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HALIFAX, TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 2018

Sixty-third General Assembly

First Session

10:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

 

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Mr. Chuck Porter, Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

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

HON. TONY INCE « » : Mr. Speaker, before I read my statement I'd like to take a moment to recognize some of the public servants who are with us today in the gallery. Opposite from me there is Helen Desmond-Morris - if you could stand please - Litzie Brooks, Jamus Dorey, Jude Gerrard, Aja Joshi, and Bonnie Russell. I'd like the House to recognize these employees for their great work in the Public Service. (Applause)

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

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HON. TONY INCE « » : Mr. Speaker, I am proud to share that on Friday the Nova Scotia Public Service received recognition as one of Canada's best diversity employers for 2018. This honour is thanks to our employees who are determined to make our workplace more diverse and inclusive, and who are rolling our programs under our four-year strategy on diversity and inclusion like creating diverse hiring panels, establishing designated positions, designing programs to support career advancements, developing a census to collect more detailed demographics, strengthening the employee networks, and so much more.

Mr. Speaker, we celebrate our progress, but we know there is still a lot more work to do. We need to have more representation from equity groups, knowing that it's about more than just looking different, it's about genuine inclusion. We need to keep working to ensure employees feel safe and valued when they come to work so that they feel comfortable contributing their best ideas.

Mr. Speaker, increasing diversity, fostering inclusion, and building cultural competence is hard work and it takes time, but we are committed and we have a lot of employees who are ready to keep us moving in the right direction because diversity and inclusion is about all of us.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the individuals, committees, networks, agencies, and departments across government for their dedication to this important priority. Together we will continue to build a diverse and inclusive workforce. (Applause)

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

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by thanking the minister for providing a copy of his statement earlier.

We are lucky in Nova Scotia to have a diverse society. We have people from different backgrounds, different cultures, different perspectives, and different points of view contributing to our province makes Nova Scotia stronger.

The same can be said of the provincial workforce. After all, diversity has played an important role in our provinces and in Canada's history. It is more than race and ethnicity. It includes language, gender, religious affiliations, sexual orientation, abilities, and economic status. We know that Canadian employers have taken strides to ensure that their corporations move toward reflecting the population of Canada. This is an ideal that the Government of Nova Scotia should also hold, so this designation is definitely a step in the right direction.

Mr. Speaker, I add my voice to the minister's in thanking the many provincial employees who are helping to transform the workforce, making it more diverse and more inclusive. Change is not always easy, but sometimes it is necessary, and in this case, it is the right thing to do.

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I agree that, although we have come a long way, we still have more to do. I urge the minister to ensure that the progress the province has made in this area continues. Like the minister, I would like to thank all the individuals, committees, networks, agencies, and departments across government for their dedication to this important priority. Thank you.

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

MS. TAMMY MARTIN « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the minister for providing his notes earlier.

I want to start by recognizing and congratulating all the hard-working people in the civil service for taking leadership for equity in the workplace. Nova Scotia, receiving this recognition, thanks you.

I'm concerned, though, at the Liberal Government using this recognition to try to give itself a pat on the back. Not only is there much more that could be done, which can particularly be seen regarding the representation of Mi'kmaq people and people with disabilities in the Public Service, but in many cases, the Liberal Government's record is setting back the interest of marginalized people in Nova Scotia. The Premier expends a lot of words in this House about his commitment to diversity, but I think those words are cold comfort to many Nova Scotians.

As protestors outside this House this week and presentations in Law Amendments Committee yesterday have pointed out, this government has a record of setting women back. In 2014, Bill No. 30 attacked home support workers, almost 95 per cent of whom are women; Bill No. 37 attacked the community and health workers, 84 per cent of whom are women; and Bill No. 1 attacked nurses, over 96 per cent of whom are women.

In 2016, Bill No. 148 undermined the lowest-paid public servants in this province, 98 per cent of whom are women. In 2017, Bill No. 75 took away the rights of teachers, 69 per cent of whom are women, and of course this week, Bill No. 72 is removing elected school board members, 55 per cent of whom are women. The president of Equal Voice called it heartbreaking yesterday.

This is also the government that cut funding to specialized employment programs for African Nova Scotians, women, and people with disabilities. Organizations like Watershed Association Development Enterprise Limited were important parts of their communities, and now they're gone, along with special knowledge and services they provided. This government needs to restore the funding of organizations where African Nova Scotians are in charge of African Nova Scotians.

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It is also deeply concerning to see some of the trends in government's most recent survey of the Public Service. The number of government staff saying they are satisfied with their department has dropped by six points since 2015, and now fewer than half say they are satisfied. Overall, satisfaction with working for this government has also dropped by six points since 2015. Almost one-third do not say they are treated respectfully at work; 48 per cent do not think their departments implement meaningful activities and practices to support a diverse workplace; 15 per cent have experienced discrimination or harassment at work in the last year; and 37 per cent do not feel they have access to the resources and supports they need to address disrespectful behaviour in the workplace. More staff feel that they experienced an unreasonable amount of stress and workload than they did two years ago, bringing that number to almost half of the Public Service.

I want to end by echoing so many of the comments that Nova Scotians brought to this House yesterday and say that if this government wants to pat itself on the back, then it should put its money where its mouth is to really support marginalized Nova Scotians.

[10:15 a.m.]

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 929

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

Whereas arthritis is not just a disease that affects elderly, it affects people of all ages; and

Whereas juvenile arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among children and adolescents in this country, affecting 3 in every 1,000 Canadian children; and

Whereas March is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of the disease and show support for those living with it and their families;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join in showing support and promoting education about the impact of this disease on patients' lives.

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

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

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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 Communities, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 930

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes, past and present; and

Whereas in 2017, the Nova Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Cole Harbour native and NHL superstar Sidney Crosby was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the greatest Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly acknowledge Sidney Crosby for being recognized as the No. 1 Nova Scotian athlete of all time by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 931

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

Whereas one in ten Canadians have kidney disease; and

Whereas March is Kidney Health Month, a time to promote awareness of kidney health, risk factors, and kidney disease; and

Whereas organizations like the Kidney Foundation of Canada aim to promote education and research around kidney health, raise awareness about the prevention of kidney disease, and provide support for people living with the burden of kidney disease;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly show their support for raising awareness about the importance of good kidney health.

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 Acadian Affairs.

RESOLUTION NO. 932

HON. LENA DIAB « » : Monsieur le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que la Semaine de l'éducation en français, qui a lieu du 5 au 9 mars, célèbre cette année sa 12^e édition; et

Attendu que la langue française est cruciale à la préservation et au développement des communautéacadiennes et francophones dans la Nouvelle-Écosse, de leur culture et de leur patrimoine; et

Attendu que cet événement promeut les différentes opportunités d'apprentissage offerts à la communautéacadienne et francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse et sensibilise la communautéanglophone de notre province aux bienfaits d'une éducation en français;

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Par conséquent, il est résolu que les députés de l'Assemblée législative se joignent à moi pour saluer la douzième édition de la Semaine de l'éducation en français et pour inviter tous les Néo-Écossais, acadiens, francophones, et francophiles à participer aux activités prévues dans les régions acadiennes et francophones de notre province.

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

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

Whereas la Semaine de l'éducation en français, which takes place from March 5^th to March 9^th is celebrating its 12^th edition this year; and

Whereas the French language is crucial to the preservation and development of Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone communities, their culture and their heritage; and

Whereas this event promotes the various learning opportunities offered to the Acadian and francophone communities of Nova Scotia, and raises the awareness of the English-speaking community of our province as to the benefits of an education in French;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in saluting the 12^th edition of la Semaine de l'éducation en français and inviting all Nova Scotians, Acadians, Francophones, and Francophiles, to participate in the activities planned in the Acadian and Francophone regions of our province.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

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

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : May I make a few introductions?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : If I could draw the members' attention to the Speaker's Gallery, I would like each and every one to stand as I call your name: Cpl. Janet Leblanc and her daughter Taylor Smith; Constable Bryce Haight; Constable Victor Manuel; Constable Cedric Landry; Constable Preston Burns and his wife Angie Burns; Cpl. Greg Deagle; Constable Justin Buggie; Constable T.J. Reid; and as well, the courageous and brave widow of Frankie Deschênes, Savannah Deschênes. (Standing Ovation)

I'm wondering if, after I introduce this bill, it would be okay if we could have a moment of silence in honour of Frankie Deschênes.

Bill No. 77 - Entitled an Act Respecting Road Safety Awareness and to Amend Chapter 293 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Motor Vehicle Act. (Ms. Karla MacFarlane)

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

If we could ask all members to stand, we'll observe a moment of silence in honour of the memory of Frank Deschênes.

[A moment of silence was observed.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Thank you.

Bill No. 78 - Entitled an Act Respecting Cape Breton Regional Municipality. (Ms. Tammy Martin)

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

The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. MOMBOURQUETTE « » : In the west gallery, I am joined today by staff from Municipal Affairs: Kathleen Patterson, Debbie Brown, and Mark Peck. I ask them to stand and be recognized. These are the three wonderful people who, on a daily basis, do whatever they can and work extremely hard to support municipalities in the province. Thank you for being here. (Applause)

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Bill No. 79 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 19 of the Acts of 2006. The Property Valuation Services Corporation Act. (Hon. Derek Mombourquette).

Bill No. 80 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 302 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Municipal Grants Act. (Ms. Tammy Martin)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

LEVY, WILSON: SENATE MEDAL - ACKNOWLEDGE

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Mr. Wilson Levy from Louisbourg, on recently being presented with a Senate Medal. Senator MacDonald made the presentation to several veterans on the occasion, which was held at the Louisbourg Legion. Senator MacDonald spoke and thanked the veterans for their service to our country.

