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HALIFAX, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2022

Sixty-fourth General Assembly

First Session

9:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Keith Bain

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Angela Simmonds, Lisa Lachance

THE SPEAKER » : Order, please. As mentioned yesterday, I am prepared to make a ruling on two questions of privilege that were brought before me on April 22^nd, the final day of the Spring sitting.

SPEAKER'S RULINGS

As I mentioned, there were two separate questions of privilege before me. First, the member for Bedford Basin alleged intimidation by the Minister of Economic Development, and second, the member for Cumberland North alleged intimidation by the Premier.

Since these two separate questions arise from a series of events, and since both questions also assert the same substantive category of privilege, I'll now rule on both questions concurrently. In doing so, I echo what the member for Preston in her capacity as Deputy Speaker recently articulated as the Speaker's role in a question of privilege. That role is simply to decide whether or not there is a prima facie breach. To reiterate, a prima facie case is established if the allegations, taken on their face at first glance, and presumed to be true, will constitute a breach of privilege.

If the Speaker is satisfied that there is a prima facie breach, it then falls to the members asserting privilege to bring a motion before the House for a remedy.

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In ruling upon both questions concurrently, I will first summarize the facts that I presume to be true. After summarizing the relevant facts, I will then analyze the test that applies to this specific category of privilege. First, the facts from which the two questions arose:

The following summary comes from the audio and video, in addition to the submissions made on the record when both members raised their respective questions on Friday, April 22^nd. On that date, the Deputy Premier, the former House Leader for the NDP, and the Minister of Economic Development also rose to respond.

On the prior evening of Thursday, April 21^st, the member for Bedford Basin was speaking to a proposed amendment on Bill No. 149 during Committee of the Whole House on Bills, with the member for Eastern Shore presiding as the Chair. As members of all stripes regularly do, the member for Bedford Basin tabled documents to sustain the points put forward in her speech. Partway through her speech, the member for Bedford Basin broke from her commentary on the amendment to state, and I quote, "once again, the Premier is directing the Chair and this has happened repeatedly throughout this evening."

Immediately, the member for Cumberland North then rose on a point of order. She stated she had, and I quote, "been watching the Premier direct the Chair"; that it was her "understanding that the Chair is supposed to be impartial"; and that the Chair is "not supposed to be directed by the Premier."

Next, the Chair ruled on the point of order. He confirmed that he was, and I quote, "sitting here of my own volition, making my own decisions." I pause here to note that the point of order was closed by the Chair's ruling. The clause-by-clause then resumed when the Chair recognized the member for Bedford Basin to speak. The member continued her speech on the proposed amendment without further break and eventually concluded. Then there was a recorded division.

At some point after the recorded division, the Premier left his seat. In the course of exiting the Chamber, the Premier is alleged to have uttered, "Why don't you go block another highway?" I pause here to note that neither the Premier's alleged directions towards the Chair, nor the Premier's alleged intimidating remark towards the member for Cumberland North, were transcribed in Hansard. That is because at both times, the Premier did not have standing to speak to the matter before the Committee of the Whole House.

After the House adjourned, the member for Cumberland North was visibly shaken. Outside the main entrance to the Chamber, a few Opposition members, including the member for Bedford Basin, gathered near the mailboxes. While the member for Cumberland North was being comforted, the Minister of Economic Development walked by and is alleged to have uttered, "Coven meeting?" The member for Bedford Basin stated that she asked the Minister whether the minister had called the Opposition members witches. The minister allegedly confirmed that, indeed, she had. The member for Bedford Basin replied that she believed the minister's remark was inappropriate, and the minister allegedly responded that the member for Bedford Basin was "reading selectively from letters." The member for Bedford Basin then informed the minister that quoting from letters is part of their job.

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Second, having summarized the facts presumed to be true, I now turn to the law.

The law of parliamentary privilege encompasses two dimensions: the collectively held privileges of the House as an institution and the personally held rights of its elected members as individuals. As I noted at the outset of my ruling, the two questions before me fall within the individual dimension of privilege, with two members asserting their own rights to be free from intimidation.

When it comes to the legal test that applies to this specific category of privilege, it is worth observing how rarely instances of intimidation arise from the words or actions of an elected member of the House. Rarer still are instances of intimidation within the Chamber in the midst of legislative proceedings. Most precedents involve intimidation by a stranger to the House through actions taken or words spoken outside the Chamber.

Given the rarity of questions of privilege involving intimidation by members against members, I have also carefully examined three comparable precedents and the authorities cited therein.

The first precedent is a ruling of Speaker Milliken from October 25, 2006. The Minister of Foreign Affairs was alleged to have shouted a sexist remark across the floor at member with whom the minister had a personal history, and who had recently changed party affiliations.

The second precedent is a ruling of Speaker Scheer from January 28, 2014. A Senator had disseminated a letter to the House which criticized a member in a manner alleged to be hostile and misogynistic.

The third precedent is a ruling of Speaker Regan from April 11, 2017. The Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs was alleged to have intimidated the Opposition House Leader by approaching her in an aggressive manner.

That said, no matter where the intimidating act occurs and who the intimidating actor is, the test remains the same. The test is as the Deputy Speaker, the member for Preston, recently distilled in her Ruling of October 18^th, and the test involves two steps, namely:

First, from an objective perspective, is there an intimidating action?

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Second, does that intimidating action directly impair a specific parliamentary duty or legislative function?

These two steps are conjunctive. If there is no intimidating action, then the test ends at the first step.

Now, I will apply this test to the two questions of privilege at hand.

First is the question of privilege raised by the member for Bedford Basin, alleging intimidation by the Minister of Economic Development outside the Chamber.

Viewed objectively, a reasonable person would perceive the remark uttered by the minister as derogatory, and the insinuation it carried to be spiteful. Had the remark of the minister occurred during live proceedings inside the Chamber, I would not hesitate to rule it unparliamentary. The remark is of the sort that would be reprimanded by a teacher in a playground or reproached by a parent in a home. In the circumstances, however, it is not sufficiently grave to constitute intimidation. Parliamentary privilege is a constitutional norm, and as such, the standard is proportionately graver than that of the ordinary rules of decorum and social convention.

Having ruled that there was no prima facie breach of privilege by the Minister of Economic Development against the member for Bedford Basin, I will now address the second and separate question of privilege involving the preceding event.

In addressing the question of privilege raised by the member for Cumberland North against the Premier, the first step of the test is, again, to consider from an objective perspective, is there an intimidating action?

An objective perspective requires asking whether a reasonable person, placed in the shoes of the member, would be intimidated by what was said, in light of the manner in which it was said, and the surrounding context. In attending to the surrounding context, the following four factors are relevant to this particular question:

First, the dynamic between the sole Independent member of the House and the leader of the party in command of a majority of the House;

Second, the history between the two individuals involves an instance of discipline that is part of both the public record and the legislative record;

Third, the alleged remark itself is an allusion to an event that occurred in the member's constituency; and

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Fourth, the alleged remark was uttered after the Independent member rose on a point of order that alleged the Premier had breached the House's rules.

A member is entitled to receive the benefit of the doubt. Viewed objectively, would a reasonable person find there was indeed an intimidating action? In this highly context-dependent situation, I believe the member for Cumberland North must be extended the benefit of the doubt. The first step of the test is therefore satisfied.

To apply the second step of the test, the three precedents I cited earlier all emphasize that this category of privilege often hinges upon whether the intimidation was accompanied by a corresponding impairment in a parliamentary duty. For Speaker Regan, the impairment of a duty was a "key factor." Likewise, Speaker Scheer held that "a direct link with parliamentary functions is essential", and although Speaker Milliken saw an "erosion of mutual respect", the aggrieved Members had not identified how the "regrettable situation" impeded them "from accomplishing their work."

Similarly, I am unable to discern a direct link between the intimidating action and an impairment of any parliamentary duty. The Member did not identify a legislative task or proceeding from which she was impeded or impaired, nor is it possible to infer a corresponding impairment from the record. To the contrary, Hansard shows that the member continued to perform various parliamentary duties on behalf of Cumberland North, and participated in multiple items of legislative business at the next available opportunity.

Finally, I wish to conclude by reminding the House that all members have read and signed the House of Assembly's Harassment Policy. I encourage everyone to reflect upon the standard for respect and dignity that they have committed to upholding everywhere else and towards everyone else. I also remind the House that the Harassment Policy applies to interactions between members outside of debate in the House. People can and do perform difficult jobs and debate delicate issues outside of the chamber with civility and good faith. I invite everyone to import that spirit when matching wits inside the chamber.

With that, we'll move on to the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

HON. BRIAN WONG » : Mr. Speaker, I just have a question for you before we start the day. Just wondering if the member for Halifax Atlantic has submitted the documents that were requested? He was supposed to table documents, and we are just wondering if he's tabled the documents from his oration.

THE SPEAKER « » : The Clerk has informed me that although the member did have a release in front of him, he wasn't quoting directly from that release, so he wouldn't be required to table the document. It wasn't direct quotes that were coming from whatever he had in front of him. That's what the Clerk has advised me.

