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HALIFAX, MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2019

Sixty-third General Assembly

Second Session

6:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Suzanne Lohnes-Croft, Brendan Maguire

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

COLTON LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to present a petition. The operative clause reads as follows:

"We, the undersigned, ask that the Government of Nova Scotia take immediate action to improve highway safety along the above mentioned section of Highway 103 [Exits 32 and 32A and the Argyle/Glenwood area] by improving signage warning motorists of the dangerous section, improving signage in the turn lanes and reducing the speed limit to 80km/h along this dangerous section until a safe, long-term solution . . . is established."

Mr. Speaker, there are 272 signatures. I have affixed my signature, as well, as per the Rules of this House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

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PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, as Chair of the Committee on Law Amendments, I'm directed to report that the committee has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 204 - Workers' Compensation Act.

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

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

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, as Chair of the Committee on Private and Local Bills, I am directed to report that the committee has met and considered the following bills:

Bill No. 183 - An Act to Exempt from Taxation the Property of the Digby Town and Municipal Housing Corporation in the Town of Digby.

Bill No. 195 - An Act Respecting the Union of Certain Churches Therein Named.

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

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

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

NOTICES OF MOTION

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STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

MACMILLAN, LORRAINE: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, the quaint island of Pictou Island will never be the same with the recent passing of one of its most caring citizens, Helen Lorraine MacMillan.

Lorraine was born on Pictou Island in 1927, and never did she stray far from such a magical place. At the age of 38, Lorraine lost her vision, but this did not diminish the desire of this strong-willed woman to remain on Pictou Island. Over the years, many would flock to Pictou Island just to chat with Lorraine about the historical facts, as well as her own personal journey of life living on an island.

She was the foundation, matriarch, and rock of Pictou Island. Anyone who was blessed to know her will miss this vibrant lady, but her memory will live on in the tremendous giving spirit of the island community.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Antigonish.

ANTIGONISH SCHS.: ATHL. ACCOMPLISHMENTS - CONGRATS.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I think it's important for us to recognize the school athletes within our communities. Earlier this month, the regional competition for cross-country took place in Trenton, and Antigonish performed quite well.

I want to take a moment to recognize the Dr. John Hugh Gillis intermediate and senior girls, both took home the regional banners for Dr. John Hugh Gillis, and also the intermediate boys. From Antigonish, Saint Andrew Junior School took home the junior girls banner. All told for the regionals this year, in 2019-20 cross-country, Antigonish schools took home the junior girls, intermediate girls, senior girls, and intermediate boys banners.

Today, provincial cross-country championships took place in Trenton as well. I haven't heard what the results were, but I wish all the participants from across the province the best of luck.

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

PORT MORIEN WILDLIFE ASSOC.:

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EDUCATION, LEAD POISONING - RECOG.

BRIAN COMER « » : I rise today to commend the Port Morien Wildlife Association as they recently received permission from the province to have an eagle carcass taxidermized.

The Port Morien Wildlife Association is a non-profit organization in existence since 1928. Their goal is to assist in sustaining a healthy environment and conserve the resources necessary for future generations to have the right to fish, trap, and hunt responsibly and educate those on the importance of this.

The reason this event was so significant is the eagle will be used as a visual in educational presentations to inform the public on the effects of lead poisoning, as an animal killed with lead ammunition can be ingested by an eagle or other animal, causing it to become very ill and/or die. Further, the Port Morien Wildlife Association will use this opportunity to share the culture, beliefs, and heritage of the Mi'kmaq people.

I stand here today to applaud the Port Morien Wildlife Association on their dedication to this cause and all other programs and projects they are involved with and support.

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

GREECE: RESISTING OCCUPATION - RECOG.

HON. LABI KOUSOULIS « » : Mr. Speaker, on October 20, 1940, the fascist forces of Mussolini requested from Prime Minister Metaxas to be allowed to occupy strategic points of Greece. His response was no. The Greeks fought the Italians so valiantly that the German army had to assist. For 219 days, this small country resisted occupation, delaying the German army; they were annihilated in Russia that winter. This country changed the course of history.

Now in Greek: Eikosti ogdoi octovriou, 1940. H fassisthkes dhnameis tou mousolihn Zhthsan apo ton proth hpourgo metaxa na tous epeitrepsoun na boune sthn ellada. H apantisie tou htan to thriliko OXI.

H ellhnes polemisan tous italous toso dhnata pou eprepe na erthoun h germanei na tous bohtheisoun - 219 meres antistathike auti h mikrh xora.

Kathisterhse tous germanous kai dialhthikane ton xhmouna sth rosia.

Auth h xora Alakse thn poria tis hstorias.

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

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HIGGINS, IVAN: CONCRETE CREATIONS - CONGRATS.

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, visitors to Liverpool are more often than not advised to visit a very special place hidden among the trees and flowers behind Cosby's Garden Centre in Liverpool. Ivan Higgins, owner of the centre is also an accomplished artist. He sketches his creations first in pencil and then brings them to life, transforming them into beautiful sculptures, now known as his "concrete creations." Many of these can be found behind the garden centre, strategically placed in a sculpture garden to be enjoyed at any time by locals and visitors alike.

[6:15 p.m.]

I am pleased to acknowledge Ivan's work here today and thank him for so freely sharing his creative gift with all who live and visit our community.

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

SMITH, SUSAN: COM. SERV. - THANKS

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : Mr. Speaker, I've heard that "volunteering doesn't necessarily mean that you have the time, it simply means that you have the heart." This quote brings to mind the dedication of the president of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 111 from Shubenacadie, Susan Smith.

Susan has been a member of the Legion for the last 16 years and has dedicated countless hours to the Legion and those in her community. Serving as president intermittently for over six years, Susan follows the same principles as the Legion does: serving her community while remembering those who served, and still serve, our country. She has helped host an array of different fundraisers such as delicious dinners, trivia nights, and other creative ideas in the spirit of raising money to help out veterans and those in need in the Shubenacadie area.

During the Poppy Campaign in November, each year she has personally placed hundreds of flags on the graves of soldiers at local cemeteries, ensuring those who are gone are not forgotten - a small gesture with an incredible impact. She takes great pride in helping others and feels compassion about giving back to her fellow community members. If she's not planning events for the Legion, she's looking for other ways to help in her community.

I would like all members of the House to join me in thanking Susan for all her years of volunteering and enriching the lives of the community members.

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

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SUMMER NIGHTS COM. BBQ: 10^th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

STEVE CRAIG « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the organizers of the Summer Nights Community Barbeque which took place at Acadia Park and Hall in Lower Sackville on August 30, 2019. The Summer Nights Community Barbeque has taken place for the last 10 years. I would like to applaud Mr. Marvin Upshaw, owner of Ascension Barbershop in Lower Sackville who, in conjunction with the Cobequid Youth Health Service, makes a great effort each year to ensure this event takes place. This free event was open to everyone in the community. It consisted of musical entertainment, children's games and prizes, and followed by a movie in the park.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members of the House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Mr. Marvin Upshaw and the volunteers involved in the annual Summer Nights Community Barbeque event for their efforts to ensure that this enjoyable event continues every year.