Wilson was raised and brought up in Louisbourg, and has been a very active member of his church, and of the community. I am very proud to stand today to thank Wilson for his service to our wonderful country.

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

QUINN, HANNAH: ARTISTIC SUCCESS - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize 20-year-old Hannah Quinn of Terence Bay. Hannah is a Grade 12 student at Halifax West High School, and a talented artist, who has cerebral palsy and a very independent spirit.

Hannah uses acrylic paint to create her vivid artwork, and is often inspired by the Terence Bay landscape, as she loves scenery and trees. Hannah discovered her artistic talents by working with her friend and Learning Centre teacher, Lindsay Sheppard, and with her education program assistant and fellow artist, Glendalee Clattenburg.

Hannah likes to experiment with colour and texture to create her art. She is a prolific artist with an eager market for her work. She also takes on commission pieces, and sells her paintings at local farmers' markets. I would like the members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Hannah on her successes to date, and to wish her well in the future.

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

FED. FLEET SERV. OFFICE: GRAND OPENING - CONGRATS.

MS. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, we are a military community, so I would like to acknowledge the official opening of the Federal Fleet Services Office. The grand opening of the Halifax Operation Centre took place on December 8, 2017.

This beautiful centre is housed in the office space owned by the Halifax Port Authority, which includes the support training and other facilities that make a home base for this team. The centre will facilitate the work of the MV Asterix, an interim auxiliary naval replenishment vessel. This vessel will provide the Navy with fuel, cargo, ammunition, a floating hospital, a platform for two helicopters, and quarters for humanitarian rescue operations.

Everything is in place to start working with the Canadian Navy in 2018, and I ask the House to join me in congratulating them on this exciting endeavour.

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

DUALE, ALI: HFX. SESQUICENTENNIAL AWARD - CONGRATS.

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ali Duale for recently being awarded the Halifax Sesquicentennial Award.

Ali Duale is an active member of our community, serving as the Diversity and Community Liaison Officer for Halifax Fire and Emergency Services. He works alongside newcomers to aid them in any of their needs when transitioning to a new environment. He has also served on the Interim Management Committee of his Mosque, as well as coaching two basketball teams, and organizing swimming programs for children of his community, to name just a few of the great things that he does.

[10:30 a.m.]

Mr. Speaker, I ask the members of this House to join me in commending Ali in being a recipient of this award, and thank him for all his contributions to our community.

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

TIZZARD, BRUCE (LEITCHES CREEK):

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PAINTER AND COM. VOLUNTEER - RECOGNIZE

MR. KEITH BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I stand in my place today to recognize Bruce Tizzard of Leitches Creek, Cape Breton.

Mr. Tizzard shares his artistic talent with others. He paints landscapes and portraits and also volunteers his time to teach painting to patients in long-term care. Along with giving his time freely to others, he sits on the Northside-The Lakes Community Health Board and volunteers with hospice palliative care. Through social media he freely shares his experiences with others and encourages them to consider volunteering, too.

I ask all members of this House to join me in recognizing Bruce Tizzard and thanking him for all he does through his community volunteering.

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

PEDDLE, BRAD (ST. F.X. X-MEN HOCKEY):

2017-18 AUS COACH OF THE YEAR - CONGRATS.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, for the second time in his 13 years as the head coach of the St. F.X. men's hockey team, Brad Peddle has been named the Atlantic University Sport Men's Hockey Coach of the Year. Over the course of his coaching career at X, Brad has led the team to 12 consecutive AUS playoff appearances - and did I mention that they are the reigning AUS champions, back-to-back champions to be exact?

Mr. Speaker, Brad is a former X-Men, having played with St. F.X. from 1995 to 1999. During those four years he won many awards, including being named a CIS All-Canadian. I know the St. F.X. community is proud to have him call Antigonish home and I'd like to offer my congratulations to Brad Peddle on being named the 2017-18 AUS Men's Hockey Coach of the Year.

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

FONG, GREG (DARTMOUTH):

VILLAGE ON MAIN VOLUNTEER - THANK

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dartmouth East resident Greg Fong, perhaps best known as the owner of the Garden View Restaurant.

Greg has kept himself busy working with The Village on Main to create an age-friendly community with arts and health hubs. Greg's creativity and dedication to community improvement is exactly what the Main Street area needs. Although the temporary closure of the Garden View has left a void in our hearts - and our stomachs - we can't wait for it to reopen in its new, environmentally sustainable building that will not only fulfill our food cravings but will serve a variety of needs in our community of Dartmouth East.

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Greg Fong, thank you for your dedication to Dartmouth.

MR. SPEAKER « » : I'd like to remind all members to keep your comments directed through the Chair and not to speak directly to the subject of your member's statements.

The honourable member for Preston-Dartmouth.

SPIVEY, REV. KIRBY (NEW BEGINNINGS MINISTRY):

YOUTH MINISTRY - CONGRATS.

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize Reverend Pastor Kirby Spivey of New Beginnings Ministries who became the second pastor in July 2012. He has also opened a second campus of the New Beginnings Ministry in North Dartmouth in 2016.

He holds youth advocacy and mental illness as two causes close to his heart. He collaborated with other pastors to found Save Our Sons/Sisters Mentoring Society, SOS, to improve the lives of our young people. He developed the Youth Growing in Christ as a safe place for young people to build friendships and learn to respect themselves and each other.

I applaud and congratulate Pastor Kirby Spivey for his tremendous success and determination for improving the lives of young people in our community.

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

WHITE POINT BEACH LODGE: 90^th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

MS. KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, in 1928 White Point Beach Lodge was built as a hunting and fishing lodge, and people came from many parts of Canada and the U.S. for many years following to enjoy the beautiful scenery and plentiful fish and game. Eventually businesses began to use the lodge for retreats and conferences, and individuals and families vacationed at the resort, often returning for future visits.

In November 2011, this historic and much-loved resort burned to the ground but, thanks to the determination of many, White Point was rebuilt and reopened its doors for business less than one year later.

This year White Point Beach Resort is celebrating its 90^th Anniversary. I offer my congratulations to all who have been involved in its resilience, and wish the resort many more years of success.

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

FRIENDS OF NATURE CONSERVATION SOC.:

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP - RECOGNIZE

MR. HUGH MACKAY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the important work done by the Friends of Nature Conservation Society which was incorporated in Canada in 1968 with its headquarters located in Chester. The organization was founded by Rudy Haase, a much-respected and missed member of our South Shore communities, who passed away in early 2017. The members of this volunteer society are dedicated to maintaining the balance of nature for the mutual benefit of people, our flora, and fauna.

Over the years, Friends of Nature has participated in many important environmental projects. To name just a few highlights, they helped establish the Shelter Cove Wilderness Sanctuary on the Eastern Shore, campaigned to protect Georges Bank from oil and gas drilling, and more recently, publicized the importance of preserving Kaiser Meadow Brook forest in Chester-St. Margaret's. The society is a member organization of Nature Canada, Nova Scotia Environmental Network and the Nova Scotia Public Lands Coalition. I invite the members of the House of Assembly to wish them well in their future endeavours. Thank you.

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

ER NURSES: COMMITTED AND RESILIENT - THANKS

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, emergency nurses treat patients who experience injuries or other trauma in emergency situations. They often find themselves working in busy and noisy conditions. ER nurses must be quick decision makers, often facing life-or-death situations. These nurses must be able to multi-task and prioritize the different levels of patients' needs. It is very common for an ER nurse's shift to be very stressful and fast-paced. They are faced with treating and stabilizing the severely ill or patients in life-threatening situations. I would like to join all members of this Assembly and thank all nurses, in particular, ER nurses, who must efficiently discharge, admit, transfer, treat and triage at a very high speed. Thank you.

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

HOLLY HOUSE (ELIZABETH FRY SOC.):

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CLOSURE IMMINENT - GOV'T. FUNDING REQUESTED

MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today on a week where we recognize women to ask for assistance with and to celebrate the vision of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia, a community where women and girls are not imprisoned, and where the root causes of criminalization, namely trauma, are addressed.

One undeniable risk factor for women in the justice system is a lack of affordable, safe, and stable housing. Holly House is an Elizabeth Fry Society transitional housing facility in Dartmouth South for women exiting prison and jail. The only facility of its kind in the province, it provides up to eight women with affordable housing, on-site comprehensive reintegrating programming and support, and coordination for long-term housing options. Many of these residents struggle with addictions, mental health, and trauma and these struggles can be triggered at night or on weekends.

The Elizabeth Fry Society, despite no government funding for staff for the operations of the house, has recognized this need and added staff. Unfortunately, funded with only a single office space, and a meagre housing allowance of its tenants, Holly House cannot afford to keep this house open for women any longer. Please join me in requesting the minister to consider directing a small amount of funds required to keep this vital service in our community.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Hammonds Plains-Lucasville.

TANTALLON PUBLIC LIBRARY: COM. HUB - THANKS

MR. BEN JESSOME « » : Mr. Speaker, the Tantallon Public Library is a prime example that libraries are not just for books anymore. On Friday afternoons, they have game sessions where community members get together to play crib, Scrabble, or any other game one wants to bring. On Thursday evenings Needle Niche, a craft social group, meet to work on their needle projects. They have a sensory-friendly library time for adults, children, and families who are living with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other sensory disorders.

Tantallon Public Library is a great asset to our community and these are just a few examples why. I ask all members of the House of Assembly to join me in thanking all libraries across Nova Scotia, including the Tantallon Public Library, for what they do for all members of our communities, not only offering great books but also offering a wonderful place to come together. Thank you.

