[Page 4956]

HALIFAX, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2026

Sixty-fifth General Assembly

First Session

1:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Danielle Barkhouse

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Tom Taggart, Julie Vanexan

THE SPEAKER (Danielle Barkhouse): Please rise for the playing of "O Canada."

[The national anthem was played.]

THE SPEAKER » : Order. I recognize the honourable Premier, who will present to the House the newly elected member for Chéticamp-Margarees-Pleasant Bay.

[The Premier leads Claude Bourgeois into the Legislature.] (Standing Ovation)

HON. TIM HOUSTON (The Premier) « » : Speaker, I present to you Mr. Claude Bourgeois, elected member for the electoral district of Chéticamp-Margarees-Pleasant Bay. He has taken the oath, signed the rolls, and now claims his right to take his seat in this Chamber.

THE SPEAKER « » : Let the honourable member take his seat. (Applause)

We'll now start the Daily Routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, before I table the petition, may I have permission to make an introduction?

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : There are a number of people who are in the crowd today who have spent a tremendous amount of work working on one of the largest petitions that will be tabled in the history of this province, around the ban on uranium mining and exploration. I want to introduce Sarah Trask, one of the organizers of Concerned Citizens of Nova Scotia. I ask them to please stand as I say their names: Nancy

[Page 4957]

Covington and Tynette Deveaux from the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment; and Karen McKendry and Chad Simmons from the Ecology Action Centre. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. We hope you enjoy your time here.

The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, as I said, this represents 80 percent of postal codes across Nova Scotia and over 10,000 signatures. It has been presented three times now in the House. I beg leave to table a petition from residents of Nova Scotia, the operative clause of which reads as follows:

"We, the undersigned residents of Nova Scotia, call upon the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to act in the interest of public health, environmental integrity, and community safety by:

1.      Immediately halting the current Request for Proposals open for uranium exploration and extraction in Nova Scotia;

2.      Reinstating the moratorium on uranium exploration and extraction without delay;

3.      Instituting a permanent legislative ban on uranium exploration and extraction to ensure long-term protection of Nova Scotians, our watersheds, and our environment from the significant and well-documented risks associated with uranium-related industrial activities."

As I've said, there are approximately 1,061 signatures on the petition, and I have affixed my signature to the petition, as required by Rule 63(5) of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, permission to have someone recognized in the gallery, please? An introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Yes, please do.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Today in the gallery is a woman who has worked in my office this summer - and I was proud to have her there - Raven Googoo, and her father, Darren Googoo. Please give her warm applause. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome. Don't be shy.

[Page 4958]

The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Today, the Opposition is tabling 2,052 signatures on the petition on the uranium ban, calling for the reinstatement of the ban on uranium. Since October 2025, the total number signed has now reached 10,652 signatures.

Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition, the operative clause of which reads as follows:

"We, the undersigned resigned residents of Nova Scotia, call upon the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to act in the interest of public health, environmental integrity, and community safety by:

1.      Immediately halting the current Request for Proposals open for uranium exploration and extraction in Nova Scotia;

2.      Reinstating the moratorium on uranium exploration and extraction without delay;

3.      Instituting a permanent legislative ban on uranium exploration and extraction to ensure long-term protection of Nova Scotians, our watersheds, and our environment from the significant and well-documented risks associated with uranium-related industrial activities."

Speaker, there are 1,026 signatures on the petition, and I have proudly affixed my own, as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition, which reads as follows:

"Whereas workers need and deserve fair wages and safe working conditions and they have the right to bargain for them, and,

"Whereas the use of scab labour for long strikes and lockouts and disincentivizes employers from reaching a fair deal with workers, and promotes violence,

"Therefore, we the undersigned call on the Nova Scotia Legislature to pass the NSNDP's Bill 49, which bans the use of scab labour in Nova Scotia."

The 98 signatures were collected yesterday in Kentville at the Annapolis Valley Labour Council's picnic. I have proudly affixed mine, as well, as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

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SUSAN LEBLANC « » : The high cost of rent continues to be an issue in my community of Dartmouth North, so I am going to table two petitions, one after the other, to do with that. The first one reads as follows:

"We the undersigned call on the Nova Scotia Legislature to pass legislation to build affordable housing and implement permanent rent control that is tied to the CPI and that is applied to a housing unit, not a tenant."

For this petition, I've got 28 signatures, and I have affixed my own, as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : As promised, here's my second petition. This one reads as follows:

"Therefore, we, the undersigned, call on the Government of Nova Scotia to implement permanent legislated rent control in Nova Scotia."

[1:15 p.m.]

On this one there are 21 signatures, and I have affixed my own as per the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.

LISA LACHANCE « » : Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition which reads:

"Whereas the government announced that they are about to start negotiating with companies interested in exploratory onshore drilling for natural gas; and

"Whereas the 2014 moratorium on hydraulic fracking in Nova Scotia was the result of a detailed public engagement with evidence concerning the practice, as well as public opposition to the practice in the province; and

"Whereas these highly informed and publicly informed moratoriums were cancelled in 2025 without any public engagement or scientific studies;

"We the undersigned call on the government of Nova Scotia to reintroduce the moratorium on hydraulic fracking in Nova Scotia in order to protect our communities and environment."

[Page 4960]

There are 22 signatures, and I have affixed mine as required by the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : It is my honour to present our government's fifth annual progress report on sustainable development and prosperity, a report titled Powering the Transition: The Annual Progress Report on the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act and Nova Scotia's Climate Change Action Plan.

THE SPEAKER « » : The report is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 502

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

Be it resolved (a) that in addition to the honourable member for Colchester North and the honourable member for Kings South, the honourable member for Clare be a chair of committees and deputy speaker of the House of Assembly and that the honourable member for Colchester North be the deputy speaker within the meaning of Subsection 14(3) of the House of Assembly Act and within the meaning of the House of Assembly Management Commission Act.

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.

[Page 4961]

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 253 - An Act to Improve Service Efficiency. (Hon. Timothy Halman)

Bill No. 254 - An Act to Establish an Affordable Housing Land Trust. (Claudia Chender)

Bill No. 255 - An Act to Increase Grocery Competition. (Hon. Iain Rankin)

Bill No. 256 - An Act to Amend Chapter 246 of the Revised Statutes, 1989, the Labour Standards Code. (Hon. Nolan Young)

Bill No. 257 - An Act Respecting Residential Addiction Treatment and Rehabilitation Services. (Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin)

Bill No. 258 - An Act to Protect Renters from Unfair Practices. (Susan Leblanc for Claudia Chender)

Bill No. 259 - An Act to Ensure Clear Grocery Pricing. (Hon. Iain Rankin)

Bill No. 260 - An Act to Amend Chapter 27 of the Acts of 2000, the Employment Support and Income Assistance Act, Respecting Equal Support for the Unhoused. (Lina Hamid)

Bill No. 261 - An Act to Establish Country of Origin Labelling Requirements. (Susan Leblanc)

Bill No. 262 - An Act to Help Workers Get Ahead. (Paul Wozney)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

THE SPEAKER « » : We missed a step. First-day jitters.

I'm seeking unanimous consent to revert to Statements by Ministers.

[STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

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THE PREMIER « » : Today, we will be honouring three great Nova Scotians who passed away since the last time we sat. I will ask for a moment of silence to honour them after we pay tribute to all three.

I rise today in the House on a sombre note as we pause our proceedings to acknowledge the loss of a truly great Nova Scotian and a truly great Canadian, Dr. John Hamm, who passed away on July 12^th. His was a life well lived. A Pictou County family physician who served his neighbours with selflessness and distinction for decades, he then found a path into public service - a path that culminated with his election to this Chamber as MLA and then as Nova Scotia's 25^th Premier.

Born and raised in New Glasgow, John Frederick Hamm left his hometown the 1950s to pursue higher learning. He went to the University of King's College and then Dalhousie University, earning science and medical degrees. Then he chose to return to Pictou County to start a medical practice, to raise a family with his wife, Genesta, and to give back to the community that was always his home.

John Hamm was always there to answer the call of his friends and neighbours. That's what led him to Nova Scotia politics in the early 1990s. He saw a Premier - one of my predecessors as a member for Pictou East - the late Donald Cameron, trying to bring about positive change for the community and the province, and Dr. John Hamm wanted to do his part to make a difference, to help others, and to serve. He was not a rabid partisan. He was not a lifelong PC activist. He was a shy country doctor who saw a need and thought he could bring some positive change. The people of Pictou Centre elected him as their MLA, and he became part of a small PC caucus with few members, no money, and not much hope for political success.

You know, not too many people wanted to lead the PC Party back in those days, but Dr. John Hamm saw a need, and he felt he should help - and help he did. Let's consider some of his lasting contributions.

First, the offshore accord - what a signature accomplishment. Today, Nova Scotians continue to drive roads, go to schools, or use hospitals whose funding was made possible because of Premier John Hamm's principled stand. It was a principled stand that the Opposition parties of the day criticized, and for the first four years, the federal government refused to negotiate, but Dr. Hamm stood his ground.

[1:30 p.m.]

Today, as we once again are finding ourselves needing to work across regions and across party lines to get things done for Nova Scotia and Canada in the face of new American tariffs, I tell all of you this - not just me and my government - all leaders in other provinces across the country could all benefit from channelling the spirit of Dr. John Hamm.

Speaker, if you want to look to see what I consider the biggest legacy of Dr. John Hamm, I suggest any of us and all of us make our way into Dartmouth, to the campus of the Nova Scotia Community College. The new and expanded Ivany Campus of our world-class college is what Premier Dr. John Hamm built. You want to see John Hamm's legacy, start there. Dr. Hamm insisted that, in expanding and modernizing the Nova Scotia Community College, every campus in this province - not just in Halifax or Dartmouth - grew so that every Nova Scotian, regardless of where they lived, had the opportunity to pursue a post-secondary education. What an example for those of us who follow in his footsteps; what a legacy to leave.

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John Hamm was a premier for all Nova Scotians. He was the Premier who passed the French-language Services Act. He was the Premier who created the Order of Nova Scotia. He was the Premier who established the Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs. He was the Premier who legalized equal marriage. He was the Premier who appointed his political rival, former Liberal Leader Danny Graham, to be Nova Scotia's chief negotiator on Indigenous rights.

When we think about what it means to be a Progressive Conservative, John Hamm epitomizes those values. It was under John Hamm's Progressive Conservative government that our province finally took environmental leadership to clean up Halifax Harbour and the Sydney Tar Ponds. It was under John Hamm's government that Nova Scotia launched Read to Me, gifting free books to the family of every newborn.

Dr. Hamm was a man of enormous personal decency. After his passing, we set up a book of condolences for Dr. Hamm here at Province House. I know many of us, including the members sitting opposite - from the Opposition benches - took the time to sign. I want to say thank you to everyone who did because, while he never backed down from a political fight in defence of his principles, one thing that John Hamm always believed in is that love for country, faith in our province, and care for our communities - things like this know no party labels.

In a time where so much of politics and the politics we see online or in America and elsewhere is so personal, so nasty, so trivial, and so cheap, there is a lot to be said of a leader who can extend and earn that kind of respect from their rivals. Premier, MLA, doctor, husband, father, grandfather, neighbour, colleague, role model, friend - proud to be Nova Scotian, proud to be Canadian. He woke up every day trying to make this place - our place - a better place, and he succeeded.

Today, our home - our province - is a better place because Dr. John Hamm made the decision to serve. On behalf of our government, our caucus, and our PC Party, I want to extend my dearest condolences to John Hamm's wife, Genesta, his children, and his grandchildren. Thank you, Dr. John Hamm.

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

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : I'm pleased to have the opportunity to rise today to recognize the life and service of Dr. John Hamm, former Premier of Nova Scotia, who passed away in July at the age of 88.

[Page 4964]

Before he ever entered public life, Dr. Hamm dedicated more than three decades to caring for patients as a family physician in Pictou County. He delivered babies, treated illnesses, comforted families through tough times, and earned the trust of generations of Nova Scotians. For many Pictou County folks, he was simply their doctor - a steady and compassionate presence in their lives. That commitment to service eventually led him into politics, where he brought that same sense of duty and practicality to public office.

Elected to represent Pictou Centre in 1993, he became the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party and served as Nova Scotia's 25^th Premier from 1999 to 2006. While members of this House may hold differing views about decisions made by governments of the day, there is broad agreement that Dr. Hamm approached public service with integrity, humility, and a genuine desire to improve the province he loved.

He was known for bringing a physician's perspective to public policy, and his approach was rooted in listening, problem-solving, and caring for people. He was well-known for taking the high road and for working in a considerate and collaborative way across party lines. Dr. Hamm's life reminds us that public service takes many forms. Whether in a clinic, a community meeting, or the Premier's Office, he answered a call to serve others. Nova Scotia is stronger for that service.

On behalf of the Nova Scotia New Democratic Party, I extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Genesta, his family, friends, former colleagues - some of whom are here today - and the many Nova Scotians whose lives he touched as both a physician and a premier. May he rest in peace.

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

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : I am pleased to join my colleagues in recognizing the life and legacy of former Premier Dr. John Hamm, who passed away this summer. Dr. Hamm dedicated his life to serving Nova Scotians. He first served the community as a family physician, caring for patients and families in Pictou County. He then brought that same sense of service to this House, serving as an MLA and ultimately as the Premier of our province.

Throughout his career, Premier Hamm demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of his fellow Nova Scotians. I didn't know Dr. Hamm personally. I did have the opportunity to meet him once, I believe, in 2019 on a forestry conference, and we had a good conversation. Certainly, my father knew him well, respected him, and met with him personally in his Premier's Office.

I admired his commitment to fiscal responsibility and making decisions that were right, not only for today but for the future of our province - not simply the political demands of the day. I am pleased to see that Premier Hamm is now being recognized posthumously with the Order of Nova Scotia, an honour established under his government 25 years ago to recognize Nova Scotians who have made contributions to our province.

