[Page 2237]

HALIFAX, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

Sixty-second General Assembly

Second Session

9:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Ms. Margaret Miller

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition for the repaving of the North Wallace Road, from Route 6 easterly to a distance of 5.8 kilometres. The operative clause is as follows:

"The condition of the North Wallace road in Cumberland County is said to be the worst in this northern district. It has been patched beyond repair. Vehicles routinely travelling this road are getting damaged, as is the snow plow. The agricultural and forestry sectors with heavy weight vehicles routinely use this road.

We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Nova Scotia and the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal to ensure this road is rebuilt and repaved by 2015."

Mr. Speaker, this petition bears 753 signatures, and I have affixed my signature as well.

[Page 2238]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, in accordance with the Nova Scotia Teachers College Foundation Act, Section 11(2), I rise to table the 2014 Annual Report of the Nova Scotia Teachers College Foundation.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of the Public Service Commission.

HON. LABI KOUSOULIS « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table the Government of Nova Scotia's employment equity report for 2013-14.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The report is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 67 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 14 of the Acts of 1993. The Tobacco Access Act. (Hon. David Wilson)

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

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

MACKEEN, KIM & ERICA - INTERPROV. EQUESTRIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, mother and daughter Kim and Erica MacKeen from Tatamagouche-Colchester North represented the province at the Interprovincial Equestrian Championships on October 3^rd in Blainville, Quebec. Kim, an endurance rider for many years, gradually became more involved with dressage; 13-year old Erica, who began riding at age 5, was first interested in jumping but gradually she turned to dressage, like her mother.

[Page 2239]

Dressage is an intricate equestrian sport which unifies the bond between horse and rider and is also known as horse ballet. Kim placed eighth in her run at the championship while Erica, the youngest competitor in dressage, finished 10^th. The chance to represent the province at the Interprovincial Equestrian Championships, especially as the first mother and daughter team, was both a unique and gratifying experience for the MacKeens.

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

RCL BR. 155 (WEDGEPORT): DEDICATION - THANK

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 155 in Wedgeport will be busy in the days ahead, up to and including Remembrance Day, participating in and conducting services to honour and remember fallen comrades and veterans of all wars.

Ceremonies will take place in local schools, churches and Nakile Home for Special Care. They have also been invited to services of two Yarmouth schools, Veterans Place, and Yarmouth Wesleyan Church as time permits. They conduct the ceremonies at the Tusket cenotaph, followed by a ceremony at Saint Michael's Church in Wedgeport, and host a banquet at the Legion hall.

They work tirelessly in the community promoting their branch and its members. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their dedication.

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

FIREWOOD - USAGE

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : Firewood is the most accessible and affordable renewable energy resource for home heating in much of North America. Its use can help us to reduce greenhouse gas emissions because its net carbon dioxide is far below all other fuels. It provides heating security during electrical power failures. Wood and firewood that is cut and used locally means money does not leave the community to pay for oil and gas. To be continued, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

HEADS UP, HALIFAX! CAMPAIGN

[Page 2240]

MR. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak of the Heads Up, Halifax! campaign. November 5^th was the Crosswalk Safety Awareness Day in Halifax and volunteers handed out literature at many crosswalks throughout the city. This kicked off HRM's Heads Up, Halifax! campaign to educate people about the importance of crosswalk safety. On September 6^th an elderly woman was struck in the crosswalk at Williams Lake Road and Herring Cove Road and died from her injuries. Just this week there was another serious pedestrian-vehicle accident on the corner of Dentith Road and Herring Cove Road.

In fact, there have been 151 pedestrian-vehicle injuries in Halifax from January to September 2014. This is up 70 per cent over the same period from last year. The majority of these accidents have occurred in crosswalks. I applaud HRM for introducing their Heads Up, Halifax! campaign in response to this ever-increasing problem in our city - remember, inattention can be fatal; heads up, Halifax. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou Centre.

STALLARD, DOUG: SERV. - THANK

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, as Remembrance Day draws close once again, I would like to take this time to pay tribute to one of our World War II veterans, Mr. Doug Stallard. Doug was born on February 14, 1922, in New Glasgow where he continues to live. Doug enlisted in the Army and was transferred to the Air Force in 1940. He was trained in Manitoba and Saskatchewan before being deployed overseas in 1941. He was involved in the fighting until 1945 when he was discharged. Like so many of the veterans from his era, he is incredibly humble and believes he did what he needed to do during those years.

Mr. Stallard continues to be a vital part of our community and we are very proud to call him one of our own. I look forward to seeing Doug out at one of the many Remembrance Day services in our area next week and take this time today to sincerely thank him for his service. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

BLACK EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, the Black Educators Association of Nova Scotia is celebrating their 45^th Anniversary this year. They were founded in 1969 to assist African Nova Scotian communities develop strategies toward an equitable education system. The Black Educators Association of Nova Scotia has been involved in the establishment and the development of many programs and projects including the bursary fund, math camp, and adult learning programs. On behalf of the House of Assembly, I would like to congratulate the Black Educators Association of Nova Scotia on reaching this milestone and express our gratitude for the work the association has done to ensure access to quality education for African Nova Scotian learners. Thank you.

[Page 2241]

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

FRIENDS OF THE NORTHSIDE GENERAL

MS. PAM EYKING « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the concerns of community members and health care workers as changes in our health care system and services are being made. I understand that decisions need to be made around how our health care dollars can be spent more effectively. These decisions will impact how health care is delivered and managed. Often in rural ridings such as my own, people see these changes as detrimental to small hospitals and rural services. ER closures; doctor, nurse, and tech shortages and recruitment challenges; change in lab services; and access to care are some of the major concerns for my constituents.

Community groups, with their insights into community dynamics, challenges, and strengths need to be included in the decision-making process around short-term and long-term health care plans because ultimately it is the community that will be impacted. I'm pleased that this government will engage in discussions and consultation with community groups such as the Friends of the Northside General, to work toward health care solutions that work for communities. Thank you.

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

REMEMBRANCE DAY - SCH. VISITS

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : With Remembrance Day coming up, I want to acknowledge the work that the schools in Brookfield do to prepare. The teachers and students have a special time set every year to recognize those who served and protected us in the Armed Services. I have been part of these presentations for years and I'm amazed at the quality of these services. They research particular battles; they research particular veterans in the area, select one or two and give a presentation on them. The school trips every year are geared to areas in Europe where Canadian servicemen fought and died. I'm looking forward to this year's time with the schools on Monday as they remember their history and are thankful for what has been given to them.

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

RCL BR. 9 (WINDSOR): WORK - COMMEND

MR. CHUCK PORTER « » : I rise today to commend members of Branch 9 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Windsor for the great work they are doing again this year, attending all the local schools in my constituency, performing the act of remembrance in an effort to instill in the young people the reason to remember those who have fallen in service of their country. Also, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all those men and women serving at home and around the world today in our Canadian military. Thank you very much.

[Page 2242]

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

BRUNSWICK STREET MISSION

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, as a young girl, my family made regular donations of gently-used, warm clothing for those who needed it, to the Brunswick Street Mission. The Brunswick Street Mission is an outreach program of Brunswick Street United Church here in Halifax. It seeks to inspire a better quality of life through a ministry of care that addresses physical, emotional, practical and spiritual needs to those experiencing poverty.

In my adult years, I still find myself making regular trips to the mission, like I did yesterday, to drop off clothing. The mission has operated a clothing bank - just one of the many programs it runs - for at least 40 years. It is one of the last organizations in the area that does not sell donated items, giving each item as freely as it was given to them. I feel that this time of year is a good time to think about the mission, to think about those who need warm clothes, or a warm meal, as the winter approaches. Like the people it supports, the mission also needs help and if you're fortunate enough to be able, I ask that you consider the Brunswick Street Mission. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

HOLLAND: CDN. LIBERATION - GRATITUDE

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Remembrance Day holds special significance for my family. My parents both lived through World War II in Holland as young children. To say that the liberation of Holland by Canadian soldiers meant something to them would be an understatement. Even in their early 80s, I still hear new recollections of the events of the war. My mother's family suffered through three months of Canadian artillery shelling late in 1944 as the Canadian army fought to liberate the island they lived on, to secure access to the Port of Antwerp. Recently, I heard of the first Canadian soldier they met. He was a young man covered head to toe in mud who stood up out of a ditch. Her father immediately went up to shake his hand. That winter they had a Canadian soldier living near them who shared food with her family. Our family is grateful beyond words for the sacrifice of Canada to liberate Holland. (Applause)

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

12 WING SHEARWATER - PRE-REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY

[Page 2243]

MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak to you today about a special event that happened in my riding last weekend. On Sunday, October 22^nd, I attended a pre-Remembrance Day ceremony at 12 Wing, Shearwater, paying respects to our Canadian veterans. It was very touching, and a memorial event as the Stadacona Band, along with the pipe and drum band, performed beautifully during the ceremony. It was attended by personnel from 12 Wing, along with distinguished members from our local Royal Canadian Legion, another veterans' association.

It was an honour and a privilege for me to meet one of the veterans from World War II and to have the opportunity to speak to him about his experience. This gathering provided an opportunity for our local veterans to socialize with serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and special guests. I would like to take the opportunity to thank Colonel Bourgon, Wing Commander, for the invitation to have me join her in such a prestigious ceremony. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

REMEMBRANCE DAY: OBSERVANCE - MEANING

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : The 11^th hour of the 11^th month of the 11^th day; we mark this moment in time to recall the end of hostilities of World War I on that date in 1918 and of course now, as is tradition, we also commemorate those who served and died in all military conflicts since World War I, but we also remember the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country in times of war and conflict, and in peace.

We observe this date so that we may come to understand and appreciate what those who have served Canada stand for and what they have sacrificed for our country and our freedom. May we accept that freedom is not free, nor does it come without risk.

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

TRI COUNTY FORD - ANNIV. (80^TH)

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On October 18^th Tri County Ford located in Tatamagouche, Colchester North, celebrated 80 years of business on the North Shore. James MacKeen started the business in 1934 operating from his home and began a long and happy relationship with the Ford Motor Company.

He built the original dealership in 1946 and later sold the business to his son-in-law, Mervin, and his business partner, Ron Creighton. Ron bought Mervin's share of the company in 1990 and in 1995 built the new dealership on the current property. James MacKeen's son, Eric, is the general manager, and over the years the dealership has won numerous awards for customer service and sales based largely on the can-do attitude of the dedicated staff. An important part of the economy of the North Shore, Tri County is also well known for its support in community events.

[Page 2244]

I was pleased to have the honour of cutting the ribbon of the new building front at the celebration on October 18^th as they celebrated that 80^th Anniversary of the dealership.

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

REMEMBRANCE DAY: CURRENT DAY SERV. MEMBERS - REMEMBER

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, on November 11^th this year, I will have the honour of laying a government wreath at Legions in my constituency. Time and things change, but what our veterans did to give us freedom will live on forever. We must also remember our current-day service members as they continue to fight for our freedom.

As we gather on Remembrance Day our thoughts and our prayers go out to our veterans, our current members of the service, their families, and those in our communities who serve to honour them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Portland Valley.

BORDEN, WALTER MARVEN - ORDER OF N.S.

HON. TONY INCE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about an accomplished actor, poet, playwright, and community leader, Walter Marven Borden of New Glasgow.

Congratulations to Mr. Borden on being selected as a 2014 recipient of the Order of Nova Scotia. Mr. Borden's tireless efforts to break barriers and promote inclusion culminated in the establishment of an interracial teen drop-in centre in the 1960s called the Kwaacha House.

Also, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to speak about a dedicated educator, social worker, Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard, of East Preston, who also joins the Order of Nova Scotia. Dr. Bernard's commitment to break down racial and social boundaries is evident throughout her extensive career. Dr. Bernard's work has proven to be invaluable to all in the field of social work.

I congratulate both and thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

MACLENNAN, HUGH "RORY ARCHIE" ARCHIBALD

[Page 2245]

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, Hugh "Rory Archie" Archibald MacLennan, of Dunvegan, enlisted with the North Nova Scotia Highlanders and saw action in Belgium, Holland, and Germany in the Second World War.

In 1977 he received a visitor from his war days. Ferdinand DeWilde, the Consulate General of Belgium to Canada, remembered Hughie from the time they spent together in Amsterdam. DeWilde was just a teenager at the time, but was impacted by the friendship he shared with Hughie and always remembered the name Hugh MacLennan of Dunvegan, Nova Scotia. So, in 1977, they were reunited.

Hughie was like many veterans, they returned to their families and the lives they had left before the war began, working in fields, in the factories, on the oceans - Hughie raised a large family and made his living as carpenter and a snowplow operator. This year, he passed away. May we remember him and all who served our country in the Second World War.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

DART GALLERY - THE COAST'S BEST GALLERY

MR. ALLAN ROWE « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Halifax's weekly The Coast, of course as you know, releases an annual "best of readers' picks" on various categories across our municipalities, businesses, our cultural and political sectors. Mr. Speaker, I am so pleased that Dartmouth is so well represented in this year's Best of polls. I'm very proud of the Dart Gallery in particular, which after just one year in business on Portland Street has won gold for The Coast's Best Gallery across all of Halifax's galleries.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate the Alderney Gate Public Library, also in Dartmouth South, for winning bronze for Best Library, and the Dartmouth Carousel for winning bronze for Best Community Project. In the Best of polls Shubie Park and Lake Banook also received recognition, as well as the Mi'kmaq Bar and Grill, the Wooden Monkey in Dartmouth, and CheeseCurds Gourmet Burgers & Poutinerie.

This speaks to the success of growing businesses, green spaces, and community space initiatives throughout Dartmouth. Thank you Mr. Speaker.

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

RCL BRANCHES - NORTHSIDE-WESTMOUNT: EFFORTS - THANK

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : As Remembrance Day approaches let's take a minute to thank all Legion branches from Newfoundland and Labrador to British Columbia who sell upwards of 18 million poppies and over 70,000 wreaths that allows the Legion branches to support the services they provide throughout the year.

[Page 2246]

This is a significant time of year for vets and their families. These vets go into schools and participate in Remembrance Day services to help remember all those who gave the supreme sacrifice so we can enjoy the freedoms we enjoy.

Many thanks to all branches within Northside-Westmount for all they do for veterans throughout the year and leading our Remembrance Day services. I encourage all Nova Scotians to attend a service in your area, lest we forget.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cumberland South.

METCALF, ROBERT: SERV. - THANK

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : As we pay tribute and remember those who defended our freedoms so many years ago, it is often helpful to take the opportunity to thank veterans individually. For instance some may know the story about the veteran featured on our $10 bill. That gentleman was Robert Metcalfe and he fought in World War II. Mr. Metcalfe was wounded in the war and endured many historic battles. He was called to the War Memorial in Ottawa one day for a photo. He had no idea he would end up being featured on our $10 bill as his legacy.

There are so many brave soldiers who fought for our freedom living in this province, Mr. Speaker. Let us take time to hear their stories, show our gratitude, and honour what they have given us, while we remember those who lost their lives.

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

CLARK'S HBR. LEGION BR. 148 - IMPORTANCE

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I wish to take a moment today to bring attention to the importance of the Clark's Harbour Legion Branch 148. With support from the Town of Clark's Harbour, the Legion has been able to remain in their original building since 1956. The Legion has been offering assistance to veterans and their families in our communities for many years. Some of their generous contributions include: financially supporting Veterans Place at the Yarmouth Regional Hospital, purchasing equipment, providing annual scholarships and bursaries, and supporting the poppy campaign.

The Legion recently made a contribution to Bay Side Home to purchase a new bus enabling veterans to have better access to services in their community. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the Clark's Harbour Legion for their continued support of our veterans and wish them continues success.

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

[Page 2247]

VETS CAN. (N.S.) - VOLS.

MS. PAM EYKING « » : Mr. Speaker, as we approach November 11^th, I rise today to recognize the team of volunteers with Vets Canada here in Nova Scotia. Those volunteers include still serving and retired members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Their boots on the group team identify homeless and at-risk veterans and accompany and/or refer them to Veterans Affairs offices, shelters, the Royal Canadian Legion, medical and substance abuse treatment programs, and provides peer support and coaching.

Mr. Speaker, they are providing an important service to our veterans and indeed to Nova Scotians and on November 11^th, when we acknowledge our veterans and members of the Canadian Forces, we need to also acknowledge those who volunteer their time to valuable programs such as these, thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou Centre.

VETERANS: ROLE - REFLECT

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, this is a time of year when we all reflect on the valuable role that veterans have played to preserve freedom in our country and around the world. Many of us have had members of our families who have served and have our own personal memories of stories told to us.

With each year that passes fewer of our veterans from wars in the past remain with us, however with the unrest that exists in the world today, we have younger and younger veterans. Let us all pray and look forward to the day when we have a generation that does not require sending of troops and that respect and reverence paid to our veterans will be a past generation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

SHUBENACADIE CANAL COMMN.

MR. ALLAN ROWE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to speak for a moment about the wonderful work of the Shubenacadie Canal Commission to promote and protect the historic waterway that runs from Halifax Harbour all the way through to Cobequid Bay. The Shubenacadie Canal Commission enhances public access to the use of the waterway for recreational, educational, cultural, and economic benefits for residents and visitors to Nova Scotia. It works with members of provincial departments, the municipality, and federal offices, along with dozens of community stakeholders, to ensure that access to this important waterway is maintained and preserved for future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to remind all members of this Legislature of the hard work of this commission, and I look forward to continuing to work with them and the members of this House whose constituencies also include the beautiful Shubenacadie Canal. Thank you.

[Page 2248]

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

FISHER FAM.: WWI/WWII - SERV.

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, rural communities in Nova Scotia will attend Remembrance Day services with long memories of their sons and daughters who served in both World Wars and in subsequent conflicts. One example is the small community of Middle Stewiacke.

I want to speak in particular of the Fisher family. Nineteen men and one woman served in World War I, with three killed in action; 55 men and women from the community served in World War II, with five killed in action.

Harold T., Henry, John, Alexander, and George Fisher were brothers who all served. Henry's grandson Daniel now serves. Byard, Harold D., and Adams Fisher were brothers who enlisted. Byard's plane was shot down over Malta, and he and the crew were killed. Adams' son Alden would later serve in the Korean War. Howard and Norman Fisher were brothers. Rupert and Weldon Fisher were brothers. The Fisher family does not forget.

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

PORT WILLIAMS - ANL. REMEMBRANCE DAY OBSERVANCE (9^TH)

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, the village of Port Williams will hold its 9^th Annual Remembrance Day observance on Sunday, November 9^th, at the Veterans Memorial. Tribute will be paid to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend the freedom that Canadians enjoy today. Those who served in the Boer War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, peacekeeping missions, and Afghanistan will be honoured. The service will be conducted by Reverend Dave Ogilvie of the United Baptist Church, with music by the RCMP Pipe Band. Members of the Atlantic Canadian World War II Living History Association and Canning Legion Branch 73 will also participate.

This year the community has added a second monument to honour the role of women during wartime with the Women's Institute. The community really understands the meaning of Lest We Forget. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

DEVEAU, LOUIS E.: UNIVERSITÉ SAINTE-ANNE BLDG.

[Page 2249]

- NAMING CEREMONY

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, on October 18^th I was privileged to attend a reception at Université Sainte-Anne kicking off their fundraising efforts and renaming a building in honour of Louis E. Deveau. Mr. Deveau is a businessman, university alumnus, and former chancellor who recently made a donation to the school, Nova Scotia's only francophone post-secondary institution.

The unveiling of le Centre de l'Entrepreneuriat Louis Deveau marked the official launch of the university's major fundraising campaign. Mr. Deveau, from Salmon River, Digby County, graduated from Université Sainte-Anne with a B.A. in 1953 and from the Nova Scotia Technical College with an engineering degree in 1957.

Mr. Deveau launched Acadian Seaplants, which today grows, harvests, and processes seaweed for many specialty markets, including the human nutrition, health and beauty, and agricultural industries. Acadian Seaplants exports to more than 80 countries, employs 300 people in eight countries, and provides seasonal jobs for more than 700 harvesters in Canada and Ireland.

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

REMEMBRANCE DAY: VETERANS/CURRENT SERV. MEMBERS

- REMEMBER

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, the sacrifices of generations of Canadians who have risked their lives for our country will be recognized on November 11^th and every day of the year. It has been my pleasure to know Wilf Edmond, a veteran who has put his community before himself.

Wilf received the Caring Canadian Award from Governor General David Johnston this year, and I am honoured to call him a friend. Wilf Edmond served as Dominion Command president from 2008 to 2010, the first Cape Bretoner to do so, and has been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 5 in Donkin for the past 56 years.

It is veterans like Wilf who have made this country such a great country to live in. They sacrifice everything for all of us to have our freedom, which we should never take for granted.

As we gather on Remembrance Day, remember all our veterans and members of the current service who have sacrificed for us and continue to do so. Thank you.

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

CULTURE FRANCOPHONE - PROTÉGER

[Page 2250]

MR. IAIN RANKIN « » : Merci, M. le Président. I have been fortunate to attend immigration announcements and many multicultural events and festivals, which help to promote an inclusive, diverse environment in Nova Scotia.

J'ai aussi eu l'occasion de participer à plusieurs activités célébrant la culture francophone, à la fois dans la province et sur la scène internationale, au nom du gouvernement provincial. Les Acadiens sont l'un des peuples fondateurs de la Nouvelle-Écosse, et notre gouvernement s'engage à jouer un rôle fondamental dans la préservation de cette importante culture.

La culture en Nouvelle-Écosse, tout comme au Canada, est en pleine évolution. Nous sommes responsables de protéger le français tout en acceptant les nouvelles cultures et les nouveaux contextes afin d'enrichir notre population. Si nous n'arrivons pas à protéger les cultures francophone, gaëlique et autochtone, nous ne serons pas en mesure d'accueillir de façon appropriée les nouveaux Néo-Écossais d'autres cultures. Je me sens privilégié de pouvoir appuyer mes collègues dans l'Assemblée dans cette initiative.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Merci. I will ask the honourable member to table a copy of that member's statement in English for the purposes of Hansard. Thank you.

The honourable member for Pictou West.

NO. 2 CONST. BATTALION (BLACK BATTALION) WWI

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, Canadians of African descent served the British Empire in the War of 1812 and the Rebellions of 1837, yet were turned away from recruiting centres at the onset of World War I. However, on July 5, 1916, the Canadian military authorized the creation of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, also known as the Black Battalion, with headquarters located at Market Wharf in Pictou.

Despite earlier discrimination, over 600 men enlisted, determined to contribute to the war effort. The battalion was sent to Europe in 1917 and then officially disbanded in 1920. An annual service commemorates their sacrifice every July in the Town of Pictou. Let us remember the brave men of the only Black battalion in Canadian history on November 11^th. Thank you.

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

ZUTPHEN CONST.

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago, Zutphen Construction began one of the most successful family-owned businesses in Nova Scotia, with operations in civil, marine and industrial construction. From the land of their birth in Holland, the family looked first to Ontario and then to Nova Scotia for plentiful farmland. They found it in southwest Mabou. John and Ted van Zutphen were young boys when they arrived in 1952, but they became pillars of leadership for their community. Their determination, commitment and business acumen have seen their construction company develop into a significant economic contributor for our province.

[Page 2251]

The van Zutphen family has employed many talented Nova Scotians as engineers, heavy equipment operators, mechanics, labourers and office administrators. The risks they have taken to grow their business have meant our people have not had to leave home to seek employment. They built an extended family with the communities they settled in and we are proud they chose to live here in their Nova Scotian home. Thank you and congratulations to the van Zutphen family for 50 years of success.

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

ST. F.X.U. - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES RESEARCH CTR.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take a moment to recognize some important work being conducted at a local university in Antigonish. I'd like to recognize the work being done by the Environmental Sciences Research Centre and the team there.

Part of that team are two Canada Research Chairs, which is a very prestigious position to hold for academics: the current director, Dr. Lisa Kellman, who is the Canada Research Chair in Environmental Sciences, Climate Change and Global Warming; and Dr. Ricardo Scrosati, CRC in Marine Ecology.

I'd like to thank them for the great work that they're doing. There's approximately $5 million over the past five years that they've brought into the university for their research, which helps support the work of three Ph.D. students, two post-doctoral students and 11 master's students and four undergraduate research students on campus. Thank you.

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

WALL, CARL: MILITARY SERV. - THANKS

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have this opportunity to personally thank Carl Wall, president of the North Sydney Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19. Carl has given 50 years of service to the Canadian military, first as an air cadet, then as a member of the Air Force and now as a loyal Legion member. Carl served in the Gulf War, Bosnian War, relief efforts in Ethiopia, peacekeeping in the Middle East and a host of other postings.

