[Page 279]

HALIFAX, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

Sixty-third General Assembly

Second Session

1:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

 

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition. The operative clause states:

"We petition/ask the Nova Scotia legislature to ensure federal and/or provincial prosecutors do not close/prosecute medicinal cannabis outlets/ storefronts in the province of Nova Scotia."

This petition has three signatures and I have affixed my signature to the petition.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank.

MR. BILL HORNE « » : I beg leave to table a petition, the operative clause reads as follows:

[Page 280]

"Whereas the population of Nova Scotia, is aging at one of the fastest proportional rates in Canada,

- the need for all forms of medical services is also increasing at an alarming rate and

- the need for ease of access to a major Medical facility is becoming increasingly urgent, outside of the city central core."

There are 44 signatures, and I have affixed my name as per the Rules of the House.

MR. SPEAKER « » : I will accept the petition under advisement and come back to you.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 102

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

Whereas from September 13^thto September 16^th, 28 Nova Scotian paddlers joined Team Canada, competing in the 2018 Pan American Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe Championships taking place in Dartmouth on Lake Banook; and

Whereas the championships will feature over 16 countries, with 350 athletes from North and South America facing off in a spectacle of world-class sport; and

Whereas our Nova Scotia athletes inspire all of us with their athleticism, hard work, and dedication in their years of training, striving to be the best;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating our Nova Scotia athletes, Team Canada, wishing them best of luck in the 2018 Pan American Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe Championships, and thanking the families, coaches, volunteers, and sponsors for their roles in supporting and empowering our athletes.

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

[Page 281]

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 103

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

Whereas bullying today goes far beyond the playground, campus, or workplace; and

Whereas smartphones, social media, and the anonymity of the online world has created increasing opportunity for cyberbullying and the unwanted sharing of intimate images, the impacts of which can be devastating for victims; and

Whereas the Intimate Images and Cyber-protection Act was adopted in response to the growth of these issues, providing victims access to free dispute resolution services in the province's dedicated CyberSCAN Unit and the ability to obtain protection orders through the courts;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing the importance of this issue and the dedication of staff in helping to combat cyberbullying and the unwanted sharing of intimate images and better support victims.

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.

[Page 282]

The honourable Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 104

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

Whereas lacrosse has a long and unique history in North America, originating with our Indigenous peoples; and

Whereas the National Lacrosse League is the largest men's professional indoor lacrosse league in North America and has recognized Halifax as a great events city and worthy of a professional franchise; and

Whereas the addition of a new sport and league, like the one we are celebrating today, would bring us together, build community pride, and continue to increase the economic benefits of sport;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in acknowledging and congratulating Curt Styres for his leadership and vision in bringing a professional National Lacrosse League franchise to Halifax and the Scotiabank Centre for the 2019-20 season.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 105

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

Whereas tissue donations and transplants impact hundreds of lives in Nova Scotia each year; and

[Page 283]

Whereas the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service and the Nova Scotia Health Authority Tissue Bank strive to fulfill end-of-life wishes and recover critical tissues, while providing the best possible care and support for recipients and families; and

Whereas a unique partnership was marked today which has resulted in the first dedicated tissue recovery suite in Canada within a medical examiner's jurisdiction, helping to achieve system efficiencies like tissue access recovery time;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in recognizing the work of the Medical Examiner Service under the leadership of Dr. Matt Bowes, and that of Harold Taylor, Health Services Manager with the Nova Scotia Health Authority Tissue Bank, to improve transplant patient care.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 106

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

Whereas today we recognize Stand Up Against Bullying Day and send a strong message against bullying in Nova Scotia's schools, colleges, and universities; and

Whereas on this day we affirm our commitment to stop bullying and respond effectively to unacceptable behaviours, including bullying, cyberbullying, violence, and all forms of harassment; and

Whereas government will commit to continue to support the development of safe, inclusive, and caring school environments where all students are safe, engaged, and able to learn;

[Page 284]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge Stand Up Against Bullying Day and the commitment and dedication of our students, teachers, and educational staff, who work to eliminate bullying in Nova Scotia.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 27 - Entitled an Act to Protect Animals and to Aid Animals in Distress. (Hon. Keith Colwell)

Bill No. 28 - Entitled an Act to Establish an Environmental Bill of Rights. (Ms. Lenore Zann)

Bill No. 29 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 246 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Labour Standards Code. (Hon. Labi Kousoulis)

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

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

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, may I make an introduction first, please?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. ZANN « » : In the west gallery, I'd like to draw everybody's attention to two people who are here from the Ecology Action Centre. We have Stephen Thomas and Meghan McMorris. I'd like you to give them the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

Bill No. 30 – Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 7 of the Acts of 2007. The Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act. (Ms. Lenore Zann)

[Page 285]

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

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

[1:15 p.m.]

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make another introduction.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. ZANN « » : Thank you. I'd like to take everybody's attention to the west gallery. I want to send a very warm welcome to Dr. Ingrid Waldron, who started the ENRICH Project and also worked with me on this bill I'm about to introduce. A warm welcome. Thank you. (Applause)

Bill No. 31 - Entitled an Act to Redress Environmental Racism. (Ms. Lenore Zann.)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

STAND UP AGAINST BULLYING DAY:

GROWING MOVEMENT - THANKS

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, today we mark Stand Up Against Bullying Day. It's a chance to send a strong message that bullying is not acceptable.

In 2007, the province proclaimed the second Thursday at the start of each school year as Stand Up Against Bullying Day after Central Kings Rural High School students Travis Price and David Shepherd rallied behind a student who was being bullied for wearing a pink shirt.

I am proud to say that more than a decade later the movement that Travis and David started is still alive and growing. I am disappointed that bullying and cyberbullying continue to be a devastating issue for so many Nova Scotians.

Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to thank Travis and David for taking a stand and beginning a movement, and I want to urge all Nova Scotians to do all they can to stop the scourge of bullying in our beautiful province.

[Page 286]

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

CLIMATE CHANGE: CITIZENS' EFFORTS - THANKS

MS. LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, today, as we watch anxiously to see if the preparations for Hurricane Florence are adequate to spare human life, or as we look forward to a weekend swim in a warmer-than-usual ocean, we owe a debt of gratitude to Nova Scotians who continue to talk about climate change and act to mitigate it, even as the Province of Nova Scotia does not.

I am particularly grateful to Stephen Thomas, the Energy Campaign Coordinator at the Ecology Action Centre, for building relationships and consensus with a wide array of organizations that collectively made the 2030 Declaration on the grounds of the Hope Blooms greenhouse in Halifax Needham on the blisteringly hot morning of August 30^th.

The Canadian Federation of Students, the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, and the Centre for Local Prosperity are just some of the signatories to the declaration, which calls for a 50 per cent reduction in Nova Scotia's greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in a way that promotes climate justice and sustainable economic prosperity.

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

MS. RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to make an introduction. We have a guest here in the east gallery: Ciro Comencini. Benvenuto, Ciro. (Applause)

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

CIRO'S ROMA CHEESE: ARTISAN CHEESE BUS. - CONGRATS.

MS. RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : I would like to introduce Ciro Comencini, who chose Canada as his new home. He immigrated to Nova Scotia from Verona, Italy, five years ago. He purchased a farm in Hants County and opened Roma Cheese, Ltd. in 2013.

Ciro has been making cheese since he was five years old. Ciro says all he wanted was to continue his family legacy and make a decent living in Canada.

His cheese products have made their way to the Dartmouth Alderney Landing farmers' market, the Halifax Seaport market, and numerous high-end restaurants in HRM. I am happy to say I have tried his delicious fresh mozzarella, scamorza, burrata, ricotta, and asiago.

Ciro and his lovely wife, Alessia, have six children all under the age of 14 and are expecting number seven in October.

[Page 287]

I ask that the members of this House join me in congratulating Ciro on his successful business and for bringing his beautiful family to Nova Scotia.

Ti auguriamo il meglio per tutte - le tue future impreze.

We wish you all the best in your future endeavours, Ciro. (Standing Ovation)

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

MACLEAN, NANCY:

BADDECK GATHERING CEILIDHS, 20^thANNIV. - THANKS

MR. KEITH BAIN « » : For the past 20 years, the Baddeck Gathering Ceilidhs has provided entertainment for locals and visitors alike at St. Michael's Parish Hall in Baddeck. The Ceilidhs were launched by Nancy MacLean in 1998, starting in a small way, but now has 80 shows scheduled each year.

Mr. Speaker, none of this would be possible but for the passion and dedication of Ms. MacLean, who continues to greet guests as they arrive - seven days a week throughout July, August, and the first three weeks of September.

I ask all members of the House to join me in congratulating Nancy MacLean on the 20^thanniversary of the Baddeck Gathering Ceilidhs, to thank her for all she has done over those years, and wish her the very best in the years ahead.

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

DART. N. OIL SPILL: DELAYED NOTICE - UNACCEPTABLE

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, last month, my constituency was informed through the news that 5,000 litres of oil had spilled into the harbour from Tufts Cove. Almost half a month later, it was revealed that an additional 9,900 litres had spilled into the containment trench.

The fact that the information surrounding this environmental disaster was less than forthcoming is extremely troubling. Two weeks is two weeks too long to inform a community of an oil spill on its shores. If this is the standard that is set as the government toys with issuing offshore exploration permits, then I would say we have a real problem in Nova Scotia.

I'm thankful that the oil spill in Dartmouth North was recovered quickly and that the response was immediate, but the lack of transparency around these issues raises many questions among my community members. I hope this government and the Minister of Environment in the future will commit to demanding a higher standard for companies operating in our province.

[Page 288]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney-Whitney Pier.

BLACK, SCOTT: SOFTBALL N.S. HALL OF FAME - CONGRATS.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Scott Black of Sydney on his induction into the Softball Nova Scotia Hall of Fame.

Scott Black is a founding member of the Alexandra Street White Sox, which was founded in 1984. Before coaching the team currently, he pitched for 15 years.

The Alexandra Street White Sox have hosted a number of tournaments here in the community at the provincial level, winning in 2012 and 2017. As well, they have hosted eight intermediate championships here in the community.

One of the highlights for Scott was in 1992 when he captured the Eastern Canadian Intermediate C Men's Championship.

I rise in my place today to thank Scott Black for his commitment to fastball in our community and keeping ball alive. I ask all the members to congratulate him on his induction into the Softball Nova Scotia Hall of Fame.

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

RIDE THE RIVER: INAUGURAL EVENT - CONGRATS.

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, Derrick Pierre and Jenna Tait, co-owners of Pier 15, are members of the Pictou County Ride the River Committee, which hosted a new event in New Glasgow on August 25^th.

The event for kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders took place in the East River. Participants experienced a unique perspective of the county's natural beauty, as well as the fun of participating in the first of what will hopefully become an annual event. Participants sailed from the marina to Raspberry Island for a barbecue before returning to the marina for an evening of great local entertainment provided by Mike and the MacPhersons.

Committee member Greg Burrows was very optimistic about this new event, an opportunity for exercise, fun, and socializing. Congratulations to all committee members for thinking outside the box - a new perspective to engage our community in healthy activity.

[Page 289]

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

OUTHILL LAKE CONSERV. SOC.: COM. SERV. - THANKS

MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, one of the best parts of being MLA for Dartmouth South is being continuously inspired by the work of the members of my constituency. Dartmouthians are ingenious self-starters.

Today as I wonder how our southern neighbours will fare in the wake of Hurricane Florence or how our western neighbours facing raging forest fires are coping, I'm inspired by the quiet steps Dartmouthians take to heal our natural world.

The Oathill Lake Conservation Society, a group of neighbours and friends, was formed in 2010 to restore the ecological health of Oathill Lake. Through public education, partnership with HRM, and hands-on labour, this group of citizens has made Oathill Lake a safe and sustainable place to swim and enjoy for everyone in the community.

It's no exaggeration to say that Oathill Lake is a gem in Dartmouth. It's a place to cool off, recreate and get away from the hustle of the city all within walking distance of the downtown core. Thank you to the Oathill Lake Conservation Society for preserving the integrity of this piece of nature for all to enjoy and for showing us that, even in a small way, we can be a force for positive change in the face of environmental challenges.

