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HALIFAX, THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2023

Sixty-fourth General Assembly

First Session

9:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Keith Bain

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Lisa Lachance, Kent Smith, Danielle Barkhouse, Nolan Young

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

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

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

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, visiting us today in your Speaker's Gallery is Tom Wallace. There is a last name that evokes a battle cry. Mr. Wallace is president of the Federation for Scottish Culture in Nova Scotia. Gaidheal McIntyre is with him, and she is the Federation's vice-president. I would ask everyone to extend them a round of applause. (Applause)

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THE SPEAKER « » : We welcome you and all visitors to the gallery today. Enjoy your stay with us.

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

RESOLUTION NO. 618

HON. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, the Federation for Scottish Culture in Nova Scotia encourages people to learn more about culture and identity in Nova Scotia. Those who value music, culture, Gaelic language and fellowship are invited to join as a member of the federation. I thank them for being with us today.

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

Whereas Tartan Day was chosen to be held today, on April 6^th, by its Nova Scotian founder, Jean Watson, in tribute to the Declaration of Arbroath, which was made on the same date in 1320; and

Whereas Scottish Gaels created, through their cultural practice, a process of weaving material from wool, upon which they dyed patterns referred to as breacan (tartan), and through their Gaelic language give us the terms am féileadh mór (the great kilt), am féileadh beag (the little kilt) and féileadh bhreacain (belted plaid), and through their bàrdachd (Gaelic poetry) praised the wearing of tartan as a badge of identity; and

Whereas tartan was once banned as one of many measures designed to break up Gaelic society and life, which became part of the immigration story for many Nova Scotian families;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Làtha a' Bhreacain as a day to celebrate the traditional dress of Scottish Gaels, and to better understand why tartan remains an important badge of identity for Scottish Gaels.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

I think it was only fitting that the member for Inverness was the one who read that, because I think the Gaelic words - no one else could handle them. We could try, and destroy them.

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

RESOLUTION NO. 619

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

Whereas Logan Boulet's decision to be an organ donor, and make his wishes known to his parents just prior to his tragic passing in the Humboldt Broncos' bus crash in April 2018, inspired almost 150,000 Canadians across the country to register as donors; and

Whereas more than 4,300 people in Canada are waiting for an organ transplant, and an average of 250 people die waiting, and one organ donor can save up to eight lives; and

Whereas April 7^th, Green Shirt Day, raises awareness for organ and tissue donation, encourages all Canadians to talk with their loved ones about their wishes, and honours Humboldt Broncos Logan Boulet's legacy, and the victims and families of that fatal crash;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the importance of organ and tissue donation, encourage all Nova Scotians to express their wishes, and honour the legacy of Logan Boulet and the victims and families of the crash.

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 Advanced Education.

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HON. BRIAN WONG « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

BRIAN WONG « » : Visiting us today in your gallery, the Speaker's Gallery, I am honoured to introduce some very special guests. With us today are three Ukrainian students who came to Nova Scotia with Mitacs internships who are studying at Dalhousie University: Kateryna Rudenko, Artem Kichydzhy and Yaryna Tylchak.

Mr. Speaker, these individuals brought an exhibit to Saint Mary's University called Unissued Diplomas which honours the memory of Ukrainian students who will never graduate because their lives were taken by the Russian invasion. Here in Canada, it's hard to grasp these atrocities, but it's important that we hear these stories to remind us that freedom cannot be taken for granted. We must honour the memory of these students.

For these students in the gallery to be here, continuing their studies and bringing us these important stories, shows incredible courage and resolve. I ask them to please rise and accept the warm welcome of this House. (Standing ovation)

THE SPEAKER « » : Indeed, a very warm welcome to the three of you. Enjoy your stay at Province House.

The honourable Minister of Advanced Education.

RESOLUTION NO. 620

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

Whereas the people of Ukraine are demonstrating profound courage and resilience in their fight for freedom against the unjust Russian invasion; and

Whereas three Ukrainian students who came to Nova Scotia with Mitacs internships - Kateryna Rudenko, Artem Kichydzhy, and Yaryna Tylchak - brought an exhibit to Saint Mary's University called Unissued Diplomas, which tells the stories of 36 Ukrainian students who have been killed by Russia's invasion; and

Whereas the creation of this exhibit and its displaying in Halifax helps tell the story of the true cost of freedom, the atrocities being committed by Russia, and the identity of the culture of Ukraine;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature remember these 36 Ukrainians with unissued diplomas and their families, friends, and communities, and thank the three students who brought this display to Nova Scotia. (Applause)

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Mr. Speaker, I request 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. 621

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

Whereas St. Peter's Fish Hatchery is a long-time employer in Cape Breton, a training ground for aquaculture technicians, and has had a key role in the development of Nova Scotia's aquaculture industry; and

Whereas Bobby Cotton of St. Peter's is a pioneer in fish farming in Canada and has been involved with the local hatchery since 1988, and has held various roles at the facility over the years, including being a business partner and manager; and

Whereas Bobby was instrumental in expanding the hatchery into saltwater grow-out in the Bras d'Or Lakes, and he has supported sector growth by being active in the Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia and has been part of many research and development projects;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in recognizing Bobby Cotton for his 35-plus years of significant contributions to the aquaculture industry and wish him well in his recent retirement.

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

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

Is it agreed?

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It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition on an introduction.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Before my colleague introduces a bill, I'd like to make an introduction to the House.

In the West Gallery, we are joined by Kathy MacNaughton, advocate from Westville, Nova Scotia, who worked with Minister Sean Fraser to federally entrench legislation for 26-week serious illness leave in honour of her late partner David, who braved a courageous battle with cancer.

We are also joined by members of the Canadian Cancer Society, Heather Mulligan, manager of advocacy for the Canadian Cancer Society, and her son Jack, who has joined her today. We are also joined by Kelly Wilson Cull, director of advocacy for the Canadian Cancer Society, who is also here with her children, Spencer and Nora.

I'd like all members of the House to join me in welcoming them to the House and thanking them for their work to ensure that we have 26-week serious illness leave here in Nova Scotia, as well. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Once again, we welcome all visitors to the gallery today and hope you enjoy your stay.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 306 - An Act to Amend Chapter 246 of the Revised Statutes, 1989, the Labour Standards Code, Respecting Serious Illness Leaves of Absence. (Hon. Kelly Regan)

Bill No. 307 - An Act to Provide Access to Health-care Records. (Carman Kerr)

Bill No. 308 - An Act to Amend Chapter 10 of the Acts of 1994-95, the Workers' Compensation Act. (Kendra Coombes)

Bill No. 309 - An Act to Create a Provincial Agriculture Growth Strategy. (Hon. Keith Irving)

Bill No. 310 - An Act to Amend Chapter 475 of the Revised Statues, 1989, the Trade Union Act. (Kendra Coombes)

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[9:15 a.m.]

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 622

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

Whereas this government has put forward a resolution that would restrict the member for Cumberland North from representing her constituents; and

Whereas this is an undemocratic abuse of power, and no elected member should be subject to such treatment while doing what they were elected to do; and

Whereas the government would be setting a dangerous precedent by using a majority to censor an elected member of this House;

Therefore be it resolved that Resolution No. 598 be struck from the Orders of the Day.

I ask for waiver of notice and passage without debate.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a request for waiver. Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes. The motion is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 623

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

Whereas spouses of veterans who marry after the age of 60 are not entitled to the automatic survivor pensions under the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act which are available to the spouses of veterans who marry prior to the age of 60, despite the fact that the federal Liberals promised to eliminate the clause which enables this inequity, Section 31(1) of the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act, and despite the fact that instructions to this effect were included in the 2015 and 2017 mandate letters to the Minister of Veterans Affairs; and

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Whereas the Royal Canadian Legion, the National Council of Veterans Associations in Canada, and the Armed Forces Pensioners'/Annuitants' Association of Canada have all called for the elimination of the clause, which disproportionately affects a province, such as Nova Scotia, with a large veteran population; and

Whereas the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs has recently examined this issue and recommended the federal government repeal the clause in light of its sexist character and its additional inappropriateness in a time when veterans are living much longer than was the case over a century ago when the over-60 exclusionary policy was first established; and

Whereas the clause discriminates most particularly against senior women and pushes them into a life of poverty when their partners pass away without being able to leave them provided for with survivor pension benefits;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly refers to the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs for its consideration of the issue of Survivor Pension Benefits (Marriage After 60) and instructs the committee to provide recommendations to the Minister Responsible for Military Relations on how the government of Nova Scotia can most constructively align itself with the recent initiative of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs on this issue of such significance to veterans and their families in Nova Scotia.

I request waiver of notice and passage without debate.

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes. The motion is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Before I read my member statement, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, visiting us today in your gallery, the Speaker's Gallery, is the Anglican Diocesan Bishop the Right Reverend Sandra Fyfe. Bishop Fyfe was rector of the Parish of Horton St. John's Anglican Church in Wolfville, where she has served since 2009.

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A graduate of Queen's College, St. John's, Newfoundland, with a Master of Divinity, she was ordained deacon in 2000 and priest in 2001. She has served as the curate of St. Thomas' Anglican Church, St. John's, Newfoundland, rector at Christ Church, Shelburne, and Priest-in-Charge of the parishes of St. James Anglican Church in Kentville. At Lockeport-Barrington, she was Archdeacon of the South Shore Region until 2009, and Archdeacon in the Annapolis Valley Region until 2017.

The Right Reverend Sandra Fyfe was elected on September 12, 2020. Bishop Fyfe was consecrated and installed as the 17^th Bishop of the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island on November 30, 2020. It is a particular pleasure for me to introduce Reverend Fyfe, due to the long family connection that my family and her family have through Lewisporte, Newfoundland. I ask her to rise and accept the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Once again, we welcome you and all visitors to the House today.

The honourable member for Kings North.

EASTER: CHRISTIAN CELEBRATION - WARM WISHES

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : This weekend, Christians around the world will celebrate Easter. The resurrection represents Christ's victory over death and the promise of eternal life for those who follow him.

At this time of hope and optimism, renewal and salvation, Christians seek to follow Christ's example of love and sacrifice. As Holy Week comes to an end, I know that Right Reverend Sandra Fyfe will be ministering to congregants and celebrating this most important time in the Christian calendar.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of this House to join me in sending warm wishes for a joyful and blessed Easter to all who celebrate.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, before I read my member's statement, I would like to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : I beg leave to introduce the House today to Matthew Welsh, Shae Demale, Justin MacPherson, and Andrew Coxhead. If you can please rise and accept the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

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These are students at Saint Mary's University who are making headlines with their incredible talents, both on and off the ice. I am so happy they could make it here, during exam period no less, to be here for this member's statement.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth.

STUDENT ATHLETES: ACHIEVEMENTS - CONGRATS.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our incredible student athletes in Nova Scotia. We are fortunate that Nova Scotia universities continue to attract some of the brightest minds and talented athletes in the country and the world. Student athletes balance rigorous training schedules, academics, and many hold part-time jobs. Athletics play a key role in the university experience and the athletes are at the centre of school pride and spirit.

This past Winter we had athletes from Saint Mary's University and St. Francis Xavier University represent our province on the world stage at the 2023 FISU games. It is safe to say that they represented us well. While there were teams from over 50 different countries, our athletes from men's and women's hockey won first place and received gold medals.

I want to congratulate the Nova Scotia students on Team Canada: Matthew Welsh, Andrew Coxhead, Justin MacPherson, Liam Hawel, Maggy Burbidge, Matthew Struthers, Lea MacLeod, and Shae Demale. I want to invite the rest of the House to join me in celebrating these athletes for their outstanding achievements, both on and off the ice. Thank you for bringing home the gold to our province. We are all so very proud of you.

