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April 29, 2014

HANSARD14-36

DEBATES AND PROCEEDINGS

Speaker: Honourable Kevin Murphy

Published by Order of the Legislature by Hansard Reporting Services and printed by the Queen's Printer.

Available on INTERNET at http://nslegislature.ca/legislative-business/hansard-debates/



First Session

TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTSPAGE

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
ERDT - Broadband Internet: Argyle-Barrington - Upgrade,
2369
ERDT - Broadband Internet: Argyle-Barrington - Upgrade,
2370
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1473, Lapointe, Jacques: AG Appt. Revocation/Michael Pickup
AG Appt. - Approval, The Premier »
2370
Vote - Affirmative
2371
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 71, Public Highways Act,
2371
[PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:]
PSC - MacKenzie, Deborah: Return-to-Work Planning Process - Discuss,
2372
[PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:]
Law Amendments Committee,
2372
NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1474, Sydney-Whitney Pier MLA: Good Health - Wish,
2373
Vote - Affirmative
2374
Res. 1475, Charlebois, Dr. Carol: King's College - Hon. Degree,
2374
Vote - Affirmative
2374
Res. 1476, Smith, Eric: Work/Commun. Serv./Fam. Dedication
- Congrats., Mr. K. Irving »
2375
Vote - Affirmative
2375
Res. 1477, Murray, Dr. Jock: St. FX - Hon. Degree,
2375
Vote - Affirmative
2376
Res. 1478, Sir John A. Macdonald HS - Hungry Bowls: Students (Gr. 11/Gr. 12)/
Teachers - Participation Recognize, Hon. D. Peterson-Rafuse »
2376
Vote - Affirmative
2377
Res. 1479, Hunt, Taylor - Bedford Youth Vol. of Yr. (2014),
2377
Vote - Affirmative
2378
Res. 1480, Alexander, Art: Death of - Tribute,
2378
Vote - Affirmative
2379
Res. 1481, Futureworx - Employment Assistance: Dedication - Congrats.,
2379
Vote - Affirmative
2380
Res. 1482, Stroink, Anneke - LeMarchant-St. Thomas: Culture Fair
- Submission Congrats., Hon. K. Casey »
2380
Vote - Affirmative
2380
Res. 1483, Sydney Mines Jr. High: PAWS - Fundraising - Congrats.,
2380
Vote - Affirmative
2381
Res. 1484, Anderson, Rob/Band Members: Success - Congrats.,
2381
Vote - Affirmative
2382
Res. 1485, Poirier, Phillip: Dévouement à sa communauté - Reconnaître,
2382
Vote - Affirmative
2383
Res. 1486, Thériault Mme Patricia: Early Childhood Educ
- Success Congrats., Mr. Gordon Wilson »
2383
Vote - Affirmative
2384
Res. 1487, MacDonald, Cameron & Shelley: Harbour Light
Campground - Anniv. (50th), Ms. K. MacFarlane « »
2384
Vote - Affirmative
2384
Res. 1488, Vaughan, Scott: S. Shore Work Activity Prog
Accomplishments - Congrats., Hon. M. Furey »
2385
Vote - Affirmative
2385
Res. 1489, Francis, Carol: Gardening Accomplishments
- Congrats., Hon. P. Dunn « »
2385
Vote - Affirmative
2386
Res. 1490, Al-arabi, Alla: Volunteering - Congrats.,
2386
Vote - Affirmative
2387
Res. 1491, Lights for Health Campaign: Vols. - Thank,
2387
Vote - Affirmative
2387
Res. 1492, Clarke, Marion - Commun. Serv. Vol. Award,
2388
Vote - Affirmative
2388
Res. 1493, Meagher, Ashley: Ringette Accomplishments
- Congrats., Mr. J. Stroink »
2388
Vote - Affirmative
2389
Res. 1494, Webber, Ted - E. Shore: Betterment - Thank,
2389
Vote - Affirmative
2390
Res. 1495, Milford-Lantz United Church Women (Unit Three):
Ronald McDonald House - Donations Thank, Ms. M. Miller »
2390
Vote - Affirmative
2390
Res. 1496, Phinney, Debbie: Staggers Pub & Grub - Opening Congrats.,
2390
Vote - Affirmative
2391
Res. 1497, Hfx. Northwest Rotary Club - Spryfield Non-Profit Organizations:
Support - Commend, Mr. B. Maguire « »
2391
Vote - Affirmative
2392
Res. 1498, Rafuse, Albert: Oakhill & Dist. FD - Serv. (30 Yrs.),
2392
Vote - Affirmative
2393
Res. 1499, E. Passage RCMP - Seniors Acad.: Participant/Vols
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen »
2393
Vote - Affirmative
2393
Res. 1500, Erinville & Dist. FD Vol. Firefighters/Families
- Thank You, Mr. L. Hines « »
2393
Vote - Affirmative
2394
ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS:
No. 288, Prem.: Grad. Retention Rebate - Student Disappointment,
2394
No. 289, Prem.: Health Regions - Amalgamation,
2396
No. 290, Prem.: Manufacturing Exports - Ivany Rept. Recommendations,
2397
No. 291, LAE: C.B. Unemployment - Gov't. Response,
2399
No. 292, Health & Wellness: DHA Amalgamation - Costs Release,
2400
No. 293, ERDT - Southwestern N.S.: Broadband Update
- Gov't. Actions, Hon. C. d'Entremont « »
2402
No. 294, Prem.: Grads/Students - Funding Reductions,
2404
No. 295, Health & Wellness: Hospitals - Conditions,
2406
No. 296, Prem.: Gas Taxes - Position,
2407
No. 297, Nat. Res. - Hike N.S./Min.: Hiking Strategy - Create,
2409
No. 298, Health & Wellness - Esbriet: Pharmacare Coverage - Extend,
2409
No. 299, Mun. Affs. - Troy Trailer Court: Evictions - Details,
2410
No. 300, Aboriginal Affs. - Eskasoni Crisis Line: Funding - Removal
2412
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR SECOND READING:
No. 59, XMLAS Act
2414
2414
2415
2415
Vote - Affirmative
2415
No. 50, St. Francis Xavier University Act
2416
2416
2421
Vote - Affirmative
2422
HOUSE RESOLVED INTO CWH ON BILLS AT 4:17 P.M
2422
HOUSE RECONVENED AT 4:23 P.M
2422
CWH REPORTS
2423
PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 27, St. Andrew's Society of New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Incorporation Act
2423
Vote - Affirmative
2423
PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING:
No. 34, Notaries and Commissioners Act
2424
Vote - Affirmative
2424
No. 35, Property Valuation Services Corporation Act
2424
Vote - Affirmative
2424
No. 41, Electricity Efficiency and Conservation Restructuring (2014) Act
2425
2425
2427
2430
Vote - Affirmative
2432
No. 43, Direct Sellers' Regulation Act
2432
Vote - Affirmative
2432
No. 44, Public Trustee Act
2433
Vote - Affirmative
2433
No. 45, Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications System Reform (2014) Act
2433
Vote - Affirmative
2434
No. 49, Motor Vehicle Act
2434
Vote - Affirmative
2434
No. 51, Municipal Government Act
2435
2435
2436
2437
Vote - Affirmative
2437
No. 52, Liquor Control Act
2437
2438
2439
2440
Vote - Affirmative
2442
No. 53, Police Act
2442
Vote - Affirmative
2442
ADJOURNMENT:
MOTION UNDER RULE 5(5):
Health & Wellness - Lyme Disease: Gov't. Incompetence - Recognize,
2443
2446
2449
2451
2451
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Wed., Apr. 30th at 2:00 p.m
2451
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Tabled 04/28/14:
Res. 1415, "The Town Heroes" - ECMA Awards,
2452
Res. 1416, Baines, Fred: Tea Shop - Congrats.,
2452
Res. 1417, Natl. Day of Mourning - Mark,
2453
Res. 1418, Our Lady of Lebanon Parish: First Communion Class
(2014) - Congrats., Hon. L. Diab « »
2453
Res. 1419, Crowley, Mary Ann & Paul: Achievements
- Congrats., Hon. L. Diab « »
2454
Res. 1420, Faddoul, Zakhour: Achievements/Volunteerism
- Congrats., Hon. L. Diab « »
2454
Res. 1421, Jewer-Pineau, Toni - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2455
Res. 1422, Britney, Alaina - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2455
Res. 1423, Garand, Ally - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2456
Res. 1424, Mensing, Anika - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2456
Res. 1425, Baskwill, Asst. Coach Nick - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2457
Res. 1426, Bower, Coach Greg - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2457
Res. 1427, Garand, Courtney - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2458
Res. 1428, Burke, Eden - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2458
Res. 1429, Gillespie, Emma - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2459
Res. 1430, Theisen, Erica - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2459
Res. 1431, Adams, Jennifer - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2460
Res. 1432, Britney, Kyra - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2460
Res. 1433, Wentzell, Lauren - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2461
Res. 1434, MacKinnon, Martina - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2461
Res. 1435, Brown, Maridith - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2462
Res. 1436, Dixon, Sage - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2462
Res. 1437, Smith, Sydney - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2463
Res. 1438, Armstrong, Tara - Middleton RHS Monarchs Girls
Basketball Team: Successful Season - Congrats., The Premier « »
2463
Res. 1439, Jost Fam.: Tatamagouche Brewing Co
- Congrats., Hon. K. Casey « »
2464
Res. 1440, MacNeil, Betty - Great Village & Dist. Ladies Fire Aux
Serv. Award (45 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2464
Res. 1441, Layton, Meredith - Great Village & Dist. Ladies Fire Aux
Serv. Award (45 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2465
Res. 1442, Fahey, Peter & Rhonda: Col. Co. Christmas Bonus Prog
- Congrats., Hon. K. Casey « »
2465
Res. 1443, MacRitchie, Sarah - Bryan Scallion/Diane Powell
2466
Res. 1444, Millman, Sarah: Loran Scholarship - Congrats.,
2466
Res. 1445, Tatamagouche Elem. Sch.: Sch. Bd. Accreditation Prog
- Congrats., Hon. K. Casey « »
2467
Res. 1446, Slow Food Can. Meeting: Tatamagouche - Hosting
Congrats., Hon. K. Casey « »
2467
Res. 1447, Thibault, Justin - N. Col. HS Student of Mo. (09/13),
2468
Res. 1448, Barrett, Noah - N. Col. HS Student of Mo. (02/14),
2469
Res. 1449, Underwood, Jennie - N. Col. HS Student of Mo. (03/14),
2469
Res. 1450, Hayman, Devin - N. Col. HS Student of Mo. (03/14),
2470
Res. 1451, Rutherford, Wade: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (20 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2470
Res. 1452, Spencer, Trevor: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Most Improved Firefighter Award, Hon. K. Casey « »
2471
Res. 1453, Spence, Terry: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- O'Brien Fellowship Award, Hon. K. Casey « »
2471
Res. 1454, Masstown Hardware: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Francis Mem. Award, Hon. K. Casey « »
2472
Res. 1455, Giles, Kathy: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (15 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2472
Res. 1456, Cameron, Kate: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (5 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2473
Res. 1457, Slack, Joe: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (20 Yr.)/Officer of Yr. Award, Hon. K. Casey « »
2473
Res. 1458, Kinsman, Gregg: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (20 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2474
Res. 1459, Slack, Gary: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (20 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2474
Res. 1460, Works, Derrick: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Firefighter of Yr. Award, Hon. K. Casey « »
2475
Res. 1461, Congdon, Chris: Great Village & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (10 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2475
Res. 1462, Hansen, Evan: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (15 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2476
Res. 1463, Boudreau, Emile: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (10 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2476
Res. 1464, Irving, Brian: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (30 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2477
Res. 1465, MacKay, Adrienne: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (10 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2478
Res. 1466, Wood, Keith: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (10 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2478
Res. 1467, Hansen, LeRoy: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (30 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2479
Res. 1468, Brownell, Mark: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Member of Yr., Hon. K. Casey « »
2479
Res. 1469, MacKinnon, Nathan: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (10 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2480
Res. 1470, Hill, Tracey: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (25 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2480
Res. 1471, Wood, Susan: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (10 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2481
Res. 1472, Hill, Tracey: N. River & Dist. Fire Brigade
- Serv. Award (25 Yr.), Hon. K. Casey « »
2481
Tabled 04/29/14:
Res. 1501, Jarjoura, Prof. Antoine: Awards/Accomplishments
- Congrats., Hon. L. Diab « »
2482
Res. 1502, Our Lady of Lebanon Parish Lebanese Cedar Fest.:
Members/Organizers - Congrats., Hon. L. Diab « »
2483
Res. 1503, CyberSCAN Team - Thank,
2483
Res. 1504, Havill, Bruce: Leadership Prayer Breakfast Comm
- Chairing Thank, Hon. D. Whalen « »
2484
Res. 1505, Deveaux, Matthew - Medal of the Maple,
2484
Res. 1506, Patzelt, Robert: N.S. Contributions - Thank,
2485
Res. 1507, Al-Otumi, Akram: Top 75 Immigrants (Can.)
- Congrats., Hon. D. Whalen « »
2485
Res. 1508, Duncan, Norman - Mainland North Vol. Award,
2486
Res. 1509, Keats, Karen - Woman of Yr. Award,
2486
Res. 1510, Robertson, Dale - Mainland North Vol. Award,
2487
Res. 1511, Lohnes, John & Joyce - Natl. Vol. Wk. Award,
2487
Res. 1512, Churchill, Emily - Natl. Vol. Wk. Award,
2488
Res. 1513, MacDonald, Doug - Natl. Vol. Wk. Award,
2488
Res. 1514, Bokolas, Nicholetta - Natl. Vol. Wk. Award,
2489
Res. 1515, White, Adrian - Natl. Vol. Wk. Award,
2489
Res. 1516, Huang, Wilber - Natl. Vol. Wk. Award,
2490
Res. 1517, Gosbee, Allen V. - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2490
Res. 1518, Bhathena, Khorshed - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2491
Res. 1519, Barrett, Lillian - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2491
Res. 1520, Bennett, Barbara - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2492
Res. 1521, MacNeill, Brenda - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2492
Res. 1522, Hickey, Joanne - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2492
Res. 1523, MacIntyre, Kathleen - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2493
Res. 1524, Riles, Ken - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2493
Res. 1525, Fox, Margaret - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2494
Res. 1526, Myers, Mary-Ellen - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2494
Res. 1527, Smith, Mike - Seniors Acad.: Vol. - Congrats.,
2495
Res. 1528, Slaunwhite, Myrtle - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2495
Res. 1529, Harmes, Pat - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2496
Res. 1530, Yearwood, Peggy - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2496
Res. 1531, Shore, Rita - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2496
Res. 1532, Smith, Rita - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2497
Res. 1533, Thompson, Robert - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2497
Res. 1534, Smith, Rose - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2498
Res. 1535, Gosbee, Ruby J. - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2498
Res. 1536, Bhathena, Shapur - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2499
Res. 1537, McLean, Ted - Seniors Acad.: Vol. - Thank,
2499
Res. 1538, Harmes, Tom - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2500
Res. 1539, Hickey, Tom - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2500
Res. 1540, William, Tom - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2500
Res. 1541, Reinhart, Madge - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2501
Res. 1542, William, Madonna - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2501
Res. 1543, Preeper, Brenda - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2502
Res. 1544, Thompson, Chris - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2502
Res. 1545, Hurley, Christine - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2503
Res. 1546, Thompson, Christine - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2503
Res. 1547, Elson, Cst. Brenda - Seniors Acad.: Vol
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2504
Res. 1548, McLean, Debbie - Seniors Acad.: Vol
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2504
Res. 1549, Ramey, Garnetta - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2505
Res. 1550, Davis, Jean - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2505
Res. 1551, Monette, Jean - Seniors Acad.: Grad
- Congrats., Ms. J. Treen « »
2505
Res. 1552, Valley-Kemptown Fire Brigade: Aerial Fire Truck
- Acquisition, Hon. K. Casey « »
2506
Res. 1553, Elizabeth Bishop Soc.: Legacy Proj. - Congrats.,
2506
Res. 1554, Somerset & Dist. Elem. Sch.: Wetland
Ctr. of Excellence - Designation, Hon. K. Casey « »
2507
Res. 1555, Kozera, Liam: Wetlands Hero - Award,
2508
Res. 1556, Cuvilier, Chris - Hantsport Prov. Vol. Rep.,
2508

[Page 2369]

HALIFAX, TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2014

Sixty-second General Assembly

First Session

2:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Ms. Margaret Miller

MR. SPEAKER » : Order, please. We'll begin the daily routine, beginning with the topic for late debate:

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the Liberal Government's incompetence for not taking action on the growing issue of Lyme disease in Nova Scotia.