[Page 4965]

I was pleased to write a letter to support his nomination for the award earlier this year, and there is something especially special and meaningful about seeing the Order he helped establish now bestowed upon him. We extend our deepest condolences on behalf of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party to Genesta, their children - John, Jeffrey, and Jennifer - and their five grandchildren.

Premier Hamm leaves behind a legacy of service to our province, and we are grateful for his many contributions.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER « » : It is an honour to rise today to pay tribute to Elmer MacKay, one of Pictou County's finest sons and greatest representatives. Elmer grew up on a small farm in Lorne in Pictou East and carried the values he learned there - hard work and kindness - throughout an impressive and varied life of public service. The respect and affection that Elmer MacKay felt for the people of Pictou County was reciprocated.

He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Central Nova a remarkable six times. He served two Prime Ministers and held a variety of high-profile positions, such as Solicitor General, Minister of National Revenue, and Minister of Public Works. Elmer always put his country first, including his decision to step aside so that Brian Mulroney could run in his seat.

The demanding jobs he took saw him sit at the centre of power in our country. His job took him to many countries and acquainted him with dozens of powerful people, but he never ever forgot the people of Central Nova. Pictou County was his anchor, his strength, and his refuge. Until his death at age 89, Elmer was generous with his time. He was never too busy to talk over a situation, to give his advice - which I received quite a bit of - or for a check-in. He will be missed by many.

On behalf of Nova Scotians, I send my most sincere condolences to Sharon, Peter, the entire MacKay family, and all of those mourning his loss.

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

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of the honourable Elmer MacKay and to extend condolences to family, friends, former colleagues, and the many Nova Scotians who are mourning his passing.

Elmer MacKay was one of Nova Scotia's most respected public servants. Born in Hopewell, Pictou County, he spent more than two decades representing Central Nova in the House of Commons, and dedicated much of his life to serving the people of our province and of our country. He was first elected in 1971, would go on to serve under both Prime Minister Joe Clark and Prime Minister Brian Mulroney in a number of senior Cabinet positions.

[Page 4966]

Throughout his career, he carried the concerns and aspirations of Pictou County to the national stage. When he stepped aside from his own seat to allow newly elected Progressive Conservative Leader Brian Mulroney to enter Parliament, it was a decision that reflected both his commitment to his party and his belief in public service. He later returned to represent Central Nova, a testament to his popularity in his constituency and continued that service for many years.

In the weeks since his passing, many have spoken not only of his accomplishments but about the kind of person he was. He was remembered as a man who never lost sight of his Pictou County roots, and who made himself available to help others. He was also remembered for his generosity, sharp wit, love of debate, and deep pride in his family and community.

Public office can be demanding, but Elmer MacKay seemed to understand that service is ultimately about people. Whether as an MP, a Cabinet Minister, mentor, neighbour, or friend, he left a lasting impression on those whose lives he touched. Today, I join Nova Scotians from across the political spectrum in expressing gratitude for his many years of service and offering sincere condolences to his children, including former federal minister Peter MacKay, his grandchildren, and all those who loved him. May his memory be a blessing.

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

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : Nova Scotia lost another political giant this summer with the passing of the honourable Elmer MacKay. A proud Pictou County man, Elmer represented Central Nova in Ottawa for more than two decades, serving through some of the most important moments in our country's history and holding several senior Cabinet portfolios.

Despite his years on the national stage, Minister MacKay never lost sight of his roots or the people he represented. He was deeply proud of Pictou County and remained committed to helping his community. His legacy of public service lives not only in the communities he served but in his family, including his son, Peter, who followed him into public life.

On behalf of the Liberal Party, I want to extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Sharon, his five children, many grand children, and the Nova Scotians across the province mourning his passage as we remember a remarkable Nova Scotian, a devoted family man, and a true giant of public life.

THE SPEAKER « » : I will state that wasn't allowed. It's the leader of each party who's allowed to do that going forward. (Interruption) It's a rule.

The honourable Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

[Page 4967]

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : This summer, a booming voice that echoed in this Chamber for nearly two decades was silenced. Roland Thornhill passed away on July 16^th at the age of 90. Rollie, as he was known in every community hall in this province, began his long career in public life in 1961, when he was elected as Alderman for Ward 1 in the City of Dartmouth, a position he was re-elected to in 1963 and in 1965.

In 1967, the people of Dartmouth elected Rollie as their mayor. Then in 1974, he was elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature as the MLA for Dartmouth South. Rollie was an MLA for 19 years and served in Cabinet for 13 years. He and Bonnie retired to Baddeck in 1993. The end of his political career did not mean Rollie stopped caring for Nova Scotians. It only meant he supported his community from his home, not the Legislature.

On behalf of all members of the PC caucus, I send my sincere condolences to his wife Bonnie, and sons Jeff and Chris, their families, and to all those whose lives he touched in his decades of long service to Nova Scotia.

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

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : I do rise as the member for Dartmouth South to recognize the life and service of one of my most famous predecessors, Rollie Thornhill, and to extend condolences to his family, friends, former colleagues, and the many Nova Scotians who mourn his passing.

[1:45 p.m.]

When I moved into the house where I currently live, it was only after a contract to buy another house fell through, and that house was Rollie Thornhill's house, which I didn't know at the time. Many remarked that it would have been a little odd (laughs). I wasn't the leader of our party at the time, but I did get to walk through the halls where he once lived and where his children grew up. I can see it out my back window, in fact. I have heard many amazing stories of Rollie's time, service, character, and personality.

He was a larger-than-life figure in Nova Scotian public life. He was born in Newfoundland and Labrador in 1935 and made Nova Scotia his home. He dedicated decades of his life to serving the people of Dartmouth and our province. For people in Dartmouth, they know a real one, I'd say. The fact that he was elected for so long is an enormous testament to the work he did in community. As was said, before entering politics, he served as mayor of Dartmouth. He guided the community through an enormous period of growth and change. He represented Dartmouth South for almost 20 years, served as deputy premier, held a number of Cabinet portfolios, and his influence was, of course, felt well beyond the boundaries of his constituency.

Those who knew him spoke of his quick wit, his booming voice, and his gift for debate, and of course, his strong advocacy. Public service requires a willingness to step forward, to accept responsibility, and to work on behalf of others, and Rollie Thornhill answered that call for many years. I don't think there's anyone in this Chamber who has served as long as he did. Through his service as mayor, MLA, Cabinet minister, and deputy premier, he helped shape the province that we know today. He had the respect and friendship of colleagues from all parties, and today, we join the members of this House in recognizing his contribution, expressing our gratitude for a lifetime of service.

[Page 4968]

I offer my sincere condolences to his wife, Bonnie, his sons, Jeff and Chris, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a blessing. (Applause)

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

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Speaker, I rise today to remember the honourable Rollie Thornhill, a former Cabinet minister and mayor of Dartmouth, who passed away this summer. Rollie had a long and distinguished career in public life, serving Dartmouth and Nova Scotia in a number of important roles and portfolios. His service did not end when he left politics. He continued to give back to our province through countless volunteer roles, including as a founding board member of the Bras d'Or Nature Trust.

I have my own personal experiences with Rollie. I met Rollie when I became a student leader at UCCB, which is now Cape Breton University. I was a student representative on the board, and one of the first board members I met was Rollie. He also taught me the importance of the PC Party, and he tried his best, too. Rollie was a good man. He cared a lot about the community that he represented, and he did tremendous work around the province.

He was laid to rest in beautiful Baddeck, a fitting place for someone who became so connected to Cape Breton and to the natural beauty of our province. I want to send my love and deep condolences to Rollie's family and friends, and all of those who have had the privilege of knowing him.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please rise for a moment of silence.

[A moment of silence was observed.]

THE SPEAKER « » : You may all be seated.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

LINA HAMID « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make a quick introduction unrelated to my member statement, please.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

LINA HAMID « » : I bring to the House today Yasmine Makhlof, who made Youssef a big brother on the 28^th of April. She's keeping us very busy. (Applause)

[Page 4969]

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome back to the House to her.

The honourable member for Fairview-Clayton Park.

ALI, DR. NOUMAN: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

LINA HAMID « » : I rise today to honour the memory and legacy of Dr. Nouman Ali, a dedicated educator, distinguished engineer, and community leader whose passing leaves a profound void in Nova Scotia.

Dr. Ali served as a respected professor at the Department of Civil and Resource Engineering at Dalhousie University, where he shared his vast expertise in transportation engineering and sustainable infrastructure with generations of future engineers.

He was a prominent figure and pillar within the Muslim community, consistently offering his time, wisdom, and leadership to support others.

Dr. Ali was also a passionate cyclist whose bike was a familiar sight at community events, rallies, and gatherings across Halifax. His legacy has rallied the local cycling community to push for urgent calls for improved infrastructure for cyclists and greater driver awareness.

I ask all members of this House to join me in extending our deepest condolences to Dr. Nouman Ali's family, friends, students, and the entire community during this difficult time. His vision, leadership, and legacy will continue to inspire us all.

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

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : I beg leave to make a quick introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : There are two Grade 8 students from King's-Edgehill School here with us today: Leo Duggan and Henry Hansen.

Leo has been here before. This is Henry's first time, so I want to welcome Henry. They've just finished Debate Camp so they're ready to take on any one of us. It's so important when we see students from all over the province come to see the proceedings. I want to take the opportunity and ask everyone to give them a warm welcome to the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. We hope you enjoy your time. It's lovely to know that you are both involved in debate.

The honourable member for Sydney-Membertou.

[Page 4970]

EXTREME FLOODING IN C.B.: LOSS OF LIFE AND RESCUE EFFORTS - RECOG.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : I want to take a moment to acknowledge a devastating loss of a 46-year-old woman from Cleveland in Richmond County. A loss of life like this is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, and loved ones. I know this loss is being felt deeply throughout the community. I hope they know that people across Nova Scotia are thinking of them during this incredibly difficult time.

Across Cape Breton people are still dealing with the aftermath of extraordinary flooding, washed-out roads, damaged infrastructure, flooded properties, and significant disruption to daily life. For many families, the full extent of this damage is still becoming clear.

I want to recognize the first responders, volunteer firefighters, search crews, municipal staff, and road and infrastructure crews who have been working tirelessly on the ground helping people stay safe, responding to emergencies, restoring access, and beginning the difficult work of assessing and mitigating the damage.

To everyone affected, our thoughts are with you. We stand with these communities, and we will continue to stand with you as you recover and rebuild.

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

EXTREME FLOODING IN C.B.: COMMUNITY SUPPORT - THANKS

DIANNE TIMMINS: I rise today to recognize the devastating weekend our communities across Cape Breton have just endured. A slow-moving storm hit Cape Breton starting Friday night, dropping more than 250 millimetres of rain in parts of the Island in two days. Roads, culverts, and bridges were washed out across Richmond, Inverness, and Victoria counties, leaving residents cut off.

In response, neighbours came together to cut emergency trails and to cross washed-out roads on ATVs to check on one another.

I want to thank the staff of the Department of Public Works, who got to work immediately, as well as the members of the Nova Scotia Guard, the RCMP, fire departments, and search and rescue volunteers who worked around the clock.

The command centre in Port Hawkesbury did an amazing job getting everyone coordinated quickly.

Amidst this devastation, Cape Breton also suffered a profound loss: A 46-year-old woman from Cleveland, Richmond County lost her life in the flooding. Our condolences go out to her family and loved ones and to everyone across our island who grieves alongside them. Thank you. (Applause) 

[Page 4971]

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

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Thank you, Speaker. The first day is always super busy. I just ask for unanimous consent to add 15 minutes to members' statements. I ask for unanimous consent from the Opposition. 

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

Is it agreed? 

It is agreed. 

We will add another 15 minutes on to this time right now. 

The honourable member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island. 

WRITERS' FEDERATION OF N.S.: 50^TH ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

LISA LACHANCE « » : I rise today on International Literacy Day to recognize the 50^th anniversary of the Writers' Federation of Nova Scotia. In fiction and non-fiction, in prose and political analysis for all ages, writers tell the story of who we are and where we live, challenge our perspectives, and inspire us to dream of what could be. 

Established in 1976, the Writers' Federation works as writers helping writers. They hold workshops on different types of literature, the how-tos of writing and publishing, and offer prizes and recognition. This type of support is fundamental to helping writers turn ideas and talent into pieces that can be shared. The Writers' Federation also has many ways for Nova Scotians to connect with writers, through author's talks, micro-anthologies of Nova Scotian writers, Booktoberfest on October 3^rd, literary awards, and the Writers In The Schools program. 

I ask all members to join me in recognizing the 50^th anniversary of the Writers' Federation of Nova Scotia and to wish them well. I encourage my fellow members to also join me to wish them a happy golden jubilee. 

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

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : I beg leave to make an introduction unrelated to my member statement. 

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do. 

BECKY DRUHAN « » : Thanks so much. I'd like to draw the attention of the House to the gallery where we're joined today by Amanda Mombourquette, deputy warden and District 4 councillor for the Municipality of the County of Richmond. I'm pleased to welcome Amanda to Province House, and I ask all members here to join me in making her feel welcome. (Applause) 

[Page 4972]

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

The honourable member for Lunenburg West. 

WAMBOLDT, MICHELLE: NOVEL, BIRTH ROAD - CONGRATS

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : I rise today to recognize Nova Scotian author, Michelle Wamboldt. Originally from Truro, and now residing on the South Shore, Michelle has made a significant contribution to our province's literary community. Her debut novel, Birth Road, was an historical fiction inspired by her grandmother's life in early 20^th-century rural Nova Scotia. Her powerful storytelling earned her the prestigious 2024 Margaret and John Savage First Book Award for fiction. 

Birth Road was selected by the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development as part of the Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Bystander Intervention Studies curriculum following the recommendations of the Mass Casualty Commission. Michelle's novel is now available in every high school in Nova Scotia. Michelle credits much of this success to being offered a publishing contract with Nimbus Publishing: a Nova Scotian author telling a Nova Scotian story published by a Nova Scotian publishing house. Michelle reminds us of the impact of books, of stories, and of those who tell them. Speaker, I ask all members of this House to join me in recognizing Michelle Wamboldt, thanking her for helping to preserve and share our history through her writing, and wishing her continued success. 