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PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS, AND OTHER PAPERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Mr. Speaker, I am tabling a document with regard to a Member's Statement I will be reading later from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, Living Wages in Nova Scotia 2022.

THE SPEAKER « » : The paper is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services.

RESOLUTION NO. 410

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : I hereby give notice on a future day, I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Hurricane Fiona was one of the most significant weather events to hit Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the staff of the Department of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services worked around the clock to ensure Nova Scotians have the information they needed, financial supports for those impacted by the storm, and that critical government functions continued to be operational; and

Whereas these divisions include, but are not limited to, business continuity, public safety and field communications, Access Nova Scotia centres, Contact Centre Nova Scotia, the Business Registration Unit, Financial Services, the Nova Scotia Digital Service, and Geographic Information Services;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in recognizing the hard work and dedication of the staff at Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services to ensure that Nova Scotians are supported when they need it the most.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

RESOLUTION NO. 411

HON. STEVE CRAIG « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas 53 years ago, on October 23, 1969, HMCS Kootenay suffered the worst peacetime accident in the history of the Royal Canadian Navy; and

Whereas the explosion off the coast of England and the ensuing fire and toxic smoke claimed the lives of nine crew members and seriously injured 53 others; and

Whereas the crew's ability to react swiftly and courageously prevented further loss of life and provided lessons learned to avoid future tragedies;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Legislature recognize October 23, 2022, as HMCS Kootenay Day in the province of Nova Scotia.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

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The honourable Minister of Community Services.

RESOLUTION NO. 412

HON. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas a shared decision was made to postpone Treaty Day celebrations earlier this month due to the continuing impacts of Hurricane Fiona; and

Whereas there is an opportunity to gather Monday evening, October 24^th, at Pier 21 in Halifax to recognize the signing of the Peace and Friendship Treaty and commemorate the unique relationship between the Mi'kmaq and the Crown; and

Whereas the Treaty Day celebration will allow us to come together in person and virtually to honour our continued treaty relationship and recognize the contributions and achievements of Mi'kmaw community members who inspire all Nova Scotians;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Mi'kmaw elders, youth, and community members who will be receiving Treaty Day awards and scholarships, and wish everyone well as they join in Monday's celebration.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 225 – Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 39 of the Acts of 2008, the Halifax Regional Municipality Charter. (Hon. John Lohr)

Bill No. 226 – Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 7 of the Acts of 2011, the Fair Drug Pricing Act, Respecting Influenza Vaccine for Seniors. (Susan Leblanc)

Bill No. 227 - Entitled An Act Respecting Certain Financial Measures. (Hon. Allan MacMaster)

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Bill No. 228 - Entitled An Act to Amend Chapter 380 of the Revised Statutes of 1989, the Public Utilities Act, Respecting Efficiency Nova Scotia. (Hon. Tory Rushton)

Bill No. 229 - Entitled An Act to Maintain and Preserve Voluntary Blood Donations in Nova Scotia. (Susan Leblanc)

Bill No. 230 - Entitled An Act to Declare the Blue Felt Lichen to be the Provincial Lichen of Nova Scotia. (Hon. Jill Balser)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

MERCER, MAJ. DWAYNE: SERV. WITH RCAF - THANKS

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Major Dwayne Mercer.

Since May 1990, Major Mercer has served with the Royal Canadian Air Force. He began his career at CFB Shearwater working as an aviation technician. Throughout his years of service, Major Mercer has been involved in many significant missions, including the VIP arrival of Air Force One and President Bill Clinton in 1995, the recovery mission for victims of the Swissair crash off Peggy's Cove in September 1998, and the international rescue and recover mission for the 13 survivors and victims of the sinking of the cargo ship Leader L.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Major Mercer for his life of service with the Royal Canadian Air Force.

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

LONG LAKE PROV. PARK ASSOC.: PRES. WORK - RECOG.

ALI DUALE « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize a group of dedicated volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help make Long Lake Provincial Park a wonderful place for Nova Scotians to visit. They support a lot business initiatives, organize cleanups, and are continuously involved the conservation of one of our series of most natural preserve areas.

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Mr. Speaker, the Long Lake Provincial Park Association is a wonderful home-grown organization, and I wish them all the best in their continued efforts. I urge members of this House, when you have a break time, to go to Long Lake park to get fresh air.

[9:30 a.m.]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

LOW WAGES: IMPACT ON HEALTH - RECOG.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Mr. Speaker, a living wage is a form of preventive health care. People who work for low wages often struggle to pay for medication and medical supplies. Costs not covered by Medicare make it difficult to manage chronic conditions or recover from acute illness. Low wages are also detrimental to mental well-being and exacerbate mental illnesses. Food is not a fixed cost either and we often hear of people sacrificing it to pay for shelter. Nutritional food is also more expensive than high-calorie food, yet food insecurity is also a determinant of good health.

Empirical analysis shows that substantially increasing the minimum wage positively impacts society. Case studies have concluded that not only did wages grow but total employment increased in low-wage sectors. The increases reduced the racialized wage gap, especially for women.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotians need a substantial raise, now.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle.

NEWELL, BLAKE: CANADA GAMES PARTIC. - CONGRATS

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give a big shoutout to 15-year-old Blake Newell of Plymouth and a student at École secondaire de Par-en-Bas. Blake was part of Team Nova Scotia's baseball squad competing at the 2022 Canada Games in Niagara, Ontario. He is a third baseman and pitcher and packs plenty of punch at the plate. Growing up he played on the Yarmouth Gateways ball team and he also played on provincial rep teams through Baseball Nova Scotia. Blake's goal is to play baseball at a D1 school after Grade 12.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members of the Legislature to join me in congratulating Blake Newell and wishing him much success in his sports journey.

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

WOLFVILLE CHILDREN'S CENTRE: 50TH ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

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HON. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, many parents know the apprehension and emotion that is tied to dropping their children off on the first day of school. Thankfully, that early anxiety disappears when parents discover the dedication, professionalism and caring of the early childhood educators with whom we place our trust.

In so many ways, child care centres serve as an extension of our family life and set the foundation for our children's lives as young citizens, learners, and friends. This Fall the Wolfville Children's Centre is celebrating 50 years of caring for our community's children. Imagine that! The young children who were the first to enter this wonderful community facility are now 50 years old.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in congratulating executive director Kelly Holleman, past executive director Laurie St. Amour, the board of directors, and all the extraordinary staff of the Wolfville Children's Centre on 50 years of giving our youngest citizens such a strong start to their learning lives.

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

WEEK WITHOUT VIOLENCE: AWAR. PROM. - RECOG.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Mr. Speaker, women, girls, and gender-diverse folks continue to face sexual and gender-based violence every day in Nova Scotia, Canada, and around the world. It is estimated that one in three experiences this type of violence in their lifetime.

This week is the YWCA's Week Without Violence around the world. The third week of each October is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting change, and ending violence against all women, girls, and gender-diverse people. This year's theme is Not On Our Screens | Not On Our Streets. You can see Block Hate videos on YWCA's website to help start conversations in your family, workplace, and community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my fellow members take a moment to recognize the 2022 Week Without Violence and strive to take steps each day that will help stamp out sexual and gender-based violence in their communities.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honorable member for Glace Bay-Dominion.

NO. ELEVEN VOL. SOC.: HURR. SUPP. - CONGRATS.

JOHN WHITE « » : Mr. Speaker, I believe that healthy communities are made up of individuals with a strong collective ownership. When Hurricane Fiona ravaged Cape Breton Island, many organizations, businesses, and individuals stepped forward to help those who were struggling the most.

Perhaps there is no better example of this community spirit than the Number Eleven Volunteer Society. The volunteer group has been doing amazing work in the community for quite some time. From wellness checks and safe places identification to building an outdoor social and activity park, this group is doing it all. During the 11 days without power, this group prepared and delivered close to 1,000 meals to folks - armed with nothing more than barbecues and a hotplate.

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Mr. Speaker, the Number Eleven Volunteer Society is truly a grassroots organization, and they are making a huge impact in this little community. Quite unintentionally, this group is also demonstrating just how we can positively impact our own living conditions. Congratulations and thank you to the Number Eleven Volunteer Society.

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

REGAN, GEOFF: RETIREMENT - BEST WISHES

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pleasure to recognize and thank former MP and my dear friend, Geoff Regan. Geoff Regan was the Member of Parliament for Clayton Park West for over 20 years. He never failed to listen to constituents and advocate for them. Geoff has been a great mentor to me and to many other MLAs and MPs. My interest in politics started when working on his campaigns. Knocking on doors with Geoff gave me the greatest appreciation for the democratic political system.

Clayton Park West was filled with pride on seeing Geoff serve as the 36^th Speaker of the House of Commons from 2015 to 2019. He had an incredible impact on people both inside and outside of his community.

I would ask that the House join me in recognizing and thanking Geoff for his service to Clayton Park West and the people of Canada. I wish him all the best on his retirement. (Standing Ovation)

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

FALENCKI, EMILY: BLUE BUILDING TRANSFORMATION - RECOG.

