| TABLE OF CONTENTS | PAGE | |||
| PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS: | ||||
| Transport. & Pub. Wks. - Hants East: Uniacke Mines Rd. - Repair, | ||||
| Mr. John MacDonell | 5171 | |||
| Educ. - Pictou Co.: School Closures - Oppose, Ms. E. O'Connell | 5172 | |||
| Transport. & Pub. Wks. - Hants Co.:Walker Rd. - Repair, | ||||
| Mr. John MacDonell | 5172 | |||
| STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS: | ||||
| Fin. - Atlantic Lottery Corp.: Nova Scotia - Withdraw, Hon. D. Downe | 5172 | |||
| GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION: | ||||
| Res. 2408, Status of Women - Rebels With A Cause: Award Winners/ | ||||
| Elizabeth Fry Society - Congrats., Hon. F. Cosman | 5175 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5176 | |||
| Res. 2409, Agric. - Farmers (Outstanding Young [Atl.]): McCurdys & | ||||
| Weatherbys (Truro) - Congrats., Hon. E. Lorraine | 5176 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5176 | |||
| Res. 2410, Agric.: Gerald Sarsfield (Canning), Death of - | ||||
| Contribution Recognize/Condolences Send, Hon. E. Lorraine | 5176 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5177 | |||
| NOTICES OF MOTION: | ||||
| Res. 2411, Econ. Dev. & Tourism - Shipbuilding Policy (Natl.): | ||||
| Shipyard Workers - Campaign Endorse, Mr. R. Chisholm | 5177 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5178 | |||
| Res. 2412, Health - Autistic Children: SSENSE Prog. - Support, | ||||
| Mr. G. Moody | 5178 | |||
| Res. 2413, Educ. - Acadia Univ.: Irving Family Gift (Research Centre) - | ||||
| Thank, Hon. R. Harrison | 5179 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5179 | |||
| Res. 2414, Educ.: Judique Commun. School - Support, Ms. E. O'Connell | 5180 | |||
| Res. 2415, Transport. & Pub. Wks. - Roads: Disrepair - | ||||
| Funding (Gov't. [Can.]) Lobby, Mr. B. Taylor | 5180 | |||
| Res. 2416, Econ. Dev. & Tourism - Bras d'Or Consumers Co-op: | ||||
| New Store - Congrats., Ms. Helen MacDonald | 5181 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5181 | |||
| Res. 2417, Econ. Dev. & Tourism: Business Funding - Expand, | ||||
| Mr. G. Balser | 5182 | |||
| Res. 2418, President Nelson Mandela (SAR) - World Peace: | ||||
| Contribution - Acknowledge, Mr. G. Fogarty | 5182 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5183 | |||
| Res. 2419, Status of Women: Rebels With A Cause (Elizabeth Fry | ||||
| Soc. Awards) - Congrats., Ms. Y. Atwell | 5183 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5184 | |||
| Res. 2420, Educ. - N.S. Commun. College: Lun. Campus (30th Anniv.) - | ||||
| Congrats., Mr. M. Baker | 5184 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5184 | |||
| Res. 2421, Environ. - Plutonium Surplus (Russian): Import (N.S.) - | ||||
| Reject, Mr. D. Chard | 5185 | |||
| Res. 2422, Econ. Dev. & Tourism - Truro CC: Ken Eisner | ||||
| (Business Person of the Year) - Congrats., Mr. J. Muir | 5185 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5186 | |||
| Res. 2423, Health - Doctors: Recruitment/Retention (Commun.-Based) - | ||||
| Prioritize, Mr. John Deveau | 5186 | |||
| Res. 2424, Sports - Hockey (NSSAF "AA"): Westville HS Mavericks - | ||||
| Champs Congrats., Mr. J. DeWolfe | 5187 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5187 | |||
| Res. 2425, Transport. & Pub. Wks. - Hwy. Nos. 102 & 103 (Junction): | ||||
| Lane Expansion Completion - Delay Explain, Mr. W. Estabrooks | 5188 | |||
| Res. 2426, Justice - Rev. Lionel Moriah (HRM Police Chaplain): | ||||
| Service - Applaud, Mr. M. Scott | 5188 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5189 | |||
| Res. 2427, Econ. Dev. & Tourism - Deaf Persons: Employment | ||||
| Opportunities - Provide, Mr. J. Pye | 5189 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5189 | |||
| Res. 2428, Sports - Minor Hockey: Success (1998-99) - | ||||
| Contributors Congrats., Mr. M. Baker | 5190 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5190 | |||