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

GUYSBOROUGH MEM. HOSP. AUX.: CARE AND COMFORT - THANKS

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Guysborough Memorial Hospital Auxiliary for their fundraising efforts and dedication to those served by Guysborough Memorial Hospital. Hospital auxiliaries across the province work to improve the care and comfort of the patients and enhance programs and services. Auxiliary members and volunteers dedicate hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours annually to raise funds for needed equipment, bursaries, and other important programs. They also provide valuable services such as the operation of hospital gifts and coffee shops. For more information about membership or to donate, contact the local auxiliary.

Recently the Guysborough Memorial Hospital Auxiliary put on an exceptional Easter theme bake sale held at the Guysborough Legion, with lots of tasty treats available for purchase.

I'd like to thank all the dedicated members of the Guysborough Memorial Hospital Auxiliary for their contribution to the care and comfort of patients and their families.

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

E. PASSAGE BUS. ASSOC.:

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PROMOTE, NETWORK, SHOWCASE - RECOG.

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give special recognition to the Eastern Passage and Area Business Association at the end of Small Business Week. This is a week that recognizes the small and medium-sized businesses within our communities. Small businesses make up 99.7 per cent of all businesses in Canada and play an important role in the economic growth of their communities.

This week is designed to promote, network, and showcase entrepreneurs across the country. I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in recognizing small business owners in the Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage constituency, especially the Eastern Passage and Area Business Association board members: President Misty Remier, Vice-President Magali Gregoire, Treasurer Jodi Wood-Keizer, Secretary Karen Noble, Social Media and Membership Director Mel Zilkowski, and Ethics Advisor Nathalie Scofield.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Armdale.

WOOD, JOYCE MURIEL: 95^th BIRTHDAY - BEST WISHES

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to send my best wishes to Joyce Muriel Wood, a resident of Armdale, as she celebrates her 95^th birthday. Born Joyce Berry on December 21, 1924, she grew up just outside of London, U.K., in Woodford.

Following her studies at the London Hospital, she graduated as a state registered nurse in 1943. At that time the need for help was overwhelming, the war was raging, and soldiers were returning from the battlefield daily with grave injuries. Joyce cared for those who made their way back to London and is one of the few remaining of her generation who experienced the horrors of that conflict in their youth.

With the war's end, she married William Wood and turned her caring eye to her family. The Woods had three children together before immigrating to Canada, first settling in Burlington, then Upper Tantallon, and now in Armdale.

I ask all members of this historic House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Joyce Wood as she celebrates with family and friends this tremendous milestone.

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

DENNY, ERIN: ATHLETE AND LDR. - CONGRATS.

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KEITH BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand in my place to recognize and congratulate Eskasoni's Erin Denny for once again being named to Team Atlantic for the 2019 National Women's Under 18 Hockey Championship.

Erin has demonstrated both her abilities and leadership skills over the years and continues to do so as captain of the MacIntyre Chevy Panthers of the Nova Scotia Female Midget AAA Hockey League. She will be joined by another Cape Bretoner, Madison Corbett of Sydney.

I ask all members of the Legislature to join me in wishing Erin all the best in this year's championship, her season with the Panthers, and all her future endeavours. Keep up the good work, Erin.

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

SIMMONDS, COLTER: FRANK BALDWIN AWARD - CONGRATS.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colter Simmonds, one of the three recipients of this year's Basketball Nova Scotia Frank Baldwin Award.

We are lucky that Colter currently works at the Zatzman Sportsplex as the child, youth, and sports coordinator, where he is focused on building up the Teen Takeover program, but he has a long legacy of working with youth in Nova Scotia.

He has coached basketball in three metro high schools and, for the past 20 years, has run the not-for-profit We Will Win Youth Association where he works with youth at risk to develop a strong commitment to community, athletic, and academic achievements. Colter was nominated by his community for his efforts to grow the sport of basketball in Nova Scotia and is a dedicated mentor in the community.

Please join me in thanking Colter Simmonds for his long-term commitment to youth in Nova Scotia.

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

ELLISON, JAMIE: PROPAGATING BEAUTY - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jamie Ellison, an instructor at the Nova Scotia Community College Kingstec Campus.

Under the direction of Jamie, the students in horticulture and landscape technology grow a variety of beautiful, healthy native plants and shrubs for use in our beautification project in Goodwood.

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The propagation courses taught by Jamie focus on reproducing plants from cuttings, grafting, and seed. The plants donated to the project were mainly indigenous plants propagated from plants on campus and grown at the Kingstec nursery facility.

Careful consideration was given to designing and growing native plants that would provide an aesthetically pleasing landscape while at the same time require little to no maintenance. The shrubbery is hardy to our region, capable of surviving winter conditions, and displays a four-season interest. The shrubbery was also chosen specifically for the conditions prevalent in the project area.

Jamie's knowledge and expertise in horticulture helped to support our project by promoting land stewardship in an attractive and environmentally friendly manner.

I ask the members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in thanking Jamie and the NSCC Kingstec Campus for their overwhelming generosity and support for our community project.

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

LYME: SERIOUS DISEASE - RECOG.

` HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, Lyme disease in this province is unfortunately commonplace. According to a recent Harvard Medical School blog, Lyme disease is probably the most well-known disease for which a diagnosis and treatment are most controversial.

Several countries around the world, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, have thousands of reported cases of Lyme. Lyme disease is life-altering, keeping those affected from enjoying a reasonably healthy lifestyle, unable to work, and suffering daily pain.

It is definitely time to recognize that we are dealing with a serious disease and we can no longer continue to offer lip service. Two U.S. Lyme disease specialists held two workshops in Pictou County last month. This was an effort to educate health officials and local residents about the importance of quick diagnosis and proper treatment in this province.

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

DIWALI: HINDU FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - BEST WISHES

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BEN JESSOME « » : Mr. Speaker, October 27^th marks the annual Hindu festival of lights, better known as Diwali. It is one of the most significant traditions in Hindu culture. It symbolizes light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

I would like all members of the House to join me in wishing everyone a blessed and happy Diwali.

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

JU, JASON - PODIATRIST: DARTMOUTH PODIATRY - CONGRATS.

TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to recognize Dr. Jason Ju, who has just opened a new business: the Dartmouth Podiatry foot and ankle clinic. Jason opened the business just this past April. With roughly a decade of experience, Jason is an experienced podiatrist who specializes in managing diabetic foot concerns.