SUZY HANSEN « » : A building can be a chrysalis, transforming its contents and inhabitants, and through this, its community, as it morphs from one thing to another. This is why I'm pleased to stand today and talk about the Blue Building Art Gallery at 2482 Maynard Street.

The Blue Building also houses Wonder'neath Art Society and Eyelevel Gallery, plus it has professional studio space. The whole building has been transformed thanks to a fresher shade of azure on its exterior, but also thanks to airy glass-paned doors, a new accessibility-informed floor plan at the Blue Building, the city's newest commercial gallery, which boasts 1,400 square feet of space to showcase local contemporary art on the complex's ground floor.

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The brains and heart behind the collaborative project known as 2482 Maynard is artist Emily Falencki, who is the founder and director of the Blue Building gallery, along with artists and Wonder'neath co-founders Heather Wilkinson and Melissa Marr, who all share space in the Blue Building.

I would like all members to join me in wishing Emily many more years of arts transformation in the Blue Building on Maynard Street.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Richmond.

MARCHAND, LOUISE: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the life and career of Louise Marchand of Petit de Grat. Madame Louise, as she was known by her students, passed away on June 14, 2022. She was a true champion of Acadian culture and the French language. Madame Louise was instrumental in bringing French education to the elementary school in Petit de Grat and was a former president of the Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial. Louise was also integral in the creation of the dialysis unit at the Strait Richmond Hospital, which allowed people to get dialysis treatments closer to home, rather than having to travel.

Louise attended St. F.X. University and began her teaching career in 1972. She eventually become vice principal of Isle Madame District High School, and later, Principal of Petit de Grat Elementary School. I have fond memories of Madame Louise as Vice Principal at IMDH and always believed that it was her desire for all students to reach their potential behind her stern, yet fair, persona.

Madame Louise retired in 2006 but she never stopped her desire to make her community better. She was a champion for her community, and a leader who many would follow. Please join me in celebrating the life and legacy of Madame Louise Marchand.

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

BEAZLEY, CANON: IWK FUNDRAISER - RECOG.

LORELEI NICOLL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 12-year-old Canon Beazley, a true IWK Warrior. Last year, in 2021, he was an elite hockey player diagnosed with Stage 1 cancer. In the months that followed, Canon underwent several surgeries, followed by extensive rounds of chemotherapy.

This time last year, Canon and his family decided to combine their gratitude for the IWK with their now-annual House of Doom, a haunted house tour at their home in Dartmouth. Admission was free, but donations to the children's hospital were welcome. As a result, Canon presented a cheque to the IWK for over $15,000.

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In November of last year, Canon finished his treatments and was able to ring the bell, signalling the end of a long but very courageous battle and the beginning of the next chapter of his life. Being the warrior that he is, Canon is still determined to give back to the IWK once more, and the House of Doom 2022 opens again this year on October 28^th.

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

STAY, PATRICK WAYNE: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Patrick Wayne Stay, a beloved Dartmouth community member whose life was cut brutally short at age 36 this past September.

Pat loved his friends and family and his community of Dartmouth hard. He was generous, and kind, funny, and quick, and he always had an encouraging word to offer anyone in need. Pat was also a world-renowned MC known for his diverse, intricate, and cutting battle-rap style. He was called the nicest guy you would ever get insulted by. Even Eminem publicly mourned his loss, and I know he counted some members of this House among his fans.

Pat was adored by the community, and he will be deeply missed, especially by his wife Malyssa and his children, Alaura and Calvin. Violence has no place in our communities, and Pat's untimely passing stands as a painful reminder of this.

I ask all members to join me in honouring the memory of Pat Stay. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

LAMHSS: SUPP. FOR SPORT - RECOG.

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lunenburg Area Minor Hockey & Sporting Society for its ongoing work to support sport in our communities and remove any financial barriers that might prevent young people from participating.

Over the years, this organization has generously supported a number of school and community sport programs. Not specific to hockey, their contributions have included a new set of LiteRocks for the junior program at the Lunenburg Curling Club and ongoing sponsorship of community soccer.

Most recently, they donated $8,000 to Bluenose Academy to help reduce any parent fees that might be expected for sport participation. They also donated a new state-of-the-art sound system to the Lunenburg Arena.

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Mr. Speaker, it is entirely heartening to see the commitment of the Lunenburg Area Minor Hockey & Sporting Society to youth and sport programming in our area.

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

LOCAL RESIDENTS: HURR. SUPP. - RECOG.

FRED TILLEY « » : Mr. Speaker, I just want to bring attention to a situation that's happening in Cape Breton right now.

If anybody watched CTV News Atlantic last night, you'll have seen Mr. Clarence Dawe from Sydney Mines. He is 77 years old, and a very strong community-minded person involved with the Legion for many, many years in leadership positions. At this moment his home is still covered in trees, he still has no power - and no insurance to cover that.

Mr. Speaker, the limitations to what's available right now to help people - 311 is clogged up. You can't get people. The Disaster Relief Fund is 6 to 8 weeks before you can even get those things in and try to get people money.

I just want to talk about the resilience of our community and the people of Cape Breton who have come together. There are trucks, people, and machinery there removing the trees from Mr. Dawe's home today as we speak. Thank you, Cape Bretoners.

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

ST. THERESA'S PARISH: SHELTERS FOR UNHOUSED - RECOG.

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, almost a year ago when the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth committed itself to build 20 temporary homeless shelters on church properties, the Parish of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi in Halifax was quick to respond to the call, establishing two 8 by 8 shelters on St. Theresa's North Street grounds by January.

The parish has thrown itself wholeheartedly into this work. Members have steadily provided grocery gift cards and restaurant gift cards to the residents of the shelters. They've provided access to the shower and laundry facilities at St. Theresa's, and have supported the program financially from its inception.

The shelters, which were originally intended to be in place only until this Spring are now in place for the longer term in response to the escalating numbers this Fall of homeless people in the city.

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The people of the parish are to be commended for the energy and commitment they have brought to this mission, demonstrating to all, including the government, how much can be accomplished when one not only feels, but also acts on, a sense of urgency about the crisis of homelessness in Nova Scotia.

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

MOODY, GEORGE CLIFFORD: COM. SERV. - THANKS

CHRIS PALMER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the accomplishments of my good friend and mentor, a previous MLA for Kings West, the honourable George Clifford Moody.

Born in Kentville in 1942, Mr. Moody went on to graduate from the Nova Scotia Teachers College. He was a school principal when he entered provincial politics and served the Kings West riding from 1978 until he announced his retirement in 1999. During his time in politics, Mr. Moody served in the cabinet of John Buchanan's government as Minister of Environment, Chairman of the Management Board, Minister of Government Services, Minister of Transportation, and Minister of Health.

Since then, Mr. Moody has been a long-term, active community volunteer in our area. He was a key figure in helping raise significant funds to build the Kings Mutual Century Centre and served many years on the board of the Western Kings Memorial Health Society.

George has kept a keen interest in politics and has been a huge support to me in my political journey, and is still a respected voice in political affairs.

Members of this House, I would ask that you join me in thanking Mr. George Moody for his years of service and continued dedication to our community and the province of Nova Scotia.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clare.

ACADIAN SMILES: DENTAL CARE DONATION - THANKS

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : Every April, dental offices across Canada participate in the Give Back Smile Back program as part of April Oral Health Month. This program provides dental care to people who cannot afford the services they desperately need.

At Acadian Smiles, a dental practice in Meteghan, the proprietor and some of the members of his staff donated their time and services to meet the dental care needs of some people who otherwise would not be able to receive necessary treatment. They are Dr. Sukhdip Singh, Cydney LeClair, Nicole Robicheau, Shaila Kennedy, and Doreen Degeau.

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Because of their generosity and concern for their community, the patients they cared for are no longer living in pain or with a worsened dental condition. I ask that all members join me in thanking the Acadian Smiles team for providing this essential dental care service to their neighbourhood in need.

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

KITCHEN SPOT LTD.: SMALL BUS. OF YR. AWD. RECIP. - RECOG.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, this Small Business Week, I would like to congratulate a new Burnside business, Kitchen Spot Limited, on an award that they received this past week.

On Tuesday, Kitchen Spot's owner, Mustafa Mohamed, was presented with the Small Business of the Year Under Two Years in Operation Award at the ISANS Immigrant Entrepreneurship Awards. Mustafa accepted the award with a big grin on his face. This is quite an accomplishment for a business that just opened in May 2022. Mustafa was born in Egypt and immigrated to Canada over a year ago.

Kitchen Spot constructs custom-made kitchens, vanities, and closets. I got to see their beautiful work, including a really nice teal kitchen, at their grand opening this past Spring. I know Kitchen Spot has big things on the horizon. I ask the entire House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Mustafa Mohamed and the entire team on their success.

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

LOO, MARIE & HENRY: HURR. SUPP. - THANKS

KENT SMITH « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express gratitude to Marie and Henry Loo, owners of Jeddore Lodge and Cabins in Salmon River, for their generosity to residents impacted by Hurricane Fiona.