It was submitted by the honourable member for Hants West.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition for acceptable broadband Internet in Argyle-Barrington - Pinkney's Point, Melbourne, and Comeau's Hill:

"We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Nova Scotia and the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism to ensure that the service is brought up to an acceptable current standard as soon as possible."

[Page 2370]

Mr. Speaker, there are 66 signatures on this, and I have affixed my signature as well.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition for acceptable broadband Internet from Pubnico Head to Barrington:

"We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Nova Scotia and the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism to ensure this service is brought up to an acceptable current standard as soon as possible."

There are 613 signatures (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington has the floor.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : There are 613 signatures on this, and I have affixed mine as well.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 1473

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

Whereas Chapter 33 of the Acts of 2010, the Auditor General Act, provides that, subject to the approval of the House of Assembly by majority vote, the Governor in Council shall appoint a person to be the Auditor General for a term not exceeding 10 years; and

[Page 2371]

Whereas Jacques Lapointe was appointed by the Governor in Council as Auditor General by Order in Council 2005-540 effective March 1, 2006, and has retired as Auditor General effective January 31, 2014; and

Whereas an open competition was held for the position of Auditor General by an external selection committee, and the Governor in Council by Order in Council has, subject to the approval of the House of Assembly, revoked the appointment of Jacques Lapointe as Auditor General and appointed Michael Pickup as Auditor General effective July 2, 2014;

Therefore be it resolved that the revocation of the appointment of Jacques Lapointe as Auditor General, and the appointment of Michael Pickup as Auditor General for a term of office of 10 years effective July 2, 2014, be approved.

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

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

Bill No. 71 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 371 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Public Highways Act, Respecting Spring Weight Restrictions. (Mr. Tim Houston)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Ordered that this bill be read a second time on a future day.

We'll revert to the order of business, Presenting and Reading Petitions.

[PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS]

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

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Thank you and I'd like to thank my colleagues for allowing me to do this.

[Page 2372]

Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition. The operative clause is:

"We petition the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia to:
Urge the Government to meet with Deborah MacKenzie to develop a plan to return her to its workforce in an appropriate capacity.
Urge the Government to amend its employment system to provide equitable return to work opportunities for all disabled employees.
Urge the Government to mitigate harm to all citizens caused by workplace exclusion of protected groups by identifying and pursuing the primary prevention of workplace discrimination as a Public Health goal."

Mr. Speaker, I have affixed my signature to this petition.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please revert to the order of business, Presenting Reports of Committees.

[PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. LENA DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, as Chairman of the Committee on Law Amendments, I am directed to report the committee has met and considered the following bills:

Bill No. 40 - Maintenance and Custody Act.

Bill No. 56 - Dental Act.

Bill No. 60 - Securities Act.

Bill No. 65 - Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Commission Act.

Bill No. 66 - Halifax Regional Municipality Charter and Municipal

Government Act.

and the committee recommends these bills to the favourable consideration of the House, each without amendment.

[Page 2373]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Ordered that these bills be referred to the Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, with the consent of the House, I move that the bills just referred back from the Committee on Law Amendments by the Minister of Justice be added to today's order paper for consideration in Committee of the Whole House on Bills later in today's proceedings.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg.

RESOLUTION NO. 1474

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

Whereas we have recently learned of the significant health challenges facing our fellow member for Sydney-Whitney Pier; and

Whereas for the past 11 years we have enjoyed working alongside our friend and colleague, both here at Province House and at home; and

Whereas we know the member will tackle this challenge with the same strength and determination we have come to know him for;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly wish the member for Sydney-Whitney Pier good health and let him know that our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family as they go through this time.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 2374]

Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried. (Applause)

The honourable Leader of the New Democratic Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 1475

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

Whereas Carol Charlebois is the executive director of Metro Non-Profit Housing Association, a private, charitable organization that provides permanent, secure housing and support to low-income and single individuals; and

Whereas Carol Charlebois has been working tirelessly for many years to ensure the availability of affordable housing in Halifax for those who are, or are at risk of becoming, homeless; and

Whereas Carol Charlebois will receive a Doctor of Canon Law honorary degree at King's College's May 2014 Convocation Ceremony for her commitment to social justice and Halifax's most vulnerable citizens;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize Dr. Carol Charlebois' hard work and her dedication to social justice and affordable housing in Halifax, and congratulate her on receiving a Doctor of Canon Law honorary degree from King's College.

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

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 South.

RESOLUTION NO. 1476

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

Whereas Mr. Eric Smith of New Minas, Kings County, has enjoyed a long and remarkable career in sales and community service; and

Whereas Mr. Eric Smith has served the citizens of Kings County as a volunteer and community leader at Grand View Manor, Flowercart, the Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre, Kings Transit, and Valley Waste Resource Management, and as an elected councillor at the Municipality of the County of Kings; and

Whereas Eric is lovingly devoted to his wife Carolyn, their children and grandchild, and sees them as the greatest treasures in his life;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly congratulate and thank Eric for his lifetime of hard work, community service, and dedication to family.

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

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 Pictou West.

RESOLUTION NO. 1477

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

Whereas Dr. Thomas John (Jock) Murray, a Halifax-based, world-renowned leader in multiple sclerosis and care, was recognized as a Canadian medical hero with induction into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame on April 24th; and

Whereas Dr. Murray was born in Pictou, Nova Scotia, completed his undergrad at St. Francis Xavier University, and graduated with honours from Dalhousie Medical School in 1963;

[Page 2376]

Whereas Dr. Murray founded and then directed the Dalhousie MS Research Unit for more than 20 years, and is the author of the award-winning book Multiple Sclerosis: The History of a Disease;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Dr. Jock Murray's significant contributions to MS health research in Nova Scotia, and his tremendous achievements internationally in this field.

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

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 Chester-St. Margaret's.

RESOLUTION NO. 1478

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

Whereas this past winter Grade 11 and 12 students and teachers at Sir John A. MacDonald High School undertook a three-month-long project called Hungry Bowls to help raise awareness of hunger and food insecurity; and

Whereas the project involved students crafting pottery bowls to later be sold along with hot soup and bread at a fundraising dinner; and

Whereas with the support of teaching staff, especially Isla MacEachern and Emily Wickwire Foster, students worked many weeks and weekends and raised $2,000, which the students donated to the St. Margarets Bay Food Bank and SJA Cares;

Therefore be it resolved that we recognize the Grade 11 and 12 students at Sir John A. MacDonald High School for their participation in the Hungry Bowls project, teachers Isla MacEachern and Emily Wickwire Foster for spearheading the effort, and all of them for helping to raise awareness of the hunger and food insecurity that face many people today.

[Page 2377]

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

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. ALLAN ROWE « » : Mr. Speaker, may I have your permission to make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MR. ROWE « » : Mr. Speaker, if I could draw the attention of the House to the east gallery where we have some 25 students from Bicentennial Junior High, which is in the riding of Dartmouth South, which is my riding, and also many of the students who attend the school are from the riding of my colleague, the honourable Minister of Community Services.

We'd like to welcome the students, along with their leaders Mark Mullally and Ms. Leanne Hawes, and hope they enjoy the proceedings here this afternoon and get a first-hand look at democracy and their government in action. Welcome to all of you. Thank you. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Labour and Advanced Education.

RESOLUTION NO. 1479

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

Whereas for five years, Bedford United Church youth member Taylor Hunt has used his great musical ability in the service of his congregation as a pianist, singer, guitarist and bassist in the church youth worship music leadership group and was also selected to travel to The Gambia, Africa, for a cultural exchange with Gambian peers; and

[Page 2378]

Whereas Taylor leads and volunteers with dignity, commitment and integrity and as an exceptional student at C.P. Allen High School is also a member of Cheetahs for Change, Support for Syria, and Me to We, while directing efforts to assist Beacon House and Feed Nova Scotia; and

Whereas he was nominated by Bedford United Church for the 2014 Bedford Volunteer Awards;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate Taylor Hunt on being named Bedford Youth Volunteer of the Year 2014 at a ceremony on April 27th in Bedford and commend his outstanding service to his community.

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

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 Pictou Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1480

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

Whereas the late Arthur Alexander, a Pictou Centre resident, passed away suddenly on December 9, 2013; and

Whereas Art's passion for his community served as a tremendous inspiration to all Nova Scotians; and

Whereas he was actively involved in drawing the federal government's attention to the Bruce Curtis case in the 1980s;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly remember Art Alexander for his involvement in his church, assisting causes in social justice, official bilingualism, animal rescue and numerous other community groups.

[Page 2379]

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

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 Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

RESOLUTION NO. 1481

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

Whereas Futureworx is a job search centre located in Truro and is celebrating its 30th Anniversary of service to the Colchester and East Hants regions; and

Whereas Futureworx offers employment assistance programs and services to the general public, as well as an enhanced employment development skills program utilizing their Employability Skills Assessment program; and

Whereas more than 10,000 individuals have been successfully connected to the labour force;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Futureworx for their dedication to helping thousands of people find employment and receive the skills they need to enter the workforce.

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

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.

[Page 2380]

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 1482

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

Whereas Anneke Stroink recently finished in third place at the Heritage Fair held at LeMarchant-St. Thomas School in Halifax; and

Whereas Anneke's submission focused on Elizabeth Bishop, the former Pulitzer Prize winner and American Poet Laureate who spent her childhood in Great Village, Colchester North; and

Whereas Anneke, as a result of this placing, will now advance to the regionals which are being held here in the city in two weeks;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House congratulate Anneke Stroink on her successful submission at the LeMarchant-St. Thomas Culture Fair and wish her the best of luck at regionals.

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

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 Northside-Westmount.

RESOLUTION NO. 1483

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

Whereas a group of students at Sydney Mines Junior High have come together to educate fellow students in the community about animal care and responsible ownership; and

[Page 2381]

Whereas this group of 19 students became known as Peers for Animal Wellness Club, PAWS for short, and they have donated cash and gifts to the Cape Breton branch of the SPCA; and

Whereas PAWS's main goal is to make a difference for animals in need and its members have raised funds for the spaying of rescued cats;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate these young adults for stepping up to improve their community and help homeless pets.

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

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. 1484

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

Whereas Robert Anderson has grown up in Timberlea and has worked hard as a solo singer-songwriter, and as a guitar player in the music industry, with the goal of releasing his own music; and

Whereas Rob Anderson along with his band The Windthrowes, released their EP The Storm on November 14, 2013; and

Whereas Rob Anderson, as part of E.B. Anderson & the Resolutes, has been nominated for the Rising Star Recording of the Year at this year's East Coast Music Awards;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly congratulate Rob Anderson and his band members on their success and wish them even more success in the future.

[Page 2382]

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

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 Inverness.

RESOLUTION NO. 1485

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Monsieur le Président, à une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que Phillip Poirier a prélevé plus de 300 000 $ avec la vente de billets 50/50 pour le Trail Minor Hockey à Cheticamp pendant les 25 dernières années; et

Attendu que Phillip est bien connu et respecté de tous qui l'ont rencontré, soit à l'aréna ou le long du village de Cheticamp; et

Attendu que sans l'aide de Phillip à la vente de billets 50/50 au profit du hockey mineur chaque année, plusieurs enfants n'auraient jamais eu l'occasion de jouer au hockey;

Par conséquent, qu'il soit résolu que tous les membres de cette Assemblée reconnaissent Phillip pour avoir à coeur sa communauté et ainsi faire une différence dans la vie de tant de jeunes gens.

Monsieur le Président, je demande l'adoption de cette résolution sans préavis et sans débat.

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

Whereas Phillip Poirier has raised over $300,000 for Cabot Trail Minor Hockey in Cheticamp over the last 25 years, selling 50/50 tickets; and

Whereas Phillip is well-known and respected by everyone who has ever met him at the arena or along the main street of Cheticamp; and

[Page 2383]

Whereas without Phillip selling those tickets every year, some children would never have had the chance to play hockey;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly acknowledge Phillip for caring about his community and making a difference in the lives of so many young people.

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

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 Clare-Digby.

RESOLUTION NO. 1486

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

Whereas La P'tite Académie is an early childhood education centre at l'École Joseph Dugas in Church Point, and is well regarded along St. Marys Bay; and

Whereas Madame Patricia Thériault has a long career in early childhood education in the Acadian community; and

Whereas Madame Patricia Thériault is the program director at the P'tite Académie and the program Grandir en français, and she received an award for her dedicated work in early childhood education in Clare;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this Assembly congratulate Madame Patricia Thériault and wish her continued success in her career in early childhood education.

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

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

[Page 2384]

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1487

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

Whereas Harbour Light Campground, located in Braeshore, Pictou County, is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in the summer of 2014; and

Whereas Harbour Light Campground was founded in 1964 by Sam and Minnie Smith of Pictou and remains a family business, currently owned and operated by a third generation - their grandson and his wife, Cameron and Shelley Macdonald; and

Whereas Harbour Light Campground began as a small family campground and has grown to a modern full-service facility, with over 200 campsites that house many local seasonal campers as well as tourists from across Canada, the United States, and Europe;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Cameron and Shelley Macdonald and family on the 50th Anniversary of Harbour Light Campground, and wish them continued success.

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

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 Municipal Affairs.

[Page 2385]

RESOLUTION NO. 1488

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

Whereas Scott Vaughan of Bridgewater was a participant in the South Shore Work Activity Program, which helps residents of Lunenburg and Queens County to develop reading, writing, and math skills used in a work environment; and

Whereas Scott submitted a poem in the Adult Learners' Week Contest, offered through Literacy Nova Scotia, in the workplace/workforce category; and

Whereas Scott was one of four winners of the contest and was able to read his poem at a celebration held in Halifax on April 4, 2014;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Scott Vaughan for his accomplishments in the South Shore Work Activity Program and for winning the Adult Learners' Week Contest, and wish him success for the future.

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

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 Pictou Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 1489

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

Whereas Stellarton native Carol Francis has been contributing to the beautification of her neighbourhood and town with her gardening talents for many years; and

Whereas Carol has recently been recognized by Gardens East gardening magazine with an 11-page pictorial tribute to her Stellarton home gardens; and

[Page 2386]

Whereas Carol has shared her knowledge and gardening wisdom with many friends and neighbours, as well as being a valuable member of Stellarton Communities in Bloom;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Carol Francis for her talent and gift of bringing joy to so many through her beautiful gardens.

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

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 Finance and Treasury Board.

RESOLUTION NO. 1490

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

Whereas the City of Halifax annually recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were given out on April 9, 2014, to deserving individuals to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

Whereas Alla Al-arabi of Clayton Park West was nominated by the member for Fairview-Clayton Park and received this award for her tremendous work at the IWK, the Fairview Family Resource Centre, Pier 21, and the Keshen Goodman Library as a cultural ambassador and a bridge for newcomers;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Alla for her many hours of volunteering and thank her for making Nova Scotia a more welcoming destination for new Canadians.

