scotians while maintaining ready access to 24-hour emergency care. Ross acknowledges the innovative core team of paramedics, nurses, and physicians, with the support from many others, makes best use of the available resources in communities across Nova Scotia.

So my question for the Minister of Health and Wellness is, will he commit today to continuing this innovative model of care here in Nova Scotia?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I thank the former Health and Wellness Minister for the question. CECs are proving to be valuable primary care extensions in our communities. There are very few that are providing urgent or emergency care. They are an important part of supplementing communities, especially ones that have shortages of physicians or nurse practitioners and our commitment, while a review will be going on, is to continue to support CECs.

[Page 759]

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : I think for us in our Party, and on this side, and I think Nova Scotians are cautious when they hear "review." We've heard many from the current government within health care and education that reviews will take place, and really reviews, Mr. Speaker, means a delay and that's why I find it extremely important that the Minister of Health and Wellness recognize the contributions of the change of model of care with Collaborative Emergency Centres. We have communities like Parrsboro, Springhill, Tatamagouche, Pugwash, Annapolis Royal, who currently now have available to their residents same-day or next-day appointments, which is extremely important.

So I hope that the seven more communities where it was recently announced that they would receive a CEC would not be caught up in what a review is from the current government, and I hope the minister will commit to that today.

MR. GLAVINE « » : The CECs are proven to be valuable extensions of primary health care. Each community has unique requests; we are looking at those requests and I think there will be some news in the not-too-distant future about CECs and communities that desire to have this particular model and extension of primary care.

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, thank you to the minister opposite. I'm glad to hear him using the term "valuable" and that CECs are valuable to Nova Scotians because I would agree with that, and I will support the minister and this government as long as they continue to recognize the value in ensuring that Nova Scotians have access to the care they need, especially in CECs.

We know over the past number of years, the current Premier criticized Collaborative Emergency Centres. So I'm glad to see that the Minister of Health and Wellness maybe doesn't hold that opinion of Collaborative Emergency Centres and I look forward . . .

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

OPPOSITION MEMBERS' BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable House Leader for the New Democratic Party.

HON. FRANK CORBETT » : Mr. Speaker, as I stated yesterday, the New Democratic Party will not be calling business today because of a very important meeting that you're holding in the Red Chamber beginning at 2:00 p.m. So it would be our position that we'll turn it over now to the Government House Leader to announce the time and business for tomorrow.

[Page 760]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, again I extend my thanks to the House Leader for the NDP for the co-operation that was shown for the hours today. For tomorrow's business, the House will meet from 12:00 noon until 10:00 p.m. During that time government business will include Committee of the Whole House on Bills, Bill Nos. 12, 14, 15, 19 and 20. As well, there will be Committee of the Whole House on Bills for Bill No. 13 - Ladies of the Sacred Heart at Halifax Act. Then we will proceed to Third Reading of Bill Nos. 1, 5, 7, 9, 10 and 17. And with the consent of the House, the bills that will be dealt with in Committee of the Whole House will possibly be dealt with for Third Reading as well tomorrow, and if time permits, we will conclude with Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne.

Mr. Speaker, with that I move that the House do now rise to meet again on Thursday from the hours of 12:00 noon until 10:00 p.m.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House now rise to meet again on Thursday, December 12^th between the hours of 12:00 noon and 10:00 p.m.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

We stand adjourned until 12:00 noon tomorrow.

[The House rose at 11:43 a.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 761]

RESOLUTION NO. 390

By: Hon. Jamie Baillie « » (Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party)

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

Whereas the Order of Nova Scotia is the highest honour of the Province of Nova Scotia that recognizes outstanding contributions or achievements by members of our community; and

Whereas through his frequent lectures to university business students and his great business success, Mr. Fred George has inspired future generations of Nova Scotians to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals; and

Whereas Mr. George has supported many causes, given generously of his time and knowledge, and has also been a long-time supporter of our veterans, members of the Canadian Forces and their families;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Fred George on receiving the Order of Nova Scotia and thank him for making our province a more caring place through his generous sharing of time and talents.

RESOLUTION NO. 391

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 Colan McCulloch of Kennetcook busily prepared all summer to play for Team Nova Scotia's baseball contingent at the Canada Summer Games in Sherbrooke, Quebec; and

Whereas Colan is the grandson of Windsor resident Helen Romans who showed up at every game possible to cheer her grandson on; and

Whereas Colan is 16 years old and has played both shortstop and second base, positions he described as challenging but a lot of fun;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Colan and his teammates for a superior effort in the 2013 Canada Summer Games and congratulate his grandmother Helen Romans for her loyal support of Colan's baseball accomplishments.

