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HALIFAX, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025

Sixty-fifth General Assembly

First Session

1:02 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Danielle Barkhouse

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

John White, Marco MacLeod, Tom Taggart

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : I beg leave to table a petition, the operative clause of which is:

We the undersigned call on the Nova Scotia Legislature to pass Bill 86, which would enact the Auditor General's recommendations and align the additional appropriations process with standards across the country to provide accountability and transparency over the spending of all public funds.

There are a number of signatures here from Halifax Citadel-Sable Island, and I have affixed my own signature.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

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The honourable member for Cumberland North.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I beg leave to table a petition, with the operative clause reading:

Whereas the Nova Scotia Cumberland Regional Healthcare Center Pain Clinic, has been scheduled to close on September 19^th, 2025.

Therefore we the undersigned Patients, Families, as well as participants and related administrators of Cumberland Regional Healthcare Center Chronic Pain Services, receiving interventional pain care, call upon the Minister of Health and Wellness, to reinstate the interventional pain services located at the Cumberland Regional Healthcare Center, by securing all necessary resources, documents, facilities and finances to reestablish this vital healthcare service to all healthcare citizens served by its presence.

Speaker, there are 287 signatures, and I have affixed my signature as per the Rules of the House.

SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, I will be tabling this report in my capacity as Minister of Service Efficiency.

I beg leave to table the 2024 Annual Report of the Office of Service Efficiency: Reducing Red Tape to Improve Government Efficiency and Effectiveness.

THE SPEAKER « » : The report is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a document in regard to my member statement regarding the Reverend Duncan E. Roach from New Waterford.

THE SPEAKER « » : The paper is tabled.

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STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

HON. TIM HOUSTON (The Premier) « » : It's a privilege to stand today to talk about Wind West, Canada's first offshore wind project. For too long, Nova Scotia has faced headwinds. It's time to position the province to put those winds at our back. Wind West has a plan to capture the strong and steady winds from our offshore and deliver clean energy to markets in need. By developing offshore wind and working with our neighbouring provinces, the federal government, and the private sector to build the transmission infrastructure, Nova Scotia is taking a lead role in the global energy transition while also transforming our own economic future.

At its heart, Wind West is about Canada's energy security and climate leadership by unlocking one of the world's greatest untapped clean energy resources - up to 60 gigawatts of potential capacity. It will connect supply to demand from the Atlantic to markets in Ontario, Quebec, and possibly the northeastern United States, and it's doing so with fixed, stable prices that protect consumers and attract investment.

In the first phase alone, up to five gigawatts, or 5,000 megawatts, will generate 24 terawatt hours of clean energy annually. This is equivalent to twice the output of Niagara Falls. This is just the beginning. Its scalability is attractive to the private sector, and we'll continue to develop our expertise as we move forward. This is a nation-building project and opportunity.

The project will drive tens of billions of dollars of new investment, create thousands of jobs, and anchor a brand-new industry in Canada with significant benefits that will be felt across our entire province and country. It will modernize ports, train a new generation of workers, and offer meaningful opportunities for communities to participate. For too long, Nova Scotia has been a have-not province. That ends now. Wind West is the biggest opportunity in front of us, and I will do everything in my power to make it happen.

The federal government has indicated that it matches our ambition. This will be a true partnership with strategic investments, clear actions that we've laid out in our Wind West proposal that can unlock private capital, accelerate development, and reduce risk, all to build our nation and help Nova Scotia become a clean energy superpower, where we export not just electrons but expertise, innovation, and opportunity and raise essential revenues to pay for health care, education, roads, and housing.

I ask all members of the House to acknowledge the benefits that Wind West offers and stand with us as we press forward to make it happen for Nova Scotia. (Standing ovation)

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

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SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Speaker, I am pleased to rise and address the need for clean energy in our province and the opportunities for our province. The plan to finally harness our offshore wind is an important moment for our future. At a time when we risk missing our own clean energy goals, when the current government has only just stopped railing against climate action, and when Nova Scotians are facing another winter of expensive, unreliable power, clean energy cannot come soon enough.

As we ramp up to build this green energy resource, we have to ensure the benefit to Nova Scotians is the top priority. Wind West, as it's described, has the potential to generate and deliver this power. We will support this or any project that finally provides Nova Scotians access to the reliable, affordable, green energy they have been promised by this government and the Liberal government before them.

Offshore wind is a chance to harness our renewable resources, strengthen our grid, create new green jobs, and lower bills to benefit Nova Scotians. At the same time, our $2-billion lobster industry must be a part of these conversations so that future offshore opportunities coexist with our traditional economic drivers. We need to know that good jobs will be available to Nova Scotians. We need to know that if a private sector proponent comes forward and this project becomes more than just a proposal, that the economic impact for our province will be long-lasting and benefit all Nova Scotians.

Power is expensive and still too often generated by burning coal. If we're going to export green energy, we need to make sure we green the power Nova Scotians are using first. As offshore wind plans move forward, we must ensure that Nova Scotians benefit directly.

We look forward to this project moving forward and seeing how everyday Nova Scotians will benefit from it.

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

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, as Liberals, we have long supported the idea of offshore wind and clean energy in our province. Renewable energy is critical to Nova Scotia's future, and the offshore wind presents a generational opportunity for our province.

Clean, more affordable power isn't just good for the environment; it's essential for families and businesses across Nova Scotia. Liberals have long supported the development of clean energy, but we also know that to make that possible, our grid must be ready. We've seen what happens on a bright sunny day when the power goes out. Our current system can't handle the demand we already have.

Before adding more capacity, we need upfront investments to strengthen and modernize our grid. That's why I'm proud to see our Prime Minister Carney and our Liberal government signal that they are ready to be funding partners in these projects. Working together - federally, provincially, and the private sector - we can unlock Nova Scotia's offshore wind potential, deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, create jobs, and build new industries that benefit communities across this province.

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Offshore wind can be the cornerstone of our energy future, but only if we act strategically. I hope to see this government embrace collaboration this time around for the good of all Nova Scotians to see the reality of the potential that offshore wind can have for Nova Scotia and beyond.

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make some introductions in relation to the notice of motion that I will read.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

THE PREMIER « » : I will ask them to rise when I say their names. In the Speaker's Gallery today, we have some Nova Scotians who are making a real impact on their communities. They are members of the Nova Scotia Guard. They've made it their mission to help their neighbours in times of need, with everything from helping at comfort centres to peeling potatoes to feed our first responders to managing parking at a scene - just generally supporting the work of our first responders and Nova Scotians.

This month the Guard is celebrating its first-year anniversary - one year. (Applause) Under the incredible leadership of the minister, the Guard has stepped up to support the RCMP and ground search and rescue crews during a heartbreaking search for Lilly and Jack Sullivan in Pictou County. More recently, they stepped up again during the devastating Long Lake wildfires in Annapolis County.

[1:15 p.m.]

There were over 50 Nova Scotia Guard members who volunteered during these two

events. Unfortunately, space is limited in the gallery today so we couldn't bring them all here for an introduction. I want it to be known to each of them how thankful we are as a Province and that none of their efforts go unnoticed or underappreciated.

Their dedication to supporting their neighbours is the foundation of what the Nova Scotia Guard represents. It exemplifies what it means to be a Nova Scotian. It personifies the Bluenoser spirit that we are all so proud of. Now I would ask each member to please rise as I introduce them, so they may receive the warm welcome of the House.

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Speaker, I would like to introduce Chantal LeBlanc, Bryan Butryn, Bill Muirhead, Victoria Marchall, Maryanne Wagstaff, and Ron Low.

A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you, and welcome to the Legislature today. (Standing ovation)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here and thank you for stepping up to help your fellow Nova Scotians.

The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 191

THE PREMIER « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas our province is experiencing more frequent and severe emergencies like wildfires, floods, and winter storms, and Nova Scotians - by nature - are always quick to show their Bluenoser spirit by helping their neighbours in need in any way they can; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Guard was created one year ago on September 20, 2024, to address the need for a coordinated approach for volunteer emergency response resources; and

Whereas over 2,480 Nova Scotians have registered as Nova Scotia Guard members, completing their training and offering their skills and time to help when they are called upon during emergencies;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Legislature celebrate the Nova Scotia Guard on its first-year anniversary and recognize the impact the Guard and its individual members have had in helping communities in times of need.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

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The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Emergency Management.

