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HALIFAX, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2024

Sixty-fourth General Assembly

First Session

9:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Danielle Barkhouse

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Lisa Lachance, Nolan Young

THE SPEAKER » : Order. We will now begin the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition with the operative clause reading:

We the undersigned request the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works pave the New Waterford Highway Trunk 28 from Daley Rd New Victoria to Ellsworth Ave in New Waterford in the Spring and Summer of 2025. This project has been continuously pushed for the past 4 years. The road continues to deteriorate making it unsafe.

There are 70 signatures on the petition, and I have affixed my own.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

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TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,111

HON. TIM HOUSTON (The Premier) « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the southwest region of our province is dealing with increasing instances of arson, threats, and violence on wharves that are largely connected to illegal harvesters from as far away as the United States, who are taking advantage of the lack of enforcement by the federal department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada; and

Whereas the federal Liberal government has been warned repeatedly for years about the risks and dangers of illegal activities in the fishery sector but has stubbornly refused to prioritize enforcement, the safety of our communities, or the sustainability of Nova Scotia's most valuable resource; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia government takes its responsibility for public safety seriously and has doubled our law enforcement resources, as well as stepping up inspection enforcement activities in the areas of the fishery that fall within our jurisdiction;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature strongly condemn the shameful inaction of Prime Minister Trudeau and his government, and urge the Prime Minister to immediately instruct Fisheries and Oceans Canada to safeguard communities in southwest Nova Scotia with effective enforcement measures to restore the rule of law and peace of mind in southwest Nova Scotia.

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 Premier.

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, in your gallery today, we have Senator Fabian Manning. Senator Manning has dedicated his life to public service, representing the people of Newfoundland and Labrador with unwavering commitment and integrity. His extensive career spans various levels of government, including roles as a municipal councillor, member of the House of Assembly, Member of Parliament, and now as a Senator.

Senator Manning is currently in his 14^th year as the Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans. In addition to this role, he is a tireless advocate for victims of intimate partner violence, working across party lines to tackle this critical issue. He has been happily married to his wife Sandra for 36 years. Together they are the proud parents of Fabian Junior, Mark, and Heather, and grandparents of Fabian III and Ricki Ann. He's also the uncle to one of my favourite people, Jacob.

I ask the members of the Legislature to please join me in recognizing Senator Manning for his dedication to public service and our great country and welcome him to our Legislature. Welcome, Senator. (Standing ovation)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here, and thank you for your service.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 467 - An Act to Amend Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2021, the Interim Residential Rental Increase Cap Act, and Chapter 401 of the Revised Statutes, 1989, the Residential Tenancies Act. (Hon. Colton LeBlanc)

Bill No. 468 - An Act to Re-introduce School Boards. (Suzy Hansen)

Bill No. 469 - An Act to Amend Chapter 81 of the Acts of 1876, an Act to Incorporate the Trustees of the Hunter Church Building Fund. (Hon. Kim Masland)

Bill No. 470 - An Act to Provide Relief from Expenses Due to Road Construction. (Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

LOBB, DAVID JOHN: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to a solemn ceremony that is taking place at our country's national memorial for fallen firefighters in Ottawa today and to a Nova Scotia man who will be honoured there.

David John Lobb did not grow up in Nova Scotia, but moving to Lunenburg in the latter years of his life, he immersed himself so fully in community life, volunteering with organizations from the food bank to the Folk Harbour Festival, that he rightfully earned the title "Bluenoser." In fact, David John was a youthful 65 years old when he joined the Lunenburg and District Fire Department, rarely missing a call or practice, right up until his last call that sadly brought his colleagues to his own door.

I would ask my fellow members to please rise for a moment of silence in honour of David John Lobb and all our fallen firefighters being recognized today.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please rise.

[A moment of silence was observed.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Thank you. Please be seated.

The honourable member for Yarmouth.

BURNS, MALYSSA: NEW BUSINESS - RECOG.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Speaker, today I rise to celebrate the remarkable resilience and determination exemplified in Malyssa Burns, the fiancée of deceased battle rap artist Pat Stay. With the overwhelming support from her community, Malyssa Burns recently opened her own business in Dartmouth - a dream that she shared with Pat before his tragic murder.

Despite facing unimaginable loss, Malyssa's strength - along with the love from family, friends, and neighbours - has turned this dream into a reality. Her courage is a testament to her character as a persevering mother and to the love and support of the community, and once again shows how Nova Scotians can lift each other up during times of extreme hardship.

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I invite all members to join me in celebrating Malyssa's achievement and congratulating her on her new business. We wish her and her son all the very best moving forward.

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

COLE, S./BISHOP, D.: RENT SUPP. EFFORTS - THANKS

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Speaker, recently this government reversed its ill-advised decision to increase the threshold to qualify for the rent supplement, bringing the percentage of the income that you need to spend on your rent down from 50 per cent to 40 per cent - not quite the original 30 per cent, but it is a first step. I'm proud to recognize two Dartmouth North residents who spoke out and no doubt contributed to this change, Sylvia Cole and Dawn Bishop.

Sylvia is a senior who spends more than 60 per cent of her fixed income on housing. Because of this, she was confident that she would be approved for the rent supplement. Sadly - due to flaws in the program - she was not. As Sylvia has said, "What's the point of having a rental subsidy when you make it impossible to get?"

Dawn is a single mother who works full-time and was also denied - despite spending more than half of her take-home income on rent. Unfortunately, the supplement is calculated on a pre-tax income, which Dawn rightly calls an imaginary number that you do not see in your pocket. I want to thank Sylvia Cole and Dawn Bishop for speaking up. Their voices have and will continue to make a difference.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Richmond.

DOYLE, CLAIRE: COM. SERV. - THANKS

HON. TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the tireless volunteers in Richmond County, Claire Doyle. Claire chairs the Stella Maris Social Justice Committee and volunteers with the Isle Madame Food Bank, the Strait Richmond Housing Matters Coalition, the Rocky Bay Irish Club, the Seniors Take Action Coalition, and is President of the Isle Madame Garden Club.

Claire was also a founding member of the Isle Madame Brownies and Guides, the Religious Education Coordinator for Stella Maris Pastoral Unit, President of the Isle Madame Tourism and Business Association and an executive member of the local Canadian Cancer Society.

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Claire really is a tremendous volunteer in our community and she is proud to come from a large Acadian family. I ask members of this Legislature to please join me in thanking Claire for all her hard work in our community. Her efforts make life so much better for all of us.

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

BEECHVILLE: COM. SPIRIT AWD. RECIP. - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : I rise today to congratulate the community of Beechville as the proud recipient of the 2024 Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award.

Nova Scotia is the genesis of Black communities in Canada for over 400 years. Beechville is one of the 50-plus communities that has a special unique story, a story that needs to be more widely known. The award is a reflection of the perseverance of the ancestors of this community and the community groups working hard to preserve and protect the identity of Beechville, formerly Beech Hill, dating all the way back to 1816 when the first Black refugees arrived in Beechville.

The legacies and contributions from families go back generations continue to this day - people like Dr. Oliver and all those people who worked alongside him, like Reg Hamilton and others, to build the Munroe subdivision.

Please join me in congratulating Yasemin Erdogan, Keihgan Blackmore, George Blackmore, Tammara Ashe, Paul Blackmore, Paula Blackmore and Danika Ash, all the members of the Beechville Walkettes administrative team, for preparing and submitting the application and for receiving the prestigious Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award, a testament to the collective character, quality and excellence of the people of Beechville.

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

DAVIS, JOHN BRADFORD: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

GARY BURRILL « » : A memorial gathering was held August 14^th at the Shelburne Community Centre to remember John Davis, whose passing earlier this year I wish to mark before the House. John Bradford Davis of Atlantic, Shelburne County was an indefatigable environmentalist and defender of the ocean, the fishery, and the coastal communities of Nova Scotia.

Beginning with the NO RIGS campaign of the 1980s, John was one of the province's first and strongest voices calling for a moratorium on offshore drilling on Georges Bank. He was essentially associated with the campaign to protect offshore Nova Scotia of the South Shore Chapter of the Council of Canadians. As founder of the Clean Ocean Action Committee and its director, he was instrumental in advocating for a no-drilling buffer zone around the fishing grounds of Browns and Georges.

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In 2017 he was the NDP candidate for the provincial constituency of Queens Shelburne. John was 76. He is held in memory with gratitude, respect and warmth.

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

NEON DREAMS: ECMA AWD. RECIP. - CONGRATS.

HON. STEVE CRAIG « » : I rise today to congratulate Frank Kadillac and Adrian Morris of Lower Sackville for winning an East Coast Music Award.

Neon Dreams is a Canadian alt-pop duo consisting of vocalist Frank Kadillac and drummer Adrian Morris. They write and produce their own music along with longtime collaborator Corey LeRue.

In May 2024 Neon Dreams was nominated for an East Coast Music Award and took home Album of the Year for their production of Love Child Baby Dolphin. Being able to watch Frank and Adrian develop into such incredible musicians has been an honour for me as they grew in our community and expanded out. They have made our community very proud of them.

Speaker, I would ask that all members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Frank and Adrian on their ECMA win and wish them continued success in their future musical endeavors.

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

CARE & FUN CHILD CARE: 12^TH ANNIV. - RECOG.

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Speaker, I am thrilled to celebrate Care & Fun Child Care, which marked 12 years of service to our community on July 29^th. This year also saw their expansion into a new location on June 3, 2024, enhancing their capacity to serve the diverse families of Fairview-Clayton Park.

Under the leadership of Hoda Ibrahim, Care & Fun Child Care has been recognized for its diversity, reflecting the multicultural fabric of our community. It's fitting that in Fairview-Clayton Park, named the most diverse community east of Montreal, we now boast the most diverse daycare as well.

This addition enhances our community's rich tapestry of cultures and supports a nurturing, inclusive environment for our children.

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Additionally, Hoda Ibrahim was honoured last year with the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal for her outstanding community service, further underscoring the impactful work that's being done at Care & Fun Child Care.

Please join me in applauding Hoda Ibrahim and her dedicated team at Care & Fun on their 12^th anniversary and their commitment to diversity and excellence in child care. Here's to many more years of growth, diversity, and success.

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

AFRICVILLE REUNION: IMPORTANCE - RECOG.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Speaker, I stand today to recognize Africville and its people. As a descendant of Africville, each year my family and I look forward to the reunion to see folks who we haven't seen in a while and have some fun with family and friends on the grounds. The reunion was established so that past residents and their families could come together and spend some time on the grounds with each other to share stories and laughs and just have fun together, never forgetting where they came from.

The history of Africville is devastating, yet beautiful. I'm so grateful and blessed to have been taught the first-hand knowledge by my West family and elders from Africville, to have learned the resiliency and faith of my people, to never give up, and to fight for what's right, because I know the spirit does live on in my children and me, and it will continue for generations to come.

I would like all members of this House to think about the Sankofa bird. It is an important symbol of African culture, representing a deep appreciation and respect for one's history and ancestors. Looking back into the past and learning from it are essential steps to taking control of one's destiny as well as finding success in the present.

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

SHERLOCK, COURTNEY: SOCCER LEAGUE CEO - CONGRATS.

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my constituent Courtney Sherlock for having a vision for a women's soccer team on the East Coast. Courtney's astute connection to community and sharp entrepreneurial skills led her to become the CEO of a professional women's soccer league, the Halifax Tides Football Club.