Not only does Jason treat his patients, but he also educates them on proper at-home care practices, as well as how to manage pain. Jason has worked extremely hard to create a comfortable and welcoming environment that all clients can appreciate.

I applaud Dr. Jason Ju for his tireless work that allows clients to leave their appointments with a spring in their step.

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

SOU'WESTER DAYS: EVERYTHING SAMBRO - THANKS

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, every August the community of Sambro comes alive for Sou'wester Days. I know some people in this Legislature - I've seen a few familiar faces there. This multi-day celebration celebrates everything Sambro. From a ball tournament to a dance to a parade, there is lots to do over the four- to five-day celebration.

Countless hours go into making Sou'wester Days work. I'd like to thank Lori, Leslie, Sarah, Natasha, and all the volunteers who make this happen. Without their hard work, we wouldn't be able to celebrate everything Sambro.

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

DUKE, LAURA CHURCHILL:

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BOOK, TWO CROWS SORROW - CONGRATS.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Laura Churchill Duke, who has made a significant, positive impact in our local community and deserves recognition for her work and accomplishments. Laura lives in Kentville with her husband David, two sons Daniel and Thomas, and a number of rescue animals. She is the creator of the Valley Family Fun website, a highly-used resource by local families to see what programs and events are available in our area. She is a freelance journalist for papers like the Advertiser and Grapevine. She is a professional organizer with Your Last ReSort, a home organization company she created with her friends and colleagues. She is the current president of the Kings County Academy Parent-Teacher Association.

Most recently, she has become the published author of the book Two Crows Sorrow, a work of creative non-fiction about a true story of a North Mountain murder. Please join me in congratulating Laura on her recent success and wishing her well in all future endeavours.

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

WE'RE OUTSIDE: SMALL BUS. EXCELLENCE - CONGRATS.

KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, in recent statements to this House, I've wanted to bring attention to the small and medium-sized businessowners who make small towns like my home community of Wolfville thrive.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll know the store We're Outside, which has been operating for the past 15 years on Wolfville's Main Street. Owner Brian Adams has focused on selling quality outdoor clothing and products, combined with excellent service. This has earned him many loyal customers throughout Nova Scotia. Brian also puts his products to the test each Saturday morning by leading hikes in the area, affectionately known as the Pain Train.

Retail store owners face a host of challenges these days, so it's important to celebrate when a business that focuses on quality products and face-to-face service excellence is so valued by its customers.

I invite all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in thanking Brian Adams of We're Outside for his commitment to creating a successful and very special small business in Wolfville.

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

KNOWLES, STEPHEN: TOWN BEAUTIFICATION - THANKS

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KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the efforts put forth by the residents of Pictou to bring new life into the town by brightening the streets with beautiful yards and gardens. One Good Samaritan who stands out is Stephen Knowles. Stephen has, for years, taken it upon himself to spend his free time working on the gardens surrounding Coleraine Plaza. The yards are always perfectly weeded and trimmed. From year to year, they are appreciated by the many tourists and locals choosing to take a stroll through downtown Pictou.

I thank Stephen for his years of hard work and dedication to the improvement of our town. It is work like this that is truly noticed by the residents, and will be for years to come. Thank you, Stephen.

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

WILSON, KELLY: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Kelly Wilson, who was my constituency assistant from June 2017 until July 2019. Kelly has served the people of Dartmouth and also many folks in Halifax for many years, working as a constituency assistant in offices for several political representatives. Federally she worked with MPs Alexa McDonough and Megan Leslie in Halifax and Wendy Lill and Robert Chisholm in Dartmouth-Cole Harbour. She also worked in the Dartmouth South MLA office with Marian Mancini.

[6:30 p.m.]

Most recently, Kelly worked in the Dartmouth North office. She expertly set up the office and then stayed on for two very busy, very full years. Through that time, she helped countless people access government services, and find other services in the community and often simply listened to their frustration and anger when things were not going their way.

Whenever I was out in the community someone would pull me aside and say, that Kelly, she's amazing. She retired at the end of July. She plans to travel and spend more time with her family. She will be missed immensely by the folks she served in the community and by me.

I ask all members of the House to join me in thanking Kelly Wilson for her dedication and service and in wishing her a very happy and relaxing retirement.

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

S. SHORE ROBOTICS TEAM: INTL. ROV COMPETITION - CONGRATS.

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HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the South Shore Robotics Team from Bridgewater Junior High and Parkview Education Centre. The team, including Adam Culbert, Evan Kinsman, Aditya Kondapuram, Eli Langille, Teodora Milos, and Ciaran O'Brien, and teacher Byron Butt, competed in the 2019 Marine Advanced Technology Education International ROV competition last June in Tennessee. Some of the brightest minds from around the world competed at this event with remotely-operated vehicles that they designed and built.

The South Shore team's impressive underwater ROV, the SS Enterprise, competed in the ranger level against 45 other teams. It was tasked to complete four real-world scenarios, that included lifting a heavy cannon off the bottom of a pool and scanning a dam for cracks and holes.

Adam Culbert said: We did our best! With such few teams in Nova Scotia we are in a bit of a bubble, so the most rewarding part was learning from other teams and sharing different solutions to problems. We are motivated to be even more competitive.

Mentor Byron Butt added that the students were ambassadors for our province, handling themselves with dignity, warmth and kindness to others. Congratulations to the South Shore Robotics team.

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

WESTHAVER, ZEKE: SKATE PARK CREATION - CONGRATS.

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, while in Grade 9, North Queens Community School student Zeke Westhaver decided that it was a good idea to build a skate park in Caledonia. Zeke reached out to me, as his MLA, and to his councillor, Gil Johnson. I was thoroughly impressed with his resolve to make the skate park happen.

Zeke and his mother, Bobbi-Jo, developed a proposal, secured a site and skateboard infrastructure from a neighbouring community, and set out to make Zeke's dream for his community a reality.

In August of this year ZNW Skate Park officially opened. Mr. Speaker, I am so proud of this young man and ask all members of this House to join me in congratulating Zeke, Bobbi-Jo and all who supported them in making this project come to completion. Zeke should serve as an example to us all.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.

WHITE, GARRY: DEDICATED LEGIONNAIRE - THANKS

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HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take a moment to commend a stalwart volunteer at our local Legion branch. Garry White has been deeply involved in volunteering at Bedford Legion Branch 95 for over 23 years. He is the kind of guy who notes what needs to be done and then he does it. His leadership qualities and attention to detail are integral to the success of the Bedford Legion.

For example, in 2007 Garry took over the chairmanship of the weekly bingo which had been struggling financially for several years. Over one year he reorganized the event and turned it into the main source of income for the branch and he is still the bingo chair to this day. He has also been branch president for five years and building chair for five years.