Carl believes in veterans, their brotherhood and what the Legions do for veterans. We need to keep showing remembrance and respect for veterans still with us and those who have passed. It's an honour today to offer Carl our sincere thank-you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

[Page 2252]

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

MARSHALL STEELE, SUSAN - P.M. TEACHING AWARD

MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : Mr. Speaker, today at Astral Drive Elementary School in Cole Harbour, I will be presenting Susan Marshall Steele, a teacher at the school, congratulations from the province on receiving the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence. This award recognizes and honours her outstanding and innovative teaching skills.

Susan is a lifelong learner and is working on her third master's degree. Her qualifications, skills and knowledge, coupled with her deep commitment to volunteerism, have enriched students within our community and local organizations for almost two decades. May the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Susan Marshall Steele for receiving such high recognition. Thank you.

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

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : I don't have a member's statement. I believe they are complete, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : I'm sorry, I missed you.

MR. FARRELL « » : I was going to seek unanimous consent of the House to revert to the order of business, Government Notices of Motion.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 691

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

Whereas family physicians play an integral role in the lives of Nova Scotians, starting from birth and continuing through adulthood; and

[Page 2253]

Whereas family doctors have dedicated their lives and careers to delivering the best quality health care to their patients; and

Whereas the ongoing efforts of family doctors to diagnose and treat illness and injury, promote disease prevention and coordinate quality care are appreciated and make a tremendous impact on the lives of all Nova Scotians;

Therefore be it resolved that November 10^th to November 15^th be recognized as Family Doctor Week in Nova Scotia.

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.

We will now revert to the order of business, Statements by Members.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore- Tracadie.

MACINTYRE, FRED

MR. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Fred MacIntyre of Ingonish in Cape Breton, who joined the North Novies in New Glasgow in 1941. Fred served in active service in Britain, France, Italy, Belgium, Holland and Germany, being released from active service in November 1945 at Halifax. He proudly displayed the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and clasp, the 1939-45 Star, the Italy Star, the France and Germany Star, the Defence Medal and the War Medal.

Like all veterans, Fred would never speak of his war service. His family knew, however, that while staging in Britain, he met and married a British lady and upon demobilization, after serving and surviving throughout Europe, learned that both his wife and their son had been killed by German bombers while he was in Europe. Such is the brutality of war, lest we forget.

[Page 2254]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clayton Park West.

TERNAN, MARY-EVELYN: SMU ALUMNI ASSOC. PRES. - APPT.

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding community volunteer from my riding of Clayton Park West. Mary-Evelyn Ternan has recently become the president of the Saint Mary's University Alumni Association. She has a long and proud history with Saint Mary's that began in 1968, the very year that Saint Mary's went co-ed.

After receiving her B.A. in 1969 and a B.Ed. in 1970, Mary-Evelyn began a successful career - a 33-year career, and a rewarding one, as a teacher in Halifax schools. She started at Central Spryfield School, and at the end of her career, she was on the staff at the new Park West School when it opened its doors. She settled the students in for the first few years of that school. I've known children who were in her class and have spoken of her and loved her very much. During her career, she took a sabbatical to earn a Master's in Education in 1988; that was also from her alma mater, Saint Mary's.

She is a personal friend and has been very involved in political life as well. I wish her all the best in this year as president of the Alumni Association of Saint Mary's.

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

CLARE-DIGBY MINK IND.

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On several occasions I rose to talk about a very important industry in my riding, the mink industry. I think one of the last times that I spoke, I was talking of the plight of that industry and some of the challenges that they were having with markets. I am pleased to say that as of two weeks ago, over one million mink were processed through the facility at the 340 Co-op and effectively last weekend we were 180,000 ahead of what we have ever seen in record numbers for that industry.

I would like to thank the minister for all the work and the support that he has put into making the summer a little bit more bearable for the people who participate in that industry, and I look forward to attending their AGM on November 13^th and celebrating the success of an industry that struggled and lived through hard times and hopefully is going to prosper and grow in the future.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Barring no more members' statements the House will recess until 10:00 a.m. (Interruption)

The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.

[Page 2255]

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Is that a final ruling, Mr. Speaker? I was going to call Government Business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Deputy Government House Leader has called for Government Business, which I'm advised we are able to do, so we'll move on to Government Business.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

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

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

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

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 6.

Bill No. 6 - Petroleum Resources Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou East for the continuation of his debate.

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, can I just get a quick time check on proceedings - how long do I have?

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member has 23 minutes left.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is a pleasure to rise and speak about Bill No. 6 again today. We talked quite a bit about Bill No. 6 over the last few days. Bill No. 6 is a poor piece of legislation. There is a lot of disappointment on this side of the House with Bill No. 6 and a lot of disappointment amongst Nova Scotians about Bill No. 6, because Nova Scotians are looking to this government to suggest how the government is going to move the province forward. What is this government going to do to address some of the issues that the province is facing? One of the first things a government does is it says, we're not going to do this; we're not going to investigate this revenue stream; we're not interested in exploring new ways to turn the province around.

We don't want to do that. We're going to ban this. Then, Nova Scotians started to say, well, why are we banning this? Why can't we investigate it? The minister says, well, it's only a temporary ban. We are going to repeal it later on. Nova Scotians really don't know what to expect from this government. If you are a business and you're considering where you should operate, what projects you should follow, you look at Bill No. 6 and you say well, this is a government that is pretty unpredictable; I can't even understand this piece of legislation.

[Page 2256]

We don't want to confuse business. We want to be welcoming business. We want to be working with business and saying how can we work together for the betterment of the province? We're not seeing that with Bill No. 6. Bill No. 6 sends the message that we don't want onshore energy development. I know we have heard from the minister and he has talked about different projects that are going in different parts of the province and he says, well, that's enough. We don't need any more development. We have enough; we have offshore and we are looking at hydro, so we don't want any more - in a province with $15 billion worth of debt, in a province that had a deficit of $680 million last year and has a deficit of $300 million this year.

Mr. Speaker, the ins and the outs don't balance. If you're going to be a government that stands up and says we are not interested in exploring any more new ins, then how do you make that equation balance? You have to cut the outs. So how is this government going to address the financial situation of this province when it won't consider new ways to generate revenue?

The really sad part of all this is the message that it sends to the rest of Canada, to the rest of the world, that Nova Scotia is a province that is not interested in helping itself. Nova Scotia is a province that won't do its homework. If you look at the Department of Energy's website, on their own website, in the questions and answers, there's a question there. It says, can fracking be done safely? That's the question on the Department of Energy's own website. The answer is that while fracking has been done safely in many instances, there have been examples where it has gone wrong, where the regulations haven't been followed or the exploration hasn't been properly monitored.

Well, Mr. Speaker, I take that to mean that if you have good regulation and you properly monitor things, fracking can be done safely. So this is a province that has no interest in developing proper regulations, has no interest in properly monitoring activities and making sure that things are done safely. Instead, we have a government that says we are not going to look at that.

We're not in a position to be saying we're not going to look at things. We don't have enough money to properly keep our infrastructure in place. We have roads all across the province that need work. This morning a member tabled a petition about a road in his constituency that needs to be rebuilt, redone. He said in his petition that the standard of that road is hurting industry. I think he said Agriculture and Fisheries and Aquaculture use that road, rely on that road, and the road is terrible. The road is damaging our own snowplows, I think he said.

[Page 2257]

We don't have the money to fix the roads, we don't have the money to properly care for our seniors, and yet we don't want to look for ways to help ourselves. Mr. Speaker, I am getting so worn down by standing up and talking to this government about the bad legislation that they put before this House. They put legislation before this House that doesn't help Nova Scotians, that tries to corner Nova Scotians into supporting things that aren't good for them.

I hope this House, this government, calls Bill No. 60 before this House. I would love to stand up and talk for hours on Bill No. 60, about how Bill No. 60 is bad for Nova Scotians, is bad for our youth, and is a bad piece of legislation. Bill No. 6 is the same thing. What we saw with Bill No. 1 is a government that will take some good things - you know, I'm optimistic. I'm hopeful that the government will properly execute the amalgamation of the health authorities, and maybe that will save money. I support good ideas, and that's a good idea, but in the same bill they include a bunch of other stuff around the unions that should have been separated out and properly debated. They put everything in one bill and say, take this.

Then we have Bill No. 6, where the government hasn't done its homework, hasn't talked to people, hasn't talked to industry, and they try to ram it through with their majority government. Then we see Bill No. 60, which is the culmination. It's the cherry on top. It's a combination of a bunch of things into one bill with proof that the homework hasn't been done on other issues.

So I would love to stand up and talk about Bill No. 60, and I hope I get a chance to do that today, but Bill No. 6 on its own is a bad piece of legislation. The government should be doing its homework. The government should be innovating, trying to come up with new ideas.

I have more to say on Bill No. 6, Mr. Speaker, but given the time right now, I would move to adjourn debate on Bill No. 6, and move into Oral Question Period. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is to adjourn debate on Bill No. 6.

There has been a call for a recorded vote. We will ring the bells for one hour, which will delay Question Period until the vote is conducted. (Interruptions)

We will recess for one minute while I get some advice on that question.

[9:55 a.m. The House recessed.]

[9:57 a.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. I want to provide some clarification on what I just said. I'll say it again, the recorded vote supersedes Question Period so we will ring the bells for one hour; Question Period will be at 10:58 a.m., immediately following the recorded vote.

[Page 2258]

The bells will ring for one hour and we will resume at 10:58 a.m.

Ring the bells. Call in the members.

[9:58 a.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Are the Whips satisfied? There is a request for a recorded vote on the motion to adjourn debate on Bill No. 6.

I would remind all members, again, that I'm asking for silence during the vote - not quiet chatter, but silence.

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[10:58 a.m.]

YEAS	NAYS
Mr. MacLeod	Mr. Colwell
Mr. MacMaster	Mr. Churchill
Mr. Dunn	Ms. Bernard
Mr. Baillie	Ms. Regan
Mr. d'Entremont	Mr. Samson
Mr. Corbett	Ms. Whalen
Ms. MacDonald	Mr. Glavine
Mr. David Wilson	Ms. Casey
Ms. Zann	Mr. MacLellan
Ms. Peterson-Rafuse	Mr. Younger
Mr. Belliveau	Mr. Horne
Mr. Orrell	Mr. Hines
Ms. MacFarlane	Mr. Stroink
Mr. Houston	Ms. Arab
Mr. Harrison	Mr. Delorey
Mr. Lohr	Mr. Ince
	Mr. Kousoulis
	Mr. Furey
	Mr. Farrell

[Page 2259]

	Mr. Gordon Wilson
	Mr. Rankin
	Ms. Miller
	Mr. Rowe
	Mr. Maguire
	Ms. Eyking
	Ms. Lohnes-Croft
	Ms. Treen
	Mr. Gough
	Mr. Jessome
	Mr. Irving

THE CLERK » : For, 16. Against, 30.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is defeated.

The honourable member for Pictou East.

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Are we going to continue debate on Bill No. 6?

MR. SPEAKER « » : No, we're moving on to Oral Questions Put by Members to Ministers.

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The time is now 11:02 a.m. We'll conclude at 11:52 a.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

Dep. Prem.: Bill No. 60 - Flaws Confirm

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : My question is to the Deputy Premier. Yesterday during Question Period, the Minister of Health and Wellness admitted that his bill was flawed. "The bill has a few flaws," is exactly his quote from Hansard. That is a blinding glance into the obvious now, Mr. Speaker - 3,600 teenage Nova Scotians certainly will feel the effects of this flawed bill. How the government messed up something that seemed so obviously right is beyond me.

In any event, I would like to ask the Deputy Premier, does she agree with the Minister of Health and Wellness that his bill is now flawed?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, when this bill passes, the youth that the member opposite is talking about will no longer be able to buy e-cigarettes. They'll be treated like tobacco. Smoking of the vapour products will be restricted. It will be a much better situation.

[Page 2260]

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, when this bill passes - gutted as it is by the government's own amendments - teenage Nova Scotians will be able to have cherry-flavoured tobacco, peach-flavoured tobacco, lipstick-flavoured tobacco. They had a chance to actually stop that, and we agreed with them that that should be stopped, and yet they took those provisions out. That's why it's a flawed bill. The Minister of Health and Wellness even admitted it. And all of that (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition has the floor.

MR. BAILLIE « » : All of that can be fixed right now if we continue to agree that cherry and peach and lipstick and all those other flavoured tobaccos can be stopped. Then we should do that. (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. I'll ask the honourable Leader of the Official Opposition to proceed with his question.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm trying. Why is this government going to rush a flawed bill through when there's such an obvious fix to it that we could do right now in this session?

MS. WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, the member opposite again is speaking about the sale of tobacco, which is currently illegal to everybody under the age of 19. That continues and so does the sale of e-cigarettes and the treatment of e-cigarettes as a tobacco product, and so where you can smoke it will be restricted. It's important to get this bill passed and move forward on this. Even Dr. Strang had said that we can do better in the bill in the future. (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Order, please. The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition on his final supplementary.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Our whole point is now is the time to do better. The government of Old Tomorrow always wants to put it off until another day. Well, 3,600 teenage Nova Scotians are going to start with cherry-flavoured and peach-flavoured tobacco. We know this, it's a matter of science, but that seems to be okay for the government to let that happen. I can't believe it's true.

They can quote whoever they want, community health boards, Doctors Nova Scotia, Smoke-Free Nova Scotia, they all want a ban on flavoured tobacco now. Will the Deputy Premier, on behalf of the government, apologize to all these groups that want to see a ban on tobacco flavours that are obviously targeted at teenaged Nova Scotians?

MS. WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I think it is very clear that by holding some parts of this bill separate, it shows that we are going to consult with Nova Scotians, all the people that the member opposite was speaking about.

[Page 2261]

Consultation and listening to Nova Scotians is the right thing to do and as I said, during Law Amendments Committee, the Progressive Conservative members were very big on the fact that we needed more consultation. Now it will be happening.

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

Health & Wellness - Non-Tobacco Prods.: Ban - Explain

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. In August of this year, the Minister of Health and Wellness was on a radio station in Bridgewater and he said, "I'm very concerned about the youth of our province that can see the e-cigarette as an entry into an addiction of nicotine and you know nicotine it's very, very difficult once you're addicted to break the addiction."

My question to the minister is, will the Minister of Health and Wellness explain the logic of cracking down on non-tobacco products while he is turning a blind eye to products he himself has admitted to be very, very difficult to quit once you've become addicted?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, perhaps it's time to enlighten the House and Nova Scotians as to what the other two Parties failed to do. I'm tabling a piece of Hansard which has the NDP posing the following question to the Progressive Conservatives:

"I'll table a letter obtained through Freedom of Information in which the Minister of Health Promotion and Protection indicates that he does endorse a ban, the Federal Government indicates it also endorses a ban. If everyone agrees it's such a great idea, why won't the Minister of Health Promotion ban it himself?"

That exchange was in 2008. Both Parties on the other side were aware, knew this was an issue, they both did nothing. This government will have a ban on flavoured tobacco.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, nobody is fooled by the pathetic attempts of the Minister of Health and Wellness to deflect from the failure of his flawed legislation.

Back in December 13^th, in the New Glasgow News, this minister told the public of Nova Scotia that e-cigarettes should be treated like tobacco. My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, when is he going to start treating tobacco like tobacco?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite, former Minister of Health and Wellness. I took a look at the strategy they brought forward in 2011, it doesn't mention e-cigarettes; it doesn't mention flavoured tobacco; in fact, even worse, these two ministers never raised flavoured tobacco in four and a half years, in four and a half years (Interruptions)

[Page 2262]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order. Order, please. Order, please. If we pay attention to the timeline there will be plenty of time for about 20 more questions, one at a time.

The honourable Acting Leader of the New Democratic Party on her final supplementary.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, I have a news flash for the Minister of Health and Wellness. He is now the person who is responsible for the health and well-being of people in this province and to go back to 2008 is just a cop-out and everybody here knows that.

We know that the Minister of Health and Wellness has some pretty interesting views on the health care system in Nova Scotia. He shared those with us in The Advertiser from Kings County shortly after he became Minister of Health and Wellness. In that article he chastised those who don't take the advice of their doctors, their nurses, and their nutritionists, to take more responsibility for wellness and their own health.

So my question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, why doesn't he take his own advice and start taking advice from the doctors and the nurses and the health care experts and providers in this province and ban flavoured tobacco now?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the former minister for reminding me, and all Nova Scotians, of how committed I am to the wellness of Nova Scotians.

The member opposite knows very well, as hard as we have taken the line on e-cigarettes, which is the best in Canada by the way, that won't happen until May 31^st of next year, and by May 31^st of next year our legislation will also include a ban on flavoured tobacco. And to finish, the Third Party has taken this as their flavour of the day.

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

Justice - N.S. Corr. Facility: Dangerous Offender - Escape

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker, it's a lively Friday morning here in the House of Assembly. My question is for the Deputy Premier.

We now know that a dangerous offender has escaped from the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility in Dartmouth. This is at least the fifth escape in the last few years. On a previous occasion, the Liberal Justice Critic, now the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism said: "This most recent incident does nothing to inspire confidence that the system has improved." And went on to say: "There are security protocols that need to be reconsidered at this point and one would think the government would undertake whatever measures are at its disposal."

[Page 2263]

So my question to the Deputy Premier is, what security protocols have been improved in the last year to prevent this from happening under the Liberal Government's watch?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, this is certainly a good question from the member opposite and I'd like the Minister of Justice to answer that.

HON. LENA DIAB » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the Leader of the Official Opposition for this very important and serious question today. I really hope that everybody in the House is listening and I hope that, because this is televised, the public is all listening.

I'm angry and I'm appalled that an offender has been released in error from our correctional facility. Something this severe should never be allowed to happen. The important thing right now is for people to understand this has happened - a press release has just been issued with the photo and information about the offender. We need to make sure the word gets out and police are investigating.

MR. BAILLIE « » :, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the Minister of Justice for that answer and it's important that those things be clear, but my question was this: the Liberal Justice Critic, last time around, said it's important at that point that security protocols be improved, and all Nova Scotians are going to want to know how this happened under that minister's watch and I ask her, what improvements in the security protocols have been made under her watch to prevent this thing from happening in the first place?

MS. DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, you can rest assured that we will find out how this happened. An internal investigation at the moment is occurring. The important thing that I want people to keep in mind though is that the priority here is to ensure that this offender is caught, that we make sure our children and our parents are all safe and that they are all aware that this has happened. Thank you.

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

Energy: Offshore Dev. - Bids

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : My new question is for the Deputy Premier. We now know, Mr. Speaker, this week that the call for bids on offshore exploration development has come up with a big zero. That's despite the fact that only two years ago we had bids totalling $2 billion for the right to explore and develop our offshore resources. Clearly the closed for business sign that the government has put up across our whole province with their ban on onshore gas is costing Nova Scotians in offshore opportunities now.

[Page 2264]

Will the Deputy Premier admit the obvious, that their policy of banning onshore development is now hurting our offshore as well?

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER » : Obviously I'm disappointed that there were no bids. As he would be aware, companies have indicated that it's because they felt it was a gas play and there are already 15 SDLs available. It's interesting to me that he thinks that we're closed for business, since Bear Head announced Friday that they were doubling production and the size of their project. Yesterday they announced that they are actually adding another 30 per cent to their application to the size of their project. Deep Panuke just the other day did a $450 million capital raise for projects here in Nova Scotia, and just this past week we had energy investors from around the world talking about what a great place Nova Scotia is to invest in energy.

MR. BAILLIE « » : The minister can't have it both ways. He's either disappointed or he's thrilled with what's going on. I don't know which it is. He said both.

The fact of the matter is, warm words aside, the bids were zero dollars. That is the problem. When he was an Opposition Critic, he had a lot to say about this very scenario. He said in this House, when we had previous bids of zero under the NDP, "What is your department doing either independently or in co-operation with the board to try and ensure that the parcels that are nominated are actually parcels that the industry is interested in bidding on?"

In other words, he wanted the NDP to do their job and make sure these bids attracted real dollars. Did he do his job, and if so, why did he fail so badly in this case?

MR. YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, It's a good question. In fact, these parcels were established for bid before we were in government, so the first ones (Interruption)

Mr. Speaker, this is an important question. It's a very important question, because exactly what I asked the previous government to do is a process that we already began for the first call for bids that we're involved in establishing the parcels for, and the nomination for those parcels closes on December 1^st of this year.

I'm doing exactly what I called on the NDP to do previously. I am disappointed that there are zero bids on this, absolutely, like all Nova Scotians, but we are absolutely not closed for business. The recent investments in our offshore and onshore petroleum in the past few days alone prove that.

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

Justice - N.S. Corr. Facility: Escapee - Public Protection

[Page 2265]

HON. FRANK CORBETT « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Justice. As we heard in a previous question, a dangerous offender is now on the loose. There is plenty of time in the future if we're going to talk about blame, but today is about the security of our citizens.

I want to ask, Mr. Speaker, through you to the minister, what protocols are in place now to protect the citizens while this individual is on the loose?

HON. LENA DIAB « » : Thank you to the member for the very good question that he is asking. A press release has been issued with a photo of the offender. That has gone out to all media outlets. The police are actively searching for the offender. We're seeking the help of all media to ensure that the word gets out, and the fact that we're televised now hopefully will also increase awareness out there. Perhaps you can all let your MLA constituency offices know that the release has a photo of the offender right in it.

MR. CORBETT « » : I want to thank the minister for her answer. Through you again, Mr. Speaker, to the minister, can you advise the House what the investigation will look like vis-à-vis to find out why this incident happened? Can you explain how that will unfold?

MS. DIAB « » : There is an ongoing internal investigation right now with the correctional facility. This only happened about an hour ago, if that, so that is ongoing. I don't have any specific information on that, but rest assured, you all here, as well as the media, will all be informed as to how this could possibly have happened. Thank you.

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

Com. Serv. - Funding: Accommodations - Details

MR. CHUCK PORTER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question will be to the Minister of Community Services. As the minister and her government are well aware, and all of us for that matter, there was a $52 million investment announced a week or so ago to help those most in need really, when we think about that. I would like to ask the minister, will that money be spent on constructing new facilities to help accommodate some of these situations that exist for individuals, families and others looking for affordable housing?

HON. JOANNE BERNARD » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for the question. Ever since coming into office as Minister of Community Services and Housing Nova Scotia, we have been quite proactive in establishing new and exciting partnerships with municipal governments, private sector and non-profit. There are new builds going up all over Nova Scotia, from one end of the province to the other, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, different municipalities. The private sector has come to the table and actually engaged government in looking at housing. We currently house over 18,000 in the Province of Nova Scotia and I'm quite excited about the new builds, including the big one in HRM, which will be Bloomfield, which is absolutely on time and on track for opening in 2017.

[Page 2266]

MR. PORTER « » : I thank the minister for her answer. I would, just further to that, ask - as far as I know we haven't anything slated for the area of Hants West that I represent and the numbers, actually, are quite staggering, how many there are waiting for affordable housing, unfortunately - is part of this $52 million investment also inclusive of rental supplements, I guess is the term that's used nowadays, for those on low income?

MS. BERNARD « » : Absolutely, in fact, $9.4 million of the $52 million that was announced last week will go directly to rent supplements, and what that will do will move approximately 500 people, or one-quarter of the wait-list, off the wait-list for affordable housing, so people who are low income or on income assistance who currently receive a shelter rate will have their rent supplemented, and that will be rolled out by December 1^st. That is the fastest, most effective way to move people off a wait-list and get them into safe housing. That will be ongoing over the next couple of months, but we'll be starting December 1^st.

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

Dep. Prem.: Elections N.S. Rept. - Recommendations

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : My question is for the Deputy Premier. Last week Elections Nova Scotia's 2013-14 Annual Report was tabled in this House. In that report, the Chief Electoral Officer made recommendations to the House of Assembly regarding new legislative changes. Chief among them is a call for fixed-date elections. Does the government intend to accept the chief recommendation of the Chief Electoral Officer and bring in legislation to establish fixed-date elections?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : That is a very topical question for all of us and one that we're very interested in. What I can assure the member opposite is we will be looking at all of the recommendations in that report.

MR. HARRISON « » : Nova Scotia is the last province in Canada to adopt these fixed election dates. Last December, the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board said in this House that fixing an election date would modernize Nova Scotia's approach to elections. That's Hansard, December 4^th. The Liberal Party, while in Opposition, introduced a bill to fix election dates. Establishing election dates is the chief recommendation of elections Nova Scotia. So why is the government not accepting this recommendation?