The company consists of Courtney Sherlock, CEO and founder; Val Malone, president; Amit Batra, sporting director; Lewis Page, head coach; Kennedi Herrman, coaching staff; Danae Iatrou-Davis, director of marketing; Harish Phadke, chief business officer; and Ally Pedvis, business development manager, all of whom bring a high level of professionalism and a skill set that will lead the team to many successes.

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I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in congratulating Courtney Sherlock and her team on this tremendous endeavour. I expect all Nova Scotians to come out and support this new team.

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

E. COAST UKR. ASSOC.: FUNDRAISING - RECOG.

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Speaker, today I rise to recognize the East Coast Ukrainian Association for their outstanding contribution to our community, particularly through their efforts in organizing the East Coast Ukrainian Festival and Unbroken Ukraine.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has left many in need, and understanding the gravity of this situation, the East Coast Ukrainian Association, along with wonderful local artists and volunteers, came together to raise funds for those suffering from injuries due to the ongoing war.

This year's festival featured Barvinok, whose traditional Ukrainian dances captivated attendees with their amazing costumes and talent, showcasing the rich cultural heritage that the association so proudly preserves and promotes.

I would like to ask that the House join me in recognizing and celebrating the important work that they are doing and the difference it is making in the lives of those affected by the war in Ukraine.

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction relative to my member's statement.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Joining us in the West Gallery is Marius van Leeuwen, who has been my constituency assistant since 2021. Welcome. (Applause)

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

VAN LEEUWEN, MARIUS: CONSTITUENCY WORK - RECOG.,

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LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, as we all know, the true work of an MLA in community is a team effort with our constituency assistants. Today marks a transition in the Halifax Citadel-Sable Island constituency office as Marius van Leeuwen moves on to the next challenge.

I was lucky to hire Marius in 2021 and together we learned how to manage a constituency office, spending our first month sharing a singular desk. We have been through a lot since then: constituent advocacy, meetings, email, queer forums, community events, and more, and I was often left in awe and extreme gratitude at Marius's skill and ability to execute things so flawlessly. Whenever and wherever people spoke to me about Marius, it was to sing their praises.

I'd be remiss if I didn't also mention my equal measure of gratitude for the endless laughter and moments of absolute joy. From drag queen story time to karaoke to the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal ceremonies, there was nothing that Marius couldn't tackle and with vibes on point too.

I could not have asked for a stronger support person as I entered the political world. Marius, I know that wherever your journey takes you, you'll keep being the sparkly and utterly amazing you that any workplace - but more honestly, the whole world - is so lucky to have.

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

NOEL UNITED CHURCH: 150^TH ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

LARRY HARRISON « » : I want to express my congratulations to the Noel United Church of Canada, which is celebrating 150 years of ministry. It was in Noel that I first started my journey as an ordained minister in 1972, and it was a learning curve in many ways. A city boy being thrown into rural - yes, I learned a lot, but it was a blessing in many ways.

I was the minister when they celebrated their 100^th anniversary, and I was honoured to be invited back to speak on August 4^th at their 150^th. Many people have passed, but a few faces were still familiar.

I want to express my admiration for the effort to keep this church open, and for the ministry to continue. I want to thank them for helping me grow as a person and also as a clergyperson.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clare.

LITTLE BROOK DISTILLING CO.: OPENING - CONGRATS.

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RONNIE LEBLANC « » : I rise today to welcome the Little Brook Distilling Co. to our area, a distillery offering unique artisanal spirits. Dan Surette, one of the proprietors of Vins Maison Meuse & Fils, described this new venture as his passion project. Together with his wife, Ashley Beaton, the couple is particularly interested in sourcing as much of their raw materials as they can from our area, always with a focus on sustainability and excellence.

With these priorities in mind, they have so far launched a line of unique spirits, including a Wild Dandelion Gin. The couple has also opened a small bistro serving traditional Acadian dishes and dishes from other cultures.

I ask that all members join me in congratulating Dan Surette and Ashley Beaton on opening Little Brook Distilling Co. and wish them well in their future endeavours. Merci.

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

GIRLS NEW WAT. DODGERS: CH'SHIP WIN - CONGRATS.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : I rise to congratulate the New Waterford Dodgers. New Waterford hosted the 17U Girls Tier 2 Provincial Championships from August 30^th to September 1^st. The teams that competed in the Provincials were the New Waterford Dodgers, North Nova, Hammonds Plains Green, Hammonds Plains Yellow, and Hants North.

The camaraderie between the girls was special to watch. Before the opening ceremonies, the girls from all the teams took to the middle of the baseball diamond and danced their hearts away, cheering each other on to multiple songs and getting the crowd all wild and crazy. It was fantastic, and no one was having as much fun as those girls, let me tell you. They made memories that will last a lifetime.

I ask the House to join me in congratulating the New Waterford Dodgers on becoming the Provincial Champions after a 15-4 win against North Nova in Antigonish.

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

CAMPBELL, CAREY: CASTAWAY CAFÉ SUCCESS - CONGRATS.

HON. GREG MORROW « » : I rise today to congratulate Carey Campbell of Manchester on the success of his new business, Cast Away Café on the Guysborough waterfront.

Carey and his family moved to Guysborough County from British Columbia two years ago and he wanted to get involved in the community. He saw a need for a café where people can gather for coffee, events, or just have a quick lunch. Carey was able to partner with the Guysborough Waterfront Association and rent a space in the historic Jost Building.

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Since opening in May, Cast Away Café has been busy serving up lattes, teas, coffees, and their signature grilled cheese sandwiches. They even host open mic nights, including one of the Road to Stanfest concerts. A few weeks ago, Carey opened an additional business next door. The Harbour Grill offers quick service burgers, hot dogs, and daily specials.

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Speaker, when someone opens a business and wants to work with the community and its residents, it can flourish. That is the case for Carey and his growing Cast Away Café. Congratulations Carey, and we wish you every success as you continue to grow your business.

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

WHITE, AMBROSE: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

FRED TILLEY « » : Today I rise to give tribute to the life of Ambrose White. Ambrose was a husband, a father, a godfather, a grandfather, a brother, an uncle, and most of all a friend to many people and an exceptional educator.

I got to know Ambrose during my time on the Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board, where he served many roles, including coordinator of student services, director of operations, and finishing off with superintendent when he retired. Ambrose retired in 2013 after 40 years of distinguished service. I had so much respect and admiration for Ambrose. He had an uncanny way to calm a situation and also to diffuse a situation. He'll be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him, and I would like to send condolences to his family and friends and wish them all the best.

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

QUINN, SEN. J./SKINNER, L.: ISTHMUS EFFORTS - RECOG.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I am honoured to recognize Senator Quinn and lawyer Lyle Skinner for their exceptional work on the Chignecto Isthmus project. In May, I had the opportunity to meet with them both in Ottawa, where we discussed the critical importance of this infrastructure for Nova Scotia. Their dedication to protecting and improving the Chignecto Isthmus was evident and deeply appreciated.

Additionally, I had the pleasure of meeting with the senator again this Summer in Amherst. During their visit, he further demonstrated their commitment to the project by engaging directly with local stakeholders and addressing community concerns. Their ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and stability of this vital corridor and gateway are commendable and reflect unwavering support for our region.

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After the meeting in Amherst, I had the pleasure of taking them on a personal tour of the dikes in my Jeep. We had a lot of fun, but more seriously it showed them the areas of weakness - the greatest areas of weakness. Thank you again to Senator Quinn and lawyer Lyle Skinner.

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : I beg leave to make an introduction relative to my member statement.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

LISA LACHANCE « » : In the West Gallery today, I am pleased to welcome Truelee Love to the House. (Applause)

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

LOVE, TRUELEE: NEW CONST. ASST. - WELCOME

LISA LACHANCE « » : Today I am pleased to welcome Truelee Love as a constituency assistant for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island. She is a Dalhousie graduate with a double major in political science and gender and women's studies. Truelee moved from Grande Prairie, Alberta, to Halifax in 2018.

As a teenager in Alberta, she advocated for 2SLGBTQIA+ spaces and acceptance and served on the Grande Prairie Pride Society. She has worked in queer spaces throughout her time in Halifax. In 2019 she worked to revive DalOUT - Dalhousie's 2SLGBTQIA+ society - and was acting president for three years. Truelee was also a member of the youth project, the Youth Board, and was a co-chair for two years. In July 2024, she was a parade coordinator for Halifax Pride.

Truelee has always been very concerned with student politics, holding the office of Vice-President Internal, as well as working at the Nova Scotia Public Interest Research Group. She is looking forward to furthering her education and continuing her work with community. I know her warmth and professionalism will serve the constituents of Halifax Citadel-Sable Island well, and I ask all members to welcome her.

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

AGE OF SAIL MUSEUM: 30^TH ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

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HON. TORY RUSHTON « » : I rise today to congratulate the Age of Sail Museum in Port Greville on its 30^th Anniversary. The museum is operated by the Greville Bay Shipbuilding Museum Society, which is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the lumbering and shipbuilding history of the Parrsboro Shore.

Incorporated in 1992, the society is made up of a board of local volunteers who are selflessly dedicated to the good of the community and the mandate of the society. The museum honours the shore, centring around lumbering and shipbuilding, following the process from stump to ship and the power of wind and wave.

Please join me in congratulating the Age of Sail on its 30^th anniversary and thanking all the dedicated volunteers who maintain and bring to life this important part of history in Cumberland and Nova Scotia. The celebration starts at the museum on September 21^st at 1:00 p.m. Hope to see you there.

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

HARTLEN, STEVE: COM. SERV. - THANKS

LORELEI NICOLL « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Hartlen, a genuine community hero. Steve has battled many health issues over the years and is still fighting his battle with cancer. As a 25-year veteran with the Canadian military and now a commissionaire at CFB Shearwater, Steve travels along the stretch of highway known as the Highway of Heroes, and on his drives took note of the trash that litters the side of the roads.

The former infantryman's idea involved boots on the ground. Starting in May of this year, on his days off you can find Steve with his orange vest and work gloves on the stretch of road between Portland and Pleasant Streets bagging up trash. I can attest to that, as I observed him from our office window overlooking Highway No. 101. His goal was to have that stretch of road spic and span by August 17^th for the annual Highway of Heroes motorcycle ride from Shearwater to Truro, but he's still determined to continue his work as his health allows.

Speaker, we thank and recognize Steve Hartlen for being the hero like those he is determined to honour. (Applause)

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

SCHOOL TRUSTEES: IMPORTANT WORK - THANKS

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SUZY HANSEN « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize school board members and trustees, past and present, who have served and continue to serve their communities. Elected members are everyday folks who have a passion for learning and are deeply involved in their school communities. They care about all students in the education system and are advocates for their regions.

School boards follow governance rules and request information from the department to help close the gaps in the respective schools. They have discussions that are public, and their decisions are made collectively. They have requests from the minister or from the department on things like prioritizing schools, literacy and math supports, staffing levels and needs per region.

I would like all members to join me in thanking school board members and trustees for dedicating their time and energy to make sure that our students in the education system thrive and are successful.

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

POLAR BEAR EXPRESS: 25^TH ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

HON. KENT SMITH « » : Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the Polar Bear Express Ice Cream shop for their 25^th Summer in business. Throughout the years, the ice cream shop has employed dozens of local students, resulting in thousands of delicious scoops for patrons.