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

TIM OUTHIT « » : I beg leave to make a few introductions before reading my statement. 

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do. 

TIM OUTHIT « » : Joining us in the gallery today from ZEMÎ Technologies we have Peyton Baird, we have Dr. Khalifani, Paul Bendevis, Graham McGuire, and Jacob Godin. Please stand, folks, and receive our welcome. (Applause) 

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

The honourable member for Bedford Basin. 

ZEMÎ TECHNOLOGIES: NEW INITIATIVES - RECOG.

[Page 4973]

TIM OUTHIT « » : I rise today to recognize the co-founders of ZEMÎ Technologies. Peyton Baird, who grew up in Bedford Basin, and Dr. Khalifani. ZEMÎ is a Nova Scotia technology company using proprietary artificial intelligence models to integrate and analyze the entirety of mineral exploration company data. Its mineral productivity maps help exploration companies identify and prioritize areas with the greatest potential for mineralization. ZEMÎ was accepted into Invest Nova Scotia's Accelerate program earlier this year. 

[2:00 p.m.]

They provide AI-assisted mineral prospectivity mapping service for junior mining explorers. Its platform integrates multiple types of geoscience data with mineral systems information to generate prospectivity maps that support exploration and drill targeting. By improving how they do this exploration, it's interpreted, and drills are accepted. ZEMÎ can help companies use capital, reduce unnecessary drilling, and limit environmental disturbance. The company intends to grow in Nova Scotia, hire locally, and bring innovative, export-oriented technology to Canadian international markets. Speaker, I ask all members to join me in wishing them the best of luck.

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

MOSCOVITCH, CALLUM: LOCAL ARIST - RECOG.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Speaker, Callum Moscovitch is a multidisciplinary illustrator and designer who lives in Dartmouth North, whose work some may recognize if you received a holiday card from the member for Halifax Chebucto last year. Most recently, Callum's art can be seen at the Cogswell district as he was one of five artists selected to be part of InterCHANGE, an art project-pilot program created by IOTA Studios. The collection he created for InterCHANGE, titled "Surrounding," is five pieces that explore and reflect the relationship between human-made infrastructure and wild space. These pieces are, to use his words, to reflect that "wildlife is positioned as marginalized - but not weak. Tenaciously growing along every inch of space afforded to them and reflect the identifies of people who are pushed to the edges." Callum's art is often influenced by his journey living with schizophrenia, relationships with the land, and his continued activism.

I ask the House to please join me in congratulating Callum and recognizing him for this his beautiful collection and wish him continued success as an illustrator.

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

NEW BEECHVILLE LAKESIDE TIMBERLEA TRAIL: BOARD AND FUNDING - RECOG.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : I want to recognize the newly formed Beechville Lakeside Timberlea Trail Association and the dedicated volunteers who stepped forward to support the future of one of our community's most valued assets and one of if not the most-used trail in our province. The community trail is a 13-kilometre multi-use trail connecting Beechville, Lakeside, and Timberlea. It's used year-round by walkers, cyclists, runners, dog walkers, ATV users, snowmobilers, and families who enjoy the outdoors. After a period of uncertainty around the future of the trail, I co-hosted a meeting with Councillor Janet Steele that resulted in more than 200 community members coming out in support of the trail that resulted in a new board. I want to extend a special thank you to the Department of Natural Resources for proceeding with the funding that had already been secured for extensive trail work and maintenance completed this past summer. I want to recognize the members of the new board: Richard Bajona, Chair; David Batt, Vice-Chair; Rick Boudreau, Treasurer; Andrea Urquhart, Secretary; Mel Smith, Trail Manager; Desaree da Cruz; Alfred Mulally; James Brown; Dan Gervais, Dan Urquhart; Kevin Cox; Noah Bourque; Larry Sampson; and Steve Thomas. Please join me in thanking the new BLT Trails Association and its board members for their leadership, stewardship, and commitment to protecting this treasured community trail for residents today and for generations to come.

[Page 4974]

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

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Before I make my statement, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Joining us today the gallery are the incredible Kate Dunsworth Casey and Kathryn Rand from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. Kate and Kathryn, I ask that you rise to receive a warm welcome from the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. (Interruption) I can tell.

The honourable member for Halifax Atlantic.

HEART AND STROKE FDN.: HEART SCREENING AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT - SUPPORT

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, I have been asked by the Heart and Stroke Foundation to help residents understand their personal risk factors and to take action to reduce or manage them. This is so important because nine in ten Canadians have at least one risk factor. Unfortunately, only about half of those know what those personal risks are.

There's a lot we can do to reduce our risks. Nearly 80 percent of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented by adopting healthy behaviours. Making changes to our diet, physical activity, nicotine use, stress, and many other factors can have a significant impact. But that's hard to do unless you know what you need to change.

[Page 4975]

Kate Dunworth Casey, who is here with us today, never imagined that she would experience a heart attack in her early thirties. She had no traditional risk factors for heart disease, but a condition called SCAD - when a sudden tear forms in the wall of a heart artery - changed her life.

Today, she is passionate about helping women understand that heart disease doesn't always look the way we expect. Knowing your personal risk is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health. That is where the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Risk Screen comes in. It's an online tool that helps users understand their heart and brain health risk and take action to manage them. Risk Screen is free, easy to complete, and provides recommendations that help users manage their individual risk factors.

I'd like to thank the Heart and Stroke Foundation for their important work in raising awareness of risk factors for heart disease and stroke and helping to improve the health of people across our province.

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

EXTREME FLOODING IN C.B.: LOSS OF LIFE AND RESCUE EFFORTS - RECOG.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Over the weekend, Cape Breton once again experienced a devastating storm. Unfortunately, this storm took the life of a woman from Cleveland in Richmond County, and I want to express my deepest condolences to her family, her friends, and the residents of Richmond at this difficult time.

I want to give a thank you to all the first responders, to the municipal and provincial public works staff who worked nonstop during this storm, and the workers and the volunteers who have been helping with the cleanup ever since.

As neighbours continue to check on neighbours and the cleanup continues, we look toward the future in the hopes of becoming climate resilient. Again, my thoughts are back home with everybody in Cape Breton as we continue to clean up.

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

BEECHVILLE LAKESIDE TIMBERLEA: NEW COMM. CENTRE - CONGRATS. 

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : I rise to celebrate the grand opening this past spring of the new Beechville Lakeside Timberlea Community Centre. This is one of the most special highlights of my time as an MLA and a project that has been more than 10 years in the making.

For the communities of Beechville, Lakeside, Timberlea, this centre is more than a building. It's a pillar of our community where families, seniors, youth, athletes, volunteers, and neighbours can come together every day for sports, meetings, meals, programs, and connection. I am particularly pleased to know that children in our community now have a healthy, welcoming place to gather after school and on weekends.

[Page 4976]

This new facility includes spaces that will serve our community for generations, including meeting and activity rooms; a double, full-size gymnasium; and a commercial community kitchen with industrial-grade equipment that can support cooking classes, community meals, and food security programs. It also includes a splash pad that's become quite popular.

I want to thank everyone who helped move this vision forward over many years, including community members, volunteers, municipal and federal partners, and all those who advocated for a modern gathering place for Beechville, Lakeside, Timberlea. Our community is excited for the many events, celebrations, programs, and memories that will be created in this beautiful new facility for years to come.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Annapolis.

DAVID BOWLBY « » : Before I begin my statement, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

DAVID BOWLBY « » : Joining us today in the gallery are Anthony Winston III and Erin Winston from Free From Co-Packing. Erin and Anthony, I would ask you to please stand to be welcomed by the members of the Legislature. (Applause)

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

The honourable member for Annapolis.

WORRY FREE FOOD AND FREE FROM CO-PACKING: LOCAL BUSINESS - RECOG.

DAVID BOWLBY « » : Today, I rise to recognize Anthony Winston III and Erin Winston, co-founders of Worry Free Food and Free From Co-Packing in Middleton.

Inspired by their own daughters' severe food allergies, Anthony and Erin turned a personal mission into a growing Nova Scotia business. They recently expanded into the former Valley Flaxflour facility, creating a dedicated, top allergen-free and celiac-safe dry food manufacturing hub.

Today, Free From Co-Packing produces their own lines while helping other inclusive brands scale, even incorporating AI into their food safety systems. Their vision is making Middleton a leading hub for safe food manufacturing while creating local jobs, supporting their rural economy, and opening new markets for Nova Scotia farmers.

[Page 4977]

I ask all members to join me in congratulating Anthony and Erin Winston on their dedication, innovation, and investment in our community.

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

ADDICTION REHABILITATION: IMPROVEMENT OF FACILITIES - IMPLORE 

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : When a Nova Scotia resident asks for help to recover from an addiction, the answer should never depend on their ability to pay. The Inpatient Withdrawal Management Program does offer medical management for a few days to stop using a substance, but this is not rehabilitation. Recovery may require rehabilitation, residential care with counselling, professional mental health care, relapse prevention, and after-care planning.

What many may not know is that there are no publicly funded rehabilitation, in-person facilities here in Nova Scotia for those who want to get rehab from addictions. Through the Nova Scotia Human Rights Remedy, residents of institutional facilities are moving into supported community living. As residential centres become vacant across Nova Scotia, the Province will have suitable buildings and experienced staff willing to work in addiction rehab.

People asking for help deserve a genuine path to recovery and we ask for the government to consider these facilities to open as publicly funded rehabs for those with addictions in Nova Scotia.

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

PLOUGHMAN'S LUNCHEONETTE: LOCAL RESTAURANT - RECOG.

HON. BECKY DRUHAN « » : I rise today to recognize Ploughman's Luncheonette, a vital hub and economic and community anchor in West Dublin, Nova Scotia. Owners Lou Sheppard and Pamela Hart purchased the business in November 2025, and, since then, they have worked to expand its offerings while building on the character of this special place.

Operating out of a beautifully preserved 1860s former general store, Ploughman's is a vibrant and inclusive gathering space that connects our rural heritage with a modern, welcoming vision for the South Shore. From delicious baked treats to full lunch and supper offerings, Ploughman's showcases the best of Nova Scotian producers. Their shop also features a selection of Nova Scotia–made products, giving customers another way to support local markets.

Ploughman's offers more than good food. It is a safe, family-friendly, 2SLGBTQIA+ welcoming space that brings people together and strengthens the social fabric of our community. Businesses like Ploughman's are the beating heart of our rural communities. They create local jobs, support producers, attract visitors, and give neighbours a place to connect.

[Page 4978]

I ask all members of this House to join me in thanking Pamela, Lou, and their entire team for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the South Shore.

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

JOLLIMORE, ANDREW: 36^TH BIRTHDAY - CELEBRATE

PAUL WOZNEY « » : For everyone in Sackville and people the world over, the coming of September 8^th can mean only one thing: It's Andrew Jollimore's birthday. Andrew lives with autism and epilepsy, and he loves getting the mail with his mom, Denise. Today he turns 36, and, thanks to a viral Facebook post made by his mom, cards from all over the world have descended on Sackville to help Andrew celebrate. For the tens of thousands of people who saw the post and responded, it's a safe bet this will be the biggest mail haul yet.

Andrew is a huge WWE fan, loves The Simpsons, The Avengers, and SpongeBob SquarePants. He's an encyclopedia of Trailer Park Boys trivia and can name any episode from a single quote. I hope 36 is his best year yet, and I think it would mean the world to him if all present would stand and join me in wishing Andrew the happiest on his 36^th. (Standing ovation)

THE SPEAKER « » : Happy birthday, Andrew.

The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

HON. TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Permission to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Please do.

TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Speaker, in your Gallery, we have Mitch Sabbagh. Mitch is a strong advocate for red tape reduction and service efficiency. Mitch, please stand and receive the warm welcome of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : Welcome to the House. We hope you enjoy your time here. The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

SABBAGH, MITCH: LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR - RECOG.

TIMOTHY HALMAN « » : Mitch Sabbagh has been a thoughtful advocate for reducing red tape and making it easier for businesses and innovators across Nova Scotia. He's also an award-winning writer and narrative designer who has worked on numerous video game projects throughout his career. I'd like to take this opportunity and thank Mitch for being here with us today, for his interest and dedication, and for making Nova Scotia an economic powerhouse.

[Page 4979]

I ask all members of this House to thank Mitch for his advocacy and work in promoting sustainable economic development and prosperity for Nova Scotia.

[2:15 p.m.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The time is now 2:15 p.m. We will finish at 3:05 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

PREM.: FEDERAL COUNTER TARIFFS AFFECT

NOVA SCOTIAN PROSPERITY - ADDRESS

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, today the federal government's counter-tariffs come into effect. Nova Scotians are worried. Housing, groceries, and bills are getting less and less affordable, and we know that these measures will make things harder. In the face of this, we need to support local jobs, but in the last budget, the government made cuts that cost jobs in tourism, in arts and culture, in post-secondary, and in the public sector.

Will the Premier restore the thoughtless cuts that cost people jobs so that as many people as possible are in a position to weather this economic storm?

THE PREMIER « » : We know these are troubling times. This is a difficult time for our relationship with the United States. It's a difficult time with the cost of living. We know family budgets are tough. They're under a lot of pressure. We know that every grocery bill, every rental payment, every mortgage payment, and every power bill puts incredible stress on a number of families.

Some of these pressures are outside of our control - outside of our borders. We can't control wars. We can't control tariffs. We can't control what happens in the United States, but we can control what happens here in Nova Scotia. That's why we're focused on trying to make sure we do what we can to grow the Nova Scotia economy and support Nova Scotians. We'll continue to do that.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Workers are on the front line of this trade war, and we can control the protections we have for workers. In the face of Trump's tariffs, Nova Scotian workers have some of the worst protections in Canada. Until today, they were only entitled to overtime pay after 48 hours. Now it's 44. That still puts us behind the eight provinces and territories that mandate overtime pay after 40 hours. Gig workers, like Uber drivers, are not protected by the Labour Standards Code at all. Women still get paid 15 cents less than men in Nova Scotia - on average, almost $200 less per week. There are no guaranteed numbers of sick days that are paid for Nova Scotian workers.