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

LOUISBOURG SHARK DERBY SOCIETY:

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("MAKO MY DAY") COM. FUNDRAISING - THANK

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Louisbourg Shark Fishing Derby Society for once again exceeding expectations this past year. They raised a grand total of $17,000 with the help and support of Louisbourg and surrounding areas. The Louisbourg Shark Fishing Derby donated $12,000 to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation; half of this donation was used to purchase a Pace Art Machine, which remotely monitors patients with pacemakers from the comfort of their own homes. The remaining money was combined with donations made by some local generous merchants to purchase a special operating table. The Shark Fishing Derby Society also donated $5,000 to the Louisbourg and Area Christmas Helpers Program, which assisted several families over the holidays.

Mr. Speaker, I stand today to thank the Louisbourg Shark Fishing Derby Society and all involved in the Mako My Day, which is held annually in August. We are proud and thankful for all they do. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

SWEET INDULGENCE CAFÉ (LUNENBURG):

GREEN AWARD ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY - CONGRATS.

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate Kate Cocks, owner of Kate's Sweet Indulgence Catering and Caféin Lunenburg, on receiving a Green Award from the Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia.

Kate has implemented a variety of environmentally friendly components to her business. She started with sorting stations for customers to sort their garbage, and switched all the lights in the business to LED lights. Kate has limited the number of plastic bottles her business will sell to almost zero and sells reusable BPA-free water bottles. Paper products used in the caféare 95 per cent post-consumer and unbleached, and to reduce water consumption Cocks has installed a special attachment on the dishwasher. At Sweet Indulgence Catering and Café, Kate Cocks has sourced biodegradable compostable cups, lids, straws, and wooden takeout cutlery. All of these changes have enabled Cocks to lessen the impact her business has on the environment.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask that you and the members of this House of Assembly please join me in congratulating Kate Cocks and Sweet Indulgence Catering and Café on their Green Award and their positive contributions to the environment. Thank you.

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

FUNDY VIEW COM. CTR. (HALLS HBR.):

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SUPPORTIVE VOLUNTEERS - CONGRATS.

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, the Fundy View Community Centre provides a focal point for the social life in Halls Harbour. It is a welcoming venue for dances, public meetings, yoga, and community meals. The survival of the community centre depends on many residents who invest countless volunteer hours helping out.

Therefore I request the House of Assembly to join me in congratulating the Halls Harbour community for its untiring commitment to making the Fundy View Community Centre a gathering place of the citizens of Halls Harbour. Thank you.

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

PAULINE POTTER COM. HEALTH CTR. (NORTHWOOD):

NEW NURSE PRACTITIONER - CONGRATS.

MS. LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Northwood, in my constituency, for recently securing funding from the Department of Health and Wellness to add a nurse practitioner to its Pauline Potter Community Health Centre.

The Pauline Potter Community Health Centre currently serves Northwood residents with the services of a family doctor, dentist, ophthalmologist, and more. The addition of a nurse practitioner means that Northwood will be able to meet the primary health care needs of some of its immediate neighbours - more of my constituents in Halifax Needham.

I urge the department to continue to work to add resources to existing community health centres, which are well placed to grow collaborative care practices in Nova Scotia. Thank you.

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

PAULA ZWICKER (SALVATION ARMY - FAIRVIEW CITADEL):

ESL TOWN HALL INVITATION - THANKS

MS. RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Paula Zwicker for organizing a town hall for the English as a Second Language group at the Salvation Army-Fairview Citadel.

She invited the MLA, a representative from Halifax fire, and representatives from the Halifax police. I had the opportunity to discuss three levels of government with the newcomers. I also emphasized the value of volunteering as a way to build relationships in the community and to improve their language skills. I also emphasized to them that my door is always open. The newcomers had many great questions, especially to the MLA. They were truly eager to learn more about the government and various services in their community.

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I would like to thank Paula Zwicker who volunteers with the Salvation Army-Fairview Citadel for their invitation to speak and answer questions at the meeting. I'm truly looking forward to hearing about the success that these newcomers from so many different countries will achieve in their new home. Thank you.

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

DESIRAY DOBSON:

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS (EATING DISORDERS) - COMMEND

MS. ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge a very special young woman named Desiray Dobson.

After struggling with mental and physical health in the form of an eating disorder, Desiray reached out publicly to create awareness, and it was very brave of her to come forward. We're hoping that this will encourage others who are struggling as well. Desiray has brought awareness to a topic that should be discussed more. Mental illness is a growing concern in our community and it is people like Desiray bringing it to light that will help end this topic as taboo in our society. Thank you.

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

PENG, CHANTAL:

YOUNG MUSICIAN, COMPOSER AND LEADER - RECOGNIZE

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I feel it's appropriate during International Women's Month to recognize an exceptionally talented young musician and engaged woman, Ms. Chantal Peng.

In 2017, Chantal, a student at Horton High School, received the prestigious Nova Scotia Talent Trust Award and was a top prize winner in the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra Concerto Competition, the Annapolis Valley Music Festival, and the Great Composers' International Artist of the Year Competition. She performed with the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra and Symphony Nova Scotia and was invited to play at the East Coast Classical music festival.

Ms. Peng was also the Nova Scotia ambassador for Act 4 Global Change, a youth-focused social justice initiative, and was selected to participate in the Rotary Club's Adventure in Citizenship Program, which gave her the opportunity to travel to Ottawa to enhance her understanding and appreciation of Canadian citizenship.

Please join me in acknowledging Chantal Peng's impressive accomplishments in 2017 and wishing her continued success in all her future endeavours.

[Page 2490]

[10:45 a.m.]

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

GIBSON, GERRY (ST. PETER'S LIONS CLUB MARINA):

KNOWLEDGE AND HOSPITALITY - RECOGNIZE

MS. ALANA PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to acknowledge Gerry Gibson, the manager of the Lions Club-owned marina in St. Peter's. Boaters from around the world travel to explore the beauty of the Bras d'Or Lakes and St. Peter's Marina, an almost-sure stop upon arrival in Cape Breton.

Gerry Gibson's name is recognized by boaters from near and far. He goes out of his way to make sure guests have everything they need to make their stay in the village comfortable. His commitment is an excellent example of how extraordinary hospitality can help grow tourism.

In addition, Gerry is an OCC Port Officer who understands the needs of OCC sailors. He was a primary point of contact for the Tall Ships when they arrived in St. Peter's in 2017.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Gerry Gibson and the impact he has personally made on tourism in Cape Breton-Richmond.

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

THEATRE N.S. MERRITT AWARDS: NOMINATIONS - CELEBRATE

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, yesterday the nominations for the 2018 Theatre Nova Scotia Merritt Awards were announced. I'd like to extend my congratulations to all the nominees and indeed all of those who made theatre in the last year.

This year's nominees made up a wonderful cross-section of the theatre community here. Nods went to the flagship Neptune Theatre, rural companies like Two Planks and a Passion and Ship's Company, established independents like Zuppa Theatre and 2b Theatre, and new companies like Heist and Felix Productions.

I'd like to give a special shout-out to Dartmouth North's Genevieve Steele, who was nominated in the Outstanding Female Actor category for her performance of Miriam in Neptune Theatre's spooky Snake in the Grass.

The Merritt Awards, named for the late Robert Merritt, a professor of theatre at Dalhousie, celebrate the best in Nova Scotia's professional theatre community and also celebrate the contribution of our community theatres. At the awards, which will be held on March 27^th, Merritts will be handed out in 15 categories. There will be special presentations as well.

[Page 2491]

I look forward to celebrating the nominees and winners on the night and encourage all members to share in the celebration.

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

KESELJ, MARIA: DONATED HAIR

(BEAUTIFUL LENGTHS PROGRAM) - COMMEND

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, in honour of International Women's Day later this week, I'd like to tell you about a young woman who recently gave of herself. Maria Keselj is a Grade 11 student at Charles P. Allen High School, where she is in the International Baccalaureate Program. She is a terrific young woman.

I recently ran into her and noticed she had cut her hair. It turns out that Maria recently donated 10 inches of her hair in four ponytails to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. This program is a partnership between Pantene and the Canadian Cancer Society. It uses real hair donated by volunteers like Maria to make wigs for women battling cancer. It takes eight to 15 ponytails to make a single wig, and since 2007 Canadians have donated over 70,000 ponytails.

I want to thank Pantene and the Canadian Cancer Society for this program, and I'd like to commend Maria for her donation and thank her for helping women battling cancer.

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

RITTER, ANN (ROSS FERRY):

MUNRO ACADEMY GRADE 11s ENERGY PRIZE WINNERS - CONGRATS.

MR. KEITH BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, Anna Ritter, a Grade 11 student in Munro Academy in Balls Creek and a resident of Ross Ferry, was chosen from among many students around the world to deliver a welcoming speech to 3,000 participants at the opening ceremonies of the Zayed Future Energy Prize in Dubai.

Anna was the spokesperson on behalf of her school, which won the American division for global high schools for the Zayed Future Energy Prize in 2015 for a solar air heater made from recycled materials. Anna and her fellow students competed against many high schools worldwide.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all MLAs to congratulate Anna Ritter, her fellow students, and the staff of Munro Academy on their accomplishment and thank them for their support toward world changes to the global environment.

[Page 2492]

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

BLACKWOOD, GARY:

PUBLICATION OF DETECTIVE BUCKET SEQUEL - CONGRATS.

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Author Gary Blackwood from Tatamagouche has had 34 written works published, including children's books. However, in 2017, he had his first adult novel published.