In the aftermath of the storm, Marie and Henry kindly opened their business to the community as an informal comfort centre. Residents were invited to use their facilities to shower, recharge devices, grab a hot beverage, and sit down for a conversation and kind word. Their actions are another excellent example of the welcoming hospitality that Nova Scotians are renowned for in times of crisis.

I ask all members of the Assembly to join me in thanking Marie, Henry, and their staff in providing comfort and demonstrating kindness to the residents of the Eastern Shore as communities were getting back on their feet in the aftermath of Fiona.

[Page 3902]

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

BRAEDON CLARK « » : Mr. Speaker, on September 10^th, I was proud to host the first annual Bedford South End of Summer Fest at Tyler Sampson Park in West Bedford.

When you host a community event like this, it's easy to get paranoid and worried that no one's going to show up. Luckily, we had perfect weather that day, and we saw over the course of three hours at least 400 or 500 people come through Tyler Sampson Park to enjoy the event. It was a huge success.

I want to thank, first and foremost, all of the constituents who showed up for the event, including special guest, the Clerk of the Chamber, who was there with his beautiful baby - thank you for showing up; all the food vendors - Nayya Pizza, we anticipated they'd go through 10 pizzas, they went through 40; the honourable Geoff Regan, who was the musical entertainment - hidden talents; Hatfield Farm, which had a petting zoo; all of the members of my team who helped me organize; the member for Halifax Armdale; the member for Hammonds Plains-Lucasville who came by; and so many more. We're already looking forward to next year.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

LOCAL COS.: TREE REMOVAL - THANKS

KENDRA COOMBES « » : In the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, many of my constituents awoke to trees on their homes. So many of these individuals did not know how they were going to remove these very large trees.

I heard from constituents who were quoted $1,500 to $5,000 for one tree. There are not many individuals in my riding of Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier who would be able to afford $1,500 to $5,000.

During a crisis situation, people come together. I want to thank Woody's Tree Service and Booney's Excavation for donating their time and equipment to help get trees removed from people's homes. Thank you, Woody and Ryan Boone.

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

COHEN, BRIDEN: NEW ASST. COACH ROLE - CONGRATS.

[Page 3903]

HON. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Briden Cohen for her new role as assistant coach with the Weeks Junior A Crushers. She is the first female assistant coach to work with this team.

Briden has an impressive resume both as a coach and as a player. She is an HP1 certified coach who has spent several seasons coaching in Hockey Nova Scotia's High-Performance Program. Most recently, she was head coach of the Fundy Highland Under 15 AAA Female Program that hosted Atlantics in 2022. Briden played Division 1 Prep Hockey and NCAA Division 1 hockey in the United States. In 1996, she was also part of the High-Performance Female Hockey Program at the Olympic Oval in Calgary, Alberta.

Briden, a registered psychologist, plans to use both her hockey background and her professional training in her role as assistant coach.

Mr. Speaker, I wish Briden well in her new position and of course wish the Crushers a successful season.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Annapolis.

MOSHER, JAMES CECIL: MIDD. SPORTS WALL OF FAME IND. - CONGRATS.

CARMAN KERR « » : Mr. Speaker, last month, the Middleton Sports Hall of Fame held their 23^rd annual induction ceremony. One of these very deserving inductees was James Cecil Mosher.

Jim played basketball in high school. He played at Acadia University, and he began refereeing the sport as a teenager. He later earned the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials and International Basketball Federation certifications. He refereed high school games throughout the province, including at the provincial championships. For over a decade, he was the Valley West assigner for all games and the Valley evaluator for officials. Jim also officiated at the university level, including at Atlantic University Sport playoff games, and he was the first Atlantic-area referee to officiate at a national tournament.

I invite all members of the House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Jim on being inducted into the Middleton Sports Heritage Wall of Fame and in thanking him for his tremendous contribution to basketball in our province.

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

BLACK FAMS. & EDUCATORS EXHIBIT: IMPORTANCE - RECOG.

[Page 3904]

LISA LACHANCE « » : Mr. Speaker, there are a couple of days left to catch an important exhibit at the Halifax Central Library. Through to Monday, library guests can take in the Amplifying the Voices of Black Families and Educators exhibit, a collaboration amongst On These Shoulders research collaborative, Mount Saint Vincent University, and Dalhousie University.

In this exhibit, you can read quotes from different people who have Black children in their family, or work with them, and summaries of conversations the exhibit organizers had. These important conversations inspired a live drawing that represents the attendees' thoughts on current issues and what should be done next to better support Black educators, families, and their children.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow members to join me in recognizing the importance of this exhibit. Also, it's a great way to celebrate Library Workers Day, which is today, the third Friday of October.

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

BROOKFIELD ELKS: SOFTBALL CH'SHIP WIN - CONGRATS.

LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, I stand to congratulate the Brookfield Elks on winning the Eastern Canadian U15 softball championships. They posted a 7-0 record to capture the gold medal championship at home in Brookfield.

The team was made up of the following players: Porter Campbell, Waylon Countway, Josh Gabriel, Broolyn Hamilton, Gavin Harrison, Moah Lavers, Keegan Maguire, Cohen Mingo, Will Singer, Ty Sullivan, Rylan Sutherland, Broden VanTassell, Rigby Vantassell, Ewan White, and Cooper Singer.

I also congratulate the Brookfield Elks on winning the Eastern Canadian U13 softball championship. They won the gold medal championship this Summer in Oromocto, New Brunswick. The team was made up of the following players: Ewan White, Wyatt Stokdijk, Tyler Sullivan, Liam Jamieson, Henry Jamieson, Cooper Singer, Garrett Searle, Paige Harrison, Rigby Van Tassel, Ella Grinten, and Izzy Smith. They were coached by Brookes Van Tassel, Brent Harrison, and Shann Singer.

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

LESLIE, CHASE: BLUE JAYS JR. ANNOUNCER SELECTION - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : I want to recognize Chase Leslie of Timberlea.

When Chase and his family went to Toronto this past Summer, the highlight was going to a Jays game. On this special occasion, Chase was chosen from the crowd to be the junior announcer during the third inning. Chase loves sports and is a baseball player. His favourite team is the Toronto Blue Jays. His room is filled with sports memorabilia including bobbleheads, jerseys, signed baseballs, baseball caps, and books on baseball. Chase even attended a Jays training camp this summer.

[Page 3905]

Just before the game started, Chase was asked if he wanted to be the junior announcer. This was a dream come true. Sitting in the announcer's booth, microphone in hand during the third inning, Chase knocked it out of the park and performed like a pro. His charm, knowledge of the game and players, and gift of speaking with eloquence and fluency made him a natural crowd pleaser.

I'd like the members of the House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Chase on his special family holiday and his amazing opportunity to be selected as a Blue Jays junior announcer.

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

ANA + ZAC: CLOTHING STORE - RECOG.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Mr. Speaker, ANA + ZAC is a Nova Scotia-based Canadian clothing brand and retail store established in 2019. Real-life partners, owners, and designers Anna and Zac have been working together since 2012.

Zac Barkhouse is an NSCC- and NSCAD-trained filmmaker and photographer. Zac manages the store, staff, and company financials, and helps design the line. Anna Gilkerson is a FIT, NYC- and Polimoda, Italy-trained fashion designer. Anna designs and develops the line, with help from their team in Peru, directs the creative team, and manages the buying and merchandising for the store.

Anna and Zac think about fashion in a slow and holistic way. They acknowledge trends and move in their own direction, at their own pace. Anna and Zac make things that they both love, can wear every day, and that will last a long time. Anna and Zac listen to their community and build on what they learn, striving to improve on comfort, fit, and the longevity of their clothing.

I would like the House to help me in acknowledging the care and thoughtfulness of the environment through this local business, ANA + ZAC, located in Halifax Needham.

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

WHITMAN, TERRY: COM. SERV. - THANKS

[Page 3906]

DANIELLE BARKHOUSE: I rise today to acknowledge Terry Whitman, a resident of Upper Tantallon, who has been collecting donated wool and yarn and knitting for the community.

In addition to her work as an entrepreneur running The Soap Lady, Ms. Whitman has been donating slippers, afghans, and socks for those in need, including donations to Adsum for Women and Children and the Palliative Care Unit at the Victoria General site of the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre.

Mr. Speaker, people like Terry Whitman are usually the silent, unsung heroes in our communities, but today I want to ask the House to thank her and the many craftspeople of Nova Scotia, who contribute with their wherewithal, their hands, and their hearts.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

INTL. STUDENTS: HURR. SUPP. - THANKS

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, during Hurricane Fiona it was really amazing to see how all the international students in the greater Sydney area really rallied together to support one another.

There were lots of media reports about the students who were preparing meals in downtown Sydney, not only for the thousands of international students who attend Cape Breton University but also were feeding community members at large.

I do want to rise in my place to recognize all the students who led the charge in ensuring that they did their part to support their fellow students and community members. They're very proud to attend Cape Breton University and they call Cape Breton home.