Earlier this Summer, owner Rosalyn Staple celebrated the 25^th anniversary with a fun family event that included children's games, a mini petting zoo, prizes, giveaways, and live music. Proceeds from the sales of the day were generously donated to the Nova Scotia chapter of Make-A-Wish Canada, benefiting their Ice Cream for Wishes campaign.

I ask all members of the Legislative Assembly to join me in congratulating Rosalyn and all their staff, past and present, for their delicious contributions to our community.

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

SCHOOL STAFF: EFFORTS - RECOG.

ALI DUALE « » : Yesterday marked a special day as students, parents, teachers, and school staff began a new year of school. It's a time filled with excitement, hope, and anticipation. Speaker, let's support one another, create a safe environment, and recognize the efforts of those who make our schools a place of learning and opportunity for all.

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

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RES. MINES RESIDENTS: CROSSWALK LIGHT - RECOG.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, for several years, the residents of Reserve Mines and my office have been advocating for a crosswalk light to help residents cross the street safely to the post office. For this reason, we were excited to announce that on May 2^nd, that long-awaited crosswalk light became operational.

I want to take this moment to thank the residents of Reserve Mines and the postal workers for their continued advocacy and determination to create a safer crossing for pedestrians.

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

THOMAS, ALYSSA: STUDIO 26 DANCE COMPANY - RECOG.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize an incredible individual in our community, Alyssa Thomas, the owner, director, and coach of Studio 26 Dance Company. At Studio 26, they have created a vibrant environment that encourages creativity and discipline, helping countless young children develop their skills, build self-confidence, and express their creativity. As one of the most diverse dance schools in Atlantic Canada, Alyssa has made it her priority to embrace, incorporate, and celebrate all cultures. Along with being a director and coach at Studio 26, Alyssa has also spent time mentoring youth in various churches directing praise dance ministries.

I ask all members to join me in acknowledging and applauding Alyssa Thomas for her outstanding work and invaluable impact on youth.

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

DRADER-MURPHY, LISA: DESIGNER ICON AWD. - RECOG.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : It's a delight to recognize the latest achievement of Lisa Drader-Murphy. In 1998, she brought her talents and enthusiasm to Nova Scotia. Now many of us have the pleasure of wearing her comfortable, stylish, and Canadian-made clothing. Her store in Sunnyside Mall in Bedford is very close to my constituency office, and I will admit it is a frequent source of temptation. Lisa has been recognized as one of Atlantic Canada's 25 most powerful women in business, and she is all that. Now she is officially an icon. This Summer, Lisa was honoured with the Designer Icon Award at Halifax Fashion Week 2024. Lisa continues to create and inspire in the East Coast fashion world and beyond, and I am delighted to recognize her today.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Queens.

MITTON, SARAH: ATHLETIC ACCOMPLISHMENTS - RECOG.

[Page 8887]

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Queens County Olympian Sarah Mitton.

Canada's first-ever world medalist in women's shotput, Sarah has continued to impress with her relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to her sport, and in Paris this past Summer she participated with Team Canada at her second Olympic Games.

Qualifying for the finals with her first qualifying throw, we watched with such pride as she beat her Olympic debut finish in Tokyo. While her medal dreams did not happen this time, she showed the world how to handle the ups and downs of sports with grace and good sportsmanship.

In typical Sarah style, she has already earned gold and silver at competitions post-Olympics.

Speaker, please join me in applauding this incredible Nova Scotian athlete, whose impressive accomplishments in her sport are not over yet. We are so proud of you, Sarah, and look forward to L. A. in 2028.

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

KELLY, BRIAN: RETIREMENT - BEST WISHES

HON. KEITH IRVING « » : Speaker, congratulations on your election.

I rise today to honour and recognize Brian Kelly as he steps into early retirement after 30 years of service as the owner and operator of Muddy's Convenience in Wolfville. Local convenience stores are a vital part of life in a small community where people drop in for a litre of milk, a newspaper, or just a popsicle on a warm day. Brian is known for his warm smile and unwavering commitment to his customers every day, come rain or shine. Over the years, he has watched generations grow, fostering a unique bond with his loyal patrons. Muddy's has become more than just a store. It's a beloved institution. Muddy's Convenience under Brian will forever hold a special place in our community.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in thanking Brian Kelly for his incredible service to his many customers over three decades and wish him all the best in retirement.

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

DOOLEY, JOANNE: RETIREMENT - BEST WISHES

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SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Speaker, as students and staff head back to school this week, one Dartmouth North resident is staying home because she retired. Joanne Dooley has worked as an EPA and support staff person at schools in Dartmouth North for 27 years. During that time, Miss Joanne, as she is known, generously and tirelessly supported students with special needs at John Martin Junior High. Last school year, I had an opportunity to take a tour of the school with Joanne and two of her students, and I got to witness first-hand her incredible love and dedication to them.

[9:45 a.m.]

Joanne is also an active member of the Dartmouth North community in general. On any given Sunday, one will find her as a licensed lay minister and warden at Holy Trinity Emmanuel Anglican Church. If the church is hosting any kind of event in the hall, she will be in the kitchen working the canteen, where the best hotdogs ever - with fried onions - can be found.

Joanne is a wonderful person, dedicated to her students, her friends, her church, and her community. I ask the whole House of Assembly to join me in thanking her for 27 years of service to the kids of our community and wishing her a happy and restful retirement.

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

SANFORD, WYATT: OLYMPICS MEDAL - CONGRATS.

JOHN A. MACDONALD: Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Wyatt Sanford, who has recently won the bronze medal in boxing at the 2024 Summer Olympics, in Paris.

Wyatt, your dedication, hard work, and fighting spirit have brought immense pride to Nova Scotia and all of Canada. This medal is a testament to your perseverance and the embodiment of the Olympic spirit. You have inspired us all with your courage and determination. Just last week, we had a parade to welcome him in, and it was very well attended.

On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I offer you our heartfelt congratulations. We are so proud of you, and we look forward to your future successes. Thank you for representing us with such honour and making us all proud. Congratulations, Wyatt.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Annapolis.

STUDENTS: SCHOOL RETURN - RECOG.

[Page 8889]

CARMAN KERR « » : I want to show my support for all the kids who had their first day of school yesterday, to the ones who enjoyed it and the ones who didn't. As the dad of two young boys, I have a bit of both.

To my six-year-old, Odin, who had a tough day again this morning: Dad will be home soon and things will look up. Just surround yourself with your good friends. To my ten-year-old, Eris, who said yesterday was awesome: I know it's because you scored two goals at lunch time soccer and not for what you learned in the classroom, but I'll take it. To all the kids, I wish you a very successful year.

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

CUMB. ENTREPRENEURS: COMMITMENT - RECOG.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Today I rise to recognize and bring honour to the entrepreneurs who operate businesses in Cumberland North along Route 366 between Tidnish and Pugwash. Since early April, these dedicated entrepreneurs and their staffs have continued to operate their businesses despite the severe traffic disruption caused by the closure of the Oxley Creek culvert. A now five-month road closure has meant lengthy detours for locals and overall avoidance by tourists.

While some of the businesses, like Nicnat Farms, rely primarily on local customers who have still managed to find their way to the U-Pick and purchase beef, others, like the Amherst Shore Country Store and Amherst Shore Country Inn, and Seven Gables Bed & Breakfast, Winegarden Estate, depend very heavily on tourists. Unfortunately, there have been far, far fewer this season.

I would ask my colleagues to join me in encouraging all the business owners along Route 366 to remain committed to their enterprises with an optimistic eye to when the culvert replacement is finally completed.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Antigonish.

EASTERN 2.0 BOMBERS: CH'SHIP WIN - CONGRATS.

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I rise today to congratulate the Eastern 2.0 Bombers on capturing the U13 Male Eastern Canadian Softball Championships, which were held in Antigonish from August 22^nd to the 25^th.

The Bombers played the Placentia Lions in the gold medal game, with the Bombers winning 17 to 14. It was an exciting game for the home team. Neil Landry was recognized as top pitcher for the tournament and Manton Austen was tournament MVP.

Antigonish was well-represented at the tournament by two exceptional teams, the Bombers and the St. Joseph's Chiefs. All of the spectators were treated to exciting, well-played games by these teams. It was certainly a great weekend to spend at the sandlot.

[Page 8890]

Thank you to all the organizers, volunteers, coaches, players, families, and friends. Hosting this tournament took a lot of work from all of you, and it showed. I can attest that all of us in attendance were treated to a well-run tournament and exceptional softball. I ask all members of this House to congratulate the Eastern 2.0 Bombers on winning the Eastern Canadian Softball Championship.

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

FAIRVIEW UNITED CHURCH: DECOMMISSIONING - RECOG.

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : It's with a blend of sadness and hope that my community marked the decommissioning of Fairview United Church after 85 years of service to the Fairview-Clayton Park community back in May. This church has not only been a place of worship but a vibrant centre for community life, hosting the Fairview Resource Centre, the 2^nd Fairview Scouts troop, numerous community groups, and memorable annual pancake suppers.

Though this was an emotional conclusion, it also led to a promising new chapter. On October 1^st, Fairview United will merge with Rockingham United to form Hillside United Church. This exciting new merger will be commemorated with its first service, featuring guest preacher Reverend Michael Blair, the General Secretary of the United Church of Canada.

Let us acknowledge the significant contributions of Fairview United to our community and celebrate the new beginnings that await with Hillside United. Congratulations to all those involved in making this transition a beacon of unity and hope.

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

CHRIS PALMER » : I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

CHRIS PALMER « » : It's a little different introduction but I am very pleased to introduce to the House and now to all Nova Scotia that our third grandson, Josiah Darian Wade was born yesterday morning. He was born yesterday but I didn't know a name to introduce him yesterday, something about having to tell the family first before I told all you guys.

I am very pleased and honoured and we're a very proud family and I just wanted to introduce - she's watching now so I just wanted to introduce everyone to my new grandson.

[Page 8891]

THE SPEAKER « » : On behalf of the House we wish you congratulations on your new grandson. Chris, I know you put a lot of work into that birth.

The honourable member for Glace Bay-Dominion.

COTE, CASSIE: 100^TH BIRTHDAY - BEST WISHES

JOHN WHITE « » : Speaker, in August I had the pleasure of presenting a Celebrations Certificate to Ms. Cassie Cote, who at 100 years young stands as a beacon of resilience and love, nurturing three generations of an incredible family. Born in 1924, she witnessed a century of change, from the Great Depression to the Digital Age, yet through it all her greatest achievement has been her family. She raised four children, nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Church has been a constant backdrop in Cassie's life and her presence in the pews means that she was known by everybody in the parish, and not just as a regular attendee, Cassie was a wonderful volunteer. Her dedication to her faith and to others is evident in all she has done over the years.

As we celebrate Cassie's centennial, we are not just honouring a milestone, but a legacy of love and strength that continues to inspire generations to come.

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

BURCHELL, WILLIAM: DEATH OF – TRIBUTE

FRED TILLEY « » : I also rise today to give tribute to the life of William "Billy" Burchell. Sydney Mines and the Nova Scotia legal community lost an icon this summer. Billy was well-known in our community for all of his volunteerism and hard work. Billy practiced all types of law, but his specialty was in the area of criminal law. Billy was a formidable opponent to many prosecutors in Nova Scotia in the courtroom.