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

PASSOVER: JEWISH HOLIDAY - BEST WISHES

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the beginning of Passover last night. Jewish communities around our province and around the world gathered around the Seder table to celebrate the Festival of Freedom and Perseverance, as many will again tonight. Passover, or Pesach, commemorates the biblical story of Moses and the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their journey to freedom.

We tell this story, the Haggadah, so that we remember and so that our children remember both the hardship and the liberation. In 2023 we see a rise of anti-Semitism globally and at home alongside a broader rise of hate and intolerance. As legislators we must take seriously our responsibility here in the House and in the communities we represent to stand against prejudice, hatred, intolerance, and exclusion.

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I want to thank the President of the Atlantic Jewish Council, Arik Drucker, and the members Roni Omessi, Joanna Mirsky Wexler, Naomi Besser, and Aviva Rubin-Schneider for joining us yesterday to mark this important holiday. I ask all members of the House to join me in wishing a Happy Passover to all those observing. Chag Sameach.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Shelburne.

WORLD HEALTH DAY: ADDRESSING INEQUITIES - RECOG.

NOLAN YOUNG « » : Mr. Speaker, in recognition of World Health Day tomorrow, I rise to celebrate the remarkable advances that have been made in improving health care worldwide, and there is a lot of work being done right here in Nova Scotia. Our government's goal is more health care, faster, and we are making great strides in that direction, from health care clinics at community pharmacies to expanded services, such as dialysis and eye surgeries, to opening a new medical school at Cape Breton University.

This year's World Health Day theme is Health for All, which emphasizes the need to address health inequities and ensure that everyone has access to the health care they need. Equal access to health care is paramount for our health care system. There is improved care for our gender-diverse residents, investment in training for African Nova Scotian social workers, and the start of a new practical nursing program to train 30 new L'nu students each year.

On this World Health Day I invite all members of this House to join me in celebrating health care advancements that are ongoing right here at home and around the world.

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

WELSH, MATTHEW: ATHLETIC ACCOMPLISHMENTS - RECOG.

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding athlete, student, volunteer, community member, advocate, and all-around great guy. Joining us here today, as our Leader mentioned, is Matthew Welsh. Matt was always a student to watch. He has a drive to succeed in just about every facet of life. He is a passionate hockey player, bringing his heart and soul to every game. He plays for Saint Mary's but recently travelled with Team Canada University to the FISU, where they won gold against an international roster of teams.

Matthew's accomplishments span off the ice as well. He volunteers with Hockey Gives Blood, an initiative to raise awareness surrounding the importance of donating blood. Because of his efforts, he was recognized as the Student Athlete Community Service Award winner for the 2021-22 year. This award is given to the player who best represents the spirit of intercollegiate hockey by his leadership both on and off the ice and by his conduct throughout the season.

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[9:30 p.m.]

Matt is a wonderful young man. I've been so lucky to watch him grow up. We have shared some awesome chats in the backyard and I'm looking forward to seeing what he does in the future. And looking forward to more country music and campfires in the backyard this summer.

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Joining us in the gallery today is Michelle Rivoire and Thivjan Tharmaratnam from the John W. Lindsay YMCA, the new Halifax Y here in Halifax Citadel-Sable Island. I'd ask them to rise and accept the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Once again, we welcome all visitors to the gallery today.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

RIVOIRE, MICHELLE: LINDSAY YMCA GEN. MGR. - RECOG.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Mr. Speaker, everyone in this Chamber can agree that finding a good, accessible space for events is paramount to successful community outreach. It's also important to have an ally at these spaces to make sure your event runs without a hitch. For my office that ally is Michelle Rivoire, General Manager of the John W. Lindsay YMCA.

Michelle's hospitality and professionalism show every step of the way whenever we need a bright, accessible space to connect with community members. Her skills also translate to excellent service from all of the Y staff, from facilities to the front desk. Michelle is the perfect example of leading by example.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing Michelle's hard work to make the John W. Lindsay YMCA a welcoming space for all and a community cornerstone in Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

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

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EASTER: CHRISTIAN CELEBRATION - RECOG.

CHRIS PALMER « » : I, too, rise today to recognize this week of prayer and reflection, this Holy Week for Christians all over the world.

Holy Week is a spiritual journey that began this past Sunday, Palm Sunday, when Jesus's final entry into Jerusalem is remembered and moves on to Holy Thursday, Maundy Thursday for a lot of people today, where it is believed Jesus celebrated his Last Supper and instituted communion for the Christian Church.

Good Friday is a period of solemn reflection on the Passion, crucifixion, and death of Jesus. The week then culminates in joyous celebration on Easter Sunday, when the resurrection of Jesus is recognized and Christians all over proclaim, He Is Risen.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members of this House to join me in wishing all Nova Scotians a blessed Holy Week and a joyous Happy Easter. May the hope that this weekend symbolizes ring in the hearts of all.

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

HON. KEITH IRVING « » : I'd like to direct the House to the West Gallery, where we are joined by Margaret Schleier Stahl. Margaret recently moved here from Ontario. She ran for the Liberals in a southwestern Ontario seat. It's her first visit to the House. I can relay from her that her first impression was that the pictures on the wall downstairs did not have a woman, and she felt that that should change, and she might just apply for the job.

I'd ask her to stand and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Once again, we welcome visitors, and you may be sorry that you're even thinking something like that in this place.

The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.

BLUEPRINT CONSTRUCTION: BUILDING HOMES - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Daniel Burke of East Dover.

After a long career in residential construction, Daniel and his partner established a local business called Blueprint Construction in 2016. The business partners started by recruiting staff they knew and worked well with on previous projects. The early years of Daniel's business consisted of large-scale renovations and building new homes. Their work soon transitioned to mostly new architectural homes, many of which are passive homes.

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Daniel has worked with the region's leading architects and has designed Blueprint Construction to fill the gap required by homeowners and architects who are searching for high performance, expect fine craftmanship, and who insist on a level of communication that is hard to come by in the industry. Daniel and his team pursue projects that require a high level of sophistication, skill, and managed execution.

I'd like the members of the House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Daniel for his entrepreneurial spirit and for following his dream to create dream homes for people in his community.

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

VOLUNS.: SPEED SKATING EVENTS - RECOG.

GARY BURRILL « » : A special congratulations is due to the organizers and volunteers of the Halifax Canada Games Venue Operations Team on the success of the long-track speed skating events that were held in February at the Oval.

The logistics of carrying out events for a single sport in an entirely different province from the main Canada Games were certainly considerable - 80 speed skaters out of the 3,600 overall athletes at the Winter Games moved to Halifax between the opening and closing ceremonies on the Island - with a separate athletes' village, an outdoor temperature-sensitive venue with a separate operational infrastructure, et cetera. Yet the events, the 500 metre, the 1,500, the 3,000 and team pursuit all went off without a hitch.

Speed skating fans who came out for the long track events at the Oval found lots to take in and cheer about, and Nova Scotia owes its appreciation to the network of volunteers who did such an outstanding job to bring it off.

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

CUMB. CO. COM. FUND SOC.: FOUNDING - RECOG.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I rise today to recognize the founding of the Cumberland County Community Fund Society. The society was recently registered under the Societies Act of Nova Scotia and is set to sign an agreement with the Communities Foundation of Nova Scotia.

In Cumberland County we are fortunate to have the Christie-Smith Community Fund as administered by the Dr. and Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation. Over the years they have provided thousands of dollars to local groups to support a wide variety of projects and programs that benefit our community. Thanks to two very generous benefactors, the Christie-Smith group has financial backing that will support their work into the future.

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While the Christie Community Foundation and the Christie-Smith Fund do excellent work, they are not what is defined as a community foundation, primarily because they don't have the ability to accept new funding. For that reason, a group of local individuals set about to establish a community fund.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the founding members of the Cumberland Community Fund Society: Morris Haugg, Jamie Goodwin, Dennice Leahey, Thomas MacLaren, Denise Smith, Mark Carter, Charles Ellis and Lisa Emery. I want to thank them for this new initiative and their commitment to Cumberland County.

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

TARTAN DAY: CELEB. OF SCOTTISH HER. - RECOG.

JOHN A. MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, as you may have noticed by looking around the Legislature, today is Tartan Day. I rise to celebrate the rich Scottish heritage that has helped shape our province. Nova Scotia has a deep connection to Scotland, from our province's name to our flag, to having the second largest number of Gaelic speakers in the world, to the many Scottish festivals and events that are held throughout the province.

Tartan Day is a reminder of the many contributions that the Scottish immigrants have made to our province. Their hard work and determination have helped to build the communities we now love and live in. From the coal mines of Cape Breton and Pictou County to the shipyards of Halifax, Scottish Nova Scotians have played a vital role in our province's growth and development.

Let us remember the deep cultural ties that bind us to Scotland. The bagpipes, the kilts, and the tartans are all part of our shared heritage. Today we celebrate that heritage and the contributions of Scottish Nova Scotians.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join us in paying tribute to those celebrating their Scottish heritage and to the deep and lasting bond that we share. Happy Tartan Day.

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

MACNAUGHTON, KATHY: EI SICKNESS BENEFIT ADVOCACY - RECOG.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kathy MacNaughton of Westville. Kathy is a tireless advocate and the Nova Scotian behind Canada's largest expansion to the EI sickness benefit in recent decades. In 2014 Kathy's partner, David Fraser, learned he had esophageal cancer on his 50^th birthday. David was a skilled carpenter and he took a great deal of pride in providing a life for his family, so when he was no longer able to work and his benefits ended, his cancer journey was filled with worry about how his family would make ends meet and pay their bills.

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Before he passed, Kathy promised David she would fight to have his life remembered by changing access to the EI sickness benefit so that no one else would go through what he did. This was the start of David's Cause.

After many years of advocacy and with the leadership of the Canadian Cancer Society and the support of her MP, Sean Fraser, Kathy's promise was realized last Fall, when the federal government expanded the EI sickness benefit to 26 weeks - the first time since the 1970s that the benefit had been changed.

Kathy knows that her partner David would be proud of her, and we are, too. Mr. Speaker, I think all members of this House and all Nova Scotians owe Kathy a debt of gratitude, and we thank her for her tenacity and dedication. (Standing ovation)

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

LEWIS, WANDA: QPJ MEDAL RECIP. - CONGRATS.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Wanda Lewis, a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal, which was presented in December 2022 in Halifax Needham.

Mrs. Lewis has dedicated her life to education and community. When she was a schoolteacher at Joseph Howe Elementary, she always was a caring and loving person to her students, whom she called her children. I was extremely honoured to present this medal to her, as she has helped to raise so many of us in our community.

Whether it was as a parent of the children's choir at church, a leader of the Canadian Girls in Training, or just being Mrs. Lewis, her loving and caring nature was what some of us kids needed to get us through.

I would like all members to join me in congratulating Mrs. Wanda Lewis for her long-standing and continued work in education and community.

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

EASTER: CHRISTIAN CELEBRATION - RECOG.

LARRY HARRISON « » : I rise today to celebrate the events of Holy Week. This weekend is considered to be the lifeline of the Christian faith. God came in human form, Jesus, to show us how to live in relationship with God, and also with each other.

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On Good Friday, Jesus took our misdeeds upon himself so that we can move on without being burdened. It is like starting all over fresh. On Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the grave, showing us that even death is conquered, that out of the ashes of our failures and death, rebirth is there for all of us.

Our lives go down many roads, some of them safe and good, some of them dangerous and not so good. What God did for us on Good Friday and Easter allows us the opportunity to change direction if we so choose. Be assured that we can find rebirth in our lives now, and also when we die.