HON. KIM MASLAND « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

KIM MASLAND « » : Speaker, everyone in this Chamber knows what it means to be a Nova Scotian: checking in on neighbours, lending a hand to those who are in need, or giving a shoulder to lean on. These are the things that make up the fabric of who we are. Never are those qualities more present than when a community as a whole faces an emergency.

In the Speaker's Gallery today, I'm honoured to recognize just some of the community members from the Bridgetown Volunteer Fire Department in Annapolis County who stepped up, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work to help their community during the devasting Long Lake wildfires.

A lifelong resident and current president of West Dalhousie Community Hall, Jonathan Gillis has recently taken on a new important role as navigator-coordinator of a new program that was established to support residents affected by the Long Lake wildfires. In his new role, Jonathan helps evacuees navigate the complex processes of recovery, including accessing funds, completing insurance claims, and connecting with essential resources.

Working alongside Jonathan is Debbie Stultz-Griffin, the community hall's corporate secretary and past president. Debbie was instrumental in the community hall's cooking and humanitarian efforts. Whether it was helping to get rooms for those who were displaced, money for gas, food, or organizing volunteers, Debbie was at the heart of the matter.

May I also note that both Jonathan and Debbie are evacuees of the Long Lake wildfires themselves. They were both evacuated on August 24^th and despite it all, they both continued to serve their communities, helping more than a hundred volunteer firefighters and most of their community's evacuees while waiting to return to their own homes. I don't know of a greater dedication than that.

I am also honoured to welcome Julie McNabb - a new addition to the community hall and one who has brought so much energy, innovation, and new ideas to the table. Julie helped organize the staggering amount of assistance that has come into the hall and helped to arrange for accommodations, streaming the process for people to submit their offers for help. Julie was instrumental in organizing several large donations to the community.

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The dedication and the love of community they have all shown has proven to be a comfort for those around them. I thank them from the bottom of my heart for all they did and continue to do for the people of West Dalhousie.

I would ask that they all rise so that they may receive the warm welcome of this House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here. It is great to see a whole bunch of homegrown heroes filling up the Speaker's Gallery. Thank you for coming.

The honourable Minister of Emergency Management.

RESOLUTION NO. 192

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

Whereas Nova Scotians are known for their pride in community, unmatched hospitality and the genuine desire to help their neighbours in need; and

Whereas the Long Lake wildfires in Annapolis County have devastated that community, burning over 84 hectares, sadly destroying 20 homes, and forcing over 500 homes to be evacuated; and

Whereas members of that community, in true Bluenoser spirit, stepped up to help their community in need by volunteering at the comfort centre, preparing food for the firefighting crews, and in one case, taking on a brand new role as a system navigator helping those displaced by the fires to find and apply for government supports that can help during this challenging time;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Legislature recognize these outstanding community members who have helped bring a sense of comfort during times of devastation and commend them for being a pillar of strength in their community.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

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The motion is carried. (Standing ovation)

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of L'nu Affairs.

RESOLUTION NO. 193

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

Whereas September 22^nd to 26^th is Truth and Reconciliation Week in Canada; and

Whereas Halifax hosted the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's national youth empowerment event for over 5,000 students and teachers on September 18^th to honour residential school survivors and share in the beauty and strength of Indigenous culture, music, dance, and history; and

Whereas September 30^th is National Truth and Reconciliation Day and Orange Shirt Day in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House join me today in encouraging all Nova Scotians to take a moment on September 30^th to learn about the history and legacy of residential school survivors, and make a commitment to continue our education and awareness in order to build respectful relationships with one another.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Energy.

RESOLUTION NO. 194

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

Whereas Nova Scotia is putting wind to work both onshore and offshore to bring new jobs and investment to our communities and grow our green economy; and

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Whereas we have set things in motion for Nova Scotia and Canada's first call for bids for offshore wind, and we look forward to reaching our full potential as a major exporter of clean energy through Wind West; and

Whereas onshore wind is key to greening the grid, we just reached another milestone with the Benjamins Mill Wind Project completing construction, and we will be preparing more wind that, along with other initiatives, will get us to our 2030 goal;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House recognize the significant progress being made to get off coal and reach 80 percent clean electricity by the end of 2030.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 127 - An Act to Protect Nova Scotians. (Hon. Jill Balser)

Bill No. 128 - An Act to Amend Chapter 31 of the Acts of 1996, the Sales Tax Act. (Claudia Chender)

Bill No. 129 - An Act to Strengthen Electric Utility Reliability Standards. (Hon. Derek Mombourquette)

Bill No. 130 - An Act Respecting Highways and Traffic Safety. (Hon. Fred Tilley)

[1:30 p.m.]

Bill No. 131 - An Act Respecting Privacy and Credit Protection. (Susan Leblanc)

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Bill No. 132 - An Act Respecting Electric Utility Capital Accountability and Transmission Competition. (Hon. Iain Rankin)

Bill No. 133 - An Act to Control Access to Age-restricted Social Media Platforms. (Hon. Iain Rankin)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 195

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the land of Nova Scotia has endured a deep and punishing drought this growing season, leaving fields thirsty, orchards strained, and our farmers and growers uncertain of a tomorrow where their fields will flourish and bloom; and

Whereas our wild blueberry farmers, the stewards of our most treasured and renowned crop, are seeing harvests cut to a fraction of what they should be, threatening livelihoods and the future of an iconic industry, and our apple growers who give us the orchards that shape the Annapolis Valley are struggling to keep young trees alive in the face of the relentless heat; and

Whereas to imagine a Nova Scotia without a wild blueberry or apple industry is to imagine a province without a part of our identity and a part of our history;

Therefore be it resolved that on a future day the House shall devote a period of no less than 40 minutes to debate the importance of providing immediate support to ensure the survival of an industry and to commit meaningful research in soil health to ensure survival of an industry that would fundamentally change Nova Scotia if we lost it.

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

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

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STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Annapolis.

WEST DAL. COMM. CTRE: LONG LAKE FIRE VOLS. - THANKS

DAVID BOWLBY « » : Speaker, I rise today to commend the incredible volunteers at the West Dalhousie Community Centre for their heroic efforts in supporting the fight against the Long Lake fires.

When hundreds of firefighters from across Canada arrived to battle the blaze that grew to more than 8,400 hectares, the community centre became a vital headquarters. Under the leadership of the president, Jonathan Gillis, its members worked tirelessly for the entire operation, providing countless meals, water, and Gatorade to sustain the weary crews.

Their selfless service embodies the very best of our Nova Scotian spirit: resilience, generosity, and community. While they have humbly noted that all costs are covered, their dedication has inspired an outpouring of support from citizens across the province looking to help our neighbours in need.

I ask all members to join me in thanking the volunteers of West Dalhousie for their extraordinary contribution to keeping our residents and our province safe.

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

ROD WILSON « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

ROD WILSON « » : I ask members of the Legislature to join me in welcoming Alan Linkletter, President of CUPE Nova Scotia, and members of the CUPE Long Term & Community Care Committee and bargaining team today.

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. I hope you enjoy your time here.

The honourable member for Halifax Armdale.

CUPE: WORK APPREC. - THANKS

ROD WILSON « » : CUPE Nova Scotia represents 22,000 members in over 140 locals across this province. CUPE members provide quality services in many areas, including long-term care, acute care, emergency services, and home support services. They are currently working above and beyond the call of duty without a contract. Your work is going noticed today. I deeply appreciate your work, as do many of your clients, I expect.

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I want to thank all CUPE members for their care, compassion, and dedication to Nova Scotia in challenging times.

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

RANKIN, HON. IAIN - DAUGHTER: BIRTH - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Speaker, I am thrilled to share very joyful news yet again with the House. First, I want to thank the government for waiting until late September to call the House back. My wife Mary and I are delighted to announce the arrival of our beautiful daughter, Elodie Maye Rankin. Elodie Maye was born on September 16^th. Our hearts are full, and our family is overjoyed to welcome her into our lives. Elodie's big sister, Freya, was especially excited, wanting to hold her, and Eoin especially, to have the new baby in the house.