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

YAZBEK, YARA/MACLEOD, RENEE:

HFX. W. H.S. STUDENT GOVT. - CONGRATS.

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Yara Yazbek and Renee MacLeod for being elected as co-presidents for the upcoming school year at Halifax West High School. Each year, two students are elected as co-presidents of the student government at Halifax West and this year both Yara and Renee have that pleasure. Both girls served as Grades 10 and 11 representatives which allowed them to gain valuable experience that will ensure they do an excellent job in their new positions.

Halifax West has had one of the strongest student governments in the province for decades, including my own, with successes, including raising tens of thousands of dollars for the Terry Fox Foundation through their annual fundraiser, Head for a Cure. Yara and Renee are sure to have a busy senior year ahead of them by juggling both academics and extracurriculars. However, with the help of their executive and student government advisors new to the position this year, Madame Fougere and Madame Goora, there is no doubt Halifax West will continue its legacy of success.

[Page 290]

Mr. Speaker, I ask the members of this House of Assembly to join me in recognizing Yara Yazbek and Renee MacLeod and wishing them a very productive and fun school year.

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

TERRY FOX RUN: CHARITABLE FDN. - PARTICIPATE

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, September 16, 2018, people across Canada will take part in the Terry Fox Run. Almost 40 years ago, Terry Fox ran 5,373 kilometres over 143 days. He ran a marathon every day, showing Canadians that with an unbreakable spirit, improbable dreams can become realities. I am honoured to serve as an ambassador for the Terry Fox Foundation.

Cancer has touched all of our lives in some way, but we continue to get closer to a cure because of people like Terry Fox and the amazing efforts of the Terry Fox Foundation. Since he started his Marathon of Hope, his story has inspired millions around the world and the Terry Fox Foundation has raised, and continues to raise, millions of dollars for cancer research. Terry taught us that anything is possible if you try. The Marathon of Hope continues.

I ask all members of this House to join me in taking part in a Terry Fox Run in their community this week.

MR, SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

FIN ATL. FILM FEST.: SPLINTERS - CONGRATS.

MS. LISA ROBERTS; Mr. Speaker, FIN, the Atlantic Film Festival, opens tonight with Splinters, a film by Halifax Needham resident Thom Fitzgerald. It is a film based on a screenplay by a Nova Scotian, Lee-Anne Poole, shot in Nova Scotia and featuring a largely Nova Scotian – entirely Atlantic Canadian – cast, including Halifax Needham residents Stewart Legere and Mary-Colin Chisholm. Amazing. This speaks to the depths of the creative talent in Nova Scotia and to Thom Fitzgerald's commitment to this place.

After very rough years in the film industry, during which the province has continued to spend about as much on supporting the industry as it did on the film tax credit, but with dramatically less employment generated, Splinters is a triumph. I cannot wait to take my seat in a full theatre or, in this case, the Rebecca Cohn.

Congratulations to Thom Fitzgerald, cast and crew and to FIN, the Atlantic Film Festival.

[Page 291]

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

LEWIS, ABBY: LIFEMARK 5K RUN - CONGRATS.

MR. BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Abby Lewis, a Grade 6 student in Beaver Bank. At 11 years old, she was the first female in the 19-and-under age group to cross the finish line in the Lifemark 5km race last May in the Scotiabank Blue Nose Marathon. Her finishing time was 18 minutes and 45 seconds. Abby loves to run and it makes her happy and she's not just a runner. She's a member of the Chebucto Athletic Association, does crossfit in Halifax, competes in triathlons and swims with the Sackville Aquatic Club.

I'd ask the members of the Legislature to congratulate Abby and I'm wishing her the best of luck in her athletic career.

[1:30 p.m.]

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

HILLIARD, TRACEY:

BOOK, THROUGH RAINBOWS & STORM CLOUDS - CONGRATS.

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a good friend of mine, Tracey Hilliard of Albert Bridge, on her recent book launch. Her book is entitled, Through Rainbows & Storm Clouds: Finding His Place in This World. The book chronicles the Hilliards' journey following the autism diagnosis of their oldest son, Matthew. Matthew is now 21 years old and he has a 10-year-old younger brother, Marcus.

The 200-page book explores the world of autism and how Tracey and her husband, Mike, dealt with the obstacles, and rewards, they encountered along the way. Tracey, a tireless volunteer and vocal advocate for quality education, also encourages educators to read her book.

It is a true honour to congratulate Tracey on the release of her book, and I wish her well on her mission to help other families who are dealing with their diagnoses.

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

FIN ATL. FILM FEST.: LOCAL TALENT - RECOG.

[Page 292]

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, as my colleague from Halifax Needham has already said this evening, the red carpet will roll out for the opening of the FIN International Film Festival, and I want to take a moment to recognize all the local filmmakers, actors, crew members, producers, and other industry professionals who, against all odds, have contributed to this year's fine selection of films. I also want to acknowledge those who would like to be working in our film industry but who have had to leave the industry or the province since the Liberal Government cut their Film Tax Credit.

But tonight is a night for celebration, and so I want to acknowledge some of the people from Dartmouth North who will be featured in films this year: Shelley Thompson co-stars in this year's opening gala film, Thom Fitzgerald's Splinters; Hopeless Romantic is a film created by a group of female filmmakers including Megan Wennburg who is a co-writer and director, and Genevieve Steele, Keegan Blue, and Katie Dorion all have roles in that; musician and actor, T. Thomason has a lead role in Jay Dahl's Halloween Party and his mom, the aforementioned Shelley Thompson, also has role.

Dartmouth North is home to many people involved in the film industry and so I know I'm missing people, but I want to ask the House to join me in congratulating everyone involved in this year's festival and wish them a wonderful eight days of watching, networking, and learning.

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

MOTIONBALL MARATHON: COM. FUNDRAISING - CONGRATS.

MR. BEN JESSOME « » : Mr. Speaker, in July, 24 teams joined together at the Emera Oval for the 2018 Motionball Marathon of Sport in support of the Special Olympics. With the support of participants and sponsors, more than $68,000 was raised.

The day was fun-filled with participants teaming up with local Special Olympics athletes, where they competed in a variety of sports and activities. Seventy per cent of the proceeds from this event go to Special Olympics Nova Scotia to support programs for local athletes, and 25 per cent goes to the #NoGoodWay Campaign aimed at eliminating the "R word" from everyday conversation.

I've had the honour of participating in motionball for the past five years and I'm proud to be involved in this worthwhile cause. I'd ask all members of the House to join me in congratulating all the participants, and thank the volunteers of the 2018 Motionball Marathon of Sport, and wish them all the best in the future.

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

STAND UP AGAINST BULLYING DAY - RAISING AWARENESS

[Page 293]

MS. KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, today is Stand up Against Bullying Day, an original Nova Scotia idea since 2007. Today, Nova Scotians wear pink to highlight awareness of the issue and its primary message - to eradicate bullying and raise awareness of the crippling effects it can have on victims and society as a whole.

The subject of bullying is near and dear to my heart. I have witnessed first-hand the emotional and psychological toll it inflicts not only on the victim but also their family and, often, community.

I challenge all members of this House to join with me in condemning bullying of any kind and endeavour to raise awareness of this issue whenever the opportunity arises.

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

CAMERON, GUS: VETERANS ADVOCATE - THANKS

MR. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, Gus Cameron is a local Spryfielder who also served our country proudly for 26 years in the Royal Canadian Navy. Now retired, Gus stays busy working with and advocating on behalf of veterans.

When the federal government cancelled the veterans' NDI 75 card, as you would imagine, Gus and countless veterans across this country took it personally. Gus started up a petition, organized veterans, reached out to politicians of all stripes, and marched on Parliament. Well, it was announced on September 11^ththat the federal government will reintroduce a Veterans Service Card that will identify and honour our veterans.

A huge thank you to Gus for never giving up and fighting for our veterans, and a special thank you to his MP, Andy Fillmore, for working side by side with Gus to make this a reality.

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

CURRIE, SUZIE, Ph.D.: DEAN, ACADIA UNI. - CONGRATS.

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a Sydney Mines native, Dr. Suzie Currie, who just became the new Dean of Pure and Applied Sciences at Acadia University.

Dr. Currie will also be a professor in the school's biology department. Dr. Currie spent 18 years at Mount Allison University in Sackville, where she taught in the biology department. She has a long list of university administrative and leadership roles at which she has excelled.

I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate Dr. Currie on her new position and on her remarkable career.

[Page 294]

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

MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : I'd like to draw the members' attention to the west gallery where my husband has graced us with his presence today. I just wanted to note - much to his chagrin, I am sure - that my husband doesn't make it to the gallery because he's an awesome dad, hanging out with my three kids and working hard as an artist and arts administrator, so I'd like to ask you to join me in welcoming him to the House. (Applause)

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

FLINN, BOB: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

MR. HUGH MACKAY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember Bob Flinn, a resident of Chester and a fine gentleman. Bob passed away quietly at home on September 8, 2018, at the age of 90.

Born in Halifax, the son of Frank and Gladys Flinn, Bob graduated from St. Patrick's High School, then earned a Bachelor of Science from Saint Mary's University. He earned his degree in civil engineering from the Technical University of Nova Scotia, followed by a Master's in Architecture from McGill University.

After some Canadian adventures, including a stint on Baffin Island, he returned to Halifax to launch the Robert J. Flinn design group. At this time, he also began an enduring relationship with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, acting as the Chair of the Board for the Atlantic Region.

Bob's interests were eclectic. He was a lifelong sailor, rower, skier, golfer, fly fisherman and a beekeeper.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly join me in offering our condolences to Bob's wife, Betty Flinn, and to his children, grandchildren and large extended family.

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

INTL. STUDENT PROG.: VOL. HOSTS - THANKS

MS. ALANA PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, as the 2017-2018 academic year came to a close, the Nova Scotia International Student Program celebrated it's 20^thanniversary of hosting students in our province. During these 20 years, over 15,000 international students have been hosted in Nova Scotia. On average, an international student contributes $25,800 to the local economy, and in 2017-2018 alone more than $28 million was contributed to this province by international students.

[Page 295]

In September, the Strait Regional Centre for Education in Cape Breton-Richmond is expecting 105 students and chaperones from 17 different countries around the world, with more to come for the second semester. Students are welcomed and live with host families while completing their studies in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to host families and program organizers for providing this opportunity which benefits students, families and the Province of Nova Scotia.

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

FORAN, STEVE: BIG BROS. BIG SISTERS MENTOR - THANKS

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Foran of Clearland for his ongoing involvement in the Big Brothers Big Sisters In-School Mentor Program.

Every week for the past five years, Steve dedicates a one-hour meeting with his current mentee. The meetings involved eating lunch, playing board games, playing sports and hanging out. Steve considers himself to be a very lucky person to have grown up in a family with siblings and parents and believes in giving back to those who may be less fortunate. Steve proclaimed that the meetings have had a vast impact on his own life and he now considers his mentee part of the family.

Steve encourages others to get involved in the Big Brother Big Sisters Mentors Program, stating that the one-hour meeting could be the most important hour of the week for a child who is just a little less lucky.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Steve for his time and dedication to the Big Brothers Big Sisters In-School Mentor Program.

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

BATES, COREY/MERRILL, NICK: SLO-PITCH TOURNAMENT - TRIBUTE

MS. ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure today to recognize the families of Corey Bates and Nick Merrill. For the last 12 years they have organized a Slo-pitch Tournament in Amherst that has raised over $50,000 for youth sports and charitable organizations.

The two young men died tragically in a car accident in 2007. There is no doubt they would be proud of the work done in their memory. It has brought the community together and the families have been able to give back through their tragedy.

[Page 296]

Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to thank the families of Corey and Nick for their selflessness and their ongoing support and commitment to the community.

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

COATES, JAN: NEW CHILDREN'S BOOKS - CONGRATS.

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Wolfville author Jan Coates on the release of two new books, Talking to the Moon, and A Halifax Time-Travelling Tune.

Talking to the Moon is a story about an 11-year- old girl who arrives in Lunenburg looking for her birth mother and her roots. A Halifax Time-Travelling Tune is the story of a child who falls asleep and is whisked away to the 1950s Halifax by a magical tune.