Mr. Speaker, Easter is a time to reflect and to celebrate what God has put in place for us. God bless all of you this weekend.

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

JOSEPH, BLAIR: CONTRIB. TO HOCKEY - RECOG.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise in my place today to recognize someone whom you know very well, and many of the Cape Bretoners know, and many people who are involved with the game of hockey. That is Blair Joseph from Sydney, affectionately known as Bearcat to many folks who know him.

Blair has had a long history in hockey in our community, not only as a player but as a coach. He came from a very large family of hockey players, the Josephs. Blair has been an inspiration and a mentor to thousands of kids in our community whom he coached, whether he coached them in minor hockey, at the junior level, at the university level, or with the Eagles.

Blair is loved by our community. He's into a big battle right now. Blair has been recognized nationally on Hockey Night in Canada for his contribution to the game. Blair is in a fight, but he's a fighter. He was a former boxer before he was a hockey player.

As I said, he meant the world to me as a kid. He played hockey with my uncle - whom I never met - with the Cape Breton Post Bombers and told me some of the greatest stories about an uncle whom I never knew.

I rise in my place today to recognize my friend and to recognize someone whom we all love and to remind him that his entire community is behind him. I want to encourage him to keep fighting. He's been a fighter his entire life and he has his whole community behind him.

[Page 5720]

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

ORGANIZERS: AFRIC. HER. MO. PROCLAM. EVENT - RECOG.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : On Friday, January 27^th, the Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs, in partnership with the Glace Bay Universal Negro Improvement Association Hall, hosted the 15^th annual African Heritage Month proclamation.

Organized in Cape Breton by Chantel Reid Demeter and Lillian Marsman - both with ANSA - the Cape Breton proclamation is always led by African Nova Scotian youth, who are the future. Mr. Speaker, I love attending this event every year.

The proclamation was emceed by Sydney Academy student Jackson MacDonald. Sisters Hunter and Kenya Estwick sang the Black national anthem. Kiana MacDonald wowed the room with a poem that she read entitled "Diversity." There was also a potent libation, and African drumming ceremony conducted by the Drummers from Home.

We called upon a senior and respected elder in our community, Ms. Sarah Hayward, and when the official business was finished, we had a taste of culture, which was catered and served by another outstanding African Nova Scotian youth, Riley Hollohan.

It was beautiful and I thank everyone for organizing and for all those participating.

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

LOWE, DAWN: NURSE PRACTITIONER WORK - THANKS

MELISSA SHEEHY-RICHARD « » : Mr. Speaker, on April 7^th, World Health Day will observe its 75^th birthday. I rise today to commend the consistent effort and determination of nurse practitioner Dawn Lowe.

Dawn played a key part in the establishment of the Hantsport Collaborative Practice, which opened its doors in July of 2008, with Dr. Iona Wile as the physician and Dawn as the registered nurse. She later furthered her education and role at the practice to become a nurse practitioner. 

Since opening its doors in 2008, the practice has undergone many changes. Dawn faced each new hurdle with a positive attitude and often takes on a heavier workload outside her paid workday. I can quote her husband and the community in saying she cares more about her patients than she does for her income.

Dawn is a compassionate, caring, and kind human being. She is a prime example of the type of person we need working on the front lines in our health care system.

[Page 5721]

[9:45 a.m.]

Please join me in thanking Dawn Lowe for all that she does for her patients and for a job well done.

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

SMITH, LLOYD: 45 YRS. AS TOWN CRIER - RECOG.

HON. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm proud to say that Kings South is home to one of the most accomplished town criers in North America, reaching this year the remarkable milestone of 45 years serving the Annapolis Valley.

In 1978, Lloyd Smith, a resident of Wolfville, was unexpectedly entered into a town crier competition in Windsor with no prior experience. Despite this, he took on the role with great enthusiasm and has been serving as town crier ever since. His signature call of "Oyez, oyez, oyez" is a proud tradition that he delivers with his booming voice and which is sure to capture your attention. For 45 years, Lloyd has fulfilled many important duties, from local parades and celebrations to representing our community during an ambassadorial visit to Bermuda in 1983 and an ambassador tour and competition in Jever, West Germany.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly to join me in congratulating Lloyd Smith on his 45 years as town crier in the Valley and thank him for keeping this important tradition alive.

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

LEBLANC, TANYA: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, several years ago when we debated a bill in this House on National Cancer Survivors Day, I spoke about my sister-in-law Tanya Leblanc, who was a survivor of more than 20 years. Last July, Tanya was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer, and she died on December 11^th.

In the months between her diagnosis and death, Tanya lived her life to the fullest. She enjoyed the Summer, visiting with countless friends and relatives. She went to Montreal with her besties for a fun weekend trip. She celebrated her 50^th birthday with a wonderful Hawaii-themed party. A bunch of us went to Toronto for Christmas craft fairs, where she got to visit with her precious nieces, who live in Ontario. Most of all, she spent as much time as she could with my brother Doug; her beloved boys, Ben, Gabe, and Malachi; and her mom, Glenda.

Words can't describe the feelings of gratitude for her life or the feelings of grief that she is gone. I'll just say she is deeply missed, and I want to take a moment to thank all of those who work to eradicate cancer, and to everyone who supports those who live with it and who die with it.

[Page 5722]

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

JOHN WHITE « » : Mr. Speaker, before I read my statement, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : No, you're not allowed. (Laughter) Yes, by all means.

JOHN WHITE « » : I've been told no many times in my life.

Mr. Speaker, joining us today in the Speaker's Gallery are my two daughters, Robyn and Kennedy White. Mr. Speaker, Kennedy lives with us at home. She is starting her education degree in May. She is very much a hero in our family just for the way she looks after my dad in the nursing home - looked after him well. Robyn is a pharmacist and just this December she started a new position as a pharmacy manager here in Halifax. Within her first days of working, someone came in and told them there was somebody overdosing in the alley behind the store. Robyn went out, found the person unresponsive, administered naloxone, and started chest compressions, and got the girl back to life until paramedics showed up and looked after her.

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

WHITE, ROBYN/LEBLANC, RYLEY: ENGAGEMENT - CONGRATS.

JOHN WHITE « » : On behalf of Bob and Tracey LeBlanc of Yarmouth, and my wife Junie and me, it gives us great pleasure to announce the engagement of Bob and Tracey's son Ryley LeBlanc to our daughter Robyn White.

Robyn and Ryley make a beautiful couple, each complementing the other. I know they would have beautiful children but right now they say all we are getting is a fur grandbaby, who is Finley. He's a beautiful dog, but Ryley and Robyn, come on.

Junie and I were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Robyn and Kennedy, and we are extremely thankful. However, I always wondered what it would be like to have a son. Now Ryley is absolutely filling that void for us, and we already love him like our own. We are proud of his accomplishments. He is smart, thoughtful - very thankful for him - but most importantly, he truly loves Robyn. I know they have a love that will grow because I've seen the way they look at each other.

Mr. Speaker, I ask members of this Legislature to join us in wishing the best for Robyn and Ryley. Congratulations to you both.

[Page 5723]

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

O'NEILL, AMY: FLUTE INSTRUCTION - RECOG.

ALI DUALE « » : That was a wonderful introduction, John. I'm grateful sometimes to have this space to acknowledge those who make us to be here. Thank you, John.

Today I would like to recognize Amy O'Neill of O'Neill Flute Studio. With almost 30 years of experience as a private instructor, Amy O'Neill is an active member of the Nova Scotia Registered Music Teachers Association. She has been performing across North America and Europe as a classical and traditional Irish flutist.

Amy now uses all that experience to teach children and adults and shares her joy of music with the community.

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Dr. Rohini Bannerjee is joining us today in the West Gallery. Dr. Bannerjee is Associate Vice-President, Diversity Excellence and professor at Saint Mary's University. I invite her to rise and accept the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

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

BANNERJEE, ROHINI: FRENCH INSTRUCTION - RECOG.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Monsieur le président, l'enseignement de la langue française est un des éléments les plus importants dans notre système éducatif. Les éducateurs qui nous enseignent cette langue sont également importants.

Donc, aujourd'hui, je veux donner mes meilleurs remerciements à la docteure Rohini Bannerjee. La docteure Bannerjee est professeure de langue et littérature françaises à l'Université Saint Mary's. En tant que quelqu'un qui a appris le français comme langue seconde, elle engage ses étudiants chaque jour et leur apprend son amour et sa passion pour la langue et la culture francophones. Elle enseigne aussi le seul cours de littérature francophone de l'océan Indien à l'est de Montréal.

Je demande à mes collègues la reconnaissance de la dédication de Dr. Bannerjee dans le monde académique et francophone et son enseignement extraordinaire.

[Page 5724]

French language instruction is one of the most important parts of our education system. The educators who teach the language are equally important. Today, I'd like to give my warmest thanks to Dr. Rohini Bannerjee. She is professor of French Language and Literature at Saint Mary's University in my constituency.

Dr. Bannerjee learned French as a second language. She engages her students and teaches them her love and passion for French language and culture. She also teaches the only course east of Montreal on French Literature of the Indian Ocean.

I ask my colleagues to recognize Dr. Bannerjee's dedication in the academic and Francophone spheres and her extraordinary teaching.

THE SPEAKER « » : I do have to say it's a good thing we're in the Easter spirit, because there have only been about three members' statements that have been within the time limit.

The honourable member for Cape Breton East.

TOBIN, KATHLEEN: DEDIC. TO MOTORCYCLE RACING - CONGRATS.

HON. BRIAN COMER « » : I rise today to congratulate Kathleen Tobin of Sydney Forks.

Kathleen, who is 33 years young, just started her off-road motorcycle racing career at the age of 28. Since she started racing a few years ago, she has reached many milestones and achievements, with the most recent being her upcoming national debut with the BETA Canada racing development team in British Columbia.

Kathleen will also return to Battle of the Prospectors in Murdochville, Quebec as the defending expert woman champion this Fall. She has also registered for her first U.S. race, which is taking place the end of May.

Not only is Kathleen an exceptional rider, but she is also a member of the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association board of directors. As well, Kathleen is known and well-respected in her community, and most recently joined the great team at Cabot Powersports.

I stand here today to applaud Kathleen on her commitment and dedication, and best of luck at the races this weekend.

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

[Page 5725]

LOCAL HOCKEY TEAMS: CH'SHIP PERF. - CONGRATS.

HON. BEN JESSOME « » : Hockey is a big part of the culture in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville, and I want to congratulate two teams that recently won Atlantic championships. That's the U15 Major Gulls and the U13 AAA Metro West Force Warriors female hockey teams.

I want to congratulate all the players, the coaches, the parents, and the supporters who put so much time and effort into this season. Evidently, an Atlantic championship is a big deal. I want to congratulate both teams and their players.

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

EASTER: CHRISTIAN CELEBRATION - RECOG.

SUZY HANSEN « » : I have to agree with Mr. Speaker when he says there's a lot of celebration today. I'm so grateful to hear the Holy Spirit touching this room in more than one way.

I also want to recognize that whatever way we may celebrate this long weekend, I hope that all families take the opportunity to spend that time with each other, and be cautious and careful, and really embrace each other during this time. For some, it is for grieving, for some it is for celebration, but know that you're with family, and that's important.

I want to say a huge Happy Birthday to my daughter Sijora Aylena Hansen, who was born on April 6, 2014. She was born on a Sunday. I could have made it to church, but I did not. At 10:51 a.m. - she was 5 pounds, 14 ounces.

I just want to say to my daughter, who is home today, that I will be home to make sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, and a leg of lamb for you later.