| Res. 2429, Transport. & Pub. Wks. - Roads: Potholes - Repair Support, | ||||
| Mr. C. Parker | 5191 | |||
| Res. 2430, DFO - Rec. Fisheries Award: Scott Cook (Wolfville) - | ||||
| Congrats., Mr. N. LeBlanc | 5191 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5192 | |||
| Res. 2431, Econ. Dev. & Tourism - Summit Creative Awards (Advertising) | ||||
| Gold: McArthur, Thompson & Law - Congrats., Mr. G. Balser | 5192 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5193 | |||
| Res. 2432, Agric. - Bras d'Or Growers Co-op: Eddie Rendell & | ||||
| Mark Eyking - Work Congrats., Ms. Helen MacDonald | 5193 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5193 | |||
| Res. 2433, Sports - CCAA (Academic All Canadians): NSAC - | ||||
| Recipients (4) Congrats., Mr. J. Muir | 5193 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5194 | |||
| Res. 2434, Health - Commun. Boards: Authority - Give, Mr. C. Parker | 5194 | |||
| Res. 2435, Sports - Skating (Nat. Jr. Fig.-Tomorrow's Champions): | ||||
| Megan Smith (Thorburn) - Achievement Congrats., Mr. J. DeWolfe | 5195 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5195 | |||
| Res. 2436, RCMP - Citizens on Patrol Groups: Gary McAvoy (Bayside) & | ||||
| John Mitchell (Brookside) - Actions Congrats., Mr. W. Estabrooks | 5196 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5196 | |||
| Res. 2437, RCL (Branch 36) Oxford: Re-opening - Congrats., | ||||
| Mr. M. Scott | 5196 | |||
| Vote - Affirmative | 5197 | |||
| HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 7:46 P.M. | 5197 | |||
| HOUSE RECONVENED AT 9:58 P.M. | 5197 | |||
| CWH REPORTS | 5198 | |||
| TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS: | ||||
| Report of the Chief Electoral Officer (1998), The Speaker | 5198 | |||
| ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Tue., Mar. 30th at 2:00 p.m. | 5198 | |||
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. We will commence the daily routine.
PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants East.
MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition from the residents of Uniacke Mines Road. The petition reads, "The Uniacke Mines Road has not received adequate maintenance to either the road bed, or ditches, or culverts over the past 15 years. Consequently, the overall condition of the road is now sub-standard, poses a risk to the security of properties against fire, and imparts excessive wear and tear on private vehicles.". There are 103 signatures. I have affixed my own and also the petition is prefaced by a letter from the fire chief for the Uniacke and District Volunteer Fire Department in which he also raises safety concerns.
MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.
The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.
MS. EILEEN O'CONNELL: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition of 221 signatures from residents of Pictou County who are concerned about public-private partnering in the construction of new schools in Pictou County. The operative clause reads, "We, the undersigned, are opposed to the closure of Pictou County's publicly owned, community High Schools and the construction of two amalgamated privately leased (P3) Mega High Schools. (We do support quality schools built and owned, when and where needed, by the taxpayers of Nova Scotia)". I have affixed my signature to the document.
MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.
The honourable member for Hants East.
MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition from the residents of the Walker Road, Hants County. The operative clause reads, "This is a petition for repairs to be done on the Walker Road, Hants Co, Nova Scotia, . . .", and the individuals have concerns of ditching, bridge needs fixing, gravel needed and it is also a safety concern because the posting of the road is the wrong name. There are 129 signatures. I have affixed my signature.
MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS
STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.