I also want to recognize Khalsa Aid, which has multiple times come into our community to provide humanitarian aide. They are a non-profit organization that was established in 1999 with the seed principle of recognizing the whole human race as one.

I rise in my place to thank all the students and to thank Khalsa Aid for the support that they provided to the community, not only during Hurricane Fiona but in multiple events in the community.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Queens.

PARLEE, GLENN & KATHI - PARLEE MANUF. : BUS. SUCC. - CONGRATS.

[Page 3907]

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, as we mark Small Business Week, I rise to recognize Glenn and Kathi Parlee, who founded Parlee Manufacturing, just outside of Liverpool, in 1985. Their family-run small business is now a seasoned manufacturer of pack system solutions for the medical, fire, emergency, and safety sectors. Their products are well known in Nova Scotia's EHS ambulance bays and on board LifeFlight. 

Innovative, responsive, and resourceful entrepreneurs, the Parlees have a reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable, and resilient products. Using their insights and knowledge from frontline responders, the company proudly introduced its new Versatile Integrated Pack System, or VIP System, earlier this year.

Last June I visited the Parlees at their shop, which shares a space with their Liverpool Adventure Outfitters retail store. I was so pleased to congratulate them on their success, and to thank them for choosing Queens as the home for their businesses.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Parlees and their team on this impressive accomplishment, and in wishing them continued success, not just within our province but beyond.

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The time for Statements by Members has expired.

[10:00 a.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The time is 10 o'clock. We will continue until 10:50 a.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

PREM. - YARMOUTH FERRY: ECON. STUDY - EXPLAIN

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, being a province that is nearly an island, we are a province of ferries. I believe there are 13 ferries in the province, all of which are either subsidized or fully funded by the taxpayer. There are four ferry services that connect Nova Scotia to neighbouring jurisdictions – Newfoundland and Labrador, P.E.I., New Brunswick, and our international link to Maine.

If you look at the costs of those ferry services overall, they are fairly on par - between $13 million and $15 million for the Yarmouth ferry service; for the Pictou to P.E.I. services it is about $12.5 million; Digby to New Brunswick, $8.5 million; and if you look outside of Nova Scotia, P.E.I. to the Magdalen Islands, it's about $17.9 million.

[Page 3908]

My question to the minister is: Why is the international ferry link the only one that this government is going to conduct an economic study on?

THE PREMIER « » : I thank the member for this important question. Obviously this is an emotional topic for Nova Scotians. Our job as a government is to make sure Nova Scotian taxpayer money that is invested is invested with good return for the taxpayers, so we're constantly looking and making these decisions.

In terms of the member's specific question, this is the link that is funded by the taxpayers of Nova Scotia. If the federal government wanted to step up and fund this one as well, we would certainly welcome that - and maybe we could join together on that.

In terms of Nova Scotia taxpayer investments, those are where we need to focus and constantly be assessing.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : I also believe that the federal government should invest in this critical service.

If you look at the economics of the service, even with this year, the market has recovered more quickly from the Bar Harbor to Nova Scotia market than other parts of the country, which are down - when you look at the pre-COVID-19 numbers, 40 per cent to 80 per cent in other parts of the country, this one is down only about 30 per cent to 35 per cent.

If you look at the economic spend, we know based on survey data, even with the 31,000 Americans who came over this year, we're probably looking at a $40 million-plus economic spend in our province. We see that in increases in room accommodations, in RV parks, in restaurants, with our merchants, Mr. Speaker. The economic impacts are serious. We saw when we lost the ferry service the devastation that happened.

My question to the Premier is: Will the Premier please ensure that when he is looking at the economic impact study that he works with the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia to ensure that their metrics are included in the study?

THE PREMIER « » : We recently announced that there will be a full economic impact assessment on this ferry. That will happen. It hasn't happened in the past, but our government is committed to doing that.

We are sincere about that, Mr. Speaker. We want the question asked, we want to know the answer. If the member has any suggestions on the formulation of that question - who needs to be consulted, what we should be looking for - we certainly welcome that. Absolutely the tourism industry, our tourism sector is incredibly important to our overall economy. It's incredibly important to Nova Scotians; we're proud of it. We want to involve them in these types of discussions.

[Page 3909]

The economic impact assessment is a real thing, Mr. Speaker, and we're happy that it is finally happening in Nova Scotia.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : When the ferry service was lost when the previous NDP government cut it, and when we went through three seasons without the service, the economic impact was pretty serious. We initially lost, in the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores region alone, one-half of our room accommodations that shut down overnight.

I'll also remind this House that 60 per cent of the time of people who are coming over through Yarmouth from the United States - they are very high-value tourists - is actually spent in other parts of the province, all the way up the South Shore, the Annapolis Valley, Halifax, even all the way to Cape Breton.

We want to make sure that the overall provincial economic impact is looked at, recognizing that there is a larger impact in the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores regions, specifically.

My question to the Premier is: Will the Premier also look at the overall impact that this ferry service has on the province?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to assure the member that there are also many - I hear from many Nova Scotians on this route, for sure. And I hear from many members of my caucus on this route, for sure.

We are committed to doing a broad economic assessment. We are serious about doing a real economic assessment, and the points the member makes would be part of that assessment, for sure.

I want Nova Scotians to know that the growth of this province, the growth of our population, the growth of our economy - these are really important things to our government. We have a lot to be proud of in Nova Scotia. We want people to come here and enjoy it. We want them to get here in a number of different ways, but we have to do it wisely. We have to do it efficiently and effectively with taxpayer money. That's what this economic impact assessment is about.

I want to assure the member, members of his constituency, and members of the region in the province: We are sincere that this will be a broad economic impact assessment.

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

PREM.: COST OF FOOD - ACTION

[Page 3910]

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. Everyone knows that the rising cost of food is outpacing inflation. In fact, price growth for food has exceeded general inflation for 10 consecutive months, and food has become too expensive for some families.

What direct action will the Premier take for people who cannot afford to buy enough groceries to feed their families?

THE PREMIER « » : I thank the member for this important question. Affordability is a real problem in this province, across the country, and indeed, really around the world in many respects. We know the cost of food, the cost of gas, the overall cost of living is really putting pressure on Nova Scotian families, and we're deeply concerned about this.

In terms of the member's specific question about food, we're doing what we can, Mr. Speaker. We're making significant investment in food banks around this province. We're looking at a number of initiatives to support Nova Scotians. We know the cost of living is causing a lot of pain in Nova Scotian families, and we're concerned about it.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, in this House we should be working to make sure to put food banks out of business.

This government is out of touch with the needs of working families who a year ago made enough to cover their bills but now find themselves coming up short at the end of each month. Someone from Yarmouth contacted us to say that their entire monthly income is now consumed by bills, but they earn too much to qualify for any government assistance. Because of the rising cost of food, this individual can only afford to eat one meal per day. Any more increases to their bills will put them on the street. This is one of the stories we hear daily.

Can the Premier tell us when the government will stand up for working families who used to earn enough to make ends meet but now find themselves falling behind during this inflationary crisis and need help today?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to assure the member that we understand the gravity of this issue, for sure. As a government, we've taken a number of steps where we can. Government can't do it all, Mr. Speaker, but where we can, we've certainly been a government of action. We've seen that in things like the CCA wages. We've seen that in the child care agreement.

These are important steps, Mr. Speaker. They shouldn't be minimized. The Seniors Care Grant - we're doing what we can to support Nova Scotians. We know that inflation is a real problem. We know that inflation is causing pain on Nova Scotian families across this province. We will continue to look for ways to step up and support those families where we can.

[Page 3911]

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I hope that's true, because the support provided by this government so far does not help families whose incomes are being outpaced by the economic crisis.

A parent from Terence Bay told us: I'm currently on maternity leave, making $674 biweekly. While many things are going up, I'm fighting to even tread water and to keep food in the house.

Mr. Speaker, these people are not eligible for any of the government's targeted programs and are struggling with nowhere to turn. What does the Premier have to say to working Nova Scotians who are struggling to make ends meet?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, to say that the government is doing nothing would be completely false. The government is doing what it can, for sure. We have initiatives, rent supplements. We have grants. We have all kinds of things that we do to try to support Nova Scotians. Where there are gaps where people might fall through, we are always looking for ways to do that.

I want to go back to the food banks and the important service that they're providing to Nova Scotians. On this side of the House, we know that we need to . . . (Interruptions)

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The Premier has the floor.

THE PREMIER « » : What I would just say, Mr. Speaker, is that we take every effort we can to support those community organizations that step up to help Nova Scotians. We're not interested in putting anyone out of business in this province who will be there to help Nova Scotians.

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

OAMH: ADDICTIONS HUB FOR WESTERN REGION - COMMIT

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : On October 13, 2021, I asked the Minister of Addictions and Mental Health if government planned to go ahead with the Addictions and Mental Health hubs in all four regions of the province. The minister said, and I'll quote, and I'll table this: "They seem to be informed by evidence, so I would say yes." I will table that.

However, when the Spring budget came out, only three of the four regions were covered for Addictions and Mental Health. The plan for the addictions hub at Yarmouth Regional Hospital was not included in the Spring budget.