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

EASTER: CHRISTIAN CELEBRATION - RECOG.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I just want to echo the comments of the member for Halifax Needham and wish everyone a happy Easter.

I want to also say thank you to the incredible team that I have working with me. First of all, my family: my husband Murray, and my children - it's not been an easy week for them - Thomas, Matthew, Joel, and Sharon. I appreciate their restraint and their self-discipline. I also want to thank my constituency assistants, Dan Gould, Hannah Landry, Ann Ketty, and Gladys Coish.

[Page 5726]

I wish everyone a happy Easter.

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

HON. KARLA MACFARLANE » : We have some really special guests here in the West Gallery. Many would know Jenni as Jenni Edge, who worked years with the PC caucus. She is now Jenni Sherry. She's with her three lovely boys. I'd ask that she stand with Sully, Mac, and Allister, the newest addition. (Applause)

We miss Jenni. We miss her so much, but it's really nice to have you here, and to know that you are still part of the PC party. Your support and love mean everything to us. It's just really great to see her so happy with a beautiful family.

We welcome her here today. We'll see you shortly.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Richmond.

MARCHAND, CLAIRE: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to commemorate the life of Claire Marchand of Louisdale.

Claire was married to Wilfred for 60 years and was the mother of five children, grandmother of seven, and great-grandmother of one. She passed away on February 21^st at the age of 78.

Claire was well known in her community of Louisdale and throughout Richmond County. She was a very active member of the Louisdale Lioness Club and the St. Louis Parish Council, and was president of the Richmond County Seniors' Council.

Claire started the Prayer Shawl Ministry with her husband Wilfred, and friend Rose Marie Samson. Their gifts were given to the homeless, injured, and ill across the country. She was recently awarded the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers by the Governor General of Canada, and her proud family were fortunate to present it to her before her passing.

Please join me in honouring the life of Claire Marchand and passing condolences to husband Wilfred; her children, Shelly, Terry, Barry, Kelly, and Joey; and the entire Marchand family.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Shelburne.

MOTHER - BIRTHDAY WISHES

[Page 5727]

NOLAN YOUNG « » : I just want to wish my mother a happy birthday today. (Applause)

[10:00 a.m.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Getting that in so quickly might have just saved your family.

Order, please. The time for Statements by Members has expired.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM: HEALTH CARE PROBLEMS - ADDRESS

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, this government was elected on a promise to fix health care but continues to ignore the overall health and well-being of Nova Scotians. When asked about the failings of this budget, this government has continuously said this is a health care budget. However, what I don't think this government understands is that you can't deal with health care unless you deal with people's health.

This government needs to understand that the social determinants of health impact the overall health care system, and the longevity and life of Nova Scotians. By ignoring the cost of living we are in, this government is actually going to continue to make things worse in our health care system. If you face food insecurity, your overall health is worse. I'll table that. If you are experiencing poverty, your overall health situation is worse. If you are in a precarious housing situation, your overall health is worse.

Does the Premier understand that fixing health care actually means addressing some of the root causes of the health problems that people have in this province?

HON. TIM HOUSTON (The Premier) » : Mr. Speaker, of course the member raises the serious issue around the overall social determinants of health. We are very focused on the overall health of Nova Scotians, for sure. The budget before this House has a number of investments across a number of departments. I am proud of the work that the Minister of Community Services is doing in conjunction with the Minister of Health and Wellness, and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

The budget speaks to all of the issues that the member has raised. I would never want to be a part of a government that doesn't want to do more, and try to do more for Nova Scotians. Of course, we want to do more for Nova Scotians, but we are doing what we can today. We will continue to work with Nova Scotians to move this province forward in every possible way.

[Page 5728]

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, this health care budget froze social assistance increases in this province for the second year in a row - during two of the greatest increases in inflation. This budget also changed the amount of people who are eligible for housing supplements, which this government has bragged about. This budget did nothing to address food insecurity in this province.

This week, the Minister of Community Services said that everybody knows that this is a health care budget, and when we have good health care in Nova Scotia, everybody benefits, even our most vulnerable. However, what the minister failed to recognize is that access to health care is only one of 10 universally recognized social determinants of health. Again, we had no increases in social assistance for two years in a row when those individuals were faced with the greatest increases of cost pressure.

Will the Premier actually start bringing in some meaningful measures that will help individuals dealing with this cost crisis?

THE PREMIER « » : You know, we can go around in circles, and the member can try to convince Nova Scotians that this government is not investing in Nova Scotians. I don't accept that. Nova Scotians don't accept that.

He referenced the rent supplements. There are more rent supplements in this province now than there ever was. We added a thousand more this year. The amount that is going into rent supplements under our government, it's a multiple of what was in there under his government.

Yes, we want to make sure we are focused on the most vulnerable. Yes, there was a policy change to make sure that the most vulnerable go to the top of the list. We will continue to do that. We will continue to invest in Nova Scotians. To those Nova Scotians, I want them to know we look at targeted supports in how we can best help people. The member can disagree how we go about it . . . (Interruption)

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : The most vulnerable in our province are those who are on social assistance, and this government has frozen their rates of pay for the last two years. I wonder if the Premier knows that the most acute cases that are actually in our health care system now come from individuals who are under financial pressure, and from the lower incomes in our society. I wonder if the government even knows that.

The government doesn't have to look too far. Actually, I have an example of what a good government does when it comes to health and well-being. Newfoundland and Labrador tabled a budget called Your Health. Our Priority, which is also focused on health care, but includes cost of living measures, including increasing payments for those on income assistance, and the construction of more than 850 new, affordable housing units.

[Page 5729]

There is nothing in this budget to address these things. Will the Premier please make his suggestions before this budget is passed?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, at some point the Opposition will decide the direction they want to go. They haven't decided yet. Yesterday, the member for Kings South was saying we are spending too much, we are fiscally irresponsible - spend less on Nova Scotians. Today, the leader of the party is saying, you're not spending enough.

We are investing in Nova Scotians. That's what Nova Scotians asked us to do, and we will continue to do it. I hope the member can find the courage to support this incredible budget that's before this House right now.

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

PREM.: CLIMATE CRISIS - TACKLE

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to ask about this government's failure to act on climate change. Last week, we were shocked to hear the Minister of Environment and Climate Change walk back a timeline to proclaim the Coastal Protection Act. He doubled down last night in Estimates - a piece of legislation which has seen ongoing consultation since it was passed in 2019 with all-party support from this House.

The minister revealed recently that this was prompted by questions and correspondence from coastal landowners. In response, the minister has decided to pause the rollout until he receives that buy-in. While the minister waits for buy-in, landowners are taking advantage of this delay to advance dangerous developments on our coast.

Why is the Premier allowing developers to dictate when we protect our coastline?

THE PREMIER « » : The work that the Minister of Environment and Climate Change is doing is leading the country. The legislation that we tabled with the goals - that leads the country. We are committed to preserving this planet.

This province is surrounded by 13,000 kilometres of coastline. We love our shorelines, our beaches, our incredible hiking trails. Nova Scotians hold our coastline very, very dear, as do we. We understand the climate is changing. We understand that the severity of the storms is intensifying. We know that there's work to be done. The minister is doing that work, and I support him in every aspect.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Let's be clear: Our 13,000 kilometres of coastline are not protected - even though there's an Act that protects them - because this government is dragging its feet.

[Page 5730]

Nova Scotians know that it is necessary to meet our climate targets to prevent climate catastrophe. Despite these strong goals and targets, and the numerous actions laid out in the climate plan, our path from here to 2030 is very unclear. What needs to happen by 2024? 2025? This week, we heard from the Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables that the government's plan to meet these targets is to double down on biomass and natural gas. More carbon, more fossil fuels.

This government can say all the right things, but their actions tell a different story. How can the Premier say he's tackling the climate crisis without any credible path to 2030?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, there's certainly a transition before us. There's no question about that. Our grid in 2030 will look different than it does today. We have to understand that it will be different, and there will be multiple parts to our grid.

We'll have a discussion about how much solar. We need batteries. Legislation just passed through this House. How much wind? How much hydro? Wouldn't be nice if Muskrat Falls finally delivered for Nova Scotian ratepayers? There's a lot to discuss on that. It sits right at the feet of the NDP government when the Muskrat Falls debacle really began.

We know the grid will change. There will be some biomass on the grid. There will be - might even be nuclear. We're open to all these things, because we know its important that we get it right.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : So no plan. Forty-three per cent of our province's total greenhouse gas emissions come from electricity generation alone. I'll table that.

We must stop burning coal in order to meet our climate goals, and the Premier has the duty to find a credible path to do this. However, the Premier said yesterday, of the only researched and costed plan to do this, "I would say I'm not optimistic about the Atlantic Loop."

The Premier must put forward a path to getting this province off coal. If it's not the Atlantic Loop, I'd like him to tell us what it is.

THE PREMIER « » : There's some pretty serious paraphrasing happening right now, first on the minister's behalf there, and certainly on mine.

I'm not optimistic about the Atlantic Loop. I'm not shy about that. I'll be optimistic when the federal government comes forward and says that they will pay Nova Scotia ratepayers the same respect that they pay to Newfoundland and Labrador ratepayers. The federal government has a role in this.

The NDP has a role in this too. They started that Muskrat Falls situation, and a lot of this rests at their feet.

[Page 5731]

But we're looking forward. We know that transition is difficult. We know there's going to be some highs and low on that path, but we are committed to getting there. That's what matters to Nova Scotians.

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

DHW: ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE - INCREASE

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : All this government can do is brag about how much money they're spending on health care. They cannot point to outcomes that are improving for Nova Scotians. While they say that access is improving in Nova Scotia, let's go over the facts on that.

Emergency room closures have doubled in the last year under this government. The doctor wait-list, Mr. Speaker, has doubled under this government. The demand for virtual care is so high that appointments are almost unattainable. The mobile clinics are in such high demand that people are waiting hours to see a health care professional. It's next to impossible to get into a walk-in clinic, the ones that are, of course, even open, because we've had so many close.

How can this government say that they are laser-focused on access to care when Nova Scotians are losing access to care every single day under their regime?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : In the last 18 months, we have been laser-focused. We've been laser-focused on improving access through things like our VirtualCareNS. We've increased the number of providers and we expect to have over 40,000 more appointments in primary care by the end of August, with our improvements.

We have community pharmacies, Mr. Speaker, that are seeing a number of people every day, making a big difference in Nova Scotia. We've enabled nurse practitioners in this province to be able to deliver more autonomous primary care. The list goes on and on.

We've been looking at scopes of practice, ensuring that folks can use their skills to the best and highest ability. I'm very confident in our ability to deliver for Nova Scotians, as we have in the past 18 months. We will deliver in this mandate.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to remind the House of a quote from the now-Premier, when the doctor wait-list was at 50,000 people without a family doctor in Nova Scotia:

"Mr. Speaker, the person that is responsible for making sure there's access to health care in this province is the Premier. …when you look at what's happening in this province, with 50,000 Nova Scotians without access to primary care, paramedics at their wits end, somebody has to stand up and accept responsibility for that issue."

[Page 5732]

I'll table that.

Now, with over 130,000 Nova Scotians on the doctor wait-list - I'll table that - and more paramedics leaving their practice than ever before in our province - I'll table that - as the Premier once said, somebody has to stand up and take responsibility.

Will the Premier now stand up and take responsibility for the failures of this government when it comes to fixing our health care system?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I'll refer back to my epic yellow papers, Mr. Speaker.

What I would like to say is that wherever there's something positive, the folks across the way want to take credit for it. Let me just tell you: reduction of budget in 2014-15 for EHS, 2015 Department of Health spending reduced, active living budget reduced, primary care budget reduced. In 2016, the Department of Health and Wellness budget.