[Page 762]

RESOLUTION NO. 392

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 Alvin Harvey recently retired and was recognized by the Town of Windsor for his 22 years of service as a Public Works employee; and

Whereas the job of a Public Works employee requires someone who has many skills, including being able to brave the bitter cold and wind and snow to ensure sidewalks and streets are safe for the general public each winter; and

Whereas Alvin, a resident of Ardoise, was described at his retirement ceremony by Mayor Paul Beazley as a dedicated and hard worker and someone who could be counted on for keeping "Big Bertha", better known as the town's large snow blower, on the road well beyond its life expectancy;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly wish Alvin Harvey the very best with his retirement and thank him for his many years of dedicated service to the Town of Windsor's Public Works Division.

RESOLUTION NO. 393

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 16-year-old Avonview High School student Andrew Maynard of Windsor is turning a number of heads with his musical talent and for his vast collection of guitars; and

Whereas Maynard is especially adept at playing the banjo, but has no difficulty playing other instruments such as guitar, bass, mandolin, trumpet and stand-up bass; and

Whereas Andrew presently has a collection of some 40 instruments, including 26 guitars, and he thoroughly enjoyed playing at the Eastern Canadian Bluegrass Music Awards Show in Truro in October;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly commend Andrew Maynard for his musical talents and love of music and wish him every future success with whatever instrument he picks up and continues to play.

[Page 763]

RESOLUTION NO. 394

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Attendu que Vernon d'Eon, un homme d'affaires et entrepreneur de Pubnico-Ouest-le-centre, était le destinataire d'un diplôme honorifique de l'Université Sainte-Anne, le 19 juin, 2013; et

Attendu que Vernon d'Eon a commencé sa carrière à un jeune âge comme pêcheur de homard mais avec la diminution des prises, il a tourné son attention vers la fabrication des piquets de homard et en 1975 a formé son entreprise Vernon d'Eon Lobster Plugs Limited; et

Attendu que Vernon d'Eon Lobster Plugs a depuis élargi pour inclure sept magasins dans toute la Nouvelle-Écosse, et à l'?le-du-Prince-Édouard avec la vente d'une grande variété de produits de la pêche et de vêtements ainsi que le restaurant Dennis Point Café à Pubnico-Ouest-le-bas, avec 65 employés à temps plein;

Par conséquent, qu'il soit résolu que tous les membres de cette Assemblée félicite Vernon d'Eon en recevant son diplôme honorifique, le remercier pour son leadership et vision tout au long de sa carrière et lui souhaitons beaucoup de succès dans l'avenir.

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

Whereas Vernon d'Eon, a well-known businessman and entrepreneur from Middle West Pubnico was the recipient of an honorary degree from Université Sainte-Anne on June 19, 2013; and

Whereas Vernon d'Eon began his career at a young age as a lobster fisherman, but with declining catches turned his attention to fabricating lobster pegs and in 1975 formed his company Vernon d'Eon Lobster Plugs Ltd.; and

Whereas Vernon d'Eon Lobster Plugs has since expanded to seven stores throughout Nova Scotia and one in P.E.I., selling a large variety of fishing supplies and clothing, as well as a restaurant, Dennis Point Café in Lower West Pubnico, employing 65 full-time employees;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Vernon d'Eon on receiving his honorary degree, thank him for his leadership and vision throughout his career and wish him continued success in the future.

[Page 764]

RESOLUTION NO. 395

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas birthdays are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of an individual; and

Whereas on October 25, 2013, Julie Surette of Tusket, formerly of Surette's Island, celebrated her 85^th birthday; and

Whereas to have reached 85 years of age and continue to be active and share all the memories gathered over your lifetime with your loved ones is a wonderful reason to celebrate;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Julie Surette on reaching this milestone in her life and wish her many more happy birthdays and continued good health.

RESOLUTION NO. 396

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas birthdays are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of an individual; and

Whereas on November 29, 2013, Lucie Doucette of Wedgeport celebrated her 100^th birthday; and

Whereas to have reached 100 years of age and continue to be active and share all the memories gathered over your lifetime with your loved ones is a wonderful reason to celebrate;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lucie Doucette on reaching this milestone in her life and wish her many more happy birthdays and continued good health.