His novel, entitled Bucket's List, was published in the U.K. in September and in Canada in December. Blackwood said he loved the character Inspector Bucket in Charles Dickens' novel Bleak House and thought he would make an interesting main character for his novel. The character had been based on a real detective from Scotland Yard, so Blackwood decided to set his novel in 1853.

When he began his novel and only had a few chapters written, Blackwood reached out to agents and publishers, and was very surprised when he quickly received a publishing offer. They even indicated that they would like to see a sequel, which Blackwood is now working on.

I look forward to many more literary works to come. Congratulations, Gary, keep those novels coming.

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

SEARS, MIKE: FIREFIGHTER AND VOLUNTEER - RECOGNIZE

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm very open about my respect and admiration for first responders. Today, I would like to recognize one of those first responders from Dartmouth East, Mike Sears. He has served with the Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency for over a decade, and has established a reputation of respect and professionalism.

He is a former football coach, and also a proud member of the Union Fire Club Pipes and Drums, a non-profit society that helps provide musical support to members and families of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency.

I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize Mike Sears for his honourable service through community work and as a firefighter, and to recognize, of course, the amazing work done by all our first responders.

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

[Page 2493]

BROOK RIDGE FARM (ANTIGONISH CO.):

CDN. VERIFIED SHEEP PROGRAM CERTIFICATION - CONGRATS.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, food safety has become one of the highest priorities for food producers all over the world.

Mr. Speaker, in March 2017, the Canadian Sheep Federation launched their new Canadian Verified Sheep Program. It is a voluntary, on-farm food safety program that allows producers to demonstrate responsible management practices. The program looks at minimizing food safety risks, maximizing animal care, and reducing bio-security risks - all in an effort to produce a safe and high-quality product.

In December 2017, Brook Ridge Farm in Antigonish County became the first farm to achieve certification in this new program. Brook Ridge Farm is owned and operated by Ian and Rhonda McCarron, they have about 200 acres. Anyone who has been to the Antigonish Farmers' Market has probably seen their remarkable products: wool throws, slippers, et cetera.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer my congratulations to Ian and Rhonda on becoming the first farm to achieve certification through the Canadian Verified Sheep Program. To voluntarily aim for this level of certification shows a high level of commitment and dedication to food safety.

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

MACISAAC, JOHN ANGUS:

INITIATED N.S. SEAT BELT LEGISLATION - COMMEND

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, John Angus MacIsaac was born in Inverness and moved to New Glasgow when he accepted a position with Beneficial Finance. Jack quickly became a well-known and respected resident of Pictou County.

He first entered the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 1977. In 1983, following a Cabinet shuffle, Jack was appointed Minister of Transportation. He thought the most contentious issue for people of the province was highway safety. This was the beginning of the idea regarding seat belt legislation.

In March 1984, MacIsaac, a minister in Premier Buchanan's Cabinet, introduced amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act of Nova Scotia. Nova Scotians would have to buckle up starting January 1, 1985. When the former politician reflects on this legislation, he refers to it as a game-changer in highway safety.

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

[Page 2494]

ISENOR, ROBYN (R.S.I. DANCEWORKS):

COM. ENRICHMENT - RECOGNIZE

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : Mr. Speaker, 23 years ago a young woman from East Hants took a huge leap of faith and opened a dance studio in Enfield. Robyn Isenor's dream was to contribute to the promotion of fine arts in the area.

The first year of R.S.I. Danceworks welcomed just 28 children. A couple of decades later, the studios of R.S.I. teach over 400 dancers, from ages 3-to-18 years. The students have won awards in national competitions, including a best choreography overall award in an Ontario competition.

Ms. Isenor has directed her creative talents and ingenuity to a successful fundraiser in the area, creating, producing, and staging an annual event at the theatre of Hants East Rural High. Throughout the sharing of the joy of dancing, the production Nutcracker Dreams has provided over $7,000 to the community.

I invite all members of this House to join me in recognizing Robyn Isenor and the students of R.S.I. Danceworks for their hard work, talents, and gift of dance to enhance the community of East Hants.

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

BICKERTON, KILEY AND BACON, BEN (AMHERST) -

BRAVERY: FIRE RESCUE - COMMEND

MS. ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize the bravery and selflessness of Kiley Bickerton and Ben Bacon of Amherst.

These two citizens were driving by their work sites, when they noticed smoke coming from a home. They stopped to make sure everyone was safe, but ended up helping a woman escape from the burning home. They found a nearby ladder and acted quickly. The rescue went smoothly, and the woman was rescued just as the fire department arrived.

Kiley and Ben are examples of people who understand the importance of thinking fast and helping others, and are heroes in my eyes.

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

UNIVERSITÉ SAINTE-ANNE:

[Page 2495]

REBUILT CHURCH POINT LIGHTHOUSE - THANKS

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, as some might know, I'm a firm believer in preserving an important part of our history: the Nova Scotia lighthouse. In another time our shorelines were dotted with many lighthouses, whose beacons would guide our sailors and fishermen home at night and in bad weather. Church Point was home to such a lighthouse, built in 1874 and operated until 1984. Unfortunately, over the years, the living quarters were torn down and a storm in 2014 brought the rest of the lighthouse down.

Since then, the lighthouse has been rebuilt, looking very much like it did in 1874. It will be used by UniversitéSainte-Anne's biology department as a laboratory for banding activities. Over this last summer, the site offered different experiences related to the environment around the lighthouse. There, people could learn about local marine life, coastal environment, and then walk on the nearby beach.

I would like to thank UniversitéSainte-Anne and its partners for rebuilding this beloved community landmark, and developing a new, unique experience for the people of the area and its visitors.

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

CHEDABUCTO CURLING CLUB (BOYLSTON):

EXPANSION - CONGRATS.

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Chedabucto Curling Club in Boylston for their recent expansion and renovation. The curling club is a very busy facility that serves all ages from the surrounding communities, and was long overdue for these upgrades. The efforts put forth by the current and former members to fundraise and acquire local business contribution is appreciated greatly. We are grateful for their dedication in providing a fun and engaging winter activity that promotes an active lifestyle with a game that is steeped in Canadian tradition.

I commend the accomplishments of the Chedabucto Curling Club and wish them the very best of success with their program.

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

RAFTUS, KELLY-ANNE: DONATED HAIR/COM. FUNDRAISER

FOR VICTIM OF VIOLENCE - ACKNOWLEDGE

MS. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to let the House know that I live in the best constituency in the province. This past weekend, we had another fundraiser for another member of our constituency who was violently attacked in their home - their throat was slit and they were left for dead.

[Page 2496]

This community came together to fundraise for this person, and one of the volunteers was Kelly-Anne Raftus, who is 8 years old, and she had her hair cut - 16 inches off her hair - to raise $300 towards this endeavour. Mandy Raftus is her grandmother, and you've heard me mention her before, because if there's a fundraising effort going on in our constituency, Mandy Raftus and her granddaughters are always involved.

I want to acknowledge everyone in the constituency for coming out for this young gentleman, and for everybody else in our constituency who needs help. We truly live in a very loving environment.

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

FOGG, TAYLOR (MAHONE BAY) - GENEALOGY VIDEO:

YOUNG CITIZENS PROGRAM - CONGRATS.

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, every year two students from each province and territory are selected to participate in a national forum by Young Citizens, a program sponsored by Canada's History Society. Taylor Fogg of Cornwall was one of two students from the South Shore who were named as Nova Scotia's honorees in the national Young Citizens Program.

Entrants are required to make videos about their heritage fair projects. Taylor was one of 200 entrants who created a video about their heritage fair project, the Fogg family tree. Taylor's project included extensive research into her family history, tracing back over 5,500 ancestors and up to her 21^st great-grandparents from the 1300s.

This project awarded her the opportunity to attend the national forum in Ottawa. I would like to ask the members of this House of Assembly to please join me in congratulating Taylor Fogg on her hard work and success with her heritage fair project on the Fogg family tree.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The time allotted for Statements by Members has expired.

[11:00 a.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM.: EDUC. REFORM ACT - INCLUSION PROVISION

[Page 2497]

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : I rise today with great concern over the way this government is proceeding with these drastic and wide-ranging changes to the education system. This legislation makes tracking and monitoring the changes exceptionally - and I hope not intentionally - difficult.

It was pointed out over the weekend by a former member of this House that the current legislation had a big hole right where classroom inclusion was supposed to be. Now, in a mad scramble, we're trying to make amendments.

My question for the Premier is, did he accidentally misplace the inclusion clause, or was the intention to remove the clause from the bill in the beginning?

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL » : The clause the honourable member is referring to was a clause in there directing school boards. If she goes back to the special education policy that the minister would fall under, it would actually hold the minister to that particular policy, which would ensure that we accommodate all students across this province to continue to make sure that they can thrive in particular classrooms.

We heard from communities across the province, from people from the disabilities community, from parents who were concerned. We amended the bill. I think that's what Law Amendments Committee is about.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : The point is that this piece of legislation is weak and it has gaps through it. It's hard to have confidence in this bill when the authors are still plugging holes at the last minute and drafting notes from Twitter responses. We have seen that.

Even in light of the latest amendment, the Premier insists on fast-tracking this piece of legislation. How can the Premier be certain that there aren't any more crucial omissions in this piece of legislation?

THE PREMIER « » : It wasn't an omission, quite frankly, Mr. Speaker. I just explained where we felt that it was dealt with. But we heard from the community. That's what a reasonable government should do. I want to thank those Nova Scotians who thoughtfully looked at this piece of legislation instead of listening to the rhetoric coming from the opposite side of the House.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, this is an extremely important bill, and like I said, there are all kinds of things being pointed out that are missing from this bill.