They have already shown great enthusiasm and eagerness to help out. As we look ahead, Mary and I are filled with anticipation for years to come, teaching, guiding, and nurturing all our children. We look forward to family outings, cheering on our kids at sporting events, and participating at school activities. Out of the three, I'm sure we'll have a piper in the mix, maybe even a fiddler or two. Most important, we are going to be there to love and support each of them.

I want to thank the House for sharing the good news. I want to give a quote from Gordon Wilson, a former MLA, who said there's nothing more pure than a baby's smile and that's certainly true.

THE SPEAKER « » : Congratulations to you and your family, honourable member.

The honourable member for Fairview-Clayton Park.

CLARKE, DEBBY: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

LINA HAMID « » : I rise today to honour the life of Debby Clarke, a beloved and vibrant member of our community who passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Debby was the dedicated partner of the Fairview Legion's Brian Forbes for 25 years.

Debby was a proud Nova Scotian, a cherished daughter, and a loving mother to her two sons, Cory James and Beau Daniel. Debby's spirit was one of boundless generosity and a remarkable can-do attitude. She was a multi-talented woman known for her exceptional skills in cooking, sewing, and crafts.

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Her strength was truly inspirational. Even while battling cancer, she found immense joy and a reason to persevere in the life of her great niece, Zoey Clarke. In a final tribute to her vibrant personality, she requested that everyone wear red, a colour that perfectly captured her beautiful spirit.

Debby Clarke will be remembered for her open heart, warm smile, and unwavering kindness she showed everyone she met. My deepest sympathies go out to her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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

LEGIONS: NATIONAL LEGION WEEK (SEPT. 21-27) - RECOG.

HON. SCOTT ARMSTRONG « » : Speaker, as a proud grandson of a World War I veteran and one of the founding members of Branch 26 of the Truro Legion, I rise today to pay tribute and recognition to Legions across this province and across Canada. The week of September 21^st to September 27^th is National Legion Week. In Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley, we have two Legions: Stewiacke and Upper Musquodoboit.

During this week, Legions educate residents about the great work that they are doing in our areas. They serve and support our veterans and contribute to the well-being of our communities. It is also an opportunity to draw in new members who will volunteer and continue their valuable services. In many rural areas, Legion branches serve as the primary community centre, hosting events such as weddings, town meetings, community barbecues, memorial services, and other important events and activities.

I ask all members to join me in thanking our Legions and their members for their service to our communities, lest we forget.

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

KROL-LASS, DR./STOVANOVIC, DR.: CUMB. PAIN CLINIC SERV. - THANKS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Speaker, today I rise to recognize two extraordinary physicians who have been leading the Cumberland Regional pain clinic, a clinic that for 17 years has provided life-changing care to over 3,000 patients from Cumberland County, but also from across the entire Maritime region.

Dr. Justyna Krol-Lass is a graduate of McGill University's Ronald Melzack Fellowship in Pain Research, one of the most prestigious programs in the country, if not the world. She went on to be recognized as a Fellow in Interventional Pain Procedures by the World Institute of Pain, an achievement that places her among the very best in her field globally. Her colleague, Dr. Dan Stojanovic, completed a Category 2 enhanced skills program in interventional and chronic pain medicine through Dalhousie University. This was an innovative program that he himself designed to bridge the gap between psychological and interventional techniques for pain management.

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These are highly qualified physicians who choose to serve in our region. I implore the minister to work with them to reopen the Cumberland pain clinic.

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

ROSH HASHANAH: DISMANTLING RACISM AND HATE - RECOG.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Speaker, I want to wish the Jewish community a Shanah Tovah and a healthy and sweet new year. The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, began at sunset on September 22^nd. It is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts.

It is perhaps also an opportunity for a renewed effort to make Nova Scotia safer for all of its residents, regardless of religion, race, or cultural background. On the night of September 13^th, every synagogue in Halifax was vandalized with antisemitic graffiti on the same night. They used symbols of hate and conspiracy theory in six separate locations in our city. This has had a major emotional impact on the entire Jewish community.

In 2022, the government, with the support of all parties, adopted the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act. Despite a number of round tables and discussions, a definition of antisemitism has not yet been adopted by the Province. Those who have worked on this bill and advocated know that in order to fulfill the mandate of the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act, we must identify racism and hate so that we can support local law enforcement to protect Nova Scotians.

I'm calling on the Government of Nova Scotia to reaffirm its commitment to working with community leadership to define antisemitism - the intended purpose of this Act.

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

TRACY, ALBERT: DEATH OF - RECOG.

JULIE VANEXAN « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honour Mr. Albert Tracy, a long-time and deeply dedicated resident of Kings South.

For decades, Albert supported countless political figures and campaigns, contributing both quietly behind the scenes and very vocally when his voice needed to be heard. His unwavering commitment to our community was always evident, whether through his hands-on involvement or his thoughtful and candid advice.

I was fortunate to experience Albert's incredible support first-hand. During my nomination, throughout my campaign, and even now in this role, he has been a source of wisdom, encouragement, and perspective. Albert had a way of seeing things differently, bringing insight and experience to those around him.

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Albert Tracy was truly one of the fierce cornerstones of our community - a man whose legacy of service and support will be felt for many years to come. Kings South is better because of him.

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

[1:45 p.m.]

PORTER, GORDON: HABITANT VOL. EFFORTS - THANKS

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize the volunteer efforts of Gordon Porter of Habitant. Gordon is well-known in the community for always going above and beyond to create and connect community, as an English and music teacher at the Canning high school for over 30 years and even more years teaching archery and canoeing skills in the community.

It's no surprise then that when Gordon became aware of the need to feed hundreds of firefighters, he started making trips from home to Cornwallis Park. Not only is he taking his own donations but is gathering donations from around the Canning area, allowing many people to feel connected and feel like they can make a contribution. He has been able to find out what was needed - ranging from granola bars to bacon to vegetables and more - and facilitate many folks in lending their support to the firefighting effort. Food certainly is Nova Scotian's love language, and with Gordon's help, many people have been able to be involved. Last week's callout included homemade pickles, and people have responded with their favourites.

Speaker, I ask all the members of the Legislature to thank Gordon Porter for his volunteer efforts to keep the firefighters well fed and cared for this past summer.

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

TEAM N.S.: 2025 SUMMER GAMES - CONGRATS.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I want to take a moment to celebrate the extraordinary achievement by Team Nova Scotia at the St. John's 2025 Canada Games.

Our athletes delivered an outstanding performance, earning 61 medals: 21 gold, 22 silver, and 18 bronze.

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This accomplishment reflects not only the athletic excellence but also the spirit of teamwork and resilience that defines us as Nova Scotians. From paddling to basketball, our athletes gave it their all, pushing each other to do their best and lifting one another up along the way.

To all the athletes and coaches, the pride, energy, and camaraderie you brought to every event truly captured the spirit of our province.

Congratulations, Team Nova Scotia. You have made us all very proud.

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

SALEH, DR. AHMED: N.S. HEALTH AWARD - CONGRATS.

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding physician leader, Dr. Ahmed Saleh, who is a psychiatrist based at Valley Regional Hospital in Kentville.

Dr. Saleh was recently awarded the Leadership Excellence Award - Physician Leader, one of the Nova Scotia Health Authority's highest honours. This award celebrates a physician who leads with compassion, integrity, and vision, all qualities that define Dr. Saleh's remarkable service.

Since joining Valley Regional in 2018, Dr. Saleh has driven province-wide improvements in mental health and addictions care. He currently serves as site lead for psychiatry at Valley Regional Hospital and department head of psychiatry for the Western Zone.

Dr. Saleh is committed to helping individuals in acute mental health crisis and brings that frontline perspective to system-wide planning. He is a strong advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, and accessibility in all aspects of health care.

Humble in receiving this honour, Dr. Saleh shares credit with his colleagues, calling himself just a small part of a dedicated team.

Speaker, I ask all members of this House to join me in congratulating Dr. Ahmed Saleh on his well-deserved recognition and in thanking him for his exceptional leadership and contributions to mental health care in Nova Scotia.