Jan has written over 20 stories for children, all based in Nova Scotia, telling Nova
Scotian stories. She has twice been short-listed to the Atlantic Writing Competition and a finalist for the Governor General's Literary Award for Children's Text.

I would ask the members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Jan Coates on the publication of these two books and look forward to many more Nova Scotia stories from Jan.

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

FRASER, BERNICE: TERRY FOX RUN - COMMEND

MR. TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and honour Bernice Fraser of Springhill. Bernice participated in her first Terry Fox Run in 1992, when her employer vowed to match all funds raised that year. Bernice will never forget when Terry Fox came to Springhill. She has carried the torch ever since.

Through pledges and bake sales, Bernice has raised more than $50,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation. With Oxford Frozen Foods matching every cent, Bernice is responsible for more than $100,000 for this great charity.

Each year, Bernice walked 6.1 kilometers for the Terry Fox Run with her daughter Sandra. Sadly, Sandra passed away from cancer. Bernice promised Sandra she would not give up the fight and she has kept that promise.

Mr. Speaker, I commend Bernice Fraser for her dedication and perseverance and thank her for continuing the fight for this great cause.

[Page 297]

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

FRIENDS OF CARIBOU ISLAND:

LIGHTHOUSE RESTORATION - THANKS

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend the Friends of Caribou Island. Local residents of Caribou Island took a keen interest in the preservation of the historic Caribou Island lighthouse. This lighthouse stands as a landmark for tourists entering Nova Scotia from the Northumberland Ferries and is a working beacon for ocean traffic and the ferry service which makes a number of crossings a day.

Over time, the lighthouse became worn down. The residents took it upon themselves to contact the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans to offer their services in painting and ground maintenance in order to showcase the icon of Nova Scotia. Through their dedication this past Spring, the lighthouse received some much-needed renovations.

On behalf of Pictou West and Nova Scotia, I wish to thank the Friends of Caribou Island for their commitment and to know that if we all work together, anything is achievable.

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

LANDRY, DYLAN: UNDER 17 BASKETBALL ATHL. - CONGRATS.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, the Nova Scotia under-17 provincial boys' basketball team competed and won gold this summer at the national championships in Kamloops, British Columbia.

Yarmouth's Dylan Landry was a member of that team. Dylan is a grade 12 student at Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High and as a member of the Nova Scotia under-17 team, he competed in games and tournaments throughout the Maritimes, Quebec, and Springfield, Massachusetts, culminating in the team's trip to the nationals in B.C.

I would like to congratulate Yarmouth's Dylan Landry and the Nova Scotia under-17 provincial boys' basketball team and wish him continued success in the sport of basketball and all the best for what I am sure will be a very bright future.

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

AUCOIN, ANDRÃ?: DUKE OF ED. PROG. - COMMEND

[Page 298]

MS. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize André Aucoin, a bright and passionate student who is a model participant of the Duke of Edinburgh program.

André graduated from �cole du Carrefour in 2018, but while in school, he was interested in this program. When he realized that the program was not offered at his school, he took it upon himself to create a group.

André is a Gold Award Achiever of the Duke of Edinburgh program and in 2018 he was one of five Canadians to represent the program at the Canada Service Corps Summit.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all MLAs to join me in commending André for his determination and initiative to creating a Duke of Edinburgh program at his school.

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

RIDGEWOOD: DEDICATED VOLS. - COMMEND

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, Ridgewood is an assisted living home in the Town of Bridgewater which has almost 50 residents.

According to the facility's recreation and leisure coordinator Kat Foster Crouse, Ridgewood has an amazing core group of six dedicated volunteers who truly exemplify the facility's core values of love, respect, independence, and equality.

[1:45 p.m.]

Mabel Beaver, Marianne Derhak, Karen Corkum, Doug Gregor, Valerie Nauss, and Karen Wile are kind, compassionate volunteers. Residents know their friendly faces, appreciate their warm hugs, and enjoy a comfortable rapport with them. They laugh and joke with the residents but also provide comfort and a calming influence. At times, these volunteers experience a heart-wrenching loss of a resident - a friend - but they continue to put their hearts out there.

Mabel, Marianne, Karen, Doug, Valerie, and Karen take the time to really get to know the residents, including where they like to sit at the bingo hall and what card has their special lucky number. People in the community often comment on how Ridgewood feels like home, not "a home," and Kat feels that the volunteers help to make it that way. Their presence is irreplaceable; their knowledge remarkable.

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

JOHNNY MILES RUN: COM. VOLS. - CONGRATS.

[Page 299]

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, for 43 years, the Johnny Miles Running Event weekend has offered something for everyone. One of the longest-running annual events in Nova Scotia, it was started in 1975 by Dr. Johnny Miles Williston. If a person is interested in trying their first 5km or qualifying for the Boston Marathon, this is the weekend to do it.

The race is carried out on a mainly flat scenic loop course with many fans providing support and encouragement along the way and a finish line experience that runners will never forget. Hundreds of friendly and helpful volunteers go out of their way to make sure runners have an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Congratulations to Terry Curley, race director, and his army of volunteers for another fabulous job. Their efforts are the reason this weekend continues to be a great success.

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

RAI, YASHWANT: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to note the passing since our last session of an important leader in the Nova Scotia Indo-Canadian community.

Yashwant Rai arrived in Canada in May 1967. He first taught school for three years at Hebron, then later at Robert Borden Junior High and Cole Harbour High. In 1972, Mr. Rai - because that's what I always called him, Mr. Rai - helped to start the Hindu temple here in Halifax which gave members of his faith a place to worship.

In 1986, Mr. Rai retired from teaching, but he kept on educating. I can tell you that come election time, we'd visit Mr. Rai and he would bring members of his community together to ask us tough questions - to grill us. In recent years, that event has been passed on to another, but we always knew we wanted Mr. Rai on our side.

He was a lovely man full of gratitude to his fellow teachers, to the Hindu community, and to his family for their support and affection. Mr. Rai passed away in July at the age of 90. His beloved wife, Sushila, and his son, Rajan, predeceased him, but the rest of his family was with him in his final moments.

Our thoughts go to his children, Ashwani, Rama, Uma, and Anil and their families, and to his many friends. Mr. Rai will be sorely missed.

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

ALLEN, KINZA: ARROWSMITH PROG. - COMMEND

[Page 300]

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, anyone involved in education knows that not all students learn the same way. For students who require a different learning environment, programs like the Arrowsmith Program at Halifax Christian Academy can be the difference makers.

I rise today to recognize Dartmouth East resident Kinza Allen, Arrowsmith Program Director at Halifax Christian Academy. Kinza reached out to my office last winter to teach me about the Arrowsmith Program, and I was instantly intrigued.

Arrowsmith is a specialized program that works with students and adults who are diverse learners. It is a cognitive strengthening program that is based on the principles of neuroplasticity. Simply put, instead of giving students who struggle "compensations" to get their work done, this program uses exercises to strengthen their cognitive skills.

The greatest program in the world would be nothing without great educators to implement it, so I rise today to commend Kinza Allen for her work with this amazing program.

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

THOMAS, CHARLENE: BOOK, UNCONSCIOUS - BEST WISHES

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, Charlene Thomas grew up in Dominion, Cape Breton, and now lives in North River, Colchester North. She is the past president of the Colchester-East Hants Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, has been involved in helpline and palliative care services, and is the owner of Complete Counselling Services.

Charlene has been writing songs, stories, and poems since she was a young teen. She says she finds this writing an effective way of relieving stress. Her first book, Achieving Personal Power and Inner Calm, was published in 2014 and addresses the relationships between spiritual and mental health principles and practices.

Her latest work, and her first work of fiction, is entitled Unconscious. It tells the story of a young woman who suffers a concussion which sends her back in time to the time she was 13. The book not only describes her journey back to herself but challenges and invites the readers to make changes now.

Mr. Speaker, I ask members of the House of Assembly to join me in wishing Charlene continued success with her new novel.

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

MACQUEEN, CAITLYN/JOEL: WEDDING FUNDRAISER - THANKS

[Page 301]

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge a special Cape Breton couple. Caitlyn and Joel MacQueen's wedding last month turned into an impromptu fundraiser for the Cape Breton Regional Hospital's pediatrics TLC Fund, in honour of their niece, Molly. Molly was unable to take part in the wedding, due to her medical conditions.

The wedding raised $6,000 for the fund that Molly has benefited from in the past. Joel and Caitlyn are back in Calgary, but they hope that others may be inspired to take similar action to raise funds for the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation.

It is a special honour to thank and congratulate Caitlyn and Joel MacQueen for their generosity and to wish them a long and happy marriage.

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

BURGESS, CRAIG: BERWICK SPORTS HALL OF FAME - CONGRATS.

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I rise today to congratulate Craig Burgess on his induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame. Originally from Truro, Craig was raised in a family of curlers. A natural athlete, Craig won provincial championships in track and field competition and excelled at the sport of curling where he won provincial and national championships and the world juniors in 1998.

As the MLA for Kings West, I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Craig Burgess on his induction into the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame and thank him for his dedication to the sports community in Nova Scotia.

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

DAURY, RICHARD: AUTOBIOGRAPHY - INSPIRING

MS. KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the tremendous achievement of a man who was diagnosed with MS in his early 20s. When was 41, Richard Daury moved into Queens Manor in Liverpool, and at the age of 52 he is the youngest resident in this long-term care facility.

Over the past 10 years, instead of giving up on life, he has passed the time by writing his autobiography, recording memories of his early life in southwest Port Mouton and since his diagnosis.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Richard Daury who, despite numerous physical challenges, finally had his book officially released on July 11, 2018. His positive attitude to life truly is an inspiration.

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

[Page 302]

KEARNEY, RYAN: SPECIAL OLYMPICS FLAG BEARER - CONGRATS.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, this summer Antigonish had the privilege of hosting the 2018 Special Olympics National Summer Games. The opening ceremonies were held on July 31^stand it was an incredible and inspiring event. It was a sold-out crowd with tickets in high demand. Athletes from across the country entered the venue behind their provincial flag-bearer to enormous rounds of applause.

Team Nova Scotia was led by Antigonish's own Ryan Kearney. Ryan, who has been involved with Special Olympics since he was a little boy, was the perfect candidate to be selected as the flag-bearer for Team Nova Scotia. His sportsmanship and personality make him a great ambassador for Special Olympics and indeed, all of Nova Scotia.

Ryan is an avid golfer and was competing in golf on his home course, the Antigonish Golf and Country Club, in pursuit of his second national Special Olympics gold medal. While he didn't win gold, I have no doubt Ryan made many new friends and memories, including the moment he led his teammates into the opening ceremonies. It is a moment I am sure he will never forget because I know I won't.

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

FIVE ELEVEN YOUTH & FAM. CTR.: GRAND OPENING - BEST WISHES

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : I rise today to recognize newly-opened Five Eleven Youth and Family Centre in North Sydney. The Northside Kiwanis Club, along with the Canadian Tire Store, contributed a full complement of floor hockey equipment to the centre.

Thanks to community support, this organization will make a positive impact on the Northside. Plans are in the works for a full audio studio, robotics, soldering, crafting, visual arts, cinematography, and photography.

I'd like to take this opportunity to wish the Five Eleven Youth and Family Centre every success as they build their community and to thank everyone who has contributed to this important centre.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Preston-Dartmouth.

SAINT ANNE'S CHURCH: 50^thANNIV. - CONGRATS.

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize St. Anne's Church of Lake Echo on the occasion of their 50^thanniversary, celebrated on October 14, 2018. Archbishop Anthony Mancini will be participating in the church service and anniversary celebrations.

[Page 303]

The reception of the anniversary celebrations will be held at the Porters Lake Community Centre for both current and former members of the congregation. I applaud and congratulate St. Anne's Church on their 50^thanniversary and wish them continued success in the future of their active involvement in our communities.

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

LOUISDALE LIONS CLUB: 49^thANN. CHARTER NIGHT - CONGRATS.