More importantly, what's the rush? Why are we rushing this bill? The Premier has already delayed the bill once - I know it was only for a few days. However, after that delay, we found that there was language missing from the bill, language that is crucial to hundreds of families in our province that are totally confused right now over this piece of legislation.

[Page 2498]

Will the Premier please take the time to check this legislation and make sure that his legislative timetable isn't doing more harm to students?

THE PREMIER « » : The only one confused, Mr. Speaker, is the Leader of the Official Opposition. The fact of the matter is that I have heard from parents across the province who are grateful that the government listened. I heard from teachers across the province yesterday, some of whom were in my office to thank us for listening and continuing to move this piece of legislation forward. Quite frankly, they're grateful for a government that recognizes that the education system has to change and a government that is prepared to act.

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

PREM. - EDUC. REFORMS: DISMAY - IMPERVIOUS

MR. GARY BURRILL « » : Yesterday at the Law Amendments Committee, we heard many thoughtful and compelling responses to the government's proposed revamping of public education in Nova Scotia. One of those many responses was from a woman named Cheryl Crocker, who spoke about how it was deeply troubling to her that the people that she had elected to the school board were being - these are her words - chucked out the door.

I want to ask the Premier, is he entirely impervious to the dismay that there is amongst the people of the province that a whole order of elected government in Nova Scotia is being chucked out the door?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank all those who presented before Law Amendments. I want to thank those who came forward. I want to thank the minister and the people who sit on Law Amendments Committee, all of those who actually voted for the amendment that was put before that. I want to thank the New Democratic Party for recognizing that we should put the amendment forward. We voted for it.

I also want to remind the honourable member, though, that he knows that school boards across this province, on five different occasions, have been completely removed by all governments in this House, for all kinds of different reasons.

What we have created is an administrative model that reflects the reality of today. We're looking forward to getting on with ensuring that we continue to transform the education system to one that is responsive to the needs of the individual communities and empowers teachers and administrators to deliver the quality education that our families deserve.

MR. BURRILL « » : In our Party, we believe that when there are problems with an order of government, it calls for improvement and reform, not for obliteration.

[Page 2499]

Now yesterday we also heard at the Law Amendments Committee from Pamela Lovelace. She drew attention to the fact that this debate is taking place right on the eve of International Women's Day, and the word she used when she spoke to her own reaction to the elimination of 57 elected women in Nova Scotia school boards was "heartbreaking."

Mr. Speaker, the Premier is the author of this heartbreak and the cause of this heartbreak. What manner of justification can he possibly put forward to all those people who are heartbroken by the erasure of so many women's elected voices in Nova Scotia school boards?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I want to remind the honourable member that when he was in government and his Party was in government they dismissed an entire school board across the province. They replaced it with one person on the South Shore. They had other issues where they had to send someone in to particular school boards. He would remember when they sent someone in to Colchester County to deal with helping them build a budget.

The reality of it, Mr. Speaker, is that what we've done is created a structure that we believe reflects the reality of today, an administrative model that works for the people of this province.

I want to tell the honourable member and the person who was making the presentation that this government takes its responsibility seriously when it comes to gender equality. That's why we have ensured that we have gender parity on the provincial Family Court benches in this province. It's why we had the opportunity to continue, as a government, to ensure that the senior levels of government reflect gender equality, unlike that group of people who say one thing, quite frankly, and when they have an opportunity, do the exact opposite.

MR. BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, all I know is that what was being discussed were 57 positions which exist today and which, by the intention of this government, will not exist very shortly.

Now we also heard yesterday from Principal Pat Savage. One of the things he said, very interestingly, was that in his evaluation of governments that a core matter he judges is, what does that government do to advance the democracy of our province? Does it advance people's participation, does it advance the meaningfulness of people's participation?

Mr. Speaker, this Premier is taking all of our elected school board positions and replacing them with 12 appointed ones. Here's the question, what else can we conclude but that this government is diminishing, undermining, rendering smaller and weaker the democratic system of our province.?

[Page 2500]

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, what he can conclude is that the New Democratic Party is okay with the status quo. I'm glad he is. We're not and we're preparing to move forward to transform public education so it responds to the needs of individual children across this province and responds to the uniqueness of communities. We're empowering principals and vice-principals and classroom teachers to deliver the quality education that our children deserve. The status quo - this Party is moving forward.

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

PREM.: SEX TRAFFICKING - COMBAT

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Last week I was disheartened to read another story about sex trafficking in Nova Scotia. Young women, actually girls, as young as 14 are actually convinced with great promises of nice clothes, expensive gifts, and are forced into sex work - as many as 15 partners a day.

While the vulnerable sectors of our society are the most frequent sources of victims, the girls come from all areas of Nova Scotia. Recently an RCMP officer actually referred to sex trafficking as Nova Scotia's hidden epidemic. I'll table that.

I'd ask the Premier, has he had any opportunity to meet with law enforcement and other stakeholders to determine what the province can do to help combat this frightening and heartbreaking issue?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I have not met with other agencies outside on this particular issue. I do know that I have met with the Department of Community Services about children we have in care who have been forced into the sex trade. As the honourable member has raised, we're looking at ways that we can support those young women who are in our care, to make sure that not only are we providing them a safe environment but we're also providing them the place where we can help them get well. We're going to continue to work with them.

To your point, I have not personally spoken with law enforcement agencies outside on this issue.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : I want to thank the Premier for his thoughtful response. I don't pretend to know the answers. I know it's a great challenge. I want this to stop, I want to help. I think everyone here in this Chamber wants the same thing. (Applause)

They are manipulated, they are cajoled, they are blackmailed, they are victimized, and re-victimized, leaving them with no way to escape until they are no longer useful to anyone who can help them.

[Page 2501]

I would like if the Premier could guarantee us here, today, that he will work with the Justice Minister, the Education and Early Childhood Development Minister, Community Services, and Health and Wellness, because I see them as being key role models in this. I would like a promise that we will move forward collectively, together, so that we can stop this.

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. She is right, the barriers that are sometimes created in government within departments need to be torn down. We work very hard on a number of issues; this would be one of them.

As she alluded to, the Minister of Justice would play an important role, the Minister of Community Services, the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, the Minister of Health and Wellness. Quite frankly all members of the Executive Council and members of this House need to ensure that we continue to make sure that our daughters have the ability to go to school and not worry when they step outside and onto a sidewalk that they are going to be confronted by someone who has nothing but ill for them, continues to treat them as nothing but non-human.

We are going to continue to work forward. We have to make sure that our daughters know that when they leave the presence of their parent, and people who love them, that they are going to be supported by a community and that we will have in place the infrastructure they can respond to that will keep them safe. We're working very hard to ensure that those who come into care to us are getting that.

In your earlier question, in your preamble, there is no socio-economic issue here - this is every one of our daughters; this is every one of our communities. It will take all of us to ensure that we continue to move this issue forward.

I want to thank the member for bringing it to the floor of the House of Assembly and I look forward to continuing to work with her and members of the Executive Council, and all members of this House, to ensure that our daughters are safe. (Applause)

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

EECD - RAISE THE BAR REPT.: FACTUAL ERRORS - REASSURANCE

MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. The much-maligned Raise the Bar report contains a number of factual errors which have been widely reported on. Notwithstanding the minister and the Premier's public commitments to the implementation of the results of the Commission on Inclusive Education, which we have not yet seen, the key provision of the current education guaranteeing inclusive education was not included in an effort to plow forward with these changes.

[Page 2502]

Mr. Speaker, what reassurance can the minister possibly provide to Nova Scotians that additional mistakes have not been made?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL » : Mr. Speaker, I want to be clear, it's not fair to suggest that a model of inclusion was not included in this bill. As I've informed the member, Clause 61(a), "promote excellence in education and the achievement of all students . . .", so that is implicit, the model of inclusion is implicit in the language of this bill. "All" means every single child, each and every one of them.

We do understand that the implicit language has created concern for families and that there is a desire to have explicit reference to inclusion. That's why we are moving forward with an amendment to the legislation, to accommodate that desire.

MS. CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, with all due respect, advocates are crying foul and implicit isn't good enough. All day yesterday we heard from parents, teachers and others, many in tears, who brought forward a list of issues in our education system, both systemic and specific, that are crying out for urgent attention - more transparency in the school review process, more school psychologists, more supports for students learning English as an additional language, and more responsiveness for the needs of diverse learners.

Had the government brought forward a proposal to address any of these issues in our classrooms and schools and school system, I feel confident they would have been met with support from all Parties in this House.

Mr. Speaker, why is the minister insisting on pushing forward these reforms, the reforms that don't deal with any of these issues in the Glaze report, when they do nothing to meet our students' most urgent needs?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : In fact, more resources into the classroom, better education for rural students, a better capital planning process, all those things the member referenced are in the Raise the Bar report and are recommendations that have come forward from Dr. Glaze herself. People miss the report in its entirety because people have been focused on controversial recommendations around a college, around administrators coming out of the union. But despite those two things, which we actually believe are important objectives to move towards, in fact this report has helped us chart a course for many of the issues that member brought up.

Furthermore, we're moving forward with the report on inclusive education which will be coming out at the end of March. The fact is that having a more streamlined administrative model that is unified, from one part of this province to the other, will help ensure the smooth transition to that new model as well.

[Page 2503]

[11:15 a.m.]

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

ENVIRON.: CAP AND TRADE COSTS - ACKNOWLEGDE

MS. KIM MASLAND « » : My question is to the Minister of Environment. Recently the minister announced reporting requirements for companies that will be forced to participate in the province's cap-and-trade program. We now know that about 20 companies will participate, and those companies will be required to report their greenhouse gas emissions to the government. What we still don't know is how much this is going to cost a farmer in Kentville filling up their truck with gas, a mother in Cheticamp buying cereal, or a student in Halifax trying to pay their electricity bill.