[Page 4980]

As we're thrown into a tariff war, will the Premier finally stand up for workers at home?

THE PREMIER « » : We're focused on protecting Nova Scotians. We're focused on protecting paycheques and growing the economy. I was encouraged with Statistics Canada's recent report that said 16,600 more Nova Scotians are working this year than a year ago in the month of August. Canada lost 40,000 jobs in August. Not Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia added 2,600 jobs - one of only five provinces to join.

That's happening because we're breaking down trade barriers and exploring our natural resources. The plan is working, and we will stick to it.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, many of those jobs are not protected and workers are being treated unfairly. They are facing a trade war and living with the harmful impacts of this government's cuts. People are working hard, but the skyrocketing cost of living, paired with more tariffs, make their futures feel even more uncertain.

This government tabled a $1.2 billion deficit in the spring, and now the Premier is saying to the Chamber of Commerce crowds that it's closer to $2 billion, but Nova Scotians are still in the dark about what the real numbers are.

A budget update is due by September 30^th, and people have to know what's coming. They deserve a government they can trust.

Will the Premier commit to providing Nova Scotians with a budget update during this Legislative sitting?

THE PREMIER « » : Absolutely. I issued a warning to Nova Scotians. We have a budget. We're working with that budget. But we also have to deal with a little mess the Liberals left us in Bill No. 148.

We have to settle with the unions and treat them fairly. That will be a big number. I suspect the Leader of the Official Opposition wants us to treat the unions fairly on that - treat those Nova Scotians fairly. That is what we do.

Too often in this Chamber, we have real challenges in this province - in this country. I accept that, and I acknowledge that. We are working to get through them. Too often, the Opposition's answer is simply to spend more - tax more. The Opposition wants to make Nova Scotians poorer.

We will not increase their taxes. We will be good stewards of the public purse, we will grow the economy, and we will do everything we can to protect Nova Scotians.

[Page 4981]

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

PREM.: PROV. PLAN REGARDING IMPACTS OF TARIFFS - ADDRESS

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Today, Canada's counter-tariff measures take effect. We're glad to see a united approach to standing up to the United States and protecting Canadian workers and businesses, but this uncertainty has been building for years. We've had plenty of time to scenario-plan, and Nova Scotians need to know this government is ready to act before the worst impacts hit our economy.

Recently, the Quebec government held an emergency Cabinet meeting to provide emergency assistance to small and medium businesses and is creating an interprovincial task force. I'll table that.

My question to the Premier is simple: What is the government doing right now to get ahead of this economic impact of tariffs, and what sectors has he identified that will be most vulnerable that he is ready to step up and support today?

THE PREMIER « » : This is a difficult time. It's a difficult time for our country. It's a difficult time for the relationship with the United States. It's a longstanding relationship - family connections, friendships, business relationships. This is difficult. It's not one to be politicized.

Quebec is a different situation. They are in an election; they have to bring their Cabinet back. Our Cabinet will meet again this week, like we do every week. We have measures in the budget, but this is going to be difficult. This is our longest and biggest trading partner, and it is nasty right now.

We will work our way through it. I will support the Prime Minister in any way I can. We'll put Nova Scotians first. We will protect jobs, diversify our economy, and look for ways to grow that are not so dependent on one customer.

IAIN RANKIN « » : Bringing up the issue that's most important to our country and our province right now is not politicizing it in Question Period.

The Premier has pointed to an allocation to a previous budget on how he is going to support Nova Scotians through this tariff situation, but when the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board was asked about this and how much money was spent, he didn't know how much, if any, was spent to help Nova Scotians. This juxtaposes with provinces that are taking real action today.

Nova Scotians deserve to know they are going to be supported strategically and how they can get the greatest impact for these public dollars that are going to be spent.

My question to the Premier « » : How much of the previous allocation was actually spent, and what criteria did the government use to make sure that it delivered the greatest benefit to support our economy?

[Page 4982]

THE PREMIER « » : In a time of uncertainty, I will deliver two certainties for the Leader of the Liberal Party. The first certainty is that we will do what is necessary to support Nova Scotians and protect them through this process. We will spend what is needed to be spent. We will look out for Nova Scotians. That is a certainty, absolutely.

The second certainty is that when we do, the Opposition will complain that we spent too much, but we will do it anyway. We will also clean up the messes they left and the way they treated unions unconstitutionally - what they did to Nova Scotians. We will give you a thorough certainty. We will step up and fix that, too.

IAIN RANKIN « » : Everybody knows this Premier is proud to spend. He spent $7 billion outside of the budget process. He continues to go out to tender outside the procurement process, wasting taxpayer dollars. That's why we're in the fiscal mess we're in today.

Tariffs are going to put even more pressure on working families. Power rates went up 24 percent over his watch. Grocery prices went up 27 percent over the same period. We're putting forward solutions to both lower power bills and lower grocery bills. These are the things that the premiers can control - a national issue but an issue right here under his jurisdiction. He can act to lower the cost of groceries in Nova Scotia and take pressure off families before tariffs make it worse.

My question to the Premier is: Will he act now to lower grocery bills for Nova Scotians and make sure families aren't paying the price for this economic uncertainty?

THE PREMIER « » : Families are under pressure, for sure. We know that. That's why we instituted the School Lunch Program - to help families. The School Lunch Program is an investment in Nova Scotians. It does two things. It makes sure that kids have a healthy lunch at school, and it also takes pressure off families. That's not wasteful.

I think the Leader of the Liberal party summarized the Liberal Party in his one statement there - "wasteful spending." We invest in Nova Scotians. There is a reason we have to spend so much. It's because the Liberals left such a mess in health care, in infrastructure deficits, and in relationships with Nova Scotians through unions.

We will spend. We will invest. We will fix it. We will get this province on a path to move forward - something they couldn't do.

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

PREM.: N.S. POWER RATES SOARING AND SUPPORTS CUT - ADDRESS

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, the Premier has appointed himself the Minister of Energy again, and Nova Scotians are watching to see if he will finally rein in Nova Scotia Power for their high bills and bad service. While the Premier picks up and drops this important job, Nova Scotians are left spending 30 per cent more on their home energy bills compared to the average Canadian. Instead of helping, this government chose last year to cut the Heating Assistance Rebate Program, leaving 64,000 Nova Scotians in the cold.

[Page 4983]

My question is: What action will the Minister of Energy take as his first priority to help Nova Scotians afford their power this winter?

THE PREMIER « » : Nova Scotians have every right to be frustrated by their power bills. We know that. People want affordable energy. They want reliable electricity. For too long Nova Scotia relied upon imports of fuel from elsewhere, but look what happens. Wars happen - not controllable by this House. Wars happen and drive the price of fuel up. Global trade wars happen and drive the price of fuel up. Donald Trump and the U.S. administration have more power over our electricity bills than we do.

That's wrong. That's why we are making structural changes to the energy we use to make sure that Nova Scotians have some stability in power bills for the long term. I hope that member gets behind our plan to use more Nova Scotia local fuels to lower power bills.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : With respect, I heard nothing about how Nova Scotians are going to be able to afford the skyrocketing costs to heat homes this winter. Last winter, we heard from many Nova Scotians who were faced with the tough decision to keep on the heat or to buy groceries. In one case, a constituent described having to keep the temperatures so low that they could see their breath inside. They didn't qualify for the Heating Assistance Rebate Program.

We recently learned that 8,000 people were denied support through that program while the fund was underspent by $11 million, and we know that heat will be more expensive this winter. Why is the Premier cutting support to Nova Scotians who are already paying the highest prices in Canada?

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

HON. JILL BALSER » : Speaker, I want to thank the member opposite for this important question. It does give me the opportunity to be able to share more information about HARP. This is one affordability rebate that is available to Nova Scotians, and it is another reason why we want to be able to look at all rebates and supports to Nova Scotians in a very holistic way.

We supported 54,000 households and individuals last year. That is significant, but we had some learnings from looking at the data from last year. We want to improve upon the program and make sure that we are communicating directly to Nova Scotians that on October 1^st, HARP will be available. Nova Scotians who are eligible to apply should apply on October 1^st.

[Page 4984]

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

OSD: LACK OF SUPPORT AND PROTECTIONS FOR UNHOUSED - EXPLAIN

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, no one chooses to live in a tent, but an increasing number of Nova Scotians are finding themselves in a desperate situation. For the last five years, this government has refused to put in place protections for renters, and on their watch, homelessness has more than tripled in Halifax. Now they are changing regulations in the face of legal decisions to deny people living in tents the ability to get into more permanent housing. These decisions are cruel.

[2:30 p.m.]

Why is this government making choices that keep more vulnerable people in tent encampments?

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK » : I believe all of the members of this House would agree that although we know there are people living in tents - some in their cars and in campers built for summer adventures - they deserve better. Our intent is that every Nova Scotian has access to the best possible supports to meet their needs. The best possible supports are not outside in a tent. Surely the events of this past weekend showed us that. They're inside, where we can offer safety, stability, and community.

THE SPEAKER « » : Order.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : If they had the best possible supports, they would not be living in tents. Bradley Lowe is a young man who died in a tent encampment in December 2023. He and his human rights lawyer, Vince Calderhead, had been fighting for support and dignity for unhoused people. Bradley and others living in tents were trying to survive and get off the street on just $300 per month.

Many of the Nova Scotians who find themselves homeless are trying everything they can to get back on their feet. Why won't this government give them a fighting chance?

SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : No Nova Scotian should have to sleep outside. I have great empathy for those who have not always had the supports around them to prevent homelessness. We can't make anyone come inside, but our teams - outreach teams, emergency shelters, and supportive and transitional housing - are all geared to helping people, supporting people, even as we help them to come inside, not simply to be housed but to have the skills and supports to stay housed.

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

SNS: RENTERS LACKING TIMELY RTA SUPPORT - ADDRESS

[Page 4985]

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : It's harder than ever for renters in this province, thanks to this government. Not only have they let rents skyrocket and left the fixed-term lease loophole open, but now there is a three-month wait to try to get help from the Residential Tenancies Board. That's because there aren't enough staff, thanks to the government's cuts to the public service.

How are renters in Nova Scotia supposed to build a life here when this government is doing everything they can to make it harder?

HON. JILL BALSER « » : We did see some vacancies within our Residential Tenancies team. I'm proud of the work that has been done to be able to fill those vacancies. It's one of the reasons why, of course, we had to communicate with Nova Scotians that they were going to see longer wait times. That is another reason why we were dedicated to making sure that we can fill in those vacancies, train the team in an appropriate timeline, and make sure that we can respond to Nova Scotians who have active hearings before our team.

What's important is to make sure that we're communicating what the Residential Tenancies Program does and make sure, when there is a dispute between a landlord and a tenant, that this is the avenue that they can come forward to. I know also that with my colleague, the Minister of Housing, there are a number of measures that are helping to address the affordability, and that's also growing our supply. We'll continue to be focused on those measures.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mark Culligan of Dalhousie Legal Aid said that we have the biggest rollback of tenants' rights that we have seen in a generation, and it's thanks to this government. They've decided to leave the fixed-term lease loophole open so that every year, thousands more people are forced to sign these leases, which compromise their rights and lead to huge rent increases.

When will this government stand up for renters and finally close the fixed-term lease loophole?

JILL BALSER « » : I'm going to mention, of course, my honourable colleague the Minister of Housing, who is going to be anxious to get up and speak about the initiatives that are happening in housing.

Speaker, that is one thing that we have been sharing with Nova Scotians: Nova Scotians deserve choice. They deserve choice for the place that they want to be able to call home. We also know that when there is a dispute, that's one of the reasons why they can come forward to the Residential Tenancies Program. If someone is not living in a safe place, or they have an issue with their contract - whatever the issue might be - they can come forward to the program.

Again, I'm very proud of our team and the accomplishments that we have. We have a goal to get back to the best number of wait times in the country. We are going to be focused on that goal.

[Page 4986]

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

TRADE: RELIANCE ON U.S. FOR TRADE - ADDRESS

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Speaker, Nova Scotia has everything it needs to be the export capital of Canada: our ports, our natural resources, our agriculture, and our world-class seafood. The reality is we continue to remain heavily dependent on the United States, with more than 70 percent of our exports going south of the border while our trade with other major markets, like China, is declining.

The federal government has set a clear goal of doubling Canada's exports to non-U.S. markets by 2035. In fact, this government has said it supports that goal and has talked about Nova Scotia taking the lead on trade diversification.

My question is for the Minister of Trade: What is Nova Scotia's target? How much does the Premier plan to reduce our dependence on the U.S. market by 2035?

HON. TIM HOUSTON « » : The member is right. The country has woken up. We have a great customer in the United States. It has been a long-standing customer. It has been an easy customer. That's not going to be suitable going forward.

As a Province, we've been looking for new markets. We've been trying to diversify our trade for quite some time. The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture has been opening up new markets for our seafood. Also, as a Province we're investing $4 million in market diversification. That plan is working, Speaker. Exports to France, Denmark, Spain, and Italy combined were reported as 36 percent higher in 2025 than in 2024. That's over $60 million in new exports. The plan is working.

IAIN RANKIN « » : As tariffs take effect today, Nova Scotian businesses are facing even more uncertainty in our largest export markets. The Premier says Nova Scotia is ready to take the lead on trade diversification, but if it really is the plan, then the government needs to invest in infrastructure to actually make that possible.

The port of Halifax is one of our biggest advantages here. A major expansion could increase our ability to move Nova Scotia products in markets around the world while also creating jobs and stimulating our economy through infrastructure investment. New Brunswick's provincial government has invested in their port of Saint John.

Will the Premier commit to putting provincial dollars towards that port of Halifax expansion, or is his plan to simply hope that someone else pays for it and Carney saves the day again?

TIM HOUSTON « » : Our ports across this province - and we have a number of them - are incredible assets for us. We need them. We need to invest in them.