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

[Page 2387]

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 Northside-Westmount.

RESOLUTION NO. 1491

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

Whereas the Lights for Health campaign for the Northside Harbourview Hospital Foundation closed with a festive gathering to celebrate more than $50,000 in donations this year; and

Whereas a large crowd was on hand to view the fireworks display and the lighting of many lights on the hospital lawn; and

Whereas the veterans units from various hospitals travelled to the festivities in the new bus that was purchased with proceeds from last year's Lights for Health campaign;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank the army of volunteers that make this annual campaign a tremendous success.

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

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 Fairview-Clayton Park.

[Page 2388]

RESOLUTION NO. 1492

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

Whereas Marion Clarke has been a dedicated volunteer for 29 years at the Seniors' Luncheon Program at the Fairview United Church; and

Whereas Ms. Clarke selflessly gives back to her community by helping her neighbours in Fairview-Clayton Park; and

Whereas Ms. Clarke was honoured at the 11th Annual Mainland North Volunteer Awards, and is the recipient of the Community Service Volunteer Award;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Marion Clarke, and thank her for all her years of volunteer service in our community.

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

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 Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 1493

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

Whereas Team Nova Scotia U14 AA, formerly the Halifax Hurricanes, is a blended ringette team with girls from the Halifax Chebucto and St. Margarets Bay area; and

Whereas Ashley Meagher plays forward for Team Nova Scotia; and

Whereas they won the Provincials in April 2014 and participated in the Eastern Canadian Ringette Championship in Mississauga, Ontario;

[Page 2389]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate Ashley, and wish her continued success in the future.

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

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 Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie.

RESOLUTION NO. 1494

MR. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the member for Eastern Shore, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Ted Webber, a lifelong resident of Lake Charlotte, has been a professional surveyor for approximately 40 years; and

Whereas Ted Webber has worked with and in the family business, a local landmark, Webber's Store, in Lake Charlotte; and

Whereas Ted Webber has been instrumental in helping in many community projects such as the Clam Harbour Beach and Memory Lane;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Ted Webber for giving of his time and talents for the betterment of the Eastern Shore.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 2390]

Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Hants East.

RESOLUTION NO. 1495

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

Whereas the gift of a handmade blanket, lovingly assembled by caring hands, warms the body and spirit; and

Whereas the members of Milford-Lantz United Church Women, Unit 3, have donated six junior quilts to the Ronald McDonald House in Halifax, in addition to over 40 quilts to friends and community members who needed support;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank the members of the Milford-Lantz United Church Women, Unit 3, for their donations to sick children and their families who stay at Ronald McDonald House in Halifax.

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

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 Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1496

MR. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the member for Dartmouth South, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas downtown Dartmouth is really blossoming into a thriving and bustling community of businesses, shops, galleries, and residents; and

[Page 2391]

Whereas Debbie Phinney of Dartmouth is a hard-working entrepreneur who has recently rejuvenated an old downtown building to establish her own restaurant, Staggers Pub and Grub, to serve the people of her community; and

Whereas Staggers Pub and Grub on Portland Street in downtown Dartmouth celebrated its grand opening on Thursday, March 13th with neighbours, friends, members of the downtown business community, and loyal customers;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Debbie Phinney on the opening of Staggers Pub and Grub in downtown Dartmouth, and wish her well in the success of her business.

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

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 Atlantic.

RESOLUTION NO. 1497

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

Whereas the Halifax Northwest Rotary Club is partnering with the non-profits and local business to create the Loonies for Change 50/50 weekly draw; and

Whereas a portion of the proceeds from the Loonies for Change draws will go to support six local charities in the Spryfield area; and

Whereas the proceeds from the lottery will help these charities provide services and programs to the community;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly commend the Halifax Northwest Rotary Club for its support of Spryfield non-profit organizations and its commitment to improving our community.

[Page 2392]

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

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 1498

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas volunteers are the backbone of the Province of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas volunteer firefighters selflessly put their lives at risk to help and protect the lives of the people of their community and beyond; and

Whereas Albert Rafuse of the Oakhill and District Fire Department is being honoured by the department for his 30 years of dedication and for making that community a safer place to live through his volunteer actions;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Albert on his hard work and selflessness in giving back to the community through volunteering.

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

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.

[Page 2393]

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1499

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

Whereas the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office is conducting a seniors academy at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, 32 seniors will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating all 32 participants and the volunteers from the Eastern Passage RCMP Safety Office in successfully completing this highly valuable course.

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

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 Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie.

RESOLUTION NO. 1500

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

Whereas the Erinville and District Fire Department has been offering an essential service to its community since 1986; and

Whereas they have assisted their community in its most vulnerable times of need through house fires, grass fires, vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, and so much; and

[Page 2394]

Whereas they respond all hours of the day, holidays, weekends, these volunteers have missed family events, anniversaries and more, all while most are juggling their day jobs and family obligations;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join me as I say a heartfelt thank you to all volunteer firefighters and their families and be ever so mindful of the importance of their roles in the lives of so many.

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

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.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

MR. SPEAKER « » : The time is now 2:46 p.m.; we'll conclude at 3:46 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

PREM.: GRAD. RETENTION REBATE - STUDENT DISAPPOINTMENT

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Premier. Yesterday members of the Law Amendments Committee heard from a large number of young Nova Scotians who object to the elimination of the Graduate Retention Rebate. I think one young Nova Scotian, Robert Parker, put it best when he said, "Given the disappointing results since the Ivany report came out, even those of us who are most committed to living and working in Nova Scotia are thinking about whether it makes sense to stay, and for how long."

I'd like to ask the Premier, at a time when our province needs more young people than ever, why is his government disappointing them instead of making it easier for them to stay?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I think what most of the presenters said yesterday is that the program, the GRR program, did not do what it was intended to do. What they were actually concerned about was the fact that all that money was not put back into reducing tuition or rebate programs.

[Page 2395]

What we have heard loud and clear from university graduates, community college graduates, graduates from high school, is that they need a job, something to attach them to the workforce. What we have done is targeted job creation opportunities for the people of this province and young Nova Scotians, to get an opportunity to work and raise their families in this province. Like every government, we will continue to work on the affordability of post-secondary education.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, in fact what we heard over and over again last night from our young, best and brightest, is that they feel betrayed by this government which cancelled the Graduate Retention Rebate program with nothing to take its place. In fact, they are looking for jobs.

We have a report, the Ivany report, that makes many recommendations on how to turn the economy around but this government in its first budget turned its back on the Ivany report and has nothing in place to get going on creating the jobs that we all so desperately want, particularly our young, best and brightest, so no wonder they are disappointed, Mr. Speaker.

I would like to ask the Premier, where in the Ivany report does it say to find new ways to disappoint young Nova Scotians and send them away?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, that is one of the most pathetic questions I've ever heard in this House. This government will continue to work with the business community across this province to provide good opportunities for university and community college graduates to stay and work in this province.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, what is pathetic is that a whole group of young Nova Scotians, our best and brightest, had to come down to Province House and demand action from a government that has two sessions of this House under its belt, and six months, and a road map to success from the Ivany report, that sits back and does nothing but disappoint them and listen to them tell the government that they are betrayed by a government that cancels their one hope of a job here, that gives young Nova Scotians the highest tax increase in our province's history. That is what is pathetic.

I'll ask the Premier this, the title of the Ivany report is Now or Never, so how long will young Nova Scotians have to wait before they actually do something positive for them, instead of take things away?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, what we have done is invested in young Nova Scotians. We've broadened the apprenticeship opportunities in this province. For decades people have been telling us we had to do something about apprenticeship opportunities in this province. In six months we delivered for the people of this province. Young Nova Scotians who want to do research have had to leave this province and go to Ontario and other parts of Canada. We've delivered for those university graduates.

[Page 2396]

One of the things the Ivany report said was we need to engage the private sector - this government is engaging the private sector to create job opportunities for those university and community college graduates here at home.

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

PREM.: HEALTH REGIONS - AMALGAMATION

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Premier.

As we've seen in Alberta, despite repeated assurances that amalgamating their former nine health regions into one would save millions in administrative costs, those savings have not materialized and costs have skyrocketed. Last week the Minister of Health and Wellness said the cost of amalgamating Nova Scotia's nine DHAs would be "minimal".

My question for the Premier is, would the Premier explain what areas the department has identified that will add to this minimal cost of amalgamation?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I think what has been said prior to the last election, during the last election, and since the last election, is what we're going to be doing is taking the savings out of administration and drive into front-line health care. What we're going to take instead of an administrative-focused health care system, we're going to make sure it's focused on patients.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my office has obtained, through the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and I'll table it, a briefing note regarding amalgamation costs. The Department of Health and Wellness has identified a whole slew of early costs associated with DHA amalgamation - consultant costs, staff costs, travel costs, information technology and systems change costs, including SAP requirements - and we know that could end up being a bit expensive - polling and communication costs, new board costs, and severance costs. These are the early costs.

Now that we know the department knows there will be a lot of costs for DHA amalgamation, why won't the Premier tell Nova Scotians how much his reorganization of health care is really going to cost?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm sure the honourable member would know that would be advice to the minister. Unlike the former government, we will take the best possible advice and ensure the decisions we make are in the best interests of all Nova Scotians and we will ensure that our health care system is focused on patients and not administration.

[Page 2397]

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, if the Premier would check he would see that health care administrative costs went down by 2 per cent under the previous administration. His plan is going to add to the administrative costs of health care in the province. The Minister of Health and Wellness has repeatedly said that he could not provide an estimate of the cost of the DHA amalgamation because estimates have not yet been developed, but that same briefing note says there are estimates for all the categories that I have outlined today and the briefing note indicates the financial component has been approved.

Mr. Speaker, unless the Premier is prepared to tell this House that he has given the Minister of Health and Wellness a blank cheque for DHA amalgamation, I again ask the Premier, what are the estimated costs for the health board amalgamation?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, on the election of October 8th Nova Scotians said no longer will blank cheques be delivered by any government in this province and they gave the government who wrote blank cheques their walking papers. I want to ensure what I have given the Minister of Health and Wellness is my full confidence on his ability to deliver patient-focused health care.

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

PREM.: MANUFACTURING EXPORTS - IVANY REPT. RECOMMENDATIONS

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. It turns out that Nova Scotia's manufacturing exports fell again last month and are now down almost 9 per cent over the past year - and I will table that for the benefit of the House. That is the worst performance in all of Canada. The Ivany report specifically says we should focus on manufacturing jobs because those are good jobs. They hear the Premier saying that's not his problem, that's up to the private sector.

I will ask the Premier, in light of this abysmal performance in such an important area of our economy, what more evidence does he need to take some action instead of being hands-off when it comes to the Ivany report recommendations?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I think if he actually continued to read the Ivany report, what it says is those decisions should not be made by Cabinet; they should be made by an arm's-length board of business leaders. That's why we've created Invest Nova Scotia and that is why we're expanding the opportunity for NSBI to respond to that.

Mr. Speaker, our government will continue to deliver, to ensure that not only the manufacturing sector but every small business in this province gets an opportunity to hire highly-qualified, trained individuals in this province.

[Page 2398]

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, here are some decisions that have been made by the Cabinet under the new government: we pay the highest taxes in the country, the young graduates got the biggest tax increase - 275 per cent - in our province's history; they're going to drive our provincial debt up by another $0.5 billion this year and $1 billion in total under their mandate using their own budget numbers. Those are decisions made by the Cabinet that they take ownership of but when it comes to implementing the Ivany report, a road map to turn our economy around, they are hands-off and say no, that's for somebody else to do.

Mr. Speaker, that's not good enough. No wonder so many young Nova Scotians came here last night to say they feel betrayed by this government. So I'll ask the Premier, when will he listen to the very young Nova Scotians who want to see a real plan, like the Ivany report, in place in this House to turn the economy around and create jobs?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, we listen to all Nova Scotians.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, we had a whole group of young Nova Scotians here looking for leadership from this government to turn the economy around, to follow the Ivany report, to do what it takes to get our economy in a better place, through less regulation and lower taxes and real opportunities. What they got for all the listening the government claims is a 275 per cent increase in their income tax if they stay in Nova Scotia.

Nowhere in the Ivany report does it say to find new ways to send young Nova Scotia graduates away but that's what they got from this government, Mr. Speaker. There is a reason that the Ivany report is called Now or Never. One young Nova Scotian was very clear last night that what they hear from this government is that when they asked for hope, the answer they got from the Liberal Government is "never".

I'd like to ask the Premier, why has he chosen "never" when so many young Nova Scotians need help now?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, we'll continue to work with Nova Scotians to provide them the opportunities here at home. One of the things in the last six months is this government provided more opportunities for young people in Nova Scotia. I'm very proud of the fact that the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board has laid out a very realistic plan of where we are when it comes to the budgeting process.

We've engaged Nova Scotians. We're going to continue to work with the business community across this province, to drive good job opportunities here in Nova Scotia.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou West.

[Page 2399]

LAE: C.B. UNEMPLOYMENT - GOV'T. RESPONSE

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, through you my question is for the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. The economy in Nova Scotia has been stalled for years and we obviously need a jump start. Statistics Canada released its regional data that shows a three-month moving average for labour force characteristics. In Cape Breton over the last five years, as of March 2014, population has decreased by 5,900; labour force has decreased by 2,800. The current unemployment rate is 16.3 per cent and there are currently 9,400 unemployed people in Cape Breton. I will table that document.

Is the minister aware of the increased unemployment in Cape Breton and perhaps the minister can share with the members of this House what steps the Liberal Government has taken to address this alarming show of stats for the Cape Breton region specifically?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, one of the things that should be clear to the member opposite is that we are putting together a plan that helps create the playing field for business to succeed. Government doesn't create jobs; we've been very clear on that. The private sector creates jobs. Our job is to make it possible for businesses, including small and medium-size businesses here in Nova Scotia, to succeed. Thank you.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : Unfortunately, Cape Breton Island is not the only area in Nova Scotia suffering from high unemployment rates. Over the same period of time, southern Nova Scotia has seen a decrease by 4,800. Full-time employment has decreased by 5,700, the labour force has decreased by 5,100, and the population has decreased by 4,500. The unemployment rate is 14.3 per cent, and there are 7,700 people who are unemployed.

Is the minister aware of these recently-released stats, and if so, what steps is the minister taking to address the unemployment rate and decreased population, specifically in southern Nova Scotia?

MS. REGAN « » : Thank you to the member opposite for the question. I would remind the member opposite that the Yarmouth ferry would be a perfect example of what this government has done to increase employment in southwestern Nova Scotia.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : Youth in Nova Scotia are struggling, and just last night in the Law Amendments Committee I listened to over 40 very articulate and inspiring students who are struggling. Jobs are not here for them, and on top of that, graduates have just received the biggest tax increase they will probably ever see. Over the past five years, our young people between the ages of 15 and 24 have seen their population decrease by 7,200, full-time employment decrease by 4,000, and part-time employment decrease by 3,000. The unemployment rate for this age group across the province is 20 per cent.

Why hasn't the minister done anything to spur on the labour force for young people, where one in five are unemployed?

[Page 2400]

MS. REGAN « » : I don't know where the member opposite has been, but we've had a number of announcements recently that speak directly to young people. For example, our special operating agency - the bill that is in fact before this House - is one of the things that we are doing to help young Nova Scotians train quicker than they have in the past, have a more effective system, and find good jobs here in Nova Scotia.

We have the Graduate to Opportunities program, which my colleague the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism will be unveiling shortly, and to which we have alluded repeatedly. We have also created a Graduate Scholarship program, which we announced last week, and which was an initiative that was put forward by Students Nova Scotia and supported by CONSUP, the organization that all the university presidents participate in.