My question is, when will the Minister of Environment come clean on what this government's climate change schemes are going to cost Nova Scotians?

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member opposite for the question and remind all members in this House that there is a requirement set by the federal government that all provinces have a price on carbon. We elected to go with the choice of a cap-and-trade system.

It's the lowest-cost system as an option for this province. It recognizes the work that Nova Scotians have done, the power rates they have paid, and the increases that have been put in place by past governments. We will ensure that we have a system that is lower than the other provinces comparatively. It's a cap-and-trade system.

We will be going out to consultations this Spring, and we look forward to that discussion with Nova Scotians.

MS. MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Environment said, "We need to find our baseline, we need to set caps, and then we will be able to have a discussion on what the impact will be . . ." for Nova Scotian consumers. I'll table that.

I don't need to remind the minister that this Liberal Government announced nearly 18 months ago that they would be introducing a cap-and-trade scheme. That's 463 days that Nova Scotians have wondered, with little action and no clear answer from this government, how this scheme will hit their pocketbooks and how they'll pay for it all. The clock keeps ticking. Even in his most recent announcement, the minister had absolutely nothing to offer in terms of how this scheme will affect consumers.

My question is, how does the minister expect Nova Scotia families to budget and plan for the future when they have no idea when or how cap-and-trade costs will affect them?

[Page 2504]

MR. RANKIN « » : As I said, we are moving forward with the cap-and-trade system. The legislation is through the House. The next step was to go forward with the quantification reporting and verification regulations - the most important regulations to have in place.

This is a system that only impacts the highest emitters in the province, which are over the threshold of 50,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. We look forward to getting that information so we can look at the emissions that they have today as a baseline. As I have said publicly, we'll be looking at setting caps that are commensurate with the benchmark that is set in place by the federal government.

It is the lowest-cost option for Nova Scotians, and I am proud of this legislation.

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

COM. SERV. - MOTHERISK LAB: FAULTY RESULTS - REVIEW

MS. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Community Services. Nova Scotians stopped using hair-based drug and alcohol testing in child protection cases in 2016, after serious shortcomings were found at the Motherisk lab at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children. Between 1997 and 2015, as many as 380 Nova Scotians tested positive for drugs and alcohol, based on data supplied by Motherisk.

This week, senior legal counsel for the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission said the government has a duty to look into those cases where faulty drug testing played a role in children being removed from the home. My question is, will the minister act on the advice of the Human Rights Commission and review the 380 cases where faulty testing from the Motherisk lab played a role?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Any time we are looking into a child custody case, we would use a variety of different tools to determine whether a child should come into the care of the minister. Lab testing is only one of those tools. I want to assure the honourable member that no decision is ever made solely on the basis of lab results.

MS. ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, I would still encourage the minister to follow up on the advice of the Human Rights Commission and look into those cases because I personally know people who have been affected by those drug tests.

My supplementary question to the Minister of Community Services is, two weeks ago the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia ruled the Halifax Toxicology Lab, which the department uses for drug testing, could not offer expertise in a child protection case. The court said the lab was not designated as a forensic lab or subjected to external oversight. It's also unclear if the lab adheres to international standards. It sounds a bit like déjà vu.

[Page 2505]

We're wondering, Mr. Speaker, in the question to the minister, how many child protection cases have involved testing from the Halifax lab, and is the minister satisfied with the test results performed at this lab so far?

MS. REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member once again for her question. I would just say that if she is aware of any cases where Motherisk lab results were used in a child custody case, to please have those families contact our department. We did ask people to contact us if they wanted their case reviewed, so I would please ask about that.

In the case of the other lab, there have been no concerns raised at all about any of the work at that lab. It is simply that Justice in this case wanted to have a different standard, and we are reviewing that particular case.

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

H&W - MENTAL HEALTH: E.R. SERVICES - LACKING

MS. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, over the weekend, Nova Scotians read about a Lower Sackville woman who believes her treatment by the Nova Scotia Health Authority put her life in jeopardy. I'll table that document.

After successfully managing her mental illness for a quarter of a century, Lisa Card says that visiting the emergency room was one of the most devastating experiences she has ever had accessing mental health services. When she saw a doctor at the Infirmary ER, Ms. Card said she was told she would not be given any help and they would not review her medications; this even though she reported that she feared for her own well-being.

The question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, can the minster explain how a woman who feared she was a danger to herself was sent home?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : I thank the member for the question. As the member would know, I am not able to speak to any individual cases - particularly around privacy reasons - for health issues that come up. In a general sense, Mr. Speaker, when individuals show or present themselves, whether for a physical ailment or a mental health situation at an emergency room, they are triaged first by a nurse to identify the severity of the case, and then meet with a physician. The clinical physician does the assessment and moves forward with the appropriate course of treatment. That is what the expectation would be.

MS. ADAMS « » : In that particular case, the brother of the woman took her back into the ER and insisted that she get care, and they finally did bring somebody down to talk with her, which was different from the first time she went in the door, because she had somebody else there advocating for her.

[Page 2506]

The question in the same article, Dr. Sam Campbell, Chief of the Emergency Department at the Halifax Infirmary, said there is an 85 per cent chance that people who go to the emergency department will not see anyone but the emergency room physician. While Dr. Campbell wouldn't say that the mental health system is broken, he says it's struggling. He went on to say, "It's unbelievably stressful working here at times, especially when everyone is unhappy. The system is making people wait far too long."

My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness, when Nova Scotians seeking help have only a 15 per cent chance of getting beyond the emergency room doctor, the public is stressed out. Will the minister admit that it is time to improve mental health services for Nova Scotians in the province?

MR. DELOREY « » : Again, I thank the member for the question. I think it's important that, when reflecting on data information, the reference to an 85 per cent chance that individuals presenting at an emergency room alone would be seen by the emergency room physician - I believe that reflects the fact that in those cases, they are able to be treated by those physicians, based on their expertise, and the nature of the conditions they are presenting with.

I believe the member may be inferring perhaps more into that statement that was made than was intended by the physician.

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

COM. SERV.: ABDOUL ABDI CASE - ADVOCATE

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, Abdoul Abdi came to Canada at the age of six as a refugee from Somalia. When he was seven, he was removed from his home and while in the care of the Department of Community Services, he was shuffled between 31 different group and foster homes.

During the entire time Mr. Abdi was in the province's care, the department failed to apply for citizenship on his behalf. When his aunt tried to apply for citizenship for Mr. Abdi she was barred from doing so. It was the province's responsibility to apply for his citizenship, and because of the department's failures, Mr. Abdi is now facing deportation to a country he has not lived in since he was a toddler.

Mr. Speaker, given the Department of Community Services' failure to appropriately care for Mr. Abdi, will the minister take immediate action to advocate against the deportation of Mr. Abdi?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, as the honourable member knows, I am unable to speak to any specific cases in this House. We do not confirm whether someone was in the care of DCS or not. That's the law.

[Page 2507]

I want to assure the honourable member that we do take this matter seriously. In the past, we have had a practice of applying for citizenship. We are now changing that into a policy. It is a situation that has come up very rarely.

We also have the ability to extend a child's care in the care of the minister, in a case where it's discovered that that has not happened, that citizenship has not been applied for. I want to assure the honourable member that we would always take any steps possible to make sure that that young person gets their citizenship applied for.

MS. LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, we don't know how many other children are in this situation as we speak. The Deputy Minister of Community Services has admitted that the department still has no policy specific to children who are not citizens, and despite what the minister has just said, they don't expect to address this issue until 2019.

Will the minister explain why her department refuses to make the necessary changes to prevent children in their care from facing deportation as adults, and could she address what she can do now to help Abdoul Abdi?

MS. REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I would note that when we extend the care of a child past the age of majority, so they can remain in our care while citizenship is applied for, we can't force anyone to do anything, Mr. Speaker.

I do want to assure the honourable member that our government has been in contact with the federal government on this particular case, and I want to assure her we have done everything possible to assist.

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

H&W - DARTMOUTH GENERAL:

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES - LACKING

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. In his November 22^nd report, the Auditor General said, "Dartmouth General is the only regional hospital without a crisis response service and no psychiatry support to the emergency department." I'll table that.

In response to the report, the minister stated that 911 services are always available. I'll table that as well.

If someone in Dartmouth calls 911, they are taken directly to the Dartmouth General. If a Dartmouth resident in psychiatric crisis phones 911, they're going to end up at a hospital that doesn't have appropriate support.

[Page 2508]

My question for the minister is this, what good is a 911 service if people in crisis are taken to a hospital that doesn't have the treatment they need immediately?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member again for bringing forward an important topic around mental health services. It's important for Nova Scotians to know that, in addition to the services that are provided in communities when an individual is in crisis, that they can call the provincial mental health crisis line. They have professionals available who are specifically trained around mental health and helping to assess the situation and work with those citizens who are receiving those services. They can also coordinate and bring additional support services out to the individuals in crisis.

MR. HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm sure the minister would agree that when someone is in the grip of a mental health crisis, every second counts. When someone in Dartmouth calls 911, they are automatically delivered to the Dartmouth General. Mental health patients at the Dartmouth General can at times wait days to be transferred to the QEII, the closest hospital offering the services they require. This is a substandard level of care that, as the Auditor General pointed out, exists in no other regional hospital in Nova Scotia.

My question is this, Mr. Speaker, when will the residents of Dartmouth get the mental health services they deserve and desperately need?

MR. DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, we continue to expand our investments in mental health care for residents in Dartmouth and across the province - investing in our past budget for this fiscal year, hiring additional clinicians to provide mental health supports in communities, supporting the expansion of SchoolsPlus, and providing those support services there.