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

D'MOUTH PLAYERS: STAIRS MEMORIAL UNITED SITE - CONGRATS.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Speaker, with roots going back to the late 1950s, the Dartmouth Players community theatre continues their legacy as being the only community theatre in Dartmouth, as well as one of the most active volunteer-based theatre groups in Nova Scotia. Throughout their history, they have demonstrated a perseverance through many location changes and loss of theatre spaces while staying dedicated to the art of live theatre. In the fall of 1987, they found their home of over 30 years at the Crichton Avenue community centre, where they hosted over 60 plays and grew their audience to upwards of 5,000 people per season.

[Page 1708]

Unfortunately, in 2022 they were required to leave that space behind. However, after spending two years in a temporary location, I now get to welcome them into the community of Dartmouth North in their new permanent location at the Stairs Memorial United Church on Hester Street.

Currently on stage at the new space, The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie and directed by Phil Blackmore, is playing until September 27^th. You should get your tickets before they sell out.

I would ask the whole House to join me in recognizing and welcoming the Dartmouth Players community theatre to their new location and to wish them the best of luck for the future of theatre in Dartmouth North.

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

LIBERALS (N.S.): AGM - RECOG.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I rise in my place because, this past weekend, we saw hundreds of people come together to join us at our annual general meeting here in Halifax. Liberals from all across Nova Scotia and concerned citizens came together to talk about what's important to them and what's important to their communities. A lot of work goes into that, and a lot of volunteers are owed a lot of thanks for a wonderful weekend.

It was also an opportunity for Liberals, both here provincially elected and federally, to sit down together as a party and talk about important initiatives that are important to Nova Scotia, including cost of living, including issues that support communities each and every day, and the potential that wind energy brings to our province.

I rise in my place to thank all of the volunteers who put on an outstanding weekend, bringing us all together. I also rise in my place to thank my federal colleagues for the wonderful and important conversation around how as Liberals we can help to move this province forward.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton East.

[Page 1709]

CAPE BRETON MED. CAMPUS: OPENING - CONGRATS.

HON. BRIAN COMER « » : Today I rise to recognize the incredible dedication and hard work that went into establishing the Cape Breton Medical Campus. This milestone is transformational in expanding educational opportunities and addressing critical health care needs across our province.

The creation of this medical school opens new opportunities for aspiring physicians from the region and strengthens access to health care in rural communities across the province. Training 30 additional doctors each year will help ensure that people in remote and underserved areas can receive timely, quality care close to home. This achievement reflects the commitment of countless individuals, educators, health care professionals, community leaders, and government partners who worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact this institution will have on both the health care system and the opportunities it will create for students and families across Nova Scotia.

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

KENDRA COOMBES « » : I beg leave to make two introductions.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : In our gallery today, we have former MLA Mat Whynott of Hammonds Plains-Upper Sackville, as it was then, the youngest ever to be elected at the age of 24. We also have my dear friend Tammy Martin, former MLA for Cape Breton Centre, as it was then. (Applause) As everyone in this House who has come up against Tammy would know, she's a staunch health care advocate and an advocate for labour, and you don't want to mess with her.

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. We hope you enjoy your time here watching.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

ROACH, REV. DUNCAN: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

KENDRA COOMBES « » : On April 9^th, my community lost Reverend Duncan Roach, the long-serving minister of Calvin United Church in New Waterford. He was truly a pillar of our community, a true gentleman, kind, good-natured, and loved his community, and we loved him.

[Page 1710]

When he became the minister of Calvin United in 1970, he wasted no time enmeshing himself in the fabric of our community, becoming involved in many community organizations and causes too long to mention. When Reverend Duncan and I would speak, he would thoughtfully comment on the issues facing our community or a topic of debate in the Legislature.

Our hearts go out to his family, his friends, and all who loved him. Rest easy, Reverend Duncan Roach; you have earned that rest.

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

CUMB. REG. PAIN CLINIC: PATIENTS - RECOG.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I rise today to recognize the thousands of patients of the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre pain clinic who have spoken up with courage and determination in the face of uncertainty.

For 17 years, the pain clinic has provided essential care to over 3,500 patients from Cumberland County and across the Maritime region. Chronic and acute pain directly diminish quality of life, and for these patients, the clinic has been a source of hope, relief, and dignity. Yet today, patients remain in limbo. They face debilitating pain, and now the anguish of not knowing whether their treatment will continue is too much. They have raised their voices, signed petitions, and shared their stories because they know how vital this clinic is. Their courage in speaking up deserves to be recognized in this House.

Earlier, I tabled a petition. I gave the wrong number. I was a little dyslexic. I said 287; it's actually 827 signatures. I implore the minister to listen to the patients.

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

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

BARBARA ADAMS « » : I'd like to draw everybody's attention to the East Gallery where we have two staunch PC Party members: Rhonda Vickers from Eastern Passage and Dr. Lisa Bonang from the Eastern Shore.

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House of the People. We hope you enjoy your time here.

The honourable member for Eastern Passage.

[Page 1711]

SHEARWATER FLYER TRAIL ASSOC.: COMM. SERVE - THANKS

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : I rise today to recognize the Shearwater Flyer Trail Association for their dedicated efforts and strong community spirit. The members include; Bryan Henry, Cindi James, Joe Arnold, Lesa Roche, Lisa Froese, Robert Crowley, Ryan Kemp, Kenny Wells, Andrew Huxley, Donald Marks, and me.

Although small in number, the mighty association has proven to be a powerful force in stepping up to soon take over the management of the Shearwater Flyer Trail Association from the Marine Riders Trails Association.

The commitment of this small group is evident through their successful organization of trail cleanups, regular maintenance and helping to ensure that the trail remains safe, functional and enjoyable for all community members.

The community benefits from a well-kept and accessible trail system that supports outdoor recreation in our community.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in recognizing the Shearwater Flyer Trail Association members whose dedication is a testament to what can be achieved when a small group of community members come together with purpose and with pride. We are truly fortunate to have such a passionate group of volunteers in our community.

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

JEWISH COMMUNITY: ROSH HASHANAH - CONGRATS.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Speaker, Rosh Hashanah began last night for our Nova Scotian Jewish community. It's a time of reflection of the past year and the hope for the new year. This holiday is the first Days of Awe, the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

I wish all celebrating Shana Tova may your homes be filled with the sweetness of honey and the warmth of community this Rosh Hashanah.

At the same time I would like to ask all members to reconnect to ending antisemitism in Nova Scotia. We all have a role to play.

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

MOTHER/UNCLE BILL: BIRTHDAY WISHES

HON. TORY RUSHTON « » : Speaker, as a youth I can still recall the voice in my head, "skate you red-headed" or "run, you red-headed" and my mother could be very colourful so I won't repeat what she said afterwards. Believe it or not, I had hair and it was red.

[Page 1712]

Today, on September 23^rd, I do want to recognize my mother. My family and I would like to wish her a happy birthday. She is a great part of the reason why I am standing here today and being able to be blessed as the representative for Cumberland South. Also, on her 7^th birthday, she was blessed with a gift in the form of a baby brother. It is Uncle Bill's birthday as well today. He is also a big part of my reason for being here, my reason for being an electrician in the trades before I was elected to politics.

A special happy cake day to Mom and Uncle Bill.

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

DAL UNIV.: DFA DEAL RATIFICATION - RECOG.

PAUL WOZNEY « » : As we commence this sitting of the Legislature, the students and faculty of Dalhousie University commence a full slate of fall semester courses today. After the Dalhousie Faculty Association was locked out by the school's board of governors, the union spent weeks urging them to come back to the table and negotiate in good faith.

It was only after weeks of picketing, rallying, asserting the rights to free and fair bargaining that a deal was struck and ratified by both sides on September 17^th. Through their solidarity faculty realized improvements in wages, working conditions, and parental leave that also benefit other bargaining units.

I was honoured to stand in solidarity with more than 1,000 educators and staff who asserted their value even when their employer wouldn't come to the table.

Speaker, I ask all members to join me in congratulating the DFA on their resolve and in wishing Dal faculty and students a prosperous return to classes for 2025-2026.

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

DAY, ASHLYN/ARULDOSS, UZZIEL: AWARDS - CONGRATS.