I had the opportunity to attend Billy's service this summer at the John J. Nugent Firemen's Centre and I heard first-hand the stories of Billy's ability to move our community forward. One such example that I'd like to share is that he never took the status quo as given. When they were building the fire hall, Billy said, "It's not big enough. We need to bump the building."

They went back for more funding and got the funding through, and the building is now affectionately called Burchell's Bump.

My condolences go out to his wife Marguerite, daughter Miriam and the rest of his family.

[Page 8892]

THE SPEAKER « » : My apologies, but there is allowed only two statements per day. (Interruption) Well, absolutely.

The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction. In the West Gallery, we have visiting with us Ciarán Llachlan Leavitt. They are the President of CUPE Local 955, from the Strait-Richmond area. We want to welcome you to the House today and joining us.

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

AUSTIN, DEEDEE: MUSIC CAREER SUCCESS - CONGRATS.

HON. BRIAN WONG « » : Today I want to recognize a talented singer-songwriter and Lockview High School alumna from Fall River. DeeDee Austin has had a tremendous year so far, including being featured in the 2024 Road to the Junos Series. DeeDee was also selected as the outstanding Indigenous Artist for "Tell Me (Why Am I So Different)," which was presented by the Indigenous Music Office. As well, she won the Dance Recording of the Year and Fan's Choice Video of the Year at the 2024 East Coast Music Awards held right here in Halifax.

I ask all members of the Legislature for please join me in congratulating DeeDee for all her success and to wish her the very best in her outstanding musical career.

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

VICTORIA CO. COUNCILLORS: SERVICE - RECOG.

HON. KEITH BAIN « » : Speaker, on October 19^th, municipal elections will be taking place across Nova Scotia. In Victoria County, five of the eight present councillors will not be reoffering.

I take great pride and honour in recognizing Warden Bruce Morrison, Deputy Warden Larry Dauphinee, and Councillors Paul MacNeil, Barbara Longva, and Norman MacDonald. I want to thank them for their years of service and for all they have done for the municipality and beyond. Warden Morrison, Deputy Warden Dauphinee, and Councillor MacNeil have been in municipal politics as long - or in some cases longer - than I have been an MLA.

To Councillors Perla MacLeod, Fraser Patterson, and Jackie Organ, and all those who will be putting their names forward, I wish you the very best. When you are elected, I will certainly do my best to help you in your role as councillor.

[Page 8893]

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

HOSPICE THRIFT STORE: COM. SERV. - RECOG.

LORELEI NICOLL « » : I stand today to recognize the Hospice Thrift Store located on Glenvale Drive in Sackville. The Hospice Thrift Store is a social enterprise of Hospice Halifax. It is a unique shop that provides affordable clothing and household items, and at the same time supports the work of the hospice organization. All profits go directly to Hospice Halifax, whose mission is to support end-of-life care services in our community. It is a unique shopping experience that allows you to purchase with a purpose.

Every year, Hospice of Halifax welcomes approximately 150 terminally ill patients facing end of life, including vulnerable seniors, people living with physical disabilities, and those who are precariously housed. The Hospice store has a devoted team of volunteers from all over HRM which is an integral part of this team. They work alongside staff members to provide a welcoming and supporting environment for their customers.

Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Hospice Thrift Store for their incredible contribution helping to enhance end-of-life care in HRM.

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

COOKE, IRENE: 105^TH BIRTHDAY - CONGRATS.

TOM TAGGART « » : Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Irene Cooke on her 105^th birthday. Irene was born on July 20^th, 1919. She was the only girl in a family of four. Irene was married to Lloyd Cooke and lived on Birch Hill in Bass River, where she raised her family.

When I was a child growing up in Bass River, Irene was part of a group of mothers who looked out for us kids. She had three children of her own to raise - plus she was a schoolteacher - but she was always there for any of us. Irene is the last of these community mothers. She went to a nursing home when she was 96, but believe it or not, she made her own homemade bread until she was 95.

Irene is a special lady. She means a great deal to me because of how she assisted me through my teenage years. She had a significant impact on my life. I cherish Irene Cooke and I hope to be able to visit her on her 106^th birthday.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member of Halifax Needham begs leave to do an introduction.

[Page 8894]

SUZY HANSEN « » : I'd like everyone to draw their attention to the west gallery. We are also joined by Mary Fougère, the CUPE education coordinator, and we want to thank you for being here today. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Where we only have 26 seconds remaining, we will patiently wait for QP.

[10:00 a.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM.: ILLEGAL LOBSTER MARKET - ACT

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : In southwest Nova Scotia, particularly in the Clare region, we have a very volatile and dangerous situation where the department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the provincial government have totally dropped the ball in dealing with illegal fishing of lobsters and illegal buying outside of the season.

Don't just take my word for it - the fishermen themselves are saying this. Just ask Colin Sproul, who's quoted as saying "it's incumbent on the government" to stop the purchasing. Both levels of government have done nothing to protect these communities.

Speaker, instead of only pointing the finger and laying blame, will this Premier step up and ensure there's adequate enforcement on the commercial buying side to stop the market of illegal lobsters being caught?

THE PREMIER « » : I've certainly spent quite a bit of time in the region over the past couple of months speaking to residents and being on wharves, and speaking to those who are making their livelihood from the ocean as well, so I certainly understand.

I've written to the Prime Minister to ask them to get with it on the enforcement side of things through DFO. As a province, we've doubled our resources for enforcement on the things that are within our control in that area, but I certainly understand the concerns of the residents and I share them. I would ask the member to join us in asking the federal government to really step it up on their enforcement through DFO.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : The member for Clare and I have been out months, even a year, ahead of this government in asking the federal government to step up, but DFO's authority stops at the wharf. We do not have illegal fishing without an illegal buyers' market.

[Page 8895]

Not only has this premier stepped back on the strong policy - the previous government had a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal commercial buyers that get caught - they have also, despite the Premier's claim, cut the budget of Fisheries provincially. They've cut the FTEs in their department, and he says he has doubled the amount of enforcement agents on the ground. That is false, according to his own budgetary documents.

Will the Premier step up, take responsibility instead of only pointing the finger, and understand that the Province has a role in stopping illegal buying of illegal . . .

THE PREMIER « » : I will assure the member that this government has stepped up. The Province is stepping up. We understand the issues. The reality is that we need the support of the federal government on this.

It would be helpful if the member from Yarmouth, from the region, would just acknowledge the fact that the federal government has a significant role to play here and to get on his Liberal cousins in Ottawa, and tell them to get with the program, step up for Nova Scotians, put the politics aside and put Nova Scotians first just like we are on this side of the House.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : I ask the Premier to look at the public record on this. Who was out over a year ago? Myself and the member for Clare, pushing the federal government to step up on this.

It's also the Province. The Premier has cut the Fisheries budget. There is no local enforcement on the ground to deal with the buying of illegal lobsters. He's cut the Fisheries budget. There are no more enforcement officers. He's cut the FTEs in the department, and he's willing to sit back while crime runs rampant and point the finger and not take responsibility. We have called on DFO and the provincial government to form a joint task force to deal with a situation that is dangerous, where lives have been lost and buildings have been burned.

Will the Premier accept his responsibility, step up, increase enforcement and bring back the zero-tolerance policy?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to assure the member that we understand the issue and we're concerned about it. I only wish that the member was as right as he is passionate. It would be good if he was right on it.

The fact of the matter is that it was a previous government that took away the dedicated fisheries officers in this province. We have stepped up on the law enforcement, doubled the law enforcement resources in the area. We really need the federal government to get on board on this one.

[Page 8896]

The member had an opportunity when he was at a Justin Trudeau fundraiser over the last couple weeks to talk to the Prime Minister. I wish he would take it up with him at those opportunities.

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

PREM.: SCHOOL VIOLENCE - ADDRESS

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Yesterday, thousands of children, teachers, and education workers across the province returned to the classroom for another school year in the wake of the Auditor General's recent report that found that instances of school violence had increased by 60 per cent over the past years.

This was no surprise to families, staff, and educators who have been raising alarms for years, but it was somehow a surprise to this government, who, while this report was being written, maintained that school violence rates were stable.

My question to the Premier is: Why did his government ignore this growing problem until the Auditor General released her report?

THE PREMIER « » : Everyone has a right to expect that their children will be safe at school, that the people who work in our schools - our teachers and other professionals who work in our schools - are safe when they're in their places of employment. We all want that as Nova Scotians. That's not a political thing. That's just a Nova Scotian - that's a human thing, Speaker. It's something we all want.

The reality is that violence and crime in our communities exists - in our society. It's finding its way into our schools. We're taking action as a Province to make sure that our schools are safe places for everyone who is in those buildings, and we'll continue to do that. This is something that all Nova Scotians want, particularly us on this side of the government.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : That violence has been rising for seven years, and yet last year this government said it was stable.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees, who represent thousands of school support staff across the province, have attributed this rise in school violence, in part, to the 2018 dissolution of school boards and the attending loss of community oversight, transparency, and decision-making ability. I'll table that.

With alarming statistics around school violence in the AG report, overcrowded schools, and delays in school capital investments, families deserve transparency and a seat at the table. But this government has now abandoned their 2021 campaign promise to reinstate these elected school boards with no explanation.

[Page 8897]

The government previously described school boards as a critical check and balance in the system . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. Would anyone like to respond to that?

We will be sticking to the 50 seconds to have the question out.

The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party for her final supplementary.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : What?

Speaker, it is shameful that this Premier, once again . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. What I would like to do is just explain the rules.

The rules are that you have 50 seconds to get the question out. (Interruption) Forty-five. Sorry.

I would just like to explain the rules to you.

The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, this Premier will answer one question a day from each Opposition party, and I'm sorry if he doesn't get the question mark at the end, but it is unbelievable that this Premier, who has decided to break yet another election promise not to reinstate elected school boards, will not even stand in his place and answer the question, which I will pose very clearly - with a question mark - in the time allotted.

Why have you broken the promise to Nova Scotian families and students, when violence has been up 60 per cent and school capital is failing across this province, to reinstate elected school boards, which you hammered this Leader for incessantly in his time in office?

THE SPEAKER « » : I ask going forward that the member speak through me, and that includes everyone in the room.

The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, the safety of our schools is incredibly important to all Nova Scotians. It would be disingenuous for somebody to suggest that any Nova Scotian doesn't want students to be safe at school. It would be disingenuous for any Nova Scotian to suggest that any Nova Scotian doesn't want the people who work in those buildings to be safe. Of course we want that.

[Page 8898]

We're working with the SACs. The SACs will be meeting this month with the Province to talk about a code of conduct and what's possible. We all have a role in protecting students. We don't need to scare people with what's happening in our province. We take the safety of our students very seriously and we'll continue to do that.

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

DFA: JOINT TASK FORCE - COMMIT

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : We have a Premier who is all show and no substance, who will stand in this house, lay blame, and point the finger at everybody else - including past governments - without recognizing his own responsibility. We've got a volatile situation in southwest Nova Scotia that the Province - according to the fishermen, according to the laws of the land - have a role to play in terms of dealing with the illegal purchasing of illegally caught lobster.

This government has backed off the zero-tolerance policy for commercial buyers who are caught. There have been no charges under this government for those folks who are being caught purchasing illegal lobsters, unlike previous governments that actually charge them. I'm with him for blaming DFO for part of it. My question to the Premier is: Will he accept his responsibility and help deal with this catastrophic . . .