There are a variety of different things that we have done for young Nova Scotians to try to make sure that they get the jobs that they are entitled to, Mr. Speaker, and I would point out that in 2008 we saw young males in particular take a huge drop in employment. Those young men are some of the people that we are going to be focusing our efforts on in the coming years, because they are not in the workforce, and we think that's a shame.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: DHA AMALGAMATION - COSTS RELEASE

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. The Canadian Institute for Health Information, or CIHI, has noted that health care administrative cost ratios have been declining in Nova Scotia, from 6.3 per cent in 2008-09 to an estimated 4.59 per cent in 2013. That's a 2 per cent decrease in four years that the cost of Nova Scotia's health administration has been reduced, in fact, to the levels of other provinces in the country.

According to the briefing note that I tabled earlier, we now know that the Health and Wellness Department has identified that DHA amalgamation costs will include everything from hiring consultants to polling and severance, and those costs will be anything but minimal.

My question for the Minister of Health and Wellness is, why are the minister and the Premier avoiding letting the public know what these costs are going to be?

HON. LEO GLAVINE » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to respond to that question. One of the notes that the member opposite has made is a catalogue of areas in which some costs can be incurred during the restructuring process. But one of the great discoveries that I have made that perhaps the former minister hadn't, and that is the great expertise that is in our province, in our Department of Health and Wellness - we are not using any outside consultants.

[Page 2401]

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, that is very good to know, but there are a slew of other costs associated with this amalgamation - it's here in this briefing note in black and white. The Minister of Health and Wellness has been attempting to downplay the cost of consolidating health boards suggesting it will be minimal. However, according to the minister's own briefing note: "There will be costs incurred in transition year and the first years of implementation." That's "years", plural - with an "s".

My question through you to the minister is, how many years will Nova Scotia see administrative costs increase due to the DHA amalgamation?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, we are taking a very thoughtful and strategically planned move into the one or two health boards, the IWK and the provincial board. We don't plan to do it all in one year. We're going to respect a lot of the good number of the leaders in our health care system and allow attrition to assist us, which will be a big part of moving towards a smaller number of administrators throughout the province. So whether it will be two or three years to accomplish that, that's up to the transition and advisory group who have now started their work under the very capable direction and leadership of former CEO Pat Lee.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, Alberta, New Brunswick, and now Nova Scotia's own experience under the last Liberal Government has shown that the costs of health administration rise under health care reorganization schemes. According to an article in the Edmonton Journal from January 2011: "The first full fiscal year with that new health authority in charge saw administration costs rise to $390 million, an increase of $46 million - or 13 per cent - over one year."

My last question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, when will the minister finally reveal what the estimated cost of amalgamating the boards will be, and for how many years will Nova Scotia be paying the bill for this with health care dollars?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to respond to that question. I know that probably by September we'll have a better idea of what it may cost and the time period. We've allowed Pat Lee to provide a great deal of work over the next four months on giving us the final structure. One thing I know for sure is that when we finish the process, we will have a leaner and more responsive administrative team that puts the emphasis on leadership and quality patient care first and foremost.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

ERDT - SOUTHWESTERN N.S.: BROADBAND UPDATE - GOV'T. ACTIONS

[Page 2402]

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, people in southwestern Nova Scotia are very unhappy with the service provided by Eastlink Communications, their broadband service. On a good day their service is probably somewhere near dial-up, and yet they're paying full price for their broadband fees. Today I introduced two petitions with about 700 signatures of people who are disappointed with this service.

My question to the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism is, since this service was partially funded by government, what actions can the department take to bring these residents into the current century?

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for the question. This is a subject that we had the opportunity to discuss with some of his colleagues in the Official Opposition during estimates. The fact was the broadband initiative for Nova Scotia was announced in 2006 - I believe he may have been part of the government of the day - and it was an ambitious announcement at the time and an ambitious goal.

We are now the third government that has been dealing with this issue and we're disappointed by the fact that there still remain a number of people both in southwestern Nova Scotia and in the Valley area who do not have connectivity or, as the member is pointing out, the level of service is not what anyone would describe as being high speed.

What I can tell the member is that the contract with Eastlink expires at the end of December of this year. We have been in communication with the company to express our disappointment that there are still too many Nova Scotians without high-speed service in the area in question and we are starting to hear more about service issues for those who are connected. I can assure the member that there are continued discussions taking place and we do hope that Eastlink will be bringing a proposal forward to resolve this.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : We know there are a lot of logistics involved in this one as well but in 2014, to say that you have broadband service, you have the connection, you have the wireless system there but you're only connecting at speeds somewhere close to dial-up - it's really not acceptable.

To add insult to injury to the residents along that corridor of the No. 3 Highway that goes from Pubnico Head, through East Pubnico, through Woods Harbour, into Shag Harbour and on to Barrington, there is cable. Maybe not of a service that can provide Internet but at least the wires are going by there. We know of at least two fibre connections that go through that area as well, so why can they not piggy-back off that?

My question to the minister is, really if the contract is coming due and they might put another RFP out or negotiate with Eastlink, I'm just wondering which way is he going with this one? If they're not going to be able to provide the service that is acceptable to Nova Scotians, will he put that out for another RFP?

[Page 2403]

MR. SAMSON « » : Well it would be premature to judge what's going to happen, in light of the fact that the contract does continue until the end of December of this year. But in the meantime, our government certainly has not been waiting for that day. I've had the opportunity to hold a number of meetings on this subject, to try to encourage a resolution and try to ensure that people have high-speed service, regardless of where they live in the province.

The member is probably also aware that the federal government recently announced funding would be coming to increase the speed up to 5 BPS I think is the term, but five is the number. I know that many Nova Scotians are not achieving that now so we wait to see exactly how the federal government is going to provide such funding and we'll certainly be there as a partner if such funding is made available, to try to ensure that not only we address the connectivity issues, which are still outstanding, but as well that we make sure that Nova Scotians are getting the quality high speed they need in order to maintain our province's competitive edge in that regard. Merci.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : Je remercie le ministre pour sa réponse, mais en même temps, I think what we need to understand is that these people are unable to do the work that they really need to do. If you're putting remittances in with CRA, if you're doing some basic Internet, like sending a picture to a friend or even cruising on Facebook, they really can't do it. We know what Facebook does to the rest of us; it is our way to keep connected to the area.

I know the member for Yarmouth, the Minister of Natural Resources - there are people in his constituency like the Pinkneys Point area, around Melbourne and into Comeau's Hill who are having the same kind of connection problem. I know we really need to work hard to ensure that they are brought into the current century.

Hearing all the answers that the minister has given, maybe I'll just give him another opportunity to give a little synopsis on how this is going to unroll because again, there are lots of moving pieces, lots of people who are involved in it. Is it just working with Eastlink or is it going to be a program that's going to be rolled out to other players?

MR. SAMSON « » : Merci M. le Président, et merci à mon collègue. C'est sans question : avoir accès à l'Internet à haute vitesse, selon moi - je l'ai dit à plusieurs reprises ici à la Maison - c'est la même chose qu'avoir accès à l'électricité. C'est une nécessité, ce n'est pas un privilège, mais c'est quelque chose à quoi tous les gens en Nouvelle-Écosse ont le droit.

Puisqu'ils s'attendent à avoir ce service-là, Mr. Speaker, what I can tell the honourable member - it's always great to see the use of both official languages here in the House (Applause) - it's a fact that we will be working closely with the federal government.

[Page 2404]

I guess as I told the member's colleagues during the Budget Estimates, there are discussions taking place. I'm not at liberty to share those discussions on the floor of the House, but I want to assure the member and all colleagues that we take this matter very seriously. We are encouraging Eastlink to come up with a solution to this, and we are hopeful that this is going to happen.

Those discussions will continue to take place, and the minute we're in a position to provide more information I assure you, Mr. Speaker, that we will make all members and all Nova Scotians aware of how exactly we are going to address this issue. Merci.

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

PREM.: GRADS/STUDENTS - FUNDING REDUCTIONS

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Premier. Last night approximately 40 Nova Scotian students and young graduates appeared at Law Amendments Committee to tell us how the government and the Premier had betrayed them. To demonstrate this betrayal the Dalhousie Student Union presented a lengthy list of broken promises the Liberals had made, which I will table.

Mr. Speaker, prior to the election, the Premier and members of his Cabinet made it very clear they were going to make university more affordable and improve programs that could help retain graduates in Nova Scotia. Instead, what has the Premier done in his first budget? He has cut $50 million that supported students and graduates, money that has not been reinvested.

Mr. Speaker, this is a far cry from comments made by the Premier on November 23, 2011, when he was in Opposition, "We should be doing everything we can to encourage our young people to learn and work in Nova Scotia."

My question for the Premier is, how is taking $50 million away from students and grads and not reinvesting it in programs that would encourage them to learn and work in Nova Scotia, doing everything he can?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to remind the honourable member that not one student actually was receiving any of that money. Students have told us loudly and clearly that they want an opportunity to work in this province. What we've done is targeted towards job creation, to provide those young people with a job in this province so they can stay here, work, and raise their families.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, it's unfortunate that the Premier didn't have an opportunity to hear the students first-hand last night, because student leaders spoke of their frustration that the Liberal Government had used their expressed desire for improvements to the Graduate Retention Rebate as an excuse to eliminate the program - this is not what students had been asking for.

[Page 2405]

Once again, this is not the Liberal Government they were promised just six months ago. On October 5, 2009, the current Health and Wellness Minister said that we always had the ability to improve and move forward with a retention program that I think can be much more based on accessibility and in lowering tuition rates.

So my question to the Premier is, in cutting the Graduate Retention Rebate and not reinvesting most of that money back into programs for students, where is the program the Minister of Health and Wellness spoke about in Opposition that would be based in accessibility and in lowering tuition rates?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, one of the things that the Leader of the New Democratic Party is not telling Nova Scotians is that all of the information, all of the history of this program, shows it wasn't working. She suggested we should continue to plow money into programs that aren't working. What we've clearly said is that this is about job creation. We need to provide opportunities for young university, community college, and high school students to get a job here in this province. We are targeting towards working with small-business owners to ensure that happens; we've invested in research opportunities.

While they were in government, young Nova Scotians were leaving this province to do research in other parts of Canada. We've said that's not good enough; let's invest in research and give them an opportunity here. We continue to do some of the work that I know the member for Cape Breton Centre was working on when he was Minister of Labour and Advanced Education, which was ensuring that more apprentice opportunities are here in Nova Scotia - that's what we're investing in. It's about creating a job in this province so that young Nova Scotians can stay and work at home.

MS. MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, probably the most common theme from last night was that the Premier and government members, who said they were on the side of students when they were in Opposition, are ignoring the concerns that students have now that they are in government. My question for the Premier isn't actually my own question, it's a question that was first asked by the member for Bedford when she was in Opposition, "Why is it okay to be on the side of students when you are in Opposition and then ignore them when you go into government?"

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, first of all I want to thank the honourable member for such a great question. I think it's the best one of the three she's provided so far. I agree with her. I agree with her. It's why we put investment in job opportunities in this province for young Nova Scotians. But there's no question, there's more work to be done and this government will continue to work with student leaders, university presidents, and people across this province to ensure we can make sure university is affordable for all young Nova Scotians.

[Page 2406]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

HEALTH & WELLNESS: HOSPITALS - CONDITIONS

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you this afternoon is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. A couple of weeks ago we learned that the palliative care patients were spending their final days in a rodent-infested ward. Last week we found out that the cardiovascular intensive care unit is dealing with a scabies outbreak. Patients and families are at their most vulnerable when they enter a health care system, yet they continue to be subjected to second-rate conditions. My question to the minister is, what does he say to the Nova Scotians who are looking for health care but are finding mice and mites?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, those are conditions that are unacceptable in terms of the total requirements of good, quality patient care. With respect to their environment, we do know - all Nova Scotians know - that the Centennial Building is in a very deteriorated condition. What I can assure the member for Argyle-Barrington is that both those situations now are well under control and the one guarantee that I know, and he as a former minister knows, is that there is no second-rate care at the QEII.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I didn't say the care was second rate, I definitely said the conditions were second rate. For a long time we've been dealing with issues, especially with the Centennial Building. This was a bit of a disturbing trend though and I think the communication issue that was underlying is one that will continue to be important for the minister because I believe he needs to know things are happening when they are happening, not a couple of days late, which I think is what happened in both of these instances right now.

How is the minister going to stay on top of these issues because it's he and his department that can make these changes to make patients' lives more bearable, when they're in a facility like the Centennial Building?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, one of the approaches that is being taken immediately at the QEII is taking a look at all of the units in terms of their physical environment while they also do some staff assessment. This will be an ongoing challenge to make sure that a deteriorating environment is looked after as fully as possible to make sure that people's stay, long or short, does not have to deal with the issues that we have had in the last couple of weeks.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : It seems like it was just yesterday, but it was quite some time ago when we were having problems in the transition unit in that same building, where it did get closed down and the patients got transferred to other units in the system. I'm wondering, is there an opportunity to re-look at the way we're providing care, especially when it comes to the Centennial Building, so that outbreaks like rodents and mice and scabies will not continue to plague our system, and to allow surgeries and procedures to be done in our health care system? We can't allow these things to happen, so that our system doesn't continue to get bogged down with those kinds of issues.

[Page 2407]

Maybe the minister can talk quickly about how we are going to move on from this. How can we identify other places for these individuals to go to get the life-changing services that they need from our health care system?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Having met with some of the management from the QEII to do everything that they can in terms of making sure that pest control - also that housekeeping has a more robust approach to making sure that rooms do get the kind of cleaning, and all of the important hygienic practices are indeed taking place. Currently, staff are getting somewhat of a to-do list as well, in terms of taking all the kinds of precautions that will mean safety for themselves as health care providers, as well as the patients that they come in contact with each and every day.

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

PREM.: GAS TAXES - POSITION

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question through you today is to the Premier.

In a video produced for the Nova Scotia Liberal Party, the newly-elected Leader of the Liberal Party said in 2008, "We have the second highest gas taxes in the country. The only thing . . ." we have any ". . . control over at all, is the tax we charge on a litre of gas." They - the PC Government of the day - ". . . just don't have the resolve to make it happen."

I'd like to ask the Premier, why can't the Premier just agree that he doesn't have the same resolve that he talked about in Opposition now that he is in government?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to first of all thank the honourable member for reviewing some of the messages that I've been trying to deliver over the last seven years. I want to thank him for the question. It's a very serious issue that many Nova Scotians are feeling the cost of the rise of gasoline in this province. It's why, when I meet with the Premiers of Atlantic Canada in May, I've committed to talking about decoupling the tax so that we do not charge the HST on top of the motive fuel tax here in Atlantic Canada. I'm looking forward to having that conversation on behalf of Nova Scotians.

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : Now that the Liberals are in power, the Premier has changed his tune once again. On Friday the Premier suggested in The Chronicle Herald that the only way to move forward with changes to gas pricing in Nova Scotia is to go at it with the other Maritime Provinces - the answer the Premier just gave. But, Mr. Speaker, once again I'll remind the Premier that when he was in Opposition he said that the only thing we have any control over at all - that's our province that he was talking about - is the gas tax charge on a litre of gas. This is just another example that the Premier was saying one thing prior to the election and doing something else when he is in government.

[Page 2408]

I would ask the Premier very nicely, why has the Premier changed his tune, now that he's in government?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the nice question. With all seriousness, as I've said to this House, I will be talking to the other Atlantic Premiers in May, when I meet with them in New Brunswick, to look at decoupling the HST from motive fuel tax in this province, which in my view would not only provide relief to the motoring public but I think it's the right thing for Atlantic governments to do, in conjunction with the federal government.