HON. DONALD DOWNE: Mr. Speaker, today the government served notice to the other Atlantic Provinces that Nova Scotia will withdraw from the Atlantic Lottery Corporation. This decision comes after more than two years of working tirelessly and in good faith to bring about a new ALC profit-sharing formula, a formula that would be fair to the people of Nova Scotia. Members of this House will recall that the Nova Scotia Auditor General, in 1996, identified inequities in the current profit-sharing formula, inequities that cost Nova Scotia between $4 million to $4.5 million annually.
Mr. Speaker, an amendment to the profit-sharing arrangement, to make it fair, required the unanimous support of all four partner provinces in the Atlantic Lottery Corporation. That unanimous support has not been forthcoming. Now is the time to act, decisively, and in the interests of Nova Scotians.
Nova Scotia will leave the Atlantic Lottery Corporation and establish a new provincial lottery operation. This will ensure that all profits, indeed all benefits, from lottery operations conducted in this province will remain in this province to benefit Nova Scotians. The new lottery operations will be phased in over the next year. The transition will be seamless, with no interruption in services or products. There will be no disruption for those who play the lotteries, nor for the retailers who distribute the products.
Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia worked for two years to resolve this issue with the other Atlantic Provinces. However, it has always been clear that, in order to ensure Nova Scotians get a fair return on lotteries operated in this province, the action we are announcing today was a distinct possibility. Therefore, the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation has conducted feasibility analyses on a Nova Scotia lottery operation. Not only is a Nova Scotia lottery viable, it will be profitable, in every likelihood more profitable for Nova Scotians than the current system.
As all members of this House understand, gaming, in its various forms, has become an important source of revenue for governments across Canada, indeed worldwide. Not everyone supports this revenue source, and that is understandable. Most, however, recognize that these revenues support vital public services in health care, education and elsewhere. That being said, Mr. Speaker, it is essential that the money spent on lotteries and other games in Nova Scotia stays in Nova Scotia to benefit Nova Scotians. That has not been the case under the inequitable profit-sharing arrangement we sought to change. It will be the case under a new Nova Scotian lottery system.
Mr. Speaker, the decision this government made today ensures Nova Scotians are treated fairly. It will bring home to Nova Scotia not only the lottery revenues to which we are entitled, but additional jobs and the economic spin-offs that accompany new jobs. In short, it is in the best interest of Nova Scotians. Thank you. (Applause)
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cape Breton The Lakes.
MS. HELEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, we have heard about this issue for some time now. We realize that there is a need to address the issue and to respond to the Auditor General's Report. This is an important first step and it is a very huge step, I would say. It appears from the statements that have been made over the past number of weeks by the minister that it is based on a feasibility study and that there is a plan for this seamless transition to take place. What I would like to propose is that the public, which has every right to know about this plan, be made privy to it and especially we, as legislators in Nova Scotia, should know exactly what this government is talking about when we talk about taking this big step.
As we know, this is another indication of a move away from regional cooperation and it is one that we want to make sure in all respects is made in the best interest. Nova Scotians do not have a good feeling for gaming in this province and the government's ability to handle that whole issue. As a result I think we really need to be up front and we need to let people know what it is, what is it going to cost this province to set up this operation, what kind of plans we have in place for it. As part of those plans I would hope that we will see that since they are calling for or saying that there would be a need for highly skilled jobs and that there would be indeed a contribution to the economy. I would like to see that a new commission or a new operation, Cape Breton would be considered as being the place to set up that commission or operation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.
MR. GEORGE MOODY: Mr. Speaker, in responding to this announcement I share the Auditor General's concern that we in some fair manner get back what is rightfully ours. My problem is that this government has not been able to negotiate with anybody. It cannot negotiate with the federal government to get a new highway agreement. They cannot get a new agriculture agreement. They cannot get a forestry agreement.
Mr. Speaker, if we are going to be successful in this province, we have to learn to negotiate. We have to learn to get along with others and I think the way of the future is Atlantic Province's cooperation, not dismantling everything that we have.