RICK BURNS « » : I rise today to acknowledge Petty Officer First Class Ashlyn Day and Petty Officer First Class Uzziel Aruldoss of St. Magaret's Bay branch of the Navy League of Canada for their accomplishments and awards this year.

Petty Officer First Class Ashlyn Day received a national Sea Cadet scholarship as acting coxswain this past year and was accepted at Saint Mary's University where she began her studies in engineering. Petty Officer First Class Uzziel Aruldoss was one of two cadets in Canada awarded the 2025 Beaverbrook Vimy Prize, which permits youth across Canada to tour the battlefields of France and Flanders, in an academic setting.

[Page 1713]

These impressive efforts by our local youth . . .

[2:00 p.m.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. The time allotted for Statements by Members has now elapsed.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM.: COST OF ESSENTIALS - LOWER

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, over the summer we heard from Nova Scotians across this province who are worried about the rising costs of essentials. Since this government was elected, the average family is paying around $400 more per year on their power bills. This government should be helping to lower bills, not standing by as they soar.

Will the Premier support our plan to lower people's bills by 10 percent?

THE PREMIER « » : Our government understands the challenges that people are facing, the stress that people are feeling. We spent our first term fighting against a carbon tax that would have made life more expensive and did make life more expensive. All the while, while we were fighting against that, the NDP was supporting it and encouraging the carbon tax and more pressure on families.

We understand the pressures that families are feeling. We're taking the steps that we can to support families in sustainable, meaningful ways, and we'll continue to do that to support Nova Scotian families.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Thousands of Nova Scotians had their social insurance numbers and other data stolen from Nova Scotia Power this summer, data that the company should not have had and certainly should not have kept. New Democrats are calling for lower barriers to legal recourse against that company so that they can't hold that person information. We want to let people request credit freezes without hurting their credit scores and to change regulations on data retention periods. Will the Premier support our proposal to protect people's private information?

THE PREMIER « » : There is an incredible amount of work happening to protect Nova Scotians from cyber breaches, which we see becoming more and more common, for sure. We've spent a lot of time talking to the financial services industry, talking to the credit protection agencies to make sure that we get to a spot where we can do absolutely everything we can to protect Nova Scotians - of course, that's our motivation - but do that in a way that doesn't create more chaos in the lending industry and have an unintended negative consequence.

[Page 1714]

We're looking at these things. We're talking. We're actively engaged in making sure we do what's possible to support Nova Scotians. We will continue to roll up our sleeves and do the hard work Nova Scotians deserve.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : While the Premier is concerned about lending agencies, we are concerned about Nova Scotians whose SIN numbers are flying in the wind, and this government, so far, has done nothing about it. This is why we are asking this government to protect consumers' information. They can protect consumers' information and their wallets, but they seem to be choosing not to.

A New Democratic government lowered bills before. This government has no excuse not to act now. Nova Scotia Power was privatized by a PC government, which sold it for less than it was worth, with no cost-benefit analysis. More recent interventions by this government have resulted in higher costs for Nova Scotians. This government can choose to put partisan politics aside, protect Nova Scotians' privacy, and lower their bills. Will the Premier take action? Yes or no?

THE PREMIER « » : The member will probably know that there's a bill before the House to protect social insurance numbers. That's really important to our government. We're taking the steps that are necessary. But every time we take steps, the NDP tries to block it.

We put a solution forward: $500 million in lower taxes for Nova Scotians. Guess what? The NDP voted against that. They think that instead, a roughly $150 million one-time saving is more significant than a $500 million saving, year after year. That's NDP math for you. Right here, we're interested in protecting Nova Scotians. We're not interested in fake math or political sound bites. We'll do what we can for that.

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

PREM.: $1.2 BILLION DEFICIT - EXPLAIN

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Yesterday, we learned that the government is projecting the largest deficit in Nova Scotia's history: a staggering $1.2 billion. That's more than $1,000 in extra debt for each and every Nova Scotian - money our children and our grandchildren will have to pay.

[Page 1715]

The government has shown that no plan is in sight to bring the budget under control, and Nova Scotians are rightfully worried. Can Nova Scotians ever expect to see this budget balanced by the government, or is the Premier and the government content with paying for this mismanagement?

THE PREMIER « » : We know we need to grow the economy to really provide the services that Nova Scotians have a right to expect. That's why we're pushing on Wind West. That's why we're pushing on resource development. That's why we'll talk about offshore gas and opportunities to grow the revenue. While we do that, we know what those two Liberals across the way love. They love cutting programs.

When they sat around the Cabinet table, it was cut, cut, cut. We remember that. They cut programs, they fought workers, they fought Nova Scotians. We don't need any more of that. We're investing in Nova Scotia and we'll move this province forward.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : In just five months of this fiscal year, the government has added hundreds of millions to the debt and approved over $1 billion in new spending. Departments continue to overspend year after year, and Nova Scotians will end up footing the bill for generations. After four years of not talking about the economy, the government has only recently started talking about it. The only plan seems to be projects that will take time to grow.

My question to the Premier is: What immediate measures are in place to stop the out-of-control spending to ensure that generations aren't going to paying off this historic deficit?

THE PREMIER « » : We're moving the province forward. We're investing in Nova Scotians. We won't be shy about investing in Nova Scotians. We all remember those Liberal days. I'm sure these two members over there remember them as well. Clearly, they have visions of program reviews dancing in their heads and getting excited about what they can cut.

They cut programs. They underinvested in infrastructure time and time again, year after year. We're fixing the very problems that they created and have the nerve to complain about.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : I remember those years in our government: Six balanced budgets and building programs in infrastructure all over this province. I remember it all very well. Let's talk about the GDP. Last week, the Premier admitted that Nova Scotia has the lowest GDP per capita in North America. What he also didn't mention is that we're still one of the highest taxed provinces, and now we face a crushing deficit because of government mismanagement.

The Premier and the government have been in charge for four years, and those choices have put our province in a very tough spot. Will the government and the Premier admit that some of these choices have actually made life harder for Nova Scotians, and will they finally take responsibility and explain their plans to not only grow the economy, but deal with an historic deficit that generations will pay?

[Page 1716]

THE PREMIER « » : We want to grow the economy. We have a plan to do that. We need to grow the economy for obvious reasons. We will grow the economy of this province, because we're the builders. They're the blockers. We're the builders. We know we need to grow, and that's what we will do. Given the chance again, they will do what they did in the past: Cut, cut, cut. We're not interested in that. We're interested in supporting Nova Scotians, growing this economy, and moving the province forward.

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

PREM.: POWER BILLS - IMPROVE

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Let's talk about math. A $1.2-billion deficit, and yet Nova Scotians are spending 30 percent more on their power bills than the average Canadian. People cannot afford another rate hike - since this government was elected, $400 more per year. With the eight percent increase that is coming, they will be spending approximately $530 more per year. Nova Scotians cannot continue to absorb higher and higher costs. This government is doing nothing about it.

I will ask the Premier again: Will you lower people's costs by 10 percent?

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

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : I will remind the member that we have done historic tax cuts in this last year of over $1,000 per family for Nova Scotians. Because we saw the challenge of affordability - and I will remind the member they voted against those tax cuts - we are doing tax cuts. We are going to see this economy grow. We are confident in our direction. That is a lot of money in the pockets of Nova Scotians. We are proud of that. We know there is an affordability crisis. We are putting money back in the pockets of Nova Scotians.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : We are worried about Nova Scotians. We are worried about their privacy, we are worried about their data, and we are worried about their credit. We wish this government did too.

New Democrats want to allow people legal recourse against Nova Scotia Power and private companies that hold personal information. We are more concerned about Nova Scotians, less concerned about the credit agencies. We want to let people request free credit freezes without hurting their credit scores. That might be hard for the banks. That is okay. People need their privacy protected. A similar system exists in B.C., and it is better.

[Page 1717]

This government can do more to protect Nova Scotians' privacy and their finances.

I will ask the Premier again: Will he act to give Nova Scotians the protections they need and deserve?

JOHN LOHR « » : Speaker, we are doing everything that we can for Nova Scotians. I will remind the member that we gave a one percent cut in the HST. The last time the NDP were in government, they did a two percent increase in the HST, despite campaigning against that. They reversed it.