MS. ALANA PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, May 26^th, members of the Louisdale Lions Club and guests from other community organizations and businesses gathered to celebrate their 49^thAnnual Charter Night.

During the evening, the service and commitment of Lions members to community was recognized. Awards and certificates were handed out to Lions members, community organizations, and businesses for their contributions and efforts to making their community a better place to live.

A Medal of Merit was presented to charter member Don Cornell for his 49-plus years of service to the community. Special awards were presented to three outstanding community builders: Evelyn Landry, Jean Marie Landry, and Hubert Kraitzek.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer a sincere thank you and congratulations to the Louisdale Lions Club and all Lions Clubs across Nova Scotia for their contributions to improving their communities.

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

MACPHEE'S COUNTRY STORE MUSEUM: COM. CONTRIB. - THANKS

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : Mr. Speaker, if you're travelling along Route 14 in Upper Rawdon, your eye will be drawn to a building that might make you think you have driven back in time.

The MacPhee's Country Store Museum opened its quaint doors two years ago thanks to Marvin and Alfreda MacPhee and their passion for memorabilia from days gone by. Twenty-eight years ago, they began collecting classic tin cans that you would have seen in your grandmother's pantry. They expanded their collection to pretty much everything that you would find in an old general store. When their basement was full, they built a museum.

Stepping inside makes you feel like you really have time travelled. Their efforts and love of bygone days are obvious and have delighted many visitors who are drawn to the whimsical appearance of the museum. Visitors experience a sense of nostalgia that keeps them lingering in wonder at things that they haven't seen in decades, like the Sears Wish Book.

[Page 304]

It is a treasure in our community, and I would like to offer our appreciation to Marvin and Alfreda MacPhee for their wonderful museum, which offers visitors a trip down memory lane.

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

BEACH CLEAN-UP: COM. BEAUTIFICATION - THANKS

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge the enormous impact the many groups volunteering to clean up our beaches have had on these sites. These initiatives, which are provided gloves and bags by the Great Nova Scotia Pick-Me-Up, ensure that our beaches will look their best for locals and visitors.

The Culloden Wharf Beach cleanup volunteers includes Mrs. Amirault's Options and Opportunities class, a class that participated in a few cleanups during the summer months. There was also a cleanup of the beach in Sandy Cove and in Gulliver's Cove in early June, the second organized by the Gulliver's Cove Trails Association.

The cleanups continued over the months of June and July in the Acacia Valley Trails as well as in Pond Cove, on Brier Island, Marshalltown, and others. The lifeguards at Mavilette beach even organized one at their beach after the summer beach season ended.

Nova Scotians care deeply about their beaches and public areas and that they are clean. In 2017, 9,600 people participated in 207 cleanups, filling over 11,400 garbage bags and 1,300 blue bags. I thank them all for their efforts.

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

BIRKINSHAW'S TEA ROOM: NTL. RECOG. - CONGRATS.

MS. ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I stand today to recognize Birkinshaw's Tea Room, in Amherst. The business is run by Adrian and Eleanor Bradbury.

They opened in Amherst in the last year and have already been recognized as one of the top 10 places in Canada to have afternoon tea. With Amherst being the entrance to Nova Scotia, having a new tea room receive national recognition will boost the local tourism industry.

Mr. Speaker, it's a true pleasure to have Adrian and Eleanor be part of Amherst business community and to help promote what our province has to offer. I ask all members to join me in congratulating Adrian and Eleanor on receiving this national recognition.

[Page 305]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

PRISMATIC ARTS FEST.: ORGANIZERS: CONGRATS.

HON. LABI KOUSOULIS « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the Prismatic Arts Festival, taking place now until September 16^th.

Prismatic is an arts festival that showcases the work of Canada's leading Indigenous artists. Now in its 10^thyear, the events vary from performing arts to media and literature. The festival also includes workshops, a national conference, and accessible performances. Prismatic is taking place across multiple venues in metro Halifax, and I encourage people to check it out.

I would also like to congratulate festival organizers on a decade of hard work and innovation with this festival.

MR. SPEAKER « » : We will now move on to Oral Questions Put by Members to Ministers.

[2:00 p.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM. - MEP: OUTSTANDING PMTS. - STATUS

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. This past May the Auditor General appeared before the Public Accounts Committee to discuss the Maintenance Enforcement Program. This program acts as a critical go-between for maintenance recipients and payers.

The program, according to the Auditor General, services 15,000 cases. Captured in those cases, though, are 13,000 children. The Auditor General found at the time of his audit that there was $63 million in uncollected maintenance payments.

Does the Premier know if any progress has been made in ensuring these recipients get the payments they are entitled to and what the outstanding balance is as of today?

THE PREMIER » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I want to assure her in the most recent budget we increased the support that we'll be working in maintenance enforcement to ensure that the money owing to children across this province is paid.

[Page 306]

We also worked with the national government to ensure the new justice bill included - a component of that justice bill was that if the worst happens and it goes to the court and that we believed if there was child maintenance as part of that, that all of the important information that we required, if someone wasn't paying that maintenance, would be submitted to the court, so that the custodial parent wouldn't have to be continually going back to the justice system to have orders enforced.

I want to be very clear that this money is owed to children across this province, and if the court orders you to pay it, we expect you to pay it.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : I'd like to thank the Premier for his answer. Obviously, recipients rely on these payments for day-to-day expenses, just like us. When these payments are delayed or never collected, there are real consequences, including Nova Scotians who end up on social assistance, unfortunately.

According to the Auditor General's findings, workers in maintenance enforcement face caseloads as high as 450 files each. No wonder so much money goes uncollected. Does the Premier believe that his government is dedicating sufficient resources to managing the Maintenance Enforcement Program?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, again I want to thank the honourable member for the question. We made additional investments into that program since the information the Auditor General is referring to.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : There are many more questions raised by the Auditor General. His report deserves greater examination and the department should answer for these findings.

The Public Accounts Committee shut down three weeks early this summer. Our caucus asked that those three weeks be filled with the issues raised in the Auditor General's Report. But the government used their majority on the Public Accounts Committee to block the witnesses and avoid the topics, and everyone started their vacation early.

I'd like to know, why should Nova Scotians trust that they will ever get any answers when this government directs its members to shut down the Public Accounts Committee early?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I want to tell her that this government in Public Accounts sits twice as much as the next province in the country. We continue to sit more than any other Canadian province, to be able to have the books open to the Auditor General - it's very clear. He comes in, he made recommendations around maintenance enforcement, and we're implementing those recommendations.

[Page 307]

On top of that, we've made investments to hire more people in that branch. Let me be very clear, this is not something that started in 2013, but we're the first government to actually make the investments and take this seriously because this money is owed to children. If the court says you owe it, we expect you to pay; if you don't, we're going to do everything we can to ensure that you do.

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

PREM. - GHG REDUCTIONS: PARIS DECLARATION (2030) - SUPPORT

MR. GARY BURRILL « » : Two weeks ago today, over two dozen community groups, environmental groups, businesses, and trade unions met to issue the 2030 declaration, a declaration which calls on the government to adopt greenhouse gas emission reduction targets of 50 per cent of 1990 levels, by 2030. This would bring us in Nova Scotia in alignment with our country's national commitments on the Paris agreement and it would place us at the forefront of GHG reductions in the entire country.

I want to re-express to the Premier the question that was asked two weeks ago: Will he support the 2030 declaration and the reduction of 50 per cent of 1990, by 2030?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I want to reassure him that we are continuing to do the good work that was provided by the former Minister of Environment from Kings North, a Minister of Environment who served in the New Democratic Party, and a number who have served in this Party, to continue to make sure Nova Scotia is a leader in the country. We are 30 per cent below 2005 levels now. We'll be on target to be near 50 per cent in 2030.

We're continuing to make adjustments. We're not saying that's good enough. We're going to continue to make improvements, whether it's our home adaptation programs, continuing to make sure we reduce our individual carbon footprint so that we are, and continue to be, the leader in Canada.

MR. BURRILL « » : Nothing about what the Premier has said changes the fact - and this is one of the great concerns of the signatories of the 2030 declaration - that we have stagnated on this. In fact, we are not moving forward but are moving backward in our commitments to climate change. We have the 2020 targets because these were part of the all-Party process the Premier has spoken about, of the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity legislation. But that legislation was to have been reviewed and renewed in 2017. It hasn't been and that leaves us today in the situation in Nova Scotia where we have no 2030 targets whatsoever.

[Page 308]

I want to ask the Premier « » : Why won't he commit to reaching the 2030 declaration level, the 50 per cent reduction of 1990, by 2030, as a part of the renewing and the reviewing of the EGSPA legislation?

THE PREMIER « » : There were two components of that piece of legislation. One was to continue to make sure that we continue to reduce our greenhouse gas production. Nova Scotians should be proud of the work they've been doing. We're leading the country. We'll be well on-target for the 2030 targets.

The other component of that was economic growth. We will continue to make sure that we protect the environment at the same time our economy is growing. We're making investments, more young people are choosing to stay in this province. We've bucked the trend that's happening outside. We see our population growing. We're seeing investments by the private sector. We're doing both. We're protecting the environment and growing the economy.

MR. BURRILL « » : This is exactly the point, growing the economy and economic growth. We know that today in Canada, there are more people working in renewable energy and in energy efficiency than in all of oil and gas, mining, and working the woods put together. We know that we have the evidence to show from the Green Economy Network that if we adopted the 2030 declaration, in Nova Scotia, we'd be able to create 30,000 person-years of work in the areas of sustainable transportation, renewable energy, and in energy efficiency.

I want to ask the Premier « » : Is he not concerned that by failing to adopt the target for 50 per cent below 1990, by 2030, that we are missing out on one of the real economic opportunities of our generation?

THE PREMIER « » : No, I believe we can do both. We are continuing to ensure we provide stability for those who are working in our economy today, that their jobs will be there for them tomorrow, while at the same time making investments in future opportunities while we're protecting the environment.

Many people throw out all these statistics, veering right or left. The fact of the matter is, this is a balanced approach. We continue to make sure that this province leads the country. Every political Party in this House should be proud of the work they started - under the former member for Kings North, who started this down the road, and all Parties supported it through successive elections. When Nova Scotians changed governments, we've continued down the path to ensure we stayed on target to reduce greenhouse gas. The difference is that our Party believes as we do that, we should provide economic opportunities for young Nova Scotians, for Nova Scotia, and we're seeing just that.

A balanced approach is providing good opportunities and, at the same time, protecting the environment.

[Page 309]

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

PREM. - VETERANS: WALK-IN CLINIC - SUPPORT

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : My question is for the Premier. In previous sessions, my colleagues and I have asked the Premier to commit to building a walk-in clinic for veterans, a walk-in clinic that understands the needs of our veterans and is set up specifically for them. It is an idea that is supported by the all-Party Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs and the Premier has, on multiple occasions, expressed his support for the idea.

However, he has said that he believes it is the responsibility of the federal government to provide such a clinic. Since the last sitting, has the Premier had the opportunity to raise this important issue with the Prime Minister or others in the federal government, and has there been a positive response?

THE PREMIER « » : Yes, I have had the opportunity to raise this issue with the national government. You should also know there is a facility in this city that is providing those services now that are being received by some veterans. We're looking at what is the best avenue to make sure we can provide a broader scope of services to those requiring PTSD support, and we look forward to that coming to a successful conclusion.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : In recent weeks, we have learned that Veterans Affairs Canada had agreed to pay for the PTSD treatment for Christopher Garnier. Christopher, as you may recall, developed PTSD after killing an off-duty police officer and disposing of her body in a compost bin.

Christopher Garnier himself has not served our country but receives the funding as a family member of a veteran. The Premier has already voiced his opposition to this funding, and he did so immediately and directly to the Minister of Veterans Affairs. I do commend him for doing that.

I do want to ask the Premier « » : In his conversations with the Minister of Veterans Affairs, did he ask that any new money that was coming here to Nova Scotia should go towards a veterans' walk-in clinic and not to a convicted police-killer?

THE PREMIER « » : What I have spoken to the minister about is what is the best way for the national government to pay for a service inside our province. Whether it is a new clinic or whether it does not support a clinic that is currently working that is providing services to not enough veterans.