[11:30 a.m.]

Through our efforts to establish more and expand existing collaborative care practices, including not just front-line health care providers, but also clinicians like social workers and others, to work in those collaborative teams, providing care in the communities for all Nova Scotians. Thank you.

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

H&W - C.B. REG. HOSPITAL: MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS - SHORTAGE

[Page 2509]

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. In November, the Cape Breton Post reported that anyone under the age of 19 in crisis requiring psychiatric help would not be seen at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital's Emergency Department. None of the psychologists in the hospital are specialized in youth mental health. The emergency department was not comfortable with admitting youth in the adult psychiatry program. That means young people needing mental health care had to travel to the IWK, five hours away, for treatment. This is totally unacceptable to the people, and the needs, of Cape Breton residents who already have to wait 157 days for adolescent outpatient community-based mental health services. So, my question is, can the minister tell Nova Scotians how many Cape Breton young people have been transferred to Halifax since November, and how long will this practice remain?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity when I was last in Sydney about a month ago, to actually stop by Cape Breton Regional Hospital - indeed, I met the honourable member on my way in as he was leaving the facility - to meet with psychiatrists at the facility to talk about this and other aspects of mental health services in Cape Breton. In that discussion, I wanted to gauge the psychiatrists' comfort with the approach that was taken in response. Indeed, what I was advised is that this is work with the IWK. It's the same approach and model used across the province, and not all of those consults require transportation to the IWK. Many of those consults can take place through telecommunications as well.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm sure that that answer is very comforting to the parents of children that need this service. (Interruptions) Is it somebody else's turn to question?

A few days ago, I searched to see the number of job postings for psychiatrists in Cape Breton. There were 12 psychiatrists for various places, including Sydney, two separate postings for four psychiatrists for Sydney and Antigonish, a child and adolescent psychiatrist for Sydney, and a psychiatrist for Sydney Mines. Mr. Speaker, I can't tell how many psychiatrists are needed or how many are being sought. This is a crisis situation that the people cannot stand for, and the community cannot bear. So, my question is, how long will it take until there is a sufficient number of mental health professionals in Cape Breton so children aren't separated from their family, along with their other issues?

MR. DELOREY « » : I thank the member for raising this question, this concern, which as he noted in the data he provided, affects not just his constituents but, indeed, expands to many other parts of the province. He cited in the data my own constituency in Antigonish, and the need for additional supports there as well. I can assure the member that the NSHA is recruiting actively for psychiatrists, as well as other mental health clinicians, and family practice primary care providers. We know that there's more work to be done, but we're also having success. Indeed, just about two or three weeks ago, I had the opportunity to meet with prospective specialists. A psychiatrist was one of those prospective specialists, looking to move to the Eastern Zone. So, again, the work is ongoing and we are having interest.

[Page 2510]

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

H&W – N.S. HEALTH AUTHORITY: MENTAL HEALTH SERV. - ADEQUACY

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, Heath care, mental health services are a concern for the people of Pictou County as well. The demands for mental health services greatly outpace the availability, particularly since the temporary closure of our short-stay unit three years ago. Access to help is hard to find. Follow-up is lacking. Many people don't have a family doctor and they're forced to go to a walk-in clinic to try and get a referral to a psychiatrist, and you can imagine how that works out for them. Residents of Pictou County are forced to do without access to services, or maybe try to drive down the road to another hospital in Antigonish or Truro. We know now, we have heard, that there's no guarantee that they'll get access there.

My question for the minister is, can the minister tell me whether he believes the Nova Scotia Health Authority is providing adequate mental health services to the people of Pictou County?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : We continue to provide supports to Nova Scotians in need of medical care, whether that be physical or mental supports.

The nature of the conditions that one is presented with will dictate the course of action and treatment that would be provided. There are many different courses or paths of treatment - community care, in-patient care, as well as consultation with specialists. Perhaps in some cases, a specialist is not required, and other mental health clinicians provide those services.

Again, Mr. Speaker, supports are available. We continue to work to expand those supports, and we're investing to do more.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Supports may be available. The question is, are they adequate? I think the answer is obviously no, they're not adequate.

If there is a theme that surrounds the current health care system, it is crisis - crisis and uncertainty. When they need help, Nova Scotians can't be certain that there will be an ambulance available when they call 911. When they get to the hospital, they can't be certain that the emergency room will be open or able to provide adequate care and services. With mental health, they can't be certain that the service will be available at all.

What I would like to ask the minister is, can the minister offer some level of certainty by telling this House what he has planned for mental health services in Pictou County to improve the current situation? What does he have planned?

[Page 2511]

MR. DELOREY « » : What the member would know is that as a government, we have committed in our budget for this year to continue our investments in mental health supports.

We have specifically targeted investments towards youth mental health as a major component of that, Mr. Speaker, with our partnership with the Education and Early Childhood Development Department. Through SchoolsPlus to provide clinicians, we continue to recruit for other specialists - psychiatrists - throughout the province to enhance and strengthen our support teams for mental health services inside our hospitals and within our communities.

The member is right. There is more work to be done, and that's why we're continuing to invest in this as one of our key priority areas.

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

COM. SERV.: MOTHERISK LAB. RESULTS - REVIEW

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : My question is once again for the Minister of Community Services. As we have already heard, an independent review in Ontario of hair-strand testing by the Motherisk laboratory found the testing to be inadequate and unreliable for use in child protection proceedings. The report found that as a result of Motherisk, children were wrongfully removed from their homes. One Hamilton mother lost custody of her daughter for six years based on the faulty testing.

We know this testing was also used as evidence in protection cases here in Nova Scotia. The minister has told us that the hair testing is only one of the factors that goes into the removal of children from their homes, but if the test is faulty, it should be completely discounted.

Will the minister agree to review all instances where Motherisk testing was used in Nova Scotia instead of putting the responsibility on vulnerable individuals to bring forward a complaint?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I want to assure the honourable member that in cases where child custody is being investigated, we have a number of different tools that we use to determine whether or not a child should be removed from parental custody. I want to assure this honourable member that a lab test would only be one of many different standards that would be looked at when custody is being decided.

MS. LEBLANC « » : A senior lawyer with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission says that the provincial government owes it to the families to look into whether faulty drug tests have resulted in the unjust removal of their children. Many people who are potentially affected don't have the resources to argue with the department over this.

[Page 2512]

Yesterday in response to a media story, Adsum for Women and Children tweeted that they were reminded of a mom they know who was adamant she was not using drugs, and that when the hair test showed positive, she felt defeated. Given how the system has failed these families, does the minister think it is reasonable to expect them to come forward to that same system now?

MS. REGAN « » : I want to ensure the honourable member that we take the care of the children who are in the care of the minister very seriously. We understand that this is a very difficult thing for a family to go through, and I want to advise her that if she is aware of any cases at all where people believe that they had faulty tests, to please just contact the Department of Community Services and we will make sure that a review is conducted.

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

H&W: COBEQUID COM. HEALTH CTR. - 24 HR. SERVICES

MR. BRAD JOHNS « » : When the House last convened, I asked the Minister of Health and Wellness numerous times whether there might be any future plans or opportunities that would see emergency services at the Cobequid Community Health Centre in Sackville offered 24 hours a day, even if only just over the weekends. I've gone back through Hansard and I understand that the minister's response at the time was provided in the context of overall primary care services and a collaborative centre plan; however, he did mention at that time that the option had not really been looked at.

My question therefore to the minister is, now that the question has been raised in the Legislature, is there any opportunity that the residents of Sackville, Beaver Bank, Bedford or Fall River can anticipate anything in this coming budget that would establish emergency services at Cobequid Community Health Centre 24 hours?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : I thank the member for the question. The budget will be coming down this session. I will defer to that time, rather than jumping ahead of any investments that may be announced as part of that.

MR. JOHNS « » : Thank you, minister. I'll look forward to that.

I do realize that the Cobequid Community Health Centre does not currently offer food services to accommodate patients, and beds are designed for services rendered and not necessarily for admissions. There are insufficient resources there - no on-site laboratories, radiology, or sub-specialty services available after midnight.

So, my further question is, am I correct in understanding, and if the minister could clarify, that all these services would therefore be required at Cobequid Community Health Centre to have that facility open 24 hours?

[Page 2513]

MR. DELOREY « » : The member would be correct that there are a number of requirements that would be needed to meet the clinical requirements to fulfill emergency care over 24 hours, which may include admissions. As the member would know, we are working on the QEII redevelopment and part of that process is looking at evaluating the services and how and where they are delivered across the province.

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

H&W - PUGWASH EMERG. DEPT.: CLOSURES - URGENT PRIORITY

MS. ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I am very concerned about the unsafe conditions in my constituency with the closures of the Pugwash Emergency Department. My residents in Pugwash and the surrounding area are worried. They never know if the emergency room is open or closed. The communication plan does not work and this is creating unsafe conditions for our people. Sick residents of Pugwash will often go to the emergency department to be turned away.

My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, when will he please take the health care needs of the people of Pugwash seriously and find an urgent plan and make them and their health care needs a priority?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : I'd like to make sure that the member opposite is clearly aware that indeed I take the concerns and the needs of all Nova Scotians, including those in Pugwash and throughout her constituency.

The process for managing ERs, particularly in our community hospitals, first involves an extensive effort to ensure that physicians and the required health care staff are available. Every effort is made to find staffing for those shifts when the need arises; they work as hard as they can to get those positions filled to try to avoid any closure time at these facilities.