HON. KENT SMITH « » : Facts matter, and the fact of the matter is that illegal harvesting of lobster starts in the water. As a province, we have zero jurisdiction for enforcing on the water illegal harvesting. That falls entirely on DFO. To say and to criticize the fact that the Province is not doing their part - I take issue with that. We have done absolutely everything under our purview to ensure the safety of our most valuable resource and will continue to do so. We will continue to call on DFO to do their job and keep our province safe.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : The illegal fishing starts on the water. DFO has dropped the ball. We wrote a year ahead of this government asking them to step up and do something about it.

It ends at the wharf. It ends where those illegal lobsters are being bought and sold to other jurisdictions illegally. There have been no charges from this government for those who are buying illegal lobster. They have cut the number of FTEs who enforce these laws on the land. The most they've done is pass a resolution in here that will do nothing about the issue, other than give the Premier and the minister a speaking note on this.

[Page 8899]

Will the minister - will the Premier - commit to having a joint task force of DFO and the provincial government to deal with this issue effectively before someone . . .

KENT SMITH « » : If the member opposite had done his homework, he would know that there already is a joint task force between the federal government and the Atlantic provinces on illegal and unreported cash sales that is begat by illegal harvesting.

The issue with that task force is that it's led by the feds, and it's again another example of them dropping the ball. That committee has met once, after repeated calls from us and our government for them to meet more often.

I also take issue with the fact that he's claiming that they've done everything, and we have done nothing in the past year. I will say that within two weeks of becoming minister, I had a face-to-face meeting with the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and told her face to face that we need help. I wrote a letter on October 17^th asking for help. We've done a lot in the last year.

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

MAH: AFFORDABLE HOUSING - BUILD

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Speaker, on housing we know this Premier is all promise and no progress. He'll talk our ears off about his plan to build 273 public housing units by 2028, but the Premier's plan to double the population will actually bring 170,000 new people into this province by that very time.

The Premier is not keeping up with current supply, and he is increasing the demand on our housing system, which is impacting costs, home ownership costs, rent, and homelessness across the province. My question to the Premier is: If he's going to double the population, how come he's not going to double the amount of affordable housing available in this province?

HON. JOHN LOHR » : We are in an unprecedented build mode as a province. The budget for the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing was $120 million; now it's over $650 million this year. We are spending money on multiple sides of the whole housing spectrum.

For example, we've seen a massive increase in our Down Payment Assistance Program, in the uptake of that program. We are very proud of that, for example. We're working hard. We've seen a 480 per cent increase in the uptake of that program. We have people who are extremely pleased. That's only one example.

[10:15 a.m.]

[Page 8900]

We're working across the spectrum. We're in a massive build in public housing. Some of those units are modular. They're already occupied. We are doing many different things. I'm very proud of our record.

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : The government brags about how much money they're spending, about the uptake of people who need financial support to deal with this housing market. Does the minister think it's a good thing there's been a 480 per cent increase in people who need support for down payments in this province?

This government is contributing to the housing crisis. They are successfully doubling the population, increasing demand on our housing system while supply does not keep up with it. Instead of actually investing in affordable housing units that are effectively being built by the not-for-profit and charitable sectors, this government is investing millions in silly things like Happipad that have produced nothing.

Can the minister please tell us: How much more Adsum for Women and Children, who have built 25 new units for women and children, could have done with that money for Happipad?

JOHN LOHR « » : We're investing in many types and many fronts of different programs. In terms of Happipad, I'm happy to say that we have 37 now in the program, and in fact recently, we had a homeless couple find a place in Happipad just in the past week. We see growth in that program. I believe in that program. Some things take more time than others. That one is growing, and I appreciate the attention being brought to it.

Our Down Payment Assistance Program - we've changed the program several times to make it more accessible from the program that we had inherited. I will table a comment from a constituent who said, "I really appreciate your help and efforts in getting us this assistance. Without this, our dream of owning a home in Canada would never become a reality."

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

DHW: CT SCAN WAIT TIMES - ADDRESS

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I would ask the minister to table the remarks there.

Last week, I was approached by a long-time metro resident very concerned about CT scan wait times. This resident had a heart attack eight years ago. She's now in her late 60s. She had a CT scan of her aortic artery in 2018, and that was supposed to be repeated in 2020. She called in April 2022 to set up an appointment, again in January 2023. No luck. She called again last week and was told they are still more than two years behind. Yet, when you go to Nova Scotia Wait Times, it indicates 50 per cent of people get their CT scan at the QEII within 196 days.

[Page 8901]

Why is a woman at risk waiting more than 700 days for her CT scan?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : I don't know about that case specifically, but it is important that people work with their clinicians to understand how risk is stratified. I don't have the details specifically about that case, but I'm happy to speak with the member afterward around the constituent that she mentioned.

What I will say is that we invested very heavily in infrastructure in this province. There were a number of pieces of machinery for diagnostic imaging that were well past their useful life when we formed government. We've invested in CT scans; we've invested in MRIs. We'll continue to do so. We've announced CT scanning capability across this province. There is a SPECT CT that's going to Yarmouth. There is a new PET scanner that's going to Sydney, Queens, other places.

I want to assure the member we are investing in CT scan capability.

KELLY REGAN « » : I know the Minister of Health and Wellness will acknowledge that some of that CT scan money was in fact replacement money, not new.

Part of this woman's concern is that she knows that even when she does get her appointment, it will involve a lengthy wait. Let's be clear: She cannot be seen by a doctor who specializes in her particular genetic issue until she has this test. Failure to ensure timely access to CT scans condemns people who have genetic issues to living in uncertainty. It is not fixing health care.

Last election, the PCs said they would focus on chronic illness prevention. Timely access to tests is important to prevent health care crisis. I'll share that.

My question for the minister: When can all Nova Scotians get a timely CT scan?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : When clinicians are using CT scanners and MRIs that are years and years past their useful life, they break down. What we have done is we have invested in new technology, making sure our clinicians have state-of-the-art technology to diagnose Nova Scotians in this province.

I will say that we have had a 20 per cent increase in MRIs in this fiscal year, 2023-24. There has been an increase of 26 per cent in ultrasound volume and an increase of 30 per cent in our CT volume. We are taking this very seriously. We had a very big hole to dig out of. We are seeing increases in terms of ability to do these scans because of the investments we have made.

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

[Page 8902]

EECD: NEW SCHOOLS IN HRM - BUILD

SUZY HANSEN « » : Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. The Halifax region has reported an enrolment growth of over 9,000 students over the past five years, and schools are quite literally bursting at the seams. Over one year ago, this government committed to building four new schools in HRM; however, not only has construction not started, there haven't even been locations announced.

Can the minister tell me and all Nova Scotians: Where are these four schools going, and when will there be shovels in the ground?

HON. BECKY DRUHAN » : We know there is growth in HRM. There's growth across the province. Speaker, we are addressing this growth with a historic $1 billion capital plan investment in education.

Not only does that investment encompass four new schools in HRM - and I very much look forward to introducing and announcing the location of those schools when the opportunity arises - it goes beyond just that because for the first time ever, we also have a capital plan that incorporates mid-term and short-term responses to our capital growth needs.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Nova Scotians deserve an answer, and that was not one. We have money being spent but nowhere's where that money is going to be, and no answer to the question that I just asked. Many are concerned by the ongoing lack of transparency in the rollout of new school locations. While these HRM schools are being held in perpetual limbo, new school projects in many government-held constituencies are quickly moving forward. In 2016, this Premier criticized the then-Liberal government for prioritizing school construction in their own constituencies, calling it "schools for votes." Families deserve to know how and why school capital projects are being prioritized. Why does this government insist on making these decisions in the dark?

BECKY DRUHAN « » : I truly wish that prior governments had had the foresight to purchase and acquire and establish land opportunities in the massively, rapidly growing HRM. That didn't happen, so our ability to respond quickly in HRM is very different than in other areas of the province. That being said, we are doing everything we can to move forward quickly with growth in HRM, and that is why our modulars are so important. In HRM, we have delivered modulars in Sackville Heights Elementary School, in Georges P. Vanier Junior High, Millwood High, Harry R. Hamilton Elementary, Ellenvale Junior High, Elizabeth Sutherland School, Bedford South School. We have got Fairview Junior High, Charles P. Allen High School, West Bedford School, and more. We are addressing HRM growth needs.

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

[Page 8903]

EECD: SCHOOL BUILDING DELAY - EXPLAIN

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : In April 2022, I asked the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development to provide an update on the status of the purchase of land in Brunello Estates for the purposes of a new school. HRCE's projections of exponential growth in enrolment showed that a new school was warranted in 2022. I'll table that. While the minister was noncommittal at the time for any new capital projects, I appreciate the meeting that we had and subsequently the purchase of those 11 acres that I've pointed out.

My question to the minister: Why - since the land has been purchased several months ago - has the Nova Scotia School Capital Plan not been updated to commit to a new school in the plan, given her department has quickly built two more portables at the middle school, another portable at the elementary school, and, obviously, a long list of other portables all over HRM?

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : Speaker, we've gone from an allegation that we're not addressing HRM growth needs to an acknowledgement that in fact we are, and can we move more quickly on the projects that we've announced. There is a process for site selection and for identifying exactly where our schools go, and we are following that process.

More than anyone, I will be incredibly excited to provide details to the public when we're in a position to do that. We are not waiting for that to happen to address the growth needs that exist in HRM. We are building schools already in HRM and continuing those capital projects that are already under way. We are installing modulars, and our work continues.

IAIN RANKIN « » : Speaker, why are we delaying the Nova Scotia School Capital Plan in Opposition areas when we know that it takes time - often years - to build a new school? The pressure will only grow - and the pending approval in the BLT area of multi-residential units, the next phase of Brunello and Lovett Lake under way - and after I visited the schools before the House session, I was aware that there were portables put in place.

The administration tells me that the class caps will not be met. There were not actually enough portables built at the middle school. I'll ask the minister to at least approve more portables so that they do have the class caps in place. When will the new school be ultimately approved - out of the four for HRM - since the land is bought for the BLT area?

BECKY DRUHAN « » : I want to reiterate to our HRM families and to communities that we absolutely have prioritized addressing the capital needs and addressing their school growth needs. Speaker, in case the member opposite didn't hear when I explained this previously, we've introduced modulars that have delivered 12 classrooms in Sackville Heights Elementary School, 12 classrooms in Georges P. Vanier Junior High, 12 classrooms in Millwood High.

[Page 8904]

We have delivered six classrooms in Harry R. Hamilton Elementary, 12 classrooms in Ellenvale Junior High, eight classrooms in Elizabeth Sutherland School, four classrooms in Bedford South School. We have eight classrooms in Fairview Junior High, eight classrooms in Charles P. Allen High School, 12 classrooms in West Bedford School. We are meeting Halifax's growth needs.

THE SPEAKER « » : Order.

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Dartmouth.

DHW: PHARMACARE REMOVAL - STOP

LORELEI NICOLL « » : On a totally different subject, seniors in our province rely on the Seniors' Pharmacare Program to access the medication they desperately need to stay healthy. I recently heard from a constituent who, after being enrolled for over 25 years, found themselves unexpectedly removed from the program due to a missed-payment notice.