Mr. Speaker, when the minister talks about the study, he says, it is going to make money. Anybody can run a business and a lottery and make money but the question here is, he says in every likelihood more profits but he does not say if there will be. Now, I would want to see the study where it says that we are not going to spend more money on new jobs and that we are actually going to get a benefit. I do not have faith in this Gaming Corporation. We saw the casino fiasco. We do not have trust in that corporation. We know that it is a clear way that government will have a hand in it. He talks about new jobs. What about the old jobs, the people who are already working?
Mr. Speaker, this is not a good day for Nova Scotians. Any time we break away from Atlantic Province's cooperation, we are not doing the right thing for Nova Scotia. I would ask this government to finally figure out how to negotiate with somebody and sit down and get something for Nova Scotians and work with other people so that we all can benefit. I am worried now about the racing industry because we now do not have Atlantic Province's cooperation and there are other areas that this was set up on a cooperation basis so that we all could save and gain. It made sense. How come in 1999 this government is going to tear something down that is of value and will work?
Mr. Speaker, I would like to see the study as well that says not only will it make a profit, because anybody can run it and make a profit, but I want to see where we are going to run it at less cost than we are paying today so that the taxpayers actually benefit. (Applause)
[7:15 p.m.]
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Community Services.
HON. FRANCENE COSMAN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Elizabeth Fry Society of Halifax held its second annual awards dinner to honour women who have made significant contributions to Nova Scotia as advocates and activists for their communities and stakeholders; and
Whereas the Rebels with a Cause this year included the following notable women: Patricia Doyle-Bedwell, Chair of the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women, lawyer, Transition Year Program Director, educator and activist on behalf of the Mi'kmaq people; Dr. Joan Cummings, advocate for persons with disabilities; Muriel Duckworth, whose lifelong commitment to peace extends to the international arena; Jeanne Fay, legal aid worker and community organizer; Carolann Wright-Parks, activist for anti-racist action; and posthumously, Jo-Anne Mayhew, activist on behalf of women in conflict with the law;
Therefore be it resolved that this House extend its congratulations to the award winners and to the Elizabeth Fry Society for organizing such an excellent event, and that this House extend its best wishes to the Elizabeth Fry Society for its continued success in work on behalf of women in conflict with the law.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask for waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Agriculture and Marketing.
HON. EDWARD LORRAINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas two young farm couples from the Truro area were recently named among the top five outstanding young farmers in Atlantic Canada; and
Whereas Andrew and Maria McCurdy of Old Barns, and Larry and Marsha Weatherby of Lower Harmony illustrate the calibre of young farmers in Nova Scotia; and
Whereas young farmers are the future leaders of our agricultural industry;
Therefore be it resolved that this House recognize the McCurdys and the Weatherbys for their contribution to agriculture and for being recognized as outstanding young farmers in the Atlantic Region.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask for waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable Minister of Agriculture and Marketing.
HON. EDWARD LORRAINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Mr. Gerald Sarsfield of Canning, Kings County, passed away March 12, 1999; and
Whereas Mr. Sarsfield was a long-standing leader in the agricultural community as owner and operator, with his brother Babe Sarsfield, of Sarsfield Brothers Limited in Canning; and
Whereas Mr. Sarsfield exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community so often found in Nova Scotia's agricultural industry;
Therefore be it resolved that this House recognize the valuable contribution made by Gerald Sarsfield to Nova Scotia agriculture and the entire province, and send condolences to his family.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask for waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS
NOTICES OF MOTION
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.
MR. ROBERT CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas shipbuilding and repair have long been an important source of jobs in this province, including spin-offs for many small and medium-sized businesses; and
Whereas 75 per cent of world trade in goods is carried by ships, and a new national shipbuilding policy would give this industry a fair chance to compete; and
Whereas shipyard workers are campaigning for a new national policy to be developed by the federal government and industry stakeholders;
Therefore be it resolved that this House endorses the campaign by shipyard workers for a national shipbuilding policy that gives Canadians the same opportunities as our competitor nations.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to seek waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Kings West.