I'm a great Minister of Health and Wellness, I'm going to tell you, Mr. Speaker. But I can't undo eight years of reductions in 18 months, despite how hard I'm trying.

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

DCS: INCOME ASSISTANCE - INCREASE

HON. BEN JESSOME « » : Mr. Speaker, to make Nova Scotia healthier we need to decrease food insecurity and increase income assistance. This PC government is making political choices not to do so.

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Can we stop the banter going back and forth?

The honourable member for Hammonds Plains-Lucasville has the floor.

BEN JESSOME « » : They did, however, choose to add $1.6 billion this year in unchecked spending and present a budget that does not increase income assistance to help our most vulnerable, nor does it provide financial supports that are meaningful for middle-class Nova Scotians. This budget is a choice to make Nova Scotia unhealthier and a violation of human rights. Why can't the PC government understand that leaving people in poverty and food insecurity will cause health outcomes to get worse?

[10:15 a.m.]

[Page 5733]

HON. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : I think this budget does speak volumes, even under my department. We've increased our budget by $82 million. We look at those who are struggling in Nova Scotia and they all have different needs. We have increased a lot of things around disability. Early intervention and prevention have been increased by $12 million. We've increased supportive housing. It alone has seen millions and millions gone into helping shelters and other organizations in Nova Scotia. We'll continue helping our food banks as well. We'll do whatever we can to make life easier for Nova Scotians.

BEN JESSOME « » : This government boasts about piecemeal funding, like a one-time change to the Heating Assistance Rebate and a change to the Child Benefit that misses 75 per cent of income assistance clients. There are additional rent supplements, but they changed eligibility that leaves so many behind. Nova Scotians need access to social services to improve their quality of life. We're speaking about dependable programs, not exclusionary ones that leave people behind. If the PC government can choose to spend $1.6 billion without oversight, why have they been deliberate in overlooking so many who are fighting to get ahead?

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I'll put our rent supplement program up against any province in the country. We have the most generous, if not one of the most generous rent supplement programs. We're working, we've doubled the money in that, and we've doubled the number of recipients. We're working hard. We recognize the needs out there, and we do care. (Interruptions) We are helping across government.

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Order, please. The honourable minister once had the floor.

The honourable member for Bedford South.

MAH: RENT SUPP. ELIGIBILITY CHANGE - EXPLAIN

BRAEDON CLARK « » : Earlier in Question Period, the Premier said that the changes to the rent supplement program were to help those Nova Scotians who were most in housing need, yet the reality is that a Nova Scotian who spends 49.9 per cent of their income now is no longer eligible for a rent supplement.

I would like to ask the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing if he agrees with the Premier that someone in Nova Scotia who is paying 49.9 per cent of their income on rent is not most in need of support.

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased again to talk about rent supplements. When we came into government, we looked at rent supplements and most of them were not portable. We made them portable - our rent supplement program is portable, meaning the person receiving them can choose where they want to live. We've continued to add funding to rent supplements. We now added $21 million more, to almost $50 million a year. It's a massive investment. We have one of - if not the best, one of the best programs in the country. It is very accessible. We'll stand by that. We are helping Nova Scotians.

[Page 5734]

BRAEDON CLARK « » : We learned during Budget Estimates that the number of people applying for rent supplements in the last six months of last year doubled from 200 to 400 a month and rather than look at that obvious need for housing support and request a significant expansion to a budget, this government is spending hand over fist all over the place, but the one place where they do not seem to have an interest in spending money is in helping people who need it the most. I would ask the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing once again: Once he realized that the demand for the program was so high, why does he not ask for the money to allow the program to stay at a reasonable level of 30 per cent of income?

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the fact that we are adding $21 million into the rent supplement budget this year. I hope you will support our budget and vote for that. It would be a shame if you vote against this budget because this budget is adding money - $21 million into rent supplements; record increases in the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing, a $153 million increase in this department, over $200 million in the last two years to do things like fund housing; Tartan Downs, $22 million for modulars. We're doing all kinds of things, Mr. Speaker, and I hope the Opposition will support our budget.

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

DOJ: POLICING STRATEGY - UPDATE

SUZY HANSEN « » : While the spirit is moving, my question is for the Minister of Justice. A key piece of work that the community has been asking for is an African Nova Scotian policing strategy. We need this because in the words of the Halifax Chief of Police, Dan Kinsella, the actions of police have had a negative and deep impact on generations of the African Nova Scotian community and disproportionately on Black men. I am tabling that. Can the minister confirm that the African Nova Scotian policing strategy is an urgent priority for this government and please tell the House when it will be in place?

HON. BRAD JOHNS » : Of course, the member does know that the Department of Justice is committed to the African Nova Scotian Justice Action Plan and we are working with a variety of groups, of course ANSDPAD and others, and we are continuing to move that forward. I guess to answer the question is: Yes, it is.

SUZY HANSEN « » : My next question is for the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs. Despite months of work by an all-Party committee and many hours of community input, the minister has tabled another budget with no specific funding for a strategy to address racism and hate. Perhaps one of the reasons why there doesn't seem to be progress on this file is because there's no public oversight of the work.

[Page 5735]

Despite the minister and the member for Eastern Shore expressing openness to the idea of a standing committee in the Legislature, and they both will say they don't recall saying that, which is why we pushed for a committee, so that we can have more open transparency to the public. My question is: How are we going to make progress on addressing racism in this province if we don't fund the work?

HON. PAT DUNN » : Over the past 18, 19 months, through ANSA and the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, we have been very involved with all the communities across the province, 50-plus historic African Nova Scotian communities. There has been a transformation within ANSA itself. The staff is not only working out of their office here, we've been engaged with communities across the province. We've been in many communities across the province, from Yarmouth to Sydney. We have encouraging comments coming from the communities, saying to us that finally someone is listening to us.

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

DHW: PALLIATIVE/HOSPICE CARE - FUND

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : We continue to hear from health care professionals and Nova Scotians that the current state of hospice and palliative care is inaccessible and the programs are in disarray. There is simply not enough support for those who want home-based hospice or palliative care.

It truly is devastating that in the final days of those who are chronically ill, they are not able to receive palliative care or hospice care. Palliative and hospice care are vital supports to both the patient and the family, and money should have been included in this budget to support and expand palliative and hospice care.

Why did this budget not include support so those who are chronically ill and want to die peacefully can?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Certainly, we know that there are some areas across the province where there are some staffing issues that absolutely impact those folks who are waiting to receive and wanting to receive palliative care, particularly in their homes. We will continue to work with our communities to better understand how we can support.

I do want to acknowledge that there has been some investment made in oncology, particularly the Oncology Transformation Project. We're also looking at some chronic disease programs to support people in community who are living with chronic disease, life-limiting diseases. The work definitely must continue, and I thank the member for bringing this to the floor.

[Page 5736]

KELLY REGAN « » : I just want to say, we need the minister to do more than just look at them. We need her to increase the budgets for them.

We also know that ER deaths have gone up in the last year. I'll table that. We want those who are at the end of their lives to be able to have as much choice as possible in the decision-making process, but without the resources, many will not have the option of palliative and hospice care and may end up in the hospital or ERs. Will the Minister of Health and Wellness ensure that the department will expand palliative and hospice services so more Nova Scotians and their families can go through an incredibly difficult time in a more dignified way?

HON. BARBARA ADAMS » : As you know, the Department of Seniors and Long-term Care and the Department of Health and Wellness work together to provide home care services. I am excited for Estimates so that I can talk more about all of the expansions to the home care programs that we have put in place this year. I can reassure the member that the historic increases in home care also go to those most vulnerable and in need of palliative care services.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clare.

DHW - CLARE HEALTH CLINIC: FUNDING REQUEST - UPDATE

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : The Municipality of Clare is in the process of expanding their collaborative care health clinic. To my knowledge, it's the only health centre in the province that offers services in both English and French. This expansion will provide doctors to most if not all residents in Digby County and will provide additional on-call services. The minister did visit the centre in July, and I appreciated that. Can she give us an update on the funding request that the municipality has submitted?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I did enjoy my visit, and it's certainly a very progressive clinic, doing a lot of wonderful work there and providing great services to the community and surrounding areas. We do have that proposal in the department, and we are reviewing it, looking at the requests, and we will be in touch with the municipality to discuss it further.

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : This is an extremely important project for the municipality of Clare and, I'd argue, the entire region. It's going to take thousands of people off the doctor wait-list. With the on-call services, it does provide relief for the ERs in Yarmouth and Digby, and I hope this project can be supported by the government. Can the minister provide a timeline as to when the municipality will get an answer?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We are currently reviewing that. I don't have an immediate timeline, but it is under review right now in the department.

[Page 5737]

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

DHW: BREAST RECONSTR. SURGERY - FUND

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, a long-time friend of mine from Cape Breton, Danielle, was diagnosed at a young age with breast cancer and, thankfully, she's in remission, but she still has not been able to get breast reconstruction surgery due to the impacts that radiation has had on her chest. Survivors of breast cancer who've had radiation have further complications when they need to get breast implants because their chests are concave. Currently, implants are covered by MSI, but autologous fat grafting post-operation is not. Other provinces, such as New Brunswick, cover these surgeries. My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is: Will this government expand MSI coverage so breast cancer survivors can get fat-grafting surgeries post-op?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We are always looking at the things that are covered through MSI - a better understanding, what are the new and emerging technologies, treatments, and therapies for individuals. I will go back to the department and find out a little bit more about this and understand where we are in terms of the review.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, this is something I never realized we didn't cover either, and it's something that impacts a lot of women. I'm getting a lot of calls from home. Danielle's been championing this cause for a lot of women on the Island. She's happy to talk to the minister or anybody who wants to talk to her about this. This is something that I think the government could easily cover as part of the coverage. Another issue that Danielle and I've talked about, as I've said - she's also championed earlier access to mammograms.

We've brought this up before in this House, and we hear all too often that women under 40 have more of a challenge in accessing mammograms. After noticing a lump, Danielle had to advocate, to push for her doctor to get a mammogram and, as we all know, if caught too late, women under 40 can be more prone to having a worse prognosis of breast cancer. Can the government give us an update on what they're doing to ensure that women under 40 have more access to mammograms when they need it?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We are looking at our screening protocols. There are clinical guidelines that we follow, and we do look to the experts in cancer care and screening to understand when and where we should change our protocols. We will continue to work with our physicians and nurses and experts in cancer care to better understand when and how we should be screening for a variety of cancers throughout the province.

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

[Page 5738]

NRR: WEST MABOU BEACH PROV. PARK - PROTECT

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. The Ecology Action Centre is asking people to write to the minister about the development threat at Mabou Provincial Park. As they explain:

"Protected should mean protected. End of story. And yet, an American billionaire golf course developer is once again trying to swindle away the West Mabou Beach Provincial Park to develop a private 18-hole golf course. This legally protected and ecologically sensitive area is part of the mere five per cent of Nova Scotian coastline that is protected public land. We cannot afford to lose it to private development."

Will the minister promise that Mabou Provincial Park will not be turned into a golf course?

HON. TORY RUSHTON » : As I've been very clear in the media, very clear in any of the letters that we've received in the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, there has been no application from any developer on this piece of land. As it stands right now, that park is still a park. It will remain a park, but there's been no application as to this date.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mabou Beach Provincial Park is a very special place. A 2019 study by Alain Belliveau of Acadia University commissioned by the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society found the unique sand dunes and wetlands contained at least 17 rare plants and animals, including four birds that are listed under the provincial Endangered Species Act. This is why Nature Nova Scotia and many others have asked the Province to unequivocally reject the idea of a golf course at Mabou Beach Provincial Park. We know there is no formal proposal before the Province right now, but we also know that the developer is working hard on this.