MS. WHALEN « » : It's very clear that the member opposite is incorrect in saying that we're not looking at it. We are looking at all the recommendations and certainly taking them under advisement because we have a great deal of respect, as all members do, for Elections Nova Scotia and the very important role they play in ensuring that we have an up-to-date democracy. Thank you.

[Page 2267]

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

Health & Wellness: Home Care Model - Details

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. Yesterday during Oral Question Period, the Minister of Health and Wellness was asked about a family that is unable to get home care services through the VON for their mother because home care has been frozen by the VON for several months. In responding to the question the minister said, "We're moving to what will be a competitive model to provide home care, which we think will bring better results."

Would the Minister of Health and Wellness please explain what he meant when he made reference to a competitive model?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, as the member opposite knows, we are currently doing a refresh of the Continuing Care Strategy which came into effect in 2006. I'm sure that she will be anticipating those changes and results probably by Spring.

MS. MACDONALD « » : When a person leaves a hospital but still requires medical care that only a nurse can provide, they get home care services through the VON across this province. The Victorian Order of Nurses, a very respected organization, is a not-for-profit health care model of delivery.

Nurses in rural Nova Scotia are concerned that a more competitive model may be code for privitizing health care, bringing private, for-profit providers into the system. My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, will he please explain whether his plans for continuing care include allowing for-profit health care to provide nursing or other services throughout our health care system?

MR. GLAVINE « » : We know what a great service VON provides, both in terms of nursing and in home support. We know that VON has a place, a future in any of our plans here in Nova Scotia. In terms of gaining the greatest efficiencies, we know that probably in the home support area there can be some change, in fact, that will improve the system.

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

Health & Wellness: Oral Health Strategy - Consultation

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, last week the College of Dental Hygienists called on the provincial government to create an oral health strategy to help promote oral health care. They are not alone in that call; the Nova Scotia Dental Association has been calling on the government of the day for action for a few years. Both represent a group of people that are experts in their fields. By encouraging first-tooth, first-visit practice, and allowing dental hygienists to operate and deliver services in community clinics, we could prevent hundreds of costly, unnecessary surgeries children undergo each year.

[Page 2268]

My question to the minister is, has the minister spoken with representatives of these two groups and has he adopted their call for action?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, the former Minister of Health raises a great question today. We know that unfortunately during the time of the NDP's time in office, with dental care, they pushed to get dental care over a wider part of our youth population. If they had actually consulted, there would have been greater direction towards the very area that the dental hygienists are now identifying, having provided a great report to Nova Scotia.

When the House adjourns - whenever - then I will be meeting with that group. I think they're making some excellent points that can improve dental care in Nova Scotia.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : When the House adjourns, indeed. Chronic cavities can lead to early childhood caries, ECC, which may result in painful surgery for children. This is entirely preventable. Together, both organizations have concrete and relatively straightforward requests from the government to help better with the oral health of young children.

These hospital stays are preventable, painful and costly to both the parents and to the children. It is time Nova Scotians received more education and services to meet oral health care needs.

When can Nova Scotians expect movement from this government on the recommendations made by the Nova Scotia Dental Association and the College of Dental Hygienists?

MR. GLAVINE « » : It's a very, very important question. It's one that we had to make one of those difficult decisions on at a time of fiscal restraint. We had to provide the IWK with another child dental surgeon, an anesthesiologist to support the program, especially when a lot of that serious work can be prevented by interventions early on. I have met with the Dental Association; I will meet with the hygienists after the House adjourns. I think both are going to have very significant input into the direction that we need to take to make sure that the early years get the most attention.

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

LAE: Workplace Sexual Harassment - Guidelines Review

[Page 2269]

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. I know we're all troubled here to hear allegations of sexual harassment in the workplace. There have been many such allegations in the news this Fall. While the workplace settings are very varied, one similarity among all of these reports is the uncertainty about what actions an employer can and should take.

My question, Mr. Speaker, through you to the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education, is, will she commit to reviewing the provincial guidelines for dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace and report her findings to this House?

HON. KELLY REGAN » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the honourable member for the question. We were, in fact, all quite shocked to hear about a number of different allegations in the workplace. I would like to let Nova Scotians know that if they do feel that they are not being treated properly in their workplace, they can contact our Labour Standards line and we'll walk them through what the situation is. In some cases, there will be a necessity to go through that process; other situations would be more properly handled by the Human Rights Commission. Thank you.

MS. MACDONALD « » : I thank the minister for her answer. Workplaces in our province are very diverse and so, too, is their corporate culture. For example, a manufacturing facility is different from a hospital, and our Legislature, for example, operates differently than a retail store.

My question for the minister is, will she commit to ensuring that provincial guidelines for dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace take the diversity of our work settings, including our Legislature, into account and ensuring that they apply to everyone, and that everyone is aware of what these guidelines contain?

MS. REGAN « » : If anyone has any questions, I would urge them to call the Labour Standards Branch; the number is 1-888-315-0110. If anyone, whether they're an employer or an employee, has concerns, they can contact that number and we walk them though what the standards are. I'll send that number over to the former minister afterwards.

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

PSC - Feb. Holiday: Civil Servants - Costs

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of the Public Service Commission. Yesterday, we heard the minister speak about a number of initiatives the Public Service Commission is planning to implement. They plan to attract young people to the civil service while instituting a hiring freeze and a 1 per cent reduction in all departments. The cost of a new February holiday will impact departments a significant amount.

[Page 2270]

My question to the minister is, how much will the holiday pay for civil servants cost Nova Scotia taxpayers?

HON. LABI KOUSOULIS « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the member from across for the question. Nova Scotia has the least amount of holidays in Canada, and the provinces that have the most, Alberta and Saskatchewan, actually have the most booming economies in Canada. As well, in the Province of Nova Scotia, there is no hiring freeze. I don't know why the Opposition keeps thinking there is one.

As I said yesterday, the Public Service Commission has just recently, in the last few months, hired multiple new graduates from both university and college.

MR. ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, they also have fracking in Alberta, so they can afford an extra holiday.

That wasn't my question; my question was the cost to the taxpayers. Small businesses are worried about the impact this holiday will have on them. They know exactly where the money will come from; it will come from their bottom line.

The government has to be honest about this as well. In September the Finance and Treasury Board Minister said departments were ordered to cut a further 1 per cent. She said in the coming year there would have to be some serious cuts and changes. My question, again, to the minister is, what services or programs will be cut as a result of the February holiday expenses?

MR. KOUSOULIS « » : Mr. Speaker, if the Opposition knew the definition of fracking they would know we have that here, too, in Nova Scotia.

There will be no services cut in the Province of Nova Scotia. We actually delayed the February holiday one year to allow small businesses to adjust for it. I've spoken with many small businesses and they welcome the holiday, they say that it will be good to have a break through the long winter. It will improve employee morale, increase productivity - something the Opposition just can't wrap their heads around.

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

TIR: Winter Works Dispatchers - Downsizing

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

It has come to my attention that there are discussions beginning regarding the downsizing of winter work dispatchers who provide a great service during the winter months. Can the minister please confirm if the Department of TIR is, in fact, considering cutting winter works dispatchers?

[Page 2271]

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN » : Mr. Speaker, absolutely, positively not, in no way, shape, or form are we cutting anything. I know what the member is referring to. We have a serious issue with communications with respect to our winter maintenance for the most part, among other things the transportation that came out many times last year during a very difficult season. We have a dispatch and a calling system that simply isn't working for Nova Scotians.

What we're doing is we're looking at a clear centre that is 24/7, that operates with professional people who take these calls, who know how to reroute traffic, who know how to make dispatch calls, who know how to reach out to those on the ground who are plowing our streets and making sure we're getting home safely. This is a good move, it's about efficiency, there's also a $400,000 cost saving and there will be no layoffs, no jobs impacted in any way, shape, or form.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for his answer. I do have a letter here, which I will table because it is my understanding through this letter that 30 winter work dispatch bases will be downsized to 14, and as many as 48 positions could be affected. If this is true, can the minister please confirm if the new central dispatch operation, how many jobs it would create and actually how many job losses would be taken out of rural Nova Scotia?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, we don't have dispatch depots. Dispatch is a function inside the current network of depots that we have, so this is a system that has become obsolete that we really have to create efficiency and effectiveness for the people of Nova Scotia. There aren't any job losses whatsoever. It affects 19 FTEs which will be entirely through attrition. There also will be 10 new employment positions there, so there's no hiring freeze in the Public Service right now, we're putting people to work and we're making sure we're doing good things for Nova Scotians.

This is a question of efficiency - in addition to the $400,000 cost savings we're going to have a better dispatch so we can get the word out to Nova Scotians when the winter conditions hit our province.

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

EECD - Sch. Employees:

[Page 2272]

Sexual Harassment Complaints - Process

HON. DENISE PETERSON-RAFUSE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

A recent story in The Chronicle Herald tells the story of three women who made complaints about inappropriate behaviour towards them by the principal at the school where they work - and I will table that. The women say that the principal continues to work at the school and there doesn't appear to have been any repercussions for the principal's actions. Mr. Speaker, my question through you to the minister is, what process is in place to deal with allegations of sexual harassment in Nova Scotia schools and, in light of this story, does the minister feel this process is adequate?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, thank you to the member for the question. The allegations obviously are serious. Any allegations are serious, and what's important is that there's a process in place so that those allegations can be investigated.

We do have a provincial code of conduct which covers all our staff and our students in our schools. Each board has their own code of conduct and we also have regional education officers who are in contact constantly with the board activities so anything that is untoward or that may need an investigation has a process it can go through.

MS. PETERSON-RAFUSE « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the minister for her answer. One of the women who made a complaint said she is disturbed as much by the school board's response as she was by the incident of harassment.

My question to the minister is, what action is the minister taking to create an environment where people in our school system have confidence their concerns about sexual harassment will be taken seriously and dealt with in an appropriate fashion?

MS. CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, again I would like to reassure all those people working in our school environment, whether it is our teachers or our principals or our students or our volunteers or any other staff who are there, if they feel they have been harassed in any way that there's a process to follow; there is a chain of command for them to go through. If, in fact, they feel they have not been satisfied with the response they get, there is also another contact for them.

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

COM. SERV. - FEB. HOLIDAY: SOCIAL WORKERS - EFFECT

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Community Services. The new February holiday will not only cost small business owners a significant amount of money but it will cost taxpayers as well. This is a cost we still do not know the extent of. People providing essential services across the province will need to work that day. People's needs do not stop just because the government has legislated a holiday.

[Page 2273]

My question to the minister is, will the minister confirm that the new February holiday will not affect the level of staffing on provincial social workers and will she estimate what the extra costs associated with this staffing will be?

HON. JOANNE BERNARD « » : I can assure the member across the floor that the level of professionals who are in the Department of Community Services will not be affected by this holiday and he knows as well as I do that the work these social workers do every day protecting the most vulnerable in Nova Scotia is hard work and there's a large burnout sector within that level of front-line care in Nova Scotia.

A February holiday will be a welcome addition and has been a welcome addition, based on comments from my staff about the February holiday.

MR. ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, no one in this House is disputing the important work that social workers do but it's also important that no one goes without services on those days. My question to the minister is, how will the minister make up the losses from her department as a result of this holiday? What services or programs may be impacted?

MS. BERNARD « » : I just want to assure the member across the floor that services in the Department of Community Services don't stop because of a Saturday, a Sunday or a holiday. There is emergency care that happens 24/7, 365 days in this department and there will be no impact on those services so that the most vulnerable in our society will not see any interruption in service whatsoever.

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

TIR - HWY. NO. 101: PHASE 4 - COMPLETION DETAILS

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. The minister's briefing notes describe Phase 4 of Highway No. 101 and explain that land constraints through the Town of Windsor, along with the karst topography of the area, suggest that much of the construction will be a narrow median with a barrier.

My question for the minister is, can the minister tell this House when the final design work for Phase 4 on Highway No. 101 through the Town of Windsor will be complete and whether the narrow median barrier will be considered?

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : I would like to thank the member for the question. This is a conversation I've had many, many times with the member for Hants West about Highway No. 101, the Windsor corridor of the highway.

[Page 2274]

Basically first and foremost with respect to the barriers, it's truly an alignment issue. We don't have the space within that area, based on some of the challenges with geography, to put up the Jersey barrier. That's something that the member asked for many times and if we could do it and if it was that simple, it would be done by now.

We are looking at some of the short-term measures we can do. In terms of the long-term plan for Highway No. 101, we are working towards that. My understanding is that the final design isn't quite done at this point, based on those challenges with respect to the alignment, but we'll certainly work on that, and we'll get the member an update as soon as we can.

MR. LOHR « » : I'd like to thank the minister for that answer. Last December 24^th, I attended a funeral of a Kings North constituent who died on this stretch of highway in a head-on collision, and with the winter now rapidly approaching, can the minister tell us if any of these short-term measures will be put in place before the onset of this winter?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : That's what we're looking at immediately. My deputy minister has been in contact with a number of stakeholders in the area. Obviously the TIR folks on the ground are looking at that, again, in conjunction with the many conversations we had here, so we'll certainly work towards that, and whatever we can get in place for the winter season along the Highway No. 101 stretch, we'll certainly do.

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

TIR: RTE. 203 - REPAVING UPDATE

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : My question too, is for the Minister of TIR. Route 203 is a vital link for residents in southwestern Nova Scotia, and is in serious need of repaving. Last session, the minister said, "We certainly have made no commitment to make that a gravel road. We will do our best to do what the people want." I can table that. My question to the minister is, can he give us an update on the status of repaving this stretch of road?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : I thank the honourable member for the question. The reality is that we haven't ruled anything out officially. Based on the response from the members from all sides of the House, we are doing a very organic consultation with respect to the route. The reality is that it's an extremely, extremely expensive project. I think the number is in the range of about 40 kilometres, and it's very, very low volume, particularly in the middle of that section, so from our own statistics and our own engineering process, it doesn't fit paving.

That's without question, but we're still looking at the ways that we can somehow rehabilitate this road. We know it's important to the member. It's certainly important to the Minister of Natural Resources, and it's important to that region, so we're going to do our best to fix it up to make sure it's safe and passable for the residents in that area.

[Page 2275]

MR. BELLIVEAU « » : This road needs to be repaved and not left as just gravel, as it affects many residents. In the last session the minister said, "There are a number of MLAs who are affected by that road so we will listen, we'll consult, we'll get positive feedback and we'll make our decision from there."

My final question to the minister is, when does he plan on starting the public consultation on this particular road?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : The reality is, we know we need a plan for this road. It's certainly in great decay. Again, based on the metrics that we used, that we applied, that the previous government applied when that member was in Cabinet, these are the rules of the game, Mr. Speaker. This is what we apply to our processes. We don't want unsafe roads. If we're looking at strictly process and procedure here, that route would be a gravel road, based on our metrics, but obviously from the public's perspective, that's not acceptable at this point, so we're going to continue to have those conversations.

Obviously, as we continue to work toward our 2015 Local Roads' Capital Plan, we're going to take all those things into consideration. We're going to look at all the roads, and as usual, we are going to do our very best and make sure Nova Scotians are safe.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS - NORTHSIDE GEN. HOSP.: MIN. VISIT - CONFIRM

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. In a previous Question Period in this session, I asked the Minister of Health and Wellness if he would come to the Northside General in Cape Breton and speak with health care workers about the closures of the ER, closures of the lab, and the state of the hospital in general. The minister committed to a meeting after this House sits. With the House getting close to drawing to a close, I wonder if the minister can update me on a specific date when he may come to the Northside General.

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I don't know the exact schedule of when the House will adjourn. I thought it was going to be today, made plans for today. I have plans to go to Cape Breton next week, looking at Thursday and Friday, possibly, of next week. It is primarily a fact-finding mission, as a big part of it. I've been in constant contact with the member for Victoria-The Lakes on the issues that concern her constituents, as well as the member who is from that area where the hospital is located. I know we'll have a very important trip to the area.

MR. ORRELL « » : Thank you for the answer, minister. The people of the Northside are very concerned about rumors around the closure of the Northside General and turning it into a nursing home. The minister just talked about the importance of the constituents in that area of the hospital, and I wonder if the minister will commit to having a public meeting and giving an update to the community on exactly where the plans are for the Northside General, the emergency room, the lab, and if it's slated to be closed or not.

[Page 2276]

MR. GLAVINE « » : Thank you very much for the question. At this stage, we have additional important meetings to those that are in Northside. We will meet with certainly the clinical stakeholders at Northside, community people for sure. I know there is a lot of concern that has arisen there, not unlike some other hospitals that are about 40, 45 beds where some changes have been made, but what I can assure the member opposite and what he can quote in the media back home is there are no plans for closing Northside General Hospital.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The time allotted for Oral Questions Put by Members to Ministers has expired.

The honourable Government House Leader.

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

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, on a point of order. The government has already called its business for the day. We moved adjournment and they defeated the Adjournment motion, so we are on Government Business already, as we were before Question Period started. We're debating Bill No. 6.

MR. SPEAKER « » : I've been provided some expert advice and the debate on Bill No. 6 was voted down, so therefore . . .

SOME HON. MEMBERS: The adjournment.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The Adjournment debate was defeated, so we're still on the debate for Bill No. 6.

[PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING]

[Bill No. 6 - Petroleum Resources Act.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou East.

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure to rise again and speak to this bill. This bill is really a symptom of the issue that we have with this government. This government continues to put bad legislation before this House, tries to use their majority to ram it through with late hours, sit until 12:00 midnight, sitting all night trying to push bills through this House so they can fix them later.

[Page 2277]

We already have Bill No. 6 here. The minister has already acknowledged in the media that he's going to adjust this bill. He's putting a ban in place here and he's going to adjust it later.

Then we see Bill No. 60, which the Minister of Health and Wellness admitted to this House is a flawed bill and he said he will fix it later. Well, maybe we can stay here until midnight tonight debating Bill No. 60 so the government can use their majority and try to push it through so they can fix it later. We're going to see the same thing with Bill No. 6. We see it with every bill this government puts forth. We have Bill No. 51 before this House - same thing, we're going to fix it later, we're going to clean it up later.

When we put legislation through it sends a message about what this province, what this government, is all about. With Bill No. 6, the message is very clear. The message is very clear to business, the message is very clear to the rest of Canada, that this is a government that will stumble along, make mistakes, try to fix them later, but they will not stop. They will not stop and listen to Nova Scotians. They will not stop and stop in their tracks and say this is a mistake, we're going to get this right the first time. They have no interest in getting things right the first time, they are only interested in jamming things through this House and sending a message to industry that this is the way this government operates.

The minister can stand up and say that everything is great in the Department of Energy, everything is great with oil and gas exploration, we have all this offshore business, isn't everything wonderful? So let's not try to attract any more business to Nova Scotia because we have just enough.

Then what we find out, actually, Mr. Speaker, zero bids for zero dollars on the most recent block put up for bid. I wonder why - could it be a signal that companies are nervous about this government? They don't know what to expect. They are making decisions on how to allocate their capital, which projects to take forward, and there's a big question mark over any projects tied to this jurisdiction, a very big question mark - a ton of uncertainty.

Mr. Speaker, if they pick up Bill No. 6, a one-page bill that closes the door on new ideas, closes the door on 1,500 possible jobs - we lost 9,000 jobs in this province - 1,500 jobs, the doors closed, not interested in looking at it - or are we? Who knows?

We're going to prohibit high-volume hydraulic fracturing. We're going to prohibit it, but nobody knows what it is. I hope that somebody from the government side will stand up today and tell us how wonderful this bill is because they're not saying anything, Mr. Speaker. We've talked to this bill - I don't know how many different ways I can say it. (Interruption)

[Page 2278]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable member for Pictou East has the floor.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Finally we got a little bit of a rise out of the government to try to support their own bill and speak to their own bill.

We've talked on this bill, Mr. Speaker, I don't know if we've talked 16 or 18 hours on this bill so far, but we haven't heard anything from somebody over there. I hope somebody over there will stand up - when I take my place maybe somebody over there will stand up and say why this is a wonderful bill.

I think somebody will stand up and say this is a wonderful bill - is it going to happen today, Mr. Speaker? Do you think somebody might stand up and say, we're with the Minister of Energy on this one, for these reasons? Nobody stands up and talks to us. So here we sit, Bill No. 6 puts a question mark and causes a lot of uncertainty. (Interruption)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Please proceed.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Thank you. I'm just going to get to the good stuff, Mr. Speaker. Let me spend my last 10 minutes talking about the issues with Bill No. 6 and the message it sends. Bill No. 6 sends the message that we don't want onshore energy development in this province. There's no other message that could possibly be perceived from this bill, other than we don't want it.

Now why are we sending that message, Mr. Speaker? Are we sending that message because we have enough development in the offshore and we don't have time to focus on the onshore? Why are we sending a message that we don't want any more onshore energy investment? We have companies here exploring for coalbed methane and they're showing promising results, and now they need to finance those operations. If you are a company involved in onshore exploration in the Province of Nova Scotia and you go to possible investors and you say folks, I've got a great project here, it's in Nova Scotia, the first thing your possible investor is going to do is he's going to hand up a piece of paper and say, hold on, excuse me, isn't that the government that prohibits onshore development? How would you like to have that conversation take that U-turn on you, Mr. Speaker?

Do you think it's not harming investment in onshore exploration in Nova Scotia? It's a fool's game to think that you're not harming investment in onshore Nova Scotia, because you absolutely are; it's impossible to say otherwise. The Energy Department's own website says this decision will not impact investments. How in the world could the Department of Energy think that they have the authority to understand what might have happened, what a company might have been looking at doing? All of sudden the department says, well, we know that nobody was planning on doing investment here and so therefore it's not impacted. That's just silly.

[Page 2279]

That's the first thing Bill No. 6 does - it sends a message that we don't want onshore energy investment in this province. We don't want it. Why? Do we not need it? With $15 billion of debt, with roads that can't be fixed, with hospitals that can't staff emergency rooms, with seniors who need some financial assistance and need some help - we don't need to raise any more money? We're fine, we're good where we are? (Interruption)

We're hearing lots from the government side now and I really hope that when I take my place they stand up and speak to this bill. I hope that they have the courage to stand up and go on the record and tell me why they think this bill is great, because they're not saying too much about it.

The second thing Bill No. 6 does - Bill No. 6 ignores the sustainable development recommendations from the Wheeler report - absolutely ignores them. The Wheeler commission went around, they held meetings all around the province, they listened to Nova Scotians, they put their time and energy into developing a report which they gave to the minister who, after three days, decided he didn't need the report -it didn't matter what the report said, he's going to ban it.

The panellists from the Wheeler commission are coming out and saying, well, hold on a second, that's not what we said; that's not what our recommendation was. But it matters not to this government what anyone on the Wheeler commission says, it matters not what Nova Scotians say, it only matters what they want to do. What they want to do and they want to force this through and we're going to live with the ramifications of this. Nova Scotians have to live with the impact of Bill No. 6, Bill No. 60, Bill No. 51 - we can go on and on about the things that go on through this House and get pushed through and, meanwhile, what's happening to the lives of ordinary Nova Scotians.

Is life getting better for ordinary Nova Scotians? Mr. Speaker, I wonder what you're seeing as you travel around and talk to people. People are struggling in this province and our government is saying we're not interested in looking at new ways of doing things; we're not interested in new opportunities; we are just fine where we are and we don't want to raise and revenues from our own accord.

Where would we be without the federal transfer payments we receive? Where would we be? One of the government members was telling me the other day that our debt to GDP is on par with that of Greece. What happened to Greece? If we didn't have the federal transfer payments coming in, where would we be? (Interruption) We can talk about whether that's a true statement about Greece or whether it's not a true statement, but the fact of the matter is this is not a rich province. We can haggle over details, but we are not a wealthy province. We are a province that is struggling. And where would we be if not for our neighbors in other provinces contributing to the transfer payment system and sending money to us?

[Page 2280]

We can say that we're not Greece or we're not whatever, but that doesn't make us better; it doesn't change our circumstances. What we need is an idea to change our circumstances. We need a government that says, okay, we accept the situation, but this is what we're going to do to change it. We don't see anything happening to better our circumstances, especially not with Bill No. 6.

Where is the wisdom? Where is the wisdom in saying, we have a thriving economy and we don't need to look at new ideas? I think that's what's happening here. We hear the minister talking about different projects, and I even hear some members from the back hollering out about $2 billion investments in the offshore and all this type of stuff. So are we fine?

I would love to take those members with me to talk to Nova Scotians about why everything is just great in this province and we don't need to even consider any new ideas. We don't even need to think about it. We get the Wheeler report, and within three days we say no, we're good, thank you very much, we don't need to look at any new ways, we're good right here where we are.

Well, I'm not feeling good where we're at. I'm pretty concerned about where this province is. As much as it thrills me and honours me to know that the members opposite are reading my blog that I post, I just hope they take a little bit of guidance from it. Maybe they might find a little nugget of something in there that they want to pursue.

I was saying last night that if you look at every great company, somewhere in there a decision was made early on by a courageous person to take that company forward. I would love to see a courageous decision from this government, because so far what we're seeing is that this government will take legislation from other areas and try to ram it through this House without thinking about the impact on Nova Scotians.

With those few words, I will take my place. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Acting Leader of the New Democratic Party on an introduction.

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to draw the attention of members of the House to the east gallery, where we're joined today by a member of the municipal government in the Strait region, Mr. Bert Lewis. I'd ask him to stand and people to give him a warm welcome. (Applause)

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

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to again rise to address Bill No. 6, which I think is a very faulty bill. When I think about what we've done this past year in this Legislature, I believe that five or maybe 10 years from now, when we look back or when the pundits look back, they will see that the two most significant pieces of business to come through this House will have been the bill to amalgamate the district health authorities and this bill.

[Page 2281]

It's unfortunate, but I believe this bill is very significant for the future of our province. If I think about the two bills, I think, well, you had a mandate to do the district health authorities bill, the government did it in significant opposition - significant support too, but a controversial bill. You showed a great deal of courage to do that bill, I believe, and as you know, we supported that bill. That was in our mandate to do it. How that will all turn out for the amalgamation of the district health authorities remains to be seen.

But I believe this bill is a very short-sighted bill that will be seen in the future to have been a bill that lacked courage and did not take the province in the direction it needed to go, for all the reasons that have already been stated.

If I think about issues that I have with this bill, for one thing, it's a very short bill. A one-page bill over something this significant to our province is kind of mindboggling to me. I compare it in my mind to the bill to amalgamate the Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission Act. That was a two-page bill, double the amount of content that this bill had. I realize they are different things, and there are some constituents for whom the Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission Act is very significant, but to me this is a much more significant bill.

As we've already stated, there are a number of problems with the bill that have satisfied neither side of this debate on hydraulic fracturing in the province. What does it mean - high-volume has not been defined. Does that mean that medium-volume and low-volume hydraulic fracturing are permitted? The minister has not clarified that, has not clarified the meaning of high-volume. I understand that will supposedly be forthcoming. Another very, very significant issue with this bill is that it does not clarify issues such as sandstone. Is sandstone fracturing permitted? This is specific to shale. Who knew, but apparently there is hydraulic fracturing in sandstone.

Again, I would say this is a hastily conceived bill over an extraordinary subject to our province. I believe it is incumbent upon us as a province to take our role in the Canadian economy. We see the provinces that have embraced this new technology have succeeded.

Now, I believe we have many important industries in Nova Scotia that will, I hope, do well in the future, but this is a significant one in that it has the ability, to quote the Ivany report - the term, I know the Ivany report didn't quote this, but the term - this has a possibility to be a game-changer, this onshore hydraulic fracturing. I believe it's something that we as a province need to take a much more significant look at than a one-page bill with a moratorium.

[Page 2282]

We need in this province where we have so many people going out West to work in this industry. Every day, planeloads of people - and not just our young people; as I know many of you know, we have people who are in their 60s taking the red-eye out to Alberta and Saskatchewan to work. It's a very significant change in our province. I believe for those reasons it's something that we need to have a much more sustained looked at than a one-page bill.

I believe that this bill will have a chilling effect on industry. It sends a message about Nova Scotia to the industry across Canada, the resource-based industry, which is a very unfortunate message. I know that it's easy to say, well, this is just specific to one sector and that doesn't apply or matter for the other sectors. That's one way of looking at that.

But I know that in the farm community, even though I'm a vegetable farmer and a summer savory farmer, if something happens that affects mink farmers or dairy farmers, I'm aware of it. I think that's just the same way as in the resource industry sectors. The messages that government sends are heard far broader than just the specific sector, and the closed-for-business message that this bill sends to industry across Canada has to be considered. I know that it's not possible to define that, but you have to wonder about that when you look at the bid situation for offshore that just happened. Is that industry sending a signal?

One of the things that I think you have to appreciate - in my business, Farmer John's Herbs, we've had the opportunity to deal with these very big companies like - and I don't know if I should mention them, but - the huge grocery chains. I only ever interacted at a very, very low level in that chain, but significant - the buyers - and even in international chains in this country and the buyers in that. I had the opportunity to even go into the head office of Walmart in Toronto, for example.

When you go in to deal with those people at that level, you have to appreciate just how much pressure they're under. There they are; they want you to make this simple, straightforward and quick. One of those people in that position would be dealing with 70, 80 or 90 emails a day, all of them important. Maybe a couple hundred text messages a day, all of them important. There would be voicemail messages every day. The amount of stress and pressure they are under in the retail grocery sector is just kind of mind-boggling.

I would suggest to you that that exists in the resource sector, too, that those individuals across the country, who are making these decisions on where they should invest their money, are all under this kind of pressure, which is really an unbelievable amount of pressure in those high-level positions in these resource sector companies. That is why I say that small signals have a big effect on them. That's why I believe it's very unfortunate that this bill has the term "moratorium" in it. It sends a very negative signal.

[Page 2283]

These individuals who are doing this type of investment just don't have time to fool around with jurisdictions that don't want to do business with them. They take that signal and they go off in another direction. You may appreciate that in a country like Canada, for a resource-based company, there are opportunities in many different places. For them to decide well, we'll go and work - if they have the signal that they are not welcome in Nova Scotia, they are taking that signal.

I believe there is a very significant negative part of this bill that is sending the signal to the resource sector industry across the nation that we are closed for business. Mr. Speaker, I mentioned there are, I believe, very big gaps in what this should say. If you think about - as I mentioned previously - the environmental side of this, those who would have no hydraulic fracturing in the province are not happy with this either as there are big gaps in what this legislation permits and doesn't permit.

As I said, I believe the fact that it's a moratorium on hydraulic fracking will have a chilling effect on investment in the province, even though I know the minister has indicated that there will be types of hydraulic fracking that will be permitted. I understand coal bed hydraulic fracking is one of them.

I just think that this is a very, very unfortunate bill. I believe it will be the signature bill. Along with the DHAs Act, this was the signature bill of this sitting of the Legislature, probably this past year; a bill that is closing down our province for investment in the resource sector generally, I think, not only in the oil and gas sector; a bill that is telling our hard-working citizens who are going out West that you had better start thinking about moving your family out there because nothing is happening here any time soon.

It is a bill that is telling our young people who are studying pipefitting and petroleum engineering and all those things, well you had better start thinking about going out West. That whole trend has been a very disturbing trend and it has even reached into my neighbourhood. I just think of a week and a half ago when I was here for the Canadian Parliamentary Association and the Speaker of the House in Saskatchewan said to me, you know what John? We don't mind when we have the head of a family coming out to Saskatchewan to work because we know that after about a year of that they're going to get tired of that and the wife is going to say, are you married to me or what? She is going to say they are going to make a decision as a family to move out there.

We see that happening. People can only tolerate this long-distance work setup for so long, some of them, anyway; some people have tolerated it for a remarkably long time but a lot of people can tolerate it for only a certain amount of time, when the stress on the family becomes too large and they make that decision to move right out West. This is what we are seeing.

It's this industry that is pulling them out there, hydraulic fracturing. It is an opportunity. I mean, go figure, according to the Wheeler report we have the opportunity to do this in Nova Scotia. It is predicted that there is - and I realize this is uncertain, but with a moratorium we'll likely never know - it is predicted that in one of the basins there's 69 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. It is an opportunity that is there waiting for this government to go forward with.

[Page 2284]

I say it's still not too late for this government to change its mind on this. I think that just as the government clearly showed a lot of courage in the Health Authorities Act that went forward against considerable opposition, but I believe pursued what, in fact, was the right thing to do, I think you can do it again on this bill too. I would encourage you to think about that. It is something that would take courage to go forward but simply just adopting the Wheeler commission recommendation on Page 5 to go slow would be the right thing to do, to go forward slowly.

I heard the minister mention in the House about lawsuits in Alberta and I want to talk about lawsuits. There are apparently 15 million Americans who live within one mile of a natural gas well, a fracked well, and in America that has triggered in, 2012, 1,000 complaints. If you think about that, that's fairly significant and I don't want to minimize that. If you have an industry it's very possible that there are participants, as there are in every industry, there are participants who don't follow the rules; it's very possible there are companies that are not good corporate citizens.

There may well be, it's highly likely, in fact I would say there are a certain amount of these lawsuits that are entirely legitimate for companies that did not follow the rules. There's also another category of a situation where there's simply an accident which triggers a lawsuit or something that happened accidently or, in fact, an accident. There would probably be a certain number of these that would be, as my friend in Alberta said, the politics of envy where someone thinks I'm not participating in the wealth coming from this but maybe I can say that I got - maybe the cow died and I can say I think it's because of this and take the oil and gas company to court.

I know from my time on the board of directors of the Kings Mutual Insurance Company that there are many lawsuits happening all the time for many reasons, and for a government to suggest that the reason they will not permit hydraulic fracturing is because of lawsuits in Alberta, I don't believe is a credible argument.

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : I never said that.

MR. LOHR « » : I thought you did say that, sorry.

I realize the minster is replying back to me, but in fact that's what I thought I heard and if that was not correct, I apologize to the minister.

I would like to suggest to the minister that I have a constituent in Kings North who has a lawsuit right now, this government - and we brought this issue to the floor - is pursuing against my constituent. I don't think that the Province of Alberta would come and look at the department of social services and think, well, they're doing a lawsuit, so that tells us something about our policy. I would hope that the fact that there are lawsuits in other jurisdictions does not necessarily inform this government's policy on this issue.

[Page 2285]

The fact of the matter is, as I would say from a - if we look at the oil and gas industry that we have in Nova Scotia right now the oil delivery, the furnace oil delivery truck is a very familiar sight in our province. I can tell you that all of the above-ground effects that the Wheeler commission suggests could happen with fracking probably are happening right now with the oil delivery guy. I had a constituent in Kings North who had a full barrel of oil in her basement and had the oil delivery guy come on a routine stop and put in double the amount of fuel needed in that tank and that all filled her basement. That triggered - fortunately it was not on the books of Kings Mutual but that triggered a good $500,000 worth of damage and I'm sure her insurance company did something called subrogation, where they would take that issue to court and get the oil delivery liability insurance to pay for that.

All the time there are lawsuits happening, and that's just our society's way of sorting out differences. As I said, apparently in 2012 with 15 million Americans living within one mile of a fracked natural gas well, there were 1,000 complaints. At the same time, in 2014, apparently across the United States there were 300,000 civil lawsuits. We know that in that country there's a lot of litigation happening all the time and actually the ratio for 15 million to 1,000 is less than probably the ratio of nearly 400,000 lawsuits in a country of 350 million. I would suggest it is just about on par with the average there on that. The fact that there are lawsuits happening is, I believe, not a reason. I understand the minister just said that, but that's not a reason for us to not look at this.

The Wheeler report, which says go forward slowly, lists a number of different hazards with hydraulic fracturing. I think it's instructive to talk about what these hazards are. I don't believe that in the public mind, the public has these hazards really accurately understood. The term "fracturing" refers to what happens down underground, 1,000 metres or more underground.

This is one area where, in fact, legislation would be very useful - to define how shallow or how deep hydraulic fracturing could happen. I understand that has been an issue in Alberta, where sometimes hydraulic fracturing has happened in very, very shallow circumstances. That would be one area where I would hope the minister would provide guidance to the industry here. If we think about - I know in our area, if you have a well that is more than 600 feet deep, you went pretty deep. In our area, we can tap into the aquifer, which is a fantastic aquifer in the Annapolis Valley with very, very substantial and very useful water within 200 feet. We can tap into that.

In many cases, the fracking is happening as far down as 10,000 metres, which is 30,000 feet, in Saskatchewan and Alberta. But certainly we would want to see that at, I would say, nothing less than 1,000 metres, which is 3,000 feet, which is substantially down below the level of the water table.

[Page 2286]

What the Wheeler report lists as the risks associated with fracking that are underground - there are two risks. Both are listed as rare, and I think that with over 100,000 wells fracked in Canada, to my knowledge, no incidents, maybe we could even say exceedingly rare that the well bore would leak or that there would be, in the horizontal aspect of the fracture, a leak up through. Both of these are listed as exceedingly rare and, certainly with well integrity, are relatively easily to deal with.

However, the Wheeler commission report goes on to list 16 or 17 different circumstances that can happen above ground, all of them listed as certain to happen. Even though the public, I think in their imagination will believe that this is all underground, the issues are actually above ground. Not to be minimized, I believe (Interruptions) No, I'm not arguing that. Not to be minimized, I believe that all of these things need to be the subject of good regulation, which is part of going forward slowly as the Wheeler commission has said, not a moratorium - or as the Wheeler commission said, a political device. I called it a moratorium.

I believe that we need to go forward slowly. We have the opportunity in this province to cherry-pick the legislation around the country - in fact across North America - and look at best practices and have the best legislation possible that is applicable to our circumstances. Maybe the geology of Saskatchewan or Alberta is not the same, I presume, as the geology of Nova Scotia. I'm quite positive it isn't actually. Maybe we're more similar to the geology of some of the New England States.

In fact, I had the opportunity a number of years ago of actually visiting a Saskatchewan potash mine. We went down below ground 1,000 feet, travelled horizontally for a couple of miles to the face of a potash mine. It was one of the most riveting tours I ever did. After we were out of that, I said, I think I should write them a letter and say, don't tour anybody down there, it's not safe. It was fascinating, but as I know this House knows, Saskatchewan has a huge area that is an ancient seafloor down 1,000 feet. It's very salty. It's under that that this oil and shale that they are able to export is.

So as I was saying, there are a number of effects listed that are above-ground effects. I believe that all of these, including the below-ground effects and the above-ground effects, need to be the subject of legislation. But in fact, when you look at the above-ground effects, by and large, they are the same above-ground effects that would happen with our diesel fuel industry, our furnace oil industry, all of the gas industry certainly, I'm sure that most of them would be similar to the compressed natural gas industry - all of the other things that we accept.

What are those above-ground effects? They are increased traffic in rural areas damaging the roads when maybe the infrastructure to allow an industry like that to come in is not adequate. That's certainly happened. There's friction because of that increased traffic. Local people don't like that increased traffic. That's an issue that has to be dealt with. There are social issues where suddenly there's newfound wealth in someone's hand and not in another. That is an issue.

[Page 2287]

There is the whole issue of the storage and containment and treatment of the fracking waste water. I do believe that there are ways of dealing with that. Certainly it can be dealt with better than it has been. This should not just be left in a tailings pond for years. We can have better regulations than we've had, the way that we've dealt with it up until now. I believe that there are ways that we can go forward with that and that needs to be studied, but that is all part of that go-forward-slowly equation that we need to be thinking about as a province.

The Wheeler report addresses it again. Below-ground, one of the issues, one of the things people fear, is that their well water will be impacted by natural gas. The Wheeler report states that this is not a legitimate fear. We know from the fact that there are hundreds of thousands of wells in North America now that have natural gas naturally occurring within them that have nothing to do with any oil and gas industry effect, that it just happens.

In fact, if you want to see a really interesting video of one of those water wells that has the effect of being able to have a match lit to it, you just have to look at Josh Fox's video, because that effect was present at that well before there was ever any hydraulic fracturing in that community. When he was challenged on that, he said he was aware of that, but it wasn't relevant. How that wasn't relevant is a mystery to me, because that was the compelling point of triggering public fear, but in fact that was naturally-occurring gas in that area. There are apparently hundreds of thousands of places across North America where this occurs, so it was not related to the hydraulic fracturing that had occurred in that area. It was a very unfortunate piece of misinformation that was very well used by the documentary maker and it was really unfortunate.

One of the comments the minister had made in passing was that the Wheeler report mentioned effects on agriculture. I studied the Wheeler report quite carefully to see those effects. There were comments made by presenters to the - one of them, I believe, by a woodlot owner - and previously in the House, I drilled down into the statistics of agriculture in Pennsylvania and North Dakota between 2007 and 2012. I was able to show that in nearly every significant agricultural statistic, those two states had seen an increase to the positive, including total acres of farms, gross sales and land value. Land value in North Dakota had doubled between 2007 and 2012.

The agricultural economy tracks a little bit differently than the regular economy. If you think about what happened in 2008 in the United States, there was a huge decrease in property values. I don't even think that you could say that by 2012, it had fully recovered. For agricultural land to have doubled in value in a state in that time, shows clearly that whatever happened in that state, there was no detrimental effect to the agriculture industry that could be attributed to hydraulic fracturing in the state.

[Page 2288]

We could have looked at other states that did not have that. Some of them, not all of them, had positive growth and those two states did. I speculated at the time that probably if farmers have a little bit more money in their pocket, one of the things they do is they invest in the productive assists of the farm. That would be one of the explanations that little bit more money in the rural economies would trigger farmers to grow a little bit more crop.

Another factor that happened was simply the rise in the value of some of the grains in that 2007 to 2012 period across the globe. One of the things that we know in the agriculture community is that while it's quite academic for us if bread goes from $2.49 to $2.99, the price in the grocery store, in fact, in that time frame, the Arab Spring was probably triggered by the increase in the cost of wheat and grains across the globe. That was probably a factor in all of those states - the rebound - and I think that if I had been able to draw up that data, you could have said the same thing for Saskatchewan and Alberta.

Certainly we saw that here in Nova Scotia down in the Annapolis Valley that the increase in the price of soya beans actually had a factor in land prices increasing in the Annapolis Valley. Those are the effects that you can have but I say that to show that despite the fact that the Wheeler report makes a passing reference, where someone made a comment, I do not believe that the USDA Agriculture statistics bear that out that, in fact, there was a negative impact on agriculture in Pennsylvania and in North Dakota.

That's not to say that, again going back to the Wheeler report's analysis of surface effects that there weren't some companies that are simply bad actors that shouldn't be there that didn't do things. There certainly are local effects, or there aren't accidents or there aren't things that happen. That's just life. Stuff like that does happen and those things can be dealt with through the judicial system and there is recognition of that.

We accept those types of risks all the time. Anytime you get on the highway you are accepting a certain amount of risk that you could be in an accident and you could have a legal effect, or when you get on an airplane you are accepting the fact that there could be somebody who could make a mistake putting fuel in the tank and maybe your airplane is going to run out of fuel.

Industry is always struggling to try to provide a higher level of safety and that is where government and regulations come in, and not the government saying no to a sector like this, which I think is extremely unfortunate. It is the role of government to provide the regulatory framework that provides a clear path forward for these industries to go ahead. That is why I think this is such an unfortunate bill because it slams a door on it, sends a signal to resource industries across Canada about the attitude of the government here in Nova Scotia and is not the right way forward.

[Page 2289]

It's the role of government to do the hard work - as I will say I see that you are doing in the Health Authorities Act - to do that hard work to try and get it right and to go forward. As I said, I believe this will end up being one of the two hallmark bills of this sitting that will be remembered and it is very unfortunate that a one-page, hastily conceived bill will be that bill.

I talked previously about my friends across Canada. One of the things that I have had the privilege of doing is being involved in an international agriculture association, which was set up in 1950 in the U.K. by Lord Nuffield, who was William Morris, maker of the Morris Car. He was the Henry Ford of England. He believed that communism in 1950 was going to take over the world. He was vastly wealthy and created a huge number of endowments. If you Google that word Nuffield, you won't find our Canadian Nuffield agriculture association simply because it is buried in so many hits of so many different things in the U.K. and around the world.

One of the things he did was create the opportunity, in the beginning, for people from the Commonwealth to go to the U.K. and study farming. One of the early adopters, who I know the member for Kings West would know, Fred Walsh, who I believe was a Nuffield Scholar in 1961 - and actually, he was the reason that I did this program, too. Fred was the instigator for triggering me to do it in 1997-98.

In the course of doing that international study, which I did in the U.K. and France and Germany and Holland, what I never expected was the ongoing relationship I would have with farmers across Canada who are participants in this charity, this agricultural scholarship. One of the results of that was that I came to know different farmers across the country on a personal basis, and not necessarily exactly in my sector either. We always tend to know the people in our own sector better. But that has been a privilege.

I mention that because I was able to call my friends across the prairies about fracking in their provinces, and was there any agricultural impact in their province? I want to just again briefly mention my three farmers who I did call. One was in southern Ontario, and he had a used gas well on his farm - he actually had a couple. They were from the 1950s, and they did not provide an economic amount of natural gas, and they actually were - in fact, one of them was abandoned. He said to me, John, we had the liability so we thought we might as well have the benefit. So even though there was a very small amount of natural gas coming out of those wells, he was able to heat - since the 1950s or 1960s, when they set it up, until this day they've been able to heat two homes, two barns, and a shed every winter, and run their grain dryer in the summer.

It's easy to conceive that that would be, I'm sure, in the $30,000 or $40,000 worth of fuel every year from a gas well that no longer provided an economic amount of gas. So if and when we ever go forward with this hydraulic fracturing, I believe that the opportunity to have the landowner acquire the well after it no longer provides an economic amount of gas is something we should consider, or we should try and make provision for that, because it can be enormously valuable if these wells continue to provide gas.

[Page 2290]

One of the issues that Jack had in Blenheim, southern Ontario, was that their well had not produced as much. It was slowly declining, and they had to have it rejuvenated in a process that sounded a lot like fracturing to me, but they did successfully do that a couple of years ago. His area has a lot of these natural gas wells. He said there are other landowners who have access to them, too. I don't know how common it is, but certainly agriculture and natural gas in southern Ontario co-exist very nicely. He's farming some of the most valuable land in Canada.

One of the things he told me, he said, John, land has never given back in terms of what you could productively make off it. It has never been enough to pay for the land, but everyone who has ever bought it was able to sell it for more than they paid for it, and they always made money on it. This is in southern Ontario, again, in some of the most productive land in Canada.

I called my friend in Saskatchewan, who told me, when I did call him - this was shortly after Thanksgiving; actually, I think it was Thanksgiving night - they were just having their supper after having driven a combine all day. He was working for his neighbour, who had a 30,000-acre farm. He said that as far as he knew there was no negative impact from hydraulic fracturing in the farm community, and this from a farmer who is now retired. Ian McFadden is his name, very well-known in Saskatchewan. Again, when we had the CPA here, the Saskatchewan members, I said, I am a friend of Ian McFadden, and the members of the Assembly of Saskatchewan knew this guy. He's very well-known and very well-connected in the agricultural community in Saskatchewan, and would know what was going on in that province.

Finally I talked to my buddy from Alberta, who I did not realize was actually farming on a very intensely fracked piece of ground. He had a vegetable farm. He had 1,000 acres of vegetable land in Innisfail, Alberta, and I believe he told me he had 15 wells on that farm, which each take up about four acres. So his farm, the land that he was farming, was completely hydraulically fracked underneath. He didn't tell me the actual numbers of what he got for income, but I can tell you it was a very nice income stream. He said he was making anywhere from $900 to $2,500 an acre in royalty, you can imagine if you multiply that by 60, so he was making anywhere from a low of - if you gave me that range, then I wouldn't doubt that it was close to $100,000 a year income stream on this 1,000-acre farm. A very, very significant income stream for him.

I said, Rod, is there any impact? He said, well, they run pipelines under the ground and those become de facto rights-of-way, you can't build over top of them. He had some issues with these small pipes underneath his soil, meaning he could not build a barn in a certain area. But on a 1,000-acre farm, I'm sure you can appreciate there are places to find to build . . .

[Page 2291]

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : How many 1,000-acre farms are there in Nova Scotia?

MR. LOHR « » : There are quite a few. In response to the minister's question, I will tell the minister that we have, in Nova Scotia, which I realize spreads out over more than just Nova Scotia, in fact, the largest fruit farm in the world would be the Bragg Lumber operation which I believe covers 50,000 acres and is in fact the largest fruit farm in the world.

We do have a significant amount of agriculture in Nova Scotia and I don't have the statistics on how many 1,000-acre farms there are, but I can tell you in Alberta there are many farms that are larger. Nevertheless, my friend Rod Bradshaw's farm would count as a completely hydraulically fracked farm. He did tell me there were a couple of other effects associated with that - one was that these guys made excellent roads so he had very good roads on his farm and, obviously, the income stream.

I asked Rod about the general effect in the neighbourhood and he was the one who first mentioned to me what he called the politics of envy, where there seemed to be in that area some lawsuits just triggered by envy. Going back to my days with Kings Mutual Insurance I can tell you there is an astounding number of ways, mysterious ways that a cow can die and it seemed like every time we had a board meeting we were discussing strange new ways cows died. There would always be the possibility of someone trying to associate something negative that happened on their farm with the fact that there was hydraulic fracking in the area, which would be subject to debate.

One other thing that we know is that big oil companies don't fare well in jury situations, so lots of times they do payouts and it can't be taken as a sign that they saw that as a sign that they were guilty, it's just that they're playing the odds on that and figuring a payout is going to cost "x", defending is going to cost "x-plus 2" and our odds of winning are not even 50-50, so that's kind of the way these big oil companies look at these lawsuits.

Those are some of the effects in agriculture, the idea that the Wheeler report references agriculture is true, but it is simply a statement that is made by a presenter and is not presented in fact, not drilled down to in terms of rigorous research. I realize I didn't provide that either; I provided anecdotal research and simply looked at the raw statistics of two states, I realize that doesn't actually qualify for rigorous research, but I will say I think it is a little more in-depth than the anecdotal statements that are made in the Wheeler report. The whole area is something that would need to be subject to a little bit more rigorous research at that. I think it would be.

I think of the constituent I met who said, John, Nova Scotia can't regulate anything and we should just not even have anything to do with defending the moratorium that your government is presenting here. I don't believe there's actually - I think there's evidence to the contrary. I think we regulate many things very successfully as a government, but there is a crisis of public confidence in the government. I think that's true. If you think about the way we regulate the handling of garbage in this province, we are world class at regulating the way recyclables and garbage is handled. We can be justly very proud of that.

[Page 2292]

There are many other areas that this government regulates very effectively, and the idea that we are incapable of regulating something - I believe this constituent's statement is a fallacy and should not be taken as how things are doing. The reason I say that is, in my opinion, the government is baling out on regulating this industry. This is an easy way out, to put a moratorium on it and say, forget about it. It's just a huge mistake.

This industry is something that we desperately need in our province. It would be a game-changer if it went forward. It's not certain that it will go forward even if we provide the regulatory framework. That is all dependent upon what happens in the drilling phase, but the fact that it is potentially there, the fact that other provinces can see that Nova Scotia has the potential to try this and is baling out on it sends a negative statement across Canada about us as a government.

We see that British Columbia, and Alberta, and Saskatchewan have successfully done this, provided ongoing regulatory framework; that is something that we, as a Legislature, should be doing. The minister is, I believe, entirely misguided in this very short bill. It should be a bill providing a path forward that both satisfies the environmental concerns and provides a straightforward path forward for industry.

I believe, as the Wheeler report says, that we need to go slow. We have the opportunity to have world-class legislation in this, and we're bypassing that, and that's very, very unfortunate. Mr. Speaker, how much time do I have?

MR. SPEAKER « » : You're done at 1:08 p.m.

MR. LOHR « » : Better start triage here.

A MEMBER: You have so much to talk about.

MR. LOHR « » : I do have. Where do I want to go from here? When I presented those agricultural statistics from Pennsylvania and from North Dakota, there was a little bit of disappointment that I hadn't mentioned cabbage, and I do have a couple of cabbage statistics from Pennsylvania, so I'll give you those right now: increase in production from 2007 to 2010 - I can't provide you with 2012 - but in that time frame from 2007 to 2012, cabbage production actually increased in Pennsylvania. So cabbage was (Interruption) Were you going to say something, Mr. Speaker? I heard someone say order - I'm sorry, that wasn't you. Even my buddy behind me is upset with this bill, if you look at his dire expression, so I know that (Interruptions)

[Page 2293]

Mr. Speaker, I was talking about the fact that we have the opportunity to have world-class legislation and I just wanted to talk briefly about legislation in other jurisdictions. I know this government is very fond of saying, you can find it on the website, but if you were to go to the websites of Saskatchewan and Alberta, you would find very extensive legislation regarding hydraulic fracturing, and that legislation provides a framework for how the industry can go forward.

In fact, Saskatchewan is in the process right now of rewriting their legislation to what is called, results-based environmental legislation. It's not entirely clear to me what that means, but my point is that other jurisdictions in North America are grappling with how to provide a framework to put this legislation in effect. I think it's very clear that hydraulic fracturing has made an immense difference in North America.

I can tell you one difference it has made for the agricultural industry. Last year, in the Canadian prairies they had a record wheat crop, and one of the issues they had was that they were not able to get that wheat crop to market because the Canadian rails were not available because 20,000 - the amount of oil and gas being transported on the rail system in North America had just mushroomed.

One of the effects that we see of the whole fracking industry in North America is the fact that right now, we have declining oil and gas prices. Right now, if you think about what is happening in the globe, we should be looking at $150 to $200 a barrel oil by rights. Were it not for the change in the supply of unconventional oil and gas right now, I think it would be easy to say that we would be sitting in a situation with close to $200 a barrel gas with what is happening with ISIS in the Levant and the Middle East and what is happening in an area that we have traditionally relied on for oil and gas.

North America is nearly self-sufficient now. There has been a huge change. So rather than having $150 a barrel oil and gas right now, we have $70 a barrel oil and gas. If you look at what's happening in the Ukraine now, one of the dominant suppliers of oil and gas in the world is Russia. Were it not for the fact that we had our own domestic supply through this unconventional source, we would be at a turmoil in those countries - it is very unfortunate that that's going on there, but that turmoil would have pushed our prices through the roof.

Another thing that's happening - and again, this unconventional oil and gas and fracking has given us the opportunity to have natural gas. It is my belief that if we see in the future further development of natural gas, it is possible with the shutting down of coal plants or converting to natural gas that we could even get our salmon industry back, our salmon in our rivers. It's the sulphur content in the coal plants, in that coal, that has been giving us acid rain, and it's very clear that acid rain is the reason we no longer have salmon runs in Nova Scotia.

[Page 2294]

The possibility that natural gas will be there - and it's already happening in America. If we were to have natural gas here, the opportunity to use that in our coal-fired power plants would be very beneficial to the environment. Natural gas is a very, very clean-burning fuel. Many of you have been in hockey arenas throughout the province; often in those hockey arenas, you'll have a Zamboni powered by propane, which is a very close relative to natural gas. That unit burns so clean and if adjusted properly, which is a key factor, it burns so clean that you can run it in an arena full of people and have very little negative effect. Now if it's not adjusted properly, everyone will get a headache before too long.

This is an opportunity that natural gas gives us, which is an opportunity from fracking to get this unconventional gas, which is what is predicted to be here in Nova Scotia. We already see that industry in Nova Scotia, including our hospitals, are converting to compressed natural gas. So the interest in natural gas is huge.

The reason that interest is there is because of hydraulic fracturing, because that has provided North America with a very inexpensive source of natural gas. In fact, we see that the port facilities that were being built in North America to import compressed natural gas are now being set up to reverse that flow so we'll be able to export compressed natural gas. We went from having very little natural gas in North America, probably in 2006 or 2007, to now having the lowest prices in the globe for natural gas. We're having businesses like Michelin and Hostess Frito-Lay and our hospital and Acadia University in my area switching to compressed natural gas because of these very low prices, which is a benefit of hydraulic fracturing.

In fact, when I had a tour of the Acadia boiler plant that at that moment was being converted to - they already had part of it. As you can imagine in that big plant, they don't have just one big unit. They have, I think, three units so that they have a little bit of redundancy built in, so if there was a breakdown, the two units could cover for the one that wasn't working. They already had a couple of these units converted over to natural gas, and they discovered that even running them, they are 3 per cent more efficient, simply because natural gas doesn't put the same amount of soot in the air that the bunker C did, which was what they were running before, and that soot would cake the inside of that boiler unit and they would have to clean it out periodically. They estimated that alone was worth 3 per cent, let alone the maintenance.

The benefits of natural gas are huge. Our province is already in the process of switching to natural gas. We have the opportunity, if we were to go forward with hydraulic fracturing, if we were to change our mind on this, if the government were to take another look at this, we would have the opportunity to have our own made-in-Nova Scotia natural gas. It would mean that we could probably convert our coal plant to natural gas if we had enough. It would mean a cleaner environment. It would mean businesses like Acadia, Michelin and Pepsi - or Hostess Frito-Lay, which is Pepsi-Co, you understand - would be able to continue on with a low-cost fuel.

[Page 2295]

I hope that it means someday we will be able to have a pipeline in the Annapolis Valley. I think that one of the issues we have - and you could take this Wheeler report and overlay the issues right over top of the compressed natural gas industry and other than the two risks that are subsurface, you could probably take almost all those other risks and put them on compressed natural gas, other than the waste water risk.

What is the risk of having these trucks on the road? I understand something like the Acadia plant has three compressed natural gas trucks a day hooking up and delivering compressed natural gas, so there are risks there, but we accept that. We need to go forward with this made-in-Nova Scotia industry, as the Wheeler report says, to go slow - not just wash our hands of it as a government, but to provide the regulatory framework to be able to go forward in a way that makes sense, to go slow, to establish whether in fact we do have that resource, to be able to have the community engagement to be able to get the social licence, and to be able to get the buy-in so that we could have this industry in our area.

We have so many constituents in each one of our constituencies who are already participating in this natural gas and hydraulic fracturing out West. I think of my constituent who I met a couple of mornings ago, named Rory, who had been working out West, and he was actually working in the waste water business in Alberta. He was telling me about the regulations that they follow out there, fairly elaborate comprehensive regulations. I think that is something that we, as a province, could be doing too.

Another thing that I wanted to address, Mr. Speaker, was the fact that we as a caucus had - and I'm sure that you had - received a number of people who had given information back, just like my friend Rory who gave me a verbal, there have been a number of Nova Scotians who believe that this is not the right direction. I realize that this is an ongoing debate in the province, and like I said, I think we need to move the social licence for this forward in a go-slow manner. Clearly this is a very anti-business bill that sends a very unfortunate signal.

Again, I'm going until - I have four more minutes? That's what I have? I have to think about what I want to sum up with - I better sum up. I don't know how I can sum up 56 minutes. (Interruptions)

I will sum up by saying that I believe it is the role of government not to just abandon the debate, but I believe the moratorium does that. It just puts a halt to the debate. I don't believe it is the role of the government to do that. I think it is the role of government to do things like the Wheeler report where we went around the province and we got a set of recommendations.

To go forward, I think it's the role of government to engage the public, to have the debate, to look at all of the issues and to go forward. I think that this bill sends a very, very unfortunate signal again across Canada. I think the opportunity is there for us to have world-class regulations, and we're not taking that opportunity. I think that we could be taking more time on this bill. I know we had an amendment to push the debate six months down the road and I spoke to that. I do believe that was the right thing to do. I think that this bill needs to be much better thought out to sort out the issues that those against the bill from both sides have with the bill.

[Page 2296]

These are reasons why this bill is not a good bill for this Legislature to pass. There needs to more time put in for all the definitions. It has been very clearly pointed out that the minister has not really provided the answers. The definitions in the bill need to be there. Most of the bills that we see before the House do have definitions. I know the minister has said that those will show up in the regulations, but when there are such glaring deficiencies in the bill, in a one-page bill, I think that this bill is clearly not the right bill for this province. This unfortunately will be a bill that will be remembered. It is a watershed moment in our province, I think, and by that I mean that after this bill, everything will be different until we have a government that is pro-business on all those things.

Mr. Speaker, with those few words, I will take my seat.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Deputy Speaker.

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that we adjourn debate on Bill No. 6.

AN HON. MEMBER: Recorded vote.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is to adjourn debate on Bill No. 6. There has been a call for a recorded vote. We will ring the bells for how long? (Interruption) We will ring the bells for one hour.

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise on a point of order. When the initial request for the recorded vote was called, in fact, only one person actually stood and verbally asked for that recorded vote. It was not until sometime after that a second person actually verbalized that request. All of us saw it over here.

MR. SPEAKER « » : On the point of order, the honourable House Leader for the Official Opposition.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Had the minister not been standing in view of the member for Northside-Westmount, I would say that he's incorrect in that, that two people did call for a recorded vote on that one. (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : There were two people who rose on the call for a recorded vote, so we'll ring the bells for one hour. The House will resume at 1:09 p.m. (Interruptions)

[Page 2297]

Pardon me. The House will resume at 2:09 p.m.

Ring the bells. Call in the members.

[1:09 p.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

[2:08 p.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. A recorded vote has been called for.

Are the Whips satisfied?

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[2:09 p.m.]

YEAS	NAYS
Mr. Colwell	Mr. MacLeod
Mr. Churchill	Mr. MacMaster
Ms. Bernard	Mr. Dunn
Mr. Samson	Mr. Baillie
Ms. Whalen	Mr. d'Entremont
Ms. Casey	Mr. Corbett
Mr. MacLellan	Mr. David Wilson
Mr. Younger	Ms. Zann
Mr. Horne	Mr. Belliveau
Mr. Hines	Mr. Orrell
Mr. Stroink	Ms. MacFarlane
Ms. Arab	Mr. Houston
Mr. Delorey	Mr. Harrison
Mr. Ince	Mr. Lohr
Mr. Kousoulis
Mr. Furey
Mr. Farrell
Mr. Gordon Wilson
&Mr. Rankinnbsp;
Ms. Miller
Mr. Rowe

[Page 2298]

Ms. Eyking
Ms. Lohnes-Croft
Mr. Gough
Mr. Jessome
Mr. Irving
Mr. Porter

THE CLERK « » : For, 27. Against, 14.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is carried.

The honourable Government House Leader.

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

[2:14 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Ms. Margaret Miller in the Chair.]

[7:32 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Ms. Margaret Miller in the Chair.]

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:

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

Bill No. 64 - Limitation of Actions Act.

which was reported with certain amendments by the Committee on Law Amendments to the Committee of the Whole House without further amendments, and the chairman has been instructed to recommend this bill to the favourable consideration of the House.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : Ordered that this bill be read for a third time on a future day.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Madam Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and that the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

[7:33 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Ms. Margaret Miller in the Chair.]

[11:58 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Ms. Margaret Miller in the Chair.]

[Page 2299]

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole on Bills reports:

THE CLERK « » : That the committee has met, has made some progress, and begs leave to sit again.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Madam Speaker, that concludes the government's business for today. We'll meet again on Wednesday, November 12^th, from the hours of 12:00 noon until 11:59 p.m. After Opposition Day we will continue with third reading of Bill Nos. 6, 51, and 64, and Committee of the Whole House on Bill No. 60.

I'll now ask the House Leader for the Official Opposition to give us the Opposition business for Wednesday.

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : After the daily routine and Question Period we'll be calling Bill No. 20, Buy Nova Scotia First Act; Bill No. 56, Strengthening and Preservation of Community Buildings Act; and No. 57, the Elections Act.

I move we do now rise to meet again on Wednesday at 12:00 noon.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House now rise to meet again on November 12^th between the hours of 12:00 noon and 11:59 p.m.

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

There has been a request for a recorded vote.

Ring the bells. Call in the members.

[12:01 a.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The House will come to order.

We are doing a recorded vote on the Adjournment motion. I would ask all members of the House to once again please be very silent as we do the recorded vote.

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[Page 2300]

[1:00 a.m.]

YEAS	NAYS
Mr. Colwell	Mr. Dunn
Mr. Churchill	Mr. d'Entremont
Mr. Samson	Mr. Harrison
Ms. Whalen
Mr. MacLellan
Mr. Hines
Mr. Stroink
Ms. Arab
Mr. Delorey
Mr. Ince
Mr. Kousoulis
Mr. Farrell
Mr. Gordon Wilson
Mr. Rankin
Mr. Rowe
Ms. Eyking
Ms. Lohnes-Croft
Mr. Gough
Mr. Jessome
Mr. MacLeod
Mr. Baillie
Mr. Orrell

THE CLERK « » : For, 22. Against, 3.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The motion is carried.

We meet again November 12^th at 12:00 noon.

[The House rose at 1:03 a.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 2301]

RESOLUTION NO. 668

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Pizza Delight Mosquito AA Gateways baseball team has been inducted into the Yarmouth Town and Country Sports Heritage Association Hall of Fame; and

Whereas the Mosquito AA Gateways won the Atlantic AA Mosquito title in 2013; and

Whereas the team's Max Nickerson was selected tournament MVP and Teegan Scott was selected as top pitcher;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate this team on its induction and wish it continued success on and off the baseball field.

RESOLUTION NO. 669

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Macayla Cook of Yarmouth is the recipient of a special Rotary and Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High School award; and

Whereas this award is presented to a student who has made an outstanding contribution and commitment to school life; and

Whereas the members of this House recognize that it is students such as Macayla who represent our hopes for the future of our province;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Macayla Cook for having earned this award and wish her every success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 670

[Page 2302]

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Yarmouth Whitecaps Junior Swimming team performed admirably in the Provincial Swimming Championships; and

Whereas Josh Bower was the first place finisher in four events and was second in one event and third in another; and

Whereas medals were also won by Dylan Bower, Brandon Doucette, Andre d'Entremont, Kylie Bullerwell, Ian Bullerwell, Brock Emin and Drew Doucet;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate all members of the Yarmouth Whitecaps Swimming team on their very successful season and wish them continued success in their future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 671

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Sam Turpin of Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High School is the male recipient of the Lieutenant-Governor's Medal; and

Whereas Sam Turpin participates in numerous extracurricular activities; and

Whereas Sam Turpin consistently maintains high grades in French Immersion and several International Baccalaureate courses;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sam Turpin on having earned this prestigious award and wish him continued success in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 672

[Page 2303]

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Sandra Phinney of Yarmouth constituency has won several writing and photography awards during the past year; and

Whereas Sandra Phinney earned the Volunteer of the Year award from the Travel Media Association of Canada; and

Whereas Sandra has recently launched her new book, Maud Lewis and the Maudified House Project - The Story Starts Here;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sandra Phinney on her many achievements and wish her continuing success in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 673

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Pleasant Valley Lakers 50+ baseball team has been inducted into the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association Hall of Fame; and

Whereas the Lakers were founded only in 2009; and

Where the Lakers have already won two national championships;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Pleasant Valley Lakers on their induction into this hall of fame, and wish them success in this year's national championships.

RESOLUTION NO. 674

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Shanty Café in downtown Yarmouth has expanded as a self-sustainable social enterprise; and

[Page 2304]

Whereas the Shanty Café is part of the Yarmouth Association for Community Residential Options (YACRO); and

Whereas co-managers Michael Carbonell and Chris Quesnel are providing employment to numerous persons who might otherwise have difficulty finding employment;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the managers of the Shanty Café on their foresight and community spirit and wish them continued success in this worthwhile venture.

RESOLUTION NO. 675

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth singing group, the Shantymen, have marked their 30^th Anniversary; and

Whereas Eric Ruff, the group's director and founder, has performed throughout Nova Scotia, as well as in New Brunswick, Quebec, and Maine, and produced three CDs; and

Whereas the Shantymen have kept alive the tradition of sea shanties and have been excellent ambassadors for Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly thank the Shantymen for maintaining this musical tradition and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 676

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Yarmouth's Nate Bain Memorial Award was won this year by sprinter MacKenzie Munroe; and

Whereas MacKenzie Munroe won three gold medals at the Atlantic University Sport track and field championships; and

[Page 2305]

Whereas MacKenzie Munroe has been named captain of the St. Francis Xavier University track team;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate MacKenzie Munroe on his selection for the Nate Bain Memorial Award and wish him continuing success in his track career.

RESOLUTION NO. 677

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Kayla Mooney of Yarmouth has been inducted into the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Kayla, who is still in her teens, has participated in more than 50 skating competitions and won numerous medals; and

Whereas Kayla is also involved in other sports, including soccer, basketball, and track and field;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kayla on her induction into this hall of fame, and wish her continuing success as a figure skater.

RESOLUTION NO. 678

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Mike LeBlanc of Yarmouth has been inducted into the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Mike LeBlanc has excelled in several sports, including baseball, hockey, and soccer, since 1970, playing on numerous winning teams; and

Whereas Mike LeBlanc has been a highly successful coach of both hockey and soccer;

[Page 2306]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mike LeBlanc on his induction into the sports hall of fame, and wish him continuing success in his sports endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 679

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Eric Hurlburt has been inducted into the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association Hall of Fame; and

Whereas Eric Hurlburt has had a shooting career that spans more than 30 years; and

Whereas he has earned many rifle championships and had success as a shooting coach as well;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Eric Hurlburt on his induction into the hall of fame, and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 680

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Mandy Rennehan, who grew up in Yarmouth, has purchased for restoration the former jailhouse on Yarmouth's Main Street; and

Whereas Mandy Rennehan, a restoration designer, is the founder of Freshco Retail Maintenance Construction Ltd. In Oakville, Ontario; and

Whereas she will restore this 150-year old structure as a heritage property;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mandy Rennehan on her vision, and thank her for the contribution she is making to Yarmouth's downtown area.

RESOLUTION NO. 681

[Page 2307]

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Southwest Thunder won a silver medal at the Atlantic Group Peewee Minor Nova Scotia hockey tournament; and

Whereas the Southwest Thunder was the only team undefeated in the round robin competition; and

Whereas this team also won a silver medal at a tournament in Portland, Maine;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Southwest Thunder on their achievement during the past season.

RESOLUTION NO. 682

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High School girls rugby team have won their league championship; and

Whereas this was the girls ruby team's first year of competition; and

Whereas Coach Vanessa Gallant speaks highly of the team's passion and dedication;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the YCMHS girls rugby team and their coach on a successful season.

RESOLUTION NO. 683

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High School won their league's rugby championship; and

[Page 2308]

Whereas this is only the team's second season of league play; and

Whereas Coach Marius Gerber is impressed by the commitment of the boys to a sport that is new to many of them;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the YCMHS boys rugby team on their successful season.

RESOLUTION NO. 684

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Cody Bourque of Yarmouth won the 2014 Atlantic Youth Bowling Council championship; and

Whereas this is his fourth consecutive Atlantic Youth Bowling Council championship; and

Whereas, although still in his teens, Cody Bourque has already competed once in the men's world championships;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Cody Bourque on his continued success and offer good wishes for his future in the sport of bowling.

RESOLUTION NO. 685

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Morgan Allen of Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High School has earned the Lieutenant-Governor's Medal for 2014; and

Whereas Morgan is involved in numerous school activities, as well as highland dancing; and

Whereas Morgan maintains academic marks in the high 90s;

[Page 2309]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Morgan Allen on having earned this prestigious medal and wish her continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 686

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Susan Hutchins of Chebogue Point, Yarmouth County, is the first photographer to have her work displayed in the gallery of the Nova Star; and

Whereas Susan, a retired educator, has developed her photography hobby into a profession; and

Whereas her work is exhibited in various galleries;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Susan Hutchins on the success of her profession and wish her continued success

RESOLUTION NO. 687

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Bill Curry of Yarmouth constituency has recently had a photography exhibit at the Yarmouth County Museum; and

Whereas Bill Curry has been experimenting with and developing his craft of photography for 40 years; and

Whereas Bill Curry, a retired educator, has achieved wide recognition for his artistic talents;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bill Curry on his achievements and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 688

[Page 2310]

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Jeff Muise of Yarmouth has won Bicycle Nova Scotia's Provincial Championship; and

Whereas Jeff Muise maintained an average speed of 39 kilometres per hour over a 140 kilometre distance; and

Whereas Jeff Muise also won the New Brunswick Tour de Force Saint-Paul Road Race;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jeff Muise on his bicycle racing successes and wish him continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 689

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Brad Jones of Yarmouth has been chosen to be part of the 2015 Canada-Cuba Goodwill Tour to Cuba; and

Whereas this tour will provide a life-learning experience for these young baseball players; and

Whereas these teenagers represent our hope for the future;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brad Jones on his selection to this prestigious group and wish him success on his tour.

RESOLUTION NO. 690

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Fred Hatfield of Yarmouth has recently retired as Editor in Chief of the Vanguard weekly; and

[Page 2311]

Whereas Fred Hatfield joined the Vanguard staff at its founding in 1966; and

Whereas he has earned a lifetime achievement award from Newspapers Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Fred Hatfield for his contribution to journalism and wish him many years of well-earned retirement.

RESOLUTION NO. 692

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Natural Resources)

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

Whereas Bob Durkee of Yarmouth Country has been named recipient of the Jim Hatfield Memorial Award; and

Whereas Bob Durkee has been an ambassador for baseball in Yarmouth County during most of his 70 years; and

Whereas Bob Durkee has been a valuable member of many baseball teams over the years;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bob Durkee for having earned this prestigious award and wish him many more years as a baseball ambassador and a player.

RESOLUTION NO. 693

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Amanda Morrison of Millville placed second in the figure E division in the 2014 Bikini, Figure, Fitness and Physique National Championships in Edmonton; and

Whereas Ms. Morrison has and continues to train and challenge herself through fitness competitions as she balances a life as a new mom; and

Whereas Ms. Morrison can serve as a role model for others who seek to excel in fitness competitions and who maintain a high level of physical fitness;

[Page 2312]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Morrison on her achievements, and wish her success in her future.