MR. GEORGE MOODY: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas in January 1997, a program known as SSENSE, Safe Structured Environment for Sensory Experience, was created by Donna Randall and Theresa Milligan in an effort to assist autistic children and their families; and
Whereas once a week, 25 children gather in Halifax with their parents and numerous volunteers to play games, interact through song and share with others who truly understand the unique needs of children with autism; and
Whereas this valuable program has had to cancel its spring session due to a shortage of funds forcing parents to raise $13,000 by June in order to ensure the summer and fall sessions;
Therefore be it resolved that the Liberal Government immediately intervene to ensure the short and long-term continuation of this valuable and necessary early intervention program.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask for waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
I hear a No.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable Minister of Justice.
HON. ROBERT HARRISON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Irving family announced last week its offer to give Acadia University a world-class Environmental Sciences Research Centre, botanical gardens and campus meeting place; and
Whereas this gift to Acadia from the Irving family is a project intended to enhance student life, to serve as a gathering place for students, faculty, staff and community, and to serve as a research centre to explore conservation biology, ecology of wetlands and ecosystem effects of global warming in the Maritime Region; and
Whereas this project will enhance Acadia's national reputation as determined by Maclean's magazine to be the most innovative and best overall undergraduate university in the country;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate and thank the Irving family for their thoughtful, generous and environmentally significant gift to Acadia University and its students, to our community and to our province.
Mr. Speaker, I ask for waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.
MS. EILEEN O'CONNELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution: (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please.
There is much too much noise in the Chamber at the present time, it is very, very difficult to hear the notices of motion.
The honourable member for Halifax Fairview has the floor.
MS. O'CONNELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the community of Judique has appealed to the Strait Regional School Board to maintain its community school; and
Whereas the community has also met with an appeal to the Minister of Education; and
Whereas the minister has promised his decision by Thursday, April 1st;
Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Education show his support for the people of Judique by ensuring that their school be maintained as a P to Grade 8 for a period of no less than five years.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley.
MR. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the majority of public secondary roads in this province from Cape North to Yarmouth, and all points in between, are in such an absolute state of disrepair that motorists' safety is being threatened; and
Whereas for the past six years, the present Minister of Transportation and Public Works and his predecessors have been unable to secure a federal-provincial highway strengthening agreement; and
Whereas the federal government is raking in over $4.2 billion through gasoline taxes annually, including $130 million this fiscal year out of Nova Scotia while the province is generating another $200 million in taxes being paid at the fuel pumps;
Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his Minister of Transportation and Public Works ensure their federal cousins understand the destitute shape of roads in Nova Scotia and lobby all members of the federal Cabinet to ensure funding is earmarked in the 1999-2000 budget for roadwork.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Cape Breton The Lakes.
MS. HELEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Bras d'Or Consumers Co-Op was incorporated in 1937 by a community committed to helping one another; and
Whereas Bras d'Or Co-Op continued to service the membership under sometimes very difficult financial circumstances for 62 years; and
Whereas Bras d'Or Co-Op has accomplished its goal of building a new modern facility to better serve the whole Northside community;
Therefore be it resolved that this House extend congratulations to the board of directors, the staff and the membership on the official opening of their modern new co-op store.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.
MR. GORDON BALSER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Minister of Economic Development and Tourism often appears to have confused his role in providing funds to business with that of Santa; and
Whereas the Department of Economic Development and Tourism is located not at the North Pole but in Halifax, where most things are given at taxpayer expense; and
Whereas unlike Santa, whose generosity is based on a closely scrutinized list, the Minister of Economic Development and Tourism appears to extend his largesse regardless of virtue;
Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Economic Development and Tourism direct his elves to be more diligent when generating lists of those who should be rewarded.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
I hear a No.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Halifax Bedford Basin. (Applause)
MR. GERALD FOGARTY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To my colleagues in the House of Assembly, thank you very much.
Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas President Nelson Mandela of the Republic of South Africa made his farewell speech to the South African Parliament on Friday; and
Whereas Nelson Mandela's true heroism and world leadership is a shining example for people everywhere; and
Whereas his enormous accomplishments in bringing a peaceful end to the evil of apartheid while effecting reconciliation among the peoples of his country offer a beacon of hope to all of us;
Therefore be it resolved that this House join together in acknowledging the contribution of Nelson Mandela to world peace.
Mr. Speaker, I ask for waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Preston.