This is why the minister should stand up and be very clear that Mabou Beach will never become a golf course, and I invite him to do that.

[10:30 a.m.]

TORY RUSHTON « » : What I can be clear about is that, as I said in Estimates the other night, the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables gets about 2,000 applications for differing abilities for Crown lands throughout the whole province. As we go through those applications one by one, Mr. Speaker, we make sure that Nova Scotians get the Crown lands, the protected areas, the economy, and the recreational development that they want to see within our province. There has not been an application for that. If there is an application that comes in, we will deal with that application. As of now, we can't go on stories or myths that an application will come in.

[Page 5739]

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

DHW: CGMs PILOT PGM. - CONSIDER

BRAEDON CLARK « » : Mr. Speaker, the issue of continuous glucose monitors is one that has come up in the House here a few times. I know that the Department of Health and Wellness is studying the issue at the moment. Recently, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in its budget this year, introduced a pilot program to test CGMs in that province. I'm wondering if the minister would consider doing that here in Nova Scotia as a means of giving us some real-world data in the province, which I suspect would be very favourable.

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We have talked about CGMs before. There is an active review going on in the department right now to better understand that real-world data and understand how best - if and when - it could be implemented in Nova Scotia. I would say, more to say, but certainly it is on our radar in the Department of Health and Wellness, and we are actively looking at that program.

BRAEDON CLARK « » : This past Fall, the federal government tabled the diabetes framework. Now it's incumbent on provincial governments to implement that framework to prevent more people from being diagnosed with diabetes and also improve access to care. Diabetes affects almost 12 million Canadians and costs the health care system about $50 million to treat every day in Canada. I'll table that as well. By implementing the framework, it will help not only those managing diabetes but also lessen the strain on our health care system. I would like to ask the Minister of Health and Wellness: Will the department follow the lead of the federal government and implement the diabetes framework?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Particularly with type 2 diabetes, we look at the opportunities to support people in prevention. Type 1 diabetes has a different etiology, is what I would say. We are working across government, looking at ways in which all departments can support. We look at how we're supporting children through the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and certainly with our colleagues. We are looking at that framework to better understand how it is applicable to Nova Scotia.

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

DHW: INCLUSIVE HEALTH CARE - IMPLEMENT

HON. TONY INCE « » : Mr. Speaker, another key social determinant of health is social inclusion and non-discrimination. The Nova Scotia Brotherhood and Sisterhood Initiatives provide culturally appropriate primary medical care plus health and wellness services. When I asked the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs about funding for this important initiative, I was told to direct my question to the Minister of Health and Wellness.

[Page 5740]

So, to the Minister of Health and Wellness: How is this government going to make the work of both the Brotherhood and Sisterhood Initiatives proper and relevant to the community to ensure funding remains and that the program is able to expand across the province?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We have increased funding for primary care for African Nova Scotians through additional funding for the Brotherhood and Sisterhood, a total of $242,900 this year. We're also doing some work around the experience of Indigenous and African Nova Scotian patients. We're looking at investing $1.3 million in dedicated Indigenous and African Nova Scotian health consultants across the province.

We are also looking at adding additional spaces for high school students to consider health care as a career, investing $30,000 to support and improve representation in our health care system. Also, a multi-year funding for the Health Association of African Canadians has been stabilized at $275,000 per year.

TONY INCE « » : Race-based data is something that the community and the African Nova Scotian Affairs Office has been working on for many years; in fact, it's been over 20 years. This issue is of critical importance to the community, making health care more equitable and diverse for Nova Scotians. Again, in Estimates, the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs was not able to give me an update on the status of the race-based data, and I was referred to the Minister of Health and Wellness again. So, Minister of Health and Wellness, my question is: When will we see race-based data implemented in the Nova Scotia health care system?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Based on consultation with the community, race-based data collection is now called the Fair Care Project throughout the province, and it was actually launched in October of 2022. There have been approximately 40,000 Nova Scotians who have provided their information to the Department of Health and Wellness. So the project is under way, and we're working throughout the province with historic communities to understand how best they can use that information once we have more data collected.

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

DHW: ACCESS TO MIDWIVES - INCREASE

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : In November 2021, I asked the Premier to commit to increasing funding for midwives so that we can reduce the wait-list and expand access to areas of the province that have no access at all, like throughout the whole Valley and the whole of Cape Breton Island. His response was, and I quote, not paraphrasing, "We're happy to work with him on that to make sure that that's balanced across the province." I'll table that.

[Page 5741]

I was disappointed to see two budgets go by with no more funding to increase the actions for Nova Scotians despite the evidence of how much health care outcomes improve for parents and newborns. This also increases access to doctors currently caring for those with low-risk pregnancies.

When will the Premier increase access to midwives in this province?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I thank the member for the question. I know it's a passion of his to ask every session.

We are looking at educational opportunities. There's a review that's happening in Newfoundland and Labrador to look at educational opportunities. We know that there are not a lot of midwives, and certainly we are looking at stabilizing our current workforce before we're able to expand.

We continue that work to better understand how best to stabilize, looking at educational opportunities in order to consider how we may expand the program in the province.

IAIN RANKIN « » : If stabilization is the issue, then I believe that a symptom of that is a lack of funding. Why can't the government create training opportunities right here in the province where we have more universities per capita than anywhere else in the country?

The Ford government in Ontario just announced another $16 million to increase access and remuneration for midwives. That government clearly understands midwives provide exceptional care for low-risk pregnancies, freeing up doctors' time to focus on the high-risk pregnancies.

I'll ask the Premier again: Both Opposition parties are here ready to work with them - when will the government members step up for midwives in this province and increase funding?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : As I told the member opposite, there is a review of education under way right now. It's being led by Newfoundland and Labrador. We're anxious to hear about the results from that review to understand about how best to educate midwives in Atlantic Canada. We also have been looking at how to best utilize midwives throughout the province, and certainly we're very fortunate that midwives have contributed to the unattached baby clinic. We certainly are supporting midwives' scope of practice and helping connect them with mums and babies who need attachment. We are looking at how to expand that program as we move forward.

[Page 5742]

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

LSI: APPRENTICESHIP FUNDING - INCREASE

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Yesterday I tabled a petition from many members in our community about the lack of housing and the need for support. I am also hearing from contractors, and they are saying that they could build more housing faster if there was more support for those in the apprenticeship trades. In particular, what they are looking for is more funding, increased staffing. When they look at their colleagues across the border in New Brunswick, there's a lot more staff there to support both the students in trades, as well as the contractors.

Today I am asking the Minister responsible for the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act: Would they commit to increasing the funding so that we can better support our trades students as well as contractors?

HON. JILL BALSER » : Thank you to the member opposite for this really important question. We know the demand on skilled trades is high and we also know that there are many young Nova Scotians who want to come back home and work. I am really pleased and proud of the department, because there is an increase in this budget that is dedicated to the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency. We have turned temporary positions into permanent, so we have an increase in staff. There is also a focus on modernizing the Apprenticeship Agency so we can make sure that more people entering are successful all the way through to completion, of course so they can work here in Nova Scotia.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Just as we all love the minister, I can say that our contractors and students love the staff who are working in the Apprenticeship Agency. Anytime they speak to me about the deficiencies, they always emphasize that they are very appreciative of all that the staff do and feel that any of the deficiencies are not the fault of the staff - they just feel there needs to be more of them. For example, sometimes students are waiting up to four to six weeks to hear back. Also, in New Brunswick, the staff are visiting on site, so they come to the site, they come to the contractors and to the students.

Another challenge is the students having to leave communities for up to six weeks, versus training being able to be in the communities.

Would the minister commit to providing an officer in Cumberland County so there is better access to the contractors and students for this department?

JILL BALSER « » : Of course we know the demand on skilled trades. We also want to make sure that the entire province benefits from the increase in staff. We also do know there are challenges, because individuals are providing services to broad ranges, but we have made investments in the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency.

[Page 5743]

I'm working alongside colleagues over at the Department of Advanced Education and, of course, with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development as well. We want to make sure that more students go through completion and are successful. We are modernizing the Apprenticeship Agency. We have a pre-apprentice panel that is made up of industry, folks from the Nova Scotia Community College, as well as the department, to look at some of these challenges.

We know there is more work to do, and we are focused on making sure that we are going to do it, Mr. Speaker.

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

DCS: AFFORDABLE BIRTH CONTROL ACCESS - SUPPORT

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, by not increasing income assistance or other social supports, more women will not be able to access affordable birth control. Having the choice to access the birth control of your choosing is important, whether it be the pill or the IUD. Why did this budget not include support for expanding the coverage on birth control?

HON. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Anyone who is on income assistance is covered. Just for correction, we cover.

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : I did not say on income assistance, people who are not getting any assistance, not increasing income assistance. People are suffering with a budget, so I repeat the question, it wasn't people on income assistance. People are not receiving an increase off income assistance, and life has become much more expensive, if I may say so. The question wasn't about people on income assistance. It is to the Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Certainly, birth control is covered under the Nova Scotia Pharmacare Programs. IUDs, I know are sometimes a concern, but IUDs that have a hormonal component are actually covered. People who do need birth control who are receiving income assistance do have birth control covered. There are a number of options available to Nova Scotians. Also, there are people who have private insurance, of course.

[10:45 a.m.]

We have also expanded the scope of pharmacists to be able to prescribe birth control and talk about birth control options with individuals, as well as having emergency contraception available in our emergency rooms as well as in our pharmacies. There is a variety of options for birth control across the province. (Applause)

[Page 5744]

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

RAFAH DICONSTANZO: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

THE SPEAKER « » : This is a new question?

OAMH: SEXUAL HEALTH CENTRES - SUPPORT

RAFAH DICONSTANZO: Yes, it is. Women's health is important and is often underfunded, and while we are happy to see more support for emergency care for gynecology, there are more supports needed. We know that sexual health centres across the province are in high demand and do good work, but they are underfunded and understaffed. Mr. Speaker, why does this budget not include support for sexual health centres across the province?

HON. BRIAN COMER « » : We do fund a variety of these community-based organizations across the province, in the Tri-County area, Cape Breton, across all four health zones. I would certainly be happy to get those numbers for the member and follow up at a later date.

RAFAH DICONSTANZO: I'm sorry, I don't have another - thank you for the answer.

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

DCS: INCOME ASSISTANCE - INCREASE

HON. BEN JESSOME « » : At Law Amendments Committee this week, human rights lawyer Vince Calderhead said that by choosing not to increase income assistance by a single penny, the province is choosing to increase food insecurity, choosing to increase the inadequacy of families' ability to put food on the table. Mr. Speaker, if the government is serious about fixing health care, why do they ignore the experts?

HON. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Can you repeat it - just the last part, the question?

BEN JESSOME « » : Why ignore experts who are telling you that it's a human rights violation?

KARLA MACFARLANE « » : There is no doubt that Nova Scotians are struggling with inflation and what's happening globally. We continue to make investments where we can. There is nothing off the table. We talk all the time about innovative and creative ways that can help Nova Scotians, and that includes our most vulnerable. We have a substantial increase in our budget - $82 million under the Department of Community Services, and we have increased the Heating Assistance Rebate Program, and the Nova Scotia Child Benefit, the Seniors Care Grant. We have $10 a day child care. We could go on and on about the investments that we are making across the board.