[Page 765]

RESOLUTION NO. 397

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas birthdays are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of an individual; and

Whereas on August 25, 2013, Regina Doucette, resident of Villa St. Joseph du Lac, Yarmouth, and formerly of Hubbard's Point, celebrated her 104^th birthday; and

Whereas to have reached 104 years of age and continue to be active and share all the memories gathered over your lifetime with your loved ones is a wonderful reason to celebrate;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Regina Doucette on reaching this milestone in her life and wish her many more happy birthdays and continued good health.

RESOLUTION NO. 398

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas birthdays are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of an individual; and

Whereas on October 17, 2013, Thérèse Bourque of Wedgeport celebrated her 100^th birthday; and

Whereas to have reached 100 years of age and continue to be active and share all the memories gathered over your lifetime with your loved ones is a wonderful reason to celebrate;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Thérèse Bourque on reaching this milestone in her life and wish her many more happy birthdays and continued good health.

[Page 766]

RESOLUTION NO. 399

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas birthdays are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of an individual; and

Whereas on October 4, 2013, Wilbert Surette of Lower West Pubnico celebrated his 90^th birthday; and

Whereas to have reached 90 years of age and continue to be active and share all the memories gathered over your lifetime with your loved ones is a wonderful reason to celebrate;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Wilbert Surette on reaching this milestone in his life and wish him many more happy birthdays and continued good health.

RESOLUTION NO. 400

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on November 16, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Margaret and Sheldon d'Entremont of West Pubnico celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Margaret and Sheldon d'Entremont on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 401

[Page 767]

By: Hon. Christopner d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on August 3, 2013 a very special occasion took place when Sharon and Medric Landry of Amirault's Hill celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sharon and Medric Landry on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 402

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on August 7, 2013 a very special occasion took place when Marilyn and Patrick LeBlanc of Wedgeport celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Marilyn and Patrick LeBlanc on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 403

[Page 768]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on September 27, 2013 a very special occasion took place when Muriel and Ernest Doucette of Amirault's Hill celebrated their 65^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Muriel and Ernest Doucette on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 404

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on November 4, 2013 a very special occasion took place when Carol and Franklyn Moulaison of Amirault's Hill celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Carol and Franklyn Moulaison on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 405

[Page 769]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on August 19, 2013 a very special occasion took place when Hayden and Pauline Landry of Hubbard's Point celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Hayden and Pauline Landry on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 406

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas anniversaries are an occasion for family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of two individuals united as one; and

Whereas it was once said that a marriage anniversary is the celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity but the order varies for any given year; and

Whereas on October 12, 2013 a very special occasion took place when Isabelle and Chester Doucette of Quinan celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Isabelle and Chester Doucette on this remarkable milestone in their life together and wish them many more happy years.

RESOLUTION NO. 407

[Page 770]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on July 14, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Tiffany and Devin Conrad welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tiffany and Devin Conrad on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 408

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on July 19, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Renee Penney and Chad Hallett welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Renee and Chad on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 409

[Page 771]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on June 28, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Maggie Watt and Darren Stuart welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Maggie and Darren on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 410

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 3, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Lisa d'Entremont and Kevin d'Eon welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lisa and Kevin on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 411

[Page 772]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on June 21, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Leah and Tom Muise welcomed their son Spencer into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Leah and Tom on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 412

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 17, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Laura Doucet and John Fall welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Laura and John on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 413

[Page 773]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on June 13, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Jessica Harris and Ivan Nickerson welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jessica and Ivan on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 414

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 21, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Heidi Jenkins and Cliff d'Eon welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Heidi and Cliff on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 415

[Page 774]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on September 1, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Heidi and Chris Ross welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Heidi and Chris on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 416

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on September 6, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Darlene Surette and David Vaux welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Darlene and David on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 417

[Page 775]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 30, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Danielle Francis and Tyson Blades welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Danielle and Tyson on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 418

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 31, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Brandi-Lee and Nicholas Penney welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brandi-Lee and Nicholas on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 419

[Page 776]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 9, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Bobbi Ann and Scott Markle welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bobbi Ann and Scott on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 420

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on September 1, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Katlyn Miller and Joshua Goodwin welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Katlyn and Joshua on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 421

[Page 777]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on June 3, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Heidi Nickerson and Dwayne MacKay welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Heidi and Dwayne? on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 422

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 26, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Shannon Jones and Trevor Malone welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate? Shannon and Trevor on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 423

[Page 778]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on September 2, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Shana Newell and Steve Quinlan welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Shana and Steve? on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 424