I'd like to ask the Minister of Addictions and Mental Health why that was, and if he will maintain his commitment to the Western Zone and have that addictions hub at Yarmouth Regional.

[Page 3912]

HON. BRIAN COMER » : Urgent wait times in Northern, Western, and Eastern Zones are being met 100 per cent of the time and 91 per cent of the time in Central Zone. I've had a number of conversations with my colleagues in Western Zone as well. There will be some further conversations on a recovery support centre in that region. I hope that clarifies the question.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Based on anecdotal evidence that I receive in my office as the MLA and speaking directly with the mental health and addictions clinicians at our hospital, the system at Yarmouth Regional Hospital is really overtaxed at this point. We are seeing what seems to be an increase in devastating addictions in our community, which of course impacts our community and individuals in a whole bunch of different ways.

The minister did commit to having this plan put in place fully, and again, we've only seen three of those hubs moved forward with in the Spring budget. The only one that was missing was the Yarmouth Regional Hospital in the Western Zone.

Can the minister please confirm today that the government is still committed to having that Addictions and Mental Health hub at Yarmouth Regional Hospital to support those suffering with addictions in the Western Zone?

BRIAN COMER « » : There's certainly been an increased pressure on the system with non-urgent wait times, I think, for a variety of reasons across the province. These are being addressed through recovery support centres, acute mental health day hospitals, province-wide peer support lines.

There was also $10 million dedicated to critical community-based groups across the province that deliver vital services. I've certainly had conversations regarding the Western Zone on a regular basis and I'm always open to exploring that further.

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

OAMH: C.B. PSYCHIATRIST VACANCIES - PLAN

FRED TILLEY « » : This question that I'm going to ask, a lot of people in my community have been sending me questions regarding this, so I wanted to make sure to get this question out there.

We know how important mental health is in this province. Earlier this month, Cape Breton lost two psychiatric doctors, Dr. Libbus and Dr. Milligan. Together they had 33 years of service and will not be easily replaced. I will table that document.

My question is for the minister responsible for the Office of Addictions and Mental Health: What is the plan to replace these two mental health leaders in Cape Breton?

[Page 3913]

HON. BRIAN COMER « » : I worked in the front lines with the clinicians whom he's referring to. I have a lot of respect for both of them. I'm not going to go into intentions or promise specific clinicians. I don't think that's appropriate for the House.

There won't be any closures of any in-patient beds in Cape Breton. I rectified that issue. In the very near future, we should have some exciting news hopefully for recruitment in Cape Breton. I'll update the member when I get that news, for sure.

FRED TILLEY « » : As we know currently, and I look forward to the exciting news for sure, but currently, mental health and psychiatric care in Cape Breton is hanging on by a thread. It's never been so poor. People who need mental health are being told to show up in emergency rooms and hope someone can see them. We are dangerously close to being without coverage.

When can we expect the coverage situation and this announcement to happen in Cape Breton?

BRIAN COMER « » : I think one positive thing to discuss about this is the pilot to expand rural access to mental or urgent health care for rural parts of the province, including Cape Breton and eastern parts of the province, which is being expanded currently. I think there's also a plan to have a recovery support centre in the member's riding in the coming months. Having known the people's lived experience in Northside-Westmount, I think that's a very vital resource in a community which probably should have been done a long time ago, to be honest.

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

DHW - NEED A FAM. PRAC. REG.: INCORRECT INFO. - EXPLAIN

HON. TONY INCE « » : The effects of the health care crisis are evident in every riding in this province, including mine, in Cole Harbour. A veteran in my riding is unable to access a primary health care provider. Just a couple of weeks ago, this constituent told me that they were advised by the Nova Scotia Health Authority, Central Zone that they were eligible for a family physician on August 5, 2022. This constituent was also advised that the clinic would contact them in four to six weeks to register as a patient. Almost seven weeks have passed and no correspondence. After multiple attempts to figure out what's going on, the constituent was finally given an answer - that the clinic is now unable to take them as a patient, and they are going to be going back on the registry. A senior veteran . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Question, please.

[10:15 a.m.]

[Page 3914]

TONY INCE « » : My question to the minister is: Why are people being told that they are getting a doctor only to be put back on the registry without notice?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON » : I'm not familiar with the case. It sounds like a very specific situation. I would be happy to speak to the member. I don't know the specifics. I think after Question Period would be an opportunity for us to discuss and see how we can support that individual and find out what the gap in service may have been.

TONY INCE « » : Another constituent in my riding who has chronic illness reached out to my office a couple of weeks ago also. They lost a family doctor in March 2021, and their clinic told them that in September, they would be getting a new one; however, this constituent was told while in hospital that the new family doctor would not take them on. Now the constituent, who needs regular medical care, is left without a doctor.

My question to the minister is: Does she think this is acceptable?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I think what this does - and I am sorry for the person who has not had that support - is underscore the need for the incubator clinic that we have just developed with Dalhousie Family Medicine clinics. What happens is new physicians are brought into practice in a very supportive environment. They work with a team. There is now a rapid onboarding team to support them and increase efficiencies in practices. There are two things that are happening at Dalhousie Family Medicine as proof of concept. Number one, that team has allowed them to take on 3,500 more patients, so we look at the efficiency, and then we can scale it to the practices. It also supports new clinicians - nurse practitioners and physicians - in building a practice, getting panelled up, and then moving to communities so that they're able to offer services.

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

FTB: COST OF LIVING CRISIS - ACTION

LISA LACHANCE « » : My question is for the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

I would like to share some more stories from people who have contacted our office. A maintenance worker from Musquodoboit says he doesn't have enough to make it to the next pay day and is at risk of losing everything. A single mother in Halifax with a good-paying job told us she is barely making ends meet, with the cost of groceries. Mr. Speaker, maybe this government can't do it all, but surely it can do something.

I want to ask the minister on behalf of these Nova Scotians: When can they expect this government to step in and help?

HON. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, we have certainly stepped in in the past. Before the last budget, we came out with a round of support. We know this is a worldwide problem. It's troubling to hear these stories. There are people suffering everywhere because of it. We are living in uncertain times. We have seen a significant increase in inflation in the last number of months. The central bank raising interest rates is not a nice thing to see. It is hurting people. We're also hearing about continued raises in those rates that are yet to come. We're concerned about this, and we have our eye on it. We have introduced supports in the past. We have even introduced some more recently, and we'll continue to do so.

[Page 3915]

LISA LACHANCE « » : Mr. Speaker, the minister has outlined past targeted supports previously. Inflation continues to have a serious impact on Nova Scotia seniors and low-income people, but this issue now reaches beyond these groups. Even Nova Scotians with decent wages are now struggling to make ends meet and are having to make impossible decisions. This problem is widespread and calls for relief that is equally expansive.

Mr. Speaker, is this government doing what it can? Direct support payments in other provinces are being delivered to working families. Why won't this minister help Nova Scotians who are struggling?

HON. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, the supports we've been focused on are targeted. The people who are hurting most are at the lowest income levels. We've even tried to get ahead of situations. I can think of the Seniors Care Grant increase that has been made before the Winter heating season even starts.

We're trying to get ahead of that so that we can help predict situations where people are going to be feeling the pinch, so that we can ease their situations and take some of the strain and stress that they're feeling away from them.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clare.

DHW: CODE CRITICAL - ADDRESS

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, yet again on October 9^th, paramedics were reporting a Code Critical affecting the entire Western Zone, meaning that there were not enough ambulances to cover our communities.

We have all heard the stories from our constituents who have been waiting for hours for an ambulance to arrive during an emergency. My constituents are asking, what is the government's plan to address these long wait times?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to stand up and talk about the opportunities and what we've been doing with paramedics.

We do have a working group at the Department of Health and Wellness. The Nova Scotia Health Authority sits there as does the paramedic union, as well as the College of Paramedics of Nova Scotia, and we have been able to work through some of these issues. We do have a doc in a box now - I know I've talked about that person on several occasions - able to support paramedics in the field. Four out of 10 patients who call for low-acuity calls are now triaged away from going to the emergency room.

[Page 3916]

We also have looked at a better licensing pathway for paramedics and there are a number of other initiatives that are underway. I'd be happy to talk more about those.

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : I'd like to thank the minister for her response. I hear from many of my constituents who are worried that if they have an emergency, they will not be able to get an ambulance in a timely manner.

Mr. Speaker, what assurances can the Premier give that when a Nova Scotian calls for an ambulance, they will get one in a timely manner?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Some of the other things that I would like to just let the House know about is around those transportation units that we've implemented.

The patient transfer and the multiple patient transfer units actually have reduced non-urgent transfers by paramedics from 86 per cent in September of 2021 to 25 per cent in (Inaudible) 2022. (Applause)

That's really based on the good work of the paramedics, the union, and that working group to really understand and identify ways that we can get paramedics doing the work that they have. We have world-class paramedics in this province, Mr. Speaker, and we want them to deliver care in the community.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

DHW: PET SCAN TECH. NEEDED - UPDATE

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I've asked this question every session so far and I'm going to ask it again for the families that are battling cancer at home.