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, all we are trying to do is make sure that Nova Scotians understand the true position of the government. We know their position in Opposition; it's a little different now in government. Even the Premier's own Finance and Treasury Board Minister doesn't agree with him. She said in the same article that I just tabled that it would be really irresponsible to start rebating taxes or changing our tax system in a way that would just put us deeper in the hole.

I know with those concerns from the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board, it was on the Premier's position, I believe it may be his first position or the second one or maybe the new one that he has now, Mr. Speaker. I would like to ask the Premier, could he clarify to all Nova Scotians, what is his position on taking the tax off tax off the gasoline price here in Nova Scotia?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I've said in the previous two questions I'm going to engage the Atlantic Premiers on ensuring that we look at decoupling the tax so we don't charge the HST on the motive fuel tax. Of course we'll need the support of the federal government.

I want to remind the honourable member, just imagine how much we could reduce the taxes in this province if they hadn't given so much away in the last four years.

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

NAT. RES. - HIKE N.S./MIN.: HIKING STRATEGY - CREATE

[Page 2409]

MR. JOACHIM STROINK « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. Hiking is a healthy and affordable activity that most Nova Scotians are able to participate in and Nova Scotia is home to a great number of hiking and coastal trails and stakeholders are looking for ways to better use and maintain them.

Mr. Speaker, will the minister work with Hike Nova Scotia to create a hiking strategy to promote greater usage for our existing trails and our trail inventory that we have now?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question. I first want to thank all the great volunteers in various communities across this province who have done incredible work getting our trails operational and functioning. I think there's great potential there, not just for economic and tourism benefits but also for health and wellness in the province.

I'm happy to meet with Hike Nova Scotia or any other stakeholders that are interested in developing this great asset that we have in the province and ensuring that all Nova Scotians and visitors to the province reap the benefits. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg.

HEALTH & WELLNESS - ESBRIET: PHARMACARE COVERAGE - EXTEND

MR. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you will be to the Minister of Health and Wellness. I can't say that it will be a nice question but it's a very serious question.

Mr. Speaker, pulmonary fibrosis is a devastating lung disease affecting thousands of people across the country. As the disease progresses, individuals have a very low quality of life and suffer each day. A new drug approved by Health Canada is Esbriet, which can improve lungs and extend the lives of those affected. However, it is not covered in Nova Scotia and it does cost $40,000 a year.

My question to the minister is, will the minister consider extending provincial Pharmacare coverage to this new drug?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, what I can tell the member opposite is that in the next few weeks it is one of those briefings and reviews that we will be taking a look at in the department. I am very familiar, having met national representatives who have provided background on the devastating impacts of this disease. It's an area that we will be getting more information, especially around the new treatment that is available.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the minister for that answer. Individuals and their families are reaching out to their government because this drug offers them hope. Environmental exposure to contaminants like coal dust, silica and asbestos are believed to be the leading causes of this disease - and I'll table the document to that effect.

[Page 2410]

As the minister knows, exposure to these materials is something many Nova Scotians have endured while working in industries like steel manufacturing and coal mining and because of our special circumstances, the province should immediately look into the coverage of Esbriet. Will the minister commit to looking at Esbriet coverage based on these special circumstances of the individuals of our province?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member opposite for that question. These people have developed this lung condition through no fault of theirs, very often induced by the workplace conditions that they laboured in, and I think it's an important issue for us to review in the coming weeks and get some idea of the number of Nova Scotians who are impacted and also review with some other jurisdictions how they've gone about dealing with this new treatment.

MR. MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, again, thank you to the minister. Over time the shortness of breath patients experience begins to deprive vital organs of the necessary oxygen needed to survive. Without a lung transplant, life expectancy ranges from only two to five years - and I'll table a document to that effect. Like many of these serious diseases, time is not a friend to these people.

My final question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is, what advice can the minister give families of patients who are suffering from this disease who haven't got a lot of time to advocate and wait for this drug to help their loved one?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Sydney River-Mira- Louisbourg for bringing this to the floor of the Legislature. It is indeed a disease with a debilitating outlook for these patients as time goes along, and it is one we'll need to give consideration to in very short order. Once again, I thank the member for bringing the question to the floor.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

MUN. AFFS. - TROY TRAILER COURT: EVICTIONS - DETAILS

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister responsible for the Residential Tenancies Act. Last night we began to hear about a landlord who is trying to evict residents from the Troy Trailer Court as early as June 11th. From what I understand, the landlord cannot do that unless residents have not paid their rent or if there are issues of poor behaviour.

Residents must be given 12 months' notice, and that only comes after an order is approved by a residential tenancies officer. Will the minister confirm if that is correct?

[Page 2411]

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague across the floor for the question. I certainly want to recognize the anxiety and upheaval that these circumstances are presenting to the residents in this community. The purpose of the Residential Tenancies Act is to provide efficient and cost-effective means for dispute resolution. The Act specifically outlines what's required of landlords in their dealings with tenants and the options available to landlords - and the circumstances that my colleague has presented are, in fact, accurate.

MR. MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, it is reassuring to know for the people who are living there that there is some protection for them. As I understand, residents can file an application to ensure they get the required 12 months. Can the minister explain if that is necessary for all residents to file that application, or if at least one resident files that application will that take care of everybody in the area in question?

MR. FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I know from discussion with staff that individual tenants have had contact with our access centre in Port Hawkesbury, as well as our provincial contact centre. They are being provided the instruction consistent with the legislation in the act to file individual applications for purposes of moving this matter forward.

MR. MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, the residents deserve more respect, I believe, from their landlord. I don't believe this is any way to treat people, to just come out and try to evict people in only a short time of six weeks. Will the minister confirm for those residents today, as he has his past two answers, will the minister confirm that he will use the laws found in the Residential Tenancies Act to protect them for at least the next 12 months so that they have proper time to make arrangements for a new home?

MR. FUREY « » : Again, I thank my colleague for the question. The points being made are very appropriate and I think the bottom line here is that to give legal eviction notices to close these land-lease communities, or any community where there is a tenancy-landlord agreement, the landlord would be required to make that application through the process. I can assure my colleague in Opposition and the residents of this land-lease community that we will apply the legislation as it was intended, to protect the best interest of those homeowners and tenants.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

ABORIGINAL AFFS. - ESKASONI CRISIS LINE:

[Page 2412]

FUNDING - REMOVAL EXPLAIN

HON. FRANK CORBETT « » : My question is for the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, the Premier. Mr. Speaker, the community of Eskasoni was in distress back in 2008 after a series of youth suicides. With the assistance of the federal and provincial governments at the time, a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week crisis line was established. In 2012 the province took over the larger share of that funding when the federal government backed out.

A recent Department of Health and Wellness briefing note obtained under the freedom of information request - and I'll table that in a second, Mr. Speaker - shows that the current Liberal Government will provide no further funding to sustain the Eskasoni hotline. So I want to know, through you to the Premier, will the Premier please explain why his government is removing support from this vital service?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I had the great privilege of being in Eskasoni a few months ago and saw the tremendous work that the community is doing. I felt optimistic, quite frankly, when I left with the fact that so many young people are hopeful for the future, being trained, looking at chances to create their own businesses, create opportunities in that province.

The crisis hotline was part of the conversation that we had with the chief and council; part of that discussion was ensuring that as the crisis hotline, which is actually distributed across the entire province, could be become part of what the Aboriginal community in the province could continually work towards and build into.

MR. CORBETT « » : Mr. Speaker, while I somewhat respect the answer, it didn't go a mile near the question. The fact is that your government is not going to support this crisis line. This crisis line is very unique, as the member for Victoria-the-Lakes who represents it could rightfully say. In this case the government plans to use a one-size-fits-all approach.

This is very important to our First Nation people to have such a crisis line where they can talk to their peers, especially in their own language, and that is very, very important because it is much broader than what the original version had contemplated. As bad as suicides are and were, it expanded into many aspects of communal life within that First Nation community. I want to reiterate and ask the Premier again, why doesn't his government see the value of that line and why won't he invest in it?

THE PREMIER « » : We absolutely see the value in that service, it's why we are ensuring that the crisis hotline across the province deals with the issues the member brought forward around language and in the culture, Mr. Speaker. We want to ensure that all Aboriginal communities will be covered by a broad-based program across the province. We're continuing that conversation with leaders, with chiefs in every Aboriginal community in this province, to ensure that they feel they're receiving the services from their government that they deserve.

[Page 2413]

I want to congratulate the Minister of Health and Wellness, who I know has met with a number of the chiefs on this very issue as recently as today. Let's be clear, this government is going to continue to invest to ensure that Aboriginal communities and every community across this province get access to a hotline, to ensure that we will be there for any Nova Scotian who feels in need of support.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre, 15 seconds.

MR. CORBETT « » : Mr. Speaker, I would be much more reassured had the Premier said they would all have it, maybe in particular two First Nations, but I'm worried about the program now, because I'm afraid it will not be expanded.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The time allotted for Oral Question Period has expired. We'll now move on to the order of business, Government Business.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER « » : Just before we move on, I'd like to take this opportunity to do an introduction of some very special guests who have joined us in the Speaker's Gallery. If everybody would direct their attention, I would take great pleasure in introducing former MLAs who are here on the second reading of the XMLAS Bill.

We are pleased to have with us the Honourable Jim Smith, who served as MLA for Dartmouth East from 1984 to 2003. We're also extremely pleased to have with us the Chairperson of the XMLAS Association, the fantastic Jeremy Akerman, who served as MLA for Cape Breton East from 1970 to 1980.

It is indeed a great pleasure to have with us the Honourable Alexa McDonough, former New Democratic Party member and, of course, Leader of the provincial Party from 1980 to 1994, as well as our federal Leader of the New Democratic Party from 1995 to 2003. The Honourable Alexa McDonough. (Applause)

I will invite more XMLAS here, because this is the quietest Question Period we've had in several days. It's just like having our parents in attendance.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, in light of our guests who are here, would you please call the order of business, Private and Local Bills for Second Reading.

PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR SECOND READING

[Page 2414]

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 59.

Bill No. 59 - XMLAS Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Clare-Digby.

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 59, an Act to Incorporate XMLAS, be read for a second time.

Mr. Speaker, first I'd like to thank the House for the privilege of presenting this bill. I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize Jeremy Akerman and the Association of XMLAS. This association had its first annual meeting on December 21, 2013. At this time, the association agreed to seek incorporation by an Act of the Legislature.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Akerman and was advised that the association currently has 104 active members, with 20 or 30 more waiting to join. I would encourage everybody in this House to be involved in that when their day comes.

This association has already been engaged in discussions about democratic processes with several groups, including the Springtide Collective, schools, Girl Guide groups, and Elections Nova Scotia. I believe that you even had the opportunity just recently to engage in some interesting dialogue with the association over a meal last weekend, Mr. Speaker, so congratulations to you.

Mr. Speaker, this is a non-partisan organization with an opportunity to foster good relations for current members in the future and promote the democratic process. I would ask that all members have favourable consideration for this bill. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, and I want to thank the member for bringing this bill forward, having spoken to a number of ex-MLAs over the last few weeks talking about the good work of Mr. Akerman and the members of that new organization.

All of us have the opportunity to serve our communities. The average for an MLA is about seven years - some of us of course are here longer and some are here shorter terms, but you know what? After this experience, this honour, I think a lot of people have a lot to continue to offer our communities. We have a wealth of information from our experiences here and as we move on to the other parts of our careers, of our lives, I think we would want to continue serving our communities, talking about democracy, talking about the things that are important to us here today, and will be important to us 20 years hence.

[Page 2415]

Again, I thank the member for bringing this bill forward, one that I look forward to supporting the XMLAS and looking forward to a day - maybe not in the near future, but in a day that I can be a member of the XMLAS as well. Thank you.

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

HON. MAUREEN MACDONALD « » : Mr. Speaker, I too am pleased to have an opportunity to rise in my place and speak in support of this bill.

I thank the member for Clare-Digby for bringing this forward and I'm sure this association will have a long and distinguished period of operation and will fill, for many people who have had the privilege of serving in this Chamber, it will give them an opportunity to reflect on those experiences and share some good collegial times reminiscing, and also perhaps having an opportunity to contribute to the supporting and the mentoring of members who come to this Chamber and have this incredible privilege that we are given. It's something that I, and I know all of us are aware that not very many of the people in our province have such an honour and have such an opportunity. Certainly this association is one that we all welcome its creation and wish it every success in its future endeavours. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : If I recognize the member it will be to close the debate.

The honourable member for Clare-Digby.

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I move second reading of Bill No. 59.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 59. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I wonder if it would be fair to say that if Ms. McDonough was on the floor of this House and had seen a member try to move from second reading to third reading such as that, she may have been "shocked and appalled" to see a majority Liberal Government trying to abuse the parliamentary process in such a way. Fortunately she's here overseeing to make sure that does not happen today and I'm happy to report we will proceed to the Private and Local Bills Committee and then bring it back for third reading.

[Page 2416]

Mr. Speaker, would you please now call Bill No. 50.

Bill No. 50 - St. Francis Xavier University Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie.

MR. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise in my place to move second reading of Bill No. 50.

As an alumnus, I want to thank the House for the privilege of presenting this bill for second reading which contains clauses to update and refresh the governance of this venerable university.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia is blessed with an abundance of exemplary universities, of which St. Francis Xavier is a proud member. It is remarkable that this House has no fewer than five members who wear the distinctive X ring with pride. I would therefore ask for the favourable consideration of the members for this bill for second reading.

I would move second reading of this bill, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

MR. ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie for respecting the intent of the legislation that is being brought forward.

Mr. Speaker, for 160 years the chancellor at St. F.X. has been the bishop. Of what significance is that? Well I believe it was in 1827 that the penal laws were finally repealed in this province and the following year Father William MacLeod, the pioneer of higher education in the diocese of Antigonish, wrote a letter to Bishop Plessis with the idea of starting a school. That school became St. F.X.

AN HON. MEMBER: Where did it start?

MR. MACMASTER « » : I'm coming to that. But prior to that, and prior to that development, going back to 1758 when the penal laws were in effect, Catholics could not sit in this Legislature; they could not vote; they could not purchase land and their children couldn't be educated in their faith. So what standing did these people have in society before that was changed? If they did violate any of those measures, they could have their goods confiscated. On a second offence they could face punishment of banishment and on a third offence they could receive punishment of death.

[Page 2417]

Mr. Speaker, St. F.X. began in the heart of Father William MacLeod and it was through the charity of the faithful believers, people from Antigonish, from Guysborough, from Pictou, from Richmond, from Inverness, and I could probably name people from just about every corner of this province, it was these people who gave their donations and gave their sons and daughters to the church who chose to become the priests and sisters, who would form the faculty and staff that created St. F.X.

Mr. Speaker, that was all under the guidance and support of the nine bishops who have served in that time as chancellors of St. F.X. This bill removes the bishop as chancellor and sends a clear message about where the Board of Governors wants St. F.X. to go. It wants St. F.X. to go away from its roots, Mr. Speaker.

I am opposed to this legislation and I ask you to join me, to withhold its passage until there is broad consultation with the St. F.X. community. I would ask that the members opposite listen to this speech because there has not been broad consultation. I think the members opposite will want to take that into account before they try to pass it in this sitting of the Legislature.

Mr. Speaker, as the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism correctly pointed out, St. F.X. actually started - the first classes were in Grand Narrows and in East Bay - and eventually it was moved to Arichat because Isle Madame was at the time the See of the Diocese and when it was moved to Antigonish the university was moved to Antigonish.