Despite their intention to stay enrolled, the impact of this error has forced them to pay for critical medication out of pocket and placed significant financial stress on them. My question to the Premier is: What steps is the government taking to ensure that our seniors are not penalized so harshly for missing one payment, particularly when it's due to circumstances beyond their control?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Again, I'm not aware of this issue that she raises. It's helpful when we know in advance so we can work with her and the constituent to see if there's anything we can do to support. We're very focused on the Seniors' Pharmacare Program. We've been able to not change the amount of premiums or copay that are involved. It is a very expensive and expanding program.

We recognize that seniors depend heavily on this program. We continue to find new and innovative ways. We've had over 120 medications added to the Seniors' Pharmacare Program in a number of months in order to be able to serve our seniors better.

I would just encourage the member to certainly reach out and we will see what we can do to help. This is really not the place to resolve the issue.

LORELEI NICOLL « » : It wasn't just one issue, but this is the one I brought forward today. Many seniors live on fixed incomes, and for them, unexpected penalties and wait times can be burdensome. The current penalties of waiting 90 days for re-enrolment and paying a higher premium for five years is simply unaffordable for many, and in this case, it contradicts what was just said.

[Page 8905]

[10:30 a.m.]

Will the Premier commit to reviewing the penalties imposed on seniors for re-enrolment, especially for long-term members of the program, to provide more compassionate and fair treatment in such cases?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We continue to look at our pharmacy programs across the province, not only Seniors' Pharmacare, but also Family Pharmacare. We do our very best. It is necessary that people join Seniors' Pharmacare at a certain age, and we do know that there are penalties associated with that. Wherever possible, if there are extenuating circumstances, we do try to work with individuals.

But the policy exists so that all Nova Scotians will have access to Seniors' Pharmacare as it's required. So again, when there are special circumstances - and we understand that at times there are - we are open to understanding what is happening with individuals and do our best. But at this time, the parameters around Seniors' Pharmacare will remain unchanged.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Annapolis.

DHW: URGENT TREATMENT FOR ANNAPOLIS - PROVIDE

CARMAN KERR « » : I've stood here dozens of times before, advocating for better urgent and emergent care in Annapolis, and I'm here to do it again. Under this government, our emergency room in Annapolis was eliminated. It was replaced with a part-time urgent treatment centre. Several constituents have reported to me that they're not able to access it. It's nearly impossible. They make multiple calls a day with no access. They make multiple calls a week, same thing, no access.

My question to the Premier or the Minister of Health and Wellness is: When will residents of Annapolis see urgent treatment be provided to them in Annapolis?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We continue to work in the area in regard to access to care, and certainly the virtual Urgent Treatment Centre that was recently opened. The member emailed recently - which I don't have today, but am certainly happy to table - and thanked us for including that site in terms of the Urgent Treatment Centre.

We continue to work with the HR that we have, making sure that there are a number of different opportunities for people to access primary care. We've done that in the Western Zone. We will continue to do that. It's very helpful when people in community work with us to help recruit and retain health care professionals and look at innovative solutions in order to help us deliver care in the area.

[Page 8906]

CARMAN KERR « » : Let's be clear: I did email the Minister of Health and Wellness to thank her for adding virtual urgent care to the Middleton location. Constituents I represent expect me to be balanced and fair, and I'll continue to do so. So give credit when it's due, but also be critical when it's due.

I'm talking about a completely different location. I'm talking about the Annapolis Royal catchment, where no one is able to access urgent treatment care. Closed June 19, closed June 24, closed June 28, closed July 1, closed July 5, July 10, July 22, July 24, August 19, and it goes on and on. I don't have enough time to mention all the closures of the Urgent Treatment Centre in Annapolis. When will residents of Annapolis expect urgent treatment care?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Certainly, we continue to work with the staffing levels that we have. We've done a great deal of work around recruitment and retention of health care workers. We have had over 300 physicians come to Nova Scotia in the last number of years. We continually look at options.

There are a variety of different ways in which people can access care. Through VirtualCareNS, there are primary care clinics, there are community-based pharmacy clinics that can help see people. We know that there is a physician shortage. We continue to work in all areas of the province and we will continue to do so.

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

EECD: 2SLGBTQIA+ STUDENTS - SUPPORT

LISA LACHANCE « » : My question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. Last year, almost 50 per cent of 2SLGBTQIA+ students reported feeling unsafe at school. I'll table that.

Sadly, this government has refused to make crucial updates to the guidelines for supporting trans and gender-non-conforming students, despite the fact that a draft of the updated guidelines was under review last September. Why is this government failing to respond to rising homophobia and transphobia in our schools with the urgency that is needed?

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : Every one of our students has the right to learn and grow in a space where they are welcome, where they are respected, and where they belong. Our gender-diverse students absolutely have that right as well. We are very much focusing on ensuring that we support them in our schools.

The question in relation to safety is also incredibly important. We have significant safety work under way that will help support our gender-diverse students and ensure that they, as well as all of our other students, feel safe in their schools.

[Page 8907]

LISA LACHANCE « » : Yesterday marked the second new school year since the government began their review of these guidelines. The lack of action by this government has very real effects. Compared to their peers, 2SLGBTQIA+ students are significantly less likely to feel like they belong or can be themselves at school. Only 20 per cent think that their school properly responds to transphobia and homophobia.

My question to the minister is: Why is this government letting another school year go by without supporting and protecting these students?

BECKY DRUHAN « » : Staff in education across the province work very hard every single day to ensure that all our students feel safe and respected in school. That goes as well for our 2SLGBTQIA+ students.

We have resources and supports in schools that address the specific needs of those students. We have staff in place who are focused on those needs. It goes beyond that as well: To feel included in a school you need to see yourself represented and reflected. That's why we have materials in schools that do reflect our diverse communities across the province. It's about connection, and that's why we have those resources. It's also about safety. That's why we prioritized our work on safety - to ensure that all of our students feel safe and respected in our schools.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honorable member for Clare.

DFA: ILLEGAL LOBSTER FISHING - ADDRESS

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : Clearly the federal minister and her department have failed in their responsibilities. Their authority ends at the wharf and the provincial government's authority begins on land with the regulating and policing of fish buyers.

On August 27^th, I requested an emergency meeting of the Standing Committee on Natural Resources and Economic Development with the topic of addressing enforcement gaps in illegal fishing in Nova Scotia, which included industry stakeholders. Unfortunately, it did not receive unanimous consent.

My question to the minister is: Is the minister in support of convening an emergency meeting of the standing committee to discuss the gaps in enforcement?

HON. KENT SMITH « » : It's not for us on this side to comment on the direction of those committees. What I will say is that for our part we, on top of continuing to call for DFO's increased enforcement on the water, in the last year, have increased the fines for our buyers and processors if they are caught with illegally harvested lobsters up to $1 million.

[Page 8908]

We recently sent two letters to our buyers and processors reminding them of their obligations under the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act to have only lawfully harvested product in their facilities. We are stepping up enforcement efforts on the ground, but I can't go into details because I don't want to give away what we're doing.

As the Premier noted, we've also doubled the RCMP enforcement on the ground. We are doing our part. We need DFO to do theirs.

RONNIE LEBLANC « » : I am getting reports of landings in Saulnierville - boats coming in with 4,000 to 5,000 pounds - while fishermen who have legal licenses are tied up at the wharf watching this happen.

I fully agree that DFO and the minister are turning a blind eye to this situation and have abandoned what is going on there. At the same time, the province does have a role to play. The fishermen are asking that the minister step in. I've seen trucks leaving Saulnierville, SUVs with trailers with lobsters on the back. There has to be a way to address the illegal sale of lobster, and I am asking the minister to step forward.

KENT SMITH « » : I am glad that we can all agree that DFO is at the root of all of this problem here in our province with illegal fishing on the ground. As I've said earlier, the entire responsibility for getting these lobsters out of the ocean and stopping it on the water falls on DFO.

For our part - for the third or fourth time today - I feel like our department is doing everything that we possibly can to be helpful. The most recent letter that I sent to the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada has not yet received a response, but I have called on her to come here, meet with us, meet with me, meet with the member opposite, and people on the ground. We are focused on finding a solution. We can't do it all. We can't do it alone. We need DFO's help, and we need it now.

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

DPW: HIGHWAY NO. 125 REPAIRS - UPDATE

FRED TILLEY « » : My question is for the Minister of Public Works. In Estimates last Spring, I asked the minister when the dangerous ruts would be repaired on Highway No. 125. The answer was that we are two years out on those repairs, but the minister indicated that the engineer would go down, have a look at it, and see what could be done in the meantime. I am looking for an update on the Highway No. 125 ruts.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : I do recall our conversation in Estimates that the member brought forward about the rutting on Highway No. 125. It is part of our capital plan for 2026-27. When the member brought it up at Estimates, we had crews go down and look at the rutting that is there and they continue to monitor it.

[Page 8909]

We do have one of the largest capital plans that we have ever had in this province. They will continue to monitor those ruts and do whatever they have to do, but right now this is where we are at.

FRED TILLEY « » : I am glad to see that they are monitoring the ruts, because constituents are monitoring them daily. There are folks who are driving that highway daily and it is very dangerous, especially when there is bad weather or someone who doesn't know the roads. I would just implore the minister to try to get the capital plan more, faster, moved up. (Laughter) You see what I did there? In all seriousness, it is a very dangerous situation.

KIM MASLAND « » : I certainly share the concerns of the honourable member, and certainly speaking up for his constituents. Safety is our top priority at the Department of Public Works on all of our roads, highways, and bridges. I want to assure the member that we will continue to monitor those.

I know many of the members now are getting calls to have their five-year highway meetings with the chief engineer in the department. I certainly encourage all of you to make sure you have those meetings so that your priorities are being put forward, but I thank the honourable member for the question.

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

DPW: ROUTE NO. 366 CLOSURE - EXPLAIN

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Today I would like to ask a question to the Minister of Public Works regarding Route No. 366. It's an emergency route for all Nova Scotians in the event of flooding on the Chignecto Isthmus or for reason of disruption for any reason on the Trans-Canada Highway.

Since April, Route No. 366 has been closed and there has been put in place a long detour. In reviewing FOIPOP information from the department, we can see that there were people in the department who felt this should have been made a priority and that this culvert should have been replaced urgently. Despite that, the government has chosen not to make it urgent. Can the Premier or the minister tell us why?

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : I certainly do not agree with the honourable member across the aisle saying that we have not made this a priority. That is absolutely incorrect, and she knows that.

[10:45 a.m.]

[Page 8910]

There has been constant conversation and dialogue with the department and the member, with members of the community. That culvert was scheduled on a five-year highway plan to be replaced. Sadly, it failed.

This is a very significant project that we are completing there. The member had no problem when we put $9 million on a gravel road to improve the detour. The pile-driving for the foundations is expected to commence this week, and we will continue on the project.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : The reason we needed so many million dollars worth of gravel is because the roads had not been taken care of for many years. I've got quotes from the people in the department saying how deplorable the gravel roads were.

I'm going to also respectfully disagree with the minister, because I've had many experts and contractors - including people confidentially within the department - tell me that this culvert could have been replaced within one or two weeks. In fact, I'm going to table documents from the department where their own people said this should be replaced urgently.

Once again, my question to the minister is: Is this is a political ploy, is that the reason for the delays, and why was this not made urgent?