[Page 4987]

I understand the ambitions of the Port of Halifax. I support them. As a matter of fact, I got a call from the Port of Halifax on a weekend asking if I'd accompany them to a meeting with the largest shipping company in the world in just three days. We booked a ticket. We went over there. We sat beside the Port of Halifax and told the story of Nova Scotia to the owner of the largest shipping company in the world, who has an interest in the Port of Halifax.

It was a fantastic meeting. I read all about it in the media when the two Leaders of the Opposition were complaining that I had taken that trip.

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

OSD: RULES CHANGED AND HELP DENIED FOR UNHOUSED - EXPLAIN

LINA HAMID « » : This government won't stop punching down. After the Court of Appeal ruled that people living in tents are entitled to a higher rate of income assistance, this government immediately changed the rule to deny them the help and take that money away - taking money away from people living in tents. Then, this government changed the rules to ensure that people living in tents don't qualify for disability supplements. These people live in tents, and that is cruel.

My question is: How can this government possibly justify denying people in tents the social safety nets they require?

HON. SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : Government has an obligation to ensure our legislation and our regulations clearly reflect policy intent so they can be applied consistently and transparently across the province.

As I said earlier, Nova Scotians experiencing homelessness - we are there to support them every day. Our outreach teams are out there every day, but we are also there to help them to get the skills and supports they need to become housed in a province that has a climate that makes tents an unsafe option.

LINA HAMID « » : The fact that this government only thought about improving the legislation and making it more clear after the fact that this court's ruling came out is especially cruel. People living in tents don't live in tents because it's fun. They live in tents because they can't afford anywhere else, because after five years of this government, housing costs are through the roof.

Homelessness has tripled and when the courts decide that people living in tents need more help, this government's only response is to rush to change the rules so that they can't get it. How can the minister not see how cruel this is?

SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : The role of the courts is to interpret the law, and what the courts pointed out was that there was a lack of clarity in regard to these regulations. In fact, the amendments we made are very much in line with the court decision, but there were a number of amendments. These had been worked on for some time, and in fact, even the earlier court decisions have alerted us to this, so we were able to come forward with several amendments that formalized our commitment to indexing income assistance with inflation, to formalize several programs, and ...

[Page 4988]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order.

SUSAN CORKUM-GREEK « » : ... to correct that other issue.

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

CCTH: PRIVATE SUPPORT FUNDING PUBLIC LIBRARIES - ADDRESS

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Nova Scotians have a lot to thank Rachel Reid for. Not only did this author create a love story for the ages with her Heated Rivalry series, but she also stepped in to save rural libraries when this government refused to. Her incredibly generous donation of $300,000 will keep five Annapolis Valley library branches open for the rest of the year, but Rachel says that private donations can't replace government policy, and I agree with her.

My question is for the Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. Does the minister really think keeping public libraries open should depend on the generosity of bestselling authors?

HON. DAVE RITCEY » : We are grateful, just like every Nova Scotian is proud in this province, giving donations and being generous. Thank you, Rachel Reid, for doing that.

Library funding is a shared responsibility, and we provided an additional $500,000 this year to already protecting $16.4 million to our regional library system.

[2:45 p.m.]

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Libraries are much more than a place to borrow books. They are a place where parents can take their kids, where families can access programs, where people can get social service support, where communities come together. Rachel Reid knows how important libraries are, but it's strange that this government either can't, or won't, recognize their value.

While Rachel's generosity will buy these five branches some time, the funding problem has not gone away.

My question to the minister is: Will the minister finally commit to stable, sustainable, adequate funding so communities can count on these services for years to come?

[Page 4989]

DAVE RITCEY « » : We are proud of our libraries right across this province. They do so much for us in our communities and I can't thank the people who work there enough.

Just to let the member know, I've been travelling the province all summer and we've been talking to different community members, stakeholders, library regional boards, CORL, and we'll keep AVRL and municipal partners in sustainable operating funding.

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

LSI: OVERDUE CHANGES TO OVERTIME RULES - ADDRESS

PAUL WOZNEY « » : This government is finally making long overdue changes to overtime rules. It took them five years, but better late than never. Any progress is good but even with this change, thousands of workers continue to be left behind. Construction and sawmill workers can still be required to work 110 hours over a two-week period. Workers in oil and gas, IT, and shipbuilding can still have their overtime calculated at minimum wage instead of their actual wage.

My question to the minister is: These exemptions don't exist in most other provinces. If this government is truly serious about protecting Nova Scotian workers, why does it continue to leave so many behind in the face of U.S. tariffs?

HON. NOLAN YOUNG « » : We've made significant changes with what we've tabled today. It's going to put more money in the pockets of workers, it's going to help them qualify earlier for overtime.

I hope the member across the aisle supports it.

PAUL WOZNEY « » : Hardworking Nova Scotians don't think this is funny. This government and the last has left them with the weakest labour laws in the country. Lowering the overtime threshold is the very least this government could do. It waited until we were in the middle of a trade war to do it.

These tariffs put 30,000 Nova Scotian jobs at risk. Basic worker protections shouldn't be an emergency measure brought forward only when jobs are at risk.

My question to the minister is: When will this government and this minister close the overtime loophole for workers in construction, IT, and other currently exempted sectors and bring them in line with the rest of their Canadian peers?

NOLAN YOUNG « » : The member knows that the labour standards are the minimum. As a construction worker myself, many employers far exceed these. If you look at the cranes we have around the city right now, you look at the job growth we have, Nova Scotia is growing, there's good jobs, good wages out there, and I'm excited for what's to come.

[Page 4990]

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

PREM.: EXPECTED GROCERY PRICE INCREASES REQUIRE COMPETITION - SUPPORT

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Over the last five years under this government grocery prices have increased by 27 percent. With uncertainties surrounding tariffs, prices are expected to increase even more.

To combat this, we need more competition in the food sector. Large grocery corporations, such as Loblaws and Sobeys, can use their property rights as restrictive covenants to prevent competitors from opening nearby, making it harder for independent grocers to enter the market and compete.

Manitoba and the federal government are taking action to address these kinds of barriers and improve grocery competition.

My question to the Premier is: Will the Premier follow their lead and take action here to ensure that large grocery corporations cannot use property rights or restricted covenants to stifle competition and prevent independent grocers from opening?

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Department of Service Nova Scotia.

HON. JILL BALSER « » : We know that affordability is on the minds of Nova Scotians. As the member had said, that comes with grocery pricing. That's with gas. That's with home expenses. It's a number of things. We know that government has invested in a number of affordability measures, and that includes HARP, which I spoke about earlier, but I know that there are a number of other rebates.

To the covenants piece, too, I know that this issue was brought up in the House last time around. The Minister of Municipal Affairs and I have also written to our federal counterpart to make sure that there was an alignment in any response we'd be able to take. We need to make sure that jurisdictions are together on this. We're going to look to the federal government to be able to respond. We know that there is work to do in this space, and we'll commit to doing that work.

DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : This is something the government could do that would be cost-effective for them. This is something now that other jurisdictions are looking at doing. We hope that the government joins with their provincial colleagues.

Increasing competition also means supporting independent grocers who are already serving Nova Scotia communities - places like Luminate, Gateway, and Fresh Cuts, which offer healthy food options at lower prices than their larger competitors. Independent grocery stores can provide more choice, create local jobs, and put competitive pressure on the largest chains, but the cost of renovations, equipment, and expansion can make it extremely difficult for smaller operators to compete. With tariffs threatening to increase costs even further, this is exactly the time for the government to help strengthen the independent grocery sector.

[Page 4991]

Will the Premier do more to help independent grocers with their major costs?

THE SPEAKER « » : Order.

The honourable Minister of Growth and Development.

HON. COLTON LEBLANC » : Our government's response to the tariff situation in the United States doesn't follow a midnight tweet by Donald Trump. This work has been under way for some time, whether it be on market diversification or supporting small businesses through Nova Scotia Loyal, including small business owners. We have over 2,000 - or, I believe, 2,200 - businesses from one end of the province to the other that are part of the Nova Scotia Loyal movement and over 11,000 products that are Nova Scotia Loyal. We will continue to make those investments to support Nova Scotia products and to support Nova Scotian businesses through these difficult times.

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

GAD: TOWNS REQ. INCREASED ADDICTION SUPPORTS - ADDRESS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Towns throughout Nova Scotia have been collectively speaking up because it is clear that shelters cannot meet the needs of those who are experiencing drug addiction. New Glasgow town council, for example, recently has called for a coordinated health-focused approach, including rehabilitation centres. Even shelter operators are saying that charities cannot solve mental illness, addiction, or homelessness and address community safety.

My question for the Minister of Growth and Development - the minister responsible for shelters: Does the minister agree that emergency shelters cannot and should not replace residential, in-person addiction treatment centres? I'll table this document.

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

HON. BRIAN COMER » : We know addiction is a serious issue, across the country and here at home in Nova Scotia. We know we can't force people to seek treatment, but what we can do as a government is provide those access points to service when the people want them. We've done that through our 12 recovery support centres opened right across the province. There are integrated-use service sites. There's so much that's been done in investments. We have no wait-list for our opioid use disorder treatment program across the province.

We know this is a complex issue with our municipal and federal partners and across multiple departments in the province. We're committed to continuing work on that file.

[Page 4992]

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : The reality is that there are no in-person rehabilitation centres in Nova Scotia that are publicly funded. That's the reality. While the minister did acknowledge the opioid withdrawal units, they are outpatient only, and they are not meeting the needs of what Nova Scotians are currently seeing. Shelter staff are being faced with situations that they are not trained to handle. In fact, in Amherst, we had a murder right in front of our shelter.

People are starting to speak up. People want better. I'm asking the minister and this government today: Will they commit to looking at the residential facilities that are going to be going to be empty due to the Remedy and open publicly funded rehab centres?

BRIAN COMER « » : The important message for Nova Scotians listening today is that help is available if you need it, regardless of where you live in the province, and it's at no cost to you. There are high-quality services being offered right across the province, in terms of our health system partners. There are some community groups doing incredible work that I had the privilege of seeing across my provincial tour this summer.

I can't comment too much on the private member's bill that was tabled today, but I'm always willing to look at things. I'll take a look at that, and I can follow up.

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

DHW: ER CHAOS OVER SUMMER - ADDRESS

ROD WILSON « » : It's been a summer of chaos in emergency departments across Nova Scotia. Doctors at Cape Breton Regional tell me the ER was so backed up that they saw patients in the ambulance bays on many days. I was in emergency in Bridgewater myself in July. It was so overcrowded that a fight broke out and the police had to be called. In August, in the minister's own constituency of Antigonish, the ER was at 130 percent capacity. Nothing was moving.

However, all summer, the Premier told Nova Scotians that we have a plan and it's working. This sounds tone deaf to the Nova Scotians waiting in ER hallways for days.

My question for the minister: Is there a plan for emergency services to help Nova Scotians in need of emergency care?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON » : The plan that we continue to execute is called Action for Health. We know that, on a regular basis, our hospitals around this province are at 104 percent to 140 percent capacity at times. That's because we have a number of individuals who are waiting in hospital for long-term care. There has been incredible work done in the Department of Seniors and Long-term Care. There's been incredible work not only in opening long-term care facilities but recognizing the need for more beds and with home care.

There are a number of different options so that low-acuity patients don't have to wait in the emergency room. The teams at the Nova Scotia Health Authority and IWK Health are working tirelessly and are maximizing every opportunity they have to ensure that patients don't wait. We will continue to work on that plan.

[Page 4993]

ROD WILSON « » : In the spring sitting of this Legislature, this government approved a budget for additional funding to emergency services, with no details attached. Almost six months later, there's no evidence of how this is being used and no impact or improvement in our emergency services. Department heads tell me that the weekly provincial emergency service meetings have stopped happening.

My questions to the minister are: Have the funds been used? What impact have they had on Nova Scotians?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : As we continue with Action for Health and we continue to invest significant, generational amounts of money in our health care system, we've seen a 38 percent decrease in the unscheduled closures in EDs across this province. The money is going toward things like virtual urgent care. It's going toward making sure people have alternative plans and the FLOAT MD program that's there. It's around hiring nurse practitioners, having rapid assessment units, physician assistants, and more physicians, and increasing the number of hours. There have been incredible gains.

We do have some issues around workforce recruitment and retention pieces, but we continue to work with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, IWK Health, and clinicians to find new solutions to support them in the ED environment.

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

DHW: NEW WATERFORD HEALTH CENTRE UPDATE - REQUEST

KENDRA COOMBES « » : People in New Waterford have been waiting eight years for the health centre they were promised. The previous Liberal government failed to get the New Waterford Community Hub off the ground, and after five years of this government, people are still waiting. Meanwhile, the hospital my community relies on is more than 60 years old and deteriorating, and after $55 million in contracts, the new health centre is still only in development.

[3:00 p.m.]

Can the Minister of Health and Wellness tell us: Where is the New Waterford's promised health centre?

HON. MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : What I want folks in New Waterford and Cape Breton to know is that we are very committed to health care on Cape Breton Island. We certainly have evidenced that by a significant investment. There was a plan started under the former Liberal government. It was okay. There were good bones there, but we continue to increase the services that we're providing there.

[Page 4994]

We've added a PET CT scanner. We've certainly talked about a cath lab and all those things. I know folks are concerned. We are committed to help here. We've invested over $1 billion in health care outside of the med school. I just want to assure folks there's a lot of work that's happening. People can expect community consultation coming up later in the fall, and we'll have more updates available shortly.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Speaker, the people in my community have been waiting for eight years. People in New Waterford have been more than patient. They've been promised a modern facility where they can get X-rays, blood work, cardiac services, physiotherapy, and primary care, but after eight years, two governments, they still aren't getting the care that they were promised. Instead, they're relying on an aging hospital while this government refuses to give them a clear answer about what comes next. Why won't this government give the people a straight answer about when they will finally get the health centre they were promised?

MICHELLE THOMPSON « » : Certainly, a lot has changed in eight years. There's no question about it, and certainly, the health care system of eight years ago and the one today are not the same.