Mr. Speaker, I'm very curious to see how the government responds to this speech because not a lot of people know about this and as people are starting to find out about it, they are questioning it. So my aim today is to present some of those facts in the Legislature so the members can hear about it and obviously have Opposition members here who have constituents affected by this as well, and they will have a chance to vote on this as well.

Mr. Speaker, I will begin: faith and reason are not opposed. Some people would say that science and religion can never meet to discover the truth. Not so. The very motto of St. F.X., "Whatsoever Things Are True", which comes from a verse of Philippians, reflects a commitment to the intellectual and spiritual development of its students. Whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Mr. Speaker, the dignity of every human person compels the church to begin health and education and provide those services to the masses. Prior to that, education only belonged to the elites. It could also be said that education was sometimes used by the elites to maintain power over the rest of society for the generation of personal wealth.

[Page 2418]

We can see in a speech that I delivered here in the last sitting, in the Fall, on the Gaelic College and how education was used. We all know what happened with the issue with the Gaelic College: the board changed their mind on that, because they had to. There was a public outcry, and it came in part by way of a speech delivered in this Legislature.

Mr. Speaker, I would just finish on that. Education was used through the Statutes of Iona in 1609 to force Gaelic leaders in Scotland to send their sons, their future heirs, to England to be educated there, and distanced from their people and their culture. This action was designed to undermine and destroy the Gaelic language and culture, amongst other measures, which led to the immigration of these peoples to many of our constituencies here in Nova Scotia.

Today, because the church took an active role in bringing health care and education to the masses, there are 117,000 Catholic schools, universities, and hospitals throughout the world. In Nova Scotia, when we look - and we just had a budget here - at the Departments of Health and Wellness and Education and Early Childhood Development consisting of 60 per cent of the budget, it's very obvious what value the church played in those institutions, providing those services to people, albeit doing their works through charitable donations. It was great value for the province achieved through that.

One could say, get with the times - we don't need the bishop or the leadership that founded St. F.X., but to that I say, vision and principles, especially those that founded St. F.X., never go out of style. What is the point of tradition at St. F.X.? Well, I think of one of its most prized achievements: the Antigonish Movement, championed by a couple of priests, Father Jimmy Tompkins and Father Moses Coady. The idea was to help the common man and woman to participate in the economy by removing the control of the established elites. More money stayed in the pockets of these people, and they built a better future.

Why were priests doing this work? Because they were at St. F.X., a school that provided them with the knowledge and freedom to focus on whatsoever things are true. Father Coady was quoted one time, Mr. Speaker - and I can only imagine he was probably questioned about why he, as a priest, would have anything to do with this type of activity - but he was quoted as saying, "We consider it good pedagogy and good psychology to begin with the economic phase . . . that we may the more readily attain the spiritual and cultural toward which all our efforts are directed."

Good things were happening at St. F.X. because of that spiritual power. The faithful person would say that they were happening with the direction taken by the bishop and chancellor at the time who sent Father Tompkins to Canso, the very type of place where the co-operative movement was needed most. I'm sure the member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie knows that story and the good works that took place out of Canso, that helped to develop that area.

[Page 2419]

The same bishop responded with the blessing of an extension department and the eventual creation of the Coady Institute, which teaches people from around the world these same principles today. If we did not have the faith of the people with the structure of the church, you would never have had Father Jimmy Tompkins or Father Moses Coady, and you may never have had the Antigonish Movement.

What about the charity that built St. F.X.? Mr. Speaker, we think about the working class, who sometimes paid their children's tuition in food to the university. Donations were made by the working poor with the encouragement of their spiritual leaders. We think that most people in eastern Nova Scotia were probably only coming to the first generation today where they are actually able to pass on some dollar wealth to their children, some inheritances to their children, to their heirs. Before that, these people were from very humble means, but they were still making donations over the past to St. F.X What about the charity in the form of the vow of poverty taken by the men and women who became the priests and sisters who became the professors and staff of St. F.X., dedicating their life to this institution and its principles?

What is driving the introduction of this legislation requested by the board of governors at St. F.X.? We can only surmise that if we are talking about Coady or Tompkins, it is okay, but if we are talking about the principles of the church that created those causes, no, they don't want that anymore. Yet it was this church that created St. F.X., the institution that graduated the first Catholic woman in North America in 1897. This happened largely because of the influence of the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame.

Speaking of Notre Dame, what does that most prestigious university have for its governance model? It is certainly not going in the same direction. Their model honours its founders with six of its 12 fellows being priests. So what is the board of governors doing? Drop the Catholic identity, drop the integrity, drop the motto from the university's logo, which happened in 1998, drop the bishop as chancellor in 2014 - Mr. Speaker, you might as well drop the name St. F. X., St. Francis Xavier because the X spirit that started this storied institution is no longer there. Maybe we should call it the X-University. That way it would be more relevant to a broader group of students.

The Catholic Church is more than about a disgraced bishop who was caught in possession of child pornography. Sadly, it appears the act of this one bishop has managed to shape the minds of the board of governors more than the many great men and women who made the same vows and who made St. F. X.; perhaps the board has lost its faith. When people lose faith they look for reasons to abandon it. St. Francis Xavier had faith and I don't know - and I see a member giving me the thumbs up and showing his ring - but I don't know if a lot of people know the story of St. Francis Xavier but he is considered to be the greatest missionary since the time of the apostles.

[Page 2420]

Most of his missionary work took place during the 1540s throughout India, Japan and China. Oftentimes these saints faced great challenges to their faith, much like the people of the diocese of Antigonish have faced in recent years, but a faith tested is strong and true. I think of a distant cousin of mine who I am most proud of. We would have to go back to Scotland to trace that lineage but she lived in Australia in the 1800s and in 2010 she was made a saint. I recall proudly reading a resolution about that in this Legislature at the time. She is now Saint Mary MacKillop and her life is dedicated to the education of the poor.

I think it's important that we bring to light these kinds of things because so often we hear so many things that are negative about the church and its role in our society today. Her life was dedicated to the education of the poor. She and the spiritual order she began cared for neglected children, for girls in danger, the aged, poor and incurably ill. Her order worked with the people who were forgotten. They followed farmers, railway workers and miners into the developing outback of Australia, sharing the same hardships while educating their children.

Her faith was tested when she was excommunicated for insubordination after maintaining her resolve to continue her work, despite the efforts of others in the church who sought revenge on her order for reporting the abuse of children by a priest. Sound familiar? But she did not lose her faith and in the end her schools reopened and her important work continued.

Contrast the humility of the men and women who gave up their lives with a vow of poverty, the people who became the priests and the sisters who built St. F. X., with those now who wish to have their personal legacies attached to the university, to place their names on buildings and claim the prestige from those we now forget, and in law, forget with the passage of this bill, with the removal of the bishop, the spiritual head of the university, as chancellor. Yes, donations are important and so is humility and it will certainly be worth a lot more in the next world.

The education of so many St. F. X. students happened because of the charity of the highly-educated clergy. This and the work of the Sisters of St. Martha and the donations of local Catholics of modest means, subsidized the educational experience of those who wear and still wear the X ring.

Mr. Speaker, I was on the Internet not long ago and I discovered that I actually went to the Schwartz School of Business. I went to St. F.X., that's the university I went to. No disrespect to Mr. Schwartz, and his donations are obviously appreciated by the university, but I went to St. F.X.

One could say that this is progress and that schools of higher learning can no longer be run on charity but, Mr. Speaker, do we have to sell out the very founders of the university? Do we have to sell out for whom the university was started and for what purpose it was started?

[Page 2421]

There has obviously been an effort to change St. F.X. Apparently some who have claimed to be touched by the X spirit have never truly been touched by it. Maybe it was lost in the values of prestige, a sense of an intellectual entitlement, or perhaps a more combative disagreement with the Church on some matter where personal pride won out. If those so bent on changing St. F.X. would open their hearts to the principles which founded the university - the Christian principles of charity, respect for the human person, and seeking to know the truth - those people would begin to see the Church as a valuable leadership component of St. F.X. To understand that the principles and principals who created the X spirit are an inherent part of the school's identity and the bishop should always hold the leadership position of the board of governors at St. F.X.

Mr. Speaker, we have a new president at St. F.X., Dr. Kent MacDonald. I think this is an opportunity for the president to take this matter on and it's an opportunity for alumni at St. F.X. to get involved now that they are starting to learn about this turn of events, because it certainly wasn't something that was communicated broadly, it certainly wasn't something that was presented in the Alumni News, and it certainly doesn't appear to be something that the board of governors is especially proud of. Otherwise, there would have been consultation.

With that, may I recommend that this Legislature withhold passage of this bill until there is broad consultation with the St. F.X. community. Surely after 160 years, taking the time to ask Xaverians if they feel it is best for their school to stand arm in arm with those who founded it is the right thing to do, and it has become our responsibility in this Legislature. Let Xaverians decide the direction of their university before this Legislature changes it for them.

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

The honourable member for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie.

MR. LLOYD HINES « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank the member opposite for his thoughtful comments and great historical perspective on this venerable institution. I have to say that I agree with much of the things he said, but not all.

If you read the bill, then it clearly does not prohibit the bishop of the Diocese of Antigonish from becoming the chancellor of the university. However, in a progressive institution, Mr. Speaker, it does provide the opportunity for somebody other than the bishop to become the chancellor, which opens that possibility up to a huge number of the graduates of that university who are female.

[Page 2422]

In terms of consultation, this recommendation came from the students who are members of the community and who sit on the board of governors because they recognized that particular weakness in their process. The bishop can still be chancellor, Mr. Speaker.

In terms of justice, justice is about providing equity. This bill provides that equity, Mr. Speaker. The students' rights are supressed in the current situation and this will help change the fact that the chancellor will always be male under the current situation.

I want to speak for a minute about the chaplaincy at this university. As a graduate, and I'm sure the member opposite as a graduate would understand the tremendously important role that has in the life of the university. The chaplaincy is very active, is engaged in all the campus community, Mr. Speaker. As a matter of fact, in the legislation in Clause 4(d), one of the codicils sets out that an objective of the university is to "respect the Catholic heritage and character that have formed a vital part of the University's history." I see no diminishment of that particular objective in this proposed legislation.

The board will elect the chancellor. However, the bill goes a little bit further, Mr. Speaker, and in Clause 15(1) it says, "In light of the historical and continuing relationship between the Diocese and the University, the Bishop shall occupy the position of the Vicar of the Founder of the University." The founder of the university, and the member opposite did such a great job of explaining the roots that make this university strong. This legislation will continue to make it strong into the future.

Mr. Speaker, I move second reading of Bill No. 50.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 50. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : 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.

[4:17 p.m. The House resolved into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Ms. Margaret Miller in the Chair.]

[4:23 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Kevin Murphy, resumed the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:

[Page 2423]

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

Bill No. 40 - Maintenance and Custody Act.

Bill No. 56 - Dental Act.

Bill No. 60 - Securities Act.

Bill No. 65 - Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Commission Act.

Bill No. 66 - Halifax Regional Municipality Charter and Municipal Government Act.

and the chairman has been instructed to recommend these bills to the favourable consideration of the House.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Private and Local Bills for Third Reading.

PRIVATE AND LOCAL BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 27.

Bill No. 27 - "St. Andrew's Society of New Glasgow, Nova Scotia." Incorporation Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou East.

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 27.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 27. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

[Page 2424]

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 34.

Bill No. 34 - Notaries and Commissioners Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister of Justice, I move third reading of Bill No. 34.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 34. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 35.

Bill No. 35 - Property Valuation Services Corporation Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, I move third reading of Bill No. 35.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 35. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

[Page 2425]

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 41.

Bill No. 41 - Electricity Efficiency and Conservation Restructuring (2014) Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 41.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, I figured this is such an important bill that I should speak to it for at least a few moments.

During second reading, during a number of presentations in Law Amendments Committee, throughout this process, we've been definitely calling this the bait-and-switch bill - one that the Premier and the Liberal Party during the last election promised to take the efficiency charge off the bills of Nova Scotians. I hear the Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism saying they did. What the people didn't expect, though, was that it was just for a short period of time - for a few months, until it gets added again when Nova Scotia Power asks for a rate increase because the bill allowed Nova Scotia Power to recoup those charges from the rate base.

In the end what this does is, it goes from a place where we know how much we're spending on efficiency programs - which of course are important and ones that will continue to reduce our energy footprint in Nova Scotia, will continue to save Nova Scotians money but, at the same time - it's a little bit half-hearted in how it addresses this - it does dump it back on that ratepayer in the long run.

Throughout this whole process, it has been a somewhat complicated one because there were a number of things that were added to the announcement. Of course that was the issue of Nova Scotia Power funding low-income upgrades to Nova Scotians, which are kind of part of it but kind of not. They were sort of dumped together in the same one to make it all sound that much better.

Mr. Speaker, I've heard many times from the minister saying that it will save Nova Scotians far more money. What I'm going to have to say is that we're going to have to watch it. He is going to have to prove it, of course, to Nova Scotians because it's not only the Opposition that has been saying that it is a bit of a bait and switch but it's also smoke and mirrors, we can't forget about that one; I think it has been called as well. At the end of the day we're going to want to see the true (Interruption) - a shell game, many words. (Interruption) No, it wasn't a flip-flop; I never called it a flip-flop. I think if the member for Clare-Digby wants to speak to it, I think it's great. He can get up and speak to it as well because he's going to be hearing from his constituents who are going to say listen, my power bills are still too high.

[Page 2426]

Mr. Speaker, that is the issue. We can save four bucks here and three bucks there but do you know what? At the end of the day, the bills that we see in our constituency offices are far higher than what a regular person pays. A lot of the times there are low-income Nova Scotians who really have a tough time making ends meet and show up to our offices with $1,000, $2,000 and $3,000 bills and don't know where to turn in order to address them.

A regular household these days, when they are looking at electric heat, when they are looking at their electricity charges, are seeing bills in the hundreds and hundreds of dollars. A regular Nova Scotian, a middle-earner in this province is finding it very difficult to pay the power bill. We've seen increases, continued increases over the last number of years, and what we continue to hear is that there will continue to be increases.

I know Nova Scotia Power has made it public that they will not be asking for an increase coming next year but the fuel charges are continuing to rise, gas prices are continuing to rise and doing business in Nova Scotia, as well as around the world, continues to increase as well.

The added piece to this that maybe isn't in the bill, but one that concerns the Opposition, is how Emera right now is looking at saving dollars by looking at the linesmen, the linespeople, the electrical utility workers, the inspectors. How they're trying to either privatize or change - privatize is the wrong word, but to change it from one kind of service to another in order to save money. (Interruption) To be able to contract it out. Thank you to the good member to my left, for Cape Breton Centre. I'm sure he'll have a few words to say too.

You know this all fits together in the rates that we're paying each and every day. If we're going to throw it upon the workers to save money, in order to make up those fuel adjustments and the things that the minister talks about, how can we know that our electrical utility will be there for us? I mean we just talked about it in Question Period, Internet service being as important as electricity today, which is true, but are we going to be taking electricity services and letting them degrade over time because the service people are no longer there keeping them up?

We already know that our storms are getting a little bit stronger, the winds are getting a little stronger, and don't forget salt fog and all the other things that affect our electrical system. (Interruption) Apparently it's real, go figure. As much as we make fun of it, it is a real issue in Nova Scotia. We live next to the coastline and a lot of the electrical insulators, the wire systems, all of them are affected by the weather and just the regular everyday wear and tear from the salt water, the salt air, and I guess the salt fog.

[Page 2427]

Mr. Speaker, again this is a bill that we don't agree with. We don't agree with it because we feel that it's a half-measure in its promise to Nova Scotians that the Liberal Party said that they will be removing the tax forever and that is not the case. With those short few words, I want to thank the minister for bringing it forward but saying we don't agree with this bill.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cape Breton Centre.