THE SPEAKER « » : I ask that you table those documents.

The honourable Minister of Public Works.

KIM MASLAND « » : Oh my, everyone thinks they're an engineer. That's one of the things I learned when I became the Minister of Public Works: Everybody thinks they're an engineer. This is a very significant project. This took permitting from DNRR. This took permitting from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. This took permitting from the Department of Environment and Climate Change. It is being replaced as an emergency. It's a very significant structure that is being put in there and is expected to be completed in the Fall of 2024.

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

DAE: STUDENT HOUSING STRATEGY DELAY - ADDRESS

LISA LACHANCE « » : My question is for the Minister of Advanced Education: As university students are settling into their new programs and courses, we know that too many are not settling into adequate housing. In 2022, Students Nova Scotia found that nine per cent of students were couchsurfing and an additional 17 per cent were living in crowded housing without enough beds for their household.

I can tell you that, in 2024, that trend continues. The door opens in my constituency to too many people in small apartments. This government continues to drag its feet on the promised student housing strategy that was supposed to be released last year. Can the minister tell us where it is? Where is the student housing strategy, and why the delay?

[Page 8911]

HON. BRIAN WONG « » : First, I'd like to take the opportunity to welcome all students back to post-secondary schools right across this province. One thing I'd like to mention is that we did not wait for a student housing strategy.

This government has announced 620 seats in post-secondary housing through NSCC. We continue to work with our post-secondaries. Dalhousie University has added 200 beds to their student housing. We have an extra 38 beds just added because of our $3 million investment with the Atlantic School of Theology. Cape Breton University continues to add beds - Acadia University - and we continue to add housing.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Happipad was initially pitched as a quick fix to the student housing crisis. Last Spring, the minister said that building student housing takes time and the only thing this government could do overnight was a home-sharing plan. I'll table that.

One year and $1.3 million later, fewer than 40 Happipad leases have been signed. I'll table that. This government's overnight solutions clearly aren't working. We need a well-thought-out long-term plan. How much longer is this government going to leave students scrambling for housing without a proper strategy - a strategy they promised, a strategy they consulted on - to ensure that students are housed?

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

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

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

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Speaker, I rise on a point of order.

I understand that you're new to the Chair, and there are going to be growing pains and the need to explain rules again and to set a tone, because you're now the tone-setter for the House. But today in Question Period, because of that, we lost about two to three minutes of questioning in an already-condensed Question Period.

I'm curious, if it's the will of the Speaker, that if we're in a situation like this again - in these early days, where we're just all getting used to it - if that would be something that we could add on to the end of the 50-minute allotted time.

THE SPEAKER « » : It's not a point of order. Sometimes we get fewer questions; sometimes we get more. At the end of the day, we could look back through the tapes, and I have been watching the time very closely to stop everyone at the 45 seconds. I think that was proven.

[Page 8912]

I thank you for your comments. I appreciate it. But it is now Government Business.

The honourable Government House Leader.

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

PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 459.

Bill No. 459 - Health Professional Associations Continuation Act.

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

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Speaker, I move that Bill No. 459, the Health Professional Associations Continuation Act, be now read a second time.

Just a few comments before I take my place. It is my pleasure to rise in the House for second reading of this important housekeeping amendment. This bill establishes the new Dental Association Act and the Optometrists Association Act. These associations play a vital role and advocate on behalf of their professions, bringing their voices to the table in discussions with the Province. These Acts are necessary to enable the implementation of the Regulated Health Professions Act that was introduced last Fall.

Although these changes are straightforward and indeed housekeeping in nature, as we modernize and rebuild our health care system, we recognize the importance of the investments across the system in infrastructure, technology, and workforce, but we also have to keep our laws and regulations up to date and current.

As such, while these laws today may seem small and have a small impact, they are key in supporting the overall transformation of our health care system and the oversight of our regulated health care bodies.

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

BRAEDON CLARK « » : Thank you to the minister for those comments. I'll just speak briefly on behalf of my colleague for Bedford Basin as well.

[Page 8913]

Obviously, I agree with the minister's characterization of this as primarily a housekeeping bill to clean things up. Obviously, dentists and optometrists do important work and they are a key part of the health care system and the health care of each and every one of us here in Nova Scotia.

Again, these are fairly straightforward amendments that I don't see any major issue with. With that, I will take my seat.

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

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : I'm happy to rise and speak on second reading of Bill No. 459. The introduction of this legislation shows that slow progress is being made on the Regulated Health Professions Act that was introduced last Fall. The Dental Association Act and the Optometrists Association Act are the first two of a total of 21 Acts that are being addressed in the bill, and hopefully the slow progress hopefully means that the government is taking the time to work closely with those impacted to ensure a smooth transition to the new regulations.

Our caucus is supportive of any changes that improve public safety, enhance oversight, and hasten approvals and licensing of health care providers. We must work together with experts to do these things, and we must do it transparently.

Just a small point, Speaker. More information from the government on the specifics of bills and the general progress being made on the Regulated Health Professions Act would have been helpful to have in advance.

In short, we hope to see more details emerge about the bill and we would love to hear from those dentists and optometrists who are impacted, so I guess we will hope to hear from them at Law Amendments Committee.

In the long term, of course, we ask for greater transparency as the remaining 19 Acts are replaced as we go through this process.

THE SPEAKER « » : If I am to recognize the honourable Minister of Health and Wellness it will be to close debate on Bill No. 459, the Health Professional Associations Continuation Act.

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Thank you, Speaker. I will just say it's interesting that when we introduced the bill last year for the health professional regulations, we were too fast and now we're too slow.

[Page 8914]

I want to assure folks that this is very important collaborative work that's happening between the Department of Health and Wellness and the respective colleges and associations. I think to say that "It's slow progress" really diminishes the work that these organizations have been doing with the department.

We want to be intentional. We want to make sure that as we transform, we do the right things, and we enable our health care professions to represent themselves. I think that is not a true representation of the important work that's happening. I now move to close debate on second reading of Bill No. 459.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is to close debate on second reading of Bill No. 459, the Health Professional Associations Continuation Act.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

That motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Would you please call Bill No. 464, the Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act.

Bill No. 464 - Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

HON. JILL BALSER « » : Speaker, I move that Bill No. 464 now be read a second time.

I am pleased to rise today before this House to read for a second time Bill No. 464, an Act Respecting Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia. This bill will truly strengthen workplaces in Nova Scotia.

As Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration, I am always listening to Nova Scotians, and I am grateful when they share their ideas and their experiences, and I learn from all of them. I take to heart what Nova Scotians tell me and I want to do what I can to support them.

I am proud of the amendments within this bill that aim to do just that, amendments that Nova Scotians told us would help, amendments that were recommended by the work of the Nova Scotia Workers' Compensation Review Committee, amendments that would make a difference to workers and their families, now and for generations to come.

[Page 8915]

Today the Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act offers amendments to the Workers' Compensation Act that will help modernize the workers' compensation system. It will ensure that occupational health and safety has stable funding, which will help increase supports for workplaces and workers in Nova Scotia. It will implement regularly scheduled reviews of the workers' compensation system. It will establish a return-to-work process that will help injured workers return to work, which will in turn help their recovery.

The amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act will clarify that occupational health and safety includes psychological health and safety, and it will create a statutory duty for employers to establish and implement policies respecting the prevention of harassment in the workplace, in accordance with the regulations.

Finally, this bill will protect workers by amending the Labour Standards Code to create five unpaid sick leave days for general illness. This will be in addition to the three unpaid days already allowed for medical appointments and family illness leave currently in the code. And we will create a 27-week unpaid leave for employees who are dealing with a serious illness or injury. Eligible employees would have the job protection they need so they can focus on recovery.

These changes align with the federal government's Employment Insurance sickness benefits. We have heard from community partners who told us that improved job protection for employees who are dealing with a serious illness or injury will make a real difference. Workers shouldn't need to worry about anything but getting better. Stronger workplaces in Nova Scotia will better support workers and employers. That in turn will help us attract and retain people in our workforce. This is one way we can make our province better.

I now welcome comments from members on the opposite side.

THE SPEAKER « » : (Nolan Young): The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Dartmouth.

LORELEI NICOLL « » : Today is a promising step in the right direction for Nova Scotians with job-protected leave being debated and hopefully soon to be passed. Those facing serious illness like cancer can focus on their health, knowing that their job will be waiting for them when they're ready to return.

I want to acknowledge the good work and all the consultation that took place through the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration and acknowledge their hard work with the Workers' Compensation Board, the Canadian Cancer Society, and various community partners. That does take a lot of time, and it's going to make positive improvements for all Nova Scotians.

[Page 8916]

[11:00 a.m.]

The decision to extend job-protected leave from three days to 26 weeks builds on a bill originally brought forward here in 2023 by the member for Bedford Basin. This ensures that Nova Scotians facing a serious illness can take the necessary time off without fear of losing their job. This is not about politics. It's about people. It's about Nova Scotians. I'm grateful that the government has recognized the importance of this idea and acted on it, ensuring that so many families across our province will have the peace of mind they need during the most difficult times of their lives.

I want to take a moment to recognize the member for Bedford Basin for the dedication to this cause, as well as the Leader of the Official Opposition, for continuing to champion job-protected leave. We did it with Ruby's Law for infant loss, and we're here again. I want to acknowledge that. It's also important to acknowledge that this was an issue where all parties were able to come together - I can't emphasize that enough - as demonstrated when the resolutions to study job-protected leave passed unanimously in November 2023. This shows that when we focus in this room on what's really best for Nova Scotians, we can achieve real progress.

This move will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many Nova Scotians, ensuring that during some of their toughest moments - I'm acknowledging many right now, and I'm sure we all are thinking of loved ones in that situation - they won't have to worry about their job. Today we've shown that when we work together, we can make life so much better for the people we serve.

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

KENDRA COOMBES « » : When I first came to the Legislature, improving Workers' Compensation Board and labour protections was one of my main goals. It was something I worked towards, put forward a bill on for the WCB review. I am happy the minister took that to heart. I want to thank the Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration for actually reading the bill, for speaking to me about it numerous times, and for that I acknowledge her.

I got to be a part of the WCB review. I went to the meetings, I sent in multiple emails and brought forward stories. It was my privilege to bring forward the stories of my constituents and help them tell their stories to the minister, to the WCB review committee, so that they understood the importance of this review and the need to improve WCB for all workers.

With that, we are pleased in the Nova Scotia NDP caucus to see the government make progress on some key issues that will help improve our WCB system and our worker protections. Job protection for those facing serious illness or injury is important and something that we know advocates have been calling for for some time. For them, the advocates who've been working to improve WCB, to the widow who lost her husband and had to fight for benefits, to the workers who are injured, who are continuously having to fight for their benefits, to the worker who is told to go back to work before their surgeon told them they were ready - to all of those people, I give my wholehearted thank you. It's because of them that this review is taking place. To the unions, who also fought, and to the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, who also fought for this review, I thank them for their advocacy.

[Page 8917]

While the improvements to the number of sick days are welcome, our caucus remains committed that this government needs to take bold action and legislate paid sick days and paid leave for Nova Scotian workers.

The addition of psychological safety under the Occupational Health and Safety Act is something I personally have spoken to in this House on multiple occasions and on which my caucus has introduced legislation on several occasions. I look forward to learning more details about what will be included under the definitions, what improved reporting mechanisms will look like, and how this new policy will be rolled out and communicated to the employers and the employees. This is a positive step forward and one that our caucus is happy to support.