We've incorporated a number of different ways in which people can receive care. We've not only invested in infrastructure but also in technology; so right now, we are looking at all of the infrastructure projects. We're wondering what is the best way forward. We're going to be in community. We're going to talk to folks, but I don't want the folks to worry in Cape Breton. We are totally committed to making sure that people in Cape Breton, in New Waterford, in Glace Bay, in Sydney - all those spots - get care close to home, and we'll continue to work with them to create that vision.

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

EECD: OPPORTUNITY FOR NEW CSAP SCHOOL - ADDRESS

LISA LACHANCE « » : Madame la Présidente, en cette période de rentrée scolaire, trop d'élèves de ma communauté ne reçoivent pas l'enseignement auquel ils ont droit. Les élèves francophones ont droit à une éducation en français, mais environ 72 d'entre eux quittent le système scolaire francophone au niveau secondaire.

Mais, il y a une solution pour la ville d'Halifax qui est tout à fait évidente. En fait, l`École Mer et Monde a déménagé dans des nouveaux locaux, puis ça signifie qu'il y a un bâtiment scolaire en raisonnable état maintenant inoccupé à Halifax Citadel. Faire de ce bâtiment une nouvelle école secondaire serait la solution la plus simple.

Alors, will the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development - I'm going to translate. Yes?

THE SPEAKER « » : Yes.

[Page 4995]

LISA LACHANCE « » : Thank you, Speaker. We're failing. In my community, there are a lot of students who are not getting the education that they have the right to. There are no francophone secondary schools on the peninsula, but there is a really easy solution.

The École Mer et Monde has just moved into a beautiful new building and that means that there is a perfectly good school building in Halifax Citadel sitting empty. Will the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development commit to working with the CSAP school board on the plan to turn the old school into a new opportunity for French secondary students?

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Thank you, Speaker. I'm very proud of the new school openings that we've had recently for CSAP. They're fantastic, state-of-the-art schools and, of course, we will continue to sit down with CSAP and the board and have these conversations and move forward with them.

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

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS 

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader. 

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Speaker, that concludes government business for today. I move that the House now rise to meet again tomorrow, September 9^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. 

Following the Daily Routine and Question Period will be Opposition business. I ask that you recognize the honourable House Leader for the Opposition business for tomorrow.

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

LISA LACHANCE « » : Tomorrow we will be calling Bill Nos. 254, 258, and 260 for second reading. 

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House do now rise to meet again on Wednesday, September 9^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. 

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried. 

The House stands adjourned until tomorrow, September 9^th, at 1:00 p.m.  

[The House rose at 3:06 p.m.] 

[Page 4996]

ANSWERS TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS

NOTICE OF QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN ANSWERS

Given on May 5, 2026 (Pursuant to Rule 30)

QUESTION NO. 15

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

1. The 2026-27 highway improvement plan included the lowest level of planned investment ($465 million) in roads and highways in the last five years, and a decline in inflation-adjusted terms. Can the minister explain why we're seeing this decrease?

ANSWER: Since taking office, this government has invested roughly $2.5 billion dollars in our five-year plans. Most of the reduction in this year's plan is in the gravel roads budget. We have made significant progress on gravel roads. When this government came to office, that budget was $20 million. We doubled it, then increased it again to $55 million. In total, we've invested more than an additional $150 million in the gravel roads program. It's not about cutting rather about reflecting the progress we've made.

2. The Province is cutting back their investments in the gravel road program, which primarily helps rural gravel roads. Did the minister consult with municipalities before making this decision to understand their needs for the upcoming year?

ANSWER: As these roads are provincially owned, it would not be typical practice to include municipalities in the internal discussion regarding the amount of funding that will be available. We remain committed to working with our municipal partners and will continue to look for ways to work together.

3. Grand Lake Road remains a problem from the washplant to Kytes Hill. The same potholes keep opening up. This road has been done a few times, and yet the same problems persist. What is being done? Are they looking into irrigation?

ANSWER: Our maintenance staff monitor Grand Lake Road for potholes and when potholes form, we dispatch crews based on available resources and weather conditions to repair them as quickly as possible. During the winter months, adverse weather makes it difficult to complete repairs, and those repairs (typically cold-mix) do not last as long. More significant repairs are planned for this summer, including milling out the potholes where possible and applying a spreader patch over a larger surface area.

[Page 4997]

Similar to potholes, we monitor the catch basins in the area for signs of debris and plugging to clean out as needed. Further, we complete street sweeping operations to reduce the debris along the curb that can wash into catch basins.

4. Why has the minister cancelled at least two meetings with CB MLAS?

ANSWER: Our initial meeting had a conflict which unfortunately coincided with the scheduled CB MLA meeting, so we did opt to reschedule.

There was an attempt to reschedule for July 31-August 1 but not enough of the Cape Breton MLAs were available to meet so we decided to look for another opportunity. The most recent attempt targeted October 23-24, unfortunately, it proved difficult to find a location that could accommodate everyone who planned to attend as this is a busy time of year for bookings.

We are currently focusing on dates in May 2026, and I look forward to meeting with the CB MLAs.

5. Does the Province have a dedicated capital program for pothole repairs? How much did the department spend on potholes in the last fiscal year?

ANSWER: Potholes are not capital items; these types of maintenance activities are included as an operating/current account activity expenditure well below government capital thresholds established for Tangible Capital Asset (TCA) limits under the Capital Program. This work is part of other capital road work projects such as resurfacing. Therefore, maintenance activity funds are used to repair under pavement patching activities.

The Department spent nearly $14 million on surface maintenance of pavements in fiscal 2024-25, which included repair of potholes and surface defects through both pothole patching ($6,912,511) and spreader patching ($6,915,887).

6. What percentage of potholes that the Province is aware of get repaired within the standard 14 days?

ANSWER: Potholes are assessed and signed whenever possible to mark the hazard to warn motorists until repairs can be undertaken. While the Department does not track the number of potholes or compliance against the standard on a regular basis, we do perform annual road maintenance audits to determine how we are doing compared to the Highway Maintenance Standards that outline the 14-day response timeframe you referenced.

[Page 4998]

It is important to note that early season potholes are difficult to repair given the changing temperatures and conditions when roads are often saturated and weak from differential winter frost dissipation. Often, the only product available is a cold mix material which may not have the same durability as the hot mix asphalt - which is more readily available when local asphalt plants are in production.

7. How often do road patrols occur to monitor the state of our roads, and what kind of coverage do they have across the province?

ANSWER: Our 100-series highways, trunks and routes are patrolled regularly by supervisory staff per Highway Maintenance Standards schedules. Local roads, both gravel and paved, are visited less frequently, but are assessed during routine road patrols and when assessing public concerns.

8. Specifically, how many FTE staff does the Province currently have conducting road patrols?

ANSWER: During the non-winter season, the department has approximately 74 Operations and Maintenance Supervisors. However, during the winter season, staffing levels are increased significantly with hundreds of maintenance staff to ensure the necessary 24/7 coverage.

9. Does the Province have any public awareness campaigns to inform Nova Scotians where they can report potholes, such as advertisements highlighting the call-in number?

ANSWER: The public is encouraged to contact the Operation Contact Centre (OCC) to report potholes in several ways. We raise awareness of the OCC through our website and social media posts. It is also part of our standard response to media questions about potholes and has been included in numerous news articles.

10. Does the Province have a system of tracking and prioritizing pothole repairs?

a) Can you table the total number of potholes in Nova Scotia that are currently beyond the 14-day repair period?

ANSWER: Potholes are repaired based on prioritization. During routine inspections, or as situations arise, deficiencies are identified and where warranted, warning signage is posted until repairs can be scheduled. When weather conditions permit, asphalt patching will be undertaken to repair potholes in accordance with our Highway Maintenance Standards. There is no statistical tracking of pothole repair progress for potholes, including those that are currently beyond the 14-day repair period. However, maintenance audits are conducted to assist in determining compliance levels for this measure and all other types of maintenance activities having maintenance standard.

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11. Does the department have a method for determining when local roads need to be fully upgraded rather than patched?

a) More specifically, is the department consistently applying a cost-benefit analysis to these situations to ensure we are always getting the best value for our money when we invest in local roads?

ANSWER: We conduct routine assessments and consider reoccurring defects and deficiencies or maintenance costs when determining whether a road should be considered for upgrading. The roads are identified and considered for inclusion in the capital program for upgrading based on their classification, traffic volume, and pavement condition. The department also uses the Automatic Road Analyzer (ARAN) vehicle to measure physical properties on paved roads, such as road roughness or wheel rut depth measurements, and to assess the extent of deterioration.

12. How many public tenders related to highway work last year were cancelled because there were either no bids or all the bids were higher than what the department was looking for?

ANSWER: Last year one tender was cancelled because there were no bids and six were cancelled because the bids were too high.

13. In the last fiscal year, can you tell us how many of the highway plan contracts were awarded to Nova Scotian companies?

a) How many went to U.S. companies?

ANSWER: In the 2025-26 fiscal year, 134 out of 151 tenders were awarded to NS Companies. There were no tenders awarded to US companies.

14. Can the Minister walk us through the specific criteria used to define a company as Nova Scotian? Does it have to be headquartered in the province? Do the company's owners have to be residents of the province? What are the criteria?

ANSWER: There is no requirement for a company doing business in Nova Scotia to be headquartered in the Province of Nova Scotia or for the company owners to be residents of the province. Companies do have to meet certain bidding requirements through financial bonding and safety program protocols to be considered eligible to bid and have NS Workers Compensation Board coverage for their employees while employed in this province. A Nova Scotia company is one registered in the NS Joint Registry of Companies.

[Page 5000]

15. We've been receiving many concerns about road and driving safety from our constituents. One constituent has raised concerns about the type of road paint now being used by public works. It is fading too quickly to be reliable for drivers. Can the minister comment on what, if any, work is being done with the federal government to fix this problem? Do we know what effect it has on the environment to continuously paint the same lines every year? Are we looking at more environmentally friendly alternatives?

ANSWER: In accordance with federal regulations, the Department switched from oil-based paint products to latex-based products. While the latex-based products are more environmentally-friendly, they do not have the same durability and longevity. The conditions this winter resulted in a high volume of salting, sanding, and plowing which impacts pavement markings containing reflective products, such as glass beads, that are used to provide better reflectivity during periods of darkness and poor visibility.

Line painting occurs annually and 100-series highways are prioritized, followed by higher volume trunks and route. Department crews will begin refreshing markings once temperatures and drying conditions are suitable for application.

16. Others have raised major safety concerns, namely that there has seemingly been an increase in fatal car crashes and hit-and-run incidents. What road safety measures is this government taking?

ANSWER: The department tracks data of all fatal road collisions and when examining the last five years the highest number of fatalities caused by collisions occurred in 2024 and 2025 (96 fatalities in 88 collisions and 86 fatalities in 76 collisions respectively). Data also shows that the number of fatal collisions in the last three years (2023-25) is in a downward trend when compared to the previous two years (2021-2022) and so far this year (March) the trend is lower still with ten fatal collisions as compared with 17 in 2024 and 16 in 2025 for the same time period.

Any collision on the highways of our province is one too many and we strive to support and encourage improved highway safety, it is paramount in all the work we do, whether that be through motor vehicle regulations, highway and bridge design and construction, and our ongoing highway maintenance.

The department is actively working on new traffic enforcement measures to enhance road safety, and the provincial government recently passed the Traffic Safety Act (TSA) which will modernize the rules of the road and improve safety for all road users, including vulnerable road users. A vulnerable road user will now be formally defined in legislation and may therefore be treated by the courts as an aggravating factor when determining the length of a suspension and/or the amount of a fine at sentencing. Proclamation and implementation of the Traffic Safety Act is expected later this year. More details about the Traffic Safety Act will be shared on novascotia.ca/tsa in the coming weeks.

[Page 5001]

The department is also committed to implementing Mandatory Entry-level Training (MELT) following proclamation of the Traffic Safety Act. MELT establishes a minimum standard for commercial truck driver training and has been implemented in most jurisdictions across Canada. Nova Scotia's MELT program is tracking to be more robust than the current national minimum, requiring increased training hours behind the wheel. Implementation of MELT is an important step toward improving safety for truck drivers and all other road users.

We continue to improve the safety of infrastructure with the additional twinning underway on highways 101, 104, 107, and 103, the construction of active transportation facilities in Antigonish, a new roundabout corridor on Kings Road in Sydney River, and many other projects. Twinning projects improve safety by separating vehicles traveling in opposite directions and by providing a more recoverable roadside so that the occupants of vehicles leaving the roadway have a better chance of survival.

We do not track hit-and-run collisions, although police agencies may record those that are reported to them.

QUESTION NO. 16

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

1. This budget eliminates grant funding for eight items - including bicycle safety initiatives and the Road Builders Association. Can the minister explain how he chose these eight items?

ANSWER: As noted during Committee of the Whole on Supply, we looked for grant funding that did not affect services.

2. Another four items were initially going to see their grant funding reduced by 20 percent. How did the Minister decide which items to reduce by 20 percent and which ones to fully eliminate funding for?

a) Can the minister walk us through the process of reversing these cuts?

b) Hindsight is 20/20. Can the minister tell us what steps could have been taken before the budget was tabled to prevent the situation we're currently in, where cuts were announced and then reversed?

[Page 5002]

ANSWER: As noted during Committee of the Whole on Supply, we heard from Nova Scotians and their concerns regarding some of the cuts and the decision was made to reinstate some of those grants where appropriate.

3. The Blue Route is a province-wide project to create a continuous network of cycling infrastructure. Will the elimination of grant funding for this initiative negatively impact the expansion of this route?

ANSWER: As noted during Committee of the Whole on Supply, the Blue Route funding was a discretionary grant that went to marketing amongst cycling groups. The funding wasn't for pavement. We remain committed to the Blue Route network opening across the province and will support it when areas of the route connect with roadways.

4. Two years ago, an emergency room doctor warned that the number of cyclists seriously injured by motor vehicles was increasing. Can the Minister of Public Works tell us how many cyclist-related injuries occurred last year?

a) Can the minister explain how this factored into his decision to eliminate grant funding for bicycle safety initiatives?