HON. FRANK CORBETT « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm going to say a few words on the bill and there will be really no surprises. We don't think this bill does what the government, when in Opposition, and when campaigning in the last election - I don't think it does what they had led Nova Scotians to believe and so there will be issues.

As someone who is not so long off those benches, there are things that will haunt you and I think this is one of the ones that has a great spirit to it that may haunt this government for some time. It's certainly I think - the previous speaker had said that this was not as advertised. You know it is always interesting when we say stuff during the campaign and bring them forward here and when it finally happens - I realize in the Fall session the minister said he didn't want to have unattended consequences and he'd be waiting for this.

The other difficult side of this, Mr. Speaker, through you, is that while our role in Opposition is not to just simply oppose - it's in such an odd way that you are put in the Westminster system. We do not want government to fail for the sake of failing because, who does that impact? That impacts our constituents too, so sometimes it is a conundrum you find yourself in that you end up talking about these bills. In talking, part of you wants to be wrong; part of you wants to be sure that the bill does the right things and I don't think they do and that's the reality of it.

I don't want to mix up apples and oranges because as part of the response from the Progressive Conservative Energy Critic, he talked about what's going on with the employees, the possible issues that may face the employees at Nova Scotia Power. The problem with the people who work on the line and so on - since the privatization of Nova Scotia Power, they've seen their workforce greatly diminish over these past 20-some-odd years, Mr. Speaker. This is something that one has to really try to grasp because the utility is given a special place in Nova Scotia and they are allowed a certain return and so on.

One would hope that with that responsibility, they would see that they do have a responsibility to all Nova Scotians, and all Nova Scotians would go beyond just the ratepayers. I think that they should keep and pay an adequate size workforce - pay them reasonable monies, give them reasonable benefits, and that's what we would look for. But as the previous speaker stated, there is a fear - and I think it's real, it's not an imagined fear - that the utility is looking at outsourcing many of its services. Sure as shooting, Mr. Speaker, the first areas that are hurt - and we all know it, and I'm not picking on anybody, but we know it, right - is rural Nova Scotia, where there once was a time when we knew in rural Nova Scotia that there would be depots, I guess would be the best way to look at it, and there would be people working into it.

[Page 2428]

I don't mean to pick on the member for the Canso area, but he knows that the fact is - I'll use his area as an example - that because of some of the remoteness of the area, that if they have to get some clearance from Halifax and get a crew from Halifax to go all the way along there, that is more than just an inconvenience to his residents and his constituents. With the loss of electricity, there are many perils connected - pardon the pun - to that. The fact is that those are the issues.

I would hope that with this bill, Nova Scotia Power understands the responsibility they have to Nova Scotians when it comes to not just the power rates and the electricity they provide, whether it's to industry or individual homes, but what they have to the overall fabric of this province is that they do have business in rural areas, they do have businesses in areas that are not easily accessible. But they are in receipt of some favourable legislation from time to time in this House, and they should think themselves lucky for that. They should be finding a way, when it comes to helping Nova Scotians, that the service they get from their energy provider is the best it can be, and that Nova Scotians should be proud of the largest energy provider here.

Soon they'll be partnering through their parent company, Emera - very soon we'll see actual work being done on the subsea cable coming from Newfoundland and Labrador to Point Aconi and that area, and probably moving on. So what is Nova Scotia Power giving back to its ratepayers? We feel that there's times that we should - that they should be brought more to account of what they're doing. I think when we look at Bill No. 41 and what was going on, especially with Efficiency Nova Scotia and what the - and I'll change my tack here a little bit, Mr. Speaker - about what they've done for Efficiency Nova Scotia - and we've talked to people about some of the efficiency models and the actual work done on people's homes and so on and what they were able to accomplish through Efficiency Nova Scotia.

I would hope, as I said earlier, because it's not our desire to see a bill go in a bad direction or whatever - I mean, it's all right to critique it, but we don't want Nova Scotians to be harmed by anything, and I would hope that's the way, when we criticize or critique a bill, that that's what we're thinking of. We're not thinking primarily of they brought it forward, we're against it. I don't think that's why the people of this province sent us to this House.

I would hope that at the end of the day this bill, as it stands now, I hope I'm proven wrong, that it is the best that Nova Scotians do realize some of these energy efficiencies and this is the best way to deliver it, but I'm not convinced of it. I think as I said earlier, the things you do - it's not done with malice, it's done with very good intent, but you find out it's just not workable. Nova Scotia Power's perspective on the world is a lot different, and their perspective on the province from time to time is a lot different than what your government's may be.

[Page 2429]

The wants and the needs of Nova Scotia Power aren't necessarily the wants and the needs of Nova Scotians, so I would hope that the minister - I know the minister understands that and I think he agrees with me. This will be borne out in time.

Our government, the previous government, I can go back to a time in the 1970s where you think that talking about Nova Scotia Power - you think Nova Scotia Power is an issue that's inflammatory in this Chamber today, I can remember a time when it garnered a guy, who was representing the riding I'm in, to walk across the floor and persuade someone with his five fingers clutched as a fist. So it's nothing new to have disagreements over Nova Scotia Power - and it brings out a lot of interest in everybody.

It's April 29th today, and we're still seeing people going up and down Granville and Hollis with scarves on, so it means that energy consumption in our homes is probably greater than normal - it's probably at a time where it should be early March-type consumptions that we are probably consuming this time of year. That will be interesting to look at.

One would like to see Bill No. 41 alleviate that, but the reality is, and the minister knows this, and there's no magic wand here, there's no magic, this is going to be it - there will be another bill, another government, another generation and I'm sure they'll still be talking about how we're doing these things. I just hope that when we finally get to it that this bill has not hurt the situation. I believe we'll be voting against it, but it's a strange thing, it's like you vote against it and you hope for it. That's the reality of it; that's what we do in here.

We have a uniqueness here and it's a balance, we're dealing with a monopoly. We're dealing with a monopoly that was once owned directly by the people of Nova Scotia. I suppose if we ever tried to open that can of worms, it would be an interesting one - much like putting the toothpaste back in the tube.

I can also remember, in the world of evolution, in the 1970s again, where were we? The striking thing that was bringing down governments was the cost of fuel on the international market. That was the late 1960s, early 1970s. That was much the reason that new mines were opened in Cape Breton. We started burning Cape Breton coal again, that was just the reality of it. Nobody was around then to really talk about the effects of it. At that reality it was one or the other. It was either import Bunker C offshore or burn our own coal. There is a whole lesson to be talked about there - while doing that, did we ever really give ourselves the proper return on that and so on? But so be it; that was then.

You cannot live life, you cannot do negotiations, you can't do any of those things in the rear-view mirror, I'd say. We've got to go forward. This bill, while I can't say it's a terrible bill, but I can't support it because I know it doesn't do what the government had said it would do during the election. Therefore, with a few more words that I was going to say about this bill - and maybe the minister will have a few more to say before he sits down - I will take my place and thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

[Page 2430]

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

The honourable Minister of Energy.

HON. ANDREW YOUNGER « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm just going to make a few comments. My colleagues across the floor had some comments related to the bill and some of the broader issues too. I think the broader issues are important and I think the out-sourcing issue in particular is as much a strain on the families of people who don't know whether they are going to be out-sourced or not, as it is on anything else, and we'll see where that goes. I have my own opinions on where it might go, but they're probably, on that particular issue, as good as anybody else's opinion in here and my understanding is in the next few months we might have some certainty on when, if, and how much - all that sort of thing happens.

It's worth noting - the member for Cape Breton Centre brought up Canso and talked about depots. Of course there weren't any Nova Scotia Power depots because Canso has its own utility. I only mention that because I think it's a common misconception in the province that the whole province is Nova Scotia Power when, in fact, Canso and Berwick and a number of others actually have their own municipal utilities. Interestingly enough in, I believe, all of those cases, they pay less in those municipal utilities than you pay for power as a Nova Scotia Power customer.

Now, there are some reasons for that in some cases, but it is also an example in Berwick where they've made use of the renewable-to-retail. This debate in some respects reminds me of the debate we had in the Fall session when we brought forward the legislation on renewable-to-retail. One of the things that was said at the time by - I think it might have been the member for Argyle-Barrington who said we'll see what happens, whether anybody signs up, and of course, already, without the regulations in place, there are companies coming forward and municipalities coming forward, looking to take advantage of that bill. So here we are, four months later and yes, what we predicted would happen, with interest being shown, is happening.

I know that with the electricity stuff, it can take some time. It's why we - the member for Cape Breton Centre talked about going back to the 1970s. I was born in the 1970s so I don't remember that, the oil crisis, but what I will say is that (Interruptions) We have many decades represented in the Legislature. What I will say about that is that we can go back even further and look at before Nova Scotia Power was a company owned by the government, it was a whole bunch of private utilities, at one time, and it has gone through a number of different versions of this: Nova Scotia Light and Power, of course; the Bowater Assets; the hydro dams were built for the purpose of being run by the mill down there and so forth. There is a lot of unique history here in Nova Scotia.

[Page 2431]

To answer the member for Cape Breton Centre's question about power usage recently with the cold weather, well, he's absolutely right. They had to bring back an unused unit in Lingan two days ago. In fact, they had to bring down power at a number of our interruptable users this week for that very reason, because they suddenly had to fire up one of the units that has been down all winter at Lingan because power usage was so low, because it got so cold at the end of April, totally unpredicted.

We can't predict weather, weather has changed and so our usage patterns - all you need to do is look around not only Halifax but a number of other cities to see that many homes and apartment buildings and condominiums are now being built with air conditioning loads. Well, we never had high summer loads before and now we're starting to even out that load where things like solar energy may become more valuable. Those are all the sorts of issues that are being looked at as part of the electricity review. There's already a lot of interest so we'll have more to say on that later.

On this specific issue, we came into government and there were changes that needed to be made regardless of who came in. The HST issue was a $4.7 million annual weight around the necks of ratepayers in this province. The structure of the corporation had to be changed. We talk about unintended consequences and there was one that I don't think anybody intended when the original Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation was introduced. We have restructured it, ratepayers will now not be paying for that amount of money - never, they will never see that charge.

We took low-income programs and Nova Scotia Power is now paying the electricity programs for low income, which will mean that every single low-income home in this province will be upgraded over a maximum of 10 years, so maybe it will get done faster, but in 10 years, at a maximum of 10 years, every low-income electrically heated home in this province will be upgraded at no charge to those homeowners. The province is matching that on the non-electric side, to ensure that every non-electric heated home in this province is fully upgraded. Those retrofits and upgrades will start this summer. In fact, the program details are already being rolled out.

We also looked at the need to move in a direction that is supported by stakeholders. One of the things that we committed to during the election was not only to get the tax off bills, which will happen on January 1st, but also to work with stakeholders on the mechanism and the things that they needed addressed, and we did. You heard stakeholders coming here and speak in the media and say that this is even better than what was committed because of the things that it does, the competition it creates.

We had the letter from the Suzuki Foundation, the Pembina Institute, Ecology Action Centre, and numerous others that talked about how this goes even further and in better ways than what we had committed to and creates a long-term, strong program for efficiency in this province. That is what we committed that we would do and we will.

[Page 2432]

This bill is one portion of the overall efficiency program that we promised to deliver on. Mr. Speaker, this part of the bill, this bill is about whether you want to see power rates go down on January 1, 2015, or you don't and that is a very simple choice. On January 1, 2015, Nova Scotians will look and decide who felt that power rates should go down and who thought they should increase. The reality is the proposal going to the board if this bill didn't pass, was for a rate increase by Efficiency Nova Scotia for next year. So there's the choice.

Tonight's bill is a very simple choice: it's do you think rates should go down on January 1st, or do you think they should go up? Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 41. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 43.

Bill No. 43 - Direct Sellers' Regulation Act.

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

HON. MARK FUREY « » : I move that Bill No. 43 be now read a third time and do pass.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 43. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 44.

[Page 2433]

Bill No. 44 - Public Trustee Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. LENA DIAB « » : I move that Bill No. 44 be read a third time and do pass.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 44. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 45.

Bill No. 45 - Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications System Reform (2014) Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Labour and Advanced Education.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I move that Bill No. 45 be now read a third time and do pass.

There is no question, Mr. Speaker, there are opportunities in the skilled trades here and we want our sons and daughters to take advantage of them, and that's why we're making changes to the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act and the Community Colleges Act. These amendments lay the groundwork to establish a new industry-led agency for apprenticeship. This is a direct response to a recommendation made by industry experts that will give them more authority and decision-making power across the entire apprenticeship program.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Cape Breton Centre for his part in moving this bill along to its fruition since - I know he's crying over there, but despite that I do want to commend him for his part in making this bill a reality.

The result, Mr. Speaker, will be a system that is more responsive to the people it's intended to serve - employers and apprentices. It will also encourage employer participation which will provide more opportunities for apprentices and help them complete their training, and it will work to attract more people to careers in the skilled trades.

[Page 2434]

Mr. Speaker, changes to the Community Colleges Act will ensure students are getting the training they need to prepare for these and other jobs across the province. Included in this year's budget was $2.6 million to support this work, expand apprenticeship technological training, and create new supports for employers. Under this legislation we will now be able to issue cease and desist orders in cases where someone is working in a trade without the required certification, or as a non-registered apprentice, and this will help to ensure a fair playing field for our employers and a safe work environment for all.

We will now also have the ability to assign apprenticeship agreements to employers in other jurisdictions, making it easier for apprentices to have out-of-province training recognized and they'll be able to complete their program without interruption. Mr. Speaker, a successful apprenticeship system means more jobs for our daughters and sons, and it means bringing our young workers home and making home the best place to work.

Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to move third reading of Bill No. 45. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 45. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker would you please call Bill No. 49.

Bill No. 49 - Motor Vehicle Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move third reading of Bill No. 49.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 49. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

[Page 2435]

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker would you please call Bill No. 51.

Bill No. 51 - Municipal Government Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 51 be now read a third time and do pass.

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

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak to Bill No. 51. First of all, I would just like to speak briefly to the amendment to Bill No. 51. I noticed that amendment is very similar to Bill No. 29 that I introduced in the last session. I would like to thank the minister for the support for that amendment. I notice in that amendment that it is with consent of the minister that the village may sell or lease property at less than market value to a non-profit organization, that the village commission is considered to be carrying on an activity that is beneficial to the village.

That was the intent of Bill No. 29, Mr. Speaker, that villages have the opportunity to donate land to organizations and this comes out of an incident which happened in Kings County where the Village of New Minas wanted to donate land to Habitat for Humanity and eventually discovered that they were unable to do that due to a missing part of the Municipal Government Act, something that if they had been a town they would have been able to do but as a village they were unable to address.

Habitat for Humanity does terrific work. The house that Habitat for Humanity wanted to build was built; it was built on land donated by the Town of Kentville in the Municipality of Kings County. The unfortunate part of that is that the family that Habitat for Humanity was building the house for in New Minas was not able to travel, did not have the opportunity - the house being further away, they were not able to access that to work because they did not have transportation.

The bill addresses something that is important to organizations like Habitat for Humanity that they can access land from villages. As you know we have some 21 or 22 villages in the province and it's something that is important for them to have. As far as the remainder of the bill, the ability to meet in camera, this comes out of a big lack in a village's ability to operate. It's very important that they have this ability and I would like to commend the minister on bringing that forward.

I noticed that there was - and I'm sure the minister is familiar with this - the Village Legislation Discussion Paper, revised September 22, 2012, from the Association of Nova Scotia Villages, there were 14 proposals in that paper, number 11 of which was this in camera.

[Page 2436]

Now, I'm not saying that I support, or that the minister should support, all 14 of those proposals, but I think that the minister needs to look at them and think about some of those, certainly some of the things that the villages need to do.