Not surprisingly, Garry has been much-lauded for his dedication to our local Legion. He holds a Legion life membership and he has won Legionnaire of the Year twice. He has been awarded a Branch Service Medal and an Officers Medal, as well as many certificates of merit and appreciation.

I'd like to join in the many voices who have thanked Garry for all his service. He really is one of a kind.

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

COBEQUID HEALTH CTR. FDN.: 26^th ANN. WALK RUN - CONGRATS.

STEVE CRAIG « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the dedicated staff, volunteers, sponsors and participants of the Cobequid Community Health Centre Foundation's 26^th annual Walk Run for the Health of Our Community, which took place this past weekend, yesterday, on Sunday, October 27, 2019, in Lower Sackville.

Over the past 26 years the Walk Run has raised $1.4 million, which has gone directly to the Cobequid Health Centre to fund priority medical equipment and facility improvements.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to ask all members of this House of Assembly to join me in congratulating the staff, volunteers, sponsors and participants in this year's Walk Run for the Health Of Our Community and thank them for their efforts to bring the community together to support health care needs while encouraging healthy and active lifestyles.

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

MACNEIL, MEGAN:

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OUTSTANDING NSCC VALEDICTORIAN - CONGRATS.

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, on June 12, 2019 Megan MacNeil from Great Village, Colchester North delivered a moving speech for the NSCC class of 2019 at the Truro Rath-Eastlink Community Centre.

Megan, who had previously earned a university degree in social services, completed a two-year course at NSCC. During those two years, she worked 20 to 40 hours a week, gave other students private tutoring, spent time with her husband, as well as his family and her family, and battled clinical depression while doing all of this.

In her valedictory, Megan expressed great praise to the faculty, professors, and counsellors for what she called their "phenomenal" help with her lifelong struggle. She urged other students to take advantage of the excellent help that is offered there. In her captivating speech, she showed how she took inspiration from Disney characters, leaving her fellow graduates with a quotation from Dumbo, "Don't just fly; soar."

Megan plans to continue her work with Mi'kmaw families. Congratulations to Megan and may you continue to be an inspiration to others.

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

COPEMAN, DEBORAH - LIBRARIAN: FREE BOOKS - THANKS

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, October is Canadian Library Month and October 18, 2019 was Canadian Library Workers Day. I rise today to bring recognition to an extraordinary librarian, Deborah Copeman of South Woodside Elementary School, for all her hard work in coordinating with myself and the whole community to bring a free bookshelf centre to the school.

This bookshelf holds importance, as the students will have access to books outside of their assigned library time. Kent Building Supplies graciously donated all the materials and students from Island View High School built the bookshelf to be donated. Literacy and the process are fundamental in education and earning competency in all subjects of learning. Value Village also donated books, as did the entire community.

Today, we launched the free bookshelf centre and it was heartwarming to see how excited the kids were when they were told they didn't have to bring the books back. When they asked if they could keep them, I said yes and they said for how long, and I said forever, and it was just priceless. I hope to see the bookshelf library initiative make roots in other schools across Nova Scotia.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in thanking Deborah Copeman for her dedication to literacy and for all her help with this local bookshelf centre.

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

LE COURRIER DE LA NOUVELLE-ÉCOSSE:

EXCELLENCE AWARD - CONGRATS.

HON. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, in communities across the country, people have sought ways to communicate with each other. Before the internet and television, people learned the news through newspapers such as the weekly Le Petit Courrier du Sud-ouest. This paper was first published by Désiré d'Éon and distributed in the southwestern end of the province in 1937.

In 1972, to reflect the new provincial mandate of Le Courrier to develop links between all francophone and Acadian communities of Nova Scotia, the name of the paper was changed to Le Courrier de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Since then, in a time when the way people communicate and inform themselves has changed dramatically, Le Courrier has evolved to strive to remain relevant to French-speaking people of the province.

In 2019, L'Association de la presse francophone, a Canadian network of French language newspapers published outside of Quebec, recognized Le Courrier with the APF's Prix d'excellence de la presse francophone 2019 in the category of Special Project of the Year. Congratulations to François Robichaud and his team at Le Courrier. They are continuing to inform their readers as Désiré d'Éon did many, many years ago.

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

REMEMBRANCE DAY - LEST WE FORGET

KEITH BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, on the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month, this country and its citizens will be commemorating the end of World War I. We will take time out of the day, remembering those brave men who fell and all those husbands, sons, and brothers who fought.

We will also remember those who sacrificed, defended, and fought for our country in World War II and Afghanistan. "As the bugle played The Last Post and Chorus/ the old men stood up proud and tall/ but year after year, the numbers get fewer/ someday, no one will stand there at all. But we shall never forget them, Mr. Speaker. (Applause.)

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

MILLER, MONICA/LANE, HEATHER: BIG SWIM - CONGRATS.

[Page 4795]

HUGH MACKAY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Monica Miller of St. Margarets Bay and her support kayaker, Heather Lane, who took part in the Give to Live's Big Swim, which took place August 18^th in Northumberland Strait. This year's approximately 13-kilometre swim was in support of Brigadoon Village, which delivers transformational camp programming to Atlantic Canada children, youth, and families living with health conditions or other life challenges.

Monica first thought of swimming in the Big Swim many years ago, but was somewhat afraid of swimming in deep water, not to mention the creatures that might lurk there. She also felt that she was not a strong swimmer. However, after much training, on August 18^th, Monica and 43 other swimmers dug deep, braved the cold and the black water, and went for it. They raised a total of $160,000.

Mr. Speaker, I invite the members of this House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Monica Miller, daughter of our own Margaret Miller, her support kayaker Heather Lane, and all the swimmers and support kayakers who participated in this year's Give to Live Big Swim in support of Brigadoon Village.

THE SPEAKER « » : I would just like to remind all members not to mention other members of this Assembly by their proper names.

The honourable member for Cumberland South.

BROWNELL, KEN - PHARMACIST:

BOWL OF HYGEIA AWARD - CONGRATS.

TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ken Brownell, pharmacist and part owner of Oxford PharmaChoice and Springhill Ross Anderson PharmaChoice.

Ken is the 2019 recipient of the Pfizer Consumer Healthcare Bowl of Hygeia Award - I hope I pronounced those words right - which was presented to him by the Nova Scotia Pharmacy Association. This award is presented annually to a pharmacist in each jurisdiction in Canada and the United States to recognize their outstanding services to the community.

I ask you to join me in congratulating Ken Brownell on the outstanding achievement and continued service with his staff in the communities of Oxford and Springhill.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN » : Further to a discussion with my colleagues, the Opposition House Leaders, I would like to ask for the unanimous consent of the House to revert to Presenting Reports of Committees.

[Page 4796]

THE SPEAKER « » : Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

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

Bill No. 213 - Sustainable Development Goals Act.

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

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

[STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Antigonish.