Health care redevelopment continues with significant investments and support across the community. One of the things that the community has been advocating for with our new cancer centre is PET scan technology to ensure that Cape Bretoners and residents even from the eastern side of Nova Scotia would have the option to go to Cape Breton to receive that important scan as they go through diagnosis.

My question to the minister again this session is: Can she provide the House with an update on the request for PET scan technology for the new cancer centre in Cape Breton?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We continue to work with the redevelopment team and the clinicians in Cape Breton regarding what services we are able to offer there. Certainly, the PET scanner is something that continues in discussion - understanding what the utilization would be, the feasibility study, all those things.

[Page 3917]

I do want to ensure the member that we are very interested in developing the care centre in Cape Breton, which is why, while not the PET scanner, it also resulted in the cardiac catheterization lab, which is an absolutely tremendous step forward in health care.

There is more to come. We haven't made a final decision regarding that PET scanner yet.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : That announcement is actually excellent. That's why we made the tough decisions to actually go through the health care redevelopment. So I congratulate the minister on the announcement of the catheterization unit as well.

Part of the commitment from our previous government was for a PET scan at the Cancer Centre and the community now has raised $9 million for the equipment, so they are almost at their target. What they are asking for are the operational costs. We know that in other jurisdictions in other provinces, multiple hospitals have this scan technology for patients. We know that Cape Bretoners aren't making that drive to Halifax - they don't have the capacity to do it. There's so much momentum. There's so much support on the ground. Everybody has rallied to raise the money for the equipment.

Can we get a commitment today from the government that they'll cover the operation costs for the new PET scan and fully complete the health care redevelopment? You have the catheterization unit. We put the mother-infant unit in. This was one of the other requests. Can we get that commitment today?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We do continue to speak with the redevelopment team and clinicians. We're also working with Cancer Care Nova Scotia, as well as other provincial programs around the services that are provided in Cape Breton, as well as other parts of the province. We do need to look at the ecosystem of health care in this province.

I am not able to make a commitment today, but I can assure the member that conversations are ongoing.

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

DPW: WILLIAMS LAKE DAM CONSTR. - TIMELINE

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rose a few times in the House to ask the minister about the dam at Williams Lake. The construction of a new dam was an all-party commitment during the last election. The people of our community are growing more and more concerned about Williams Lake. This is an important part of our community, and the dam needs to be built as soon as possible to save the lake and the surrounding community.

[Page 3918]

I would like to ask the minister: When will the dam be built? Are we able to get a concrete timeline for the people of the community?

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : I thank the honourable member for the question. I am not surprised that he would ask this in this session because he also speaks to me outside the Chamber about it quite frequently. As the member knows, the ownership of this dam that is located within the HRM is unclear but certainly discussions are still ongoing with the HRM to address this dam.

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : I am going to pivot here for a second. Yesterday, Amanda Rafuse posted her incredible health care story on social media. Amanda needs potentially a life-saving colonoscopy. Instead of being able to get one in the province, she had to pay $1,600 out of pocket . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Your supplementary question should be a follow-up to your first question. (Interruptions)

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : I want to thank the minister for that very important information. I am wondering if the minister can give us a timeline on when she will be meeting with the HRM. Hold on, don't cut me off.

THE SPEAKER « » : I'm in the Chair, not you.

The honourable Minister of Public Works.

KIM MASLAND « » : Thank you again to the honourable member for the question. What I can assure the member - if we're talking about timelines what I'd like to talk about is I've only been in on this side of the House for a year now, not eight. But guess what? I am committed to fixing that.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

DCS: INCOME ASSISTANCE RATES - INDEX

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Community Services.

Members of this House will know that any person in this province who depends on income assistance is guaranteed to be living thousands of dollars below the poverty line. The price of groceries has risen faster than general inflation for 10 months now. These are some of the reasons why New Brunswick has decided to index income assistance rates to inflation. Will the minister index income assistance rates to inflation?

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HON. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : We know that individuals, vulnerable Nova Scotians - those who are living in poverty - need all levels of government to work with them. There are a number of different supports that they need. Just raising income assistance isn't the only thing. That's why we take a more proactive and preventive way. We have reduced child care; the Seniors Care Grant; we increased the child tax benefit this year; even through our contribution with Hurricane Fiona, over $40 million to help those most vulnerable.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : I'm guessing that's a no, but raising the index would be an improvement, Mr. Speaker.

Another punishing policy of this government is the practice of clawing back someone's income earned above their assistance. In the past, the minister has said that people living on disability can work as much as they like. This isn't particularly true. Someone who earns $350 is allowed to keep the income, but someone who makes over that, say $350.01, has to pay back a quarter of what they've earned. Incredibly low assistance rates mean that situations quickly become unworkable for anyone working or to simply afford to live.

Mr. Speaker, does the minister see that by forcing people to pay back their wages, this government makes life harder than it needs to be for a lot of people?

KARLA MACFARLANE « » : We do realize that individuals who are on income assistance, at the end of the day, truly want to be able to support themselves. That's why we have a number of programs. We have invested in more trustees to help these individuals realize that - gently transitioning into a workforce. That's why our programs are capped. They do get to a certain level, and then there is a reduction that is taken on their income, but it's very transitional, and we're very thoughtful in the process. We know that we have a lot more to do. That's why we continue to look at these programs and see where we can enhance them.

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

DPW: CONSTR. OF NEW SCHOOLS - UPDATE

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, Rockingham Elementary School was built in 1922. It's 100 years old. It was built for three hundred students and now has 700 students. That's more than double. Also, the other school in my riding, Park West, has increased to over 900 students. It was built for 590 - less than 600. Students continue to be registered at both schools.

My question is for the Minister of Public Works. We know that the province sent a letter asking HRM for land for the new school back in June. Four months have passed. Can the minister tell the House what the update is and when the parents in Clayton Park West can expect real progress on the new school and its location?

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HON. KIM MASLAND « » : I have had multiple conversations with the member opposite on this. I have also brought in my colleague, the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, on her questions. At this time, discussions about the potential site are still ongoing with HRM.

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : We have not spoken since June about this issue. Nothing has been said and we have had absolutely no conversations since June.

Mr. Speaker, the students who are attending Rockingham school have no lunchroom. There are classrooms without windows. The children take turns playing outside on the grass. Guess what they call it? Concrete time. Can you imagine - no windows and kids playing on concrete? Also, at Park West School, three classes are over cap at the moment. Our children deserve better.

To the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development: When will the residents of Clayton Park West have a new school?

HON. BECKY DRUHAN » : We have had multiple conversations about this. As the member opposite knows, we have written to HRM inquiring about and seeking to be able to use the ideal site that has been located for this particular school. A number of options are in play. The one site that we have identified as ideal is in HRM's hands. We encourage the member to encourage her community members to reach out to HRM. We await HRM's response eagerly because we want to get moving on this, and it lies with them.

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

OAMH: ER MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS - EXPLAIN

LORELEI NICOLL « » : Mr. Speaker, proper and timely mental health supports are extremely important for those suffering from mental illness. This government has said they are committed to implementing universal mental health care, but people are suffering each day. They're turning to emergency rooms for help while emergency rooms are overflowing, and health care workers are burnt out.

A constituent was suffering from suicidal thoughts. After telling paramedics they were having a crisis, they took them to the emergency room. Two hours later, they were sent home in a cab, as they didn't have the supports for them in the emergency room. My question to the minister responsible for the Office of Addictions and Mental Health is: Are emergency room staff able and expected to diagnose mental health?

HON. BRIAN COMER « » : That's a very important question. We are the first province in the country to undergo universal mental health care, so it's something we're dedicated to, for sure. I think having worked in the front lines myself, some emergency staff have some level of training for addictions and mental health, but there are certainly some deficiencies there, in my experience. I have frequent conversations with clinicians across the province, and that's something we're actively looking into right now.

[Page 3921]

LORELEI NICOLL « » : It's not the fault of the health care workers, who are doing their best under extreme pressures. However, there needs to be more done. I know, from personal experience - my story when I experienced my own mental health crisis on a trip to Cape Breton. I stopped at the Antigonish hospital in the emergency room. I was lucky to have a staff person properly diagnose what I was experiencing. This is not about luck. If it's not the emergency room where people are to go during a crisis, where are they to go? Please tell us.

BRIAN COMER « » : Thank you to the member for sharing her story. It's always difficult for people to do and I certainly appreciate that. I think if you look at the acute mental-health day hospitals, recovery support centres, there are a variety of community-based mental health clinics across the province. Certainly, I'm working as hard as I possibly can to increase this access, and community-based organizations are going to play a critical role with this. There'll be more to come with that, for sure.

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

ECC: CHIGNECTO ISTHMUS REPAIRS - TIMELINE

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : My question is to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. During this last hurricane, Hurricane Fiona, the people living in the town of Amherst and along the Bay of Fundy were holding their breath, wondering was this going to be the hurricane, the storm, where the Bay of Fundy breached the dikes, which are very vulnerable. My question to the minister is: Has he had conversations with others in his Cabinet and also with the Province of New Brunswick?