ANSWER: There were 101 collisions involving bicycles in 2025. One of these collisions was a fatality that did not involve any other vehicles.

Any collision on the highways of our province is one too many and we strive to support and encourage improved highway safety, it is paramount in all the work we do, whether that be through motor vehicle regulations, highway and bridge design and construction, and our ongoing maintenance.

The department is actively working on new traffic enforcement measures to enhance road safety, and the provincial government recently passed the Traffic Safety Act (TSA) which will modernize the rules of the road and improve safety for all road users, including vulnerable road users. A vulnerable road user will now be formally defined in legislation and may therefore be treated by the courts as an aggravating factor when determining the length of a suspension and/or the amount of a fine at sentencing. Proclamation and implementation of the Traffic Safety Act is expected later this year. More details about the Traffic Safety Act will be shared on novascotia.ca/tsa in the coming weeks.

5. Statistics Canada reports that only 27 percent of roads and 25 percent of highways in Nova Scotia were in good or very good condition. Can the minister explain why so few of our roads are in good condition?

[Page 5003]

ANSWER: Approximately $2.5 billion has been spent over 5 years for improvements to our roadways. Our $465 million Highway Program includes $60 million for highway and road improvement and safety provincewide.

6. Did the minister consult with the Road Builders Association before eliminating this grant funding?

ANSWER: Reductions needed to be made across government which included some hard decisions. It would not be typical practice to include external associations in the internal discussion regarding the amount of funding that will be available. We remain committed to working with our partners and will continue to look for ways to work together.

7. Last month, Dalhousie's faculty of engineering put out a news story about concrete bridges. It explained that decades ago, bridges were built in the province with prestressed concrete, and now those bridges are starting to show their age. How will the elimination of Dalhousie's concrete bridge research impact our understanding of what is needed to keep these bridges safe?

ANSWER: The Department remains committed to bridge safety and renewal, with $60 million dedicated to the capital bridge program this fiscal year. The Dalhousie Research project was created to provide engineers with valuable information to augment understanding of concrete prestressed girder behavior in Nova Scotia. Engineers and inspectors continue to monitor each of the more than 4,100 bridges, including prestressed girder bridges, through visual inspection. Bridges identified as having issues have weight limits or restrictions in place until repairs can be made. Through regular inspections and proactive maintenance, we are ensuring that Nova Scotians can travel safely and confidently across our province's infrastructure.

8. How much was allocated through the Nova Scotia Transit Research Incentive Program last year? Can the minister provide a breakdown of recipients - how many were municipalities? How many were non-profit transit organizations?

ANSWER: In 2025-26, Link Nova Scotia (Link NS) received and approved five Nova Scotia Trip Research Incentive Program applications. The five grant recipients were Victoria County Transit, Sou'West Nova Transit, Lunenburg County Wheels, Antigonish Community Transit Society and the Town of Digby. Total funding through the program was $75,400.

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9. Halifax ranks third worst in the country for traffic congestion, and in our rural areas, public transit options are few and far between. Can the minister explain why, in this context, he thought it was a good idea to eliminate funding for the Nova Scotia Transit Research Incentive Program?

ANSWER: Community Transportation services enable Nova Scotians to access employment, health care, education, and recreational opportunities, strengthening transportation options in less densely populated areas of the province. Investment in these services is supported through multiple programs, along with the Provincial Community Transportation team's budget.

In fiscal year 2026-27, the Nova Scotia Transit Research Incentive Program (NSTRIP) has been discontinued to prioritize funding for the programs that directly support citizen access and help offset the operating costs of the 23 service providers and eight fixed-route operators located outside the Halifax Regional Municipality.

NSTRIP previously provided capacity-building support for projects beyond the scope of service providers' day-to-day operations within mostly non-congested rural areas. These research initiatives enabled operators to explore opportunities to enhance and modernize service delivery.

To help mitigate the impact of this change, funding is available through Strategic Community Transit Investments. This is not a grant program, but a budget allocation used to support initiatives identified by Provincial Community Transportation staff. Similar to NSTRIP, Strategic Community Transit Investments supports projects that improve transit options or pilot new initiatives and ideas.

Within the Halifax region, Link Nova Scotia is advancing projects to improve the transportation system. Long-term, Highway 102 is in preliminary design; we are conducting a core street review for the Halifax Peninsula; and we are working on a passenger rail feasibility study. In the short-term, we are conducting corridor reviews and determining which areas are best suited for adaptive signal technology.

10. Grants for strategic community transit investments, the community transportation assistance program, and the Public Transit Assistance Program are all being cut by 20 percent. How did the minister assess the overall impact of this combination of cuts? Does he anticipate that the development of public transit options in rural areas will be slower to develop as a result?

ANSWER:These grants have been restored to 2025-26 levels, so we do not anticipate any issues.

QUESTION NO. 17

[Page 5005]

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

1. Last year, this government passed legislation granting the Minister of Public Works the authority to override municipal decisions on transportation matters. a few months later, in July, the Premier mused about possibly using that new power to overrule a bike lane in Halifax. Was the minister the one who proposed using this new power in this specific case? Or did the Premier advise the minister that this is what he wanted the minister to do?

ANSWER: In August 2025, the Province introduced the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), which outlines a vision for regional transportation and provides a foundation for working with partners to address the opportunities and challenges caused by growth and development.

Using a comprehensive, system-level approach, the Plan proposes 39 actions to transform transportation over the next 20 years. These recommendations include targeted infrastructure interventions, increased transportation options, better goods movement, integration of new technologies, more efficient land use and transportation planning, and the adoption of evaluation metrics.

Prior to the RTP's release, the Province introduced legislation to support initiation and implementation of the Plan. During the Spring 2025 legislative session, the Joint Regional Transportation Agency Act was amended, creating Link Nova Scotia and broadening the scope of the agency.

The amendments moved authority for the agency directly to the Minister of Public Works and created the legislative abilities for the organization to lead and fund projects, own and operate transportation services, and contribute to projects province-wide, as opposed to the Halifax Region only.

Most notably, the amendments established the Minister's ability to order a municipality to do anything required by the Act, including building, changing, reconfiguring, or removing transportation infrastructure to ensure the safe, efficient, and coordinated movement of people and goods.

To ensure clarity, fairness, and accountability, regulations for Bill 24 were developed and approved in January 2026. These regulations, which must be considered when using Ministerial order-making powers under the Act, can be found in the "Governance" section of Link Nova Scotia's website.

With respect to municipal active transportation projects, Government's Response to the RTP (also released in August 2025), included direction to conduct a Review of Active Transportation Projects to Preserve Existing Road Capacity.

[Page 5006]

Working with HRM staff, Link Nova Scotia developed a process to guide how these reviews would be carried out and define the types of active transportation projects that should be subject to additional examination. Once approved, the AT review process was put into immediate effect and can also be found online.

2. Did the minister speak to anyone from the HRM council on this matter?

ANSWER: The department values the historical relationship between the province and all of its municipalities. Conversations and collaborative work between HRM and Link Nova Scotia staff take place on many matters, including the development of a process to review AT projects to preserve existing road capacity.

3. Have there been other instances where the minister or the Premier have contemplated using the new powers that Bill No. 24 introduced?

ANSWER: We don't anticipate needing to use this provision often, or even at all. Our relationships with municipalities and other core stakeholders have been positive and collaborative. However, we need to know that important projects can move forward as we work to unlock Nova Scotia's full potential.

4. How many municipalities did the minister consult with on the budget before it was tabled?

ANSWER: Reductions needed to be made across government which included some hard decisions. The historical working relationship between the province and its municipalities is valued and benefits Nova Scotians daily. It would not be typical practice to include municipalities in the internal discussion regarding the amount of funding that will be available. We remain committed to working with our partners and will continue to look for ways to work together.

5. Municipalities have raised significant concerns about their budgets not keeping pace with infrastructure costs. How often does the Minister of Public Works meet with the Minister of Municipal Affairs to discuss how the two departments should be working together to support thriving communities?

ANSWER: Discussions across DPW and OMA are continuous and the departments share a common Deputy Minister. Nova Scotia is navigating challenging times. When we can do more, we will do more.

[Page 5007]

QUESTION NO. 18

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

1. The minister's department spent $20,000 on a logo change when the JRTA was rebranded as Link Nova Scotia. Does the Minister think this was good value for money?

ANSWER: To clarify, the cost to develop the Link NS brand was $16,350. Applicable procurement standards were followed, and we are satisfied with the services rendered by the local vendor we engaged.

2. The budget for Link Nova Scotia is more than doubling from $2.3 million to $5.1 million. What does the minister have planned for Link Nova Scotia this year?

ANSWER: In 2025-26, Link NS received Treasury and Policy Board approval to hire up to 12 permanent staff as the Agency shifted from planning to implementing the Regional Transportation Plan. Last year, 11 positions were filled, so most of the 2026-27 budget increase is attributed to salaries and operating costs. The Province also allotted $1 million in Link NS's 2026-27 budget as grant funding for the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) to invest in Adaptive Signal Technology on key corridors.

3. In August, the minister released the Regional Transportation Plan for Halifax and the surrounding areas. What concrete steps will this budget fund in terms of what the report found?

ANSWER: The main focus of Link NS's 2026-27 budget is employee wages and grant funding issued to HRM for Adaptive Signal Technology investments. Progress on the actions outlined in the Regional Transportation Plan will be supported by current budgets at DPW and Halifax Harbour Bridges, or through approvals by Treasury and Policy Board. This includes:

[Page 5008]

4. The report found that an inter-municipal bus service could benefit Nova Scotians and help ease traffic congestion. But we're seeing many cuts to public transportation in this budget. When does the minister anticipate the creation or enhancement of an inter-municipal bus service within and around the HRM?

ANSWER: Link NS prepared a Request For Information (RFI) for inter-municipal transit service which closes May 20, 2026. There is no monetary ask associated with the RFI, however; it will help us understand what services or solutions exist in the market, identify capable vendors, and learn about potential approaches, delivery models or technologies to inform the scope and structure of a future procurement.

5. The report also recognized the importance of having bus rapid transit routes. Is there money in this budget to support the creation of these routes? If so, can the minister point me to the budget line?

6. When does the minister expect to see bus rapid transit routes operational in HRM?

ANSWER: While there is not funding in the 2026-27 budget, the Province, HRM, and the municipality of East Hants are actively pursuing federal transit funding, which is critical for advancing efforts to establish rapid transit. We have submitted an integrated regional plan and are eagerly awaiting a response from the federal government.

Additionally, the Province is assisting HRM in acquiring land along the Robie Street corridor, conducting a passenger rail feasibility study for the Halifax region, and coordinating a review of the Halifax Peninsula Core Streets. All these actions support a future rapid transit network.

QUESTION NO. 19

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

[Page 5009]

1. Some have cautioned that removing the bridge tolls will lead to increased traffic congestion. Has the department seen an increase in traffic? Can the minister table any information that shows the traffic effects we've seen?

ANSWER: As noted during Committee of the Whole on Supply, in the six months since the removal of the tolls, congestion has improved and there has been a 40 percent reduction in collisions across the bridge spans. This has enabled us to safely increase the speed limit on the bridge spans. The harbour bridges are one part of the region's transportation network, and it is encouraging to see such a positive change in a short period of time.

2. We know that the McKay Bridge will need to be replaced in the coming years. Can the minister tell us where the province is currently at in that process? Is the department looking at what land is needed? Is there a timeline on when things will start moving forward?

ANSWER: HHB has been investigating the future of the Mackay Bridge, and several studies have been completed to explore options including rehabilitation, replacement, and the feasibility of a tunnel.

A committee has been established to determine next steps for the bridge and includes HHB, Link NS, DPW, and HRM.

3. The Auditor General's follow-up report to the 2019 Audit of Selection and Quality Management of Bridge Projects in Central and Western Districts found that as of Spring 2024, six of seven recommendations had not yet been completed. Can the minister confirm where these recommendations now stand? Have all been completed, or are some still outstanding?

ANSWER: Upon receipt of the Auditor General's evaluation, the department worked diligently on each of the recommendations and at this time, all recommendations have been met. Work on these items will continue as systems are maintained and improved, as necessary.

4. The Auditor General raised concerns that this department has not taken steps to complete bridge inspections as required. Can the minister outline the specific actions the department has taken to improve the completion of bridge inspections?

ANSWER: As part of the work related to the OAG evaluation, DPW has developed and implemented a Structures Asset Management System (SAMS) to maintain information relating to provincial structure assets. This system includes a dashboard to report status of all inspections and is monitored by an Asset Manager. The Asset Manager can advise and direct field staff to complete any inspections that are indicated in the system as incomplete.

[Page 5010]

5. Can the minister table a list of all the bridges that either need to be repaired or replaced?

ANSWER: Apart from newly constructed infrastructure most infrastructure can need repairs - from minor to full replacement. Any repairs are identified and prioritized for work based on impact to safety, the structure itself, traffic volumes, complexity, and costs. As a result, it is difficult to supply the requested list.

6. What is Public Works doing to make sure warranty repairs are covered by the responsible parties and not Nova Scotian taxpayers?

ANSWER: As part of our tendering/contract process, DPW retains surety from the Contractor. This ensures that DPW can carry out repairs through the named contractor or hire other parties to complete warranty items.

QUESTION NO. 20

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

1. Now that we know the location of the Reserve Mines School (the new Tompkins), what are the expected timelines?

2. If a property is damaged by blasting, will the Province compensate?

ANSWER: The current planned Substantial Performance (SP) for the Reserve Mines school is December 2029. This timeline is based on the anticipated award date and therefore remains subject to change, as the project is still in the design phase and a final construction schedule has not yet been confirmed.

Contractors are required to follow all applicable regulations and industry standards to mitigate the potential impacts from blasting, including pre-condition surveys and monitoring. If property damage occurs and is attributable to construction activities, it would be addressed through the contractor's insurance and claims process, consistent with standard practice.

3. How many schools currently have shovels in the ground, and can the minister table a list of their locations?

[Page 5011]

ANSWER: There are currently four schools that have shovels in the ground:

4. Can the minister confirm if any necessary land has been purchased for the new and replacement schools announced in fall 2024?