LEGION BR. 59: POP-UP MUSEUM - REMEMBER

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Last night I had the privilege of joining a number of constituents at our local Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 in Antigonish.

It was a first event of its kind - in Antigonish, anyway - to kick off the remembrance season. Our local Legion Branch 59 partnered with Meghann Jack, an assistant professor of anthropology at St. F.X. University, and her students, as well as Pier 21 and the Antigonish Dutch Society, to host a pop-up museum at the Legion. People from the community participated by bringing a number of artifacts that they had in their personal belongings, commemorating their time and recognizing their time in the Netherlands during the war. People from the community came together to reflect on these artifacts and discuss the war and the immigration to Canada.

It was a great event, Mr. Speaker, and I thank all of those involved. It was a great way to kick off our remembrance season.

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

[Page 4797]

ABBOTT, ZAC/OLDFORD, JENNIFER:

DARTMOUTH E. MURAL - THANKS

TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to recognize two wonderful members of the Dartmouth East community, Zac Abbott and teacher Jennifer Oldford.

During the month of June, Zac chose to complete his final Grade 12 art project, The Legacy Project, in the Dartmouth East office. During a mixture of art classes, off blocks, and free time, Zac and his art teacher, Ms. Oldford, came down to the Dartmouth East office and painted a beautiful mural. The image overlooks the water and walking trails of Shubie Park.

I am extremely grateful to Zac and Jennifer, who undertook this project, and I could not be more excited to have this beautiful project displayed in our office. It wouldn't have been possible without them. I want to thank Zac Abbott and Jennifer Oldford for their outstanding work in the Dartmouth East office.

[6:45 p.m.]

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

CHEDABUCTO CURLING CLUB: ORG. OF THE YR. - CONGRATS.

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to cheer on the Chedabucto Curling Club of Boylston for earning a Nova Scotia Curling Association award for being the Organization of the Year. Having received this award before in 2015, the curling club was determined to build on their success, and they have.

The Chedabucto Curling Club has been doing great things. This completely volunteer-run organization has seen new renovations to the facility, new programs offered by their club from their expansion, insulation and new siding to developing the junior girls curling team. It also started up a Little Rockers six- to nine-year-old program.

Chosen from among the 33 members of the Nova Scotia Curling Association, club president Ray Bates and vice-president Maurice Landry accepted the award for Organization of the Year this past June 8^th.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Chedabucto Curling Club for winning this prestigious award and wish them another season of fun and competition as we start the 2019-20 curling season.

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

[Page 4798]

WCB ACT: BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT FOR WORKERS - RECOG.

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, if there is any case history of the ideal example of the benefit-of-the-doubt clause of the WCB Act, Darrell MacKinnon of Pictou County is that perfect example.

Under Section 5.1 of the Act, the worker making a claim for compensation is entitled to receive the benefit of the doubt. Under Section 5.2 of the Act, if the factors in favour of the worker's claim are just as likely as the factors against, the matter is resolved in the worker's favour. In other words, Section 187 of the Act sets out the benefit of the doubt, which means that an issue must be resolved in a worker's favour if there is doubt about the issue and the disputed possibilities are evenly balanced.

Upon examination of the specialists' medical findings, there is absolutely no doubt that Mr. MacKinnon should be receiving his benefits. However, the WCB continued to wear him down, hoping he will gradually give up, that the waiting, uncertainty, and incredible frustration will force him to simply move on. Mr. MacKinnon will not give up or wear down.

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

COMMON GOODS SOLUTIONS - HOST:

SOC. ENTERPRISE WORLD FORUM - CONGRATS.

LISA ROBERTS « » : I rise to congratulate Common Good Solutions and a small group of social entrepreneurs - Rodney Small, Josh Creighton, Bradley Daye, Lauren Sears, and David Upton - on their participation in the Social Enterprise World Forum, which has just concluded in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I thank them for their leadership in attracting the next Social Enterprise World Forum to be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from September 23^rd to September 25^th next year.

Social enterprises use market-based business models to achieve social and environmental purposes. There are many examples, including New Dawn, Made with Local, and LakeCity Woodworkers. Lauren Sears, managing director of Common Good Solutions, the organization which will host the forum, told delegates that Halifax is the epicentre for social enterprise in Canada. Indeed, I am very glad and grateful that the epicentre of the epicentre is Common Good Solutions, located in Halifax Needham. Congratulations to them all.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Halifax Armdale.

INTL. WALK TO SCHOOL DAY: HEALTH AND SAFETY - RECOG.

[Page 4799]

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, October 2^nd marked International Walk to School Day. The day is a global event that involves students, staff, and family members from over 40 countries walking and biking to school on the same day. The event has become part of a movement for year-round safe routes to school and a celebration of the health and social benefits of walking to school with peers.

I was so pleased when I heard that almost 70 per cent of students at Springvale Elementary in Armdale took part. They walked through Fairmount and Springvale, and used their Chain of Lakes trail to get to school, and some in the Stoneridge community accessed the trail through a path along a short section of Dunbrack.

Mr. Speaker, currently this path is not suitable for young children. For this reason, I scheduled a meeting with HRM engineering and active transportation staff this month, walked all along the site, and viewed preliminary plans for a greenway connector project. I am pleased to see pedestrian safety and comfort being prioritized in our community and look forward to the project's completion.

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

CROUSE, ROBBIE: MOUNTIES' HEAD COACH - CONGRATS.

LARRY HARRISON « » : I would like to congratulate a Stewiacke native who has taken a step up in his career.

After serving as assistant coach for the Mount Allison Mounties women's volleyball team, 27-year-old Robbie Crouse has been selected as their head coach this year. With a great deal of coaching experience at club, high school, and university levels, he plans to bring a competitive and positive mindset to the team this year.

Last year, the team qualified for the playoffs but lost in the conference semifinals to Mount Saint Vincent. It appears that he plans to take the team further this year, so I wish Robbie all the best in his new venture.

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

BOOZA EMESSA: SYRIAN ICE CREAM - CONGRATS.

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize an outstanding entrepreneur in Clayton Park West.

Earlier this Summer, I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of a new Syrian ice cream shop, Booza Emessa. The owner, Samer Aljokhadar, immigrated here with his family three years ago from Syria, where he owned a similar shop for 11 years. Upon coming to Nova Scotia, he worked very hard to bring his delicious treats here and his dream finally became reality thanks to Dr. Hadad.

[Page 4800]

His wonderful ice cream is made from a resin called mastic, which has many medicinal benefits and allows it to be denser than the traditional ice cream that is found here. Samer serves many flavours including chocolate, mango, banana, and lemon; however, my personal favourite is his popular rolled pistachio ice cream.

Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Samer and his family on opening such a successful business, and I wish him the best in the future.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

ZINCK, ZACH: AVE MARIA BASEBALL SCHOLAR - CONGRATS.

SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Zach Zinck of Pine Grove who is attending Ave Maria University in Naples, Florida, on a baseball scholarship for the next three years.

At the age of three, Zach began playing baseball and quickly fell in love with the sport. Zach's 2019-20 baseball season started with an elbow injury that threatened to end his budding baseball career. Persevering through the setback, Zach healed from the injury and went on to have a showstopping season.

When Ave Maria University scouts saw Zach, they were drawn to his pitching abilities, his attitude on the mound, and his work ethic. They offered him a scholarship valued at $18,000. Zach's dream of playing professional baseball was coming true. Zach said, "I know that if you want something like this, then you have to be willing to work for it. I've always had great support from my family and friends."

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and all members of this House of Assembly please join me in congratulating Zach Zinck on his scholarship and wish him well in pursuing his dreams.

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

CARR, SANDRA: LWF COM. HALL AED - THANKS

BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Sandra Carr, a long-time community volunteer, for spearheading a community effort to equip the Fall River LWF Community Hall with an automated external defibrillator, AED.

Sandra is part of our local seniors' group who regularly meet at the hall and is also a board member of the hall itself. Placing the AED in our organization of the community can potentially save lives. AED has proven to be one of the most important tools in saving the life of someone suffering sudden cardiac arrest.

[Page 4801]

Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking all the community members, volunteers, fire departments, Lions Club, and especially Sandra for equipping our community hall with the lifesaving device.

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

JOHNSON, CORA: PROV. SWIM MULTI-MEDALLIST - CONGRATS.

BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Cora Johnson, a swimmer from Fletchers Lake, on competing for six medals at the Summer Swimming Provincial Championships.

Cora, 14-years-old, swims with the Canada Games Centre Swim Academy. Cora took home five silver medals and one bronze. I would also like to congratulate Cora on being one of the 100 swimmers from the Canada Games Centre squad to make the NS Summer Swimming All Star Team.

Please join me in congratulating Cora on her success and wish her the best in the future swim competitions.

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

COLE, ELIZABETH: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, on September 23^rd, tragedy struck the community of Greystone. Elizabeth Marie Cole dropped her young daughter off at Rockingstone Heights School, and before she could leave the school grounds, she collapsed and shortly after, she passed.

Elizabeth was someone we've all known for decades. She was a gentle soul, and I want her two young daughters to know that. Thank you to the teachers for reacting and shielding the young girls, to the community for being there, and to Elizabeth Cox for stepping up to take those young girls into her home and to treat them like her own.

Rest in peace, Elizabeth, and to Hailey and Rachel, your Mom was and is an angel.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

SALTBOX BREWING CO.: COM. FUNDRAISING - RECOG.

[Page 4802]

SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Saltbox Brewing Company of Mahone Bay for raising over $7,600 for two programs in our community. Saltbox President George Anderson said that the support of the community- based initiatives is the core value of the company.

The Saltbox organized two successful community events in 2019, the first being the Saltbox Soap Box Derby which raised $4,100, and all proceeds went to support the Bayview Community School Breakfast Program. The second event, which raised $3,500, was a joint effort between the Canadian Dory Racing Association of Lunenburg and the Saltbox, which organized the Dory Racing Challenges in Mahone Bay and Bridgewater. All proceeds went to support the Canadian Dory Racing Association, and I must say that the member for Lunenburg West did quite well in that race.

The Saltbox has also created a specially labelled beer, with the proceeds of this beer to help fund the training of dogs to support veterans and first responders experiencing PTSD.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing the Saltbox Brewing Company for their continued support for community- based initiatives.

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

WOTHERSPOON, KIMBERLEY: COM. SERV. - THANKS

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Kimberley Wotherspoon, an active community leader in Clayton Park West. Kimberley lived in our community from 2004 until 2008 and returned in 2014. Her volunteer efforts began when she was in high school and have continued ever since.

I have had the pleasure of speaking with Kimberley at many of our community cleanups where she has shared her passion for keeping our riding clean. Kimberley has demonstrated a keen interest in the environment, and my office very much appreciates her help in our litter prevention initiative.

Kimberley has also volunteered for several organizations in the Maritimes, including the Nova Scotia Royal International Tattoo, the Canadian Country Music Awards, and the East Coast Music Awards.

I would like to thank Kimberley for everything she does in our community. It is people like her who make the biggest difference.

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

[Page 4803]

BRIDGEWATER: WINNER, SMART CITIES CHALLENGE - CONGRATS.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Town of Bridgewater, the winner of the 2019 Smart Cities Challenge. On May 14^th Infrastructure Canada made the exciting announcement that Bridgewater was the winner of the national competition's $5 million prize category.

The community's proposal for an Energy Poverty Reduction Program, submitted in March, was designed to lift residents out of energy poverty, starting with reducing the energy poverty rate by 20 per cent by 2025. The application focused on Bridgewater's growing need for affordable, clean, and reliable energy, which is out of reach to many residents. Estimates show that around 38 per cent of Bridgewater households are unable to meet their basic energy and transportation needs.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in congratulating the Town of Bridgewater, its community partners and residents for their prestigious win and for creating an exciting plan of action to reduce energy poverty.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.

ALL SAINTS ANGLICAN CHURCH:

150 YEARS OF COM. SERV. - CONGRATS.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate All Saints Anglican Church on 150 years of service to the community of Bedford and surrounding area.

The church and parish have a long history. Its cemetery dates back to the late 1800s, and the current building is 114 years old. However, the church continues to move with the times, for example: hosting sessions for single parents; a community outreach program for seniors called Coffee and Conversations; a youth group; and it initiated a family-friendly service on select Sunday afternoons known as "messy church." They also have an annual blessing of the animals, which is not the same as messy church.

All Saints has also provided space and support to groups such as the Scouts, Girl Guides, and Alcoholics Anonymous and its associated organizations. The parish hall is home to the Bedford Players Community Theatre which presents theatrical works several times a year.

As I've demonstrated, All Saints Anglican Church has a big presence in Bedford. I want to congratulate its leadership and parishioners and wish them all the best as they celebrate on November 3^rd. I know the next 150 years will be just as significant for All Saints and Bedford.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

[Page 4804]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

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

GOVERNMENT MOTIONS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that the adjourned debate on the Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne be now resumed.

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

[7:00 p.m.]

BRIAN COMER « » : I assure all members that this won't be an hour. It's going to be pretty short and sweet.

I'd just like to say I'm thankful for the opportunity to stand here and speak tonight, something I definitely didn't think I'd be doing in my lifetime, that's for sure. Nonetheless, here I am, proud to be here and happy to represent the constituency of Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg. (Applause)

First I'd like to thank my wife Jenn, definitely my strongest supporter. We've been through a lot over the last 12 years. She's home now with our two-year-old, and she's seven months pregnant, God love her. She's working a lot harder than I am, I think. She's actually the one who put the idea in my head to do this in the first place, both of us coming from a health care background. She knows it's something I've always had a drive and a passion for.