What she is referring to, Mr. Speaker, when I spoke to the minister around this very issue about Mr. Garnier receiving support, we need to be very careful in the fact that family members of people who serve our country receive PTSD services from the fact of the service of the parent, and that's exactly what this was for.

[Page 310]

I believe that somebody made a mistake. I've made it very clear that I do not believe we should be paying for PTSD services for Mr. Garnier in our justice system. The justice system will deal with them. The services and supports that are there for all of those incarcerated should be provided to him. But the money that is inside of Veterans Affairs to cover services for veterans and their families should go directly to those who are impacted by the service of the loved one.

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

EECD: BUSING POLICIES - NO PLAN, EXPLAIN

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. For the past two weeks, I've been hearing from parents in Dartmouth North who are frustrated with the chaos and confusion around busing to and from our schools. Our amazing teachers and principals have gone above and beyond to support our children through this completely unacceptable situation. The minister has now promised a review, but he should never have allowed this situation to happen in the first place.

Mr. Speaker, can the minister please explain why he didn't ensure that there was a plan for busing before school started in September?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : We know a number of parents had some significant concerns related to bus timing. We've asked and directed the region to fix those immediate challenges so we're at about 98 per cent of our buses getting to and from school on time.

The amount of negative feedback coming into the region is slowing and MLAs are getting some positive feedback that their parents' case files are being dealt with in a timely manner. That shows me that there have been improvements made.

We are now able to take a look holistically, province-wide, on busing policies and practices to make sure that we're doing our very best from one end of the province to the next.

MS. LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, I have not yet received positive feedback from any parents. In fact, the calls to my office are ramping up with more complaints. Yesterday, I spoke with a group of parents who were waiting with their children for the bus. That particular bus was 10 minutes late yesterday, but the route is actually scheduled to arrive at the school five minutes after the bell.

The children on this route are automatically put at a disadvantage. They're rushing to get started in the morning, they're not able to play with their friends when they arrive, and when the bus is late, as it was yesterday, or in the winter when they have to deal with snowsuits or whatever, it will get worse.

[Page 311]

Mr. Speaker, does the minister really think it is acceptable that a school bus is scheduled so that these children are late for school every day?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I think every parent and student in this province has a right to expect on-time, safe, reliable, efficient busing service. We are committed to improving the service to better meet the needs of our students and communities. The governance changes that we've made in the system allow us to actually have a provincial view on this, to play a direct and active role on it. That's why we are taking action on these issues so that parents can expect better in the future.

[2:15 p.m.]

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

H&W - EMERG. ROOMS: AMBULANCE BACKUPS - RESPOND

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. Ambulances wait at the emergency department to offload patients because of overcrowding in emergency departments. According to the NSGEU Code Critical report, one nurse reported times where there were 14 ambulances backed up while paramedics waited with patients. When ambulances are waiting to offload patients at the emergency departments, ambulance coverage around the HRM suffers which can affect other areas of the province.

My question to the minister is: What is the plan to address the issue of ambulance gridlock across Nova Scotia emergency departments?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for bringing this question to the floor of the Legislature. I'm pleased to advise him and all members of the Legislature of the great work that's been done under the leadership at Dartmouth General Hospital emergency department, along with our partners at the EHS system. This was an initiative that they started about 10 months ago that changed the way that they offload ambulances at that hospital. They've seen very good success in improving the offload times and there's work ongoing with the NSHA and their partners at EHS to look at ways to validate the results that they've been seeing on the ground and move it out to other sites.

MR. ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, the situation has gotten so bad that the union representing Nova Scotia paramedics has been tweeting for five months using #codecritical to raise awareness about ambulance availability. There have been reports in some instances within a province where it has taken up to two hours for an ambulance to arrive at the scene. The ambulance system is in disarray and paramedics are asking for the minister's help because their members are getting fatigued.

[Page 312]

My question to the minister is: Why have you not answered the union who represents Nova Scotia paramedics when they call for a summit with other health care partners so Nova Scotians can receive the service they deserve?

MR. SPEAKER « » : I'd just like to remind the honourable member to keep his questions directed through the Chair.

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

MR. DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to report to my colleagues through you, that, in fact, I've met with front-line health care workers including paramedics. I believe there was a member of the New Democratic Party that suggested perhaps I'd go out and do a tour with some paramedics - I did that this spring where I was able to go out and see paramedics firsthand in hospitals waiting with offload. I had that opportunity both at the Halifax Infirmary and Dartmouth General Hospital as well as other paramedics. I've spoken to unions. I've gotten the feedback and the information as I've mentioned in my first response. Work is under way to address these issues.

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

TIR: HIGHWAY CONDITIONS - IMPROVE

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. In what may be the least shocking report ever released, Statistics Canada has said that the roads in Nova Scotia are in terrible shape.

The data was collected from 1,500 government organizations across Canada and the numbers are as jarring as the potholes are here in Nova Scotia: 49 per cent of Nova Scotia's highways are rated as poor or very poor whereas the Canadian average is 17.1 per cent. Now, I want to say that again: the Canadian average is 17.1 per cent and in Nova Scotia, it is almost triple that figure.

My question to the minister is: Will the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal please explain how it came to be that half of our highways would be rated so poorly?

HON. LLOYD HINES » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for the question. First of all, I want to publicly thank the over 2,200 people who are employed by our department who are working hard to preserve the safety of the roads in Nova Scotia, not counting the thousands of Nova Scotians who are employed by the contactors who go out daily to fix and repair these roads.

[Page 313]

Safety is our top priority in the department. We have 23,000 kilometers of roads. Because we are such an old province and because our roads have evolved with us as we've been populated over the last 400 years, we have special challenges to preserve that network for all our citizens in every part of our province.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Well, Mr. Speaker, the minister is right. The men and women who do work on our highways are fantastic individuals, but they can only do with what they have been given and they haven't been given enough to do the work they need to do. The way that this government operates, tomorrow we'll probably read a press release congratulating the government for making the repair industry in the auto section a success because of all the bad accidents they've had on these poor roads.

I'll go back to the report from Statistics Canada: 49 per cent of the highways, 43 per cent of the arteries, and 39 per cent of the collector roads are rated as poor or very poor. The odds of driving on a safe road shouldn't be the same as the odds of a coin flip.

Can the minister explain why Nova Scotians should trust that there is any chance of our highways improving?

MR. HINES « » : I thank the member for the question, particularly his comment about the commitment of this government to our budget - $285 million in capital projects this year, up $60 million. The third highest budget in the proud history of this province - $60 million dedicated to improving the safety of our highways to our twinning program and the improvement of our bridges, which continues every day.

We are very proud of our road system in Nova Scotia and the commitment of this government to improve it, make it safe, and make it better for all Nova Scotians.

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

H&W: AED REGISTRY - UPDATE

MR. KEITH BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I think all members of this House appreciate how vital AEDs - automatic external defibrillators - are to saving lives. These machines are portable, battery operated, and almost anyone can use them. Statistics show that most AEDs you see will never be used, but the problem comes when an AED is needed and cannot be seen.

We all know about the tragic death of Michael Fowlie. A life-saving AED was only 700 metres from where he collapsed. By some estimates, there are more than 1,000 AEDs in our province, but only about half of them are on the provincial registry.

My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness: Can the minister update the House on what action he is taking to make sure the registry is accurate?

[Page 314]

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, the member is right, we did implement a registry last year to track the AED systems within our province. I encourage all Nova Scotians, if they are aware of an AED in their community, to either contact or advise the owners of the AED of the registry so that they can encourage them to contact. It's something I do and it's something that I encourage others to do. Every member of this Legislature can do that within their own communities. Let the people know that this registry now exists. It wouldn't have necessarily been there when they purchased their AED.

The other thing that is important is that work is ongoing to integrate with the 911 system so that we can provide that integration and deliver the information, but that takes a computer system upgrade. That work, too, is ongoing.

MR. BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, yes, even if the registry was up to date, EHS dispatch is not able to tell callers the location of the nearest AED, and I will table a Global story to that effect.

I know there are plans to fully integrate the system to include telling callers the locations. If that integration hasn't happened, it's vital that it be done immediately. If it has happened, it hasn't been well communicated. It's a simple step that without a question will save lives.

Can the minister tell the House when the registry will be integrated with the EHS and commit to a public education program?

MR. DELOREY « » : Again, I do thank the member for bringing this topic to the floor of the Legislature. It is a great opportunity to bring awareness to all the members here. I encourage all members to go back to their communities and spread the word as well.

We have encouraged and taken steps to let people know about the registry. Again, it is being administered online where people can register, I believe, as well. The work, though, for us to do the integration is ongoing. I don't have a date for when that integration will be done, but we'll be sure to let all Nova Scotians know.

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

EECD: SCHOOL BUSING REVIEW - UPDATE

MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education and Early Child Development.

In 2014, the Nova Scotia School Board Association asked the department to review the rules around school busing and provide adequate funding for transportation of students to and from school. In 2017, the same request came from the Halifax Regional School Board. Now, with no school boards, after two weeks of stories of students being stranded and families scrambling to fill the gaps, the minister has finally said he will conduct a review.

[Page 315]

We look forward to seeing the results of that review, but why has the minister dragged his feet for years on finding a solution to this problem?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : We have had an ambitious agenda for the transformation of our education system. We have made significant changes in the governance of our system and the administration of our system.

The issues that people have told us in this Chamber and in our communities that were most urgent were behavioural supports for our system. That was the focus of our first year in office, bringing in a new pre-Primary program so that every single four-year-old in this province has access to critical early learning, expanding our child care sector. It's funny - every time we have moved quickly and ambitiously on these projects, the Opposition Parties have told us to slow down, that we're being reckless.

The fact is that we can't do everything at one time. We had a plan this year to review busing and to review funding formulas and guidance counsellor ratios. That work is going to be ongoing for this year. I expect to have improvements in every single one of those areas.

MS. CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, with respect, the School Board Association submitted this request four years ago, long before the litany of changes that were just rattled off were ever even conceived.

Wayne MacKay, a Dalhousie University law professor who has authored books on laws governing Canadian education, was recently quoted as saying the busing issue could easily be resolved or more easily dealt with if we still had a school board structure. The removal of that level of representation and democracy comes at a certain price, and I'll table that.

The department has said the review will look at policies and practices, but what about listening to parents? Will the minister explain how he will consult with students and parents, like the ones who have been flooding my office, as he tries to fix the situation around school busing?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : I know that the members opposite have defended the status quo in our education system. They have defended the previous governance structure that three independent reports indicated was creating a situation where student achievement varied from . . . . (Interruptions)

[Page 316]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development has the floor.

MR. CHURCHILL « » : That system that the members opposite defend resulted in a situation where, depending on where you went to school in this province, your chances of succeeding varied. Three independent reports told us that governance and administration was a problem. That's why we acted - because we think we need to do better for our students.

While the members opposite defend the special interest that we have taken on on this journey, we will stand firmly behind the students and their success.

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

BUS. - RURAL INTERNET: PROG. STATUS - EXPLAIN

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : My question is for the Minister of Business. Many of my constituents and many Nova Scotians are anxiously awaiting improved rural Internet service.

I understand that the government has split the program into two parts. They have a trust which will fund Internet improvements, and they have a reconstituted company which is going to oversee the deployment.

I have heard that the cost across the province could be $300 million to $500 million. I understand the initial seed funding in the trust in March was $120 million. I just wonder if the minister could clarify if that trust is still at $120 million, or if more money has been put into that trust or maybe even been spent so far.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Of course, this is a program and a project and an initiative that we're very proud of on this side of the House. We're embarking on an unprecedented level of spending per capita within the federation for broadband and Internet connectivity for all of our citizens. The number in the Internet trust now stands at $193 million.

What the Internet Trust will do is hold that money within the confines of its mandate. Develop Nova Scotia will bring forward projects and initiatives on behalf of municipalities, communities, and ISPs that are working with communities across the province in strategic areas that require satellite, wireless, or hard-wired fibre optic cable - known as the middle mile - and of course the last mile.

This is the work that's ongoing now - Develop Nova Scotia sets up these projects, the Internet trust reviews them and makes a final decision. Again, the number at this point is $193 million.