Finally, I understand this bill contains multiple key changes to our WCB system that were prompted from the recently released report. Required reviews is an important first step in proving the accountability of our system. We hope to see that this government is committed to ensuring workers' voices are well-represented in these future reviews.

There are a lot of different elements contained in this bill, Speaker. We look forward to robust discussions at Law Amendments Committee and continued discussion about how we can improve workplace protections for all workers.

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

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I stand in support of Bill No. 464. I also look forward to hearing from stakeholders at the Law Amendments Committee.

Upon reviewing this bill, there are a couple of things I just want to comment on, and one is workers' compensation. When I'm hearing from business owners in particular, obviously they're very concerned about the high costs here in Nova Scotia that we pay for workers' compensation. I wanted just to make a note: One of the significant reasons for the long delays is the lack of access to diagnostic testing and lack of access to other health care professionals. That is one of the things that need to be addressed. I don't see that, obviously, in this bill. It certainly is important.

[Page 8918]

Also, in this bill, it talks about a prevention of workplace harassment policy, which is good to see, but I think we also need to look at management of harassment and policies around how business owners manage the workplace harassment after it happens. This bill talks about preventing workplace harassment, but we need to also look at managing that when it does happen.

Recently, I have spoken with a constituent who suffered at the hands of a co-worker very severe sexual harassment in the workplace. This unfortunately happens way too often. I'm hoping that this workplace harassment policy will include very specific work around sexual harassment, sexual assault, and violence in the workplace as well.

I'm also just curious if it will be retroactive when this bill does come into effect. Will it be looking at historical effects? Will it be looking at historical injuries as well?

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

THE SPEAKER « » : If I am to recognize the honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration, it is to close debate.

The honourable Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

HON. JILL BALSER « » : I want to thank each member for your thoughtful comments, and for your unwavering support.

When I first took on the task of Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration - I said it this morning in an interview - I really didn't have a whole lot of knowledge or connection to the Workers' Compensation system or the Board. But with conversations, especially with the member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier, and constituents and other members in this House, it was evident that 20 years of this system not being looked at was far too long.

Knowing that there is an opportunity ahead of us to make sure that that never happens again, that's why the review for five years has been implemented in this legislation. There were many important points - and this is just the start. Because the work of the Review Committee has now set us a pathway to say, This is the responsibility that the department has. Again, we are acting with this bill by making significant changes to return-to-work, the review, and putting a purpose statement in the Act as well, but also recognizing the importance of psychological health and safety. Our workplaces are changing. We have to make sure that legislation changes with it.

The Review Committee in their work and recommendations, we know that there is work that the WCB is going to have to do, that with employers and workers, that conversation is now going to be a requirement so that we can make sure that we have a system that can be sustainable for the long term. That's what we want for workers and employers across this province.

[Page 8919]

For every Nova Scotian who came to those consultations, who shared their personal experience and their stories, I want to say that we heard you and that your voices are reflected in that report and reflected in this legislation, that I hope will make it through to the finish line, because it is significant.

The piece with the Labour Standards Code, of course, for the member for Cole Harbour-Dartmouth: We have to recognize that this was brought forward to the floor. I also said then that I would do something about it, and I am. This is so personal to me and so many others, and it's going to make a significant difference for people to recover and focus on healing in their time of need.

Speaker, with those few words, I just want to say to the members opposite, thank you. This was significant. I am so incredibly proud of my team at the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration for pushing this and making this happen.

I move to close debate on Bill No. 464, An Act Respecting Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 464.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Speaker, that concludes government business for the day. I move that the House do now rise to meet again on Tuesday, September 10^th between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Law Amendments Committee will be held on Monday, September 9^th between noon and 7:00 p.m.

Government business will include second reading of Bill No. 467 and second reading of Private and Local Bill No. 469.

Thank you. Have a great weekend.

[Page 8920]

THE SPEAKER « » : There is a motion to adjourn.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

We will adjourn until Tuesday, September 10^th from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

[The House rose at 11:14 a.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 8921]

RESOLUTION NO. 1,112

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

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

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

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

Whereas on July 16^th, 2024, Brea Moreau and Garrett Himmelman welcomed their daughter Scarlett Lynn Himmelman into the world;

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

RESOLUTION NO. 1,113

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

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

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

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

Whereas on July 30^th, Alecia and Andrew Anthony welcomed their daughter Isabella Hope Anthony into the world;

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

[Page 8922]

RESOLUTION NO. 1,114

By: Hon. Kim Masland (Queens)

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

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

Whereas it was once said that a marriage is the celebration of love, trust, and partnership; and

Whereas on August 10^th, 2024, a very special occasion took place when Jesse Marsters and Victoria Cook of Queens County celebrated their wedding;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jesse and Victoria on their marriage and wish them a lifetime of health and happiness.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,115

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 Anchors Gate, overlooking Shad Bay and decorated in a "nautical theme," is the perfect location for a peaceful seaside stay in Nova Scotia where your senses will be pleasantly stimulated by the sea; and

Whereas this beautiful accommodation is only 20 minutes from Halifax and Nova Scotia's most iconic attraction, Peggy's Cove, and within a short drive of many other attractions in the province; and

Whereas an amazing continental breakfast including homemade French toast with real maple syrup and homemade jam, fresh-picked blueberries and yogurt, and plenty of hot, fresh coffee, including interesting conversation to provide you with a great start to the day;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking hosts Nancy and George for extending their warm and welcoming Maritime hospitality and for allowing visitors a spectacular room with a view of the bay and a wonderful experience in Nova Scotia.

[Page 8923]

RESOLUTION NO. 1,116

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 Mary Jane Lundy is a master artisan ceramic sculptor who creates clay sculptures and works with Nova Scotia Lantz red earthenware clay; and

Whereas Mary Jane is inspired by the sea life found in the Maritime waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the birds and plant life that inhabit its shoreline showcasing whimsical and unique creatures; and

Whereas her studio is located in the beautiful coastal community of East Dover where she gets her love of the ocean and inspiration for her art work;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Mary Jane Lundy for sharing her artistic masterpieces that showcases the Maritime perspective and our love of the sea.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,117

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 craftsmanship, quality, and care go into every detail of Dow and Duggan homes, capturing the timeless allure of nature blends where only the finest seasoned eastern white pine, white cedar, and western red cedar logs are used for their timber log homes; and

Whereas every log is handpicked to reflect nature's beauty with modern comforts where skilled artisans collaborate to ensure a deep connection with outdoors and exceptional comfort, including precision cutting of each log with a proven triple tongue and groove system; and

Whereas their state-of-the-art, kiln-dried laminated log, Super log, is unique when compared to timber log construction, and they are one of the very few log home manufacturers in the world that produce this type of log system, which has less settling and cracking and is easier to maintain;

[Page 8924]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Dow and Duggan Homes for providing quality homes that are beautifully crafted, withstand any environment, and look as attractive 100 years from now as the day they were built and last for generations.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,118

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 Emilio's Snack Bar, located in Shad Bay, serves one of the best pizza and donairs on Prospect Road and offers a convenience store that is well stocked to pick up all of your road trip snacks; and

Whereas the owner and his family, who operate the business, prepare food at the time it's ordered to ensure it's fresh and hot, earning the reputation from local residents and visitors who swear it's the best pizza in the province; and

Whereas the atmosphere of this small, quaint take-out provides a hospitable atmosphere and the meals are tasty and prompt;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the owners and staff at Emilio's Snack Bar for serving the community with delicious, great quality food along with excellent service.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,119

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 Holt's Take Out and General Store was established in Halifax over 40 years ago and is one of the few remaining general stores in Atlantic Canada; and

Whereas Holt's stocks a wide selection of items, including hardware supplies, plumbing supplies, and a range of everyday items such as coffee, groceries, snack foods, confectionery, and soft drinks; and

[Page 8925]

Whereas Holt's Restaurant also carries a number of items available for take-out, including pizza, fish and chips, and donairs;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Holt's for their many years as a successful local business and for providing a convenient and essential service for the Prospect communities.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,120

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 Iron Wind Marine is nestled in the beautiful coastal community of Bayside and is one of Atlantic Canada's largest recreational boat dealerships, focusing on power boating and nothing else; and

Whereas Iron Wind Marine knows that boating in Nova Scotia is a passion and offers convenient one stop shopping for all power boating needs, including boat sales, service, motors, trailers, parts, accessories or storage; and

Whereas Iron Wind Marine carries a big inventory of boats, motors, and trailers that are in stock and readily available so can see the boat in real life, to find the boat that is right for you;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking the Iron Wind Marine family for making it easy to have fun on the water and enjoy the boating lifestyle.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,121

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 Multi Scoop Cafe is a quaint establishment nestled in the heart of Hatchet Lake, Nova Scotia, offering a variety of frozen treats and light snacks to satisfy any craving; and

[Page 8926]

Whereas along with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, Multi Scoop Cafe provides a casual setting for customers to enjoy a refreshing treat or quick bite to eat; and

Whereas Multi Scoop Cafe is famous for its great service and friendly staff, that is a favorite local business where residents like to stop in for a freshly made breakfast sandwich, delicious coffee, or tasty ice cream;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Multi Scoop Cafe for their personalized service and intimate atmosphere, where customers are greeted by familiar faces and where you feel a connection and sense of community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,122

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 Multi-Tech Automotive is an independent family-owned and -operated business with more than 40 years of experience; and

Whereas the staff at Multi Tech Automotive are focused on providing outstanding customer service and are highly motivated to build an outstanding reputation within the community by ensuring their customers receive quality service at a competitive price; and

Whereas their mechanics are masters of their craft, have years of experience working on various car makes and models, are passionate about the quality of their work, and take time to talk you through what went wrong and why certain repairs were needed and make sure you understand the costs involved;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Multi-Tech Automotive for their quality car care and their contribution to serve the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,123

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 8927]

Whereas White Lotus Homeopathy located in Blind Bay, Nova Scotia, is designed to serve the curious and open-minded person seeking answers to why you are sick; and

Whereas homeopathy is energetic medicine that can positively affect the health of our physical body and our mind and provide understanding between the body, mind, and spirit connection, to identify the root causes for physical, mental, and emotional illness; and

Whereas White Lotus will select medicines that are carefully selected homeopathic remedies that correspond with your specific aliments and circumstances;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in recognizing a new experience to receive a comprehensive holistic medical approach to wellness that is in sync with your and your body's natural rhythms and processes of healing.

RESOLUTION NO. 1,124

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 Wilderness Stays Campground is a unique and experiential tourism company located in the picturesque coastal community of East Dover, near one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Nova Scotia, Peggy's Cove; and

Whereas this new and innovative camping experience provides heated, high-quality, natural fire-resistant tents that can be used year-round and boosts an environmentally friendly and state-of-the-art washroom facility to encourage first-time campers to experience the love of being outdoors; and

Whereas this Wilderness Stays camping experience also includes outdoor activities such as exploring the natural beauty of our coastline, hiking the trails, rock climbing, and a variety of water sports that appeals to locals and attracts visitors to our province;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Wilderness Stays campground for helping to expand and develop Nova Scotia's tourism industry to increase our economy and provide an inspiring experience for both locals and visitors to enjoy Nova Scotia's natural beauty.

[Page 8927]