MS. YVONNE ATWELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on Saturday, March 27th, the Elizabeth Fry Society of mainland Nova Scotia hosted the second annual awards gala, Rebels with a Cause; and
Whereas the society recognizes and acknowledges the contribution of women who have made a difference in this province; and
Whereas the six women honoured - Patricia Doyle-Bedwell, Dr. Joan Cummings, Muriel Duckworth, Jeanne Fay, Carolann Wright-Parks, and the late Jo-Ann Mayhew - made outstanding contributions to their professions and to the community;
Therefore be it resolved that this House congratulate the six Rebels with a Cause for their outstanding achievements.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Lunenburg.
MR. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Lunenburg Campus of the Nova Scotia Community College is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of its founding this month with an Open House; and
Whereas the Lunenburg Campus of the Nova Scotia Community College is an outstanding asset to the local community which has provided rewarding careers to thousands of Nova Scotians; and
Whereas the Lunenburg Campus has an outstanding future in providing education and careers to Nova Scotians;
Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly congratulate the faculty, staff and students of the Lunenburg Campus of the Nova Scotia Community College for their outstanding record of success and wish them the best for a successful future.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Dartmouth South.
MR. DONALD CHARD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas a study by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited suggests that it would be safe to bring weapons-grade plutonium to Canada from Russia by sea; and
Whereas this begs the question of safe for whom; and
Whereas Halifax was identified as a possible port of entry;
Therefore be it resolved that the provincial government steadfastly refuse to entertain any possibility of any port or part of this province being considered a port of entry for such dangerous wastes.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver.
[7:30 p.m.]
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
I hear a No.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill.
MR. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Truro and District Chamber of Commerce held its 109th Annual Meeting and Dinner on March 26th; and
Whereas at that meeting, Ken Eisner was named Business Person of the Year, having been selected through a vote of chamber members; and
Whereas Ken Eisner has not only made outstanding contributions to the Truro and area business community, but has also given his time and talent in generous measure as a volunteer in many worthwhile activities;
Therefore be it resolved that this House join with the Truro and District Chamber of Commerce and extend thanks to Ken Eisner for his exemplary contribution to his community.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Yarmouth.
MR. JOHN DEVEAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas as part of its province-wide discussions of health care, the NDP held a community forum on health care in Yarmouth; and
Whereas residents there expressed their deep concern about the serious shortage of doctors; and
Whereas members of the community argued that the provincial government's current recruitment strategy is ineffective and unresponsive to the particular challenges faced by Yarmouth;
Therefore be it resolved that government listen and respond to community concerns by making community-based recruitment and retention strategies a real health care priority.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
I hear several Noes.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Pictou East.
MR. JAMES DEWOLFE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Westville High School Mavericks hockey team was crowned the Nova Scotia School Athletic Federation "AA" Champions on Saturday in Westville; and
Whereas the Mavericks edged the host Stellarton High School team 2 to 1 in the championship games; and
Whereas teams from Middleton, Barrington, Isle Madame and Eskasoni also took part in the three day round-robin tournament;
Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize the accomplishment of the Mavericks while also recognizing the significant achievements made by the five other high schools in earning the right to advance to the Nova Scotia championship.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.
RESOLUTION NO. 2425
MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas traffic congestion at the junction of Highway No. 103 and Highway No. 102 continues to be a problem; and
Whereas the bridge over the rail line to Bayers Lake Industrial Park has been widened, allowing for a needed extra lane on this busy section of highway; and
Whereas this stalled project now rivals the legendary, bridge to nowhere, with the sequel of, the lane that leads to nowhere;
Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Transportation explain to this House and motorists why this lane expansion project has been forgotten after the costly alteration to this overpass has been completed now for over a year.
MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Cumberland South.
MR. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas on Sunday, March 21st, Reverend Lionel Moriah was honoured during a church service with a plaque from Police Chief David MacKinnon in recognition of his dedicated service to the Cornwallis Street Baptist Church, as well as in his capacity of Police Chaplain for the Halifax Regional Police; and
Whereas in the spring of 1998, Mr. Moriah's appointment as chaplain made him one of four area chaplains; and
Whereas on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Mr. Moriah works with members of the police force, as well as victims of crime, to assist them in coping with traumatic incidents such as the crash of Swissair Flight 111;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Reverend Moriah on his recent honour and applaud the significant contribution made by all police chaplains in assisting others when dealing with tragic events.
Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Dartmouth North.
MR. JERRY PYE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas a recent survey by the Canadian Association of the Deaf indicates that 37.5 per cent of the 300,000 Canadians who use sign language are unemployed and another 42 per cent are underemployed; and
Whereas the majority of deaf persons who are working have jobs in organizations that serve deaf persons; and
Whereas the survey indicates that the situation in Atlantic Canada is particularly disturbing;
Therefore be it resolved that Nova Scotian employers strive to set a nationwide example by giving deaf persons a chance to show their capabilities in the workplace.
Mr. Speaker, I ask for waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Lunenburg.
MR. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas minor hockey is a sport enjoyed by thousands of Nova Scotian young people; and
Whereas all over Nova Scotia play-offs for minor hockey are being completed; and
Whereas the completion of the minor hockey season highlights the outstanding contribution of coaches, officials and parents to this Nova Scotian sporting tradition;
Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly congratulate all those Nova Scotians - coaches, officials and parents - who have contributed to the success of the 1998-99 minor hockey season.
Mr. Speaker, I seek waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage on an introduction.
MR. KEVIN DEVEAUX: Mr. Speaker, up in the gallery opposite there is the First Cole Harbour Cubs, 18 boys and girls, age eight and nine years old, with seven adult leaders with them, including Dale Kelly, their leader. I would ask that the House give them the proper acclaim, if they could stand and be recognized. (Applause)
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou West.
MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Nova Scotia's roads, both secondary and 100-Series, are severely pockmarked by potholes; and
Whereas a road full of potholes can contribute to accidents, thus risking the health of citizens and often damaging vehicles; and
Whereas our weather patterns are changing, producing milder and earlier springs;
Therefore be it resolved that this House fully support having the Ministry of Transportation dispatch hot-patch crews throughout the province several weeks earlier than has been the past practice.
Mr. Speaker, I ask for waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
I hear several Noes.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Argyle.
MR. NEIL LEBLANC: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Scott Cook of Wolfville has recently been given a national honour for his work in the recreational fishery; and
Whereas Mr. Cook is one of five recipients across Canada of the Recreational Fisheries Awards, sponsored by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in Ottawa; and
Whereas Mr. Cook has served since 1992 with the Nova Scotia Wildlife Federation and is a federation representative on the provincial committee on inland fisheries and was a founding member of the Kings County Wildlife Association;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend congratulations to Mr. Cook on his recent honour and applaud his hard work with the recreational fishery.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.
MR. GORDON BALSER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas a Halifax-based advertising firm has won an international award for its work in promoting the launch of the Sunday Herald; and
Whereas McArthur, Thompson and Law was named a gold winner of the 1999 Summit Creative Awards, a competition designed to recognize small creative advertising or video companies; and
Whereas the work of McArthur, Thompson and Law was among 57 entries in the multi-media campaign category;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend their sincere congratulations to the staff of McArthur, Thompson and Law on their recent award and wish them continued success.
Mr. Speaker, I would ask for waiver.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Cape Breton The Lakes.
MS. HELEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas local Boularderie Island farmers have worked hard promoting Cape Breton grown products in the Carribbean; and
Whereas these farmers have secured ongoing orders for locally grown vegetables in Trinidad;
Therefore be it resolved that the Bras d'Or Growers Cooperative, in particular Eddie Rendell and Mark Eyking, be congratulated for their work and initiative and that this House wish them continued success in their endeavours to promote Cape Breton products.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver of notice.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill.