We are doing what we can. We will do everything we can to protect Nova Scotians.

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

GAD: FIXED-TERM LEASE LOOPHOLE ABUSE - ADDRESS

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : In May, a government official confirmed what renters across Nova Scotia have known for years: the fixed-term lease loophole is too often being abused by certain landlords. The loophole means rents are rising far beyond the rent cap, and thousands of renters have to move every year when their landlord does not renew their lease.

Why isn't this government doing everything it can to protect renters?

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : As I have mentioned - as my colleague, the Minister of Service Nova Scotia, has mentioned before - there is a time and place for fixed-term leases. We know that some of the best landlords in our province - our community housing sector landlords - actually use them. They have long advocated to continue those practices.

We know that the solution to the housing challenges that we are seeing in this province is more supply. Our government record is strong: a 176 percent increase. We are not stopping.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : The average rent for someone signing a new lease in Halifax increased by 28 percent last year. Nova Scotians are spending more on housing and transportation than people in Toronto. Be that as it may, there is a problem with the fixed-term lease system.

When will this government close the fixed-term lease loophole and protect renters?

COLTON LEBLANC « » : Speaker, I share the member's passion to address affordability. However, it is difficult to accept the criticism from the member opposite - a member who voted against an historic budget to bring $500 million of tax cuts to Nova Scotia.

[Page 1718]

[2:15 p.m.]

Again, we know that the solution to addressing the housing challenges in the province is building more housing across Nova Scotia. In the last three months alone, we announced 20,000 units from Yarmouth to Cape Breton. (Applause) Which of those units does the member not support?

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

FTB: N.S. TAXPAYER FUNDS - BUDGET CONCERNS

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, this government makes a mockery of how it spends and reports Nova Scotians' money. Yesterday we heard about another $1.6 billion spent outside of an annual budget that this Legislature approved. That is a massive amount of Nova Scotians' hard-earned money; it is not pocket change. Why should Nova Scotians trust this government with their money when they have never stuck to the budget?

HON. JOHN LOHR « » : Nova Scotia can trust our government, I assure you, and we are working very hard to meet the needs of Nova Scotians. We will continue to do reporting to the Legislature in the same way that it has been done by several previous governments - by the NDP government when it was in power who established this pattern. We report to the Legislature, and we are very transparent with our additional appropriations which, I believe, is what the member asked about. We are very proud of that and we will continue to do that.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, this government does not have a record of giving clear information to Nova Scotians about how it spends their money. That is billions of dollars of government spending without transparent competitions for contracts, without clear oversight, and without a focus on results, and they are spending more than ever. Now we are facing a $1 billion deficit for this fiscal year, which is barely half over. Why won't this government come clean with Nova Scotians about their excessive spending?

THE SPEAKER « » : Order. I ask that the honourable member - you know, you can't say certain words, and so that is insinuating that they're hiding. I ask you to retract that and maybe find a different little phrase for it - the "come clean."

LISA LACHANCE « » : Just to clarify, Speaker, I wonder about giving clear information to Nova Scotians. Is that . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Clear information to Nova Scotians, that's right. You retract those words and then . . .

[Page 1719]

LISA LACHANCE « » : This government isn't giving Nova Scotians the information that they need so their money is being well spent.

JOHN LOHR « » : We are working hard as a government to meet the needs of Nova Scotians and that's the reality. We are building schools, hospitals, housing across Nova Scotia. If the member has an issue with what we are doing, I ask her to tell us: Which program should we not have done? Which projects should we not have done? We are proud of our record and we will continue to work hard.

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

PREM.: N.S. POWER RATE INCREASE - ADDRESS

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, since we were in the Legislature last spring, Nova Scotia Power has been busy. Yet again they are back before the Energy Board asking Nova Scotians to foot the bill - this time with rate increases that will take hundreds of dollars a year out of families' pockets. It seems like Groundhog Day. Every time you open the paper there is another ask for more money.

My question to the Premier is: He has shown frustration about these increases, but where was the government all summer when Nova Scotia Power was lining up these filings? Nova Scotians need more than frustration; they need leadership. What action is the Premier prepared to take?

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Speaker, time and time again, Nova Scotia Power has shown Nova Scotians how out of touch they are with them. After overseeing one of the largest data breaches in our province's history, looking for the raising of rates is not what the utilities should be doing. They should be looking to build trust back with Nova Scotians.

Nova Scotians know that we have their best interests at heart and we will continue to do what we can to make sure that we hold Nova Scotia Power accountable.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : The last time the government took action against Nova Scotia Power, they made things worse, pushing costs down the line and on to Nova Scotians' bills anyway. I looked back at the PC platform from the last election and it clearly promised to cap power rate increases at the average Canadian rate, and I will table that.

Here's the problem - across Canada we are seeing increases as high as 9.7 percent in New Brunswick. The government and the Premier publicly expressed their frustration over a 4 percent increase in Nova Scotia. Will the Premier admit that this approach that he has laid out in the platform could make things worse for Nova Scotians?

[Page 1720]

TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Over the last four years, we've taken a number of extraordinary initiatives to ensure that power rates are kept as low as they can be. I think of the $500-million loan guarantee we helped negotiate that kept rates from being increased by 19 percent. I think of the $117 million investment to buy the fuel adjustment mechanism that prevented a 7 percent increase in power rates.

It's important that Nova Scotians know and get the facts straight - we have been working very hard for them and protecting them. We will continue to do that.

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

GAD: PUBLIC HOUSING WAIT-LIST - IMPROVE

SUZY HANSEN « » : The public housing wait-list has exploded under this government's watch. More than 8,000 Nova Scotians are waiting. More than 1,000 of them were added just in the last eight months. Families, seniors, and young people are being left behind while rents skyrocket.

My question is to the minister responsible for housing is: Why is this government leaving families with no options instead of protecting renters who can't afford their homes?

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : I'll remind the House that we are making a generational investment in the largest number of new public housing units, right across the province. It's taking a bit of time, but we want to make sure we're getting it right. Our commitment to Nova Scotians still stands strong.

That said, we know that there's a wait-list. I'm not shying away from the wait-list. It's important to understand that over 600 people on the wait-list have been offered a place in public housing but have turned it down. We know that we need to manage the existing portfolio of the over 12,000 public housing units that we have but also look at ways to address over housing and look at rent geared to income.

SUZY HANSEN « » : Saying numbers about housing starts doesn't make houses available for folks. This wait-list continues to grow. Almost half of the people stuck on the public housing wait-list are seniors. Many are on fixed income. They simply can't keep up with the huge rent hikes this government continues to allow. After a lifetime of hard work, Nova Scotians deserve to be able to retire with dignity and not to be left wondering how they will afford their homes.

Will this government close the fixed-term lease loophole and bring in real rent control to protect seniors from being forced out of their homes?

COLTON LEBLANC « » : It's important to note that about 20 percent of the folks on the wait-list are receiving a rent supplement. We're supporting Nova Scotians while we look to get them into public housing.

[Page 1721]

I mentioned briefly rent geared to income. It has come to my attention that there are folks making over $100,000 who are living in public housing. I don't think that's right. We have folks who are in dire need of public housing in this province. We're working hard to address the wait-list. I'm asking the member, do they agree that people living in public housing should be making over $100,000? I say no.

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

DHW: YARMOUTH ER WAIT TIMES - IMPROVE

ROD WILSON « » : Speaker, on May 18^th I had the privilege to work in the ER in beautiful Yarmouth. On that day, the wait time was 16 hours - not the four hours reported on the app. Many people left without being seen.

In 2024, over 54,000 Nova Scotians left emergency rooms without receiving care. That's almost one in ten people leaving.

My question to the minister is: Does the minister believe that Nova Scotians who are put in a position to leave emerg without care meet any acceptable standard of care in our province?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON » : We want people to stay and get care at the emergency room when that's the appropriate place for them to get care. We've enhanced the support available in emergency rooms. Sometimes while people wait, their care actually has begun in the waiting room with waiting-room care providers. People can have diagnostic testing done. They can have their vitals checked. They can have a number of different things done that allow them to expedite their care once they get in to see the physicians. We have physicians' assistants, we have nurse practitioners.

There has been a great deal of investment. We have virtual urgent care, virtual emergency care in order to support people.