I have to thank Marie, although she's only two. She's not going to remember any of this anyway, God love her. I'd like to thank Benson - he's my dog, my Goldendoodle, man's best friend and the best picture of stress reduction you could ask for.

I'd like to thank my mom. She's not a very political person whatsoever. We come from a hard-working, lobster-fishing, salt-of-the-earth type of family. I dragged her into this mess in the middle of the Summer and she came all hands aboard, whether it was through signs or phones or just with her positivity. I have to thank her for showing me the values and morals - respect and compassion for everybody.

I'd also like to thank Virginia, my mother-in-law - actually one of my best friends, as weird as that sounds. She was my campaign driver for 60 hours a week, mostly areas with no cell service. She's awesome, just relentless energy and passion. I wouldn't be here without her, for sure.

[Page 4805]

I'd like to thank my brother Kyle. It probably still boggles his mind that he was putting signs in the ground for me. He collected them as well, so I definitely appreciate that. My sisters-in-law are also very busy professional women. They did doors, phones, signs, all that sort of good stuff.

I'd also like to mention my dad. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2011 from a rare blood disorder. He was a lobster fisherman his entire life in Port Morien, a very hard-working, traditional man, I would say. Anyway, we spent about nine months up here in Halifax on the eighth floor of the VG in the hematology unit. Isolation precautions are challenging at the best of times, not just for a patient but also a family member.

I often think of what he would say if he thought I was a politician - probably "What in the hell are you thinking?" I'd have to say, he probably would be proud, I think. I don't know. I like to tell myself that he would be.

I'll just talk a little bit about the constituency. It's a very vast, beautiful constituency, from Gabarus to Louisbourg to Mira to Donkin to Port Morien. I was very fortunate in my campaign to have people from all over the constituency help me. Some of them just got to know me within the Summer, which is crazy, really, to show that kind of commitment, day in and day out.

There's a few people I'd like to thank specifically. I'll probably miss somebody, but it is what it is: Rob and Ruth Andrews from Marion Bridge; Paul Morrison from Coxheath; Hugh and Bernice Kennedy from Donkin; Wendy and Dave MacPhail from Sydney River; Eleanor and Glenn Shepard from Louisbourg; Julie Forgeron from Main-Ã -Dieu; and Lucille Mackie from Howie Centre - just to name a few. (Applause)

Now that I'm home a little bit - not too much, because the House is sitting, obviously - people come up to me and say, I can't believe you of all people got into politics. Why would you get involved, I guess is what they're asking me.

In all honesty, coming from a health care background in Cape Breton - this wasn't on my radar a year ago, I can tell you all that right now, to be honest with you. But you just get fed up, and you want to advocate for change for where you live. I'm not placing blame on anyone. I think we all have to work together to fix this problem anyway, but to be totally honest, that's why I did get involved. (Applause)

I do think Cape Breton presents its own unique set of circumstances - the chronically high unemployment, childhood poverty. People are just having a hard time making ends meet in Cape Breton, generally speaking. I know most of the people I graduated high school with are either out West, they're on the mainland, or they're somewhere else, which is unfortunate. We need these young families in Cape Breton to raise families and to stick around and contribute to society.

[Page 4806]

I don't think this is going to be an easy fix for any of us. I think we have a tough road ahead of us, regardless of Party. I think it's important that we collaborate and work together, especially when it comes to issues like this, for the whole province. I know I'm biased, but I do think it's unfortunate Cape Breton is often a forgotten-about island, at times, through economic growth and opportunity. You've heard a lot this session about population and economic growth and Cape Breton is all the opposite, which is unfortunate. That has to change. I think that's one of the reasons hopefully I can help. I'm going to try my best. (Applause.)

My constituency is very, very rural - no cell service, like I said, in most of the areas. A lot of hard-working people in fishing communities, manual labour, small businesses, and that sort of thing. Quite frankly, I think they need help in a lot of different ways. I'm not sure what that is specifically right now, but I know we have to advocate for these people.

I grew up in Donkin most of my life. I spent a lot of time at the rink with my dad and my brother. I was actually lobster fishing from the age of 12 until about 26. For the first five or six years, I was the bait boy. At that time, we fished what was called "a rig and a half," so that's about 413 traps of just cutting bait for about 14 or 15 hours a day. I really appreciated my next job after that one, that's for sure.

I moved on to health care and I actually did the program together with my wife - every class, every clinical placement, every night home together - and we became closer than ever, I have to say. I've been fortunate enough to work in Glace Bay cardiac, medical surgery, and geriatric population. I specialized in mental health and addictions the last number of years, so I've been around in the health care field. Everyone has his own unique concerns, but I think the one comment I'd have is that they do need help, and I think they need help right now.

I would like to thank the health care providers across the province, especially in Cape Breton. (Applause.) A lot of good colleagues are working in tough conditions. It's stressful and it wears you down - and I know that because I've done it. It burns you out, impacts your family life, impacts how you can raise your children - it impacts everything.

It's tough right now - it's tough sledding in Cape Breton, for sure. I'm very hopeful that we can all work together to help those people. Like I said, there is no easy fix. I know this isn't going to happen overnight. I don't think this is going to be a fairy tale by any stretch of the imagination, but I think the solutions need to start now and they need to start by us working together.

I'd also like to thank all members of this House for being so kind, respectful, and courteous, and for sharing some knowledge and some wisdom. I'd like to thank members of my own caucus, especially the young veterans in the first two rows in front of me. It's quite the orientation. I'd like to thank our Leader, Tim, who sweated on the doorsteps for two weeks in Cape Breton in heat of 30 degrees - and I still haven't seen him eat yet, I don't think. I do think he's relentless, his drive is intense, and I think that's why he will be the next Premier. (Interruption) I'm trained well.

[Page 4807]

That's all I have to say. Thank you to everyone. (Standing Ovation.)

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg. I've known him for many years as an athlete. He's a beast of a hockey player. He shoots the puck real hard. I've still got scars on my wrists from playing him in a league. He's not real polite out there, but he's hard as nails.

I do want to say to the member, for the record, that I had the absolute pleasure of knowing his dad Johnny. I can tell him that his dad would be very proud to see what he's become today. Very well done. (Applause.)

Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 152.

Bill No. 152 - Plastic Bags Reduction Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Environment.

HON. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 152, An Act to Reduce the Use of Plastic Bags and Other Single-use Products, be now read a third time.

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

BRAD JOHNS « » : Mr. Speaker, I stood up the other day last week. It was late, it was dark, and I went on for a long time. I think I'm going to do the same thing tonight, and then that way we're going to stop meeting in the night. We'll do everything in the afternoon because Brad doesn't talk too much then, right?