[Page 317]

MR. HOUSTON « » : I thank the minister for updating the House with that number of $193 million.

I just wonder if the minister can give us a little bit of a timeline on when the actual deployments would start. The money's there now, and now the process will actually start to unfold. I wonder if the minister could give us some indication so I can tell the people in Pictou East who are waiting for improvements to rural Internet when they may expect to see some of those.

[2:30 p.m.]

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I again thank the member for the question. I did want to go back to something I missed in the first question. The number that Brightstar identified for Nova Scotia was at a maximum level, that a peak would be $500 million. With that $193 million leverage with federal dollars of course and the private sector, which will play a role here, this initial investment by itself will get us a good way along to 95 per cent access and connectivity for all Nova Scotians that have been identified there.

Because of the nature of this program and the fact that it is uncharted water for any province within the country, Develop Nova Scotia is building the foundation from the ground up. How we're going to do it, how we're going to work with communities, what recommendations we're going to take forward is critical to get it right. They are doing that work now, they are doing consultations across the province.

We certainly hope the money will be out flowing and flowing in a significant way by late fall.

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

H&W - ROSEWAY HOSP.: FULL SERVICE - COMMIT

MS. KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. My office can barely keep up with calls from constituents who are concerned about how this government is undermining health care at the Roseway Hospital. Time and time again, I've brought legitimate concerns to the floor of the Legislature only to be given the same old non-committal responses by this Minister of Health and Wellness.

Just a few days ago I rose in this House to ask the minister specifically about the future of Roseway Hospital. He has deferred, he has talked around the issue and he has been vague.

My question to the minister is pretty simple: Will he give me his word today that for as long as he is the Minister of Health and Wellness, the Roseway Hospital will remain an open, full-service hospital? A simple yes or no is all I'm looking for.

[Page 318]

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for bringing this question forward. As I've said before, my mandate is quite clear to all Nova Scotians, my responsibility is to ensure that we assess and work with our partners to develop the appropriate care initiatives and services for primary care and acute care throughout the province.

Mr. Speaker, we work with our front-line partners in health care to do that. We've seen investments and expansion in investments for physicians, for nurse practitioners, to help with the primary care access across this province. We've listened to front-line workers who have made these investments and we'll continue to do that.

MS. MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, we all know the Minister of Health and Wellness' mandate, that's why I keep asking the questions. The minister claims to work and make his decision based on the information that comes to his attention in the best interests of Nova Scotians. It's not in the best interests of my constituents who don't have a family doctor, it's not in the best interests of my constituents who have to travel 12 to 14 hours or sit 12 to 14 hours in an ER because theirs is not open. It's not in the best interests of my constituents who have to have their lab work tested at another hospital.

My question to the minister is: Will he leave his office tower in Halifax and join the current concerned residents in Shelburne County at the People over Politics rally on September 22^nd? Let's try this again, Mr. Speaker, a simple yes or no is all I'm looking for for the constituents of Shelburne.

MR. DELOREY « » : Again, for the member, when I was in Shelburne, I met, toured the Roseway facility, saw the start of the construction of the clinic that's being built there in the community to help with primary care access. That work is ongoing.

I was advised that they have more family physicians in that community than they have had in decades, that the work that we continue to invest in for communities like Shelburne and across the province will continue.

We continue to work with our partners at the Nova Scotia Health Authority and communities across this province to demonstrate the attractive opportunities to provide primary care throughout this province.

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

EECD: PRE-PRIMARY CATCHMENT AREAS - FLEXIBILITY

[Page 319]

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. Last year the Official Opposition called on the government to slow down and delay pre-Primary by one year to ensure the program was properly and fairly implemented.

As the minister knows, the rush to roll out pre-Primary has resulted in issues like access to playground equipment, as well as enrolment challenges. I have a constituent who wishes to enroll her child at Admiral Westphal Elementary where there are only four enrolled in the pre-Primary classes out of a possible 24. My colleague from Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage has a similar situation. There is room for 20 more students but the rules governing catchment areas are preventing this family from accessing pre-Primary.

Interesting, Mr. Speaker, the minister just indicated to this House that every four-year old will have access to pre-Primary. Is the minister prepared to follow common sense and allow flexibility within the rules governing pre-Primary catchment areas?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The member actually speaks to the biggest challenge we're having with the rollout of pre-Primary and that's keeping up with the demand that we have in our communities. There's been a number of these cases that have come forward where parents want their kids to access pre-Primary outside of catchment. We do have to treat everybody equally. We do have to have some logic applied to the situation so that we can broaden this reach as far as possible.

We're looking at the out-of-catchment policy right now and I hope to have some answers for the member and for all those who are trying to access this program, who want us to move more quickly with it, by the end of the month.

MR. HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to remind the minister that the purpose of policy and procedure is to create a sense of fairness, to create a sense of equality of opportunity, not to defy common sense. Sometimes taking common sense and flexibility from a situation like this is resulting in enormous frustration for my constituents. And because of a lack of consideration, families are missing out on an educational opportunity, and the pre-Primary program at Admiral Westphal Elementary is nowhere near capacity. This government is excluding students because of poor planning.

Will the minister allow school principals and the Regional Education Centres the same flexibility with pre-Primary as they do for Primary to Grade 12?

MR. CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, thank you very much for the question. We are working on a policy so that out-of-catchment cases and requests can be treated fairly and equally all across the province. We will do our very best to keep up with demand as Nova Scotians express it but the irony - that that member now is challenging us on increasing the access to this program, a program that he, that Party, voted against and opposed; one of the leadership candidates said they would get rid of it if they were Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development - I hope is not lost on this House or the member of that member's community.

[Page 320]

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

FISH. & AQUACULTURE - CLIMATE CHANGE: RISKS - ADDRESS

MS. LISA ROBERTS « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. Rising sea levels and more frequent storms are already impacting our wharves and coastal infrastructure. Last month, a warm-water tiger shark was caught off our shores for the first time ever and the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture is reporting that ocean temperatures in Atlantic Canada are two to three degrees higher than average. At the same time, fisheries to the south of us are predicting declining lobster stocks as temperatures rise even further.

So, my question for the minister is: What is he doing to make sure this government is addressing the risks that climate change poses to our fisheries?

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Thank you very much. I'd like to thank the member for her question. It's a serious concern for us and catches in the lobster industry in Maine have gotten smaller and also there's more soft-shelled lobsters. It's something we're watching. We're looking at different areas for harvesting fish and different approaches. As time goes on, it's a slow process of climate change and we're working with the industry to address it.

MS. ROBERTS « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you to the minister for that answer. This summer the Cape Sharp Tidal turbine spun for six weeks in the Minas Passage without fish kill monitoring equipment in place. It was in violation of its environmental assessment, but this government had no plan for bringing it back into compliance. For years, fishers have expressed concerns about the impact of tidal turbines and this regulatory failure has done nothing to reassure them. Does the minister think this regulatory failure by the Department of Environment is acceptable?

MR. COLWELL « » : I refer that to the Minster for Energy and Mines.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the member for the question. I would update the House that we've been working with partners of the Cape Sharp turbine. We've made it quite clear to them that they need to get back into compliance, that they needed to work together to ensure that monitoring was put back in place. The staff is on the grid now; partners are working together to monitor the turbine and I'm confident the process is moving forward.

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

[Page 321]

H&W - CBRM: HEALTH CARE PLAN - UPDATE

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. Many of the people who are my constituents use the Glace Bay Hospital as their ER area and, this summer, the Premier and the Minister of Health and Wellness came to CBRM to announce improvements to the ER in Glace Bay. Now, after that announcement, the emergency room in Glace Bay was closed over 350 hours from July 29^thto August 14^th. That's 350 hours out of a possible 408 and that is one of the area hospitals that this government says is staying open. With this crisis in health care in this province, people in my area wonder where will they turn when an emergency arises.

So, the question for the minister through you is: Will the minister please update the House when his plan for the future of health care in CBRM will be available so that the people of the area know where to turn in an emergency?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the member acknowledging the investments that we announced for the Cape Breton region, including investments in New Waterford, Northside, Cape Breton, in Sydney, and in Glace Bay.

With respect to the emergency room specifically as I mentioned yesterday in my remarks during debate, Dr. Chris Milburn, who is an emergency room physician in Cape Breton, acknowledged that these investments in modernizing and expanding ER departments in Sydney and Glace Bay will, in fact, have a positive effect on both recruitment and retention of physicians providing emergency room services. That's what this investment is about is actually the long-term care investment into the future of health care for the residents of Cape Breton.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Well, it's beyond me, Mr. Speaker, how anybody can say closing hospitals is an investment. A quick check of the Nova Scotia Health Authority shows the need of three full-time family physicians in Glace Bay and countless others throughout CBRM. Deliverables for these physicians include running family practice office, clinics, providing call coverage, caring for in-patients at the Glace Bay Hospital. Opportunity is available to work in the emergency room, provide obstetrical care, or assist in the OR.

My question to the minister is quite simple. Can the minister explain to the good people of the CBRM how only three people can possibly provide quality, timely care to patients when the demands on these positions are so great?

MR. DELOREY « » : I want to recognize, of course, the great work of all of our primary health care professionals and professionals providing care to Nova Scotians throughout the health care system. The positions that the member cited are available. I want to encourage them and communities. We know that communities like Cumberland, down in the Digby area are coming together to demonstrate the value. I know, last year, Cape Breton came together to launch a video to help promote the region.

[Page 322]

I encourage the member to support those initiatives to highlight just how great it is to work in Cape Breton just like other communities are doing across this province because Nova Scotia is a great place to work. For physicians, our recruitment incentives are competitive and I encourage everyone to support the initiatives of the Nova Scotia Health Authority as they recruit health care professionals to provide care to all Nova Scotians.

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

TIR - CUMB. S. BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION: DELAYS - EXPLAIN

MR. TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. In the lead-up to a byelection, this government announced two major infrastructure projects for Cumberland South. On April 17^th, it was reported that the province would replace a closed bridge over the Nappan River. When he made the announcement, the minister said he expected construction to begin during this construction season to be completed in 2019.

Yesterday, I received a letter from the minister saying the department expects to prepare a tender so that construction can begin in the 2019-20 construction season. I will table that letter. Will the minister explain what unforeseen issues are delaying the construction of this bridge a full year?

[2:45 p.m.]

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, as the member may be aware, the bridge in question was advanced considerably to meet the demands that are in the area there and, as a matter of fact, we did quite a bit of work for the abutment so it would be in a good position to get the bridge constructed. The bridge process in the province involves making sure we get good design, that we get safe design.

I can assure the member that that particular replacement is at the top of the list for us in terms of what we're going to do and will be absolutely completed in the 2019 season.

MR. RUSHTON « » : I'm not sure what the unforeseen circumstances are yet, but until the bridge is built, the residents are forced to take a detour around that route. The detour also diverts traffic onto a road that is not acceptable for this volume of traffic. This can only lead to a deterioration of yet more roads in this area - a substitute to today's problem will be tomorrow's problem.

Will the minister update the House on exactly when motorists in Cumberland County can expect to drive on a new Rainbow Bridge?

MR. HINES « » : I understand the inconvenience that causes in the community and we certainly apologize for that. However, our bridge replacement process means that we do it and we get it right. This is a significant structure, we want to make sure we have the right design in there to that so it will last for an additional 75 years, as long as the previous one did.

[Page 323]

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

TIR: HWY. BRUSH CLEARING - RESPONSIBILITY

MS. ALANA PAON « » : Over the summer I received numerous complaints from constituents about an exorbitant amount of weeds and brush growing along the roadsides in Cape Breton-Richmond, along the highways. It was so severe in some areas, actually, that two pedestrians were almost hit by vehicles.

The brush and weeds are more than just an eyesore for residents and visitors, it's actually interfering with mobility and visibility for vehicles and pedestrians.

The department has brush-cutting and mowing guidelines that include visibility of traffic signs and passing clearances for vehicles, but I'm concerned that pedestrian mobility is not a priority. I'll table those documents.

Mr. Speaker, could the minister please confirm that his department is obligated to clear highway brush to ensure pedestrian mobility and not simply vehicle mobility?