[Page 5745]

BEN JESSOME « » : Yes, we all know about investments. There was $1.6 billion of them made since February that went unchecked. In QP earlier this week, in an exchange with the member for Kings South, the Minister of Agriculture casually referred to the ability to go back to the Cabinet table when things come up. Well, Mr. Speaker, something has come up. Income assistance recipients need this minister's help. Will she do what the Minister of Agriculture indicated that there is no problem to do: go back to the Cabinet table and ask for an increase in income assistance?

HON. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I continue to hear references about unchecked expenditures. I don't think I've been in the Legislature for one day in the last 13 years where I haven't heard - and I was part of the Opposition for a good portion of that time - and I can't think of one day when I haven't heard somebody asking the government to spend money on something new or something different.

Yes, we spent $1.6 billion, but we spent it on things that were important to Nova Scotians: people who were affected by Hurricane Fiona, people who are affected by the health care system. It's not just the people coming in to get cared for, but for people working in it. People who need housing . . .

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 Committee of the Whole on Supply.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is carried.

[10:51 a.m. The House resolved itself into CW on Supply with Deputy Speaker Kent Smith in the Chair.]

[3:24 p.m. CW on Supply rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Kent Smith in the Chair.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The Chair of the Committee of the Whole on Supply reports:

[Page 5746]

THE CLERK » : That the Committee of the Whole on Supply has met, has made considerable progress, and begs leave to sit again.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

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

THE SPEAKER « » : All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

We'll have a short recess while we set up for Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

[3:25 p.m. The House resolved into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Kent Smith in the Chair.]

[4:16 p.m. The Committee of the Whole House on Bills adjourned, and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Danielle Barkhouse in the Chair.]

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

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

Bill No. 262 - Interim Residential Rental Increase Cap Act (amended).

Bill No. 273 - Road Trails Act.

Bill No. 279 - Financial Measures (2023) Act.

without amendments, and the Chair has been instructed to recommend these bills to the favourable consideration of the House.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Madam Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

[Page 5747]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Madam Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 256.

Bill No. 256 - Patient Access to Care Act.

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

HON. BEN JESSOME « » : I'll be brief. The Liberal caucus will be supporting this bill with cautious optimism.

We did hear from a number of presenters at the Law Amendments Committee the other day who had some, I think, fair expressions of concern with respect to the potential ease with which health care professionals from other jurisdictions could be approved, stating perspectives around patient safety, which is ultimately paramount, and the lack of definition around good standing for the entry of professionals from outside our jurisdiction.

Another notable thing is that we had a number of health care providers very humbly state that though they were trained to do certain things, they were not best suited to do those things and couldn't actively do them. We do want to encourage that whatever next steps take place, it's done with the interest of ensuring capacity of the health care professionals who are coming into our province. We believe that the removal of the requirements around sick notes is valuable and certainly creates an opportunity for physicians to focus on other things and patients who truly need the attention.

Other than that, I wish the government good luck as they attempt to expedite these processes in a way that maintains patient safety and bolsters the health care system.

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : Madam Speaker, I am pleased to rise and speak briefly to this bill. Since I started on the doorsteps in Halifax Citadel-Sable Island, people have shared their deep, deep fears about the state of our health care system. In my riding, that includes patients, and parents, and children, and siblings, and health care professionals. I don't think there's a day that goes by when I go out canvassing even now when I don't talk to a nurse, a family doctor, a specialist, and often ER specialists. They are all deeply concerned about the state of the health care system and how they can do their work. They are engaged in this conversation day to day. They're also engaged in formal ways through regulatory bodies.

So I was deeply disappointed to learn that this legislation was developed without any consultation with the regulatory bodies, not even with the network that is conveniently available to speak on behalf of the regulatory bodies. It's not like the government had to go out and speak to a whole bunch of people; they actually could have spoken to one executive director who is charged with being able to represent the views of health care professionals in this province.

[Page 5748]

Perhaps that was an oversight, maybe they just weren't thinking, but then everybody came to Law Amendments Committee. I sat through part of Law Amendments Committee, and everyone came and said exactly the same thing: They, like us, support legislation that makes it easier for the health care system to work and to function. They spoke to their frustration with the current legislative process.

However, unanimously, they also pointed out their deep concerns with the legislation as proposed and they proposed amendments that would bring it into line with what they would have said had they been consulted in the first place. Even with that, even with the helping hand - and I would say gracious testimony - of folks at Law Amendments Committee, this government has chosen to disregard the professional advice of all the regulatory bodies of all the health professions in Nova Scotia. It's just hard to fathom this stubborn approach to legislation.

Of course, we were very happy to see the provisions around sick leave, and that remains very important to us. It's really not possible to support a piece of legislation that is flawed in process and currently flawed in content, so we won't be supporting this bill.

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

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Madam Speaker, I want to thank my colleagues for their very thoughtful comments. As we've said, our government is very committed to improving access to care for Nova Scotians and we've demonstrated this through many ways.

This legislation is enabling legislation to further our mandate to do that. We want safe and effective care in our province. This was in no way introduced to lower the bar, in any way, for the standards of care. We know that our colleges, our regulatory bodies, and our regulated health care professionals have their own requirements to ensure that they follow their colleges and their standards of practice and codes of ethics.

We value the expertise of the 21 regulators, and we look forward to consulting with them as we develop regulations, as outlined in the bill.

Madam Speaker, I move that we close debate on Bill No. 256, the Patient Access to Care Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : There has been a call for a recorded vote. We will have a short recess.

[Page 5749]

Ring the bells.

[4:23 p.m.]

[The Division bells were rung.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. The Clerk will conduct a recorded vote.

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[4:28 p.m.]

YEAS NAYS

 

Hon. Brad Johns Susan Leblanc

Hon. Tory Rushton Claudia Chender

Hon. Barbara Adams Kendra Coombes

Hon. Kim Masland Suzy Hansen

Hon. Allan MacMaster Gary Burrill

Hon. Karla MacFarlane Lisa Lachance

Hon. Michelle Thompson Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin

Hon. John Lohr

Hon. Pat Dunn

Hon. Timothy Halman

Hon. Steve Craig

Hon. Brian Wong

Hon. Susan Corkum-Greek

Hon. Brian Comer

Hon. Colton LeBlanc

Hon. Jill Balser

Trevor Boudreau

Hon. Greg Morrow

Hon. Becky Druhan

Larry Harrison

Chris Palmer

John A. MacDonald

Melissa Sheehy-Richard

John White

Tom Taggart

Nolan Young

Kent Smith

Hon. Patricia Arab

[Page 5750]

Hon. Derek Mombourquette

Hon. Kelly Regan

Rafah DiCostanzo

Hon. Tony Ince

Hon. Ben Jessome

Braedon Clark

Ali Duale

THE CLERK « » : For, 35. Against, 7.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Madam Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Private and Local Bills for Second Reading.

PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR SECOND READING

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

KIM MASLAND « » : Would you please call Bill No. 292.

Bill No. 292 - An Act to Incorporate Mount Saint Vincent University Student Union (amended).

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

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : I'm going to speak very briefly to Second Reading on Bill No. 292. I am pleased to rise in the House today to present these amendments to the Act to Incorporate Mount Saint Vincent University Student Union.

[4:30 p.m.]

It's a housekeeping bill. When the Act was incorporated in 1970, it definitely didn't reflect what the university is today. The amendments that were made here were to update it and to make those changes - make it more reflective of the student body.

I can't get up and talk about the Mount without talking about my mom. I don't tend to talk about my parents too much in this Chamber, usually because I don't want to cry. I lost both of them in 2012. They were actually the reason why I decided to run for public office. Their sense of community, their sense of giving, giving of your time, giving of your talents, giving of your treasure to those who are in need is something that was instilled in me and my brother and my sisters from the time we were born.

[Page 5751]

The second thing was education and the importance of learning. I'm actually a generational alumna of Mount Saint Vincent University. My mom graduated from there in the late 1950s with a Bachelor of Political Science, as well as an Education degree. She was actually the first Lebanese young lady in our community to graduate from university. (Applause)

She was a lifelong learner, my dad as well. My dad came here from Lebanon in the 1950s. He was illiterate in English but was fluent in Arabic. He came here and literacy was important to him, education was important to him, and they instilled that in us kids. Representing the Mount in the Legislature has always been a very special thing for me. It's my favourite place to go, it's my favourite place to be. You're not supposed to have favourites, but here we go. The secret's out. It's a special university with a really special student body, and their sense of community and giving back is evident as well.

Even though this bill might not be overly symbolic, it's more just to keep the legislation in step with the school itself. It is a pleasure for me to be able to rise and bring that in for them. With that I will take my seat.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Fairview-Clayton Park to close debate.

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : I move to close second reading of Bill No. 292.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 292.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that this bill be referred to the Committee on Private and Local Bills.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Madam Speaker, this concludes government business for the day. I move that the House do now rise to meet again on Tuesday, April 11^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

Business will include third reading of Bill Nos. 262, 273, and 279, and Estimates.

I hope everyone has a really nice Easter weekend.

[Page 5752]

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House do now rise to meet again on Tuesday, April 11^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

We stand adjourned.

[The House rose at 4:37 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

RESOLUTION NO. 624

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas as young children, 9-year-old Bennie Hubbard and 6-year-old Tony Muise were friends and neighbours; and

[Page 5753]

Whereas on a Summer day in 1972, while riding his bicycle on the Hubbard's Point Wharf, close to his home, Tony and his bicycle accidentally went over the Wharf and into the water; and

Whereas Tony could not swim, Bennie jumped into the water and pulled Tony back to the wharf where the pair held on to rocks until help arrived;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Bennie Hubbard for his quick and heroic actions and thank him for saving the life of his friend Tony Muise.

RESOLUTION NO. 625

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on November 9, 2022, Jake and Jessica Belliveau welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jake and Jessica Belliveau on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 626

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

[Page 5754]

Whereas on December 9, 2022, Kimberly Flynn and Ben Doucette welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kimberly Flynn and Ben Doucette on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 627

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on November 25, 2022, Andrew and Charelle Dulong welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Andrew and Charelle Dulong on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 628

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on January 29, 2023, Giselle and Randy d'Entremont welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Giselle and Randy d'Entremont on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

[Page 5755]

RESOLUTION NO. 629

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on January 9, 2023, Josee d'Entremont and Drawyne Goodwin welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Josee d'Entremont and Drawyne Goodwin on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 630

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on December 6, 2022, Leah Amiro and Dilan LeBlanc welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Leah Amiro and Dilan LeBlanc on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 631

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

[Page 5756]

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on January 30, 2023, Jennifer and Joshua Doucette welcomed their son into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jennifer and Joshua Doucette on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 632

By: Hon. Colton LeBlanc (Argyle)

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

Whereas the birth of a child is an exciting and momentous event and marks the beginning of a wonderful journey; and

Whereas few events in life are as powerful and positive as the birth of a child; and

Whereas on January 24, 2023, Michelle and Trevor Morton welcomed their daughter into the world;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Michelle and Trevor Morton on this miraculous event in their lives and wish them a lifetime of happiness as parents.