Mr. Speaker, our caucus does support this bill. Unfortunately, it's not because it's a perfect bill. It's because it's better than nothing at the moment. That's not really the greatest reason to support it. I wish there were some other reasons, but we will be basing it on that.

[Page 4808]

Ironically, our Leader and our caucus had a very similar bill to this that we were going to bring forward, but the Government beat us to the punch on it. That's fine, but we certainly feel that the proposal that we were going to bring forward would have been much more comprehensive than this particular bill that's before us now. It really doesn't seem to go far enough in dealing with the issues of single-use plastics.

I'm hoping it may possibly be expanded at some point in time, but given the title of the bill, I highly doubt that. This seems to be very specific to plastic bags, but it would have been nice to be able to address all single-use plastics, whether that be single-use water bottles, straws, or even covers for hot coffee cups and things like that. We would've liked to have been able to see that.

The other issue that really seems to be a concern - and I raised this in this House earlier on - is that although we are glad to see the Government taking the lead and setting this for all municipalities across this province to avoid a patchwork across the province on how to deal with single-use plastic bags, we would have liked to have seen something that was actually more in line with the other Atlantic Provinces. It makes it easier for people who shop, who go to New Brunswick or P.E.I.

Additionally, as I said previously in regard to P.E.I., there do seem to be some disincentives there to using other options than single-use plastic - either paper or cloth or something else. The unfortunate thing about those is that, although people see them as a good alternative, they actually are a higher consumption of carbon; they increase our carbon footprint. They take more to make and, in some cases, have to be used so many times over and above what a plastic bag is to be able to meet the environmental cost to develop it.

I know the minister did say that he thought P.E.I. was going to revisit the part in their bill where they charge for both paper and cloth. This isn't addressed that in this province in this bill that's before us. I really think that's something that we're missing. I think we should be looking at that. We certainly don't want to see any unpredicted consequences that comes out of this.

Studies have certainly shown that, in going to paper, there is a cost both to municipalities as well as the environment. The weight of the paper is almost seven times that of plastic. One of those unintended consequences will be municipalities having to deal with paper whereas, if there was a charge, that would try to limit those. We certainly don't want to see an increase of paper bags going into landfills either.

I just sat through another bill before this House in Law Amendments committee, namely the Sustainability Goals Act. I compare this one here to the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change, which did highlight the 10 to 12 years to start taking climate change seriously. This government held a climate emergency - I think it was the first day that we met here in the House. Given that this bill doesn't address everything that it should be addressing, it doesn't seem to go far enough. I certainly, once again, question how much of an emergency government really thinks the environment is.

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Some of the pillars with regard to plastics and waste is refuse, reduce, recycle. This doesn't hit all of those but, as I said, I guess it's better than what we have currently. It doesn't address paper bags and a charge to them; the environmental footprint of paper, as I said, is more significant. Even though it doesn't have all those things, as I said in my initial statement, it is better than what we have now. From that perspective, we'll be supporting what's here before us now.

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

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, we in the NDP regard this as welcome legislation. There are so many things about the context of this legislation that are now known so incontrovertibly.

We know that marine plastic pollution has increased tenfold since 1980 and that 80 per cent of all marine debris is composed of plastics. As the U.N. report of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystems Services established earlier this year, we know that marine plastic pollution is directly affecting today 267 species, including 86 per cent of marine turtles, 44 per cent of sea birds, and 43 per cent of marine animals.

In a province as defined by the ocean as Nova Scotia is, and where the health of the ocean is so determinative for us both in the present and in our future, a ban on single-use plastic bags really has just the status of common sense. That is to say, it's time. It's time for Nova Scotia to join the range of jurisdictions from P.E.I. on the east coast to Victoria on the west coast that have enacted bans . . . (Interruption)

[Due to an unexpected power outage, by motion of the Government House Leader and approval by all members, the House adjourned at 7:29 p.m. to meet again at 1:00 p.m., October 29, 2019.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

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RESOLUTION NO. 1418

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Sharon Hubley, a CUPE 1867 activist, is this year's recipient of the Grace Hartman Award for feminist leadership within her union;

Whereas Sharon is one of the few women in her workplace of 1000 highway workers in Nova Scotia;

Whereas the award recognizes Sharon's work in breaking down barriers for women over the past 25 years, and for standing up for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulates Sharon on her contribution to justice in the workplace, and wishes her all the best in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1419

By: Claudia Chender (Dartmouth South)

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

Whereas Barb Carrigan is one of the very first members of the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre; and

Whereas she is a steadfast and reliable volunteer who ensures the dining room is prepared for the Center's guests; and

Whereas she is a core member of the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre's community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere thanks to Barb Carrigan for her service to the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1420

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By: Claudia Chender (Dartmouth South)

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

Whereas Blair MacKinnon and Heritage Law have been long-time supporters of the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre; and

Whereas they are excellent neighbours who have served Christmas dinner to Dartmouth seniors at the Centre for many years; and

Whereas they are always prepared to donate their time and expertise;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere thanks to Blair MacKinnon and Heritage Law for their service to the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1421

By: Claudia Chender (Dartmouth South)

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

Whereas Gordon Foster is a long-time member and serves on the board of directors of the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre; and

Whereas he is the first to volunteer and lends his hand at all of the Centre's events; and

Whereas he also serves Dartmouth veterans in his role at the Somme Branch Legion;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere thanks to Gordon Foster for his service to the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1422

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By: Claudia Chender (Dartmouth South)

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

Whereas Kim Conrad is a long-time supporter of the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre; and

Whereas he has also served the community as a long-time Dartmouth Kiwanis member; and

Whereas he is first to donate to the Centre's events and fundraisers;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere thanks to Kim Conrad for his service to the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1423

By: Claudia Chender (Dartmouth South)

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

Whereas Marian Reid has been a member of the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre's Choir since its inception; and

Whereas she keeps the choir organized by organizing concerts and maintaining its extensive sheet music collection; and

Whereas her work has allowed the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre Choir to bring the joy of music to hundreds of seniors as singers and audience members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in offering sincere thanks to Marian Reid for her service to the Dartmouth Seniors Service Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1424

By: Ben Jessome (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas pastors are spiritual leaders who provide guidance, love, support, and hope in communities beyond the walls of any church; and

Whereas they are sought out and depended upon not only in times of great joy, but in times of grief, despair and personal tragedy; and

Whereas Rev. Dr. Lennett J. Anderson, exemplifies what it means to be a strong, thoughtful, inspirational, humble, and selfless leader at Emmanuel Baptist Church, in Upper Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia, and is recognized for such integrity throughout the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Rev. Dr. Lennett J. Anderson, CD, on his 20th Pastoral Anniversary, pray for his continued faith, health and strength and wish him future success as he continues his pastoral journey.

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