We do see a decrease in the number of people who are seeking low-acuity care in the emergency departments. Our triage scores fours and fives are coming down, which is a testament to the work happening in the community.

ROD WILSON « » : Most of us who work in emerg know the number of patients leaving Nova Scotia ERs without receiving care is increasing across the province. The major reasons for this are long wait times and overcrowding. Often, they return days later much sicker and requiring admission to hospital. I've seen this so many times.

[Page 1722]

After five years of promising to fix health care, when should Nova Scotians expect to receive care when they need it and where they need it?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : The Premier and I just left the health summit this morning prior to coming into the House today. We were encouraged by what we heard from a prominent emergency room physician in the province who tells us to keep going, the things we are doing are making a difference.

This is not only an issue for Nova Scotia - it's across the country. We are leading in almost every front, in terms of our health care. We know there are people who leave. We don't want that either, nor do the clinicians. We continue to work with clinicians to understand how best to support them.

The work of the Minister of Seniors and Long-term Care is having a very positive impact in terms of what's happening in the emergency room because this is about access and flow. We'll continue to work and continue to invest.

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

DOA.: DROUGHT CONDITIONS - ADDRESS

KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : Yesterday we saw that over half of the government departments are overspending in their budget. The only place that the government seems to be tightening their belt is in the Department of Agriculture.

Farmers are doing everything they can to keep their operations going in this current drought. I'm wondering why this government isn't stepping up to do their part in this emergency.

HON. GREG MORROW: We know that the prolonged drought is having a tremendous impact on our farmers across the province. I am certainly hearing that on my visits to farms myself, through industry associations. My colleagues in rural parts across Nova Scotia are telling the same thing.

We've really taken a coordinated approach to support farmers. Our staff rep provincial tables, emergency tables, to help with water access. Our ag reps are working one-on-one with farmers to find solutions through our current suite of business risk management programs. We're collaborating with the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture to promote safe harvesting during the wildfire season. Our teams are working with farmers to file insurance claims right now. That's more money in their pockets, faster.

We also increased the budget for the on-farm water management system. I'm happy to tell you more in a couple of seconds.

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KRISTA GALLAGHER « » : The Lunenburg Farmer's Market recently took to social media to share what they were hearing. One Christmas tree grower told them that they're expecting to lose all of this year's Christmas tree seedings that were planted back in April and about half of last year's.

What does the minister have to say to farmers who will be impacted by this summer's drought for decades?

GREG MORROW: I would agree that the full impact of this drought season isn't going to be known in the immediate term. We are working with the Federation of Agriculture to organize outreach sessions after the fall harvest season, to gauge what impact the drought has had on them, to have a better idea.

The question about the Department of Agriculture tightening their belt, Speaker. Three consecutive budgets - 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025-26 included increases to the Department of Agriculture budget. Speaker, each time the NDP voted against that.

[2:30 p.m.]

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

DHW: CUMB. REG. PAIN CLINIC: LACK OF ACCESS - ADDRESS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Chronic pain and acute pain can be debilitating for people. That is why the pain clinic at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre has been so important. It's been in operation for the last 17 years. A contract for the pain clinic was grandfathered in when the Cumberland Health Authority became the Nova Scotia Health Authority. I'll table the legislation that clearly states contracts are to be honoured from the Cumberland Health Authority to the Nova Scotia Health Authority.

Despite this, over 3,500 patients that have been served by the pain clinic no longer have access to interventional pain treatments that allowed them to have some quality of life. Patients have been told that appointments will not be given, and the Nova Scotia Health Authority does not seem to be able to work with physicians to find solutions.

My question to the minister is . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order.

The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness.

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : We are confident that as the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the physicians involved in the pain clinic work together, there will be a resolution found. It really is about a deep understanding about the services that are provided in that clinic, and where the best location for those is. Some may be offsite; some may be required to be offered in hospital.

[Page 1724]

Those conversations continue. I expect both the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the physicians to work in collaboration with one another in order to find a solution for the patients who require those services.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : I wrote to the Minister of Health and Wellness on August 11, 2025, which was 43 days ago, and I'll table that letter. I asked for help with this clinic on behalf of the patients that have contacted me every day. These people are residents from across Cumberland County, but also all of Nova Scotia. Patients have relied on this important healthcare service for the last 17 years.

Personally, I know the details: the Nova Scotia Health Authority is trying to move the clinic, taking away administrative staff, trying to move it out of the perioperative area and into what was a closet, away from nursing care and supports in the case of adverse events that physicians need. Will the minister make a commitment today to meet with these two physicians that are providing this essential care?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Over the course of the situation that's unfolded, the member from Cumberland South and I have worked really hard. We've been in touch with Nova Scotia Health Authority leadership to make sure that the concerns of the folks in that area are heard. He's been a good advocate for the folks living up there and I appreciate his support.

We will definitely continue to work with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, and we do expect those physicians in the Nova Scotia Health Authority to work together in order to find a reasonable solution. Some things may be offered offsite, but the things that require keeping patients safe will happen onsite. Those conversations will continue until we find a resolution.

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

GAD: CBRM RENT INCREASES - IMPROVE

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Housing is the biggest expense and often the biggest stressor for Cape Bretoners. Under this government, rent in the CBRM has gone up more than $2,500 per year and the public housing waitlist has ballooned by close to 40 percent. Why is the Minister responsible for Housing letting rents spiral out of control in the CBRM?

HON. COLTON LEBLANC « » : Part of our government's work is to build more housing across Nova Scotia, create the conditions to build more housing across Nova Scotia. If only that work would have started under the previous Liberal government, perhaps even the NDP government; this is legacy infrastructure that has been long neglected.

[Page 1725]

I'll remind the member opposite, the first and the largest investment in over 30 years, included public housing units in Cape Breton, 22 of which are under way in Glace Bay. We are supporting the North Sydney Food Bank with housing there. We're also supporting infrastructure and housing being built in Port Hawkesbury, including projects for health care.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : That's a cold comfort to Cape Bretoners who have to get on a list to get on a list for housing if they're homeless. In CBRM's housing needs assessment, 92 percent of respondents said that they felt like they would not be able to find a suitable alternative if their housing situation changed unexpectedly. I'll table that.

Instead of helping people stay in their homes, this government has left the fixed-term lease loophole wide open and actually sped up evictions.

When will this government realize that renters need protection, not punishment?

COLTON LEBLANC « » : It's important to note that the public housing wait-list isn't just a running wait-list; we actually prioritize folks who are in critical need of housing, including folks experiencing homelessness, including survivors of gender-based violence, including folks who need to be in close proximity of health care.

The efficiencies and program improvements that we've brought to the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency: we've reduced the wait times; we're shaving off time. We're here to support Nova Scotians. We'll continue to do so. We know that there's more work to be done; we're not going to shy away from it.

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

DOE: POWER BILL INCREASES - IMPROVE

LINA HAMID « » : This government is letting Nova Scotians struggle under the weight of ballooning power bills. Advocate Chris Benjamin with the Ecology Action Centre said that this government has done nothing about this in five years. He said that this government plays politics and uses Nova Scotia Power as their boogeyman.

Does the Minister of Energy know that the boogeyman isn't real, but massive power bills are, and they are crushing Nova Scotians?

HON. TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : We know that affordability and cost of living are top of mind for Nova Scotians, and they are top of mind for our government as well. It's not just in the last budget, where we had a historic $500-million investment in tax relief, but also before that. Let's talk about reducing child care costs by 50 percent. Let's talk about indexing income assistance. Let's talk about our opportunities with energy efficiency so that we can support Nova Scotians - that's right, Speaker - school lunches.

[Page 1726]

Affordability is top of mind for this government, and we'll do what we can to support Nova Scotians.

LINA HAMID « » : My concerns are regarding the rates of Nova Scotia Power. Under the current government, more families are struggling to keep up with their power bills: 43 percent of Nova Scotian households have power bills that are higher than they can afford, one of the highest rates in Canada. People are already falling behind, and now, Nova Scotia Power is proposing another rate hike.

As more Nova Scotian families struggle to keep the heat on this winter, will this government finally take action and lower power bills?

TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : I think it's important to get the facts straight here. I've mentioned a couple of comments before: a $117-million investment to purchase a fuel adjustment mechanism to prevent a 7 percent increase in power rates and a $500-million loan guarantee that we helped negotiate to keep power rates from going up by 19 percent. We will do what we can to support Nova Scotians in affordability and cost-of-living crisis, and as we say, we always do what we can.

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

LSI: LONG-TERM CARE STAFF WAGES - FUND

PAUL WOZNEY « » : My question is for the Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration. Long-term care and home-support workers provide essential care to seniors in our province. Day in and day out, these folks keep our loved ones safe and supported, but their wages are so low that they can barely afford the essentials to take care of themselves.

My question is: When will this government deliver fair, competitive compensation to long-term and home-support workers?

THE SPEAKER « » : There are two of you jumping up here. Which one of you wants to stand? (Interruption) What fun we're having.

The honourable Minister Seniors and Long-term Care.

HON. BARBARA ADAMS « » : It's clear that there are a lot of ministers in this House who care about our health care, long-term care, and home care workers.

[Page 1727]

What I want Nova Scotians to know is that this Premier, three-and-a-half years ago, made a dedicated Department of Seniors and Long-term Care to tell Nova Scotians that seniors were our top priority and that he was going to have a dedicated minister solely looking after that responsibility. We were the ones who brought in free CCA tuition for 2,700 CCAs across the province of Nova Scotia. We brought in a 23 percent pay raise for those same CCAs - the first thing we did.

At the same time as the . . .

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

PAUL WOZNEY « » : Speaker, this government prides itself on announcements about new long-term care beds, but the fact is that beds only deliver care to our seniors when facilities can find and retain staff to provide care in those facilities.

While it crows about opening new beds, how does this government square delivery of best-in-world care to Nova Scotia seniors while remunerating the staff delivering care to those seniors with worst-in-Canada wages, benefits, and working conditions?

BARBARA ADAMS « » : As a health care professional for 41 years, facts matter, so let's correct the record there. The injury rate in long-term care dropped by 12 percent last year, which is the lowest in history. The injury rate in long-term care has never gone down, except under this government. It is the safest place it's ever been.

The staffing rate in long-term care is the highest in the country at 4.1. The majority of our nursing homes are functioning at that highest staffing level. We increased nursing staffing by 33 percent under our government. We also have free tuition for CCAs to become LPNs, as well.

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

DOE: POWER GRID CONCERNS - IMPROVE

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : My question is for the Minister of Energy. Over 10,000 families and businesses in Cape Breton were left without power for over 24 hours in the summer - not during an ice storm or a hurricane but in the middle of a sunny summer's day. Across the province, Nova Scotians have seen repeated outages increasing. This is not normal. Other provinces don't experience the same thing. If the power grid can't even be relied on in the summer, how can we trust it in the winter?

My question is: Why has the minister's office failed to hold Nova Scotia Power accountable for years of missed reliability standards?

HON. TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Absolutely, what Nova Scotians are looking for is affordable and reliable power. That is something that, for a number of years, Nova Scotia Power has not been able to do. We are continuing to hold them accountable. We will continue to push that envelope to make sure that they're investing in transmission and vegetation management. That's an important part of making sure that Nova Scotians have the lights on when they need them.

[Page 1728]

IAIN RANKIN « » : Respectfully, Nova Scotia Power has missed these targets three years in a row, yet the government continues to let them raise rates while communities sit in the dark. This is grocery stores in rural communities. This is restaurants that couldn't open during the busiest seasons and busiest weekends, as well.

There is lots of talk about more oversight and reliability plans, but outages are getting more frequent by the day. At what point will the government stop acting like Nova Scotia Power's PR team and start acting like a minister responsible for protecting ratepayers? (Laughter)

THE SPEAKER « » : I love it when we're all laughing.

The honourable Minister of Energy.

TREVOR BOUDREAU « » : Speaker, let's be clear: Our government is very focused on making sure Nova Scotians have the reliable and affordable power that they deserve.

I do know that Nova Scotia Power has been fined recently for not meeting their standards. That's the regulator's role. We will continue to engage to make sure that Nova Scotians have that power that they need when they need it.

[2:45 p.m.]

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

ACSW: TRANSITION & GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE SHELTERS - HELP

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : The transition houses that help women and survivors experiencing gender-based violence are not getting enough support from this government. Last year they received more than 5,200 calls from people desperately in need of help and they can't keep up. Frontline workers tell us that the funding this government is providing isn't stable, predictable, or adequate to address the crisis.

How long will women have to wait for safety and security in Nova Scotia?

HON. LEAH MARTIN « » : Thank you to the member opposite for the question. I've been really honoured to be able to travel the province from one end to the other and visit the transition centres and the women's shelters. I've heard from frontline service providers and from everyday folks and from survivors.

[Page 1729]

What I do hear is that while there is more work to be done, the historic investment that we've made – the biggest one in over 20 years - has been truly well received, so folks are bought into the process. We all know we are climbing this mountain. We know there is more work to be done, and we are happy to do that work.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Of course the money that has been invested already is welcome because the money was at historic low levels. The fact is that if this government means to help survivors of gender-based violence, they need to fund a response at an epidemic level.

By 2028 the federal Liberal government will cut funding to programs to address gender-based violence by 80 per cent. We're already living with an epidemic of gender-based violence. It's vulnerable Nova Scotians who will pay dearly for these cuts.

Does the minister have a plan to make up for this funding decrease by the Liberal government?

LEAH MARTIN « » : Thank you to the member opposite for the question. I do think it's more than just a money problem that you can just throw money at and it will just solve itself.

This government has responded with $102 million across government. There is more than just money as part of the solution. It comes in the form of women's equity. I'm seeing more women at the leadership table, more entrepreneurs, and more CEOs. It comes in ways from the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration for five days of paid leave.

It comes in so many facets so I recommend that we don't shrink the problem by just suggesting that it's simply money and look at the broad, across-government approach that we are employing.

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

ECC: ENVIRON. RACISM REPORT - ADDRESS

SUZY HANSEN « » : The Minister of Environment and Climate Change says he's taking environmental racism very seriously, but more than a year after the environmental racism report was finished he still hasn't even read it.

People across the province have been impacted by environmental racism. It hurts our health, our communities and our properties. They deserve to know what's in this report.

Speaker, why is this government not being transparent with Nova Scotians about what they're doing to address environmental racism? I'd like the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to answer that question.

[Page 1730]

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. This is a very important topic to Nova Scotians. As minister I am aware of the content of the advice that was given to the government.

We have an upcoming meeting with the panel. In the summer, the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism, the Department of Environment and Climate Change, sent a letter, an invitation, to those who participated on the panel to meet with us so we could get their opinion on what the best path forward is. The ministers and I look forward to that future meeting this fall.

SUZY HANSEN « » : You could start by reading the report and stop having meetings after meetings and traumatizing communities over and over again. I think the communities deserve an answer and they need to have that answer here, while we're in the Legislature asking you the questions.

Please answer our communities about why this report is not being released and why we're not addressing environmental racism.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE: Speaker, this concludes Government Business for today. I move that the House now rise to meet again on September 24^th between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Following the daily routine and Question Period, there will be Opposition Business and following that will be Second Reading of Bills.

I ask that you recognize the honourable House Leader of the Liberal Party to call Opposition Business for tomorrow.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable House Leader of the Liberal Party.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Speaker, tomorrow we will be calling Bill No. 129, Bill No. 132, and Bill No. 133.

I will turn it back over to the Government House Leader.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House rise to meet again on Wednesday, September 24^th between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The House stands adjourned.

[The House rose at 2:51 p.m.]

FILED PETITIONS

(Tabled Sept. 23, 2025)

Petition to the House of Assembly of Nova Scotia: Sept. 23, 2025 - Re Basic Income Guarantee

By: Nick Hilton

Therefore we, the undersigned residents of the Province of Nova Scotia, ask that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly immediately form an all-party committee to study and make recommendations on how to implement a basic income guarantee (BIG) in the province of Nova Scotia that reflects the principles laid out by Basic Income Nova Scotia, Coalition Canada Basic Income-revenu de base, and the Basic Income Canada Network.

[Page 1731]