RESOLUTION NO. 633

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Cynthia Carroll was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Cynthia, Executive Director of Autism Nova Scotia, has led the Nova Scotia autism community to become the largest community-based autism organization in Atlantic Canada; and

[Page 5757]

Whereas Cynthia is recognized as a strong leader in advocacy, training, and programming for people living with autism;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Cynthia for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 634

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Jennifer Veres was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Jennifer has been a dedicated, long-serving community volunteer with the Village Green Recreation Society in East Dover and has worked to increase the recreational opportunities for residents of all ages; and

Whereas her work to oversee the renovation and management of the East Dover community hall provides opportunities to bring community together to celebrate and her leadership skills make her a successful and respected community champion and wonderful ambassador for Nova Scotia and Canada;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Jennifer for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 635

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Jenn Priske was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

[Page 5758]

Whereas Jenn led the Parent-Teacher Coalition at BLT Elementary School in Timberlea to secure a new fully inclusive playground that incorporated more diverse play elements than traditional playgrounds; and

Whereas this project further enhanced the efforts of the provincial government to establish more inclusive playgrounds so children with disabilities would be able to enjoy the same fun opportunities of the outdoors and improve their health and well-being;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Jenn for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 636

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Sergeant Jessica Beatty was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Sergeant Beatty is a medical assistant with the 33 Field Ambulance Army Reserve Unit and has been serving in the Canadian Armed Forces for the past nine years; and

Whereas during the pandemic Sergeant Beatty was tasked as a quick response medic (meaning 24 hours to move) for the pandemic response and held the position of Operations Assistant of the 33 Field Ambulance unit to provide instruction to new recruits;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Jessica for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 637

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas John Little was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

[Page 5759]

Whereas John Little, a Nova Scotian blacksmith and sculptor since 1970, has worked as a full-time blacksmith and has exhibited locally, nationally, and internationally, with works in private and public collections; and

Whereas for over 40 years John has been forging iron and steel into decorative and sculptural forms and his form, technique, and innovation has consistently led him in new and exciting directions, and his sound sculptures have even been used to create music;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing John for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and to know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 638

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Matthew Gordon was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Matthew Gordon's life changed forever when his father was killed in a highway traffic accident and Matthew wanted to honour his father's life through a clothing drive for the Salvation Army; and

Whereas Matthew has started a non-profit named the Ken Gordon Society to mark what would have been his father's 59^th birthday and partnered with Canadian National (CN) to help move his annual clothing drive across eastern Canada to help to support men who have lost control of their lives regain dignity, respect, and a better way of life;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Matthew for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and to know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 639

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

[Page 5760]

Whereas Maureen Yeadon was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Maureen served on the Executive Committee of the Community Monitoring Committee (CMC), which acts as the eyes and ears of community overseeing the operations of the Otter Lake Landfill; and

Whereas Maureen is a strong advocate for the local community and works tirelessly to ensure the protection of the environment and the beautification of Prospect Road, which is the main route to Peggy's Cove;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Maureen for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 640

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Mike Townsend was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Mike Townsend is the Executive Director of Directions Nova Scotia; and

Whereas he has always been a huge supporter of people with disabilities and very focused on the needs of his clients and is well known for his innovative approach and his ability to think outside the box;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Mike for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 641

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Reverend Margaret Rafuse was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

[Page 5761]

Whereas Margaret cares passionately about her community, Canada, and the world at large and is an activist who lobbies for peace in the world and sustainability of the planet; and

Whereas Margaret has been an active volunteer with the SS Atlantic Heritage Park and Museum in Terence Bay for many years, honouring the memory of those lost in the tragic sinking of the SS Atlantic, and is heading a committee to host the 150^th anniversary of the sinking of the SS Atlantic, a year of celebration and remembrance;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Margaret for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 642

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Scott Baker was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas as a first responder, Scott did not receive time off during COVID-19 and like many other first responders went to work to ensure Nova Scotians received help in times of emergency; and

Whereas Scott has a deep devotion to serving his community and takes pride in helping others in their time of need and supports his colleagues and fellow first responders with new skills in the form of music to help them cope with their stressful and demanding job;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Scott for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and to know you have received this honour as a lasting recognition of your dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 643

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

[Page 5762]

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

Whereas Stella Lord was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Stella has been a long-time advocate for women's issues and has served on several boards including the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women; and

Whereas in 2007 she joined other community activists in calling for a comprehensive poverty reduction strategy for Nova Scotia and in 2009 helped to form the Community Coalition to end poverty in Nova Scotia and advocate for policies and programs to reduce poverty;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Stella for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 644

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Dr. Tom Musial was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas for eleven years, Tom played a significant role in bringing together more than 40 community groups and governmental agencies to legislatively protect the Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness Area that includes 8,600 hectares of near urban land encompassing pristine forest, barrens, wetlands, lakes, and rivers; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly and Halifax Regional City Council publicly recognized Tom's outstanding volunteer service to protect Crown lands and acknowledged his leadership skills, visionary thinking, and his gifted ability to work collaboratively work with government departments and the community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Tom for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 645

[Page 5763]

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Allison Lawlor was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Allison is a freelance writer and an active and engaged community leader and serves as Chair of the Prospect Peninsula Residents Association (PPRA); and

Whereas through this grassroots organization Prospect Village manages and maintains its community wharf, the focus of this unique fishing community, and advocates for the surrounding natural beauty of the High Head Trails and coastal barrens;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Allison for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 646

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Beth McGee was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Beth is an avid outdoors person who is most at home amongst nature as her family managed woodlots in Nova Scotia where Beth honed her knowledge of flora and fauna and developed her passion for a healthy environment; and

Whereas Beth has given countless hours to community initiatives and organizations such as the Five Bridge Wilderness Heritage Trust, the Coalition of Community Organizations, the St Margaret's Bay Stewardship Association, and the Bay Treasure Chest;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Beth for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and to know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

[Page 5764]

RESOLUTION NO. 647

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Cassidy Megan was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas The Purple Day Gala, an annual event that is recognized internationally, was started by Cassidy in 2008 at age eight, motivated by her own struggles with epilepsy and she wanted to dispel the myths and reduce the stigma of those living with epilepsy; and

Whereas The Purple Day Gala, celebrated on March 26^th each year, is helping to educate people about this disorder and is making a significant difference to supporting those living with epilepsy and their families;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Cassidy for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 648

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Lori Edgar was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Lori Edgar joined Affirmative Ventures and hasn't spent a moment looking back; and

Whereas her motto Helping People Work Makes a Difference paved the way to blend housing and employment for our most marginalized community and her belief that a home, a job, and a friend can and does change a life and enables people and communities to flourish;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Lori for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

[Page 5765]

RESOLUTION NO. 649

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Lieutenant (Navy) Jason Bond was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Lieutenant (N) Bond is a Canadian Armed Forces Critical Care Nursing Officer who provided exemplary services during the COVID-19 pandemic and served the Canadian Field Hospital High Readiness Detachment and was on call for any potential deployment of the Field Hospital in the event critical care support was required by other provinces or internationally; and

Whereas he served as Clinical Placement Coordinator for military Health Services personnel to secure placements for nursing officers in civilian hospitals and worked at the Halifax Infirmary Emergency Department as well as the Dartmouth General ICU;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Lt. Bond for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 650

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Maria Medioli was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Maria is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA) with 25-plus years of strategic problem-solving experience in the public, not-for-profit and private sectors; and

Whereas Maria is committed to social change and is focused on creating the conditions for successful outcomes for persons living with disabilities and to ensure support is available for the most vulnerable;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Maria for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

[Page 5766]

RESOLUTION NO. 651

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Patsy Crawford was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Patsy was appointed to the Office of Deacon at the Beechville Baptist Church in 2004 and has held many positions in the African United Baptist Association and in the community including Past President of the Beechville Residents Association and Co-Chair of the Beechville Education Committee; and

Whereas she has been a strong advocate for Beechville residents on numerous community initiatives, has guided the spiritual well-being of African youth, and has been a role model for the community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Patsy for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 652

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Reverand Cheryl Rafuse was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Cheryl is a deacon with St. Timothy's Anglican Church in Hatchet Lake and St. Paul's Anglican Church in Terence Bay; and

Whereas in addition to her ministerial duties Cheryl is a warm, caring person and a long-time volunteer with the Prospect Foodshare program and has worked tirelessly to provide for those in the community who were experiencing food insecurities, especially during the global COVID-19 pandemic;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Cheryl for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

[Page 5767]

RESOLUTION NO. 653

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Scott Guthrie was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Scott served in the Canadian Armed Forces as an aviation systems technician overseeing the maintenance, testing, and inspection of aviation systems in aircraft for over 23 years; and

Whereas Scott's natural ability to connect with people and genuine concern for residents and the community has led to a long and outstanding commitment to civic engagement and for generously giving his time by supporting community-based organizations.

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Scott for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 654

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Sherry Costa Lorenz was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas as the provincial coordinator for the Nova Scotia League for Equal Opportunities, Sherry has been an outstanding advocate for people living with disabilities; and

Whereas she is a strong community leader and has successfully worked with government departments and the private sector to improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities in accessibility, transportation, housing, employment, recreation, education, and communication;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Sherry for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know she has received this honour as a lasting recognition of her dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 655

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Steve Estey was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Steve served as the Canadian Council of Disabilities (CCD) Interim National Coordinator, educator, and disability advocate and as North American Representative on the World Council of Disabled Peoples' International; and

Whereas he was an advisor to the Government of Canada Delegation to the UN and worked with agencies around the world to advance human rights and the economic situation of people with disabilities and served as a member of Canada's delegation to the negotiations on the UN Convention on the Rights of People Disabilities Treaty;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Steve for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 656

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Steve Murphy was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Steve Murphy has been a household name for a generation of Nova Scotians who grew up watching the evening news because of his talents as a journalist, his experience as special correspondent, flawless delivery of the evening news, skillful and articulate ability to conduct interviews with politicians, dignitaries, and celebrities that earned him the title as the Maritimes' most-trusted news anchor; and

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Whereas through his steady commitment to journalism, Steve provided round-the-clock coverage to major events, helped shape a generation of journalists, led CTV News at Six to be the region's most-watched newscast, and played a significant role in events that raised more than $132 million for local causes such as the Christmas Daddies and the IWK Telethon for Children;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Steve for his exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know he has received this honour as a lasting recognition of his dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 657

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Barb Allen was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee on November 29, 2022; and

Whereas Barb Allen has been a long-time community volunteer who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to actively engaging in volunteer work to enhance facilities, services, and the quality of life in the Prospect communities; and

Whereas Barb worked with government departments and the community to see the Prospect Road Community Centre, a hub for the Prospect communities, come to fruition;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing Barb for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service to our province and know you have received this honour as a lasting recognition of your dedication and service.

RESOLUTION NO. 658

By: Hon. Zach Churchill (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas Bruce Bishop, who was born and raised in Yarmouth, is now a published author; and

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Whereas his Families' Storytelling trilogy of novels, published between 2020 and 2022, consist of Unconventional Daughters, Uncommon Sons, and Undeniable Relations; and

Whereas he is currently in development with a Canadian TV production company to adapt Unconventional Daughters into a TV series;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bruce Bishop on the publication of his book trilogy and wish him much future success.

RESOLUTION NO. 659

By: Hon. Zach Churchill (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas Carleton Country Outfitters has been a cornerstone in Carleton, Yarmouth County for years; and

Whereas owners John and Jennifer Cunningham and their staff always go the extra mile to provide excellent customer service and to support those in our community; and

Whereas they do this by organizing food drives and supporting many charities and initiatives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank John and Jennifer Cunningham of Carleton Country Outfitters for many years of superior customer service and for generously supporting our communities.

RESOLUTION NO. 660

By: Hon. Zach Churchill (Yarmouth)

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

Whereas the Rotary Club of Yarmouth is celebrating its 100^th anniversary; and

Whereas the Rotary Club of Yarmouth is a service club dedicated to supporting our local community; and

Whereas the Rotary Club of Yarmouth's programs include: Meals on Wheels for seniors and vulnerable community members; school nutrition supports; supporting our fuel and food banks; education bursaries for all ages; and youth mental health and well-being initiatives, in addition to contributing to Rotary International projects, specifically End Polio Now and water security;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank the Rotary Club of Yarmouth for its enduring and meaningful support for our community and congratulate it on its 100^th anniversary.

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