We are living in a time when municipal governance and municipalities and all that is a big issue now in towns, with towns going through the process of amalgamation and municipal amalgamation. What is the importance of villages? Well, I would like to suggest to you that villages are important, that they are very effective and efficient, in many cases run largely by volunteers, and are able to be very effective. Maybe we are headed for amalgamation of villages and towns and municipalities, but the sunset on villages, I am certain, will take a long time and villages will continue to exist in our province for quite some time.

It is important that we, as a government, give them the tools that they need to function effectively, and this bill gives them some of the tools that they need to function effectively. With that, I would like to conclude my remarks on Bill No. 51.

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

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, it's my pleasure to have an opportunity to speak to Bill No. 51 and specifically to the amendments that were brought forward on Bill No. 51. As the honourable member across spoke about, the village commissions, through legislation, are required to lease or sell or donate land to non-profit organizations at fair market value. There are situations where this is a disadvantage for a village looking to work with a non-profit group. The member opposite raised the issue in my constituency of New Minas, where this became an issue.

I'd like to point out, in my experience on two municipal councils, that the issues of affordable housing are paramount in communities, particularly small communities in Nova Scotia. Councils are always looking for ways to assist in the development of affordable housing, and there are very, very few tools for municipalities, towns, villages to actually contribute to creating affordable housing. They have solely the ability to legislate land-use planning, but the other tool they have is through the donation of municipal land or assets. It is really organizations like Habitat for Humanity that will benefit from the ability for all municipalities and municipal units, including villages, to be able to donate land to non-profit organizations.

I happened to attend the cutting of the ribbon for the Habitat for Humanity opening of a duplex in Wolfville. It is a very moving experience to see two single moms with their young kids standing beside them and to be proudly accepting the keys and proudly announcing to the community that they are delighted; they never thought that they would have an opportunity to have a mortgage. I thought that was a very profound statement, and it's really a testament to the great work of Habitat for Humanity.

[Page 2437]

These changes will have a positive impact for not-for-profit groups that are looking to acquire land for projects that will benefit their community. With the amendments to this bill, we are increasing the ability for villages to respond to the needs of non-profit organizations and their community members.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to wholeheartedly thank the member for Kings North for bringing this amendment forward and also thank the minister for his work on this bill. Thank you.

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

The honourable Minister of Municipal Affairs.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I move to close debate on Bill No. 51.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 51. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 52.

Bill No. 52 - Liquor Control Act.

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

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 52, the Liquor Control Act, be now read a third time and do pass.

I'm not going to speak much today. I've had many opportunities in the Legislature to talk about u-vints, but as the members know, I introduced a similar bill six times when I was in Opposition. It gives me a great deal of pleasure today to see the bill coming here to third reading and about to become law.

With the passage of this bill, Mr. Speaker, we will be able to go forward and actually write the regulations that will accompany the bill. We're going to include more consultation with the industry as we do that. We want to make sure that the regulations are going to be our own Nova Scotia regulations - we're not using any other model to do so, and therefore it will require some consultation.

[Page 2438]

I appreciated the comments on second reading that came from members of the Opposition in support of this bill. I think that it's a change in our province whose time has come. The public were ahead of us on this for the last number of years, and as I say, I'm very pleased to see third reading of Bill No. 52. Thank you.

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

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : I would like to speak against this bill for several reasons. First of all, I think that we have in our province a grape industry and a winery industry that is just starting to really get going, and I question the impact that u-vints will have on that winery industry. What will happen is that the brewing that is done in the u-vints will result in a $3 bottle of wine, and at that low price I'm afraid it will impact the grape and wine industry, the wineries that we have in the province.

The fact of the matter is that the concentrate that is put in those u-vints comes from very low-cost producing parts of the world, in countries like Mexico or Chile. The fact of the matter is that the world is awash with grape juice, and there is overproduction everywhere at the moment. In fact, in France there have been 700-year-old vineyards that have been torn out, and the reason is because of the growth of local wine.

What the minister is doing is creating a stream of grape juice turned into wine in our province, which is essentially offshore grapes, offshore production. I think it will impact our local wineries, and I would encourage the minister, when you're looking at the pricing on these products, that you look at and consult with the wineries.

The second reason I'd like to speak against it is that we have a long history of taxation of alcohol, and again, I would question the fact that we would bring a stream of alcohol into the province that is brewed in this way which does not attract that same level of taxation. I would question the fairness of that to our - and I know nobody would, it's hard to defend big corporations, but the big corporations that do produce alcohol and put it in the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation have a right to be in a fair playing field. I would question the fairness of that, that another stream of alcohol is being brought into the province at very low cost, and is not attracting the same level of taxation that the big brewers, the big wine companies, are in the regime that they are living in.

The third thing I would question is, again, the fairness of this legislation in regard to the hotel, restaurant, and bar industry, where they are required to buy alcohol from the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation at full price and attempt to sell it for a profit. Now, it may be that there is no limit to the amount of alcohol that can be consumed in the province, and possibly this will have no impact on their sales, but again, I would question the fairness of having such a low-cost product come into our hard-working restaurant and bars. I know from having relatives involved in that industry and having observed it, one of the most competitive and difficult industries to stay on top of is the restaurant business. One of the key factors in their success is alcohol sales and to have such low-cost product available in the province is something that I would question the wisdom of. I would ask the minister again to consider that issue.

[Page 2439]

Finally, I would like to say that I know the minister may be aware there was a book written recently called Drink - and I don't know the name of the author, but it was a lady who was a successful executive - about the perils of alcoholism. Again, I would question the sensibility of having such a low-cost stream of alcohol brought into the province, from social issues. I know the minister has said that she does not believe that is an issue, but I question that.

On those multiple issues, I think that this legislation needs to be carefully thought about. Thank you.

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

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, I, too, want to make a few brief comments. I know, especially after the comments from the minister on third reading of Bill No. 52, she had mentioned that there will be continued consultation as the regulations are created for this piece of legislation. I would hope and I would encourage - and I look hopefully to support from this recommendation from the Minister of Health and Wellness - that the minister look at consultation with those professionals who have worked their whole career in public health, and similar to some of the comments from the previous speaker, that there is an impact on society when there is access to a lower-cost alcohol.

I know my Leader spoke at length at second reading around the socially responsible pricing of alcohol. This is something, nationally, that jurisdictions from one end of this country to the other look at and take action on. Mr. Speaker, we know for example that here in our own capital city, over the last number of years, where bar owners, for example, have come together to try to curb some of the issues we've had, especially around violence after hours or when the bars close here in Halifax, and that there is a relation to the price of alcohol.

I know many of the bars here in Halifax had $1.00 drinks, for example, and we know - it is documented - there have been issues in the province. Now don't get me wrong, Mr. Speaker, when I was going to Saint Mary's here in Halifax, those cheap prices were great, but as you realize the importance of having a good pricing of alcohol, there are ramifications if they are too low.

All I'm asking from the minister is that if consultation is going to continue, that there is an opportunity for those who work within public health, who have concerns around pricing of alcohol here in the province, that they are given another opportunity to have some input to the regulations that will be created after Bill No. 52 is passed through the Legislature. Thank you.

[Page 2440]

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

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the comments from the other members who have spoken. I wanted to make a few comments about what we've heard here from the Opposition. First of all, in our original consultation we did have input from the wine industry. Nova Scotia's wine industry is in no way threatened by the access to u-vint operations. They are outselling everything they make. The entire production is sold. There isn't enough to export at this point because it's all absorbed and sold here in Nova Scotia. People are appreciating the wine industry.

I've had the opportunity to speak at some length with the Minister of Agriculture who is very anxious to see more grapes planted, to see an expansion of the industry and the farm side of this industry and the local wineries that are particularly in the Annapolis Valley. We see no conflict whatsoever with the expansion of u-vint operations that are available now in Nova Scotia.

We certainly will watch that but right now I can assure Nova Scotians that the wine industry is thriving and growing and the demand for good quality Nova Scotia wines is increasing. They are working very closely and in consultation with the NSLC, which I am the minister for, in terms of having very good placement in the stores and all we can do to support our local wine industry.

In fact, Nova Scotia wines outsold a number of wine countries like France and Chile as well this year - I'm sure it was Chile - it was something like the fifth largest jurisdiction for sales of wine and that was our own Nova Scotia wine. As the member would know, certain brands and names of wines sell out completely and we can't get them as the year progresses.

I have no qualms and no worries about the impact on our local wines. I do feel that we had good consultation with the wine industry, and that there was some input received. I appreciate that you've raised that as a concern, as a person from the Valley and also a farmer. I'm sure you're very well aware of that, but I want to assure you that the discussions have taken place with the industry and with the Minister of Agriculture.

On the taxation of alcohol, I would say that the previous way the wine kit stores operated, there was no tax paid on the sale of the kits because the kits are considered a food product, so they are exempt from tax. As it stands now, there will be tax paid on the service, as the wine and beer is brewed on-site and there's a tax on that. So there's additional tax revenue to the province as a result of the expansion of the service. I think that's important and, more importantly, the extension of more people working in the industry, more people are employed paying taxes - an expansion of the industry is good on that small business entrepreneurial level. We will be supporting that as it goes forward. It's already been pretty phenomenal.

[Page 2441]

In talking about the licensees, it's important to note that NSLC in the last year has offered a 10 per cent discount to licensees on both wine and spirits - not on beer - but we were the first jurisdiction in Canada to do that, and that was a big concession to recognizing the stress that a lot of restaurateurs and bars and licensed establishments are under. We understand there has been a lot of pressure on those businesses and it was a way to try a pilot that would perhaps help them - that should be noted here today that we have recognized those pressures.

I don't see a u-vint operation, where you don't get access or you don't get to bottle and have your wine for many weeks, you've got to leave it in the store, I don't really see that's going to be an impediment or in any way competitive to going out to dinner and having a glass of wine while you're at dinner. I want to recognize that NSLC did take a step which cuts into the revenue that comes to the province, but it was a step to recognize the importance of the food and beverage industry. So that was also done.

In response to the member for Sackville-Cobequid, I just want to say that as we go forward we will certainly be monitoring. I will commit that we will evaluate the success of the u-vint operation as it goes forward, like any other bill and any other activity that government undertakes. If something were to be identified later that was problematic, we could certainly review it then. I will reiterate that I don't see this as a harmful activity.

I'd also take a little bit of exception to the price that was quoted by the member from the Annapolis Valley - the member for Kings North. The reason I say that is I don't think there's anywhere that you would get a $3 bottle of wine through this process. It's inexpensive, but it is not that inexpensive. I don't know where you got the figure of $3. I've heard, I think, something like $8 perhaps per bottle. That's quite a difference; it's more than 100 per cent more than what you said. So I just want to say that would be unbelievably inexpensive, which is not the case. Bear in mind that the individuals themselves actually make this wine - they take the effort, their time, and their supplies to make and bottle and prepare the wine, so it isn't as though you're buying a ready-made product like that at that price.

I've said before, it's a hobby and I think that any of us would note that the people of Nova Scotia have led the way on this. We've had a couple of courageous people in the industry who have stood up and asked us to review the processes in Nova Scotia, and I think this is a very good day for entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 52. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

[Page 2442]

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 53.

Bill No. 53 - Police Act.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. LENA DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 53, amendments to the Police Act and Fatality Investigations Act be now read a third time and do pass.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 53. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, that concludes the government's business for today. We certainly appreciate the co-operation from all members of the House. Tomorrow being Opposition Day, I would now ask for the House Leader of the Official Opposition to give us the hours and business for tomorrow.

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

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, of course, tomorrow we'll be sitting from the hours of 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. After daily routine and Question Period, we will be calling Bill No. 36, the Economic Growth Goals Act, and Bill No. 38, the Balanced Budget Act. (Interruption) I don't know the number. What's the number of the one we introduced today?

AN HON. MEMBER: 71.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : I guess I'll call Bill No. 71 as well, to put it on the roll just in case. We'll pick one, and we'll let you know which ones we're going to go with. (Laughter)

[Page 2443]

I now move that we meet again tomorrow between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House do now rise to meet again tomorrow, Wednesday, April 30th between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

We stand adjourned until 2:00 p.m. tomorrow.

We have reached the moment of interruption. The topic for tonight's late debate was submitted by the honourable member for Hants West and reads:

"Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the Liberal Government's incompetence for not taking action on the growing issue of Lyme disease in Nova Scotia."

ADJOURNMENT

MOTION UNDER RULE 5(5)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou East.

HEALTH & WELLNESS - LYME DISEASE:

GOV.'T. INCOMPETENCE - RECOGNIZE

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to rise tonight and talk about this important issue of Lyme disease in Nova Scotia. There has been a lot of talk about Lyme disease in this Chamber over the years and even over this session. Talk is important because it brings attention to something that is important to Nova Scotians, but what Nova Scotians really want from this Chamber is action.

It's hard to believe, but there are those among us who feel like Lyme disease is not an issue in this province. There are members in this Chamber who feel that Lyme disease is not an important issue that warrants discussion in this Chamber. I am not one of them. The members of the PC caucus are not amongst those members who feel that there is nothing to worry about here. There's nothing to see, move along, some members would say - but not us over here.

[Page 2444]

Maybe members in here who would say, there is legislation in place already, there is nothing more we can do. To them I say, not so. Any legislation that may be on the books is clearly not working. So I ask, why are we so reluctant to look for a better way? We should always look for a better way, and I hope that someday the members on the government side will come to realize that a better way may come from this side. There can be good ideas that come from the Opposition side.

Lyme disease is a problem in Nova Scotia. We were all sent here by our constituents to try to solve problems that are important to Nova Scotians. I can tell you that I have heard from Nova Scotians from all corners of our province who have been touched by Lyme disease - all corners. If you are a member sitting in this Chamber and you think that your constituents don't care about Lyme disease, you are wrong. If you are a member sitting in this Chamber and you think that there is no issue, you are wrong.

We, as a province, have a chance to be a leader and we should take it. We should make sure that our medical system is properly prepared to diagnose and treat Lyme disease. Yes, prevention is always part of the solution, but in those cases where prevention fails, we need to have a system that is properly prepared to address it.

In a minute I'm going to share some stories from people throughout Nova Scotia who are dealing with Lyme disease and/or other tick-borne diseases. I'm going to share their stories in their own words, and I beg the members of this Chamber to listen to these stories or maybe go back through Hansard on another day and read a few of them because all these stories are different, yet they are all the same. They are from all over the province, not just the endemic areas.

The issue is greater than anyone realizes and more research and education is required. Madam Speaker, what time did we start late debate?

MADAM SPEAKER « » : You have until 5:43 p.m.

MR. HOUSTON « » : I'll share the first story here. A family wrote in:

My daughter moved from Saskatchewan to Halifax to play basketball for the Dalhousie Tigers in 2009. She got sick in her first year and several doctors thought it was H1N1, that was currently in an outbreak at that time. She did not get better so she was prescribed anti-viral medication. She was then eventually referred to an Internist who grilled her on what street drugs she was taking. She has since developed a cardiac problem and had a very irregular heartbeat so she was sent for an ECG. She ultimately had extreme headaches and joint pain, light sensitivity, numbness in extremities.

[Page 2445]

One of the doctors in Halifax told her she must be homesick. When she returned to Saskatchewan for Christmas break she went to see a South African doctor in Saskatchewan who immediately treated her for Lyme disease. She took a couple of courses of antibiotics before she headed back to school in January but after getting here, she went to seek out a Lyme-literate doctor and she had trouble because it is a fact that we have difficulty finding doctors in Nova Scotia who know much about Lyme disease and this young lady was encountering just that.

She looked around for a Lyme-literate doctor. She did ultimately find one in Cape Breton who reviewed her case and figured out a treatment plan. She began to see small improvements. