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HALIFAX, TUESDAY, MAY 17, 2016

Sixty-second General Assembly

Second Session

1:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Mr. Gordon Wilson, Mr. Keith Irving

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

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

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

Bill No. 177 - Municipal Government Act and Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

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

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

The honourable Minister of Justice.

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

Bill No. 171 - Art Gallery of Nova Scotia Act.

Bill No. 174 - Financial Measures (2016) Act.

and the committee recommends these bills to the favourable consideration of the House, each without amendment.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON » : Mr. Speaker, as per the resolution passed on Friday, I move that the bills presented from Law Amendments Committee be added to the order paper for consideration today.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Community Services.

RESOLUTION NO. 3944

HON. JOANNE BERNARD « » : Mr. Speaker, it's my pleasure to read the following Government Notice of Motion and, probably in my tenure as minister and a member of the House, one that is most personal to me.

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

Whereas May 17^th is International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia; and

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Whereas the goal of this day is to draw the attention of policy-makers, opinion leaders, social movements, and public and media to the violence and discrimination experienced by the LGBTI global community; and

Whereas advocates from all corners of the world continue to fight for the right to be free from criminalization, persecution, and stigmatization;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House, and all Nova Scotians, be accepting of people for who they are and that they make a concerted effort to end discrimination inside and outside the workplace.

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.

The honourable Minister of the Public Service Commission.

HON. LABI KOUSOULIS « » : Mr. Speaker, before I introduce this motion, may I make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. KOUSOULIS « » : In the east gallery I'd like to welcome members of government's LGBTI Network. Our LGBTI Network and staff from the Public Service Commission have been instrumental in the creation of government's Guidelines to Support Trans and Gender Variant Employees.

Government released the guidelines earlier today, making Nova Scotia the first provincial Public Service in Canada to do so. I ask that all of us in the House give a round of applause to show our support for their work and for guidelines released this morning.

I'd ask them to stand as I call out their names for a round of applause: Maddi MacDonald, Daniel Redmond, Heather Parsons, Joseph Fraser, Allan Pedersen, Judie Edgar, Laura Barbour, and Robert Morris. (Applause)

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

RESOLUTION NO. 3945

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

Whereas today, May 17^th, is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, a day of great significance to the LGBTIQ community, recognized in more than 130 countries around the world; and

Whereas today government released its Guidelines to Support Trans and Gender Variant Employees, becoming the first provincial Public Service to do so; and

Whereas these guidelines provide clarity on how trans and gender variant employees are valued, supported, and included in the workplace;

Therefore be it resolved that government is committed to creating a safe, respectful, diverse, and inclusive work environment that is free of discrimination and removes barriers to employment and inclusion for marginalized Nova Scotians.

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.

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : May I make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. GLAVINE « » : Joining us in the gallery this afternoon, it's my pleasure to introduce the executive director of Nourish Nova Scotia, Margo Riebe-Butt, RD. I would like for Margo to rise and all members of the House to give her a warm welcome. (Applause)

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

RESOLUTION NO. 3946

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

Whereas Nourish Nova Scotia is a non-profit group that aims to teach young people the basics of nutrition and healthy eating; and

Whereas Nourish funds breakfast programs in schools, with 4.5 million breakfasts served across the province in a single year; and

Whereas through fundraisers like the Brown Bag Challenge, healthy food school fundraisers, and its own Blue Nose Marathon team, Nourish hopes to help even more Nova Scotian youth reap the basics of growing, cooking, and enjoying healthy food;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House thank the staff and volunteers with Nourish Nova Scotia for their work to improve the health of Nova Scotia children.

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.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 3947

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

Whereas every Nova Scotian has a right to live and work in a safe community; and

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Whereas the presence of restricted or prohibited firearms in our communities poses a danger to our families, our friends, our neighbours, and the wider communities in which we live; and

Whereas police agencies across our province are working together on a province-wide initiative to increase public and police officer safety, by assisting owners of weapons to properly register or relinquish their firearms;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House, on behalf of all Nova Scotians, support the RCMP, our provincial police services, and the Safe Communities Initiative to encourage citizens to register their guns or turn in unwanted firearms to help improve public safety.

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.

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : May I make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. GLAVINE « » : Joining us in the gallery this afternoon, it's my pleasure to introduce representatives from the Blue Nose Marathon run: co-founders Gerry Walsh and Rod McCulloch, and Rod's 2-year-old grandson, Sionnach, who was one of the youngest to run in last year's event. They're already standing, so let's give them a warm welcome to the Legislature. (Applause)

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

RESOLUTION NO. 3948

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

Whereas this weekend the streets of Halifax and Dartmouth will be filled with runners and walkers having fun and staying active as part of the 13^th Annual Scotiabank Blue Nose Marathon; and

Whereas Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run on Saturday morning is Canada's largest, attracting 3,700 young runners; and

Whereas runners will be raising money for 80 local charities and last year raised $530,000 for worthy causes;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the organizers and volunteers of this year's Scotiabank Blue Nose Marathon weekend and wish all participants an excellent race.

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.

The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

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

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. CASEY « » : I would ask that all members turn their attention to the Speaker's Gallery where we will find a very special guest, someone who has been with us in this gallery many times. She is friends of people on both sides of the House; I would say in particular the member for Yarmouth, the member for Argyle-Barrington, and the member for Colchester North. I would ask Joyce Nickerson to stand please. Joyce has been in this House many times. She has never been in the Speaker's Gallery, this is a special honour. So, let us welcome Joyce to the House. (Applause)

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I am not sure that Joyce will allow me to reveal her age, but she is between 80 and 90, and she is halfway between. Thank you.

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

RESOLUTION NO. 3949

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

Whereas the wildfire tragedy that has unfolded in Fort McMurray, Alberta, over the past couple of weeks has destroyed thousands of homes and key infrastructure in the city; and

Whereas residents of Fort McMurray were forced to evacuate their homes and find a safe place to live while dealing with the devastating impact of the disaster on themselves and their families; and

Whereas some of those who fled Fort McMurray with their families are now living in Nova Scotia and schools across the province are welcoming dozens of these students so they can continue their education and receive support during this difficult time;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature join me in welcoming and supporting the families and children from Fort McMurray into our communities and our schools as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives.

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.

The honourable Minister of Immigration.

HON. LENA DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I ask your permission to make an introduction.

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MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. DIAB « » : I would like to draw everyone's attention please to the east gallery. I am delighted to introduce representatives with us in Nova Scotia today from the Canadian Red Cross whom I have had the pleasure of meeting and exchanging very valuable information over the last two days. I am going to ask each of the five to please stand when I read your name and remain standing in order to receive the welcome of the House. First, Mr. Conrad Sauvé, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Red Cross; Ronan Ryan, Chief Development Officer for Canada; Louise Castonguay, Vice-President Atlantic; Ismael Aquino, Provincial Director for Nova Scotia; and Brigid Savage, Director of Philanthropy.

Mr. Speaker and all members, the Canadian Red Cross has played a key role in welcoming Syrian refugees to Canada and has recently put forth an outstanding effort and I ask all members of the Legislature to give them a very warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

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

RESOLUTION NO. 3950

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

Whereas the Canadian Red Cross' mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world including, as of today, collecting more than $92 million for those affected by the wildfires in Fort McMurray; and

Whereas Conrad Sauvé, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Red Cross visited the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration yesterday, along with partners, to discuss the Red Cross's work in Nova Scotia, including our coordinated response to the Syrian refugee crisis, the Fort McMurray relief effort, and further opportunities for collaboration; and

Whereas this morning, the Red Cross officially opened a new Centre for Excellence in Disaster Management and I am so proud that Nova Scotia was chosen as the location for advanced emergency training that will benefit Red Cross volunteers from all over Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Legislature thank the Canadian Red Cross for responding to major incidents at home and abroad, and helping Canadians care for Canadians.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please revert to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

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

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister of the Public Service Commission, I wish to table Guidelines to Support Trans and Gender Variant Employees.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The report is tabled.

The honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg.

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I wonder if I could have permission to make an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'd ask all members of the House to bring their attention to the west gallery, where today we have a very special person who has done a lot of work with the Mental Health Foundation of the Province of Nova Scotia. I met her through a mutual friend, and I would ask Laurel Walker to stand and take the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

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

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HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask all members to address their attention to the west gallery. I would like to introduce a very good friend of Cayley's. He's also a producer and director of a very powerful and emotional video, Mr. Speaker - a video that I think everyone should see. I'd ask all members of the House to give Scott Hastings a welcome to the House. (Applause)

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, we also have a number of friends of Cayley's here as well, so I would ask them to stand and receive the warm welcome of the House: Pam Livingstone, Sandy Morash, and Pam MacLean-Veysey. Thank you for being here today. (Applause)

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

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, if I may introduce a couple of Cayley Fox's friends as well?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. ORRELL « » : Pam Kaiser and Tamara Boucher, both good friends of Ms. Cayley Fox. (Applause)

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

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. MACMASTER « » : I'd ask Mr. Russ Purchase, the friend and neighbour of Cayley Fox, to rise and receive the applause of the House. (Applause)

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

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Yes, I beg leave to make an introduction, Mr. Speaker?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. HARRISON « » : In the west gallery, I would ask Cayley's friend Kayla Rafuse to stand please. (Applause)

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

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : I beg leave to make an introduction, Mr. Speaker.

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MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. LOHR « » : Again, in the west gallery, I'd like to call the House's attention to Brandon White, Cayley Fox's former boyfriend. (Applause)

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

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, on an introduction with your okay.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. BAILLIE « » : I'm just really honoured to introduce Tessa O'Donnell, she was a good friend of Cayley Fox. Her courage is on display in the video we're talking about and she's here in the west gallery. I'd like all members to welcome her. (Applause)

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

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, permission to make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Seated in the west gallery today we have Carolyn Fox, Cayley's mother. I'd just like to thank Carolyn for her courage and for sharing Cayley's story with us and trying to be a voice for positive change. If all members could please give Carolyn a welcome, it would be much appreciated. (Applause)

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 186 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 511 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Youth Secretariat Act. (Mr. Tim Houston)

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

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

MS. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. ARAB « » : I'd like to draw the members' attention to the east gallery, where today we are joined by members of the Fairview Junior High girls' basketball team and their coaches and principal. If I could ask each of the girls and the coaches to rise as I call their name, to receive the warm welcome of the House: Guard Josee Hanson, Forward Olivia Kiley, Forward Annie Yeo, Guard Aaliyah Arab Smith, Coaches John Moshett and Paul Simmonds, and Principal Peter Wicha. If I could ask the members to give them the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

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

FAIRVIEW JR. HS GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM/COACHES:

SEASON (2015-16) - CONGRATS.

MS. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Fairview Junior High School girls' basketball team for an amazing 2015-16 season. In the regional semifinal playoff game, they defeated Rocky Lake Junior High by a score of 50 to 49, moving on to the regional championship final, where they defeated Bicentennial Junior High 71 to 64 in overtime.

Special thanks must go out to their coaches, Paul Simmonds and John Moshett, for their great coaching skills and for helping this team win regional championships for the very first time in the school's history.

Mr. Speaker, I wish this amazing group of strong female leaders every success in the future.

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

GIVIN' BACK TO THE MAC CONCERT: ORGANIZERS/VOLS./PERFORMERS - THANK

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a very proud Cape Bretoner. On Sunday, May 15^th, Centre 200 was jammed with its second-largest crowd ever. The people were there to attend a concert to support the victims of Fort McMurray's devastating fire.

Organized by the CBRM, local musicians, support staff, police, and others volunteered their time and talents to entertain over 5,000 ticket holders. At the end of the evening, over $0.25 million was raised to support the efforts at Fort McMurray.

It's my honour to thank all those who made the Givin' Back to the Mac concert a raging success. This is what Cape Bretoners do: we stand together and we stand up.

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

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INTL. DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA, TRANSPHOBIA & BIPHOBIA (06/17/16) - SUPPORTIVE HOUSING

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Today is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. The goal is to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTIQ people. Young queer and trans people who experience homophobia and transphobia within their families are often kicked out or forced to leave. Queer and trans poverty and homelessness are associated with increases in substance abuse, mental health disorders, sexual abuse, and other forms of violence.

According to a fact sheet produced by the United Way, we can support queer and trans communities by building social housing, increasing supportive housing for people with (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order.

The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

MS. ZANN « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that.

According to a fact sheet produced by the United Way, we can support queer and trans communities by building social housing, increasing supportive housing for people with mental health issues, providing access to safe health care, implementing policies that combat discrimination, and increasing the minimum wage.

I call on all members of this House to join the global celebration of sexual and gender identities.

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

MASON, GARY: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, this past winter, we lost one of the province's premier educators far before his time. Gary Mason, a long-time teacher, administrator, and community pillar, passed away suddenly, leaving behind a loving family. He also left behind an extraordinary legacy of education.

That legacy will live on, thanks in part to Literacy Nova Scotia in the form of the 2016 Gary Mason Learner Achievement Award. Even though he had officially retired, Gary continued to teach in the field of adult education. This award recognizes the outstanding achievements of an adult learner in Nova Scotia. The winner will be chosen by a committee from Literacy Nova Scotia.

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Gary was a man of many talents. There really was very little he could not do. Sports, academics, trade work, information technology - he mastered them all, but education was his true calling, and I am proud to say that this award has been named in his honour.

I ask all members of the House to join me in recognizing the life and career of Gary Mason and the award named in his honour.

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

WATTERS, CST. KYLE/SMITH, CST. RYAN:

NEW GLASGOW REG. POLICE - SWEARING-IN

HON. PAT DUNN « » : The New Glasgow Regional Police welcomed two new officers to their force on Thursday, May 12^th. Constable Kyle Watters and Constable Ryan Smith are valued members, following an official swearing-in ceremony at the New Glasgow Town Hall. Both constables are recent graduates of the Atlantic Police Academy.

They bring new ideas and creativity from their recent training. They'll join their colleagues attending evolving training programs because in policing, it's always a learning environment. The New Glasgow Regional Police currently has 38 officers, which includes specialized units such as street crimes, cyber, K9, Ident, and community policing.

I encourage all members of the Legislature to wish Kyle and Ryan very successful careers.

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

MILNE, MS. SYDNEY - PUBLIC SPEAKING ACHIEVEMENTS

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Ms. Sydney Milne, representing the Colebrook Lions Club, was recently selected as the Lions Zone 6 Speak Out representative. But Ms. Milne didn't stop there - her speech on mental illness also won the provincial District N2 Competition in Baddeck, Cape Breton. Her next challenge is the Atlantic competition in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Lions Speak Out competition provides students from Grades 9 to 12 the opportunity to speak on a topic of their choosing in a public setting. A panel of judges at each level rates them against each other and provides feedback. The ability to speak effectively in front of an audience is a valued life skill that builds self-confidence and leadership skills.

On behalf of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, I would like to congratulate Ms. Milne on her public speaking achievements and wish her all the best at the Atlantic championships.

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

SMITH, HANNAH: ANNA. VALLEY APPLE BLOSSOM FEST.

- PRINCESS KENTVILLE

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : I rise today to inform members that Hannah Smith of Kentville has been chosen as Princess Kentville. Hannah will proudly represent her community as a participant in the highly respected Queen Annapolisa Pageant, which will take place during the 84^th Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival this year.

Hannah is a student at Saint Mary's University and has represented her school, volunteering as a student ambassador at SMU's Career Café for future students, a peer mentor, and a representative of the SMU LEAP Program at the Sobey School of Business.

Please join me in congratulating Hannah on this milestone accomplishment and wish her all the best in her future endeavours and in pageant activities.

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

LAW REFORM COMMN. - FUNDING ELIMINATION

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : When I questioned the minister on her decision to eliminate funding to the Law Reform Commission, she stated that the commission was "a nice thing to have" and that it was important for me to know that the federal government does not have a Law Reform Commission.

I do know that the federal government does not have a Law Reform Commission - it was eliminated by the Harper Conservative Government. I also know that the work of the Law Reform Commission here in Nova Scotia is more than just "a nice thing to have" and we have found out today that the entire legal community of Nova Scotia does as well.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sackville-Beaver Bank.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING - FIGHT: POLICE/MILITARY PERSONNEL - THANK

MR. STEPHEN GOUGH « » : At the recent Leadership Prayer Breakfast, keynote speaker Brian McConaghy described the horrific details of what he was exposed to and witnessed in dealing with the issue of human trafficking both here and abroad. It is an issue that is ongoing, exists world-wide, and happens right here in Nova Scotia.

Children and young women are the primary targets, and it is our societal and moral obligation to do whatever we can to protect them against these atrocities. We cannot tolerate those who strip others of their fundamental rights as human beings.

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I would like to thank all policing and military personnel who wage this battle against human trafficking. It takes courage not only to fight this on the front lines but to deal with the personal trauma of witnessing what no human being should have to.

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

INTL. DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA, BIPHOBIA & TRANSPHOBIA

- EFFORTS COMMEND

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, today is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. This day is a reminder of the ongoing efforts to build a society that is truly inclusive and free, a society that is free from discrimination, free from fear, free for each individual to be themselves and to be full participants in our society.

Mr. Speaker, as long as one Nova Scotian is held back because of who they are, we are all held back. Thank you to all those who continue the cause of freedom and diversity and inclusion on this, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

PTSD: FIRST RESPONDERS - WORK-RELATED COVERAGE

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : It's time this government stopped making excuses and started taking action to provide support to emergency responders dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. Last month the Ontario Legislature, by a vote of 96 to 0, passed a bill into law that assumes PTSD is work-related for first responders.

The legislation was not as broad as I would have liked to have seen but the steps taken were urgent and important. No longer will paramedics, firefighters or police officers have to prove that their PTSD is related to their job. The Nova Scotia emergency responders put their lives on the line to protect the public. We need to ensure they receive the care they need when they need it most.

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

CAREGIVERS AWARENESS MO. (05/16) - CAREGIVERS THANK

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MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : I rise today to speak about all the caregivers within our communities who sacrifice much of their own time to care for others. Caregivers Nova Scotia will be recognizing and celebrating the unpaid caregivers in our communities by holding caregiver appreciation teas all around the province this month.

Caregivers are an imperative part of our society. They provide support, compassion and care to allow people who receive their care to have a better quality of life. Mr. Speaker, I ask that the members of this House join me today to thank the caregivers and to recognize May as Caregiver Awareness Month.

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

MACLEOD, MAGGIE - ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Maggie MacLeod of Juniper Mountain who has been added to the Dalhousie AC Rams program for the Fall. Maggie is a product of the Riverview Royals volleyball team and is enrolled in Dalhousie Pre-Veterinary Medicine program at the school's Agricultural Campus.

Maggie helped Riverview to a fifth place finish at the Division 1 Provincial Championships and won a silver at the provincials with the Highland Patriots Under-18 club program. I am proud to congratulate Maggie MacLeod on both her academic and athletic achievements as she continues on with her very bright future.

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

ROSEWAY HOSP. ER - CLOSURES

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, this Liberal Government seems to be sick of hearing about the closures at Roseway ER in Shelburne. Well, unfortunately for them, the Roseway ER was closed yet again this week. Last night the ER closed at 6:00 p.m. and did not open until this morning at 8:00 a.m., a total of 14 hours.

I would suggest to the members opposite that if they are tired of hearing me detail the more than 500 hours of closures at the ER, they should ask the Minister of Health and Wellness to finally take action on the plan he promised the community a few months ago. The people of rural Nova Scotia feel like their health does not matter to this government. To be continued.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Waverley-Fall River- Beaver Bank.

PEYTON, LARRY: LIGHTHOUSES - DRONE PHOTOS

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MR. BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Larry Peyton of Waverley who has taken on a project to capture drone footage of every lighthouse in Nova Scotia. While visiting in Cape Breton last Fall and taking drone photos of a lighthouse there, Larry saw the beauty in these structures that dot the Nova Scotia coastline. After discovering that there were 170 lighthouses in Nova Scotia, he decided to make it a goal to capture drone footage of each one. His plan is to document the beauty and preserve the history of each lighthouse.

Larry, who already videoed many of these lighthouses, is creating short videos for his YouTube channel for people to view. I congratulate Larry on his work documenting this scenic part of maritime history, and wish him every success.

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

NEW TO YOU THRIFT STORE (TRURO) - ANNIV. 20^th

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize an endeavour that has provided a meeting place for thrifty shoppers, employment, and social interaction for people with intellectual disabilities and public education with respect to the meaningful contributions that individuals with intellectual disabilities can make to our communities. I am speaking about the New to You thrift store, operated by Colchester Community Workshops in Rotary House on Arthur Street in Truro.

The store, which is celebrating its 20^th Anniversary this year, involves clients in every aspect of operations, from receiving and pricing to greeting customers and working the cash register. I commend operations manager Susan McCallum and workshop staff for providing a service that benefits its clients and offers a unique shopping experience to residents of Truro, Colchester County, and beyond.

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

PATON, PHYLLIS - BMO AWARD

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I'd like to tell you about a very successful businesswoman from my riding of Bedford. Phyllis Paton founded Maritime Dance Academy 34 years ago. It is now Atlantic Canada's largest dance studio, so it should come as no surprise that Phyllis was one of three business leaders recognized by BMO earlier this month. She was honoured for expansion and growth in small business.

On a personal note, I'd like to mention that Phyllis and her team at Maritime Dance fostered the love of dance in so many children and adults, including two of my children. I'd like to congratulate Phyllis on the well-deserved award and thank BMO for supporting women-led businesses and for recognizing women business leaders.

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

COPELAND, JUSTUS/MACPHEE, JERICO - JIU-JITSU ACHIEVEMENTS

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate Springhill brothers Justus Copeland and Jerico MacPhee, who recently won gold in jiu-jitsu at the Nova Scotia Open. Justus and Jerico fought in the amateur division in different weight classes. They have been training and fighting together since 2012. Their most recent MMA wins last September were at the Cage Rage Unfinished Business bout, which was held at the Moncton Lions Club. The brothers train at Cumberland Mixed Martial Arts in Amherst.

Congratulations to Justus Copeland and Jerico MacPhee on their wins. I wish them continued success in all their future endeavours.

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

JUDGES SALARIES - TRIBUNAL RECOMMENDATIONS:

ENDING - CONSULTATION

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, this government's decision to end the binding nature of tribunal recommendations on judges' salaries is not sitting well with the legal community. Yesterday at Law Amendments Committee, numerous presenters noted that for decades the system in place has allowed for clear judicial independence without unreasonable raises or unnecessary costly litigation.

Presenters also voiced their displeasure with the lack of consultation on this issue, which has become a trademark of this government. They argued that burying such an important decision within a budget bill is a particularly low blow, given the constitutional importance of the concept of judicial independence.

Mr. Speaker, it seems we are on the cusp of yet another ill-advised decision by a short-sighted government.

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

TAYLOR, SARAH - ATHLETIC/ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize an amazing young athlete who continues to challenge herself to excel in her chosen sport. As a Park View Education Centre student and athlete, Sarah Taylor caught the eye of numerous scouts from various universities across Canada and the United States. Recruited to Boise State University in Idaho on a full athletic scholarship, Sarah plays midfield for the Boise State University Broncos women's soccer team.

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Her recent level of play has earned her selection to the Canadian National Under-20 women's soccer team and the opportunity to represent her country at the FIFA Under-20 Women's World Cup in Papua, New Guinea, later this year.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate Sarah on this amazing opportunity, wish her the very best in her future athletic and academic pursuits, and further wish her well in all her future endeavours.

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

LAVERY, FRED: GIVIN' BACK TO THE MAC CONCERT - EFFORTS THANK

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Fred Lavery, a partner in Lakewind Sound Studios. Fred has been a driving force in the music industry in Cape Breton for decades. He was a key player making the Givin' Back to the Mac concert a huge success.

We were told that two phone calls made that happen within 10 days - one phone call to Paul MacDonald at Centre 200, and one phone call to Fred Lavery. Fred arranged the volunteer pool that filled Centre 200 to capacity and raised over $250,000 in just one night to help the displaced people of Fort McMurray.

It is my honour to recognize this Cape Breton icon who built the Cape Breton music machine.

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

JONES, DR. LYNN: ACADIA UNIV. - HON. DEGREE

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : On May 16, 2016, Acadia University awarded an honorary degree to Lynn Jones. Dr. Jones is an activist, community organizer, labour leader, and inspiring speaker who has shared her experiences, wisdom, and expertise in Canada and on the world stage.

Born in Truro, she became active in the Public Service Alliance of Canada. In 1991, she was elected vice-president of the Canadian Labour Congress and became the first African Canadian to join CLC's executive. On behalf of the CLC, she co-chaired the first national anti-racism task force in Canada. She's the recipient of many awards, including the Queen's Medal, Congress of Black Women of Excellence Award, and Nova Scotia Federation of Human Rights.

It's my great pleasure to congratulate my friend Dr. Lynn Jones on this latest accolade.

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

WALLER, JACK/SAUNDERS, KEN - COMMUN. CONTRIBUTIONS

MS. PATRICIA ARAB « » : I rise today to recognize Jack Waller and Ken Saunders, two outstanding volunteers and constituents of Fairview-Clayton Park.

Jack and Ken have selflessly dedicated their time and energy to advocating on behalf of the Fairview community. They are proud community members who seek daily to improve the lives of residents and to raise awareness of the attributes of Fairview. Jack and Ken are compassionate, knowledgeable volunteers who have a deep passion for Fairview and its residents. Their expertise is regularly sought by the Fairview Community Association, people hosting annual community events, the Fairview Historical Society, the Mobile Food Bus, and other more informal gatherings.

I wish to recognize Jack Waller and Ken Saunders for their significant contributions to our community, and wish them every future success.

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

PETTIPAS, CHELSEA - MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Chelsea Pettipas of Linacy is an extraordinary young lady. She sees and understands the weaknesses in the mental health services that are available to Nova Scotians, particularly in Pictou County. In January, she created a short documentary in which she profiled a number of people and talked to them about their experiences in dealing with the system that's there, and some of the shortcomings in the system.

I want to ask all members of this House to congratulate Chelsea as we try to bring attention to the cause that she is working so hard to make people understand and, hopefully, push for positive improvements in the system.

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

BUDGET ADDRESS - RURAL SUPPORT

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : I was listening closely to the Budget Address of the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board and have even taken a second look. The Budget Address is 15 pages long, and the word "rural" is only used one time - when talking about access to the Internet. Only once did the minister address rural Nova Scotia.

What is not in the minister's address are the words: "rural health care," "rural education," "rural roads," "rural jobs," "rural businesses," "rural communities," and "rural people." Mr. Speaker, if this government is looking for support in rural Nova Scotia, they will have to say a lot more than just one word.

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

NORTHWOOD FDN. - GARDEN GRANT

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I'd like to take a moment today to congratulate the Northwood Foundation on receiving a $3,500 Fiskars' Project Orange Thumb grant for its West Bedford Community Garden. More than 400 gardens applied for the grants across North America, and only 30 were selected.

The Garden Park is located on the front lawn of Northwood's Ivany Place in Bedford. It's the first community garden in the area. Northwood's goal is to provide garden space that's accessible to all by promoting a culture of acceptance and inclusion. The garden is wheelchair accessible, allowing all Northwood residents to participate. The garden also allows Northwood residents to work together to grow vegetables, fruit, and flowers, and therefore creates a stronger sense of community between residents.

Congratulations to the Northwood Foundation on making its public garden dream a reality - a place where people of all ages and walks of life are able to be healthy, feel welcome, and develop neighbourhood connections.

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

SHERIFF, GORDON: MEN OF THE DEEPS - COMMITMENT

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Gordon Sheriff of Hillside, Mira. Gordon is a 48-year member of the Men of the Deeps. Gord is active with the Men of the Deeps and currently serves as president of this marvellous group in this, their 50^th Anniversary year.

Gordon is a wonderful singer but is most powerful when he is reciting poetry that speaks of the spirit, trials, and tribulations of those who work underground. Gord's poetry was one of the most memorable moments at Sunday's Givin' Back to the Mac concert. When he recited his very powerful poem about Westray, you could hear a pin drop.

I ask all members of this House to join me in thanking Gord and his wife, Carol, for their commitment to the very unique group, the Men of the Deeps.

MR. SPEAKER « » : I would just like to remind the member for Dartmouth South that a statement should not be used to debate any legislation or resolution currently before the House.

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The honourable member for Clayton Park West.

MACMILLAN, CAROL: HFX. C OF C CHAIR - CONGRATS.

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize Carol MacMillan who was very recently appointed chair of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. As you know, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce provides great opportunities for business owners and operators to share best practices and set common goals.

Carol MacMillan is a native of New Brunswick and lives in Clayton Park West. She began her career in Halifax in 1998 at Clayton Developments Limited. In 2009, Carol was named chief finance officer at The Shaw Group and was the first female to become a shareholder in that company. Carol has come to the chair of the chamber of commerce after several years of service and membership with this organization, including recently having been vice-chair. She is not only committed to her work with the chamber of commerce but has also given continued years of community volunteer service to the YMCA, Phoenix House, and many other community groups.

I wish her all of the best today, and I hope the members will share in wishing her a tremendously successful year to come.

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

LUDDINGTON, CALLEE: STUDIES - WELL WISHES

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge one of our former House Pages, Callee Luddington, who graduated last Spring from Saint Mary's University with her undergrad in Political Science summa cum laude. Her thesis, Climate Discourses and Communities in Canada and Norway: The Anti-Silent Spring, funded by the Norwegian Bicentennial Scholarship, has since been published by the Norwegian Government and is available on Amazon.

Callee received the very prestigious Izaak Walton Killam Pre-Doctoral Scholarship towards her master's studies and will pursue her Master of Arts-Political Science at Dalhousie University this Fall. Her thesis will be evaluating the duty to consult in Canada, looking through the lens of environmental policy/environmental consultation with First Nations.

Callee is listening and recording everything we are saying as she is presently working for Hansard. I ask that we all send our congratulations to a very exciting and bright future to one of our own, Callee Luddington.

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

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption . . .

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. This is the time allotted for members' statements. I think you have a resolution to be tabled, correct?

MR. DELOREY « » : Oh, wrong one. (Laughter)

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

ANTIGONISH INTL. POTLUCK GROUP: ORGANIZERS - THANK

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Still a rookie, sorry about that.

Mr. Speaker, on February 28, 2016, my family and I attended an international potluck hosted by Cultural Connections Antigonish, or as they are formally known: the Antigonish International Potluck Group. You see, the idea is simple. Everyone is asked to bring a dish to share, children are welcome, and the results are quite amazing. In one room, you hear laughing, introductions being made, friendly greetings, and conversations in many different languages all with different accents. It is a noisy and vibrant experience.

These potlucks have been taking place in Antigonish on a regular basis for several years, and I'm sure the results are the same at each event. When you get people together to share a meal, they get to know one another through conversation, and what better way to celebrate the many cultures in a community than to get together for a community meal? It was truly a great Antigonish community experience and I would like to thank everyone who helped organize the event.

I would also like to thank everyone who attended, whether they were local by birth or an ABC - an Antigonisher by choice. We all must do our part to welcome newcomers to the community, wherever they come from, whether it is Syria, Vancouver, or Halifax. The entire evening was a welcoming experience and I was proud to see the diversity.

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

JACQUARD, LINDSAY: ANNA. VALLEY APPLE BLOSSOM FEST.

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- PRINCESS PORT WILLIAMS

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tell members that Lindsay Jacquard, the 22-year-old daughter of Stillman and Sylvia Jacquard of Port Williams, has been chosen as Princess Port Williams.

Lindsay will proudly represent her community and is a participant in the highly-respected Queen Annapolisa pageant, to take place during the 84^th Apple Blossom Festival this year. She graduated from Horton in 2012, where she was the recipient of the Governor General's Academic Medal. She is a graduate of NSCAD University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, and is now an instructor at the Ross Creek Centre for the Arts.

Please join me in congratulating Lindsay on this milestone accomplishment, and wish her the best in her future endeavours and with her pageant activities.

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

ROACH, REV. DUNCAN - ANNIV. (50^th)

MR. DAVID WILTON « » : Mr. Speaker, at this time I would like to recognize a true gentleman. Rev. Duncan Roach was ordained as a minister in 1966 when he graduated from Pine Hill Divinity Hall in Halifax. After going into smaller communities in Cape Breton, he was called to Calvin United Church in New Waterford and has been there ever since.

As a well-known community member, he has sat on many boards over the years, including New Waterford Consolidated Hospital, New Waterford Community Centre, and Maple Hill Manor. As well, he served as chaplain for Royal Canadian Legion Branch 15 and the Army, Navy and Air Force Branch 217; and is a Paul Harris Fellow at New Waterford Rotary.

For the last 50 years, Rev. Roach has been a giving member of our community and a true friend to all. Congratulations, and we wish him the best of health.

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

MUISE, ARTHUR: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, People who love Cape Breton violin music will miss the exquisite playing of Arthur Muise. Music was important in his family and encouraged at an early age. His father built him his own small fiddle after Arthur found the full-size version uncomfortable for his little 8-year-old hands.

Being self-taught, Arthur was able to develop his own style. For Arthur, playing appeared effortless. Few could be said to have been more naturally gifted musicians.

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Dave MacIsaac told me a story about a three-hour impromptu session in a cabin behind Mr. Chicken in Cheticamp. He said he never heard a more incredible night of music. Arthur and my father took turns playing, and at the end of it all my father said to Dave, "That fella's pretty nifty with the bow hand."

Angus Chisholm heard a tape of Arthur, who was just 15 years old at the time. He exclaimed, "He's playing all of my tunes and he's got a gosh-darn good set of fingers on him."

April 5, 2016, was a sad day as people began to learn that Arthur had passed away. The recordings and videos of his playing will be cherished for generations to come. The love he had for music will live on in the lives of others, who have come to know what a great musician he was. We remember him today here in the Legislature.

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

MARRIOTT, MIKE/ST. MARGARETS BAY SAFETY MINDED ATV ASSOC.: CONTRIBUTION - RECOGNIZE

MR. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mike Marriott and the St. Margarets Bay Safety Minded ATV Association. Mike is the chairperson for the SMATVA, a non-profit association and the third-largest ATV club in Nova Scotia, with approximately 230 members.

Under Mike's leadership, the SMATVA has worked collaboratively with a number of local non-profits and all levels of government to conduct extensive trail building to connect Upper Tantallon to Prospect. They have now reached Nine Mile River, with only a short stretch to go to get to Prospect. This initiative has leveraged countless volunteer hours as culverts and bridges have been replaced and roadbeds have been secured and widened, providing safe access to some of our most valuable natural resources.

I would like the members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in recognizing the enormous value of the contribution made by St. Margarets Bay Safety Minded ATV Association, and by its chair, Mike Marriott, to both local and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.

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

J.L. ILSLEY HS: "ZOMBIE PROM: A MUSICAL" - PRODUCTION

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MR. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, on April 21^st to April 23^rd the students and staff at J.L. Ilsley High School took to the stage to perform Zombie Prom: A Radioactive Musical. The production was directed by Alastair Duncan and the musical direction was provided by Vanessa Mignault.

The play was originally produced as an off-Broadway show and later a movie, and it dealt with relevant and important issues, such as overcoming prejudice. The students and staff worked hard to produce an amazing and entertaining show for the audiences.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate the cast and crew of Zombie Prom for their wonderful performances. They should all be very proud of their hard work to make this year's production a success.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Thank you very much. The time allotted for members' statements is almost expired, so we'll just get ready for the beginning of Oral Questions Put by Members to Ministers on this fine Tuesday afternoon.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM.: MENTAL HEALTH CARE - CRISIS ADMIT

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Premier. Today in this building Carolyn Fox bravely told the story of her daughter Cayley. Just four months ago Cayley died from a mental illness. She sought treatment. Cayley did everything that we would ever ask of her. Three times she went to the emergency room for help, each time to be turned away.

Cayley was a great athlete. She was great in school. She had strong family support but the system let her down. The government says there is no crisis in mental health care, Mr. Speaker, but there is a crisis and Cayley's family knows it.

I'd like to ask the Premier, will he now agree that there is a crisis in the delivery of mental health services in our province?

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Cayley's family for being here today to express their heartache, quite frankly, and the province's heartache whenever we lose a young person.

The Minister of Health and Wellness has been working across the province with health care clinicians to provide what they are seeing as the best practices that they've advised him and the department to provide across the community-based services. The Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development has continued to invest in SchoolsPlus programs with continuing to hire more clinicians in our school system. I believe we are now at 29 to early detection onset of mental health issues.

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We know there is more work to do. We know that by continuing to work with families like Cayley's who have expressed their experience, we know we can continue to fill and provide those supports for families across this province, that we will continue to need the help of Nova Scotians to help us guide us in the work we are doing along with our clinicians to make sure that we're providing those services to communities across the province.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, Cayley was an ambitious young girl and she had her whole life ahead of her. She wanted to do the best she could, as a Nova Scotian, and to help others. She was known for reaching out to other students who she believed were similarly suffering from mental illness, from depression.

Mr. Speaker, we have a bill before the House now called Cayley's Law, to start to take concrete steps to help fill the gaps in our mental health system. I know it was introduced today but I'd like to ask the Premier, will he look at passing Cayley's law in this session of the Legislature?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. We'll look at the bill that was introduced today, Mr. Speaker, and we'll review it in the context of the legislative agenda and also with Cayley and her family in mind. We'll be happy to review that, like we do with all bills that are put before this House.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, Cayley's mom actually came to the House with a solution, a step forward to help other young women like Cayley and others who are mentally ill and need help. She says we need to take a comprehensive look at the health care delivery system. We need Education and Early Childhood Development, Health and Wellness, Finance and Treasury Board, and Justice working together to take a look at this serious problem. We need solutions.

Mr. Speaker, that is the greatest call that could possibly be made for a public inquiry into the state of mental health care delivery in the Province of Nova Scotia. I would like to ask the Premier once again, will he commit today to calling a full public inquiry into the state of our mental health care system?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I tell him that the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Wellness have been working across department lines to ensure that we're providing services to Nova Scotians, whether it is in a school-based program, whether it is the Department of Health and Wellness that is working with clinicians to provide community-based solutions for communities across this province.

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I can tell the honourable member, we know there is more work to do. We'll continue to do that work; we'll continue to reach out to our partners. And yes, we'll continue to tear down the walls inside government so that all departments and all members of our province know that we have a responsibility to work together to ensure that we're providing the services that Nova Scotians want, in a unified way, and not in the silo way that has been provided across this province in the past.

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

PREM.: BLOOMFIELD PROJ. - COMMITMENT

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, a year and a half ago this government told us that the Bloomfield project was moving towards a start date. In October 2014, the Minister of Community Services posted on her website that construction of Phase One would begin in 2015. I will table that.

Well, Mr. Speaker, 2015 has come and gone, and there is no start date in sight. So I ask the Premier, why did this government fail to honour the commitment made by the Minister of Community Services to begin construction on the Bloomfield project in 2015?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I want to thank the honourable minister for the work that she's been doing across the province to provide affordable housing. We're going to continue to work, through the minister, with communities across this province to find community-based solutions to affordable housing in Nova Scotia.

I want to thank the residents of Bloomfield who brought together a proposal to the former government. I do want to remind the honourable member that it was her government that paid twice as much as any private sector thought that property was worth. We've also identified now there were potentially other options. We're reviewing those options. The minister will make some announcement in the coming week.

MS. MANCINI « » : If the Premier did not want to get involved in the Bloomfield project, he was free to say so after he took office; however he did not. He could have interjected at any point over the last few years while the Minister of Community Services has been promoting the project, but he did not. As recently as January 29^th of this year, the minister told the media that the Bloomfield project would indeed go ahead.

I ask the Premier why, after two and a half years, is he now saying his government could pull out of the Bloomfield project?

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THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question, I want to assure her that the Bloomfield project will go ahead. The only question is who's going to be the owner, who's going to occupy it, and who's going to build it.

MS. MANCINI « » : For those hoping to see more affordable housing availability, the Premier's announcement on Friday was a big disappointment. The Premier has had this file for two and a half years, and yet he still remains unclear about what he wants to do, leaving the project clouded in uncertainty. This is not the type of leadership that the province needs to address affordable housing.

I ask the Premier, when will he make a final decision on the fate of the Bloomfield project?

THE PREMIER « » : Within the week.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: MENTAL HEALTH SERV. - WAIT TIMES

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : My question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. When young Nova Scotians don't get the counselling or mental health services that they need, it can lead to tragic results. Depression, severe anxiety, and schizophrenia can all be treated if they are addressed early on. But too many young Nova Scotians wait too long to get the mental health care services that they need. At the IWK, the wait-list now for adolescent mental health is 176 days - that's almost six months.

I would like to ask the minister, why do young Nova Scotians in need have to wait six months to get the mental health care services they need at the IWK hospital?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I know that at the IWK, we have of course a first-class, world-class place in which our adolescents receive treatment on an ongoing basis. In fact, some of those who are on the list have already been assessed, and some are receiving some care in their communities. Others on the list are part of ongoing treatment. They've had multiple locations to be in contact with the IWK. We know that right across the province we are working to make sure that we have more clinicians, expand SchoolsPlus, and add clinical capacity from one end of Nova Scotia to the other so that our youth get early intervention.

MR. BAILLIE « » : It's a great facility, if you get in - that's just the point. The minister talks about adolescents, young Nova Scotians, who are on the list. But we've all learned, and I'm sure we all agree, that leaving young Nova Scotians who are mentally ill on a list waiting for care is a very risky thing to do.

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I'd like to ask the minister to tell us he's not satisfied to leave young Nova Scotians on a list waiting to get into a terrific facility and tell us today - what is the plan to get them off the list and make sure that every single one of them gets the mental health care that they need?

MR. GLAVINE « » : It was just a few short years ago that we all know we had over 900 on the list waiting for assessment at the IWK under the Together We Can strategy. Great strides have been made to reduce the list. Of course the goal is to get all Nova Scotians to be assessed within 30 days for what program they can receive counselling from back in their community.

We know that the first place for providing care is in the school setting. We're expanding and we have a lead practice in the country in SchoolsPlus as Dr. Janet Davidson identified when she came in to look at adolescent mental health.

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

PREM. - LAW REFORM COMMN.: FUNDING - DISCONTINUANCE

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : Earlier today our caucus released a letter sent to the Premier this past January. The letter was signed by 17 of this province's most prominent law firms, which is unprecedented. These well-respected leaders in our community are unanimous in their thinking that this government's decision to discontinue funding to the Law Reform Commission is a mistake. I will table those letters.

Given that the Premier hasn't replied to the hundreds of lawyers represented by these 17 firms, I would like to give him the opportunity to do so now. Can the Premier respond to the concerns raised by the legal community about the elimination of funding for the Law Reform Commission?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. The responses of our government would have been responded to through the Department of Justice. Often things that are sent to the Premier's Office would be sent off to the ministers to respond to.

Specifically to this question, Mr. Speaker, we gave the legal community a year's notice that we would be discontinuing our funding for this commission. We are still giving an in-kind space they are able to use. We were hoping that over the year they would be able to find some funding to continue to do their work.

It's my hope that perhaps those 17 law firms, who have taken the time to write to tell how important it is, will contribute financially to make sure they have the resources they need and support government as we provide them with the space as an in-kind motion.

[Page 9471]

MS. MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, it would be inappropriate for the Law Reform Commission to seek private funding. I have tried to make that point on several occasions. The Premier has also received letters from the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society, the Canadian Bar Association, the Schulich School of Law, Dalhousie Legal Aid, the Alberta Law Reform Institute and the Federation of Law Reform Agencies of Canada.

The decision to eliminate funding to this democratic institution is taken straight from the playbook of the Harper Conservatives, a decision widely criticized by legal experts. The commission's work is critical and the real costs of terminating funding greatly outweigh any perceived financial benefits.

Does the Premier agree it is in the best interests of Nova Scotia to follow in the footsteps of the discredited Harper Government?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for her question and her ability to stretch the parameters around the question. The reality of it is that we gave the Law Reform Commission a year's notice. We are providing them in-kind space where they continue to operate.

I want to correct the honourable member, it would not be inappropriate for law firms to contribute to this commission, if they believe in the work that is happening there so much. Some of the lawyers are doing pro bono work. We continue to work and ask them to work in collaboration with our government. We're more than happy to be a partner with them and we're doing so and we'll continue to provide and offer that space, Mr. Speaker, free of charge.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: MENTAL HEALTH SERV. - AVAILABILITY

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. All across the province people young and old, but all too often more so young than old, are turning up in emergency rooms and they're looking for help. They are many times quickly in and out of there, turned away, saying you're okay or come back at another time when we can help you. Come back on Monday, I hear people in Pictou County say they are told at the Aberdeen.

Mr. Speaker, it's not good enough so I'd like to ask the minister today, does he accept that this is happening? Does he accept that it's a serious, dangerous issue?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I thank the member for an important question. We know that now across the province Dr. Linda Courey and her team are assembling the necessary resources to provide mental health services right across our province. I believe that as we improve and add resources, as we train doctors in particular now to go and receive extra professional development around mental health support to patients, I think those are great strides forward. As the member knows and as we know right across Canada, Dr. Jane Philpott is very concerned about mental health. There will be initiatives coming federally. We all know there is more we can do.

[Page 9472]

MR. HOUSTON « » : There is more we can do, and there's more we need to do quickly. I'd like to redirect to the Minister responsible for Youth. The Youth Secretariat hasn't issued a report in years. Meanwhile, we have young people all across the province having the courage to reach out and ask for help, and they're being let down.

I'd like to ask the Minister responsible for Youth, will the minister make it a priority to work with the Minister of Health and Wellness and put the arm on him to make these changes happen quickly? Enough of the talking. We need a bit of action here. We need to help those people who are reaching out for help, and we need to do it soon.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. In fact, I do meet with young people at least four times a year. I would urge anyone who needs help or who is experiencing a crisis to call our mental health crisis line at 1-888-429-8167. I would urge any of the members, if you know of anyone who may harm themselves or someone else, to either call 911 or go to the local emergency department.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: MENTAL HEALTH SERV. - EXPAND

HON. PAT DUNN « » : My question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. According to some police officers, one of the main issues that they deal with today is mental health. If a patient has to be transported, two officers are involved - we know that this distance can vary depending on where a bed may be available in the province - one officer in the ambulance, and one following in a police vehicle. Off-duty officers have to be called in to assist, a considerable amount of taxpayers' dollars that could be used for resources and professional development.

My question to the minister is, why isn't the Department of Health and Wellness providing more services for mental health patients, thereby allowing police officers to obtain assistance quickly from trained professionals?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : First of all, I want to commend the RCMP and police forces in our communities across the province, many now who, in fact, have received mental health training so that the proper interventions can be made. It's a wonderful step forward. We know that at times a person will need to be moved to one of our centres where there are short-term psychiatric units, which in fact are resourced by professionals, and given the care that they will need for whatever trauma they may be in.

[Page 9473]

MR. DUNN « » : Police officers often tell me that residents are not obtaining mental health assistance they need. Unfortunately, it also seems that often a charge has to be laid in order to have the person appear before a judge, thereby finally receiving some help.

Police will often tell you they do not like using the justice system to deal with these difficulties; they prefer professional assistance at the hospital. Once a person is charged, they often acquire a criminal record and find themselves unemployable because of their record. Therefore, police officers often hesitate to lay charges because they know it will only compound the situation.

My question to the minister, does the minister believe having someone appearing before a judge is the best method for patients in crisis?

MR. GLAVINE « » : What I can tell the member opposite, and all Nova Scotians, is that today in our province there will be several thousand Nova Scotians supported by the mental health system, by clinicians from one end of the province to the other. We're very fortunate to have some outstanding professionals who are carrying out that necessary work day in and day out.

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

COMMUN. SERV.: BLOOMFIELD PROJ. - AFFORDABLE HOUSING

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : It appears as though the minister and the Premier have conflicting views on Bloomfield. In October 2014 the minister wrote on her personal website that Phase I of construction on Bloomfield will begin in 2015 and that "This flagship project is what housing affordability will look like for decades going forth in Nova Scotia." I will table that.

Mr. Speaker, as we move forward, can the Minister of Community Services tell us what provincial flagship project will demonstrate this government's commitment to housing affordability?

HON. JOANNE BERNARD « » : Thank you for the question. Bloomfield will continue to move forward. It will be a flagship in this province for affordability, mixed-use, mixed income, in the future for people to take advantage of going forward.

I'm very excited about the new opportunities available in co-operation with the federal government and the cost-sharing that's coming down through infrastructure money. We'll be making some very important announcements in the very near future and we'll be looking at housing more people in Nova Scotia and taking advantage of the programs available both provincially and federally.

[Page 9474]

MS. MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, the Premier's remarks that the province is considering pulling out of Bloomfield came as a surprise to those who had been listening closely to this minister for years.

Will the minister or would the minister support a decision that would see the province walk away from the Bloomfield project?

MS. BERNARD « » : One thing that I can tell the honourable member is that this government is absolutely committed to housing affordability in Nova Scotia; we have exhibited that in many different ways.

We have invested $42 million from the deferred federal contribution, which is a fund that was available to both the Parties across the aisle, which never was spent in years and years gone by, waiting for the rainy day. The rainy day came on October 8, 2013, when we invested that money into affordability.

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

ENVIRON.: GOFFS QUARRY SITE - WETLAND ALTERATION

MR. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : Residents near the proposed Goffs quarry site have filed complaints with the Department of Environment and the minister directly alleging unauthorized wetland alteration going back to April 7^th. The minister responded to the residents and I'll table her response, saying that it was tree harvesting and it was activity occurring in the wetland and no approval was required.

However, historical photos - and I'll table those - going back to 2007 show that even when the site was a forestry site that wetland was protected that is now cleared. There is a difference in the Department of Natural Resources between land clearing and harvesting.

Mr. Speaker, the minister has previously been provided these photos showing the disturbance. Did she order a full investigation of the alleged wetland disturbance?

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : I thank the honourable member for the question. As I said in the House last week, all quarries have a form of environmental oversight. When all that material in the application is brought to my department, department officials either deny or approve the request.

It is during an appeal process that I would see all that material so I'll be seeing it if and when there is an appeal on the situation.

[Page 9475]

MR. YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, this has nothing to do with the quarry. This has to do with a potentially illegal wetland alteration that has nothing to do with the quarry application, and it is the Department of Environment's responsibility to investigate.

Aerial photos taken last week - and I'll table those - show that there are deep ruts, there has been removal of marsh grasses and, in fact, the photos that I tabled earlier show that the area that has been protected since at least 2007, according to the photographic evidence, has now been completely cleared. There are deep holes and deep ruts which would appear to be in violation of the Act.

Mr. Speaker, this is not about the quarry; this is about wetland disturbance. They've been asking for an investigation and reported to the minister since April 7^th. Will the minister order a site investigation?

MS. MILLER « » : Thank you to the member for the question. Certainly that is something I'll be looking into moving forward. All the information I've got on the wetlands and with the quarry or anything that has come into that department, I will be seeing that during the appeal process.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS - FOWLER CASE: RESOURCES - UPDATE

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. Last year on June 3^rd, Jackson Lawrence Fowler of Kingston unfortunately took his own life after many years of battling depression, at just 20 years of age. I will table his obituary.

Jackson's mother, Laura Fowler, is determined his death will help create change in our mental health system and has given me permission to bring his story to the attention of the Legislature. In the obituary it says, "he tried all available avenues for support and various outreach programs; but with the lack of proper resources 'the system' was fleeting at best and sadly he fell through the cracks."

I know the Minister of Health and Wellness must have been aware of Jackson's passing last year. Can he tell me what has been done in the Valley to address the lack of resources reported in Jackson's obituary of June last year?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I am very familiar with this particular case as they lived in the community where I live, and I have met with his mother to start to develop in our community and other communities, especially through the community health boards, a number of mental health support groups. We know that this is an area that can be extremely helpful, and I know we have made some progress in that regard.

[Page 9476]

MR. LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for that answer. In an article in the June 17, 2015 issue of the Kings County Register entitled "Depression is not something to shove under the carpet", which I will table, it says, "Laura says the system failed her son. She talks about how she tried unsuccessfully to find him help, first in school and also through mental health and addiction services."

My question for the minister is, can the minister explain why it is so hard to find mental health service help in rural Nova Scotia, how he plans to fix this, and what avenues are there for parents in the same situation such as Laura?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I know in our community this case and a few other tragic mental health circumstances have propelled our community health board to do a great deal more with the youth in our area. They also have put together a mental health binder of great information and supports to people in the workplace, in community organizations. Last evening, at a community meeting, I was pleased to hear that 60-something of these resources had been moved around the community to support families who may have a loved one with a mental health condition or an acute trauma.

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

EECD - SCHOOLSPLUS: STUDENT DISRUPTION - OPTIONS

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, a question for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. We know that around 200 schools in the province have SchoolsPlus. I know the minister was down to Inverness to bring the program there, which is a great development. What does a teacher do when there is a student disrupting the classroom, impacting the learning of others? Something is interfering with this child's learning and it may very well be a serious mental health issue. If it is, what steps can a teacher take?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. I think we would recognize that the challenges that students bring to the classroom are becoming more complex, anxiety levels are very high, and it is our role to make sure that our teachers have the ability to identify the professional development to help them respond to and the resources available to them because in some cases that student does need to be removed from the classroom for their own safety and for the safety of the others in the classroom.

We look at the SchoolsPlus as one of the ways where we can provide that support, look at restorative justice kinds of programs in our classrooms. I think it is absolutely critical that the teacher is able to identify and is able to refer that student to some professional who can provide them the help they need.

MR. MACMASTER « » : I would like to thank the minister. We know that health literacy, according to the World Health Organization, is the number one determinant of health. Being aware of a child's health in this case is critical.

[Page 9477]

Each year, there is a provincial Professional Development Day. I would like to ask the minister if this is an opportunity for the department to have workshops on training for mental health issues so the teachers may be empowered to deal with these situations as they arise in the classroom.

MS. CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, the Professional Development Days that are offered vary. There are the NSTU's sponsored provincial conference day in October, and teachers obviously have an opportunity to have input into what those programs would be. Teachers can also stay back in their own school and put together a program that is specific to their needs. We work very closely with Dr. Stan Kutcher using the Go-To training program for teachers to help them identify and provide professional development for themselves. There are a variety of opportunities, but the provincial conference day, sponsored by the NSTU, is certainly one way for that to happen.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS - C.B. REG. HOSP.:

C.B. REG. POLICE OFFICER - MENTAL HEALTH DEPT.

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : My question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. The Cape Breton Regional Police Services have an officer who works in the mental health department of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. He is well trained and is a valuable member of the health care team. The cutting of some of the funding to the Boots on the Street program means that position may be axed as well.

Will the minister fight to keep the funding for this valuable position within the mental health care system?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : What I can say to the member opposite is that Boots on the Street is not being cut; in fact, it's currently under a review.

MR. ORRELL « » : We heard at Budget Estimates that the Boots on the Street budget was going to be cut because the policing system was doing so well that it wasn't necessary to keep all that funding available anymore. We know that that funding is why the crime rates are down in our province.

Can the minister assure the patients and staff that this police position will remain if that is one of the areas that is cut by cutting the Boots on the Street program?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Perhaps the Minister of Justice can bring more up-to-date information to respond.

[Page 9478]

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I think it's interesting in this case to note that the police who are funded through our municipal partners and with this additional officers program, are in many different capacities. That's really what the question points out, somebody who's in the hospital. We know that a number of them as well are in schools. I've heard from the members of my caucus and others who are very concerned and also interested that those positions remain. As we heard in estimates, the budget is down slightly, but it doesn't mean that the number of officers will be reduced. That's the important thing, I think, the number of officers that we have on the ground.

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

EECD: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUC. - INVESTMENT

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : My question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. The Association of Early Childhood Educators in Ontario recently reported on the effectiveness of work done to address low wages for early educators in that province. They concluded that staff wages could not be tied to parents' ability to pay or precarious funding streams like grants or subsidies. Here in Nova Scotia, the province's largest child care union and the non-profit directors association have both raised concerns about whether this government's additional investment will actually get us where we need to go, since they're tied to grants and subsidies.

Could the minister please explain how the investment of an additional $63 per child will be adequate to increase both child care affordability and wages?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : I'm really pleased to be able to speak about our investment in early childhood education, in particular recognizing that the wages for our early childhood educators are the lowest in the country, recognizing that many parents are not able to close the gap between the subsidy and the fees that are charged. Because of those two outstanding and deplorable conditions, our government invested $6.6 million to close both of those gaps.

MS. ZANN « » : Thank you for that answer, but it's interesting because I just met with the Nova Scotia Teachers Union on Friday, and they're still scratching their heads over the minister's plans with the $6.6 million. In fact, the minister has said in this House that she intends to bring wages up to the national average. According to data from the department, there were more than 2,000 early childhood educators in Nova Scotia in 2013. Even if the entire $6.6-million investment went to increasing wages, which is not what has been said, each worker will only see an increase of 17 cents per hour.

Would the minister care to explain how she plans to follow through on her promise to child care workers in Nova Scotia?

[Page 9479]

MS. CASEY « » : I would say that this government is certainly committed to supporting the quality work that our early childhood educators do in this province, to recognize their importance, the important role that they play so that families and young children can get the supports they need prior to coming to school.

I would like to make one correction, though, it would not be the Nova Scotia Teachers Union that the member should be meeting with; it would be the early childhood educators.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: C.B. DOCTOR RECRUITMENT - DETAILS

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. This government has broken their promise to Nova Scotians time and time again. There is a family doctor shortage, and the minister claims that 10 new doctors are coming to Cape Breton.

My question for him would be very simple, will the minister today confirm that these doctors plan to come to Cape Breton and set up a full practice and actually take on patients? And will he also confirm today that they are not just a short-term placement?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to say that of the 10 doctors who will be going to Cape Breton, five have signed on for the tuition agreement. That means a five-year commitment for sure, and most likely a future in Cape Breton.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Well, thank you very much for that, Mr. Minister, but you forgot the first part of the question, if they're going to take on a full practice.

A family doctor is very important. This isn't just about common health worries and ailments; it's about mental health too. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, step one is to find a doctor. "Step One: Find a Doctor! The first point of entry into the mental health system in Nova Scotia is through an individual's family physician. Your doctor then will decide whether to treat you independently, or provide you with a referral to visit a psychiatrist, counsellor and/or a mental health clinic." It also goes on to say, "It is important that you have a doctor that creates a safe and comfortable environment to discuss your mental health concerns with." I'll table that, Mr. Speaker.

My question to the minister is, will the minister finally admit that the family doctor crisis is spilling over into other aspects of health care, and leaving people vulnerable and at risk?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, what I am pleased to say to the member opposite and to all Nova Scotians is that just recently I signed the certification of 50 of our doctors who took part in the mental health professional development. Many others will now engage in this training, and with the development of more collaborative practices - one, in fact, that I've heard great results about in Berwick. This is what we need - comprehensive, collaborative care where they have a mental health provider as part of the primary health team.

[Page 9480]

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: HEALTH BDS.

- PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT GROUP

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. I have had the unenviable task of being with families who have had a loved one take their own life, and it's always a task that I found difficult walking into.

A parent will always ask "why?" A parent will say, "what did I miss?" A parent never, ever gets over the pain of this kind of loss. There is a lot of fallout to this kind of situation.

Will the minister encourage each health board to offer a support group for parents and for families who are a part of this situation?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for his work as a minister to assist families with probably the most difficult grieving they will ever do.

I know that the Nova Scotia Health Authority is looking at a comprehensive picture for mental health delivery services. What the member references is one that also needs to be a part, whether it is the psychological support, a minister's support in some communities and in some hospital settings. But it's certainly a service that I will review with the Health Authority to make sure that such service is available.

MR. HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, a lot of families can't work through this kind of grief in a healthy way, and money, it may not even be required to have that kind of support.

So my question is, will the minister meet with the mental health departments to determine what would be most helpful?

MR. GLAVINE « » : I know today we're asking some of the most important questions that have been here during this session, around mental health. We know there's always more in our communities. I'm an absolute believer that it's not necessarily hundreds of more professionals but it is many people developing the abilities and the skills to provide within their families, their workplace, their organizations. Certainly we'll have an opportunity to sit down with the member opposite and discuss the issue he has brought forward today. It is the way that we can expand that service, that comfort to families. We'll certainly move in that direction.

[Page 9481]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

HEALTH & WELLNESS: HOSP. INFRASTRUCTURE - MIN. SATISFACTION

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, hospitals across the province have needs that continue to go unaddressed by this government. Nova Scotians were shocked to learn that last year the government underspent the hospital infrastructure budget by 63 per cent. When the minister was asked on Friday if he was satisfied with how hospital infrastructure projects have gone thus far, he said "absolutely."

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to ask the minister, after underspending the hospital infrastructure budget by 63 per cent last year, can he explain how he is absolutely satisfied with the progress of hospital infrastructure projects here in Nova Scotia?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : In fact I have reviewed the past number of years, even before we came into government, and we do have a history in our province of delays with projects. Some of the projects we picked up needed design work; we have a couple of projects with legal ramifications that must be sorted out before they move forward; and we've certainly had some redesign of projects as well.

While it may seem like - you know it is a considerable amount of millions of dollars, this money is booked, these projects will move forward.

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, the minister on several occasions continued to point to the longer term of these infrastructure projects, but there are patients in our hospitals who are concerned with their health and safety today. There are workers in our hospitals concerned for their health and safety today. It must be difficult for these patients and health care providers to accept the fact that money budgeted to improve hospital conditions were dramatically underspent over the last couple of years.

So I ask the minister, how does underspending the infrastructure budget by 63 per cent address the immediate needs of hospitals across the province?

MR. GLAVINE « » : I know that in our 36 hospitals there are both small and large projects on the books. What I do know, if there is a question of safety, that work is on time and in place so that both staff and patients are looked after.

I refer, for example, to the question of getting new steps at Northside General. I believe we got that project completed. There are many other examples that I can refer to, both small and large projects, that enhance our hospital work.

[Page 9482]

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: MARIJUANA USAGE/PSYCHOSIS - DEPT. ADDRESS

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, Dr. Phil Tibbo is a psychiatrist, a professor, he's the Dr. Paul Janssen Chair in Psychotic Disorders at the Department of Psychiatry at Dalhousie University, and a Director of the Nova Scotia Early Psychosis Program.

Dr. Phil Tibbo has authored a number of papers on the link between marijuana usage and psychosis in young adults - and I will table several of those papers now. In his papers he states that for a small, but significant, number of young adults marijuana use can contribute to the onset of schizophrenia and psychosis. The World Health Organization also recognizes the impact of cannabis use on young adults and its link to mental illness - and I table the paper on that too.

My question for the Minister of Health and Wellness is, can the minister tell me what is being done by his department to address the root causes of mental illnesses such as this in young adults in the province?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, what I can say to the member opposite is that I'm aware of that research. In fact, very recently I wrote an article for the local paper dealing with the use of marijuana, especially now since cannabis is a very different product than was there in the 1960s and 1970s. We know that the research, in fact, is making a very strong connection with regular use of cannabis and psychosis. I know that our schools and also our liaison officers are doing what they can to both educate and to restrict the use. We know that we're looking to the federal government for what will become the law around marijuana in the very near future.

MR. LOHR « » : I'd like to thank the minister for that answer, Mr. Speaker. My second question for the minister is, given the federal government has committed to legalization of marijuana, can the minister ensure Nova Scotians that the ground-breaking and significant research into serious health effects on the still-developing adolescent brain, being done here in Nova Scotia, will be brought to the attention of his federal counterparts?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I actually gave a little assignment to someone who likes to do research. They looked at countries where cannabis and other drugs have been legalized, and it has been a step forward to deal with underage youth who are using cannabis, or other drugs as well. There has been a real connection with being able to prosecute, and to be able to restrict and reduce the amount in youth populations.

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

[Page 9483]

HEALTH & WELLNESS: MENTAL HEALTH SERV. - RESPONSIBILITY

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Throughout Question Period we've been asking questions specific to mental health services, and if you've noticed there have been a lot of different answers because there are so many different avenues that people can access a system. There's no one right way - or really, there are a whole bunch of wrong ways - but there is no one right way to actually access the system.

So my first question to the minister is - we talk about Dr. Linda Courey, we even talk about the federal minister - who is responsible for mental health services in Nova Scotia?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I'm first pleased to say that I actually encourage the member opposite to ask questions about mental health. If he remembers back to about a year ago, because it is an issue facing all Nova Scotians, all of our families in our communities, and the more that we do collectively the better results that we will have for our children and the future of our province. I can say without question that as Minister of Health and Wellness, I also have to take responsibility when there are deficits in the system.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, that is the right answer and I thank the minister for that, because the buck does stop at the Department of Health and Wellness, with the minister, to make sure that we're doing everything that we can as a government, as a Legislature, as MLAs across this province to make sure that our constituents are receiving the help that they require.

But what I do want to ask the minister is - and maybe it's something that he can table in this House later on - could the minister provide us with a listing of the services in the province in our specific areas, maybe cut it up by constituency or by community, of where we can send our constituents, when they call us for help?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'll certainly be pleased to provide members with that. We all know as MLAs that we get a phenomenal range of questions each and every week, and the more directly we can respond to our constituents about a place, whether it's mental health, or whatever other social services required, then I believe that enhances the work of all MLAs in this House, and I'm pleased to provide that.

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

The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to make an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

[Page 9484]

MR. SAMSON « » : J'ai le plaisir de présenter à l'assemblée, située dans la galerie de l'est de l'assemblée, M^me Edwina LeBlanc. M^me Edwina LeBlanc est l'épouse du défunt député de Richmond, M. Gaston LeBlanc. Gaston a été élu la première fois dans l'élection générale de 1974, et réélu dans l'élection de 1978. Malheureusement, M. Gaston LeBlanc est décédé pendant son temps comme député, le 15 février 1980.

Pendant que je n'ai pas eu l'honneur de connaître Gaston LeBlanc moi-même, je suis assuré par tout le monde qu'il était député très bien respecté. M^me LeBlanc a accepté l'Ordre de la Pléiade au nom de son défunt époux, M. LeBlanc. Elle est très bien connu dans notre communauté et est bien respectée une grande bénévole avec la Légion Canadienne 150 à Arichat, et je comprends c'est sa première visite à notre assemblée. J'espère qu'elle a bien aimé sa première visite.

Joining us in the east gallery is Madame Edwina LeBlanc, who is the widow of the former MLA for Richmond County, Mr. Gaston LeBlanc. Gaston was first elected in the 1974 general election and re-elected in 1978. Unfortunately, he died in office on February 15, 1980. Edwina accepted l'Ordre de la Pléiade on behalf of her late husband.

She is a well-respected member of our community, a great volunteer, and very active with Branch 150 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat. She has been a great supporter of mine, a great mentor, well-respected in Liberal circles for her knowledge, her advice, and her generosity. This is her first visit, I understand, to our Legislature, and I certainly hope that she has well enjoyed watching Question Period today. It's an honour to have her. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs on an introduction.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : It's my pleasure to point the House's attention to the east gallery, where Paul Marr is with us from Seaside FM. I would like to thank him for his many years of work in media and radio in particular, and allow the House to give him a warm welcome. Thank you. (Applause)

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER « » : 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.

[2:52 a.m. The House resolved into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Keith Irving in the Chair.]

[3:10 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Kevin Murphy, resumed the Chair.]

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MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. 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. 171 - Art Gallery of Nova Scotia Act.

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

Further, Mr. Speaker, the committee has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 177 - Municipal Government Act and Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

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 these bills to the favourable consideration of the House.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

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

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 161.

Bill No. 161 - Service Dog Act.

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

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, it's my pleasure to rise today to move that Bill No. 161, the Service Dog Act, be now read a third time and do pass.

Mr. Speaker, I believe this is very important legislation. As the members of the House know by this point, I think this is a bill about human rights, it's about ensuring that people have the right to go freely around the province, that they can have access to tenancy, access to businesses, ride on public transit, and have no barriers if they travel with a service dog and if they rely on a service dog in order to do the things in their daily life.

[Page 9486]

Mr. Speaker, we heard from many people that this was a problem, that they were being denied access on a daily basis and that something had to be done. So I'm very proud that we were able to bring this forward.

Before I go any further I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage because she is actually the member who brought this to my attention. I know she has worked tirelessly in her community, she has been a champion for this and wanted to ensure that we understood, as government, why this was needed and what was needed to be done. Really, with her encouragement and the support of our government we are at this point today to be at third reading.

It was really interesting, Mr. Speaker, to be at Law Amendments Committee and to hear from others about the critical support that service dogs provide to their handlers. In some cases, as many of the members heard at Law Amendments Committee, it can be life-changing. The support of a service dog can bring back a person's independence, their ability to leave the house, run errands, and engage in their communities. These individuals and their community want nothing more than to be free from discrimination and have the same public access that all other Nova Scotians enjoy. For that reason, as I say, we're very pleased today.

I want to acknowledge Lisa Partridge and Kevin Johnson who took the time to come and speak at Law Amendments Committee and share their personal stories and their expertise. It is because of struggles such as these that we bring forward this legislation today. Not only will this legislation ensure legal protections for service dog users, Mr. Speaker, but it will help raise public awareness. I think we can all agree that increasing public awareness and education is going to be a big part of the acceptance of this law and how well it will be received.

I know from speaking to our staff, although there are fines enshrined in the law, the intent is to work on education and have the business community and others understand their obligation, understand that having a service dog with you is the same as having a cane or having some other more visible sign that you have a need. It's a medical device, really, the dog is serving that purpose. The dog is watching and helping and, really, a medical assistance - that's what we need people to understand.

We are very focused as well on the educational part of this bill. As it goes forward we'll have to do a lot to explain that to people. We've spoken here about the natural inclination to reach down and touch a dog - when we meet any dog we like to pet them, but a service dog, again that would be incorrect behaviour. You don't touch a service dog, they are working. That's something that we'll want everybody in Nova Scotia to understand as we go forward. They are not just any animal, as I said, they provide critical support to their users.

[Page 9487]

I think it is important to note where the fines will be applied through this bill. One of them is for impersonating or misrepresenting an animal as a service dog. The fines will be the same for that as they are for denying access or tenancy. What we hope is to discourage it. We wanted to make sure there were fines there so that the legislation has some teeth. It is really surprising to know how widespread the use of harnesses, and I guess equipment - that would make it appear that you had a service dog in order to have access and take your pet with you. We want to make sure that people do not abuse the image of a service dog. Only registered and recognized dogs will be getting that right.

Again, we will be having regulations in the future, and I look forward to that next stage of our deliberations. When we go through with the regulations, we will outline the application process in detail, including identifying the documentation and the certification standards that will need to be in place to secure provincial identification. That is what I have been speaking about: the need to be able to identify the legitimate service dog from dogs that are not eligible for these rights and do not belong in that category. We have to be able to tell the difference. That was very important to the business community.

I should thank the Retail Council of Canada. When we first brought this in, their representative came to our bill briefing to represent the concerns of business. What business wants is clarity. They want to be able to understand and act appropriately when a dog and a handler come into their store or into their place of business. They want to know what their responsibility is, and be appropriate and follow the law.

Right now, there is so much confusion. They are letting dogs in that don't belong and don't behave properly, because they can't differentiate. We need to have identification to ensure that we can tell the difference between those dogs that are allowed to have protection under this bill. I think it is very important that we be strong on our penalties so that we can actually look after the rights of the people we are hearing from.

A fair amount of consultation was held on this bill. I hope the members of the Opposition noted that and participated in it, because we began the consultation almost a full year ago. It was July that that started last year. We heard from many Nova Scotians who asked us to move forward and to pass this legislation. We think that the penalties, again, are serious enough to dissuade people from misbehaving in the sense of not following this bill.

As I said, it has been a real pleasure to work with the member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage in particular, and a number of other members of our caucus who have shown interest and encouraged us along the way and participated in the consultation. I want to thank all the Nova Scotians who did take time to speak about their own personal experiences and let us know more about the impact that this legislation would have on their lives in a very positive way. Their passion for these legal protections highlights exactly how important this legislation is.

[Page 9488]

With that, I would look forward to hearing from other members of the House. Thank you.

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

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, we are fully, completely supportive of this legislation. How could we not be? I look to my colleague for Pictou East who introduced Bill No. 116, the Service Dogs Act, on May 8, 2015. If that has in some small way brought the issue to the Legislature, I think that is a wonderful thing.

I want to really give credit - I asked the member for Pictou East, who was it that brought this matter to you to start raising this issue in the Legislature and this bill before the House? It was Gerard and Elsie Lease, and we thank them. They are from Westville. We thank them for their leadership in bringing an issue to the floor of this Legislature that is an issue for many Nova Scotians who use service dogs.

We are fully supportive of this bill. I would like to take the opportunity to draw attention to another bill before the Legislature, that being a tax credit for service dogs as a means of further supporting people who use service dogs. With that, I will take my place.

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

MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : I wasn't going to get up and speak today because it's very emotional for me, the journey I've gone through with the people who have been involved in educating me and teaching me about the importance of this equality that was needed.

It started when I first got elected back in October 2013. I met with a constituent, Medric Cousineau, who is a service dog user; he was a new service dog user at the time. He explained to me all the problems they were having trying to buy milk at a store, if you needed to go to the hospital, all the things they were being denied access to with their service dog. The journey began with that.

We started researching - and there were a lot of us - looking into what other provinces had, seeing what the handlers and the dogs would need and ID was one of the big things. We looked into the standards of requirement that the dogs would need. Then I went to government and started making lots of noise, and they listened to me all the time, every day. It was the first minister and then the second minister - and they did listen. It took a while and it took a lot of explaining, but once you understand the true meaning of what this is going to do for Nova Scotians who use a service dog, it is all worth the two and a half years of torturing and research and torturing again.

I want to thank all those who were involved in it who have brought us to this point today. I really look forward to third reading, finishing, and the vote on this and I thank everybody for the support they've given me.

[Page 9489]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I, too, want to stand for a few moments to talk about Bill No. 161. It's ironic, I want to make sure that enough congratulations go around the House. We know, of course, the member for Pictou East, Bill No. 116, I believe, with the title of the bill just missing an "s" on the dog and dogs. I think all members of this House should recognize that the work that all members bring to this House is important. I want to commend the member for Pictou East who over a year ago introduced this legislation. I also want to commend the current government for moving forward on this piece of legislation.

In my role as a paramedic, I've often taken care of Nova Scotians who have had a service dog and I have to say it's amazing to see how well trained they are. When you bring a service dog into the back of an ambulance, for example, Mr. Speaker, and then proceed on to an emergency room and have that animal, that dog, stay by the patient's side. It's definitely important that we have legislation that's strong, that protects that service.

I think what we have today does that but I also want to make sure that the congratulations go around to all the MLAs who have worked and who have supported service dogs and that service here in Nova Scotia.

MR. SPEAKER « » : If I recognize the minister it will be to close debate.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the comments from the members of the Opposition, as well as my colleague from Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage. I think today it's a very important thing that we're doing this, that everybody is in agreement. I know that together we'll all help to educate and inform the public in Nova Scotia about what it's about. I think it's something that really is important in regard to the fact that there is a continuing and growing number of people who will be able to access and have the use of service dogs because every day we're finding more illnesses and more conditions that actually respond well to it.

If you think back 20 years, you didn't see service dogs. You saw dogs for people who were not able to see. We had the Seeing Eye Dogs, but we didn't see a lot of others, and I should mention just in closing that the Blind Person's Act remains in place. Those people who had their service dogs under the Blind Person's Act felt that they had very good conditions and they like that legal authority that they had, and protections that they had. This bill does not in any way interfere with that; it extends those rights and privileges to others with other conditions, and I think that's very important.

[Page 9490]

I know members of the House have talked about PTSD and the member as well from Sackville-Cobequid has talked about PTSD and the impact that has. I know that when we heard from members of the public, we definitely heard from people who were suffering from that, and having the introduction of a service dog into their life has made a huge difference. I think we have to recognize that, that this is part of the changing medical scene that we're seeing, and that dogs will become more familiar as service dogs being used for different uses, and that's a very positive thing.

I think we're ahead of the curve. We're one of the first provinces to bring in this kind of a bill and with that, Mr. Speaker, I move that we close debate on Bill No. 161.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 161.

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

The motion is carried.

Ordered that the bill do pass. Ordered and the title be as read as the clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

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.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The House will now recess for a couple of minutes while it resolves itself into the Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

[3:28 p.m. The House resolved into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Keith Irving in the Chair.]

[4:00 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Kevin Murphy, resumed the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:

THE CLERK « » : That the Committee of the Whole House on Bills has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 174 - Financial Measures (2016) Act.

[Page 9491]

and the chairman has been instructed to recommend this bill to the favourable consideration of the House.

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

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. 149.

Bill No. 149 - Mineral Resources Act.

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

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 149 be now read a third time and do pass.

Mr. Speaker, Bill No. 149, the Mineral Resources Act, is the legislation that establishes the rights and obligations around a responsible development of Nova Scotia's mineral resources. The Act has not been substantially reviewed since 1990 and it needed to be modernized. I am proud to say that this new modernized and simplified Mineral Resources Act will facilitate economic development, make Nova Scotia a more competitive jurisdiction, and assist in cutting red tape for the industry and for government.

The new bill was drafted following extensive research by the Department of Natural Resources staff, including jurisdictional reviews of mining legislation across the country. Mr. Speaker, I really want to thank the folks in the department for the tremendous amount of work and thought they put into this, well over a two-year period.

In addition, we received valuable input from industry, environmental non-government organizations, the Mi'kmaq, professional associations, the public and other government departments during the course of several rounds of consultations on this bill. In part, the delays in getting this new bill to the Legislature were due to the fact that I requested department staff to go back and carry out another round of consultations with key stakeholders in the winter of 2016.

Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the importance of effective legislation to reducing barriers to industry and to economic development in Nova Scotia; indeed, the review of the Mineral Resources Act was singled out in the Now or Never, One Nova Scotia report as an exemplary initiative that will assist the sector to improve productivity and competitiveness.

[Page 9492]

The new Act will cut red tape by making it easier and less expensive for industry to manage exploration licences. The new Act will require less frequent industry reporting, so that industry spends more time and money investing in exploration and less on administration. The new Act will allow for more time to complete work on exploration licences, it will adopt consistent processes to provide better and timelier exploration access to most minerals, it will streamline the process for resolving private land and access disputes, and eliminate special exploration licences. This one change will allow for a more competitive, fair, and timely process for acquisition of exploration licences to explore for potash, for example.

The Mineral Resources Act requires companies to have a community engagement plan for all stages of an exploration project. This is a new requirement, the first for any mining Act in Canada and supported by industry and non-government organization, and it is a clear testament to this government's intention to involve the communities in their own affairs. This requirement will serve to guide industry as companies create their own social licence and build public confidence in exploration and mining projects.

The Act will also contribute to the public confidence discussion by requiring regular reviews of mine reclamation plans and ensuring that mine sites have adequate reclamation security throughout the mining cycle - and I can't emphasize enough how important that is to Nova Scotians as we proceed into the future.

Mr. Speaker, our proposed legislation strikes the right balance between stimulating economic growth particularly in rural Nova Scotia, managing our natural resources, and protecting the environment.

Like many engaged Nova Scotians, our government also appreciates the value placed on our natural spaces, on our parks, and our protected areas. When the bill was before the Law Amendments Committee, the committee heard from a number of witnesses who were concerned that the bill doesn't contain the appropriate legislative tools to protect private land trust protected areas. Mr. Speaker, let me assure you, as well as other concerned Nova Scotians, that Clauses 59(1) and 36(2) of the new Mineral Resources Bill provide the minister with appropriate tools to protect Nova Scotia's most sensitive areas, wherever they may be in the province.

Those sections provide the minister with the authority to withdraw mineral rights and to not accept an application for a mineral exploration licence where acceptance of an application and mineral exploration are not in the best interests of the Crown or the public. Those sections of the bill provide the minister with the tools to make decisions which balance the benefits of economic development with protecting the environment.

[Page 9493]

I know that Nova Scotians share our concern for protecting the environment. It's a concern which is also shared by the mineral industry. It is important to remember that the potential environmental impacts of a mine project are assessed within the environmental assessment process, and in some cases mine projects are assessed by the federal and provincial environmental assessment, so two levels of stewardship. I am confident that the environmental assessment process managed by Nova Scotia Environment is robust, will appropriately assess the potential impact of mine projects, and provides an important opportunity for Nova Scotians who wish to provide their thoughts on the potential impact of new mine developments.

There were also a number of witnesses at the Law Amendments Committee who spoke to their concerns about pits and aggregate quarries. As you know, Mr. Speaker, pits and quarries are already administered by Nova Scotia Environment and do not need to be included within the Mineral Resources Act. Aggregate is not a mineral. Aggregate resources are not owned by the Crown. Aggregate operations are not defined as mines within the Mineral Resources Act.

I'm happy to report that the committee also had a number of witnesses from the mineral industry speak in favour of the bill. In a recent news release the Mining Association of Nova Scotia stated that the Mining Association has worked with the government on the review for several years, and we are pleased that the government accepted many of our recommendations for improving the Act. The Act has not been fully reviewed in a quarter of a century, so many of the changes are common-sense improvements that cut red tape and bring the Act in line with equivalent Acts in other provinces. The changes will make the Act more modern and efficient, and encourage more investment and job creation in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, 2016 is going to be a very exciting year for the mining industry and the province. We have a new Mineral Resources Act, and we're seeing some new prospects for projects, which have the potential to energize the industry and the province. It's not every day that a new mine comes into production, and we're looking forward to two mines coming on stream in the very near future. Of course, that's Atlantic Gold and Donkin. Work on the Donkin mine is progressing, and we could see the first coal being mined there in the next several months. At the same time construction work on the Atlantic Gold project at Moose River Gold Mines is scheduled to start this summer. Bringing those two projects into production will signal to a global mining community that Nova Scotia is open for business.

Gypsum has been a mainstay of our industry and we're encouraged to see that gypsum exports have increased this year over last year. We hope they will continue to grow and match the confidence outlined in a report by a senior economist at the Conference Board of Canada. The report called Canada's Next Export Era: Bringing Trade Back to the Future highlighted the growth in U.S. residential construction. The report that with this growth comes a corresponding demand for Canadian wood products, non-metallic minerals and materials like gypsum and cement, and also aggregate.

[Page 9494]

The government is committed to working with industry to find new markets and increase exports of Nova Scotia minerals to meet a growing international demand. I know that the mining industry has had a challenging few years, but I hope we've turned a corner and we'll experience more vibrant times ahead. The new Mineral Resources Act will serve the future of the industry and the province well.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to acknowledge the excellent work again of my staff at the Department of Natural Resources for drafting, developing, and delivering this bill. The Geoscience and Mines branch, and our policy branch has led the Mineral Resources Act review. Civil servants in those branches deserve our thanks for working in the best interest of communities in this sector of government. In addition, I'd like to acknowledge the fine work of staff in the Legislative Counsel Office, the Department of Justice, and Communications Nova Scotia in preparing this bill.

Mr. Speaker, it's important to the people of Nova Scotia and to this government, that we have an up-to-date Mineral Resources Act that helps us manage our mineral resources. It is one of the mandates of my portfolio and my duty as minister to enhance the regulatory framework for mineral exploration throughout the Mineral Resources Act. The new Act is a major step forward in achieving that goal, and I want to thank you all very much for the opportunity to speak on it.

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

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise today to speak to Bill No. 149, the Mineral Resources Act, and I was very interested to sit in Law Amendments Committee the day that everybody came to present. I noticed that there were 16 presenters there about this bill, and only two of them were in favour of the bill as it stands in full, and most of the rest of them - well, all the rest of them wanted amendments made to the bill, and are very disappointed that the government has not listened to their concerns and has not acted upon their suggestions for amendments.

So our caucus, the NDP caucus is therefore disappointed that the government has decided not to adopt the amendments proposed by the Nova Scotia Nature Trust, and in fact, Mr. Speaker, even Mark Parent, who was a former Environment Minister in this House of Assembly, spoke and he took part in EGSPA, and he said that Nova Scotians should be outraged to hear that this protected land is no longer going to be protected from the mining industry when it really only is equal to 0.5 per cent of the land that we're talking about, and he felt that it should, in fact, be protected.

So through their proposed amendments the Nature Trust has attempted to find a balance between economic development and environmental stewardship. They're not calling for any land included in the trust to be automatically removed from mineral resource development, but rather they simply want to provide a mechanism by which the minister could withdraw land trust-protected areas from mineral resource exploration and development.

[Page 9495]

This withdrawal mechanism, Mr. Speaker, already exists for various purposes such as temporary closures during the designation process for wilderness areas and nature reserves, and geoscience research. Private land conservation through the work of non-governmental land trusts is widely recognized as making a significant contribution to biodiversity conservation and protected areas in Nova Scotia, and biodiversity is very, very, very important in the health of the environment of any province, or any jurisdiction.

Seventy per cent of land in Nova Scotia is privately owned; 85 per cent of it in coastal areas is privately owned. Therefore, we should not underestimate the importance of the work of groups such as the Nature Trust. In fact, land trusts are critical to the government's ability to meet its own environmental goals and commitments. In fact, I've noticed that the Minister of Environment, the current minister, has made various notices of motion of land that she has been very proud of people in her area contributing to this. For instance, she gave a wonderful glowing recommendation to Hope Harrison and Terry Harrison who donated land to the province that increased the size of a planned nature reserve by nearly two-thirds, protecting a remnant patch of intact mixed forest in an agricultural and managed woodlot landscape, an underrepresented kind of property in our protected area system, Mr. Speaker.

She was also very proud that this donated land was the woodlot linked to the farm that Hope and her late husband Donald lived in near Maccan, land that had been in the family for four generations, land that Donald had carefully managed and protected from clear-cutting. It is now a beautiful area of mature forest with older red spruce, yellow birch, white ash and other hardwoods, near the confluence of the Maccan River and the River Hebert. In fact this long-term protection of this land was made in the memory of Donald and Alastair Harrison, by Hope, and Alastair's son Terry, to carry on the legacy of care and concern they had for the land.

The minister was very pleased and thankful that this beautiful and memorable contribution to Nova Scotia's protected areas has been acknowledged. She wanted to acknowledge the generosity and efforts of private landowners who choose to help protect our unique and important natural areas.

Now I'd like to table that, Mr. Speaker, because in fact what the Nova Scotia Nature Trust does is get land donated by people such as this, who would like to see the land protected for generations. They were saying in Law Amendments Committee that they are afraid that with this bill now passing the House, people will not know that this land will be protected, therefore they will be hesitant to actually contribute any land.

[Page 9496]

Now this is a problem, Mr. Speaker. Protecting lands of outstanding conservation value is important from an environmental standpoint, but these natural assets can also contribute to our economy through tourism and through recreational activities. Non-governmental land trusts have faced a significant impediment to private land conservation. That is, once a land trust is secured, the land is still potentially at risk from the impacts of mineral exploration and development.

Updating the Mineral Resources Act can actually be seen as an opportunity to address this issue. However, the government decided not to act on this opportunity. I have yet to hear anyone from the government side of the House speak as to why the amendments proposed by the Nova Scotia Nature Trust would not work. At Law Amendments Committee, one government member suggested that protecting land trusts could perhaps be done through the Department of Environment. Why would you not allow a withdrawal mechanism for the Natural Resources Minister, pertaining to the exploration and development of natural resources? It makes no sense to make that suggestion.

The Nova Scotia Nature Trust has proposed thoughtful amendments that propose a workable solution to situations where there could be overlap between land trusts and potential mineral exploration and development. The proposed withdrawal mechanism allows for ministerial discretion; that is, it would be up to the minister to decide if land held in trust should be removed from potential exploration and development. Again, Mr. Speaker, we're talking about a very, very minimal, very small percentage of land in Nova Scotia, 0.5 per cent.

In fact while we were there, one of the gentlemen from the mining corporations suggested that Nova Scotia is the second province in Canada to have as much protected land as we do right now - we're aiming for 13 per cent. Under our government we were able to reach close to 12 per cent of protected lands for which all kinds of people across the country gave us kudos and were very, very pleased. The CPAWS, for instance, were very pleased that we were well on our way to doing this and protecting this important land.

The gentlemen from the mining corporations suggested that this is not a good thing that we are second in Canada in having this protected land that they could not get at for mineral resources. In fact, I say we should be proud of this fact; I commend the Minister of Environment because she is proud of this fact, and she's said so several times in this House. Several times in this House, she has talked about how important this is. I believe that this is something that we need to continue to address here in Nova Scotia.

In conclusion, overall, the amount of land held in trust in Nova Scotia, as I said, is very small. Yet for these conservation groups, the significance of these proposed amendments, this cutting of red tape, as it is presented, cannot be underestimated. These are the groups who actively seek donations of land and money to help protect our land, Nova Scotia's land of high conservation value and further our environmental goals as a province and, again, our tourism.

[Page 9497]

People want to come to Nova Scotia to see our beauty. They don't want to come to see open pit mines. They want to come and see our beautiful historic buildings; they want to come and see the beauty of the province; they want to come and see places that they've seen on television and in film, and they come from all around the world to see it.

In fact, just recently, I heard a story in Truro. Trailer Park Boys is in fact coming back, and last year there was a young woman from Germany who came, and they saw her standing at the side watching. One of the crew members went up and asked: Are you here for any reason, are you waiting for somebody? She said, oh, no, I come from Germany, and I love Trailer Park Boys. It's my favourite show. All my friends watch it. I came because I want to see Trailer Park Boys; I've come to Bible Hill, Nova Scotia, to see Trailer Park Boys.

So the crew member asked, would you like to meet the Trailer Park Boys? She couldn't believe her ears. She said, I could meet these people? They said yes, so they brought her on set and they introduced her. She had a great time chatting away with them. Then they asked, would you like to be an extra on the show so that all your friends back in Germany can see you on the Trailer Park Boys?

So indeed she spent several days. She changed her trip, and she spent several days in Bible Hill, Nova Scotia, in a hotel, spending money on food, and drinks probably, things to eat and a bed to stay in. Then she got to be an extra on the Trailer Park Boys, which is now seen all over the world - 200 different countries all over the world now watch Trailer Park Boys. That's what I'm talking about - the creative economy and why that is important for them to see not only the beauty that Nova Scotia holds, but also anywhere that a show is shot, people are very interested and curious, and they want to come and see it.

These conservation groups, it's very, very important to them to try and save these lands. They're trying to meet international standards as well for land conservation.

I would like to say the NDP caucus supports the mining industry. We support any industry in Nova Scotia that adds to our GDP, including the film industry which adds $180 million to the GDP. We value the 5,500 jobs in the mining industry; we value the 3,200 jobs in the film industry. We also value the millions of dollars of economic activity that each of these industries generates year after year.

We recognize that this bill being proposed by the government makes changes that are supported by the industry. For example, changing the required renewal of exploration licences from one year to two years, that makes sense. Raising the limit to begin mining production from two to five years, that makes sense. However, I believe accepting the proposed amendments of the Nova Scotia Nature Trust would allow for a greater balance between mineral exploration, development, and environmental stewardship.

[Page 9498]

I believe as Nova Scotians, each and every one of us in this House should make that a priority. Especially with climate change, this is going to be a very, very urgent issue in the years to come. Again, all that is being proposed is for a discretionary withdrawal mechanism which the minister may or may not use. It is clear that the amendments proposed by the Nature Trust have the endorsement of the environmental community. At Law Amendments, we heard from the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Nova Scotia chapter of Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, and the chair of the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute. All of these presenters gave their support to the amendments proposed by the Nature Trust.

This is not a case of the environmental community versus development; it is the opposite. In fact this is working together, if this government was farsighted enough to be able to see that and act upon it. In fact, after more than 20 years, there has only been 0.5 per cent overlap between land held in trust and active mineral claims. Our caucus recognizes the improvements in this bill as compared to the previous Mineral Resources Act. We know that the government has a majority and that this bill will pass, as have all of their other bills. However, we believe the government is really, really missing an opportunity to address a long-standing issue regarding land trusts.

The Nature Trust has proposed thoughtful amendments, thoughtful amendments that seek to provide a workable solution going forward and this government has given no feedback, absolutely zero feedback regarding why they find a problem with these amendments and why they have ignored the proposed amendments. This to me, and to our NDP caucus, seems entirely unreasonable. Perhaps, we should not be surprised though. Therefore, in support of the amendments proposed by the Nature Trust, we will not be supporting this bill. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : If I recognize the minister it will be to close debate.

The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for the remarks.

The Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, the Nova Scotia Nature Trust, the Canadian Nature Conservancy, the Ecology Action Centre, and Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Nova Scotia division, are strong partners for the government of this province. We enjoy many strong interdependent relationships with these ENGOs, which we look forward to examining in future with an eye to improving them.

The matter of the ministerial discretion that has been mentioned exists in the legislation in Section 36.2, and the government is very proud of the fact that we were able to meet and surpass the legislated requirement for 12 per cent of the land mass in the province to be under the Wilderness Protection Act. In the overall picture, we are very comfortable with this piece of legislation.

[Page 9499]

I move to close debate on Bill No. 149.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 149. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 162.

Bill No. 162 - Elections Act.

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

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 162, the Elections Act, now be read for a third time.

Mr. Speaker, during second reading in Law Amendments Committee, I was pleased to hear from other members of the House and also from the stakeholder Mark Coffin, from Springtide Collective. I wanted to thank Mr. Coffin for his comments during Law Amendments Committee and acknowledge his support of the amendments in the bill.

I also commend the work that Springtide Collective does, especially their efforts to engage more youth in voting, which is so important when we're here today talking about changes to the Elections Act. Certainly I would like to acknowledge the help from the partners at Elections Nova Scotia and the Election Commission, for their counsel and guidance as we drafted these amendments.

Mr. Speaker, these are important amendments to the bill, to better align Nova Scotia's legislation with the best practices from across the country. They'll correct issues raised in previous implementations of the Act and they'll allow for administrative changes that will actually improve the processes that we all follow.

I'm pleased, Mr. Speaker, that through these amendments, we have the opportunity to improve our elections processes, after national and local elections have shown us things that could be done differently. The establishment of a maximum writ period will help manage taxpayers' costs and ensure that we're filling vacant seats in a timely manner. Other amendments will also improve consistency, fairness and access, and we will improve outdated and inconvenient administrative processes that impact both election workers and electors.

[Page 9500]

Mr. Speaker, this bill represents a positive step forward for Nova Scotia and ensures that we manage costs while offering access to timely elections in Nova Scotia. It's in line with the best practices from across Canada and I look forward to hearing from others on this third reading. Thank you.

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

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : I almost feel a bit ashamed to get up and raise a point here, given that the Premier has given me the privilege of setting the next election date, which was set recently for October 10, 2017. (Interruptions) That's the next election but what about the elections after that and what if I'm not here to call them, Mr. Speaker? I don't dare tempt fate with those words.

One of the things we see missing with this legislation is, of course, the requirement for fixed election dates. It was something that Elections Nova Scotia brought forward and something we support.

Mr. Speaker, I move that the motion be amended by deleting all the words after the word "that" and substituting the following therefor: Bill No. 162, an Act to Amend Chapter 5 of the Acts of 2011, the Elections Act, be not now read a third time but be referred back to the Committee of the Whole House on Bills for the purpose of adding a provision providing for fixed-date elections.

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

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, it's my privilege to say a few words about fixed election dates. I understand that we are the only jurisdiction left in Canada of the provinces that does not have fixed-date elections. I know there have been bills brought in by the Opposition Parties in the past: both the now government side has brought in a bill to have fixed-date elections and we brought a bill in. It seems to be something that is easy to be in favour of when you are in Opposition but difficult when you are in government. That causes one to scratch his head and wonder why. The lack of a fixed date seems to be something that the government enjoys having the prerogative of calling the date when they see an opportune moment.

However, it has been reported - I've heard two different numbers on the cost to the province for not having a fixed date. The cost to the province is anywhere between $500,000 and $1.5 million. I've heard both numbers in the past and I don't know which is correct.

I know in my experience - and every member of this House has gone through multiple elections, I've gone through one and many of you have gone through many more - one of the issues is lining up volunteers. Not knowing when the election is going to be is certainly a factor, a difficulty, in knowing how to line up your volunteers. There are many human sides to the uncertainty. There are a lot of reasons why - cost, predictability, government staff being able to deal with it, Elections Nova Scotia being able to line up their staff and who they're paying. All of those things play into this. There are many good reasons to have fixed election dates. As I said, it's my understanding that every other jurisdiction in Canada has it.

[Page 9501]

However, we know that in the past governments in Nova Scotia have taken advantage of calling an election earlier - there is some speculation that that may happen again. Maybe that's why the government has chosen not to include a fixed election date in this bill.

I know that when we saw the report from Elections Nova Scotia, immediately following the 2013 election, most of the recommendations in the report on the election of 2013, and this was stated right in that report, nearly all of them hinged on having a fixed election date - so if you have a fixed election date, and then there were a number of other recommendations in that report. The singular key element of that analysis of what went on in the 2013 election from Elections Nova Scotia's perspective was that we have a fixed election date.

It's a little bit hard to fathom why we don't have that now. I know it's very clear how tight money is for the province. There have been a number of things cut, some very good things cut, in the past - funding to organizations like Schizophrenia Nova Scotia, CNIB, and the $500,000 that we would save, or the or $1.5 million, if that number is correct, would go a long way to funding some of these organizations. Surely the government's prerogative of having the opportunity to call the election at its pleasure is not as important and not worth some of these organizations not getting funding if that's the choice. I know that government is about choices. A dollar spent one place - a dollar saved is money in your pocket and could be spent somewhere else. It's a little bit hard for me to fathom why this wouldn't happen.

Another reason it's a little bit hard for me to fathom why the government wouldn't have brought this in right now is simply because they said they would - they said that in Opposition when they brought in bills to that effect, that they would have a fixed election date. I think it's very important for government to be committed to what it says it's going to do. If something was said, that was a position, and there has to be a very compelling reason why the fixed election dates were not included in the bill. I would appreciate hearing from the minister, when we get to closing comments, why it was not included.

I think that if a government says it's going to do something, the people of the province look to the province to keep its word, and that is, I think, a very compelling argument for doing something, especially when it's something that will save a considerable amount of money, which forms the basis of most of the recommendations from the Elections Nova Scotia report from 2013.

[Page 9502]

Many good reasons - and every other jurisdiction in the country reportedly has fixed election dates. We are falling behind the times.

I know my colleague, the member for Inverness has picked an election date in October. Give me the opportunity to pick an election date, I would suggest May or June when we have those nice long evenings because it seems like that opportunity to be out at the doorstep kind of evaporates as the night sets, and in those warm Spring days I would like to see a fixed election date for that. There's a theory out there that if the public is more optimistic they're more likely to vote Progressive Conservative, so that would be to our advantage, I believe.

As a farmer, I love those nice long evenings in May and June and when we start getting longer days, I do not know if my colleagues in the House are as aware of the impact that the change in the seasons has on day length. Certainly, in the early part of the summer we have the longest day of the year, June 21^st, sunset is approximately at 10:00 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. and we have very good weather. So, my choice would be a date in May. I know that it would be the prerogative of the government to actually (Interruption) I know, and Allan has that power. I have to speak to the Premier about that and get that privilege from him. I do not expect to get the privilege; I am just offering another (Interruption)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. I am obligated to remind the member for Kings North not to refer to our colleagues by their given name.

The honourable member for Kings North has the floor.

MR. LOHR « » : My apologies, Mr. Speaker. The member for Inverness has that prerogative. I know I am privileged so I will accept his recommendation but I would choose another date.

Nevertheless, to go back to the point, the point is that even small things matter in the terms of public perception of what we are doing. To have said that you are going to do something, even a small thing like the date of the election which is highly pertinent to us in this House, but maybe less pertinent to the general public; they accept that it comes and goes. It is a big factor in our lives but in the overall scheme of the province, maybe the actual date of the election is not as big an issue. It is a small way that you could show the public that you are keeping your word, you are doing what you said you were going to do. I know that when the government does not do that, it hurts all of us in the Legislature. It makes people think politicians don't keep their word, don't trust politicians. When that happens, it is very detrimental to the credibility of government.

This is one example of a simple matter, a matter that would clearly save the Province of Nova Scotia money, a matter that would help all of us in planning things like vacations and events with our children and our families and all of the volunteers that every one of us manages to find - 30, 40, 50 volunteers for our campaigns - and that adds up to being a fair number of people. It would add predictability to all of that process.

[Page 9503]

I believe that a fixed election date would be positive. I think this bill is severely lacking for that. That is the one clear element in the way that we function as a Legislature that is waiting to be done. I know that as I said it has been - I believe the now Premier in his role in Opposition brought a bill in with four fixed election dates, and possibly other members of the government have done that, too, and I am not aware of that. I know that it has been something that all - I am not sure where the Third Party stands - but at least these two Parties, our Party and the government, have been on the record of being in favour of it. It is an act of modernization that could come to this House very easily at the stroke of a pen. We are bringing in an amendment to see that that happens, and I would speak in favour of the amendment. With those few words, I will take my seat. Thank you.

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

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wasn't planning on doing any pile of speaking to the amendment but in listening to my colleagues from both Inverness and from down in the Valley, I thought I should say a few words. When this government came into power, they promised they would be the most open and transparent government in history.

I believe that on four different occasions the now Premier has introduced this fixed election date while in Opposition, four different times, I believe. I could be wrong, and I stand corrected on that if I am. What changes? What changes when you get to that side of the House compared to what you say on this side of the House? I think part of being open and transparent is saying what you do and doing what you say. If it was okay to bring that forward in Opposition, what changes by the time you get to government?

I believe, in my own mind, what changes is the fact of the surprise element. There are polls done, I think it's quarterly, on the popularity of governments and that popularity goes up, that popularity goes down, depending on what bills are introduced, what is being talked about in the Legislature at the time, the popularity of your federal cousins, and the popularity of municipal governments.

I think with that popularity, having that ability to call an election when they think that every other Party is probably not ready yet, they don't have enough people nominated, the fatigue factor of people if there has been an election already - a municipal or a federal election - I believe both the federal and municipal governments both have fixed election dates, so having a Party that's high in the polls they could call an election tomorrow and it would probably benefit the Party in power.

Mr. Speaker, if we're going to be open and transparent about what we're doing and how we're doing it, why not tell the people when they're going to plan for an election? It holds the government accountable on everything it does all year long and within the four years. We can't hold back a bunch of things until we're ready to introduce some good ideas and then call an election because that might raise you high in the polls a little bit. It makes you be smooth and steady, as the old proverb goes - "slow and steady wins the race." So that would seem the ideal thing to do.

[Page 9504]

We in this House could all plan our campaigns around that, our campaign teams around that. We all rely on volunteers. Everybody in this House who gets elected has a good group of volunteers, solid volunteers who follow and help, and all along come along, but if we're going to drop an election very quick and some of your most valuable volunteers aren't home, they're on vacation, they have something else planned at that time, that hurts every one of us.

We know the government will know when that will be, they have the power - except for lately we heard that the member for Inverness is going to get that power. I think everybody in the House would like to have the power of when we would call that election - except the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, he likes the shock factor, I think. But we'll know when the election is close because we will start to smell his department's asphalt in the air. It seems like it's a common denominator. I'm sure that will happen - except my constituency won't smell asphalt if I keep it up.

You know, Mr. Speaker, Elections Nova Scotia has recommended this, that we do have fixed election dates. They brought it forward in the last elections report. The cost they say, I think I heard $1 million but my colleague said between $500,000 and $1.5 million. A lot of money that could be added to other areas of government to improve the health care system, improve the education system, improve the community services system. It could be the funding that was cut to the CNIB, the funding that was cut to other departments that could have had an extra $20,000 or $30,000 thrown at them. Just think of what these groups could do with this little bit of extra money. If we saved that money, it could be used for that.

Now we've also heard that in this budget there's a surplus of $70 million. Then the next day we hear of a need of a new helicopter, money being passed out to certain groups which cuts into that surplus. So having that little extra money could pad that a little bit. That extra money that comes up through the year could be used for that and, if that could be used, that would be fabulous for the groups who need it.

I used the polling a minute ago, as I do with a sporting event - teams go into a seven game series in a hockey game, game seven goes to the team with the higher standings, which would work the same way with the government. If you can get into the fact that polls sometimes dictate how people vote, if you're not sure you may go with the poll at the time, it's only going to benefit the government. If we're going to have a true democracy, as my colleague said, it's campaigning, talking to people on the doorsteps, letting them know what your policies are, what your personal opinions are on certain things, what you plan on doing to help the constituents, not what their polling is at the time because of what they just introduced last week. I think the fixed-election dates are very important not just to the people in this House but to people in this province, people who could use the money that the government saves for their groups, people who are planning to help the political process along could plan their life around that.

[Page 9505]

I know personally if we had a fixed election date, we could start planning for that six months or a year in advance, and it wouldn't be such a strain on our volunteers because we could do a little bit at a time. The members who were recently elected in all Parties of the House have "elect" signs. Just to change them over to "re-elect" signs is a sticker and time to put them on. If you are fortunate enough to have a lot of signs, it would be nice to know that you could have two volunteers, a couple of hours a week here and there, to get those signs ready, to put the re-elect sticker on them. To not have that and to have it thrown upon you thinking that the election is in four years, it's only to the advantage of the government.

Hearing the bills that were introduced on fixed election dates while the government was in Opposition, and not to have it happen now, is another broken promise. A number of broken promises that we heard that it's okay to make when you're in Opposition but not okay to follow through while you're in government. Mr. Speaker, I think if you're going to be responsible, open, and transparent, the promises you make on this side, you should be able to carry through on that side. With those few words, I'll take a seat.

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : I wasn't going to speak to this one, but the member for Yarmouth - I had to say a few words on it. I want to thank him for egging me on there just a little bit, encouraging me. I think the point that we've all heard here is that all Parties of this House have spoken to the issue of fixed election dates. Quite honestly, we've spoken to it so much that most people would be surprised that we don't have a fixed election date. As a matter of fact, we know that the other two levels of government, the federal level and the municipal level, have fixed election dates so you just know time after time when things are going along. You know when to get ready. You know when not to. (Interruptions)

The feds didn't follow their dates, but at the end of the day, there is a target. There's a target. The target might be this big, but there is a target for doing it.

There are situations where a government should reserve the right to make a decision in one way or another. But depending on what kind of government we get, we know full well that should there be a minority government in Nova Scotia, which I participated in on two occasions, the fixed election date issue does not apply because of course a government can fall on a vote of confidence, mostly around a budget, but it could happen on other things. So we know that a fixed election date doesn't really work in that particular case.

[Page 9506]

But we need to aspire at least to a three- to four-year period so that we all can make our decision. We know how hard it is to find our volunteers - that has been talked about. But we also have to find the dollars to actually do this. That of course takes time now because of the way financing law is today where we can only take personal donations - we can't take business donations - it takes that much longer to be able to fundraise those kinds of dollars that quite honestly within a three- to four-year span gives you enough time to make sure that your war chest is ready to go for the next election.

There is a savings to government. The savings to government has been spoken about, somewhere between $500,000 and $1.5 million. That's a savings that can be used for other things. I'm sure there are many other things it could be used for within government. There are many MLAs who sit in this House looking at valuable projects that could be funded by dollars that would be saved by this.

Just from a population standpoint, having a guesstimate of when an election is going to be called, I think is a good thing. We know right now that people are speculating that there's a possibility of an election in the Fall. The member for Yarmouth said to get ready on a number of occasions. (Interruptions) There's a municipal one for sure. (Interruption) I'm always ready for a good election. There's a number of good candidates running there, and they're making their announcements now to get moving. They know exactly when they're able to go and when they're not able to go, and I think there's some good value in that.

That's why Elections Nova Scotia has suggested in a number of its reports, and the government, of course, has accepted every one of their recommendations except for this one because it is the one thing that a Premier can hold on to when it is in his or her benefit, when the polls are looking right and the dollars and cents are looking right and the media is looking right, then they can finally pull the plug so it's to their benefit. I think that's what the idea is, to take away at least that benefit that all Parties in this House, that all voices by our electors are heard and respected when that election comes.

With those few words I thank everybody for the opportunity. For those of you who did listen, I appreciate that fact. Fixed election dates have been suggested by all Parties and it would be interesting to see when we do get this to actually happen. I just sit and hope that someday some government will find it within their heart to actually pull the plug on this one. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for the amendment, as proposed by the honourable member for Inverness. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is defeated.

[Page 9507]

If I recognize the minister it will be to close the debate.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I think we've had an opportunity to look at quite a number of changes that are proposed to this Act. I think they will make the administration of our elections a lot more efficient in the future. I think they've put some parameters around time and around some of the administrative functions of the elections.

We've certainly learned some things in the last few years, based on the very long federal election, for example, and some of the confusion around filling seats that are vacated in the House, and how that can be done more efficiently.

So with that, Mr. Speaker, I would like to move that we close debate on Bill No. 162.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 162. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 154.

Bill No. 154 - Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 154 be now read a third time and do pass.

Again, to remind the House, this is the bill related to the electoral financing bylaw, that this will be enabling HRM to develop, to ensure they have an open, transparent process for election expense financing. This is the result of the leadership of Mayor Savage, who has pushed to bring these rules into place and to allow the province to give that responsibility over to the municipality.

So we're very happy to move forward with this bill, and I do look forward to the comments from the members opposite.

[Page 9508]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 154. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 152.

Bill No. 152 - Municipal Government Act and Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I did look forward to standing on this bill and thanking my colleagues for their comments and quickly sitting down, but of course throughout the course of debate on third reading members of the Opposition have given us a number of things to consider and reply to, so I will do my due diligence, as minister, in providing that response so that the House has a full understanding of the reasons why we're bringing this bill forward and why I do not think we should follow the lead of the Opposition and oppose this bill or delay it any longer.

I do want to thank the member for Pictou West for her full endorsement in support of this bill, Mr. Speaker. I will take an excerpt from her comments and table these just for the sake of the House:

". . . we are happy to support this bill, Bill No. 152, the Municipal Government Act and Halifax Regional Municipality Charter, which certainly allows us to reduce a lot of red tape. Anything that helps any administration with backlog of paperwork to move more quickly, making sure that there are more efficiencies and being more effective to help constituents is always in our favour, and anything that we can see that modernizes the processes by increasing better technology is always important to us."

I do want to thank the Leader of the Official Opposition who stood on this bill shortly after the member for Pictou West and the member for Pictou East, who quickly brought us into the land of ardent ridiculousness where logic and reason seemed to be dead as we know it. I do appreciate the Leader of the Official Opposition with his meandering, abstract, mostly irrelevant, confusing, and contradictory stream of consciousness that was presented. I do think it is important that we recognize some of the arguments that were put forward and respond to them.

[Page 9509]

I do take exception to the Leader of the Official Opposition's notion that we have not in fact provided proper analysis of this bill. In fact, he contemplated why there was no analysis provided to the implication of this bill with the constitution, with the labour market, with the effect on our agreements with the Mi'kmaq. He mentioned the Workers' Compensation Board of Nova Scotia.

The ferry was obviously a big component of the Leader of the Official Opposition's commentary of this bill, and other important stuff including clotheslines. When he mentioned the clotheslines he said that at least for some people, clotheslines and the regulation of clotheslines was a real concern. You can see how that could be - maybe you live in a congested area like Halifax and maybe you actually have to view your obstructed neighbour's clothesline or maybe the clothes that they hang out are not as clean as they should be. That was on Bill No. 152

I want to be very clear. The reason why the government has not provided an analysis of this bill and its relation to those various things is because it is so blatantly obvious that the bill was not related, and we would not take up the House's time or any member's time to provide an irrelevant analysis of this bill.

So, let us talk about why this bill is being presented and what the arguments presented by the Opposition are to oppose it. This bill is simply a process that allows municipalities to move from a paper-based application for debentures, which are absolutely critical to our municipal infrastructure, capital projects, programming and service delivery - from a paper-based system that requires a seal to a digital system, whether it be email or whatever new digital technologies come out.

The opposition to this bill I found to be particularly curious. The member for Pictou East, the great orator from Pictou East, who I will add has not contributed to the important conversation in the municipality of the Pictous and in that region around structural change. He has not applied his skills of rhetoric and argument in that area, but has so ably applied them in this House to oppose a bill that allows those same municipalities to apply for critical financing through the Municipal Finance Corporation, and who has applied those skills to attack what is a critical piece of transportation infrastructure for the Province of Nova Scotia. That is where those skills have been applied.

When that member was asked to participate in a media interview with a local paper on the proposed amalgamation of those four units in Pictou, that member chose actually to not even participate in that media call. Yet we do see those skills being used to attack the ferry that connects this province to Portland and to filibuster Bill No. 152.

Let's look at the reasons why the member for Pictou East has opposed this bill. One, there are too many bills; there are too many bills coming forward. That is indicative of a government that has no plan - interesting argument. I will say this government does have a plan on the Municipal Government Act, which is to actually have a completed, modernized piece of legislation by 2017. What we will do is continue with incremental advances and changes that are reasonable and that everybody agrees to between now and then. (Interruption)

[Page 9510]

Mr. Speaker, I know that the member for Pictou East thinks laws are like The Lord of the Rings and there's one to rule them all. Where's the law that fixes our economy and our health care system and our partnership with our municipalities and everything? Where's that one law that rules them all?

You know, a laudable goal is to find that one law that fixes all of our challenges, and then we can spend all of our time in this Legislature debating that. But until we find that, perhaps we should still advance with incremental changes as we see fit. Perhaps we should have surgical applications like this one to deal with an outdated law and eliminate it from the system.

Let's apply that same logic that the member for Pictou East had to the science community. There are physicists, there are mathematicians, and there are scientists who are looking for the theory of everything, for an equation that explains the nature of the universe. That is unbelievable, and I can't wait until we find that great discovery and all of our existence is fully explained. But imagine if the scientific community said, "Oh, and by the way, while we pursue this there'll be no advances in scientific discovery." Imagine if the scientific community said that, Mr. Speaker. So I reject that argument from that member based on pure logic.

Now let's move to the arguments presented by the Leader of the Official Opposition against Bill No. 152 - again, a bill that will simply allow municipalities to send in an email application for debentures, for loans that are backed by the province at a lower rate, that are so critical to the economy of our municipalities and communities.

I'll quote the Leader of the Official Opposition: "I mean really, if we're going to get rid of the red seal, isn't that just one step on the way to disorder anyway? Isn't that where we're headed, Mr. Speaker, where we can't even rely on an official seal anymore?"

The Leader of the Official Opposition continues:

"It all goes back to the Magna Carta and that great seal put on the Magna Carta by King John signifying that it was an official document that carried the full weight of the country. You know, Mr. Speaker, it turns out that the process of affixing a seal to official documents actually goes back even further than the Magna Carta." - which was signed in 1215, Mr. Speaker - "Lucky for us, since we have time to talk about this, we can actually look at the history of these seals. It turns out that the process of affixing a seal goes back to Old Testament days . . . back to Roman times."

[Page 9511]

This is the argument being put forward by the Leader of the Progressive Conservatives, that we should not proceed with this because of the historical significance and his personal obsession with the Magna Carta and historical seals, Mr. Speaker.

I would argue to the Opposition members, to the Progressive Conservatives across, that perhaps in 1215, perhaps in the time 2,000 years before now or before the Common Era, perhaps if they had access to emails and digital signatures, the seal wouldn't have been such a big idea. I would suggest that anybody who actually suggested that that idea was coming down the pipe at those particular points in time probably would have been charged with heresy and fed to lions, crucified, or burned at the stake.

This is 2016, Mr. Speaker, where we have emails. Emails have not led to a general sense of social disorder. Our institutions have not broken down because of digital communication.

But it's interesting that the Leader of the Official Opposition has mentioned the wax seal, because the word "sincere" actually comes from a Latin term, which is "sine cera," which is "without wax." Where that word comes from is there were merchants who would try to sell statues that had problems with them, and they would put wax on the statue to try to fool the buyer by telling them look, this statue's perfect. The honest merchants of that time - of Roman times, since the Leader of the Official Opposition brought it up - would advertise their pure statues as without wax, or sine cera.

I think the analogy I'm making is pretty obvious, Mr. Speaker, and at risk of speaking unparliamentarily, I would hope that the analogy resonates with the members opposite.

So let's just look at what this actual bill does. It takes a process . . .

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Nothing.

MR. CHURCHILL « » : The member for Argyle-Barrington says this bill does nothing and accomplishes nothing, and I do take great exception to that commentary. (Interruptions) Mr. Speaker, if the member for Argyle-Barrington was serious about this bill meaning nothing, perhaps he could have told his Leader and the member for Pictou East when they were filibustering this bill for two hours. It's hard to believe that a Leader of the Official Opposition is going to speak on a bill for two hours that's about nothing.

Let's look at what this bill actually does and what it accomplishes. It takes a paper-based process that takes days to weeks, depending on where you live in the province, that entails someone actually filling out an application by hand, affixing a stamp, delivering that to a mailbox, someone else picking it up at the mailbox, bringing that to the post office, someone else sorting the post, and then somebody else delivering that with a vehicle to its intended destination at the Department of Municipal Affairs. That is a process that takes days to weeks for municipalities. This change allows that to happen instantaneously - instantaneously.

[Page 9512]

To put that into perspective for the members of the Opposition, in the two hours that the Leader of the Official Opposition and the member for Pictou East filibustered this bill, we could have technically received approximately 7,600 applications because of this change. In the two weeks that it's taken to pass this bill as a result of the actions of the Official Opposition Party, technically speaking we could have received over 200,000 applications. That is why this bill is relevant to Nova Scotians.

One point I will concede to the Leader of the Official Opposition: he asked how many people went up to government and said, the real problem is the red seal that you need at the end of a legal document; that's really getting in the way. How many people brought that up? Where's the public outcry about these seals, Mr. Speaker? I will concede that there has not been a public outcry, but I would argue it's because people actually expect us to be doing this. People expect government to receive digital applications for things.

I think there would be a public outcry if the public was made aware that the Leader of the Progressive Conservatives was against digital applications for things as critical as these loans because of his historical obsession with the Magna Carta. Then I think you would have a public outcry. I'll tell you, the public wouldn't be at our door, Mr. Speaker. They wouldn't be at our door.

This is a pattern of behaviour that we have seen time and time again. We see a Leader of the Official Opposition who stands up in this House, invoking the Ivany report, invoking the challenges that were presented by Ivany, every time that he has a chance to. Let's just remind ourselves here what Ivany challenged us to do as legislators and politicians. Ivany challenged us to rise to those better qualities of the human character, put our partisanship aside when we're able to, and work for the better good of our community. That is what Ivany challenged us to do.

Yet we have a Leader of the Official Opposition who stands up and filibusters a bill that is so blatantly reasonable, so blatantly obvious. I think that is exactly the opposite of what Ivany challenged us to do, so I take great exception to that Leader invoking Ivany in such a ridiculous filibuster commentary on this particular bill.

Let's look at the other patterns of behaviour. That same Leader was graciously given an invitation to join the One Nova Scotia Commission with the members of the New Democratic Party, with other (Interruptions)

[Page 9513]

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

MR. CHURCHILL « » : A Leader who was so graciously invited to participate as an equal in the One Nova Scotia Commission, as the member for Argyle-Barrington would say, and he even chaired some meetings. That One Nova Scotia Commission is actually a pretty important group. It represents various sectors - not-for-profit, corporate, NGO, and academic sectors. It has been responsible for choosing some very significant policy priorities for our government.

When that member had an option to participate in that committee, what did he do? The Leader of the Official Opposition chose to leave. He chose to write his own report. The champion of Ivany - the great champion of Ivany. The same Leader who, when the fires were consuming Fort McMurray last week and the week before, sent out a partisan press, and the member for Argyle-Barrington says we were doing nothing. I want to inform that member, there is a mutual agreement that Nova Scotia has with all provinces, as they have with us: we act when those who are leading the charge to deal with a particular catastrophe request that we do act, that we do send resources. (Interruptions) Now anyone . . .

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. I just want to remind the member for Argyle-Barrington that the honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs has the floor.

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Now every single emergency management professional will tell you that unsolicited volunteering, that unsolicited show of resources actually creates more confusion and puts people's lives at risk. So not only was that member's Party acting in a way that was not fair, it was acting in a way that was irresponsible - the champions of Ivany over there in the Opposition, the same member, the same Leader who will stand and present a Private Member's Bill eliminating the right to strike for public workers; that same Leader who, when Joan Jessome is in the gallery, will stand with her and fight that the unions get what they want; the same Leader who will attack our government saying you are not doing enough to rein in spending, you are not doing enough to rein in spending; that same Leader will then say, why are you reining in the costs of labour in the province? The champion of Ivany.

These are all issues that were brought up in the debate when the Leader of the Opposition talked for over an hour on this and I need an opportunity to reply to it. We've seen the same pattern of behaviour with the Yarmouth ferry where just a few years ago and even months ago, the position of the Progressive Conservatives was - what I want the people of Yarmouth to know, and I also made this clear to the ferry partnership, is the PC Party has always supported the Yarmouth ferry, even when it needed financial help. (Interruptions) The Leader of the Opposition, 2012.

[Page 9514]

Mr. Speaker, more than 2,000 jobs have been lost since the government stopped subsidizing . . .

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

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, and I appreciate the member for Argyle-Barrington speaking on this because his voice has been noticeably absent from this conversation on the ferry that connects Nova Scotia to one of our most important trading partners. And the member for Queens-Shelburne, Mr. Speaker, who has stood in this House and attacked the deal that we have with the ferry operator because there were three blackout days where Portland had other cruise ships coming in and they needed those days to accommodate them.

What that member didn't mention was that we had four blackout seasons under the NDP Government. So I'm sorry but I won't take any commentary from the member for Queens-Shelburne who wasn't even able to run in his own home, who had to run 100 kilometres north to run in a different region because of the devastating impact of that ferry.

Let's look at the reasons why the Leader of the Official Opposition in his debate on Bill No. 152 argued that the international ferry to Portland was a bad move; it's a bad deal they say. Why? Just a few years ago, Mr. Speaker, this was said: the ferry met all the tests of common sense. It returned far more to the provincial treasury than it cost. Keltic Lodge in Cape Breton can count room night losses because of the loss of the Yarmouth ferry. That was the Leader of the Official Opposition, Mr. Speaker.

Now what does that Leader say? It's a boondoggle. It's a bottomless pit and we're only spending money to save the seat in Yarmouth. How disingenuous is that?

Mr. Speaker, according to the member for Argyle-Barrington - this is absolutely important for the sake of our arguments on Bill No. 152 - Yarmouth County residents have lost a vital link to the U.S. that contributed about $175 million to the province's tourism industry annually - $175 million annually. So let's just look at the Tory math on this.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. I want to remind all members of the House that the Minister of Municipal Affairs has the floor. When other people had a chance to speak there was respectful listening, so last call. The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

MR. CHURCHILL « » : So this is a bad deal for Nova Scotians now but according to the Progressive Conservative's own math, Mr. Speaker, we're spending $10 million on this boat a year, and according to the Progressive Conservatives, the return is $175 million. What investor wouldn't invest in that? Now this is a bad deal.

[Page 9515]

They have argued that it's because the federal government isn't paying. The federal government did not pay for this ferry when the Progressive Conservatives fought to keep Bay Ferries and the last Cat in place, when the NDP cut it. According to the Leader of the Official Opposition - and I have his quotes here, which I will table - it doesn't matter what level of government is paying, because there is but one taxpayer. That's the Leader of the Official Opposition's commentary. Yet with the Yarmouth ferry - the Nova Scotia ferry, which connects Yarmouth to Portland - for some reason that doesn't matter. (Interruptions)

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

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'm glad the member for Northside-Westmount mentioned this, and I do want to assure the member that I would never advocate for getting rid of (Interruption) I did not.

Mr. Speaker, let me say this on the record. (Interruption) That's ridiculous.

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

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'm glad that the member for Northside-Westmount brought this up, because of course - and I'll say it on the record here, in Hansard.

I would never advocate to get rid of any of the ferries that connect Nova Scotia to our provincial partners or to our international partners, or connect citizens on islands to the mainland. I would never advocate that.

The point I was making is in the consistency of the policy position of the Progressive Conservatives. They've said, this is a bad deal, it's a bottomless pit. But in fact, when you compare the ferry deal to the cost of all the other ferries that connect our province to our partners, the cost is actually very similar in most cases. So in Digby to Saint John, the cost is around $8 million annually; P.E.I. to Caribou, Nova Scotia, it's about $12 million - it's actually more expensive to run that ferry. (Interruption)

The member for Queens-Shelburne has said, well, the federal government is not involved with these. That's true. We don't control the federal government in this House. The Leader of the Official Opposition has already said that there is only one taxpayer.

Mr. Speaker, the Marine Atlantic ferry that connects North Sydney to Newfoundland and Labrador costs about $130 million a year. I know how important it is, and I would never advocate that the federal government does not pay for that, but the same can be said for the ferry that connects Yarmouth and Portland.

[Page 9516]

I do want to quote the member for Northside-Westmount, because I agree with these sentiments: "The fact that he would try to cut the throat of the people who work on the Newfoundland ferry system, or cut the ferry system itself . . . I mean, we've got a ferry in Digby, a ferry in Pictou, all receive funding, we understand that. There's not a ferry in the province that doesn't receive funding, some kind of subsidy."

Mr. Speaker, the member for Northside-Westmount is making the same arguments that the people from Yarmouth and southwestern Nova Scotia are making to keep our ferry. Those are the points that I'm making in this Legislature. (Applause)

Now, the member has also said (Interruptions)

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

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The member has also suggested that the passenger counts are much lower in Yarmouth. I do want to assure the member - and I have the passenger counts here - that the passenger counts are actually on par, and are more in certain months on the ferry between Yarmouth and Portland than they are on some of the other ferries. When you look at the per-passenger subsidy, the Yarmouth ferry still isn't that bad a deal.

The Progressive Conservative Party said, well, it's not the ferry we're against, it's the deal. But the deal is the ferry. There was one service available for this province to connect Yarmouth to Portland. There was one boat. And there was one best choice for a company - the same company that provides a ferry service in Digby and that connects Nova Scotia to P.E.I.

There has never been a problem identified by any Opposition members related to any of those ferries, but because this has become such a politicized issue, it has become a problem for the Progressive Conservative Party. They have said that the deal's bad because of all this money going into the Portland terminal. As we made clear last week in Question Period, the money is not going in to upgrade the actual terminal in Portland for citizens of Portland. It is going in to put an on ramp that can accommodate the ferry. How is that unreasonable? How is that unreasonable?

The point being in all of this, to bring this conversation back to Bill No. 152, is that I do not believe that the Progressive Conservatives actually have economic rationale and policy rationale to oppose the ferry or to suggest it is a bad deal. It is consistent with the deal that they had when they were in government; it is consistent with the deal that they fought to keep when they were in Opposition, including the confidentiality clause around the management fee, which is also consistent with every other contract that this government and any government has signed with business to protect their competitive advantage. Despite the consistency with the cost of the ferry in Yarmouth with every other ferry service in this province, it being cheaper than a lot of them, that Party will now still say it is a bad deal.

[Page 9517]

Let us be honest, it is not because there is a policy rationale; it is not because there is an economic rationale; it is a part of a political strategy that involves swinging at everything, swinging at everything. Whether it is a balanced budget, even though that is what they wanted; whether it is a ferry that they wanted returned; whether it is a bill designed to allow email applications for municipal units to get critical loans, it does not matter; the political strategy of the Progressive Conservatives is just to swing, and what they think the payoff will be is that they will get in the headlines.

I know the Leader of the Official Opposition fancies himself to be a visionary Leader, a Leader of the people, but I would argue that if one is always chasing, one is never leading. If all one has is exaggerated warning, hyperbolic rhetoric, well we all remember that famous Aesop Fable of the boy and the wolves, and we know what happened to the people when they trust the boy. With that, I move to close debate on Bill No. 152. Namaste. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 152.

There has been a call for a recorded vote. We will ring the bells until the Whips are satisfied.

[5:27 p.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Are the Whips satisfied?

We'll now proceed with the recorded vote on Bill No. 152. I'd like to remind all members to stand tall when your name is called and state a simple yea or nay, and for the rest of the members to remain absolutely silent until the vote is completed.

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[5:31 p.m.]

YEAS	NAYS
Mr. Churchill
Ms. Regan

[Page 9518]

Mr. Samson
Ms. Whalen
Mr. Glavine
Mr. Delorey
Mr. MacLellan
Mr. Horne
Mr. Stroink
Ms. Miller
Mr. Hines
Ms. Diab
Mr. Ince
Mr. Kousoulis
Mr. Furey
Mr. Farrell
Ms. Arab
Mr. Maguire
Mr. Porter
Mr. Jessome
Ms. Lohnes-Croft
Mr. Irving
Mr. Gough
Ms. Treen
Mr. Wilton
Mr. Rankin
Mr. Dunn
Mr. d'Entremont
Mr. David Wilson
Ms. Mancini
Ms. Zann
Mr. Belliveau
Mr. Orrell
Mr. MacMaster
Mr. Mombourquette
Mr. Harrison
Mr. Lohr

THE CLERK « » : For, 37. Against, 0.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I inform the House that that concludes the government's business for today, after such lively debate. But we will be back at it tomorrow and, it being Opposition Day, I would invite the New Democratic Party House Leader to give us the hours and the business for tomorrow.

[Page 9519]

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

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, the House will meet tomorrow, Wednesday, May 18^th, between 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. We will be calling Private Members' Public Bills for Second Reading: Bill No. 167, the Fair Drug Pricing Act, and Bill No. 182, the Labour Standards Code.

I now move that we rise to sit again tomorrow from 1:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for the House to rise and to sit again tomorrow, Wednesday, May 18^th, at 1:00 p.m. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

The House now stands adjourned until Wednesday, May 18^th, at 1:00 p.m.

[The House rose at 5:36 p.m.]

NOTICE OF QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN ANSWERS

[Page 9520]

Given on May 12, 2016

(Pursuant to Rule 30)

QUESTION NO. 12

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

Is there currently a plan to evaluate emergency room protocols for people who have committed suicide attempts following previous attempts over the years?

QUESTION NO. 13

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

Of the approximately $271 million allotted for mental health services, will there be any new services available to deal with the growing challenges faced in the emergency rooms?

QUESTION NO. 14

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

How do the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK plan on working together to fulfill the needs of mental health patients and ensure that there are no gaps in mental health care?

QUESTION NO. 15

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

What was the purpose or benefit to transferring $5.4 million of the mental health care budget to the Nova Scotia Health Authority?

QUESTION NO. 16

[Page 9521]

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

What is the current status of implementation for Kronos scheduling?

QUESTION NO. 17

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

(1) How much has the province spent on Kronos scheduling software?

(2) Is the Kronos project over budget?

(3) How much money is budgeted for the Kronos project in the next fiscal year?

QUESTION NO. 18

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

What is the staff level of satisfaction with the Kronos system?

QUESTION NO. 19

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

Are manual systems such as spreadsheets and external data bases used to make up for the shortfalls of the Kronos system?

QUESTION NO. 20

[Page 9522]

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

How many extra staff are required to operate the Kronos system because of deficiencies and cumbersome data entry procedures?

QUESTION NO. 21

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

(1) Is Kronos going to be put in place across the province or will it be replaced by other systems?

(2) Has Kronos been successfully integrated with SAP?

QUESTION NO. 22

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

Is the province looking at replacing Kronos with other software systems, and if so are these options as much as or more costly than Kronos software?

QUESTION NO. 23

By: Mr. Andrew Younger « » (Dartmouth East)

To: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Health & Wellness)

Would the province be willing to fund a pilot project in Antigonish or elsewhere using the new version of the Computerease scheduling software.

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 9523]

RESOLUTION NO. 3951

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas the Frotten family purchased a local pub on Tatamagouche's Main Street, offered entertainment, drinks, and food, and expanded upstairs to open the Tipperary Bakery and Café, which celebrated its One-Year Anniversary in February; and

Whereas the Tipperary Bakery and Café is hosting a grand re-opening since a coffee roaster will be installed into the space directly adjacent to the café where beans will be roasted on site and will be visible from outside through a window; an expresso bar will feature specialty coffees, and the locally produced handmade Appleton Chocolates will also be available; and

Whereas the Tipperary Bakery and Café will be offering a lunch menu of sandwiches and soup, made fresh every day using local products as much as possible, freshly baked bread and many other items, including their popular butter tarts, freshly roasted coffee or a specialty coffee and offerings from the Tatamagouche Brewing Company on tap;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Frotten family for their entrepreneurial skills, their hard work and dedication to their business, and the excellent service and products that the Tipperary Bakery and Café offers to its patrons and the community of Tatamagouche.

RESOLUTION NO. 3952

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas two teachers, Tammy Chitty and Steve Fultz, were instrumental in forming the World Changers, a group of close to 40 students at Redcliff Middle School in Valley, Colchester North, in 2015; and

Whereas the group decided to support one local charity, Truro Homeless Outreach Society, and have participated in the Coldest Night of the Year walk, helped out at the local food bank on most Fridays, sold hot chocolate and freezies, and each Halloween hosted a haunted maze to generate funds; and

[Page 9524]

Whereas the group also supports a global cause, having raised $4,000 last year for Free the Children and increasing that to $4,700 this year;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate this passionate group of students who work hard to help local charities and support projects in different countries, while enjoying the camaraderie of working together on a common cause, developing strong leadership skills, and leaving a positive footprint on the world.

RESOLUTION NO. 3953

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas 158 Canadian solders lost their lives during the war in Afghanistan and April 18^th marked 14 years since the first four deaths in the conflict; and

Whereas students from West Colchester Consolidated School in Bass River, Colchester North, participated in a special ceremony at the Veterans' Memorial Park by laying wreaths made by students at LeMarchant-St. Thomas Elementary School in Halifax, in memory of the 13 Nova Scotia soldiers who died in that conflict; and

Whereas Gregg Ellison, a Grade 12 student at Citadel High School in Halifax, organized the ceremony at the Veterans' Memorial Park to honour and remember these soldiers whose names are engraved on a granite monument and 13 red maples are planted there to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank the young citizens for ensuring these soldiers are not forgotten and thank the parents for three of the soldiers, Pte. Nathan Smith from Tatamagouche, W.O. Frank Mellish from Truro, and Cpl. Christopher Reid from Truro, for the supreme sacrifice that their children made.

RESOLUTION NO. 3954

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Taylor Smith, a graduating student at North Colchester High School in Tatamagouche, is an excellent academic student, having earned honours with distinction each year since Grade 7; and

[Page 9525]

Whereas Taylor excels at athletics, playing on the school basketball, soccer, and hockey teams, competing in track and field, golfing, and playing softball; and

Whereas the diversity of Taylor's skills and interest is also shown by his participation in the math league, Reach for the Top, boys' leadership, and student council;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Taylor Smith for his many contributions to North Colchester High School, congratulate him for being such a well-rounded student, and for being named Student of the Month for April 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 3955

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Taylor Cook, a Grade 12 student at North Colchester High School in Tatamagouche, is known for her infectious personality and her love of sports; and

Whereas Taylor is an exceptional athlete who has always been involved in team sports like hockey, soccer, and softball, but also enjoys individual sports like track and field and skiing; and

Whereas Taylor not only likes to compete and push herself to acquire and improve on the many skills that make her a better player, she is also a team leader who is an enthusiastic supporter of her teammates;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Taylor for her athletic abilities, for the many contributions she has made to the sports teams at North Colchester High School, and for being named Student of the Month for April 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 3956

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas in the 2015 season, the Hants North Rural High senior boys basketball team won six tournaments and brought home banners for both the Nova Scotia School Athletic Federation (NSSAF) Division III Regional and Provincial Championships; and

[Page 9526]

Whereas the Hants North Rural High Flames finished their season with a record of 31 wins and 3 losses; and

Whereas the East Hants Sports Heritage Society held their second annual sports awards on Saturday, May 7, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Hants North Rural High Flames on being the winner of the 18 and Under Team of the Year Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 3957

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas in 2015 Kerri Smit was a member of the Canadian National Beach Volleyball team, and while on the North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA) professional tour, Kerri and her partner, Tori Cowley, placed first at the Coburg OVB tournament, sixth overall at Cuba NORCECA, and fifth overall at St. Lucia NORCECA; and

Whereas in 2015 Kerri and her partner were also National and World Champions, won the Canadian Women's Beach Volleyball Championships, and took top honours at the World Leisure Games in Qingdao, China; and

Whereas the East Hants Sports Heritage Society held their second annual Sports Awards on Saturday, May 7, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kerri on winning the 19 and Older Female Athlete of the Year Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 3958

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas this season Ally MacDonell played her second season with King-Edge Hill in the North American Prep Hockey League; played on the Nova Scotia Canada Games Women's Hockey Team, which placed 7^th overall; and played with the prestigious East Coast Selects 99 team at the Beantown Women's Classic, finishing fourth out of 72 teams from across North America; and

[Page 9527]

Whereas in Fall 2015 Ally was chosen to play with Team Nova Scotia U-18 and helped them win the gold medal at the Atlantic Challenge Cup; and

Whereas the East Hants Sports Heritage Society held their second annual Sports Awards on Saturday, May 7, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ally MacDonell on being co-winner of the 18 and Under Female Athlete of the Year.

RESOLUTION NO. 3959

By: Hon. Kelly Regan « » (Labour and Advanced Education)

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

Whereas the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Reception annually recognizes the outstanding contributions of the many volunteers who work to make Bedford a terrific place in which to live; and

Whereas Rose Randall-Meagher has been volunteering at Basinview Community School for the past 10 years, during which time she has been a Safe Arrival Coordinator and a library volunteer and has volunteered in the school office and during special events; and

Whereas Rose has been honoured by the Halifax Regional School Board, receiving its Golden Apple Award for her extensive volunteer efforts, which continue even though her son no longer attends the school;

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Rose Randall-Meagher on being honoured at the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Reception for her extensive contributions supporting the students and teachers of Basinview Community School and indeed to life in Bedford and thank her for making such a significant difference in the lives of her fellow citizens.

RESOLUTION NO. 3960

[Page 9528]

By: Hon. Kelly Regan « » (Labour and Advanced Education)

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

Whereas the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Reception annually recognizes the outstanding contributions of the many volunteers who work to make Bedford a terrific place in which to live; and

Whereas Dianne Nickerson is a volunteer extraordinaire at All Saints Church in Bedford, where she is involved in every aspect of the church: serving as a member of the Pastoral Care Team; organizing fundraising dinners, special services, Sunday School, and events like Undie Sunday (to gather new underwear, t-shirts, and socks for the clients at Metro Turning Point Shelter) and Vacation Bible School; serving on Parish Council; and editing the church's newsletter and its Facebook; and

Whereas Dianne also somehow finds time to volunteer at her grandchildren's school, volunteering on the Basinview Rocks music CD project, as well as many other causes in our community, including Scott Manor House, Bedford Days, the Chickenburger Fundraiser for the IWK, as well as literacy, veterans, sports, the Lions, and many other concerns;

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Dianne Nickerson on being honoured at the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Reception for her extensive contributions to All Saints Church and indeed to life in Bedford and thank her for making such a significant difference in the lives of her fellow citizens.

RESOLUTION NO. 3961

By: Hon. Kelly Regan « » (Labour and Advanced Education)

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

Whereas the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Reception annually recognizes the outstanding contributions of the many volunteers who work to make Bedford a terrific place in which to live; and

Whereas Cathy Holman has been a member of the Bedford Horticultural Society for the past 16 years, during which time she has served on the program committee, the social committee, and the calling committee; and

Whereas Cathy is well-known for her kindness and compassion toward others, assisting at annual district meetings and fundraising, and is also a valued member of the Nova Scotia Daylily Society, the Mayflower Garden Club, and the Flower Arranging Club;

[Page 9529]

Therefore be it resolved the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Cathy Holman on being honoured at the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Reception for her extensive contributions to the floral life of Bedford and thank her for helping so many organizations blossom under her care.

RESOLUTION NO. 3962

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Tamara Vivian successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tamara on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3963

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

[Page 9530]

Whereas Caryn Addington successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Caryn on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3964

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Anna Marrison successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Anna on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3965

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

[Page 9531]

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Holly Norman successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Holly on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3966

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Tracey Williams successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tracey on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3967

[Page 9532]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Sharon Fyfe successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sharon on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3968

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Sharon Prest successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sharon on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 9533]

RESOLUTION NO. 3969

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Robin Wambolt successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Robin on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3970

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Linda Forrest successfully completed this course in March 2016;

[Page 9534]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Linda on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3971

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from the government rules and regulations; (e) comply and prosper! Breakthrough the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Patty Smith successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Patty on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3972

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Lane George from Belnan plays goalie for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lane George on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

[Page 9535]

RESOLUTION NO. 3973

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Scott Isenor from Enfield plays defence for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Scott Isenor on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3974

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Andy Peters from Lantz is the team manager for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Andy Peters for volunteering countless hours of his time and skills to manage this talented group of 11 to 12-year olds.

RESOLUTION NO. 3975

[Page 9536]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Garret MacLean from Enfield plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Garret MacLean on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3976

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Brody Fraser from Nine Mile River plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brody Fraser on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3977

[Page 9537]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Braden Bannister from Lantz plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Braden Bannister on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3978

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Daniel Mitchelmore from Lantz plays goalie for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Daniel Mitchelmore on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3979

[Page 9538]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Evan Tilley from Middle Musquodoboit plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Evan Tilley on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3980

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Ethan Vallis from Lantz plays defence for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ethan Vallis on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3981

[Page 9539]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Duncan Ramsay from Belnan plays defence for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Duncan Ramsay on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3982

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Riley Kidney from Enfield plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Riley Kidney on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3983

[Page 9540]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Riley MacKinnon from Lantz plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Riley MacKinnon on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3984

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Justin Campbell from Noel is an assistant coach for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Justin Campbell for volunteering countless hours of his time and skills to coach this talented group of 11 to 12-year-olds.

RESOLUTION NO. 3985

[Page 9541]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Joey Merriam from Milford plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Joey Merriam on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3986

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Nathan Peters from Lantz plays defence for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Nathan Peters on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Atlantics championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 3987

[Page 9542]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Provincial Pee Wee AAA Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Atlantics held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Jeff Fraser from Upper Nine Mile River is the coach for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Jeff Fraser for volunteering countless hours of his time and skills to coach this talented group of 11 to 12-year-olds.

RESOLUTION NO. 3988

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Peewee AAA Provincial Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Pee Wee AAA Atlantic Championships held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Logan Forward from Enfield plays forward for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Logan Forward on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Pee Wee AAA Atlantic Championships.

RESOLUTION NO. 3989

[Page 9543]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Peewee AAA Provincial Championship was held at the East Hants Sportsplex from March 24 to March 27, 2016; and

Whereas the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins won this championship and went on to win silver at the Pee Wee AAA Atlantic Championships held in Charlottetown; and

Whereas Mike Sack from Indian Brook plays defense for the Hants East Pee Wee AAA Penguins;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mike Sack on having the skills and the amazing opportunity to represent Nova Scotia in the Pee Wee AAA Atlantic Championships.

RESOLUTION NO. 3990

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Amy Wardrope successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Amy on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3991

[Page 9544]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Anna Cottreau successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Anna on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3992

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Bill Hildreth successfully completed this course in March, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bill on receiving his certificate for this course and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3993

[Page 9545]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Darlene MacNeil Cole successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Darlene on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3994

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Gerrard Garden, president, Corridor Community Options Society, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Gerrard on receiving his certificate for this course and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3995

[Page 9546]

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Cathy MacDonald, executive director, East Hants Family Resource Centre, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Cathy on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3996

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Jan Underhill, manager, FutureWorx, Elmsdale, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jan on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 9547]

RESOLUTION NO. 3997

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Sonja Aitkens successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sonja on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 3998

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills-Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Scott MacAskill, president/consultant, Paragon Safety Ltd., successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Scott on receiving his certificate for this course and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 9548]

RESOLUTION NO. 3999

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Shauna Pratt successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Shauna on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4000

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Tracey Williams successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tracey on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 9549]

RESOLUTION NO. 4001

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Patty Smith successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Patty on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4002

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Julia Bolduc, owner/chef of Julia's Kitchen, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Julia on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 9550]

RESOLUTION NO. 4003

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Nancy McTiernan, co-owner of The Sweet Spot Chocolate Shop, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Nancy on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4004

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Jill Borgy, owner of Jill's Jewelry Box Plus, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

[Page 9551]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jill on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4005

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided nine business people in East Hants with the Essential Business Skills - Building Stronger Business Relationships; and

Whereas this course covers connecting with employees and customers from different generations, dealing with difficult people, building an engaged team, adapting to various communication styles, nonverbal communication, developing effective negotiation skills, and resolving conflict; and

Whereas Linda Wood, lawyer at Burchell MacDougall, Elmsdale, successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Linda on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4006

By: Hon. Randy Delorey « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas Clary Stubbert is a native of Prince Edward Island and a long-time resident of the Antigonish area; and

Whereas Clary has quietly led by example, never letting his physical disability get in the way of his personal, professional, and athletic accomplishments; and

Whereas Clary is the recipient of the 2016 James McGregor Stewart Award recognizing Nova Scotians living with a disability for their leadership, personal accomplishments, or effective advocacy;

[Page 9552]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly join me in congratulating Clary Stubbert on receiving the James McGregor Stewart Award for his leadership in athletics and for being a role model for Nova Scotians living with physical disabilities.

RESOLUTION NO. 4007

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas it was hugs and smiles all around when Osamaha, 16; Rowaid, 11; mom, Bushra; and dad, Basim Al Manani stepped off the plane in Halifax on January 25^th, 2016, after an exhausting flight from the Middle East; and

Whereas it was the moment the family and the Middleton and Area Refugee Sponsorship Committee had been waiting and preparing for; and

Whereas many community volunteers worked tirelessly to secure a home for the family, to acquire winter clothing, and to make this family feel welcomed;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in proudly welcoming the Al Manani family to Middleton and wish them all the best as they settle into their new community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4008

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas Lequille resident James Stevenson taught himself to play guitar at the age of 13 and has been sharing his love of music with audiences for over 60 years; and

Whereas Mr. Stevenson was recently recognized at the 18^th Annual African Nova Scotian Music Awards for "having performed and left a musical legacy in the community and Nova Scotia with a career of no less than 10 years"; and

Whereas a quiet man by nature, James lets his fingers do the talking as he expresses his emotions through the strings on his guitar;

[Page 9553]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. James Stevenson on his recent ANSMA award and wish him many more years of making music.

RESOLUTION NO. 4009

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas Calista Hills, through her hard work and dedication to Girl Guides of Canada in Middleton for the past seven years, has earned the Chief Commissioner's Gold Award; and

Whereas this award is the ultimate award a youth member can earn within the Guiding Movement; and

Whereas Calista has been a willing and cheerful participant in all aspects of her school and community service endeavours;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Calista on her achievement and wish her all the best in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 4010

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas Hanna Stoddart has been awarded the Canada Cord through the Girl Guides of Canada of Middleton, in recognition of her dedication and hard work in the organization over the past 10 years; and

Whereas Hanna rose up through the ranks first as a Spark, then as a Brownie, a Girl Guide, and finally as a Pathfinder; and

Whereas this young lady has been outstanding as an active participant over the years, participating in a variety of community services and fundraising projects;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Hannah on being awarded the Girl Guides of Canada's highest honour, the Canada Cord, and wish her every success in the future.

[Page 9554]

RESOLUTION NO. 4011

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas Danielle Prout has been a member of the Girl Guides of Canada in Middleton for seven years, first as a Brownie, then as a Guide, and finally as a Pathfinder; and

Whereas through her involvement in numerous community service projects and leadership endeavours, Danielle was deemed worthy of the Canada Cord, the highest award possible in the Guiding Movement; and

Whereas Danielle has been a dedicated and positive asset to her group and community;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Danielle and wish her success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 4012

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas on Saturday, May 14, 2016, Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts from 44^th Halifax Scouts Group met at the new Lakeview Trail at Long Lake, in Armdale, to plant trees; and

Whereas this group of scouters loved exploring the beautiful nature along the Lakeview Trail and enjoyed being a part of forest rejuvenation efforts; and

Whereas leaders Don Allen, Dan Penny, Peter Koskolas, and Group Commissioner Jim MacLean helped to organize this great scouting initiative;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate this dedicated group of scouters, their leaders, and sponsor, Calvin Presbyterian Church, and wish them a happy and safe summer.

RESOLUTION NO. 4013

[Page 9555]

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Charlie Ramia is an active youth who resides in Halifax Armdale and attends St. Agnes Junior High School; and

Whereas Charlie loves soccer and, with the support of his parents, plays on the St. Agnes parish junior high team; and

Whereas his amazing soccer skills helped his team to win gold at this year's 8^th Annual Mancini Cup, beating 11 different church teams from throughout Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate Charlie Ramia and wish him a great school year and an enjoyable summer.

RESOLUTION NO. 4014

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 Christine MacKeigan, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. MacKeigan received the Volunteer Award through the Sackville Seniors Advisory Council for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. MacKeigan and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. MacKeigan on her Volunteer Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4015

[Page 9556]

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 Donald Hartlen, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mr. Hartlen received the Volunteer of the Year Award for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mr. Hartlen and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Hartlen on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4016

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 Margaret Keefe, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Keefe received the Volunteer Award through the Sackville Lioness Club for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Keefe and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Keefe on her Volunteer Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4017

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 Kelly Westheuser, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

[Page 9557]

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Westheuser received the Volunteer Award through the Sackville Minor Hockey Association for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Westheuser and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Westheuser on her Volunteer Award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4018

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 Wendy Marshall, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Marshall received the Volunteer Award through the Sackville Legion Seniors Recreation Club for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Marshall and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Marshall on her Volunteer Award

RESOLUTION NO. 4019

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 Regan Oliver, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Oliver received the volunteer award through the Wallace Lucas Community Centre for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Oliver and thank him for his continued service in his community;

[Page 9558]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Oliver on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4020

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 Kathy Fougere, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mrs. Fougere received the volunteer award through the Woodbine and Area Seniors Group Association for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mrs. Fougere and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Fougere on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4021

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 David Waugh, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Waugh received the volunteer award through the Sackville Rivers Association for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Waugh and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Waugh on his volunteer award.

[Page 9559]

RESOLUTION NO. 4022

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 Greg Fenwick, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Fenwick received the volunteer award through the Lake District Recreation Association for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Fenwick and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Fenwick on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4023

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 Harvey T. Hannam, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Hannam received the volunteer award through the Sackville/Beaver Bank 50-Plus Club for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Hannam and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Hannam on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4024

[Page 9560]

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 Doyle White, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. White received the volunteer award through the RCL Calais Branch 162 for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. White and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. White on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4025

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 Perry Oliver, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mr. Oliver received the volunteer award through the Sackville Lions Club for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mr. Oliver and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Oliver on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4026

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 Janice Butler, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

[Page 9561]

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Butler received the volunteer award through the Sackville Business Association for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Butler and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Butler on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4027

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 Patrick R. Bowers, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mr. Bowers received the volunteer award through the Kinsmen Club of Sackville for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mr. Bowers and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Bower on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4028

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 Harry Vanderhoek, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mr. Vanderhoek received the volunteer award through the Lake District Recreation Association for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mr. Vanderhoek and thank him for his continued service in his community;

[Page 9562]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Vanderhoek on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4029

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 Kelly Gillingham, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Gillingham received the volunteer award through the Kinette Club of Sackville for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Gillingham and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate

Mrs. Gillingham on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4030

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 Sally Holden, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Holden received the volunteer award through the Rotary Club of Sackville and Area for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Holden and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Holden on her volunteer award.

[Page 9563]

RESOLUTION NO. 4031

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 Agnes Glawson, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Glawson received the volunteer award through the RCL Calais Branch 162 Ladies Auxiliary for her work and dedication to her community, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Glawson and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Glawson on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4032

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 Inez Johnson, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mrs. Johnson received the volunteer award for her work and dedication to her community through the Sackville-Bedford Meals on Wheels, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mrs. Johnson and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Johnson on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4033

[Page 9564]

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 Wayne Johnson, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association; and

Whereas Mr. Johnson received the Volunteer Award for his work and dedication to his community through the Sackville-Bedford Meals on Wheels, and I would like to extend congratulations to Mr. Johnson and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Johnson on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4034

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 Linda Langille, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mrs. Langille received the volunteer award through the Girl Guides of Canada for her work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mrs. Langille and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Langille on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4035

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 Keith O'Brien, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

[Page 9565]

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. O'Brien received the volunteer award through the Ivy Meadows Continuing Care Centre for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. O'Brien and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. O'Brien on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4036

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 Ted Caulier, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Caulier received the volunteer award through the Cobequid Community Health Centre Foundation for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Caulier and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Caulier on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4037

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 Jim Robson, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Robson received the volunteer award through the Cobequid Radio Society for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Robson and thank him for his continued service in his community;

[Page 9566]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Robson on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4038

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 Monique Guilderson, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mrs. Guilderson received the volunteer award through the Friends of First Lake for her work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mrs. Guilderson and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Guilderson on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4039

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 Stan Rhodenizer, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Rhodenizer received the volunteer award through the Fultz Corner Restoration Society for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Rhodenizer and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Rhodenizer on his volunteer award.

[Page 9567]

RESOLUTION NO. 4040

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 Linda Acker, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mrs. Acker received the volunteer award through the Acadia Recreation Club for her work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mrs. Acker and thank her for her continued service in her community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Acker on her volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4041

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 Don Acker, along with 28 other individuals, was a recipient at this past 37^th Annual LDRA Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 20, 2016; and

Whereas this event was sponsored by the Lake District Recreation Association;

Whereas Mr. Acker received the volunteer award through the Acadia Recreation Club for his work and dedication to his community, and I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Acker and thank him for his continued service in his community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Acker on his volunteer award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4042

[Page 9568]

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 the Lake District Recreation Association held its 37^th Annual Volunteer Recognition Evening on Wednesday April 20, 2016; and

Whereas these volunteers continue to commit their time and effort to people in their communities who would otherwise be unable to benefit from the programs; and

Whereas there were 26 recipients that were on hand to have their hard work recognized;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the Lake District Recreation Association for taking the time to celebrate those who contribute to their communities.

RESOLUTION NO. 4043

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 Jillian Langille achieved a silver overall ranking in the high performance novice category at the recent Elite Canada gymnastics championship held in Halifax; and

Whereas in March she attended a national's weeklong training camp in Montreal and went on to tie for first overall at the international Gimnix; and

Whereas being only 12 and in grade 7 this is her second national championship;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ms. Langille and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4044

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 Mrs. Kathleen Fougere has been volunteering her time to serve those seniors in need in her community through her work at the Brown Hall with the Woodbine & Area Seniors Group through their Tuesday lunches; and

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Whereas due to her efforts she has been recognized by my office and also nominated for the Order of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Mrs. Fougere has been selected through to the next phase of the Order of Nova Scotia where only five applicants will be chosen out of 100 and I recognize the needs of the seniors in Sackville-Beaver Bank and am proud of Ms. Fougere for taking the initiative in doing what she feels her fellow neighbours need;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Mrs. Fougere and congratulate her on her continued dedication to the residents of Beaver Bank.

RESOLUTION NO. 4045

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. Garry R. Miller and Mrs. Hilda Miller residing at 217 Joan Drive in Beaver Bank will celebrate their 50^th Anniversary on July 23, 2016; and

Whereas I would like to congratulate them on many more happy years to come celebrated with family and friends;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Garry R. Miller on their momentous occasion.

RESOLUTION NO. 4046

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. Francis S. Marshall and Mrs. Rosalind M. Marshall residing at 252 Joan Drive in Middle Sackville will celebrate their 50^th Anniversary on June 18, 2016; and

Whereas I would like to congratulate them on many more happy years to come celebrated with family and friends;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Francis S. Marshall on their momentous occasion.

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RESOLUTION NO. 4047

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. Victor Hughes and Mrs. Heather Hughes, residing at 48 MacIntosh Road in Middle Sackville, celebrated their 50^th Anniversary on January 14, 2016; and

Whereas I would like to congratulate them on many more happy years to come, celebrated with family and friends; and

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Victor Hughes on their momentous occasion.

RESOLUTION NO. 4048

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 Chief Petty Officer Second Class Mr. Jean-Pierre D. Martinello and Mrs. Coleen Martinello, residing at 252 Joan Drive in Middle Sackville, will celebrate their 50^th Anniversary on June 29, 2016; and

Whereas I would like to congratulate them on many more happy years to come, celebrated with family and friends; and

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Chief Petty Officer Second Class Jean-Pierre D. Martinello on their momentous occasion.

RESOLUTION NO. 4049

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Madeleine Killacky of Wolfville achieved the Gold level of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in 2015; and

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Whereas she has demonstrated an ongoing and consistent commitment in service, skill and physical recreation; and

Whereas Mr. Killacky has successfully challenged herself to grow in self-reliance, perseverance and responsibility;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize her significant achievement and thank her for her commitment to growth as an active and responsible citizen of our province.

RESOLUTION NO. 4050

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Eleanor Gallant of Hants Border achieved the Gold level of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in 2015; and

Whereas she has demonstrated an ongoing and consistent commitment in service, skill and physical recreation; and

Whereas Ms. Gallant has successfully challenged herself to grow in self-reliance, perseverance and responsibility;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize her significant achievement and thank her for her commitment to growth as an active and responsible citizen of our province.

RESOLUTION NO. 4051

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas John Reid of North Alton achieved the Silver level of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in 2015; and

Whereas he has demonstrated an ongoing and consistent commitment to service, skill, and physical recreation; and

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Whereas Mr. Reid has successfully challenged himself to grow in self-reliance, perseverance, and responsibility;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize his significant achievement and thank him for his commitment to growth as an active and responsible citizen of our province.

RESOLUTION NO. 4052

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Emma Belliveau of Wolfville achieved the Silver level of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in 2015; and

Whereas she has demonstrated an ongoing and consistent commitment to service, skill, and physical recreation; and

Whereas Ms. Belliveau has successfully challenged herself to grow in self-reliance, perseverance, and responsibility;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize her significant achievement and thank her for her commitment to growth as an active and responsible citizen of our province.

RESOLUTION NO. 4053

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Anna Killacky of Wolfville achieved the Silver level of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in 2015; and

Whereas she has demonstrated an ongoing and consistent commitment to service, skill, and physical recreation; and

Whereas Ms. Killacky has successfully challenged herself to grow in self-reliance, perseverance, and responsibility;

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Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize her significant achievement and thank her for her commitment to growth as an active and responsible citizen of our province.

RESOLUTION NO. 4054

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Hannah Ehler of Wolfville achieved the Bronze level of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in 2015; and

Whereas she has demonstrated an ongoing and consistent commitment to service, skill, and physical recreation; and

Whereas Ms. Ehler has successfully challenged herself to grow in self-reliance, perseverance, and responsibility;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly recognize her significant achievement and thank her for her commitment to growth as an active and responsible citizen of our province.