RESOLUTION NO. 694

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Eveline MacLeod, a native of South Haven, published her book Celtic Threads: A Journey in Cape Breton Craft, co-authored with Professor Daniel MacInnes of St. Francis Xavier University, and officially launched the book at Colaisde na Gaidhlig/The Gaelic College, as part of KitchenFest! on July 3, 2014; and

Whereas Mrs. MacLeod, an avid weaver, shares in her book a lifetime of history, patterns, people and photographs of the tapestry, weaving and other fibre art and crafts of Cape Breton; and

Whereas Mrs. MacLeod and Mr. MacInnes' book and Mrs. MacLeod's weaving and teaching has made a significant contribution into preserving the history of fibre art and weaving in Cape Breton, as well as passing on the legacy to future generations;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the works of Mrs. MacLeod and Mr. MacInnes, and wish them continued success with their book and their pursuit of Cape Breton crafting.

RESOLUTION NO. 695

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas the Frenchvale Brook Walking Trail held an official opening on September 6, 2014; and

Whereas the 1,400 metre, non-motorized trail is a continuing project of Frenchvale and Area Community Endeavours, a volunteer community group; and

Whereas the trail will provide a safe place for residents to enjoy the beauty of the region and promotes healthy physical activity all year round;

[Page 2313]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly extend their thanks to the Frenchvale and Area Community Endeavours group for their work on this project, congratulate them on the opening of the trail, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 696

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Amanda Morrison and Carolyn MacAskill, both continuing care assistants, have recently launched their small business, Above and Beyond Home Care Services, out of Englishtown; and

Whereas Ms. Morrison and Ms. MacAskill recognized a need in their rural community for one-on-one home support and now offer personal care, transportation, companionship, respite, meal preparation, and housekeeping services to people in their community; and

Whereas this business endeavour supports positive aging and is representative of the entrepreneurial spirit needed in our communities;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Morrison and Ms. MacAskill on the launch of their new business, and wish them success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 697

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas John Paul, an 18 year old from Eskasoni First Nation, was the first person from his Community of Eskasoni to play football in the Canadian Interuniversity Sport League; and

Whereas Mr. Paul played his first CIS game for Saint Mary's University on September 12, 2014, as an interior defensive lineman; and

Whereas Mr. Paul serves as a role model to youth, as he has proven his desire to work hard to reach his potential both on and off the field;

[Page 2314]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication that it has taken for Mr. Paul to have reached this level of sport, and wish him success in his future

RESOLUTION NO. 698

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas an Age-Friendly Communities Conference was held in Baddeck on September 11 and 12, 2014, the first of its kind in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the conference organizing committee, the municipality, and the residents of Victoria County are working towards building communities that support people as they age; and

Whereas the conference brought together representatives from business, municipal governments, provincial agencies, care providers, and community members, to discuss the needs of the aging population;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the efforts of the organizing committee and conference participants in their work towards creating an atmosphere within their communities that is age-friendly, and extend our support as they continue their efforts.

RESOLUTION NO. 699

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Alyssa MacLeod of Boularderie has been named Miss Canada International 2014; and

Whereas Ms. MacLeod is a former patient and ambassador of Shriners Hospital for Children in Montreal, and has overcome and embraced challenges that she has faced; and

Whereas Ms. MacLeod will use her role as Miss Canada International 2014 to deliver her message: The Power of Perseverance - Encouraging children with disabilities to reach their dreams;

[Page 2315]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly recognize the achievements of Ms. Macleod, and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 700

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas on June 20, 2014, the Victoria County Courthouse celebrated its 125^th Anniversary; and

Whereas the Victoria County Courthouse is designated as home to the Victoria County Municipal Offices and as a Municipal Heritage Property; and

Whereas the courthouse is a valued part of Victoria County's history and is a landmark in that county;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly extend their congratulations to the Municipality of Victoria County on celebrating the 125^th Anniversary of the Victoria County Courthouse.

RESOLUTION NO. 701

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas St. Barra's Catholic Church, Christmas Island, celebrated their 200^th Anniversary this year, and marked the occasion on September 26, 2014, with a special mass and dinner; and

Whereas the Church had its beginnings in the early 1800s when approximately twenty families arrived from Barra and built a church just below the present cemetery; and

Whereas St. Barra's Parish has persevered for two hundred years, having had to rebuild on occasions due to fire, and has remained an integral part of the fabric of the community, having ninety families in the parish today;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the work of the anniversary organizing committee and members of St. Barra's Catholic Church, and congratulate them on celebrating such a momentous milestone.

[Page 2316]

RESOLUTION NO. 702

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Jessie Stone, a certified dispenser began her working career in the pharmacy at Stone's Drug Store in Baddeck in 1957; and

Whereas Ms. Stone has been a familiar and friendly face providing service at the pharmacy in Baddeck for over fifty years; and

Whereas Ms. Stone celebrated her retirement from her career at Stone's Pharmasave in Baddeck on May 28, 2014;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the many years of service Ms. Stone has devoted to the clients she has related to over the years, and wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement.

RESOLUTION NO. 703

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Graham MacKenzie, a pharmacist and owner of Stone's Pharmasave in Baddeck, stopped selling soft drinks and other sugary beverages at his store as of September 2014; and

Whereas Mr. MacKenzie has made a decision that fits for his business as he addresses growing calls for Canadians to drastically cut the amount of sugar they consume, for the betterment of their health; and

Whereas Mr. MacKenzie is an example of a business owner and operator who feels a responsibility to his community to educate and support them in making healthy choices;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the efforts of Mr. MacKenzie for making business decisions that help to promote healthy choices, and wish him the best of luck in future.

[Page 2317]

RESOLUTION NO. 704

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Boularderie School was awarded the Norm Connors Healthy School Award by the Cape Breton District Health Authority on September 15, 2014; and

Whereas this award recognizes and supports schools in Cape Breton that promote healthy eating, active living, healthy growth, mental health, personal safety, and injury prevention; and

Whereas Boularderie School has a breakfast program, Fruit-o-licious Fridays, numerous sports available to their students, a Healthy Active Living program, an active sensory room, yoga, reading challenges, and a variety of other health-promoting programs;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the work that staff, students, and volunteers at Boularderie School do to promote health in the school and community, and congratulate them on receiving the Norm Connors Healthy School Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 705

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Richard and Carol Rowter and family, owners of a 54-hectare property in Boularderie East, have been recognized as the Eastern Region Woodland Owners of the Year for 2014; and

Whereas this award recognizes outstanding woodland stewards, encourages sustainable woodland management, and increases public awareness of the importance of private woodlands; and

Whereas the Rowters have shown great ambition and initiative in sustainably managing their land, balancing recreation, wildlife habitat maintenance, and economic return;

[Page 2318]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate the Rowters on their dedication to good stewardship of our woodlands, and wish them continued success in the management and operation of their woodland.

RESOLUTION NO. 706

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas the Herring Choker Deli and Café in Nyanza celebrated their 20^th year of operation this year, celebrating the occasion on June 1^st, 2014; and

Whereas the Herring Choker owners and staff have been providing home-baked goods, soups, catering, and local products to loyal customers and visitors from all over the world, while supporting local musicians, non-profits, and community organizations; and

Whereas the Herring Choker is representative of a socially-responsible, sustainable small business here in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate Linda MacRae and the staff of the Herring Choker Deli on their 20^th Anniversary, thank them for their commitment to their community, and wish them ongoing success.

RESOLUTION NO. 707

By: Ms. Pam Eyking « » (Victoria-The Lakes)

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

Whereas Vince MacLean, a native of Washabuck, has published a book entitled These Were My People; and

Whereas Mr. MacLean has done approximately 50 years of research as it relates to the genealogy of the peoples of Washabuck, as well as all that makes a community - from life on the farms to transportation, religion, education, post offices, politics, cars, and of course music; and

Whereas Mr. MacLean has made a significant contribution to the body of knowledge as it relates to our community and our culture through the publishing of this anecdotal history;

[Page 2319]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the research and writing that Mr. MacLean has done, as it gives us a better understanding of the peoples from which we came, and congratulate him on the release of his book and wish him every success in his future.

RESOLUTION NO. 708

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 Canada contributed 26,000 soldiers, 516 of whom made the ultimate sacrifice, to the Korea War from 1950 to 1953; and

Whereas the community of Clayton Park West is so fortunate to be able to remember those who served in the Korean War and all the men and women who have served and serve in the Canadian Forces at our Korean War Memorial at Stratford Way Park; and

Whereas this past summer the Clayton Park Korean War Memorial was recognized by the National Inventory of Canadian Military Memorials following the great advocacy of Don Allen, President of the Korean War Veterans' Association, Mary Wile, former HRM councilor, and Suek Walling of the Korean Canadian Society;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly express thanks to Don, Mary and Suek for their tremendous work in keeping the memory of the Korean Was and the sacrifices of our soldiers alive, and congratulate them on the official recognition of the Clayton Park Korean War Memorial.

RESOLUTION NO. 709

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 Elizabeth Shears, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, a resident of Clayton Park West, and a proud mother of two adopted Nova Scotian girls, received her Canadian citizenship on October 2, 2014, after living in Canada for over 40 years; and

Whereas Elizabeth made a significant contribution to the lives of Nova Scotians through holding senior positions in the Department of Health and Wellness during her distinguished 13-year career with the Nova Scotia Government; and

[Page 2320]

Whereas Elizabeth has many years of dedicated community service with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia, FEED Nova Scotia, the Canadian Cancer Society, and Calvin Presbyterian Church, along with volunteering in numerous elections, despite not having the ability to vote;

Therefore be it resolved that the Members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Elizabeth on her citizenship and wish her many more years of active service as a Canadian citizen living in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 710

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 Ron Porter, native of Oxford, Nova Scotia, and long-time resident of Clayton Park West, became a member of the 1^st Battalion Nova Scotia Highlanders (North) in 1970; and

Whereas, over the course of nearly 44 years, he has served many roles in many locations in Atlantic Canada and overseas for the military, including the Militia, founder of the Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corp (Truro), OIC United Kingdom Exchange, and Training Officer RCIS (Atlantic); and

Whereas this past year, Major Ron Porter was recognized by the Canadian Armed Forces with the award of the Canadian Forces Decoration with three bars, representing 42 years of dedicated military service, making him one of the few active servicemen to receive the distinction;

Therefore be it resolved that the Members of this House of Assembly express thanks to Major Porter for his dedicated and ongoing commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces and the vital role it plays in defending Nova Scotians and Canadians in times of peace and conflict.

RESOLUTION NO. 711

[Page 2321]

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 Halifax West High School, located in Clayton Park West, is the most multi-cultural school in Nova Scotia and is known for its long tradition of school spirit; and

Whereas Halifax West High School has a history of active student council elections, and this year, Michael Greenlaw and Stefano Sokolic were elected as co-presidents of the student government; and

Whereas these two students have proven themselves to be extraordinary leaders in their school community, and have been recognized by their peers to lead the student body for the 2014-2015 year;

Therefore be it resolved that the Members of this House congratulate Michael Greenlaw and Stefano Sokolic on being elected co-presidents of the Halifax West High School Student Government and wish them continued success in all their school activities throughout the year.

RESOLUTION NO. 712

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas, on November 5^th, 2014, the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses during their annual business awards, and announced the Canning Village Meat Market the winner of the Outstanding Small Business of the Year; and

Whereas this award recognizes a business in the Annapolis Valley that is more than three years old with a total number of employees not exceeding 25; and

Whereas Canning Village Meat Market was the winner of this award because they have an outstanding reputation for quality and local products, including their famous pepperoni, beef jerky and fresh sausages;

Therefore be it resolved that all Members of this House of Assembly congratulate Village Meat Market for winning this year's award and thank the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce for once again encouraging locally produced products and supporting agricultural businesses.

[Page 2322]

RESOLUTION NO. 713

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas on November 5, 2014, the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized local businesses during their Annual Business Awards and announced Hutchinson's Maple Syrup as the Innovator of the Year; and

Whereas this award recognizes a local business that is more than three years old with a significant strength in innovation and has created a distinguishable product or service in the market or industry; and

Whereas Hutchinson's Maple Syrup was the winner of this award because they recently introduced a new line of infused maple syrup designed to show consumers that maple syrup is so much more than pancakes and waffles;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Chris and Anna Hutchinson of Hutchinson's Acres for winning this year's award and thank the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce for continuing to recognize the innovators in our agriculture industry.

RESOLUTION NO. 714

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 that 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 3, 2014, a very special occasion took place when Christina Snow and Danny Swaine welcomed their son into the world;

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

[Page 2323]

RESOLUTION NO. 715

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 that 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 19, 2014, a very special occasion took place when Kimberly and Matthew Banks welcomed their son into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 716

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 that 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 21, 2014, a very special occasion took place when Julia Brannen and Jamie Banks welcomed their son into the world;

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

[Page 2324]

RESOLUTION NO. 717

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 10, 2014, a very special occasion took place when Dorothy and Vandyke Cameron of Woods Harbour celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 718

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 that 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 3, 2014, a very special occasion took place when Satyn and George Nickerson welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 719

[Page 2325]

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 that 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 20, 2014, a very special occasion took place when Courtney and Caleb Quinlan welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 720

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Royal Canadian Legion has been sponsoring Poster and Literacy contests since 1960, in an effort to promote Remembrance amongst all Canadians; and

Whereas Primary to Senior High students from all across Canada are invited to submit posters and essays honouring our veterans; and

Whereas Lauren Gatto of Elmsdale District School was awarded a plaque and $250 for her entry in the 2014 Junior Essay category;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lauren Gatto on being a winner of the 2014 Royal Canadian Legion Poster and Literacy contest.

RESOLUTION NO. 721

[Page 2326]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Lawson Grant of Kennetcook was born with a hearing impairment and has been using hearing aids since the tender age of four months; and

Whereas Lawson Grant is a student of Kennetcook District Elementary School and receives support from the Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority; and

Whereas Lawson has received two awards, one from the Canadian Association of Educators of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for academic achievement, as well as the Lena Donachie award for a deaf or hard of hearing student that exhibits a love of reading and a love of books;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Lawson Grant for his academic achievement and wish him continued success in all of his academic endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 722

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department's past Fire Chief Albert Hannah was presented with a Certificate of Contribution for his help in ensuring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Albert Hannah for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 723

[Page 2327]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department volunteer Burton Baker was absent but recognized for his help in ensuring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Burton Baker for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 724

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Jeffrey Leahy of Elmsdale for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Jeffrey's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 25 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 725

[Page 2328]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Natural Resources paid special recognition to Garth DeMont of Mount Uniacke for his 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Garth's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 726

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Office of Service Nova Scotia paid special recognition to Christopher Mason of Belnan for his 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Christopher's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 727

[Page 2329]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Labour and Advanced Education paid special recognition to Dale Stewart of Milford Station for his 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Dale's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 728

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Roderick Swistun of Elmsdale for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Roderick's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 25 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 729

[Page 2330]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Bernard Verge of East Gore for his 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Bernard's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 730

By: Mr. Terry Farrell « » (Cumberland North)

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

Whereas Daren White of Amherst, Nova Scotia, was presented with the YMCA Peace Medallion; and

Whereas the YMCA Peace Medallion is intended to recognize the achievements of individuals and groups in local communities who, without any special resources, demonstrate in their lives and activities the values expressed in the World Alliance of YMCA's 1981 Statement of Peace, which says ". . . peace begins with each person, in relationships with family and friends, and extends to community life and national activities"; and

Whereas Daren White, a schoolteacher at Spring Street Academy, goes above and beyond his duties to instill pride and encouragement to his students and the school as a whole, and his involvement in the community through various organizations is evident in his day-to-day activities;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly commend Daren White for his humanitarianism and outstanding contributions to the people of Amherst, his community and Spring Street Academy.

[Page 2331]

RESOLUTION NO. 731

By: Mr. Terry Farrell « » (Cumberland North)

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

Whereas Terri LeFurgey-Lewis recently held a backyard party, HastingsFest, in August to raise money for the Cumberland Palliative Care and Hospice Society; and

Whereas the event, organized by Terri LeFurgey-Lewis, featured various local musicians, a silent auction and BBQ, raising over $2,500 for the Hospice Society, who are raising money to bring a free-standing palliative care facility to Cumberland County; and

Whereas this was the sixth year of fundraising for LeFurgey-Lewis in memory of her brother, Tim LeFurgey, who passed away from cancer in 2008;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly commend Terri LeFurgey-Lewis for her contributions to local palliative care programs in Cumberland County.

RESOLUTION NO. 732

By: Mr. Terry Farrell « » (Cumberland North)

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

Whereas Richard Patriquin of Amherst, N.S., has been recognized by Midland as Highway Driver of the Year; and

Whereas Richard Patriquin joined the Midland team more than 34 years ago; and

Whereas besides his great work ethic, he is known for being the first to help in any situation, having received two awards in recognition of assisting people on the road;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly commend Richard Patriquin for his professionalism and work ethic and for having been named Highway Driver of the Year.

RESOLUTION NO. 733

[Page 2332]

By: Mr. Terry Farrell « » (Cumberland North)

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

Whereas Zach Cormier from Amherst, N.S., recently received the MVP award at the Offense-Defense New England Football Camp; and

Whereas 14-year-old Zach Cormier was invited to attend the football camp in Rhode Island and because of his success at the camp, he will play at the Team USA East vs. Team USA West at the All-American Offense-Defense Showcase games at Citrus Bowl Stadium in Orlando, Florida, in late December 2014; and

Whereas Cormier currently plays football with the Tantramar Regional High School Titans and plays in the New Brunswick High School Football League with the Titans, and his dream is to play college football in the United States;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly commend Zach Cormier for his competitive spirit and achieving the distinction of MVP at the New England Football Camp.

RESOLUTION NO. 734

By: Mr. Terry Farrell « » (Cumberland North)

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

Whereas Allison Borden, a member of the Amherst Special Olympics Soccer team that won silver at the 2014 Special Olympics Canada summer Games in Vancouver; and

Whereas after a year of training and preparation Allison Borden was named to Team Nova Scotia in September of 2013; and

Whereas the Amherst Soccer Team was the first from Amherst to be named to Team Nova Scotia, having only been represented by individual athletes at Nationals in the past, and thus the first National Team medalists from our region; the soccer team's silver medal was one of 68 medals brought home by Team NS athletes at these games;

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House of Assembly commend Allison Borden of The Amherst Soccer Team for her recent accomplishments and especially for winning silver at the 2014 Special Olympics in Vancouver, BC.

RESOLUTION NO. 735

[Page 2333]

By: Mr. Terry Farrell « » (Cumberland North)

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

Whereas Brian Haynes of Amherst, Nova Scotia, retired on April 30, 2014; and

Whereas Brian Haynes demonstrated dedication and loyalty to the Province over the past 26 years and in particular with the Department of Justice;

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brian Haynes on his retirement and commend him for his dedication and loyalty to the Province of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 736

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Susan Marshall Steele, a teacher at Astral Drive Elementary, is a life-long learner working on her third master's degree, and has individualized a PE portfolio for every one of the 500+ students in the school; and

Whereas her qualifications, skills and knowledge, coupled with her deep commitment to volunteerism have enriched students within our community and local organizations for almost two decades; and

Whereas on Friday November 7, 2014, she will be honoured by receiving the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulation Susan Marshall Steele for receiving such high recognition as a community volunteer and a teacher totally committed to her students success.

RESOLUTION NO. 737

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Scott Gardiner, a 39-year-old Special Olympian, qualified in bowling at the Nova Scotia Special Olympics to attend the National Special Olympics in Vancouver; and

[Page 2334]

Whereas he is a committed Special Olympian who has been bowling since the age of nine and bowled three strikes in a row in one of his games; and

Whereas he keeps busy doing activities he is passionate about including bowling, swimming and golfing, and never lets his disability define him;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Scott Gardiner on his success and accomplishments in the National Special Olympics.

RESOLUTION NO. 738

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Lieutenant Colonel (Ret'd) Russell F. Hubley, a 92-year-old RCAF veteran was honoured at a public ceremony held at the Shearwater Aviation Museum on June 20, 2014; and

Whereas Flight Officer Hubley's services have been documented in the book, Pathfinder: The WWII Experiences of RCAF Air-Gunner FO Russell F. Hubley DFC, CD, written by his son Bruce Hubley; and

Whereas the Legion of Honour is the highest and most prestigious decoration bestowed by the Government of France;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Lieutenant Colonel (Ret'd) Russell F. Hubley, a Canadian D-Day Veteran for being awarded the Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour of France, and wish him well in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 739

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Lieutenant (N) John Phillips joined the Canadian Military as a Regular Force member in October 1967 and the Reserve Force in January 1999, serving a total of 44.5 years in uniform; and

[Page 2335]

Whereas he is a totally committed community volunteer with the Philae Shriners, International Clown Association, Masons, and Community Watch; and

Whereas he has been actively involved with the Sea Cadet program since September 1997 until present, which is the largest youth program in Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Lieutenant (N) John Philips for his outstanding military service and as an extraordinary community volunteer, wishing him the best of health and happiness in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 740

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Sobeys in Russell Lake graciously provide unwavering support to the whole community of Eastern Passage-Cow Bay; and

Whereas they are the main sponsor for our Annual Eastern Passage-Cow Bay Summer Carnival Seniors' Tea, along with our Annual Eastern Passage-Cow Bay Harvest Festival; and

Whereas their ongoing contributions include funding, food and food servers, which greatly enhance the overall success of our community events;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Sobeys on behalf of the constituents in Eastern Passage for their continual support, which is greatly appreciated, and wish them well in their future business.

RESOLUTION NO. 741

By: Mr. John Lohr « » (Kings North)

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

Whereas Ducks Unlimited is the world's leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation; and

[Page 2336]

Whereas Miner's Marsh, located in Kentville, is an extremely popular natural habitat which supports an abundance of wildlife such as American black ducks, wood ducks, bald eagles, muskrats, dragonflies, and a broad variety of other waterfowl and wildlife; and

Whereas Ducks Unlimited was awarded the Mayflower Award for Miner's Marsh and the contribution of the marsh as a wetland park to the Town of Kentville;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ducks Unlimited for their contribution to the Miner's Marsh as a wetland park to the Town of Kentville.

RESOLUTION NO. 742

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Beechville Lakeside Timberlea (BLT) Community Garden, located at Lakeside Recreation Centre, 1492 St. Margaret's Bay Road in Lakeside, was established in April 2012 and is the largest community garden in Halifax; and

Whereas the BLT Community Garden provides area residents with enjoyable, accessible gardening for community service, healthy foods and as a recreational and community-building experience; and

Whereas volunteers of all ages have taken ownership of the BLT Community Garden and are the heart of the program, leading by example and learning from each other to make the gardens thrive and the harvest plentiful, most notably Debra Forsyth-Smith;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Debra and the volunteers behind the BLT Community Garden for their growing successes and wish them a flourishing future.

RESOLUTION NO. 743

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Resource Opportunities Centre (ROC), a grassroots volunteer community development association serving the Prospect communities, first opened the doors of the Terence Bay and Area C@P Site on October 1, 1998, and have been serving the community since 2010 as the volunteer management organization for the municipally-owned PRCC; and

[Page 2337]

Whereas since its inception, the ROC has worked collaboratively with area residents, local community groups and elected officials to design and deliver hundreds of programs and services, and the ROC was one of the key organizations that helped identify the need and worked to establish the very successful Prospect Road Community Centre (PRCC); and

Whereas over the past 16 years, the ROC has been blessed with the dedicated support of hundreds of volunteers that have allowed the organization to grow, creating local employment, building community capacity and pride;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly congratulate the ROC and recognize its board of directors, past and present, and the staff of the ROC and PRCC for their outstanding service to community.

RESOLUTION NO. 744

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Wayne Hamilton was a beloved teacher in the Brookside community for many years and a valued employee of the Department of Education with this province; and

Whereas Wayne is a long-term resident and an active and dedicated volunteer in the Brookside area and he has consistently demonstrated leadership, giving freely of his time and expertise to dozens of local initiatives that have added great value to the lives of many; and

Whereas Wayne works co-operatively to build partnerships that have provided community parks, green spaces, tot lots and trails, and he has been on the boards of a number of local organizations and community groups, making a huge contribution to Joint Emergency Measures and community preparedness planning for the larger community;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize and commend Wayne Hamilton on his tremendous contribution to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 745

[Page 2338]

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Susan Bonin has brightened the lives of many with her joyful optimism and joie de vivre, always quick-humoured with a love of nature, and is well suited as educational program assistant with HRSB for many years; and

Whereas Susan and her family take pride in their community with tremendous efforts to remove roadside garbage on River Road in Terence Bay, participating annually in community clean-ups as well as daily walks with bags to pick up trash that careless folk toss from their vehicles, spoiling the natural beauty of the surrounding area; and

Whereas Susan recently suffered some health issues, causing her daily presence to be missed in the community;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly send well wishes for a full and speedy recovery to Susan Bonin and thank her and her family for the quiet community service.