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Yes, this province is subject to robust vegetation growth which on one side could be a blessing in many instances. However, this government in the previous budget committed additional funds of over $2 million to brush cutting and vegetation control on our highway system. I'm very happy to say that that is showing results across the province.

MS. PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, as far as the robust vegetation growth, I can assure you that it's not being dealt with properly in my constituency. The situation might be less critical in my constituency if TIR had sufficient resources in our area. I understand that the department has only one mower available for three counties, it's absolutely ridiculous. When that mower inevitably breaks, the weeds and the brush don't stop growing, as the minister has pointed out. There's no backup, there's no plan B, and also there's basically a backlog in the system.

Mr. Speaker, this is more than simply beautification. My constituency has a very high population of seniors and mobility is important to their livelihood as well as their health. Could the minister please commit today to the acquisition of another mower for Cape Breton-Richmond and the surrounding counties?

MR. HINES « » : I thank the member opposite for the question. The commitment we have made to increasing the availability of equipment for mowing is evident. We are deploying more brush cutting, I think we got more brush cutting done in this season than we had for many years. It's our intention to continue that, not only in the member's constituency because the grass grows everywhere in Nova Scotia and we're going to cut it everywhere.

[Page 324]

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

COM. SERV.: WOOD ST. CTR. - CARE CONCERNS

MS. SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, earlier this week I questioned the Minister of Community Services about the Wood Street Centre. A legal aid lawyer representing a young person held in the Waterville youth jail told a reporter that his client was offered a deal, she was told that she could sign a form promising good behaviour and be released, but she refused to sign the document because she believed that her social worker would then send her to the Wood Street Centre. This young woman chose jail over Wood Street Centre.

I want to believe the minister when she says the safety of the children in her care is of the utmost importance, but I'm not confident that they meet the standard when children would prefer to be in jail.

Is the minister confident that children at Wood Street are receiving the therapeutic services they need?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member for her question and I would . . .

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

We'll now move on to the order of business, Government Business.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

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

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Government Motions.

GOVERNMENT MOTIONS

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

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Resolution No. 46.

[Page 325]

Res. No. 46, re Election of Deputy Speaker - Proceed - notice given Sep. 11/18 - (Hon. G. MacLellan)

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

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on July 5, 2018, the honourable member for Hants West was appointed to the Executive Council and resigned his position as Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly; and

Whereas pursuant to Rule 11 of the Rules and Forms of Procedure of this House, Deputy Speakers are to be elected by the House in the same manner as the Speaker; and

Whereas it is desirable to elect a second Deputy Speaker as a result of the resignation of July 5, 2018;

Therefore be it resolved that the Speaker preside over the election by the honourable members of the House of Assembly of a Deputy Speaker and Chairman of Committees forthwith.

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the Government House Leader for bringing this resolution forward. Of course, we need to have backup for you, Mr. Speaker. We wouldn't expect you, if we're filibustering something, to spend all that time in the Chair. You do need a number of good backers in this.

What I will say is this. It had been previous practice in this House of Assembly that the Deputy Speaker position was shared amongst the caucuses, so that we make sure that the independence of these things continues along, that each caucus has the opportunity to nominate someone to that position, and to share it amongst the three caucuses. That has been, and had been, a long-standing tradition in the House of Assembly.

For many years did we enjoy that because there's not just the Chair that you reside, that you spend time in, Mr. Speaker, but there's also the chairperson of the different committees. Sometimes those committees can get long, as well, and they need backup. I will be nominating someone in a moment, but just to speak of that person differently; that person had already been a Speaker in this House of Assembly for a number of years, is very well-versed in the practices and traditions of this House of Assembly and can represent fairly and without reservation. Which is why we urge the Premier - because I know he's going to make a nomination in a moment - to consider it had been a tradition until, of course, this Liberal Government took power a number of years ago.

[Page 326]

With those short words, I plead with the Premier again in saying that he - in the gallery and outside - has said that he wants to work with Opposition Parties, wants to be transparent with the things that happen in this House of Assembly. I suggest that it should start right here with the nomination of all parties to participate in Deputy Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Would all those in favour of the motion, say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

I will now accept nominations for the position of Deputy Speaker.

The honorable Premier.

THE PREMIER « » : This is the third time, Mr. Speaker. I'll get it right this time.

Mr. Speaker, I nominate the member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Does the member for Halifax Atlantic accept the nomination?

MR. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : I do, thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Are there any further nominations.

The honourable Official Opposition House Leader.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : I would like to nominate the member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Does the honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg accept the nomination?

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : I do, Mr. Speaker, and I have my stump speech ready.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Are there any further nominations?

The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

MR. GARY BURRILL « » : Yes, Mr. Speaker. I wish to place a nomination the name of the member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Does the honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River accept the nomination?

[Page 327]

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : I do.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Are there any further nominations?

Hearing no further nominations, the Clerk will now conduct the election for the position of Deputy Speaker. The Clerks will distribute ballots to each member. You will write the name of your chosen Deputy Speaker and the Clerks will collect it in the official receptacle.

The members will place the name of the nominee on the ballot.

While the Clerk is collecting the ballots, I'll remind the House Leaders that they are invited to join the Clerks outside of the Chamber for the counting of the ballots.

[2:57 p.m. The House recessed.]

[3:07 p.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The Clerk will now read the results of the election of Deputy Speaker.

THE CLERK » : The House has elected as Deputy Speaker the member for Halifax Atlantic.

MR. SPEAKER « » : I declare the member for Halifax Atlantic elected as Deputy Speaker.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East on an introduction.

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction. In the west gallery we have two amazing young Nova Scotians who care deeply about their community.

Riley Hill-Pettipas is heavily involved in politics. I know he cares deeply about the future of our province. Please give a warm welcome to Riley Hill-Pettipas. (Applause)

Also in the west gallery, we have a former student of mine who served as the Prime Minister in the Model Parliament at Prince Andrew High School, back in 2014, I believe. He is a great resident of Dartmouth. He is the president of the Dartmouth South PC Association, president of the Saint Mary's University Tories, and vice-president of the Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Conservative Association. Not bad at all. Please welcome Tristan Shaw. (Applause)

[Page 328]

[GOVERNMENT BUSINESS]

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

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Second Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING

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

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 10.

Bill No. 10 - Liquor Control Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased today to rise to move second reading of Bill No. 10.

Yesterday I introduced amendments to the Liquor Control Act that will reduce red tape for businesses and for the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation when they want to set up establishments that manufacture and sell alcohol to Nova Scotia communities.

Currently, Mr. Speaker, there are two situations when a plebiscite is required to be held before a business can move forward in a dry community: (1) when the business manufactures or sells alcohol; or (2) when the NSLC wants to open in a dry community, those where the sale of alcohol is restricted. The requirement extends back to Prohibition and has become outdated. Nova Scotia is the last jurisdiction in Canada that requires plebiscites, which can be costly and add months to the time it takes to obtain the licences and permits required to open a business.

In addition, with changing municipal borders and varying requirements for plebiscites in communities, navigating the landscape has become very challenging for emerging businesses. The amendments will eliminate the requirement for a plebiscite to be held prior to a business manufacturing or selling; requirements to obtain licences and permits and to follow municipal zoning bylaws remain unchanged.

Two consultations were held with the municipalities and policing authorities - one in 2015, one in 2016, by Service Nova Scotia. Most did not respond to the request for input. In fact, of the 65 letters requesting outreach, only 20 responses were received and the majority of those were asking for no change or were neutral.

[Page 329]

However, we recognize there may be communities that feel strongly about now having alcohol permitted in certain areas, so I encourage them to work with their municipalities to create additional zoning bylaws if necessary, which is the process that now exists in every other jurisdiction across Canada.

This change that we are proposing today would come into effect on January 1, 2019 and the purpose of that is to give communities and municipalities time to explore whether there is a need for any additional zoning bylaws.

In conclusion, this change will allow businesses to better plan and make timely decisions when opening a new establishment and it will shorten the time to get the appropriate licence or the permit. These amendments will bring Nova Scotia in line with all other provinces as it is the last jurisdiction in Canada to have liquor plebiscite requirements.

Mr. Speaker, with those remarks I will await the comments from Opposition members and look forward to their support.

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to stand for a few moments and speak to this bill and, quite honestly, since we did start talking about this back in 2015 I kind of almost forgot about it, I thought it was already done but here we are with the legislation that's before us to actually do it.

There's only a couple of caveats that I see here and I know there has been some recognition that if communities still feel that they want to remain a dry community, that they of course can petition their municipality and they can make a bylaw as such. I do know there's going to maybe be some challenges among some of those communities. The best example I have would be the community of Woods Harbour, Shag Harbour, those areas in my constituency which happen to be dry communities. I know there's a number of church organizations that are going to have a little bit of trouble with this, but again it's good to know there is provision in there that the municipalities can push this forward.

On the positive side of it, there are a number of locations that would be great in the Woods Harbour area, by the way, for an agency store, so if the minister is thinking about moving forward on some of those, I think it's a good idea. Anthony's Food Market would be the one I would suggest. It's a good place and of course the owner has been trying for a number of years to get the department to come forward with an agency store for that area. So this takes one of those roadblocks out of the way.

I do hope again, as we roll around, many of these communities, our burgeoning craft beer industry, have the opportunity to do that. I take Tusket Falls Brewery in my constituency, just my neighbouring constituency in Yarmouth where the member for Yarmouth is, Heritage Brewery. I think that's one of only three in that community, so there's a lot of opportunity, a lot of growth within that community of brewers and it takes people home.

[Page 330]

[3:15 p.m.]

In a heritage example, a number of interested community members - actually, educators - and people got together and set up a brewery in Yarmouth. In my constituency, in Tusket Falls, there was actually a couple and some friends from out West. They're originally from the area, moved out West to work, and they came back and set themselves up in the community of Tusket, not so far from my constituency office, which probably is not the greatest idea, but I get to walk over there and check out their product. But if this would have been in a dry community, they would have had a number of hurdles to go through in order to have that happen. This does take that administrative hurdle out of the way. We become a wet province and only municipalities are able to put some kind of prohibition on alcohol sales in their own communities, if so wished.

With this, I think this is a good move forward and we look forward to supporting this as it goes through the process.

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

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm glad that the government has taken the steps to bring our legislation in line with other jurisdictions, other provinces around our country. I hope that these changes do meet the needs of our municipalities across the province.

I also respect and understand that there may be those organizations, groups, individuals within our communities that do want to continue on or have the opportunity to advocate for maybe a dry community, that there is an avenue for that through the municipalities around the province. This legislation is not limiting or not allowing that to happen.

We look forward to hearing anybody who might have concerns on this piece of legislation at the Law Amendments Committee, and we look forward to it going through the process.

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

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, I do want to thank the members opposite for their comments and I do want to speak just briefly to something that was mentioned by the member for Argyle-Barrington. It had to do with the growth of breweries and wineries across Nova Scotia, in particular rural Nova Scotia. It is a growing industry. We want to make sure that following the proper procedures that they are able to establish their business without a lot of red tape or without a lot of time delay in order for a plebiscite.

[Page 331]

The last number of plebiscites that have been held, the voter turnout was between 10 per cent and 30 per cent, which tells you that there's not much interest in getting out to take part in that plebiscite, as I said, in order to facilitate the businesses that want to open those wineries or breweries, or for the business that wants to build a lounge or a beverage room or whatever, that they have the ability to do that.

I do want to also comment on the member for Sackville-Cobequid, and that was in reference to the Law Amendments Committee and we see here the time for implementation to be January 2019. That's to give that period of at least three months for communities to listen to this and to determine what they next want to do with respect to their municipalities and also the opportunity provided to them at Law Amendments Committee. We believe that giving that three-month period there for Law Amendments Committee and/or anything else that can happen within a community with their municipality, we do want to make sure that people have that opportunity.

With those few remarks, I appreciate the support from the Opposition Parties and I close debate on second reading of Bill No. 10.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 10. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that this bill be referred to the Committee on Law Amendments.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 13.

Bill No. 13 - Day Care Act.