MR. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Nova Scotia Agricultural College students Robbie MacGregor, Sherri MacKay, Chad Brassard and Jamie Montgomery have been named Academic All Canadians by the Canadian College Athletic Association; and
Whereas winners must have been named to an All-Conference Team and achieved honours or high honours as their academic standing; and
Whereas in the 1998-99 academic year this honour was bestowed on only 70 students in Canada, 12 of whom are in Atlantic Canada;
Therefore be it resolved that this House extend congratulations to Robbie MacGregor, Sherri MacKay, Chad Brassard and Jamie Montgomery for their outstanding achievements and also to the principal, faculty and staff of the Nova Scotia Agricultural College for developing an institution which combines academic and athletic excellence.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver of notice.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Pictou West.
MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the New Democratic Party recently held a community forum on health care in Pictou County; and
Whereas residents expressed concern that this government refuses to listen to the community about its particular needs and challenges; and
Whereas this is resulting in serious problems like a high cancer rate, a shortage of family doctors and long waiting lists going unaddressed;
Therefore be it resolved that government open its ears to what communities have to say and give real authority to community health boards.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver of notice.
Is it agreed?
I hear several Noes.
The notice is tabled.
The honourable member for Pictou East.
MR. JAMES DEWOLFE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas recently Thorburn's Megan Smith captured a silver medal at the Tomorrow's Champions national junior figure skating competition; and
Whereas it is the first time a Nova Scotian has performed so well in a women's singles event at a Canadian competition; and
Whereas other local skaters who competed at the Tomorrow's Champions event include Shawn Fequet from the East Pictou Silver Blades Club, who finished sixth out of 14 in the junior men's, and Erika Waller who skates with the Shire and Heather Skating Clubs;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend congratulations to Megan Smith on her impressive achievement and to Shawn Fequet as well as Erika Waller for their performances at this event.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver of notice.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect.
MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas Citizens on Patrol groups throughout our province have been described as the eyes and ears of the RCMP; and
Whereas these volunteers are proving to be invaluable in assisting with policing in our communities; and
Whereas two Citizens on Patrol, John Mitchell of Bayside and Gary McAvoy of Brookside, on Saturday, March 13th saved the life of a woman during their patrol on that evening;
Therefore be it resolved that this House offer its recognition and congratulations to Gary McAvoy and John Mitchell for their exemplary actions as Citizens on Patrol.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver of notice.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
The honourable member for Cumberland South.
MR. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Royal Canadian Legion officially reopened its Branch No. 36, Oxford, February 21st following extensive renovations and much hard work on behalf of all members; and
Whereas the facility was dedicated to those who served Canada and to those who are working to preserve their memory; and
Whereas during the reopening ceremony, tribute was also paid to the Oxford Cadets who, for the first time at a Legion event, acted as colour guard;
Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend congratulations to President John Colville; Provincial President Nova Scotia Command, John Landsburg; Don LeBlanc, Branch Chaplain; the Oxford Cadets; and all those who dedicated their time and energy in the reopening of this facility.
Mr. Speaker, I would request waiver of notice.
MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver of notice.
Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
[7:45 p.m.]
ORDERS OF THE DAY
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Deputy Government House Leader.
MR. PAUL MACEWAN: Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Bills.
MR. SPEAKER: Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
[7:46 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Donald Chard in the Chair.]
[9:58 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Ronald Russell, resumed the Chair.]
MR. SPEAKER: The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:
THE CLERK: That the committee has met, made progress and begs leave to sit again.
MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?
It is agreed.
The honourable Government House Leader.
HON. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, would you please revert to the order of business, Tabling Reports, Regulations and Other Papers.
TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS
MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.
HON. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, on your behalf, I would like to table the Return of General Election for the House of Assembly for the Thirty-Fourth General Election, 1998, Report of the Chief Electoral Officer.
MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.
The honourable Government House Leader.
HON. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, that concludes the government's agenda for today. Tomorrow we will meet between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Following the daily routine and Question Period, we will be back in Committee of the Whole House on Bills on Bill No. 90. (Interruptions)
Mr. Speaker, because of the fact that Friday is a holiday, for Thursday we have reached an agreement for the House to meet from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. with the normal resolutions, order of business and Question Period. Following Question Period, the House will then adjourn for the weekend.
I move that we do now adjourn.
MR. SPEAKER: Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.
The motion is carried.
We stand adjourned.
[The House rose at 9:59 p.m.]