RESOLUTION NO. 746

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Sean and Jack McNutt, brothers from Lakeside in the Timberlea-Prospect riding, are both passionate and skilled in Canada's national sport, lacrosse; and

Whereas Sean and Jack and their family worked hard to earn spots on both the box and field lacrosse teams as representatives for Nova Scotia on a national stage this year; and

Whereas Jack McNutt won gold in the B division in the National Bantam Box Lacrosse Championship in Vancouver and Sean McNutt won gold in the U16 Field Lacrosse National Championship in Edmonton;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Jack and Sean McNutt and their teammates on their dedication and success in promoting awareness and excellence in the sport of lacrosse in the province.

RESOLUTION NO. 747

[Page 2339]

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas 2001 saw the first ever Fun in the Fog event, hosted in Lower Prospect, or as it was called on the first year, Fun in the Sun; and

Whereas for the past 13 years this annual event has continued to grow and draw people to the dock at East Coast Outfitters to hear the music of McGinty drift across the water, catch up with neighbours and friends, and welcome visitors by land and sea to be part of community; and

Whereas Travis Humphrey, a lifetime resident of Lower Prospect, has repeatedly taken on the huge task of event and volunteer coordinator for Fun in the Fog and for collecting donations for the local food bank and other such good causes;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the contribution of Travis' time and talents in organizing this successful and much anticipated event and with him well in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 748

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Terence Bay Lighthouse Committee, TBLC, successfully submitted a business plan to the federal government to take over management of the Terence Bay Lighthouse, a prized community asset; and

Whereas the TBLC members have demonstrated their commitment to the preservation of the Lighthouse over the past decade and in doing so have increased community pride and knowledge of the village's rich maritime history, notably each September on Lighthouse Day, which has become part of community life in Terence Bay; and

Whereas the TBLC members are presently investing ways to create free and clear public access to keep the structure sound and esthetically pleasing;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the volunteer members of the Terence Bay Lighthouse Committee and wish them continued success in the future.

[Page 2340]

RESOLUTION NO. 749

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Mr. Robert (Bob) Angus is an active volunteer in community and with a holistic view of a healthy community and a driving desire to make a positive difference, Bob looks for ways to make his community a stronger, safe place for all; and

Whereas Bob volunteers with a number of local organizations from seniors groups to residents associations, as a warden on the BLT Trail System, and as a contributing member of the Community Monitoring Committee (CMC); and

Whereas Bob leads by example and strives to inspire younger people to step up to leadership in community;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize Bob Angus's volunteer commitment to community and thank him for his community service.

RESOLUTION NO. 750

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Peter Jollimore has worked for HRM in the recreation department serving the Timberlea-Prospect area for a number of years and has been an active volunteer with the MacDonald Lake Residents Association; and

Whereas Peter's knowledge and experience of community development has allowed him to provide gentle support for numerous community initiatives and activities that have increased opportunities for residents to become more active and lead healthier lifestyles; and

Whereas Peter seeks out and supports community leadership in people of all ages and abilities he fosters and empowers others to step up to the plate to be the change they want to see;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize and congratulate Peter Jollimore on the work that he does that builds community capacity and empowers residents.

[Page 2341]

RESOLUTION NO. 751

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas as residents of a coastal fishing village, those who call Prospect Village home, have always banded together, however this year marks the 30^th Anniversary of the incorporation of the Prospect Peninsula Residents Association, the PPRA; and

Whereas the PPRA has facilitated numerous projects and events that have leveraged countless volunteer hours, featuring the natural beauty of the High Heads Trail, the ownership and maintenance of the community wharf, and the children's playground, all making the village more welcoming and accessible through the efforts of the PPRA; and

Whereas this year marks a turning point for the village of Prospect with the imminent sale of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and its hall, which has been long used for all functions and community gatherings of the PPRA;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the significant contribution of the volunteers of the PPRA in enhancing village life and wish them well with their efforts to take over ownership of an important community asset.

RESOLUTION NO. 752

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Halifax County United Soccer Club U16 Tier 1 Girls qualified for the provincial tournament in the Nova Scotia Soccer League with 14 wins in 14 games; and

Whereas Halifax County United Soccer Club U16 Tier 1 Girls won gold in the Nova Scotia Soccer League provincial tournament, September 6^th-7^th; and

Whereas the Halifax County United Soccer Club U16 Tier 1 Girls finished fourth representing Nova Scotia at the Canadian Soccer Association National Club Championship in Mt. Pearl, Newfoundland and Labrador, and the U16 girls did not concede a single goal during regulation play over the five games played;

[Page 2342]

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the achievement of the players, coaches, families, and fans of the Halifax County United Soccer Club U16 Tier 1 Girls and wish them continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 753

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Terry and Pam Henley have provided excellence in customer service to all who use the Needs store in Lakeside for the past 10 years; and

Whereas a convenience store is a mainstay of many small communities such as Lakeside, and owners and operators of such premises become part of the fabric of a community; and

Whereas Terry and Pam Henley have served the resident of Beechville, Lakeside, Timberlea, and surrounding areas as business owners for the past decade and taken on other roles in community, such as posting news and events on the community sign and working with HRM recreation staff to ensure that the community needs are addressed;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Terry and Pam Henley on a job well done and wish them well in their retirement.

RESOLUTION NO. 754

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas East Foodies in Lakeside provides delicious and authentic Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine at affordable prices; and

Whereas East Foodies is a family-run small business operated by new immigrants who demonstrate a strong work ethic and a friendly disposition; and

Whereas you always get service with a smile and piping hot, tasty dishes to eat in or take out;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the hard work and first class customer service provided by the owners and staff of East Foodies in Lakeside.

[Page 2343]

RESOLUTION NO. 755

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Mr. Dan Chasie has owned and operated Halifax C & D Recycling in Goodwood for nearly 20 years, with a second location in Dartmouth, and he added a tire recycling plant to his Goodwood operation in 2005; and

Whereas Dan has designed and improved processes over the years that increase diversion rates, and he has consistently striven to develop new uses for old products rather than have them add to the strain on public landfills; and

Whereas Halifax C & D & Tire Recycling provides a much-needed service to residents of HRM and works to protect the environment while creating local employment and being a good corporate citizen, sponsoring an annual community cleanup on the Prospect Road;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Dan Chasie and his team for diverting and recycling waste so that we can all help the environment.

RESOLUTION NO. 756

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas located in Timberlea, the Sittin' Pretty Doggy Daycare was established in October 2012; and

Whereas Sittin' Pretty Doggy Daycare provides numerous services from dog daycare to grooming to training for obedience and socializing of dogs, including my dog, Rocco; and

Whereas the owners and operators of Sittin' Pretty Doggy Daycare provide a greatly needed service to dog owners from far and wide, and their obvious devotion to dogs and their extensive knowledge on the subject give dog owners peace of mind when leaving their beloved animal in their care;

[Page 2344]

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Sittin' Pretty Doggy Daycare and wish them continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 757

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Halifax County Soccer U14 Tier 1A Girls qualified for the provincial tournament in the Nova Scotia Soccer League with a record of 11 wins, 1 loss and 2 ties; and

Whereas the Halifax County Soccer U14 Tier 1A Girls won gold in the Nova Scotia Soccer League provincial tournament, September 6-7; and

Whereas the Halifax County Soccer U14 Tier 1A Girls finished fourth representing Nova Scotia at the Canadian Soccer Association National Club Championship in Charlottetown, P.E.I., October 3-8, 2014;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the players, coaches, families and fans of the Halifax County Soccer U14 Tier 1A Girls on their hard work and wish them continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 758

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas located only 10 minutes from Halifax, with its gently rolling fairways, USGA-designed greens and meticulously groomed fairways, the Indian Lake Golf Course offers 9- and 18-hole options that are both a scenic and challenging experience for all golfers; and

Whereas in the Fall of 2014, Indian Lake Golf Course now has three state-of-the-art High Definition Golf simulators up and running to keep enthusiasts playing golf all year round; and

Whereas HD Golf has become the system of choice for top golfers and instructors around the world, having set the standard for both accuracy and realism in the indoor golf industry;

[Page 2345]

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly commend the owners and operators of the Indian Lake Golf Course on their initiative to engage golf players year round and wish them good luck for the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 759

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Lynda Noble has been the owner/operator of the very successful Prospect Bay Children's Centre for the past 26 years, always running the facility in an inclusive way and ensuring that the children enjoy nature and have an appreciation for the world around them; and

Whereas this year saw the long anticipated opening of the brand new "green" Prospect Bay Children's Centre, a light-filled, 5,600-square-foot modern facility, built with funding through a loan in 2009 through the Department of Community Services (now the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and Housing Nova Scotia); and

Whereas the new building has allowed Lynda to double her workforce and to accommodate more families from the area;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Lynda Noble and the staff of the Prospect Bay Children's Centre on their new facility and wish them and their students continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 760

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Terry Thomas, a resident of East Preston, attended Auburn Drive High School and then moved on to St. FX where he excelled in basketball for St. Francis Xavier X-Men before transferring to Ottawa; and

Whereas while attending the University of Ottawa he played for the Gee-Gees and became a record breaker, earning a place in the Gee-Gees history books and finished fourth in the country in scoring with 22.4 points per game; and

[Page 2346]

Whereas Terry Thomas has now signed to play for the expansion Hamburg Towers of the German Pro A League;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in recognizing the excellent contribution that Terry Thomas has made in basketball for Canada and his home province of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 761

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Candace Thomas was brought up in the community of East Preston and after completing public school attended Saint Mary's University where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree and then attended Dalhousie University where she received her Bachelor of Laws degree; and

Whereas Candice Thomas then became a partner in the law firm of Stewart McKelvey and has practised there since 1999 and as well, with three partners, she purchased Mills Department Store located on Spring Garden Road in Halifax; and

Whereas Ms. Thomas has a varied practice that includes mergers, acquisitions, et cetera and she also is vice-chair of the board of directors of the Black Business Initiative Society as well as contributes a regular business law column to Black Business, a quarterly magazine published by the Black Business Initiative Society;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in congratulating Ms. Thomas on her dedication to law in Nova Scotia and her many successes.

RESOLUTION NO. 762

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Channing Wright is a resident of Cole Harbour who attended Auburn Drive High School and graduated with an 84 per cent average; and

Whereas Channing Wright received the $6,000 Dr. P. Anthony (Tony) Johnstone Memorial Entrance Scholarship at his graduation ceremony and as well received the Africville Heritage Trust Scholarship of $1,500; and

[Page 2347]

Whereas Mr. Wright works part-time and still manages to volunteer with community groups such as the Little Dribblers basketball program, Global Tours, the New Beginnings Ministry Youth Group and church, and Youth on the Move;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge and congratulate Channing Wright on his scholarships and his volunteer work with our Nova Scotia youth.

RESOLUTION NO. 764

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Stewart Williams has lived his entire life in the community of East Preston and it is in East Preston where he married and raised his two children; and

Whereas Mr. Williams and his friend started Cousins Contracting in 1975 and operated as such until he went on his own and formed Lincoln Excavating Limited in 1988, is now the owner of Lincoln Construction Inc. and employs some 7 to 18 people; and

Whereas Mr. Williams became a fully ordained Baptist minister in 2000 and has been pastor at the Lucasville United Baptist Church for the last 13 years as well as being a community leader in his own community of East Preston by participating in numerous organizations such as the Lions Club, East Preston United Baptist Church, Board of Trade and the East Preston Ratepayers Association;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in thanking Stewart Williams for his many contributions to his community and to Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 760

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard, social worker, educator, researcher and community activist was born and raised in East Preston, one of 13 children her parents raised and was one of the first three young people from East Preston to attend university where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree and went on to receive her Masters of Social Work from Dalhousie and her PhD from the University of Sheffield in England; and

[Page 2348]

Whereas she worked in mental health until 1990 at which time she became a professor at the Dalhousie School of Social Work until 2001 when she became a director; and

Whereas Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard has won numerous awards over the years, some of which include the W.P. Oliver Wall of Fame Award, the Order of Canada Award, Community Leadership Award, Community Mentoring Award, Women of Distinction Award, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Award and the Canada 125 medal for outstanding contributions to Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the many contributions Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard made, not only to Nova Scotia, but to all of Canada.

RESOLUTION NO. 765

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Brookside Community Homeowners Association has been serving the Brookside Community for over 20 years, representing approximately 600 homes and 1,500-plus residents; and

Whereas working collaboratively with all levels of government and other community organizations, the BCHA develops and maintains parks, green spaces, tot lots and trails, and they host events, form valuable communications links for residents new and old and work to build a strong sense of community for all; and

Whereas all those who spend a day at Campbell Point Beach or access the network of winter trails have the BCHA to thank for these healthy and active lifestyle choices;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the tremendous contribution of the volunteers of the BCHA to the betterment of community life.

RESOLUTION NO. 766

[Page 2349]

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Scott Guthrie, a lifetime resident of the Timberlea-Prospect riding, has served in all branches of the Canadian Armed Forces and he has since settled into civilian life and found a passion for volunteering; and

Whereas Scott has been a committed champion for the host communities of the Otter Lake Landfill and he sits on the Community Monitoring Committee and the Halifax Waste Resource Society as a watchdog for community; and

Whereas for the past two years, Scott has been the driving force behind efforts to open up trails and skating areas for the enjoyment of residents in the surrounding communities, making the Brookside ice trail system the envy of many;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize Scott Guthrie for his generosity of spirit and commend him for his good work in stepping up to leadership.

RESOLUTION NO. 767

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Ken Hubley lives in Timberlea and is a parent of two wonderful children with a positive attitude, Ken is committed to share his outlook with others and for over a decade, he has been a volunteer extraordinaire; and

Whereas whether advancing projects through to successful completion on behalf of several resident associations or always taking the high ground in helping resolve potential conflicts among groups, he has done so without ever seeking personal advancement or recognition; and

Whereas Ken is the author of a series of children's books titled No Neggie (No Neggie stands for "no negativity"), and these books provide a fun way for parents to talk with their kids about behaviours that they may encounter in life and lets the kids talk about things they see in others;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize Ken Hubley's contribution to community, commend him on his positive outlook, and wish him success in his literary career.

[Page 2350]

RESOLUTION NO. 768

By: Mr. John Lohr « » (Kings North)

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

Whereas on November 9^th, Alan Knowles, an employee of Transcontinental Media, will retire from the newspaper business after 30 years; and

Whereas Alan Knowles has served the local business community in the Annapolis Valley for over 45 years and has spent 30 of those years in the newspaper business; and

Whereas Alan Knowles is a firm believer in print media and has contributed greatly to promoting small business through his efforts;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Alan Knowles on his retirement and wish him every good wish for the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 769

By: Ms. Karla MacFarlane « » (Pictou West)

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

Whereas Uncle Leo's Brewery, owned and operated by Karl and Rebecca Whiffen and located in the Town of Pictou, has been awarded the Pictou County Chamber of Commerce 2014 New Business of the Year Award; and

Whereas Uncle Leo's produces four different styles of beer and recently won a gold medal at the Atlantic Canada Brewing Awards for Best German-Style Beer in Atlantic Canada; and

Whereas Uncle Leo's currently employs four people full-time and one person seasonally;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Karl and Rebecca Whiffen of Uncle Leo's Brewery on receiving these awards and wish them the best in their future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 770

[Page 2351]

By: Mr. John Lohr « » (Kings North)

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

Whereas the Pictou County Chamber of Commerce 2014 Leadership in Business Award has been awarded to Michelin; and

Whereas it was disappointing when Michelin announced that the Granton plant was shutting down part of its production but they handled the situation with care and compassion for the affected workers; and

Whereas some workers transferred to other plants, some took retirement packages, and then Michelin announced the Michelin Development Fund for anyone wishing to set up or expand a business;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Michelin for showing strong leadership in challenging and difficult circumstances.

RESOLUTION NO. 771

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia College of Family Physicians is handing yearly the Nova Scotia Family Physician of the Year Award to an outstanding family physician; and

Whereas Dr. Michelle Dow is a champion in promoting the role of the family physician in the health care system in the Clare area in providing high-quality, comprehensive patient care; and

Whereas Dr. Dow is recognized in her community as an Acadian medical doctor for her dedication to the medical profession;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Dr. Michelle Dow for being named 2014 Nova Scotia Family Physician of the Year and wish her continued success as she serves the community of Clare.

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

Attendu que le Collège des médecins de famille de la Nouvelle-Écosse décerne annuellement le prix du médecin de famille de l'année en Nouvelle-Ecosse à un médecin de famille exceptionnel;

[Page 2352]

Attendu que Dre Michelle Dow est une championne de la promotion du rôle du médecin de famille dans le système de soins de santé de la région de Clare en offrant des soins complets et de qualité supérieure;

Attendu que Dre Dow est reconnue comme médecin de famille dans sa communauté acadienne pour son dévouement à la profession;

Par conséquent, qu'il soit résolu que les membres de cette Assemblée législative félicitent Dre Michelle Dow pour avoir été nommée médecin de famille de l'année en Nouvelle-Écosse en 2014 et lui souhaitent un succès continu dans la communauté de Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 772

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas Sport Nova Scotia hosted the 18^th Annual Ricoh Sport Awards on May 31, 2014, at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax; and

Whereas the award ceremony recognizes nominated athletes, teams, coaches, officials, sponsors, and volunteers from across the province; and

Whereas the provincial organization for karate named Trysten Deveau of Clare as their 2014 Female Individual Athlete of the Year;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Trysten Deveau on this prestigious award and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 773

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas on May 8^th, 16 volunteers from across Nova Scotia were recognized at the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Outstanding Volunteer Awards reception in Halifax; and

Whereas these volunteers were recognized for their exceptional and dedicated service to the foundation; and

[Page 2353]

Whereas Jim Smith of Saulnierville was awarded the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Outstanding Volunteer Award for outstanding volunteer efforts with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jim Smith for his outstanding contributions to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 774

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas John Pettipas has been successfully operating Pettipas Market located in Aulds Cove for over 38 years, and has been providing our local communities and visitors from afar with all kinds of things from local produce to Terry Fox ribbons, souvenir t-shirts, and much more; and

Whereas in addition to being a successful entrepreneur in rural Nova Scotia, John has been actively fundraising for the Terry Fox Foundation for 21 years; and

Whereas John has a genuine passion for helping others and singly raised $24,340.79 last year for the Terry Fox Foundation, and his grand total to date is $215,118.06;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize the generosity and dedication John Pettipas has for the human race, and the difference he has been making in the lives of so many Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 775

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas on July 22, 2014, Mr. Sherman MacArthur accompanied by his wife Leona, son Philip, daughter-in-law Shelley, and great granddaughter Lauren, was presented the Ambassador of Peace Medal from the Republic of Korea; and

[Page 2354]

Whereas this medal marked the 64^th Anniversary of the start of the Korean War; and

Whereas Mr. MacArthur is proud of his service to his country and very proud of the medals he has received in recognition of his service;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Mr. Sherman MacArthur for his dedication to our country.

RESOLUTION NO. 776

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas each year the Sheet Harbour Lions Club organize the Seaside Festival; and

Whereas numerous events take place, including the English tea; and

Whereas tables at this tea were decorated to represent different countries around the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize this organization for raising over $1,500 in support of the Lions Club that contributes to the local community.

RESOLUTION NO. 777

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas the Town of Mulgrave celebrates Scotia Days, which is a five-day event each summer; and

Whereas people from near and far participate in all the fun activities for all ages; and

Whereas this festival is ended with a Sunday evening concert and fireworks;

[Page 2355]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize all the people who make Mulgrave Scotia Days such a spectacular event.

RESOLUTION NO. 778

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas on June 14^th the Guysborough District Fish and Game Association held their 27^th Annual Fishing Derby at MacPherson Lake; and

Whereas this fun-filled family outdoor activity was enjoyed by many participants; and

Whereas the proceeds from this year's 50/50 draw was donated by the association to the Guysborough Hospital Foundation in memory of Kenny Meagher;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize the Guysborough District Fish and Game Association for their dedication to this annual event.

RESOLUTION NO. 779

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas for the last 42 years, Come Home Week has been celebrated in Guysborough; and

Whereas people from near and far come together to take part in these week long festivities; and

Whereas some of the events include ball games, parades, and concerts which showcase local talent and a spectacular firework display to name a few;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize all the people who make Guysborough Come Home Week such a great event.

RESOLUTION NO. 780

[Page 2356]

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas Colonel Kristiana Stevens of Goldboro was invested into the Order of Military Merit as an Officer of the Order; and

Whereas this award was presented to her by His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General, at Rideau Hall on July 20; and

Whereas the Order of Military Merit recognizes distinctive merit and exceptional service displayed by the men and women of the Canadian Forces who have demonstrated dedication and devotion beyond the call of duty, and the order honours them for their commitment to Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize colonel Stevens for her commitment to our country.

RESOLUTION NO. 781

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas Community in Action for Kids was founded in 2013 in Guysborough; and

Whereas the committee saw a need to help raise the needed funds to cover the cost of special events hosted throughout the summer months for children living in the municipality of Guysborough, to ensure all children could participate without a financial barrier; and

Whereas last year they raised over $6,000 and were able to cover the complete cost of three special events for over 150 participants and this year intend to cover the complete cost of three or more events;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly wish the committee continued success with all future fundraising endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 782

[Page 2357]

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas on August 10^th Canso held their 38^th Seamen's Memorial Service; and

Whereas historic attachment to the fishery was the focus and the history of this special day was reviewed; and

Whereas flowers and wreaths were on display at the memorial site until they were placed in the Chedabucto Bay by local boats in a final tribute to those lost at sea while working in the fishery;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the men who did lose their lives at sea and also to those who continue to find employment on the water.

RESOLUTION NO. 783

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas two young children from Canso, Khloe, and Rhys Myatt attended the annual open house for Hope for Wildlife in Seaforth, Nova Scotia; and

Whereas inspired by their love for animals and the weekly TV program Hope for Wildlife on Knowledge TV, they collected $300 in donations; and

Whereas this donation was presented to Hope Swinimer, founder of Hope for Wildlife;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Khloe and Rhys for being very interested in the organization and collecting money for such a worthy cause.

RESOLUTION NO. 784

[Page 2358]

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas each year communities across Canada celebrate National Volunteer Week to thank and honour people who donate their time to help others by supporting the causes in which they believe; and

Whereas on April 7, 2014, Janet Delorey from the Municipality of the District of Guysborough was honoured at the 40^th Annual Provincial Volunteer Awards Ceremony; and

Whereas through the sharing of her time and talents she has not only made tremendous contributions to her community, but to the Province of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and thank Janet Delorey for her dedication to her community and the Province of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 785

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas Earl Jewers, originally from Liscomb Mills, Guysborough County, joined the Army in 1940 at the age of 18 years old; and

Whereas he landed on Juno Beach on June 6, 1944, with the North Nova Scotia Highlanders; and

Whereas Mr. Jewers, accompanied by his daughter and grandson, travelled to Normandy, France, to commemorate the 70^th Anniversary of D-Day;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Mr. Earl Jewers for his dedication to our country.

RESOLUTION NO.786

[Page 2359]

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas Lisa Hutt, of Port Dufferin, has been playing an important role in the lives of many families for two decades as a paramedic; and

Whereas on May 27, 2014, she received the Paramedic Long-Service Award, this award was presented to Lisa for her 20 years of service; and

Whereas through Lisa's expertise and knowledge she has been helping to improve health care in the Province of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Lisa Hutt for her dedication and for the difference she has made in the lives of so many.

RESOLUTION NO. 787

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas Shawn Mills, of Sherbrooke, has been playing an important role in the lives of many families for two decades as a paramedic; and

Whereas on May 27, 2014, he received the Paramedic Long-Service Award, this award was presented to Shawn for his 20 years of service; and

Whereas through Shawn's expertise and knowledge he has been helping to improve health care in the Province of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize Shawn Mills for his dedication and for the difference he has made in the lives of so many.

RESOLUTION NO. 788

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas His Honour J. J. Grant, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, presented selected Grade 11 students with the Lieutenant Governor's Medal; and

[Page 2360]

Whereas on Wednesday, May 28^th, Brendan Richards was honoured at an awards ceremony held at St. Mary's Education Centre/Academy in Sherbrooke; and

Whereas these young people were recognized for their determination and commitment in achieving their goals;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Brendan Richards for earning this medal and for being an inspiration to us all.