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

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 13, amendments to the Day Care Act, now be read a second time.

I'm very pleased to be in the House today to speak about the small but important changes to our Day Care Act. We have a vision for early learning in this province. These changes fit importantly within a vision that ensures safe, high-quality programming for children and families who choose to access them from one end of the province to the other. While many of these amendments are considered routine and are related to modernizing the language within the Act, there are significant impacts associated with the amendments that I do want to draw to the attention of the House.

[Page 332]

First, we are looking to change the name of the Act. We want the Day Care Act, moving forward to be called the Early Learning and Child Care Act. This is a name that better reflects the inclusivity of our programming and the breadth of the services that we do provide under the jurisdiction of this legislation. It also aligns with our commitment to ensuring quality, nurturing, and inclusive learning environments for our children. From regular child care settings to pre-Primary to approved family home child care settings, we have varied early learning opportunities to meet the unique needs of each and every family and community in this province.

The most important amendment we are proposing is to enhance the regulatory authority of the department for family home care programs. Family home child care agencies, licensed by the province, over the years have provided support, oversight, and inspection services to family home child care programs.

These proposed amendments will give the department an enhanced role in monitoring, coaching, and supporting agencies through the inspection process which will increase our ability to ensure high-quality, safe, healthy programming from one end of the province to the other. This is a check and balance with the system, and this is something that the agencies themselves have indicated they would welcome as a change.

Our child care programs are safe. I want to assure parents and communities of that, but of course we don't want to take that for granted. These amendments will strengthen our partnership with family child care agencies to ensure that quality continues and that agencies feel supported in their work with approved home family providers.

These amendments are just one example of some of the major changes we have made over the last year to support regulated child care in our province and early learning in Nova Scotia.

As you know, we have undertaken some significant initiatives, Mr. Speaker. We launched a new funding model that focuses on quality outcomes for children and introduced an early learning curriculum framework that funded centres will be required to follow in their program delivery. We invested close to $3 million in converting underutilized child care spaces to better meet the needs of communities, resulting in more spaces for infants, toddlers, and pre-Primary children needing before- and after-school care. We have increased our investments in the subsidy program by over $5 million per year to ensure more families have access to early childhood education.

[Page 333]

We have committed over $7 million to grow regulated child care by 1,000 spaces in the coming year. We are pleased to say that we are well on our way with over 300 spaces already being created in the province. We have 300 more child care spaces now than we did in the previous year. With a high number of partners coming forward indicating they want to partner with us in enhancing and expanding regular child care, I know that we will be able to reach our target of 1,000 new spaces, and this is in areas where there currently isn't child care offered.

Again, before we brought in the pre-Primary program, only one in four of our pre-school-age kids were able to access child care and early learning, and we are improving that situation for Nova Scotian families.

We've committed to engaging and growing our early childhood education workforce through increased marketing, overseas recruitment, launching bursary programs, and increasing the number of ECE seats available to people interested in pursuing this important and meaningful career.

Overall, the investment in the regulated child care sector - and this is on top of the millions of dollars that we've invested in pre-Primary - is approximately $65 million right now.

With pre-Primary coming to Nova Scotia, with the increase in the regulated child care sector, we are creating 500 new jobs for early childhood educators in this province. We are expecting some retirements in the coming years and that will open up spaces for another 200. There has never been a better time to get into early childhood education in this province, and I'm really excited that we now have competitive wages and job opportunities that are meaningful, many of which can provide benefits and job security to employees. This is a great opportunity for young people to get into this important and critical line of work.

I know that we had a chance to speak about this earlier in Question Period, but we are also happy to open our arms in our pre-Primary program to over 3,000 more students this year who will be coming in to access pre-Primary in Nova Scotia. We know that this program will have an impact particularly on those who need a little extra help out of the gate.

I want to thank family home child care agencies for the important services they have provided and will continue to provide. I would like to thank the family home child care providers for the support they offer families in their communities. Finally, I would like to thank and acknowledge our early childhood educators for the quality programming they provide in so many of our communities across the province.

Particularly, I do want to thank our competent and caring staff at the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. I have had the great opportunity to get to know the folks who work in our Early Learning branch, and they're so committed to the success and well-being of our children. They inspire me each and every day to do a better job as minister, Mr. Speaker. I'm so pleased I have the opportunity to work with them as we improve the overall child care and early learning environment in this province.

[Page 334]

These amendments are all about continuing to enhance the measures we have in place to provide safe, quality early learning opportunities and ensure that our ability to oversee, monitor, and guarantee high-quality, safe environments for child care and early learning is reflected in the law. I look forward to hearing the comments from the members opposite.

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

MR. TIM HALMAN « » : I'm honoured to rise this afternoon to speak on Bill No. 13, an Act to Amend Chapter 120 of the Revised Statutes, 1989, the Day Care Act. I want to thank the minister for his remarks on this bill.

On the surface, this bill appears to be a housekeeping bill clarifying language, modernizing terms, and placing gender-neutral pronouns in the text. This is only proper, Mr. Speaker, and it's good to see governments reviewing legislation to ensure inclusive language and of course to ensure we're maximizing inclusive learning environments throughout our province.

However, in some respects, I am concerned that Bill No. 13 is a consequence of the rushed implementation of pre-Primary last year. My time in this Legislature has taught me that the devil is in the details, and that often when legislation is rushed through and not thought out and planned properly, you can leave some gaps. Certainly, looking at the rushed implementation of pre-Primary, we see gaps with rules around catchment areas. We certainly see gaps with respect to that piece of legislation when it comes to access to playground equipment.

Keeping that in mind, Mr. Speaker, Bill No. 13 appears to be mostly housekeeping and appears to be good for children under the care of daycares so long as it doesn't present an unreasonable regulatory burden for agencies on program delivery. Upon reading the bill, Bill No. 13 does not immediately present any additional red tape burden on child care agencies. But as we all know as elected officials, we have a responsibility to be attuned to the concerns that are out there, to consult and listen attentively to the concerns of child care providers in this particular case.

We encourage the legislative process to unfold. The Official Opposition wants to see what issues emerge with this bill at Law Amendments Committee. We want to consult and to listen to child care workers. Bill No. 13, from my reading, theoretically provides the department with more powers to oversee inspections, to identify cases where practices may be an issue, and to act quickly to resolve those cases. The Official Opposition wants to hear from the child care provider community.

[Page 335]

There are some questions that arise when one reads the bill. Are these amendments creating twice the work? Are there additional costs or paperwork that could impact program delivery? Will the changes in Bill No. 13 discourage new child care services or drive others out of the market?

My take on Bill No. 13 is a road map. As I have noticed is the case with much legislation brought before this House by this government, we need to ensure the details are looked after. Of course, we need to wait and see specific regulations set out before we can get a true sense of the changes that will impact the agencies, providers, parents, and children.

With those few words, let the legislative process unfold. Let's consult and see what emerges from the Law Amendments Committee.

[3:30 p.m.]

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

MS. CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : As the minister and my colleague have both said, this is essentially a housekeeping bill, although I do recognize that it does contain some important language changes. Some of those are just legislative housekeeping in terms of putting the bill in gender-neutral and clear language, which as a former lawyer, I appreciate.

The one change that is really important here, and I congratulate the government on recognizing this, is the change of the name of the Act itself. Language matters, and early childhood educators deserve recognition for being the educated, hard-working, professionals that they are and for the vital work that they do. Too often, when we talk about daycares or child care, there is a sense that these important professionals are babysitters - I assure you that they are not. I do congratulate the government on making that change. I think it's an important one.

Beyond that, these are mostly routine changes. More oversight, on its face, is good. I agree with my colleague that the devil will be in the details. We will see how that unfolds, both for the agencies and for the regulated child care homes.

In an environment where it's still difficult for many families to find affordable and accessible early learning opportunities, particularly for younger children, I suggest that bigger changes are needed. Mr. Speaker, 300 spots are something, and I congratulate the government on their movement towards more spots for early learning and infant care in particular, but that's not enough. It's not affordable enough, and it's not accessible enough. To further exacerbate that, it appears that some poor planning has lead to serious labour force issues in that area.

[Page 336]

We appreciate most of these changes. We look forward to seeing them unfold. Like my colleagues, I look forward to hearing further comments from parents, early childhood educators, and other workers in this sector at Law Amendments, and to seeing the legislative process unfold.

With those few words, I'll take my seat.

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

The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : I do want to thank the members opposite for their thoughtful commentary and general support for this piece of legislation.

Our government has made significant investments in affordability. We have enhanced the subsidy program to reach more families. We have changed the thresholds for that subsidy program so that more lower- and middle-income families are able to access the highest level of subsidy available. This is all about making this program more affordable and making it more accessible by expanding spaces. We have 300 new spaces now, and we will have 1,000 or more by the end of this year. That is our goal, to make sure that these services are available and affordable in every single community in this province. It has been far too long that we have been without this essential service in our province and every single one of our communities.

I do want to comment that there are no legislative changes that are needed to be made in order to enhance that affordability aspect or accessibility. We can do that within the parameters of the current legislation. What this legislation does is ensure that we are able to ensure quality, safe programming in home care spaces.

We work with our partners, the agencies, to provide those inspections and to make sure that every single person who is receiving funding and subsidy and involved in a business, not-for-profit, or a government program knows that they have a responsibility to adhere to the highest safety and quality standards. This will help us and this Legislature together to ensure that happens.

Thank you very much, again, for the thoughtful commentary. I appreciate the support of the members opposite. I now move to close second reading on Bill No. 13.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 13. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

[Page 337]

Ordered that this bill be referred to the Committee on Law Amendments.

The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : I ask that we recess the House for a few moments.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Is it agreed? It is agreed.

The House will now recess for a few moments.

[3:35 p.m. The House recessed.]

[3:36 p.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please.

The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, that concludes government business today. I move that the House now do rise and reconvene on Friday, September 14^th, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Following the daily routine and Question Period, we will deal with Bill No. 23, the Canadian Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act; Bill No. 29, the Labour Standards Code; Bill No. 27, the Animal Protection Act; Bill No. 16, the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Protection Act; and Resolution 50, amending Rule 60.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for the House to now adjourn, to reconvene tomorrow, September 14^th, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

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

The motion is carried.

The House now stands adjourned until tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.

[The House rose at 3:38 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 338]

RESOLUTION NO. 107

By: Ms. Kim Masland « » (Queens-Shelburne)

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

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

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

Whereas on August 22, 2018, Meghan and Josh Bowers welcomed their daughter, Annaley Pearl Bowers, into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 108

By: Ms. Kim Masland « » (Queens-Shelburne)

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

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

Whereas Mary Muise of Beech Hill celebrated her 90^thbirthday; and

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

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

RESOLUTION NO. 109

[Page 339]

By: Ms. Kim Masland « » (Queens-Shelburne)

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

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

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

Whereas on August 31, 2018, a very special occasion took place when Ellen and Robert Folvik of Liverpool celebrated their 50^thWedding Anniversary;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 110

By: Ms. Kim Masland « » (Queens-Shelburne)

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

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

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

Whereas on September 9, 2018, a very special occasion took place when Susan and Wilson Oickle of Milton celebrated their 50^thWedding Anniversary;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 111

[Page 340]

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

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

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

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

Whereas on June 27, 2018, Chelsea and Cody Cunningham welcomed their son into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 112

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

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

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

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

Whereas on June 22, 2018, Jessica Matthews and Patrick Crowell welcomed their son into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 113

[Page 341]

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

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

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

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

Whereas on January 4, 2018, Monica and Christopher Goreham welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 114

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

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

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

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

Whereas on June 27, 2018, Mindie Nickerson and Jim Wickens welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 115

[Page 342]

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

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

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

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

Whereas on January 4, 2018, Mary d'Entremont and Gabriel Doucette welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 116

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

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

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

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

Whereas on June 22, 2018, Kendra and Jeremy Clairmont welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 117

[Page 343]

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

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

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

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

Whereas on June 21, 2018, Katia Antsipenka and Brandon d'Entremont welcomed their daughter into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 118

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

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

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

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

Whereas on July 12, 2018, Jessica Quinlan and Dalton Perry welcomed their daughter into the world;

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