MS. SMITH-CROSSIN: Unfortunately, it is not the only emergency department that is closed in my area. Often Springhill and Parrsboro emergency departments are also closed, putting all the pressure on Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre. That regional hospital emergency department has one physician often covering an area of up to 40,000 people. The result is chaos, with horrible wait times and ambulances that cannot off-load their patients - and people are getting angry.

What upsets me is that they are getting angry at the wrong people. They're getting angry at the doctor, they're getting angry at the nurses that are working in these unsafe conditions. They should be directing their anger, Mr. Speaker, to this government who refuses to take care, and make changes in this crisis.

[Page 2514]

What is the Minister of Health and Wellness planning to do to stop these emergency room closures?

[11:45 a.m.]

MR. DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, there is a lot of work that is ongoing. These challenges with getting the staffing in some locations, its physicians and others, its nursing staff. Mr. Speaker, it's not a challenge restricted to Nova Scotia. Indeed, just in the last couple of weeks, right across the border from the member opposite, a large hospital in Moncton actually had their emergency room shut down due to staffing shortages.

This is a challenge facing health care centres across the country. We're continuing to work to improve the situation, Mr. Speaker. Part of that is recruitment, and we're continuing those efforts throughout the province.

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

FISH. & AQUACULTURE - COOKE AQUACULTURE:

JORDAN BAY SITE - ANSWERS

MS. KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. The minister's explanations, both in this House and to the media, with respect to the Jordan Bay Cooke Aquaculture site, defy belief, and quite frankly, are incomprehensible.

The severity of the storm at Jordan Bay in December, which had wind gusts over 170km per hour, and reports from the local fishers, would paint a much different picture - or photograph - and yet the minister sticks by his story relying on information provided by Cooke Aquaculture. We still have no independent verification, or veterinary reports from the minister or his department, that would ease community concerns.

My question is, when will the minister stop protecting Cooke Aquaculture, and start supporting the concerned citizens in the community, industry, fishers, and ultimately, the consumer?

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, as I've said here in the House before, we did investigate the situation in Jordan Bay, we will continue to do that if need be. My understanding is that everything has been cleaned up, as required under the Act. Indeed, we incurred a substantial amount of cost around $14,500, just reviewing the site, to see what happened on the site. Everything was done by the book and absolutely everything is cleaned up.

MS. MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, the minister told Nova Scotians that any issues regarding escaped or deceased fish were the responsibility of the Department of Environment. However, it is the responsibility of his own department. Then the minister referred individuals to call an incorrect number to voice their concerns. Finally, the minister informed individuals to contact the Cooke Liaison Committee, but apparently, that committee doesn't even exist.

[Page 2515]

Residents are generally concerned about what's going on at this site. Cooke Aquaculture was fined in other jurisdictions for being negligent and having poor maintenance practices.

My question is, will the minister release a detailed time of events, outlining when his department sent their divers and their veterinarians to expect the fallout from this event, and report results from those inspections.

MR. COLWELL « » : As I have already indicated, everything was done by the book. We had veterinarians on the site, as is supposed to be done under the regulations, and indeed, everything was cleaned up the way it was supposed to be cleaned up. Unfortunately, the member didn't understand that we did that. Environment was also involved in the enforcement, we did everything by the book, and everything is done properly.

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

ENVIRON.: PLASTIC BAG BAN - IMPLEMENTATION

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Environment. Nova Scotians have not been able to recycle plastic bags for over two months now. Halifax is sending bags to landfills, and in Colchester County, there are 17 shipping containers filled with compacted film plastics. So Nova Scotians are calling for a provincewide ban on plastic bags.

So, my question for the minister is this, could he please tell this House if the government plans to implement a ban on plastic bags, and if so, when?

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, the only municipality thus far that has asked for an exemption to put film plastic into a landfill is HRM. I'm not aware if they've done that, but it is an option of last resort. I want to remind the member, and all members of the House that today, even before that variance, the vast majority of film plastic does end up in a landfill, unfortunately.

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

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

[Page 2516]

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

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

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

[12:35 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft in the Chair.]

[7:48 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Kevin Murphy, resumed the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : 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. 72 - Education Reform (2018) Act.

which was reported with certain amendments by the Law Amendments Committee to the Committee of the Whole House on Bills with certain further amendments and the Chairman has been instructed to recommend this bill to the favourable consideration of the House.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, that concludes government business for the day.

I move that the House do now rise to meet again tomorrow, Wednesday, March 7, 2018, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Being that Wednesday is our Opposition Day, I now ask the Official Opposition House Leader to provide the House with tomorrow's business.

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT » : Mr. Speaker, after the regular routine and Question Period we'll be calling Bill No. 6, which is the Sexual Violence Action Plan Act and Bill No. 77, which was just introduced today, the Motor Vehicle Act, Frankie's Law - the pull-over laws.

[Page 2517]

I do now move that we rise to meet again tomorrow between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for the House to adjourn, to rise again tomorrow, Wednesday, March 7^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 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 tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.

[The House rose at 7:50 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 2518]

RESOLUTION NO. 933

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Mabel Francis for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 934

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Maggie Davis for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2519]

RESOLUTION NO. 935

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Margot Butroid for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 936

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

[Page 2520]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Margot Fraser for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 937

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Marie Harris for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 938

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

[Page 2521]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Marie Smith for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 939

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Marie Willis for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 940

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

[Page 2522]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Marilyn Meade for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 941

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Marje Hockey for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 942

[Page 2523]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Mark Flinn for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 943

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Marsha Wilson for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2524]

RESOLUTION NO. 944

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Maureen Murphy for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 945

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

[Page 2525]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Megan Harris for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 946

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Melan Sapp for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 947

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

[Page 2526]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michael Coward for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 948

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michael Lancaster for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 949

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

[Page 2527]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michael O'Brien for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 950

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michael Patrick for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 951

[Page 2528]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michelle Eskritt for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 952

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michelle MacLean for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2529]

RESOLUTION NO. 953

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Michelle Nolan for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 954

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

[Page 2530]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Mike Marriott for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 955

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Monique Glover for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 956

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

[Page 2531]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Myra Shaw for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 957

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Nancy Rondeau for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 958

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

[Page 2532]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Neil MacArthur for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 959

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Nick Horne for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 960

[Page 2533]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Nora Clohossey for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 961

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Oliver Reichmann for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2534]

RESOLUTION NO. 962

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Pat Bloodworth for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 963

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

[Page 2535]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Pat Lade for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 964

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Pat Swim for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 965

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

[Page 2536]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Patricia Muzyk for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 966

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Penelope St. Laurent for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 967

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

[Page 2537]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Peter Armstrong for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 968

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Peter Coade for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 969

[Page 2538]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Peter Dawson for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 970

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Peter Delefes for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2539]

RESOLUTION NO. 971

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Peter Lund for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 972

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

[Page 2540]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Peter Wilson for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 973

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Petra Rykers for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 974

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

[Page 2541]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Phil Young for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 975

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Reg Sollows for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 976

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

[Page 2542]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Rene Lavoie for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 977

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Rick Muzyk for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 978

[Page 2543]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Roger Butroid for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 979

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Rollie Swim for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2544]

RESOLUTION NO. 980

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Rowena Pickford for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 981

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

[Page 2545]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Rudy Haverstock for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 982

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Ruth Ann Blakney for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 983

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

[Page 2546]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Sally Ross for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 984

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Samantha St John for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 985

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

[Page 2547]

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Sandra Stiles for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 986

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Sarah Jeffers for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 987

[Page 2548]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Shaun MacIntyre for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 988

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Sherry Richardson for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

[Page 2549]

RESOLUTION NO. 989

By: Hon. Iain Rankin « » (Environment)

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

Whereas on Wednesday, February 7, 2018, the 200^th Bay Treasure Chest draw took place, and more than $1 million has been awarded to individual players and the same amount to partner organizations in the community for a variety of community projects; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest was established in 2014 as a community fundraiser and now benefits seven local non-profit partners, is supported by 15 local businesses, and involves more than 200 active and dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas the Bay Treasure Chest also contributes to other community groups through an honorarium program and a scholarship fund that helps local high school students continue their education;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in sending sincere congratulations and thanks to Tom Musial for being a part of this phenomenal community undertaking.

RESOLUTION NO. 990

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017, the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Colleen Jones was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 2 Nova Scotian Athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Colleen Jones for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

[Page 2550]

RESOLUTION NO. 991

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Al MacInnis was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 3 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Al MacInnis for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 992

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Nancy Garapick was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 4 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Nancy Garapick for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 993

[Page 2551]

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Sam Langford was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 5 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Sam Langford for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 994

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas George Dixon was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 6 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating George Dixon for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 995

[Page 2552]

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Johnny Miles was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 7 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Johnny Miles for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 996

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Aileen Meagher was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 8 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Aileen Meagher for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 997

[Page 2553]

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian Athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Steve Giles was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 9 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Steve Giles for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 998

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian Athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Mark Smith was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 10 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Mark Smith for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 999

[Page 2554]

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Karen Furneaux was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 11 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Karen Furneaux for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1000

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Ellie Black was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 12 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Ellie Black for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1001

[Page 2555]

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Jamie Bone was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 13 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Jamie Bone for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1002

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Mark de Jonge was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 14 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Mark de Jonge for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.

RESOLUTION NO. 1003

[Page 2556]

By: Hon. Leo Glavine « » (Communities, Culture and Heritage)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame honours the sporting achievements of Nova Scotian athletes throughout history; and

Whereas in 2017 the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame underwent a selection process to determine the top 15 Nova Scotian athletes of all time; and

Whereas Rob McCall was honoured by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame as the No. 15 Nova Scotian athlete in history;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join in congratulating Rob McCall for being named as one of the greatest Nova Scotian athletes of all time by the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.