We already know that the federal government has made a 50 per cent commitment. Has the minister had conversations about this vulnerable piece of coastline, and what is the timeline to ensure there are repairs made?

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, this is a very important question. We know climate change is impacting our province in a dramatic way, certainly, in the short term. We know the impact of that on our coasts. We know the impact of that on flooding. The long-term projections of the impacts of climate change will also manifest themselves through increases in temperature.

With respect to the Chignecto Isthmus, yes, certainly. That is a conversation that we've had within the government. It's a conversation that's taken place between the Government of Nova Scotia and the Government of New Brunswick. I want to assure the honourable member that is a file that is being looked at.

[Page 3922]

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : The report - the study that's been done - shows that it's going to cost between $200 million and $300 million to do the repairs. The federal government has made a commitment of 50 per cent. So even if our province paid half, we're looking at around $75 million. There's $35 billion worth of goods that travel the Chignecto Isthmus every year. It's a critical piece of infrastructure for CN Rail and the Trans-Canada Highway. I think most of us would agree that taking a preventive, proactive approach is going to cost this government a lot less money.

Will the minister commit to ensuring that this $75 million or plus will be budgeted in this Spring 2023 budget for Nova Scotia?

TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Certainly, we fully understand, as a government, the significant implications of climate change on multiple parts of our society and our economy. The Chignecto Isthmus is certainly one of them.

As we move forward to complete our climate plan and put out our climate change risk assessment, we'll have much more to say as we move forward to support Nova Scotians as we adapt and mitigate to the realities of climate change.

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

SNSIS: FIXED-TERM LEASE RULES - CHANGE

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services.

An increasing number of landlord-tenant disputes involve tenants who face huge rent increases in ways that are very hard to challenge because the tenants have signed fixed-term leases. In many of these cases, tenants are offered new fixed-term leases when the old ones expire, provided that they agree to whatever increase the landlord chooses, thereby getting around the rent cap.

This is not how it's done elsewhere. In B.C., for example, leases are not allowed to include clauses requiring a tenant to move out at the end of the term. We know there's a place for fixed-term leases, but surely landlords ought not in this way to be able to use them to get around the intention of the rent cap.

Will the minister change the fixed-term lease rules so that they can no longer be used to force people from their homes?

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : I thank the member opposite for the question. I appreciate the fact that he does recognize that there are purposes for fixed-term leases. As I stated earlier this week, for example, students who travel to another part of the province to learn at a post-secondary institution or folks who come in from out of province to work.

[Page 3923]

Mr. Speaker, when I look with staff to modernize the Residential Tenancies Act, we continuously look at balancing the rights, needs and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. That's something that I'll continue to do.

GARY BURRILL « » : Perhaps I've not made the question adequately clear. Surely the minister is aware that there is a considerable increase in the number of tenants who are being forced from their homes in situations involving fixed-term leases. Surely the minister is aware that this has to do with strategies being employed by landlords to use the fixed-term lease provisions in order to circumvent the very honourable intention of the rent cap. I want to ask: Does the minister not acknowledge that this is taking place? Is the minister not aware that this is taking place? If the minister acknowledges it and is aware of it, what is he going to do about it?

COLTON LEBLANC « » : When we look at the nearly 4,000 applications that have come in through the Residential Tenancies Program this year - I want to recognize that there's a small minority of tenants and landlords who do not follow the rules. Again, the vast majority of Nova Scotian tenants and landlords do follow the rules.

Again, I'll share for the House that when I bring forward legislation to this floor when it comes to this Act, we continuously look at balancing the rights, needs and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Preston.

DHW: WOMEN & GENDER-DIVERSE CARE - PRIORITIZE

ANGELA SIMMONDS « » : Mr. Speaker, currently Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada only has one endometriosis expert equipped to treat and practice exigent surgery, being at the IWK. The newly established multi-disciplinary endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain unit already has a wait of one year or more to get in. To the Minister of Health and Wellness: What is the government's plan to recruit more endometriosis experts and improve endometriosis care in Nova Scotia?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : There are a couple of things there. First of all, it is a very specific subspecialty, so the pool of individuals who can be recruited to that position is difficult, first of all. That's one thing.

I did have the opportunity to visit the clinic and talk to the clinicians there. We have added some resources to support them in terms of triaging patients. We're also looking at how we can support regionally based OB/GYNs to support care in community. We continue to watch the wait-list at that clinic. We continue to talk to the clinicians who work there to better understand what the needs are and how we can better serve Nova Scotians.

[Page 3924]

[10:45 a.m.]

ANGELA SIMMONDS « » : I thank the minister for the update and appreciate the difficulty in that.

I'd like to ask: What is the commitment in improving access to, and funding for, women's and gender-diverse care in Nova Scotia? Currently, the wait-time for a gynecologist or specialist for women's health is averaging two years, compared to that of a 78-day wait-time for a urologist for prostate cancer.

I've met with a few women who are actually experiencing this difficulty and feel that they're not being made a priority. I just want to ask the Minister of Health and Wellness: When will women and gender-diverse communities feel that they'll be a priority in Nova Scotia?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We do know that gynecologists and obstetricians are a priority profession that we do need to recruit to the province. I think there are a couple of things. It's really important that we look at the wait-lists in the regional sites as well and make sure that we're supporting our primary care providers to use the fullness of their scope so that things are not referred unnecessarily to OB/GYNs regionally and therefore then referred into.

It is an ecosystem of women's health care across this province and gender-diverse folks. We are looking at increasing capacity, just right front facing at primary care levels through the regionals and back into the IWK.

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

DPW: PROV. CONTRIB. TO BEDFORD FERRY - INCREASE

BRAEDON CLARK « » : Mr. Speaker, the cost of the proposed Bedford ferry has gone up significantly over the last year. I'm sure the Minister of Public Works is not surprised by that. The cost of basically all major infrastructure projects is up significantly over that period of time.

The HRM Regional Council has sent a letter to the Province and has indicated they are willing to step up and fund the increased staff, but staff at the HRM are saying it's unlikely that the Province will put more money into this project.

I would like to ask the minister if she would she be willing to up the province's contribution to this project and help the thousands of people from Sackville to Clayton Park who would use this service every single day.

[Page 3925]

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : I thank the honourable member for his question. I know this is something that he has been following very closely and he is very passionate about for his constituents and, quite frankly, for all of Bedford and Sackville. I will assure the member that we are aware of the revised costing, and we are working very closely with the HRM and the federal government.

BRAEDON CLARK « » : I thank the minister for that response. As I've said in the House in the past, this ferry would really be a transformational investment - not just for Bedford but for Sackville, Hammonds Plains, Clayton Park, and Fairview. It would help the climate crisis in our province. It would provide people with a fantastic means of getting around our city, that has been talked about for decades.

This provincial government is still sitting on tens and tens of millions of dollars in federal transit funding that could be used for important projects like this. Already this morning we've heard the minister commit to fixing a dam. I'd like to ask if she would commit to building a ferry.

KIM MASLAND « » : Maybe I'll get the new title, Ms. Fix-It. Again, thank you to the member. We know this is an important service and a tremendous interest for a lot of people. I will commit to the member that discussions will continue and let's hope for the best.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Annapolis.

DHW - URG. TREATMENT CTRS. IMPACT - DISCUSS

CARMAN KERR « » : Mr. Speaker, along with hospital emergency departments, EHS is a crucial partner in emergency health care throughout our province. This government has shut down our emergency centre in Annapolis. The hours in Middleton are dramatically reduced. This puts enormous stress on the EHS and our paramedics.

At recent public information sessions, Nova Scotia Health Authority representatives could not answer questions about the EHS and told hundreds of people - I was in the room - that they have zero information to pass on.

My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is: Did the Department of Health and Wellness and the Nova Scotia Health Authority discuss with the EHS how transitioning to an urgent treatment centre would impact emergency hours in Middleton and how it would impact emergency care in my community?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I do want to assure the member that on the day of that meeting, EHS representatives were not able to attend.

To the earlier point, it's really important that we move away from just one size fits all. Transfer units, as an example, are very important. It frees up paramedics to respond to emergencies.

We are also looking at how we can best utilize the doc-in-the-box, the medical coms person. They are actually just in the process of hiring a registered nurse to work in coms as well. What that does is it allows paramedics to respond, treat and triage, if possible, or actually transfer at a later time, with some advice and discharge for the patient.

There are a number of initiatives under way in order to support communities with emergency services.

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

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

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

[10:50 a.m. The House recessed.]

[11:33 a.m. The House resolved into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Lisa Lachance in the Chair.]

[11:59 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Deputy Speaker Angela Simmonds, resumed the Chair.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. The Chair of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:

THE CLERK » : That the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports significant progress on Bill No. 196.

THE SPEAKER « » : The House will now rise. We stand adjourned until Monday, October 24^th at 5:00 p.m.

[The House rose at 11:59 p.m.]

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