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 9, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Sarah d'Entremont and Jordan Smith welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sarah and Jordan? on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 425

[Page 779]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on July 18, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Samantha and Robert Nickerson welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Samantha and Robert on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 426

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 9, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Michele and Mark Bain welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Michele and Mark on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 427

[Page 780]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on July 26, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Lyndsey and Adam Kenney welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lyndsey and Adam on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 428

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 24, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Larissa Newell and Elijah Lee welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Larissa and Elijah on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 429

[Page 781]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 1, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Kelli and Grant Conrad welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kelli and Grant on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 430

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 4, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Hailey Williams and Jesse Hopkins welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Hailey and Jesse on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 431

[Page 782]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 30, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Gloria Marginson and Jamie Doucette welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Gloria and Jamie on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 432

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on September 6, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Della and Dwayne Nickerson welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Della and Dwayne on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 433

[Page 783]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 12, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Colette and Allan Doucette welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Colette and Allan on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 434

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 19, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Cassandra and Martial d'Entremont welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Cassandra and Martial on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 435

[Page 784]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on June 14, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Charlene and Stuart Nickerson welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Charlene and Stuart on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 436

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on July 15, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Ashley Doucette and Justin Hubbard welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ashley and Justin on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 437

[Page 785]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 15, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Ashley Hill and Tom Ross welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ashley and Tom on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 438

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on October 18, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Amelia Smith and Graham Nickerson welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Amelia and Graham on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 439

[Page 786]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on August 16, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Amanda Nickerson and Billy Joe Sears welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Amanda and Billy Joe on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 440

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on July 17, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Amanda MacDonald and Lorne Pace welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Amanda and Lorne on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 441

[Page 787]

By: Hon. Christopher d'Entremont « » (Argyle-Barrington)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is a momentous event and marks the beginning of a very satisfying journey down a long road, where the rewards far outnumber the challenges; and

Whereas "A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities," as quoted by author Eda J. LeShan; and

Whereas on November 15, 2013, a very special occasion took place when Jessica Trenholm and Michael Cameron welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jessica and Michael on this miraculous event in their lives, and wish them many happy years as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 442

By: Hon. Andrew Younger « » (Energy)

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

Whereas Darren Fisher was elected Halifax Regional Councillor for District 6, East Dartmouth - The Lakes in September 2009; and

Whereas Councillor Fisher was re-elected in October 2012 as councillor for the newly re-named District 6, Harbourview-Burnside-Dartmouth East; and

Whereas on November 9, 2013 Councillor Fisher was elected by Halifax Regional Council as Deputy Mayor for a one-year term;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Deputy Mayor Darren Fisher on his new role and wish him all the best for the coming year.

RESOLUTION NO. 443

[Page 788]

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance)

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

Whereas local literature is an essential element of what makes up the rich and dynamic culture of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Colleen Anthony of Clayton Park West has caught the attention and touched the hearts of many with her widely-known, award-winning blog, Curtains are Open, through which she shares reflections on her personal experiences and life lessons; and

Whereas Colleen Anthony has achieved a wonderful accomplishment in the publication of her first book, Full Speed Ahead, a compilation of 82 excerpts from her ever-popular blog;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Colleen Anthony on the publication of her first literary work and wish her every success in all her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 444

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance)

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

Whereas in June 2013, Amanda Dean's professionalism and talent were recognized with her appointment as Atlantic Vice-President of the Insurance Bureau of Canada; and

Whereas Ms. Dean's distinguished background in communications and public relations made her a leader in both the public and private sectors and took her to the Insurance Bureau in 2006, where she served in several different roles leading to her recent promotion; and

Whereas in her position as vice-president, Ms. Dean oversees all government relations in Atlantic Canada, specifically representing the positions of the property and casualty insurance industry to government officials;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Amanda Dean on her appointment and join me in extending our appreciation for the tremendous work she does on behalf of her clients and in partnership with government.

[Page 789]

RESOLUTION NO. 445

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance)

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

Whereas on November 6, 2013, the Canadian Progress Club of Halifax Cornwallis held its 23^rd Annual Progress Women of Excellence Awards Dinner at the World Trade and Convention Centre; and

Whereas 19 inspirational women were honoured for their exceptional contributions to their professions and their ability to influence, motivate, and inspire others; and

Whereas Dr. Ramona Lumpkin was recognized at the event in the Research and Education category for the impact she has made as president of Mount Saint Vincent University and her contribution to the university community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the great contribution that Dr. Ramona Lumpkin has made to our province, congratulate her on receiving this prestigious award, and wish her continued success in all her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 446

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance)

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

Whereas Janet McKeough has served the homebuyers of the Halifax area as a mortgage broker for 19 years and has earned the trust and respect of her clients through superior customer service and her understanding of the many needs of homebuyers; and

Whereas Janet further contributes to the profession in her role as president of the Mortgage Brokers Association of Atlantic Canada; and

Whereas Janet was rightfully distinguished Canada-wide in a recent article in the Canadian Mortgage Professionals magazine, entitled "10 Most Influential Women";

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Janet McKeough for her enormous contribution to her field in Nova Scotia and wish her the best of luck as she continues to set the bar for mortgage brokers across the province.

[Page 790]

RESOLUTION NO. 447

By: Hon. Diane Whalen (Minister of Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the promotion of positive aging is essential to maintaining the happiness and fulfillment of Nova Scotians as they grow older; and

Whereas the Mother Pluckers Music and Hockey Society are leaders in positive aging through staying active and sharing their musical talent with seniors as well as young people; and

Whereas Corinne Boudreau, a resident of Clayton Park West, was the distinguished recipient of a Haliward as a salute to her work with this exciting and dynamic society;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly applaud Corinne Boudreau for her tremendous work with the Mother Pluckers, congratulate her on receiving a prestigious Haliward, and offer best wishes to the Mother Pluckers as they continue to bring joy to many and be leaders in the community.

RESOLUTION 448

By: Hon. Diane Whalen (Minister of Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia takes great pride in the successes of its young professionals; and

Whereas Scott Noddin of Halifax has had tremendous success as a chartered accountant for Collins Barrows and received his letters in the shortest period possible because of his tremendous dedication and knowledge; and

Whereas Saint Mary's University recognized his exceptional talent in rewarding him the distinguished Young Alumni Award for 2013 for his professionalism and volunteerism;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Scott Noddin on his award and wish him the very best as one of Nova Scotia's most promising accounting professionals.

[Page 791]

RESOLUTION NO. 449

By: Hon. Diane Whalen (Minister of Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas Ted Doane, executive director of Internal Audit for the Province of Nova Scotia, is one of five chartered accountants in our province who were honoured with the prestigious FCA designation; and

Whereas this designation is the Institute of Chartered Accountant's highest honour and is requiring CAs to serve a minimum of 15 years in the profession while remaining in good standing and making exemplary contributions to the field or their community; and

Whereas Mr. Doane received his CA in 1991, and in addition to his work for the province, he has actively supported many professional associations, most notably serving as president for the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Nova Scotia and recently sitting on the steering committee for merging the accounting professions;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Ted Doane on receiving this well-deserved honour and join me in extending our most sincere appreciation for his professional commitment and contribution to the Province of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 450

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Minister of Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas on December 6, 2013, the student government of Park West School in Clayton Park showed tremendous creativity in organizing a Christmas gift sale to raise funds for the community; and

Whereas the determination of the organizers and the warm hearts of the Park West School community made the event an outstanding success, raising a one-day total of over $725; and

Whereas the majority of the money will go towards buying gifts and turkeys for the less fortunate, with the rest being reinvested into Park West School and the community of Clayton Park;

[Page 792]

Therefore be it resolved that the House thank the student government team and the Park West School community for bringing joy and comfort to many and join with me in wishing everyone in Clayton Park a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

RESOLUTION NO. 451

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Amira Kadray, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Amira Kadray on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 452

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

[Page 793]

Whereas Austeja Galinyte, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Austeja Galinyte on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 453

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Liam Rappoldt, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Liam Rappoldt on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 454

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

[Page 794]

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Seokho Lim, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Seokho Lim on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 455

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Mohini Bhade, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mohini Bhade on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 456

[Page 795]

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Brianna O'Malley, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brianna O'Malley on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 457

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Keelan O'Malley, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Keelan O'Malley on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.

[Page 796]

RESOLUTION NO. 458

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was introduced to Canada in 1963 and is currently present in more than 120 countries; and

Whereas the award encourages young people to become active in their communities and challenges them to hone a skill and embark on an adventurous journey; and

Whereas Angela Tsai, a student at Halifax West High School, successfully completed the rigorous requirements and was awarded the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony on November 25, 2013, at Halifax West High School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Angela Tsai on receiving this prestigious award, and offer best wishes for continued success as a leader in the community.