RESOLUTION NO. 789

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas His Honour J. J. Grant, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, presented selected Grade 11 students with the Lieutenant Governor's Medal; and

Whereas on Wednesday, May 28^th, Harrison Gillis was honoured at an awards ceremony held at St. Mary's Education Centre/Academy in Sherbrooke; and

Whereas these young people were recognized for their determination and commitment in achieving their goals;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Harrison Gillis for earning this medal and for being an inspiration to us all.

RESOLUTION NO. 790

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas His Honour J. J. Grant, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, presented selected Grade 11 students with the Lieutenant Governor's Medal; and

Whereas on Wednesday, May 28^th, Denise Pellerine was honoured at an awards ceremony held at St. Mary's Education Centre/Academy in Sherbrooke; and

Whereas these young people were recognized for their determination and commitment in achieving their goals;

[Page 2361]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Denise Pellerine for earning this medal and for being an inspiration to us all.

RESOLUTION NO. 791

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas some staff of the Duncan MacMillan High School, located in Sheet Harbour, were honoured; and

Whereas Mr. Aaron Verge was honoured for his 15 years of service and is currently vice-principal of the school; and

Whereas the School Advisory Committee ended the school year with a meal in their honour;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Mr. Aaron Verge for his dedication to our students.

RESOLUTION NO. 792

By: Mr. Lloyd Hines « » (Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie)

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

Whereas some staff of the Duncan MacMillan High School, located in Sheet Harbour, were honoured; and

Whereas Mr. Lenny MacDonald was honoured for his 25 years of service as a member of the school support staff; and

Whereas the School Advisory Committee ended the school year with a meal in their honour;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Mr. Lenny MacDonald for his dedication to our students, parents, and school.

RESOLUTION NO. 793

[Page 2362]

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas in 2008 the Province of Nova Scotia passed legislation creating an award for long service for paramedics and celebrating their years of service to Nova Scotians; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards were presented during a ceremony and reception in Halifax on May 27, 2014; and

Whereas Lionel Robichaud of Meteghan received his Paramedic Long Service Award for 20 years of service;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lionel Robichaud on receiving his Paramedic Long Service Award and thank him for his service, dedication, and commitment to our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 794

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas in 2008 the Province of Nova Scotia passed legislation creating an award for long service for paramedics and celebrating their years of service to Nova Scotians; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards were presented during a ceremony and reception in Halifax on May 27, 2014; and

Whereas Walter Howard of Digby received his Paramedic Long Service Award for 26 years of service;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Walter Howard on receiving his Paramedic Long Service Award and thank him for his service, dedication, and commitment to our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 795

[Page 2363]

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas local volunteer firefighters provide a vital and outstanding service throughout rural Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Neil Trefry has been recognized for his dedication and service beyond the call of duty in helping the security of our community; and

Whereas Neil Trefry was recognized on October 4, 2014, by the Weymouth Volunteer Fire Department for his 20 years of dedicated service to Weymouth and surrounding communities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate firefighter Neil Trefry for receiving the Fire Services Long Service Award for his 20 years of service as a dedicated volunteer firefighter.

RESOLUTION NO. 796

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas local volunteer firefighters provide a vital and outstanding service throughout rural Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Weymouth Volunteer Fire Department held its annual awards banquet on October 4, 2014; and

Whereas veteran firefighter Bobby Sweeney was presented with his third award of the Fire Services Exemplary Services Medal in recognition of 40 years as a volunteer firefighter;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate firefighter Bobby Sweeney for receiving the Fire Services Exemplary Services Medal for his 40 years of service as a dedicated volunteer firefighter.

RESOLUTION NO. 797

[Page 2364]

By: Mr. Gordon Wilson « » (Clare-Digby)

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

Whereas local volunteer firefighters provide a vital and outstanding service throughout rural Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Donald Jubin has been recognized for his dedication and service beyond the call of duty in helping the security of our community; and

Whereas Donald Jubin was recognized on October 4, 2014, by the Weymouth Volunteer Fire Department for his 40 years of dedicated service to Weymouth and surrounding communities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate firefighter Donald Jubin for receiving the Fire Services Long Service Award and his 40 years of services as a dedicated volunteer firefighter.

RESOLUTION NO. 798

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Glenda Crest is a resident of Musquodoboit Harbour, a devoted wife and mother; and

Whereas Glenda is employed as a program facilitator at the Eastern Shore Family Resource Association; and

Whereas Glenda is very active with Girl Guides Canada, specifically the Pathfinders, and is an active volunteer at Oyster Pond Academy;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Glenda for her commitment to her community and recognizing the importance in guiding our youth for a better tomorrow.

RESOLUTION NO. 799

[Page 2365]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Marilyn Bennet, a long-time resident of Musquodoboit Harbour and a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother; and

Whereas Marilyn was a founding member of the Musquodoboit Harbour Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and active member of the local business community; and

Whereas Marilyn is a member of St. Thomas Anglican Church in Musquodoboit Harbour, where she contributes her time and talents to all aspects of parish life;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Marilyn Bennet for her continued support and devotion to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 800

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Sean Kent is a long-time resident of the Eastern Shore and is a dedicated husband and father; and

Whereas Sean is an accomplished teacher at Eastern Shore District High; and

Whereas Sean volunteers many personal hours as coach of the school hockey and lacrosse teams;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Sean for continuing to volunteer in his community and recognizing the importance of getting involved and providing our youth with programming that is both educational and recreational.

RESOLUTION NO. 801

[Page 2366]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Garth Young of Musquodoboit Harbour has been a long-time pillar of his community; and

Whereas Garth Young is retired from the Department of Natural Resources; and

Whereas Garth Young has been a member of the Eastern Shore Ground Search and Rescue, as well as the Musquodoboit Harbour Fire Department for over 45 years;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Garth Young for his continued commitment to his community and being a wonderful role model for all citizens on the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 802

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Stefanie Condon-Oldrieve is a long-time resident of Porters Lake and is a devoted wife, mother, daughter, and community volunteer; and

Whereas Stefanie lost her father Craig in 2006 to pancreatic cancer and subsequently founded Craig's Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society in his memory, to raise money for pancreatic cancer research; and

Whereas Craig's Cause recently donated $500,000 to pancreatic researchers in Canada to assist in the search for a cure;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Stefanie Condon-Oldrieve for her devotion to the community, as well as her commitment to helping others dealing with pancreatic cancer.

RESOLUTION NO. 803

[Page 2367]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Wayne Rudolph, a pillar of his community of East Chezzetcook, has retired after a long career with the Province of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Wayne is a charter member of the Chezzetcook & District Lions Club, and has taken many roles within his Lions Club over the years, most notably King Lion, treasurer, and secretary; and

Whereas Wayne has coordinated aid to countless local individuals, families, and groups in their time of need;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Wayne Rudolph for his continued commitment to helping the people of the Chezzetcook area by his embodiment of the Lions Club motto of "We Serve."

RESOLUTION NO. 804

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Robin Webber of Upper Lakeville is a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and Lions Club member; and

Whereas Robin is a recently retired schoolteacher and owns and operates Webber's Campground in Upper Lakeville; and

Whereas Robin has volunteered his time and talents to produce and direct over 20 plays at Robert Jamison and Oyster Pond Academy Schools;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Robin Webber for his continued commitment to his community and his embodiment of the Lions Club motto of "We Serve."

RESOLUTION NO. 805

[Page 2368]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Rhonda MacFarlane is a long-time resident of Musquodoboit Harbour and is a devoted mother; and

Whereas Rhonda is self-employed and actively volunteers in the local community Peace Park Committee; and

Whereas Rhonda's son Liam is battling leukemia, and despite her personal struggles she felt there was a need to support other families facing similar challenges by making care bags with comfort items for overnight hospital visits;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Rhonda for her ongoing support to her community and being a wonderful role model for us all.

RESOLUTION NO. 806

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Tammie Swan has been a life-long resident of East Jeddore and is a devoted wife and mother; and

Whereas Tammie is employed as an educational program assistant with Halifax Regional School Board; and

Whereas Tammie is a passionate volunteer for the Marine Drive Pentecostal Church in Jeddore and a faithful volunteer for her local schools that her children attend;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Tammie for her continued support and lending her talents to her church and the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 807

[Page 2369]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Dave Roberts is a long-time resident of Oyster Pond and is a devoted husband and father; and

Whereas Dave is employed by Halifax Regional School Board as an education program assistant and is also a lead singer for the popular local musical group Blueberry Grunt; and

Whereas Dave volunteers many hours to local hockey and school sports such as lacrosse, hockey, and softball, and on several local musical concerts' sound and lighting;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Dave for being such a great role model to his peers and youth that he supports in his community, recognizing the importance of investing in our youth for a better community.

RESOLUTION NO. 808

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Debra Hines has been an active volunteer in the community of Musquodoboit Harbour for many years; and

Whereas Debra Hines is a retired schoolteacher who taught locally at Eastern Shore District High School; and

Whereas Debra Hines is a member of the Musquodoboit Harbour and District Lions Club who takes an active role in such activities as Lion's Supper, 50 Mile Yard Sale, and the Lion's Chicken Barbecue, to name a few;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Debra Hines for her continued commitment to her community and her embodiment of the Lions Club motto "We Serve."

RESOLUTION NO. 809

[Page 2370]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas Darlene Brunt is a resident of West Jeddore and is a devoted wife and mother; and

Whereas Darlene is employed with the Credit Union in Halifax; and

Whereas Darlene is always volunteering her time in the community with church, as a Pathfinder leader, and with public school activities, most recently heading up the first annual Parade of Lights in the community of Musquodoboit Harbour;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Darlene for her time and talents and taking the initiative to give back to her community of the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 810

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas Cindy Bayers is a long-time resident of Musquodoboit Harbour and a devoted wife, mother, and daughter; and

Whereas Cindy owns and operates a communication consulting business, Pebbles Communications, and also assists her husband in running a successful drywall business; and

Whereas Cindy is actively involved in fundraising for upgrades to the local community Peace Park and is also secretary for the Eastern Shore Family Resource Board;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Cindy for her dedication and continued support to her community and for being a wonderful example to her children and other fellow citizens of the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 811

[Page 2371]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Ted Webber is a lifelong resident of Lake Charlotte and has been a professional surveyor for over 40 years; and

Whereas Ted Webber has worked the family business and local landmark Webbers Store in Lake Charlotte; and

Whereas Ted Webber has been instrumental in helping in many community projects, such as the Clam Harbour Beach and Memory Lane;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Ted Webber for giving of his time and talents for the betterment of the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 812

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Shirley Hines, a lifelong resident of Head of Chezzetcook, is a widow, mother, and grandmother; and

Whereas Shirley Hines is a retired social worker; and

Whereas Shirley Hines is a well-respected pillar of her community, being very active in her church, St. Genevieve's, East Chezzetcook, and is former president of the Chezzetcook Historical Society;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Shirley Hines for giving of her time and talents for the betterment of the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 813

[Page 2372]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Maria Doyle of Musquodoboit Harbour is a devoted wife, mother and grandmother; and

Whereas Maria was an active businesswoman of the Eastern Shore, owning and operating Shop the Shore newspaper and Ups Sa Daisy flower shop; and

Whereas Maria continues to support community projects through her many volunteer efforts;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Maria Doyle for her continued commitment to helping the communities of the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 814

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Harold Baker of East Jeddore has been a long-time pillar of his community and is a devoted husband and father of two; and

Whereas Harold Baker is part owner and production manager of the family business, Bakers Point Fisheries, which employs dozens of local people; and

Whereas Harold Baker has been a member of the Musquodoboit Harbour and District Lions Club and contributes his leadership, time and talents to countless community events and initiatives;

Therefore be it resolved that the Members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Harold Baker for his continued commitment to serving the Eastern Shore area and for his embodiment of the Lions Club motto, "We serve."

RESOLUTION NO. 815

[Page 2373]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Donald Russell of Upper Lakeville is a pillar of his community and is a devoted husband and father; and

Whereas Donald Russell is a retired schoolteacher and principal; and

Whereas Donald Russell is a member of the Musquodoboit Harbour and District Lions Club, a Scout leader and an active theatre volunteer for over 20 years with the Oyster Pond Academy and the Robert Jamison School;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Donald Russell for his continued commitment to the Eastern Shore area and his embodiment of the Lions Club motto, "We serve."

RESOLUTION NO. 816

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas in 1994 the Black Learners Advisory Committee on Education delivered an invaluable report; and

Whereas the issue, as stated in the report's introduction, was that most African Canadian children are, from birth, trapped in a vicious cycle of societal rejection and isolation, poverty, low expectations, and low educational achievement; and

Whereas the establishment of the African Canadian Services Division within the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development brought into the system the strategies and tools to make opportunities happen, and address inequities within schools;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize the Black Educators Association who, through the BLAC Report, laid the foundation to educate all Nova Scotians about the rich history and culture of African Canadians.

RESOLUTION NO. 817

[Page 2374]

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Mr. Jimi Swinamer, former police officer, current business owner and lifelong biker, hosts the Bikers Helping Bikers BBQ Wednesday evenings in Sackville throughout the summer months; and

Whereas Mr. Swinamer, along with Marlene Roach, widow of biker Todd "Toad" Roach, founded Toad's Memorial Fund supported through profits from the Bikers Helping Bikers BBQ; and

Whereas Toad's Memorial Fund, incorporated in 2008, is a not-for-profit organization, charging no membership fees to anyone holding a Nova Scotia motorcycle driver's licence, offers financial help to bikers and their families after a motorcycle crash;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Jimi Swinamer for his caring concern and dedication to helping his fellow bikers and their families.

RESOLUTION NO. 818

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Ms. Susan Doyle of Beaver Bank, the mother of a teen with the learning disability apraxia, with a mild global developmental delay, searching for secondary education opportunities for her son, found Axcess Acadia, the Inclusive Post-Secondary Education program currently offered at Acadia University; and

Whereas Ms. Doyle's learning the program did not qualify for student loan funding, and being determined to have her son reach his full potential, proceeded to establish the IPSE Bursary Fund to benefit any high-functioning student with learning disabilities; and

Whereas Ms. Doyle's son, with the help of the IPSE Bursary, is now in residence at Acadia University, enrolled in the Axcess Acadia science program;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize that through the efforts of Ms. Doyle, other students will have access to financial support if they choose to attend university in an Inclusive Post-Secondary Education program.

[Page 2375]

RESOLUTION NO. 819

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Mr. Ernest Kelsey, a lifelong resident of Middle Sackville, and currently of Lucasville, celebrated his 100^th birthday on September 7^th, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and friends; and

Whereas Mr. Kelsey raised his family in Middle Sackville, working first at CNR, then Superior Propane, and finally retiring from the V.G. Hospital as a mechanical maintenance person at the age of 65; and

Whereas Mr. Kelsey now resides with his daughter, Virginia, he reads his Bible twice daily and finds pleasure in playing guitar for family and friends;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Mr. Kelsey on reaching the great age of 100, and wish him continued health and happiness.

RESOLUTION NO. 820

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Ms. Katelyn Jessome, Millwood High in Sackville, received the Lieutenant Governor's Award in June 2014 for her commendable academic performance, demonstrated qualities of leadership, and service in the school and community; and

Whereas Ms. Jessome has a passion for theatre and sports, and also strives to make her school a safe and welcoming place to be; and

Whereas Ms. Jessome is part of the Free the Children group at Millwood High and plans to take part in the Me to We Trip to Ghana, West Africa, in 2015, to build a school for a community in need;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Katelyn Jessome for her dedication to her school and service to her community.

[Page 2376]

RESOLUTION NO. 821

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Mr. Lyle Bagnell of Sackville High in Sackville, received the Lieutenant Governor's Award in June 2014 for his commendable academic performance, demonstrating qualities of leadership and service to the school and community; and

Whereas Lyle is a well-rounded and respected student who stands out through his diligent work ethic, insightful contributions, genuine care and concern for others, and his natural leadership capabilities, and

Whereas Lyle is an exceptional student, giving freely of his time and sharing his knowledge and expertise with his peers, as well as often giving time to many local organizations, especially those supporting children with Autism;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Lyle Bagnell for his dedication to his academic studies and his commitment to his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 822

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Ms. Julia Baak of Sackville High in Sackville, received the Lieutenant Governor's Award in June 2014 for her commendable academic performance, demonstrated qualities of leadership and service to the school and community; and

Whereas Julia maintains one of the top averages in Grade 11, while still finding time to participate in extracurricular activities and volunteering in the community; and

Whereas Julie is an exceptional student who shows great care and concern for animals, demonstrated through her work with the Companion Animal Shelter;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Julie Baak for her dedication to her academic studies and her commitment to giving back to her community.

[Page 2377]

RESOLUTION NO. 823

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Mr. Jacob MacLellan of Millwood High in Sackville, received the Lieutenant Governor's Award in June 2014, for his commendable academic performance, demonstrating qualities of leadership and service in the school and community; and

Whereas Jacob is a dedicated student, committed athlete and community volunteer, his many accomplishments include Athletic Awards for his dedication to sports, volunteer work with elementary schools and the local SPCA, as well as the completion of a five-week Immersion Certificate program at St. Anne's; and

Whereas Jacob is entering grade 12 and already the recipient of a scholarship from Nacel Canada to attend school in Quebec;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Jacob MacLellan for his significant accomplishments and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 824

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Mr. Walter Scott has been a committed volunteer with Fish Friends, a program sponsored by Sackville Rivers Association since 2007; and

Whereas Mr. Scott, a retired school teacher, is one of the education co-ordinators for the programs that install aquariums in schools and stock them so students see the life cycle of the fish until they are released into rivers by the River Rangers program as fish fry; and

Whereas Mr. Scott has conducted Fish Education programs to 21 classes throughout HRM schools, receiving positive feedback from students, teachers and parents;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Walter Scott for his dedication to affording children and adults a hands-on approach to understanding and protecting our natural environment.

[Page 2378]

RESOLUTION NO. 825

By: Mr. Stephen Gough « » (Sackville-Beaver Bank)

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

Whereas Mr. Mike Mackasey has been a committed volunteer with Fish Friends, a program sponsored by the Sackville Rivers Association for several years; and

Whereas Mr. Mackasey, a retired school teacher, is one of the education co-ordinators who install aquariums in schools and stock them so students see the life cycle until they are released into the rivers by the River Rangers program as fish fry; and

Whereas Mr. Mackasey has conducted Fish Education programs in 21 classes throughout HRM schools, receiving positive feedback from students, teachers and parents;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize Mike Mackasey for his dedication to affording children and adults a hands-on approach to understanding and protecting our natural environment.

RESOLUTION NO. 826

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Bruce Harvey has a total of 36 years' work experience with Home Hardware stores; and

Whereas at Ettinger's Home Hardware in Shubenacadie, Bruce always greets the customers with a warm welcome; and

Whereas Bruce's wonderful personality and expertise in everything from plumbing parts to building houses keep people coming back to him for advice;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Bruce Harvey on receiving the East Hants and Districts Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Customer Service (Individual) 2014 award.

[Page 2379]

RESOLUTION NO. 827

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas in 1992, after working 17 years in the hospitality industry, Susie MacDonell started her own business, Catering Unlimited, in Hailfax, and in 2004 moved it to Elmsdale; and

Whereas Catering Unlimited caters all over Nova Scotia and parts of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and currently employs up to 30 staff at a time; and

Whereas Susie is committed to her community and is a strong supporter of local businesses and strives to buy local;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly congratulate Catering Unlimited on receiving the East Hants and Districts Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year 2014 award.

RESOLUTION NO. 828

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Jeffrey Leahy of Elmsdale for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Jeffrey's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 25 years.

[Page 2380]

RESOLUTION NO. 829

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Justice paid special recognition to Karen Forsyth-McNeil of Mount Uniacke for her 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Karen's commitment and thank her for the excellent service she has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 25 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 830

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Office of Service Nova Scotia paid special recognition to Kathy Darlene Smith of Mount Uniacke for her 35 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Kathy Darlene's commitment and thank her for the excellent service she has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 35 years.

[Page 2381]

RESOLUTION NO. 831

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Michael Milburn of Hardwood Lands for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Michael's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 25 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 832

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Roderick Swistun of Elmsdale for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Roderick's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 25 years.

[Page 2382]

RESOLUTION NO. 833

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Justice paid special recognition to Victor Muise of Mount Uniacke for his 40 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Victor's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 40 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 834

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Timothy L. Nevin on being elected and wish him success in his new position.

RESOLUTION NO. 835

[Page 2383]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Thomas J. Howe on being re-elected and wish him success in his position.

RESOLUTION NO. 836

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Michelle (McDonald) Glasgow on being re-elected and wish her success in her new position.

RESOLUTION NO. 837

[Page 2384]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation Community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Keith J. Julian on being re-elected and wish him continued success in his position.

RESOLUTION NO. 838

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Jerry F. Sack on being re-elected and wish him continued success in his new position.

RESOLUTION NO. 839

[Page 2385]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Glen Patrick Knockwood on being elected and wish him success in his new position.

RESOLUTION NO. 840

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Earl Sack on being re-elected and wish him continued success in his new position.

RESOLUTION NO. 841

[Page 2386]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Doreen E. Knockwood on being re-elected and wish her continuing success in her position.

RESOLUTION NO. 842

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Colleen Mary Knockwood on being re-elected and wish her continued success in her position.

RESOLUTION NO. 843

[Page 2387]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Chief Rufus Copage on being re-elected and wish him continued success in his position.

RESOLUTION NO. 844

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014 the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Cheryl Maloney on being elected and wish her success in her new position.

RESOLUTION NO. 845

[Page 2388]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotion stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department volunteer Gary McLearn was presented with a Certificate of Contribution for his help in enduring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Gary McLearn for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 846

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotion stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department volunteer Burton Baker was presented with a Certificate of Contribution for his help in enduring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Burton Baker for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 847

[Page 2389]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotion stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department volunteer Doug Tanner was presented with a Certificate of Contribution for his help in enduring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Doug Tanner for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 848

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas ladies auxiliaries are the often quiet yet unwavering backbone for volunteer fire departments across Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary was recognized at this celebration for its many years of hard work and support of the community and fire service;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank the Ladies Auxiliary for its many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 849

[Page 2390]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotion stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department volunteer Larry Owen was presented with a Certificate of Contribution for his help in enduring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Larry Owen for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 850

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotion stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department volunteer Perry Baker was absent but recognized for his help in ensuring the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Perry Baker for his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 851

[Page 2391]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire departments are made up of individuals who show their dedication by contributing hard work, skills, frequently risking their lives, and dealing with incidents of great emotion stress; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 40 years of service on July 13, 2014; and

Whereas Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department current Fire Chief Wayne Miller was presented with a Certificate of Contribution for his help to ensure the safety of his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Wayne Miller his many years of service to the Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 852

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the office of Service Nova Scotia paid special recognition to Jean Marie Jackson of Mount Uniacke for her 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Jean Marie's commitment and thank her for the excellent service she has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 853

[Page 2392]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism paid special recognition to Janette Wallace of Milford for her 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Janette's commitment and thank her for the excellent service she has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 854

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal CUPE paid special recognition to Darrell Barron of Kennetcook for his 30 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Darrell's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 855

[Page 2393]

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia civil servants work every day on the front lines providing the residents of this province the services they need; and

Whereas the Long Service Awards give Nova Scotia the opportunity to recognize public servants for their hard work and dedication to serving the public of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the Department of Justice paid special recognition to Brian Ogilvie of Elmsdale for his 25 years of dedication and service to the Government of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Brian's commitment and thank him for the excellent service he has provided to the people of Nova Scotia over the past 30 years.

RESOLUTION NO. 856

By: Ms. Margaret Miller « » (Hants East)

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

Whereas the Mi'kmaq were the founding people of Nova Scotia and their spirituality and environmental consciousness remains an important part of this province; and

Whereas members of the First Nations bands entrust their future to their elected officials; and

Whereas on November 2, 2014, the First Nation community of Sipekne'katik held their band election;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Alexander (Butchie) McDonald on being re-elected and wish him success in his position.

RESOLUTION NO. 857

[Page 2394]

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Halifax Citadel-Sable Island)

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

Whereas on September 18, 2014, provincial public servants were presented with Long Service Awards for their dedication to the Province of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Mr. Dean Hirtle, a resident of Halifax Citadel-Sable Island currently working with the Department of Health and Wellness, received a Long Service Award for 35 years of service; and

Whereas Mr. Hirtle has demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to the Province of Nova Scotia over the course of his career;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly thank Mr. Hirtle for his 35 years of service.