ANSWER: The projects announced in Fall 2024 are either still in the site selection process or are awaiting direction from EECD to begin the site selection process.

5. Are there plans to expand the schools using modular or portables to ensure that children and staff are part of the school?

ANSWER: EECD works very closely with the Regional Centres for Education/CSAP to monitor current and projected enrolment. Many schools across the province are experiencing enrolment growth as our province's population grows. As enrolment approaches capacity in any school, EECD works with the regional centre/CSAP to implement solutions to ensure that all students have an appropriate learning environment. Enrolment growth can be managed by using portable classrooms in the short term with modular classroom annexes and new schools being the medium and long-term options.

6. Does the department still work in consultation with Centres for Education to determine if roads are safe for travelling? If yes, why doesn't the policy consider sidewalks and bus stop conditions?

ANSWER: The Regional Centres for Education/CSAP determine whether roads are safe for travelling.

QUESTION NO. 21

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works)

[Page 5012]

1. The liability for Boat Harbour continues to increase, reaching $405 million in 2025. On January 24, 2025, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada released its Decision Statement for the Boat Harbour remediation project. I'm wondering if the minister can provide an update here. Is the minister still reviewing this decision statement?

a) When does the minister expect remediation work at Boat Harbour to begin?

ANSWER: As you have noted, IMC issued its Decision Statement approving the Project on January 24, 2025, which I have reviewed. The Federal Minister concluded that the Project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. However, after the approval was issued, there was an application filed by Pictou Landing First Nation for a Judicial Review of the decision. This matter is currently before the federal court. The start of remediation is dependent upon the court's decision, the timing of which is uncertain.

Given on May 12, 2026 (Pursuant to Rule 30)

QUESTION NO. 34

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. In Nova Scotia, individuals of African descent make up 2.3 percent of the total population - yet in Halifax they make up nearly 16 percent of those identified as being actively homeless in Halifax. What is the minister doing to address this overrepresentation?

ANSWER: African Nova Scotian Affairs recognizes that housing and homelessness are key concerns raised by communities. While homelessness data is primarily collected at the municipal level, we continue to collaborate and work across government to advise on these, when appropriate.

2. Can the minister speak to any efforts being taken by this department to ensure that homeless supports are culturally appropriate given the overrepresentation of African Nova Scotians?

ANSWER: ANSA works collaboratively across government to provide input on programs and services so that they are informed by the lived experiences of African Nova Scotian and people of African descent communities. This includes providing advice on policy and program design, supporting engagement with communities, and promoting culturally appropriate approaches in service delivery.

[Page 5013]

3. Is the minister tracking the rate of core housing need experienced by African Nova Scotian households?

ANSWER: Core housing need data is reported through national sources such as Statistics Canada. Based on available data, including the African Nova Scotian Prosperity and Well-Being Index, African Nova Scotian and people of African descent households experience higher rates of core housing need, nearly double the provincial average. ANSA continues to work across government to provide input on disparities and that they are considered in policy and program development.

4. It is not only homelessness where African Nova Scotians are overrepresented. African Nova Scotians experience a significantly higher rate of core housing need compared to the general population in Nova Scotia, with roughly double the percentage of Black households considered to be in core housing need compared to the overall provincial average. Where in this budget is the government investing to improve housing outcomes for Black Nova Scotians?

ANSWER: Investments are made across multiple departments. ANSA's role is to provide advise on the investments so they can reflect community priorities and are informed by an equity lens.

5. How is the minister measuring success on the goal to improve African Nova Scotians access to adequate housing? Are there program-specific metrics to measure success or is there an ongoing overall assessment being undertaken?

ANSWER: Progress is assessed through ongoing program evaluation and cross-government collaboration, with a focus on improving long-term outcomes for African Nova Scotian communities and people of African descent.

QUESTION NO. 35

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. How much did the department spend on the Land Titles Initiative in the last fiscal year?

ANSWER: The department spent $1,254,379.00 on the Land Titles Initiative in the last fiscal year.

[Page 5014]

2. How many land titles were established in the last fiscal year?

ANSWER: Since the program began, 439 parcels have been land registered, including 65 Certificates of Title issued since June 2018. A total of 25 certificates of title were established in the last fiscal year.

3. Can the minister table a list of these land titles broken down by community?

ANSWER: The breakdown by community is as follows:

North Preston: 113

East Preston: 163

Cherry Brook: 20

Lake Loon: 21

Westphal: 13

Lincolnville: 24

Sunnyville: 85

4. Under the Land Titles Initiative, how many community navigators were employed by the department in the last fiscal year? Will this remain steady in the current fiscal year?

ANSWER: In the last fiscal year, the department had three community navigators, including temporary coverage for a leave.

The current number of community navigators remains three, and staffing levels are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure program needs are met.

QUESTION NO. 36

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. Dr. Ingrid Waldron has recently completed a study titled Building Capacity Around Climate Change Preparedness in African Nova Scotian Communities. She summarized the findings in a policy brief for elected officials, as I am sure the minister is aware. Recommendations in the policy brief outlined a number of areas where government could become more involved to help African Nova Scotian communities adjust to the increasing risks of forest fires and rising sea levels. Has the minister met with Dr. Waldron on what this government could be doing better on these issues?

[Page 5015]

a) Can the minister outline what steps have been taken to address the climate related concerns of these communities?

2. In Upper Hammonds Plains, the African Nova Scotian community is very concerned that we might be heading into another forest fire season without improvements to the water flow of fire hydrants and without emergency exit plans being in place. Has the minister been working with the Department of Emergency Management to ensure that these major issues are addressed before spring?

3. The Environmental Racism Panel was appointed in June 2023. Recommendations from this panel were due by the end of 2023. Can the minister confirm if this government has received those recommendations?

4. Why has there been such a delay in the report and recommendations from this panel being released?

5. When will the recommendations be made public? Can the minister provide an exact date?

ANSWER: ANSA recognizes the importance of addressing environmental racism and climate-related impacts on African Nova Scotian communities. The department continues to work collaboratively with relevant departments and stakeholders to support community resilience and ensure that concerns are reflected in government responses.

Updates on specific panels and reports are being led by the responsible departments.

QUESTION NO. 37

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. Research indicates that African Nova Scotians generally experience lower health outcomes compared to the wider population in Nova Scotia. Is the minister working with the Department of Health and Wellness to track this issue? Are we seeing any fluctuations in trends in recent years? Are things getting better, worse, or staying steady?

2. A Health Equity Framework was released in our province in July 2023 as part of the Equity and Anti-Racism Strategy. One of the action items in this framework was to engage Black and African Nova Scotian communities to identify and address anti-Black racism in specific health system facilities. What role has the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs played in the development and implementation of these changes?

[Page 5016]

3. Another key part of the Health Equity Framework was to engage historic African Nova Scotian communities to improve access to mental health and addictions support in their communities. We've heard that mental health care in this province for Black people, especially in rural areas, is still lacking. Has the minister reviewed the recommendations made in the Desmond report?

a) How is the minister advocating for greater, culturally appropriate mental health services for African Nova Scotians across the province?

ANSWER: ANSA works across government and with community partners to support culturally appropriate and accessible health services for African Nova Scotians and people of African descent.

This includes targeted investments in community-led initiatives, such as culturally relevant mental health programming, a toll-free support line, and outreach sessions in rural communities. ANSA is also supporting the development of Mental Health First Aid training tailored to African Nova Scotian communities and exploring Afrocentric approaches to mental health training in partnership with national organizations.

In addition, ANSA is supporting coordinated, community-driven responses to issues such as gender-based and sexual violence through partnerships with trusted organizations.

This work is grounded in collaboration, community expertise, and a focus on improving access and outcomes over time.

QUESTION NO. 38

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. African Nova Scotians and Indigenous Blacks, who descend from free and enslaved Black Planters, Black Loyalists, Black Refugees, Maroons, and other Black people who inhabited the original 52 land-based Black communities in Nova Scotia are undeniably a distinct people who deserve recognition as such. Does the minister agree?

ANSWER: African Nova Scotians have a longstanding history in this province. Our focus as a government is on recognizing that history, addressing systemic inequities, and supporting African Nova Scotian communities and people of African descent.

QUESTION NO. 39

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

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To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. There are a number of programs and initiatives in Nova Scotia that help recruit African Nova Scotians into a variety of careers. These include apprenticeship programs, summer jobs, and career services. Can the minister speak to whether we are seeing any progress?

2. Can the minister speak to whether these programs are addressing the problem of African Nova Scotians having a higher unemployment rate than the overall population of Nova Scotia? How much progress has been made?

3. There has been a persistent income gap between African Nova Scotians and the broader population of Nova Scotia. What actions has this government taken to address this problem? How is progress on this issue being tracked?

ANSWER: Government continues to support programs that promote employment, skills development, and economic participation. ANSA works across departments to provide advice on programs so that they reflect the needs of African Nova Scotian communities and people of African descent.

This includes, for example, partnerships such as PREP Academy, which creates practical pathways into the skilled trades through collaboration between government and community partners.

QUESTION NO. 40

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. Is there money in the budget for the African Nova Scotian Decade for People of African Descent Coalition? Can the minister point me to where in the budget this funding is and how much there is?

2. Does the department plan to continue the funding on a longer-term basis?

ANSWER: Funding for initiatives related to the International Decade for People of African Descent is allocated through the ANSA budget. In the current fiscal year, $80,000 has been identified to support related activities.

ANSA remains committed to advancing the priorities of the International Decade for People of African Descent through its programs and partnerships.

QUESTION NO. 41

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By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. Funding from this government in 2023 was aimed at ensuring the long-term success of the Africville Museum. Is there any continued funding for the Africville Heritage Trust in this budget? Can the minister point me to where this funding exists in the budget?

2. Can the minister outline what, if any, conversations are being had within the department about reparations for Africville?

ANSWER: Funding related to the Africville Museum is administered through the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. Questions regarding specific funding decisions would be best directed to that department.

African Nova Scotian Affairs continues to work collaboratively with partners to support recognition of Africville's history and legacy.

Governments around the world are taking different approaches to addressing historical injustices. Our focus here is on working with communities to support recognition, address systemic inequities, and deliver meaningful outcomes. That includes the work we are doing through initiatives like the Land Titles Initiative, community partnerships, and targeted investments.

QUESTION NO. 42

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. In a 2023 letter to this department, the African Nova Scotian Road to Economic Prosperity's Advisory Council encouraged this government to take action to allow Community Benefit Agreements through legislation. These agreements would allow our communities to negotiate things like affordable housing, employment, and environmental protection in development processes. Has the minister advised her government that this would benefit African Nova Scotian communities?

2. Over a year ago, the HRM mayor wrote to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing formally requesting legislative amendments to allow the municipality to develop, enter, and enforce Community Benefit Agreements, noting that "many of our historic African Nova Scotian communities are under severe development pressure" and that this Province previously committed to "ensuring these communities survive". Did the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs also receive a copy of this letter? If so, did the minister respond?

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3. What is this government's position on Community Benefit Agreements? Does the minister believe that these agreements could be valuable? Is this something the minister plans to work on with the Department of Municipal Affairs?

ANSWER: Community Benefit Agreements are not led by African Nova Scotian Affairs. They are typically considered and implemented by the lead departments responsible for specific projects, such as Public Works, Municipal Affairs and Housing, or Labour, Skills and Immigration.

ANSA's role is to work across government to ensure that community perspectives, including those of African Nova Scotian communities, are reflected in these discussions.

QUESTION NO. 43

By: Suzy Hansen (Halifax Needham)

To: Hon. Twila Grosse (Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs)

1. Residents of Upper Hammonds Plains have been paying for fire protection in their taxes for decades, but their fire hydrants have been unusable because of low water pressure in the area. Residents are now calling for reparations to address this case of systemic racism. Has the minister met with residents to hear their concerns?

a) Can the minister provide an update on any actions this department or government has taken to address the concerns of these residents?

ANSWER: Government recognizes the concerns raised by residents. ANSA continues to work with partners across government to ensure these concerns are understood and addressed through appropriate channels.

Given on June 25, 2026 (Pursuant to Rule 30)

QUESTION NO. 53

By: Kendra Coombes (Cape Breton Centre-Whitney Pier)

To: Hon. Fred Tilley (Minister of Public Works) and Kyle MacQuarrie (Inverness)

Justin Usher, a fire chief in Inverness County, is raising serious concerns about a 3.3-kilometre gravel section of Marble Mountain Road that sits in the middle of an otherwise paved roadway. This stretch provides access to a local fire hall, community shelter, and the surrounding area of Marble Mountain, Malagawatch, and Big Harbour Island.

This section has been a problem for decades. The public regularly reports potholes, washouts, culvert failures, and other issues. The poor condition of this stretch of road is making it more difficult for the fire hall to fundraise and host community events, and more seriously, impacts emergency response times for firefighters and mutual aid partners who need accesss to the surrounding community. While Public Works is proposing to restructure the gravel, there are no plans to pave it, and Justin is having trouble getting answers from the department or his MLA.

Can the minister explain how roads like this are assessed and prioritized for repairs, especially when they play a role in emergency response and essential community services?

And when can Justin and the community expect this stretch to become useable and safe for emergency responders and the public?

ANSWER: DPW is aware of the section of Marble Mountain Road referenced in your correspondence and continues to monitor and maintain the roadway as part of its provincial highway network. Significant upgrades are planned to address a problematic area on this road, including the replacement and upgrade of a large cross culvert, and gravel resurfacing. This work is intended to improve the long-term function and resiliency of the roadway especially during major flooding events.

Infrastructure funding is allocated across Nova Scotia based on a range of considerations, including, but not limited to, asset condition, operational requirements and safety considerations. These factors are evaluated province-wide to determine project priorities.

DPW continues to monitor and maintain its roadway network to support the safe and efficient movement of residents, visitors, goods, and emergency services. While DPW maintains an extensive network of gravel roads, it is not departmental practice to pave gravel roads.

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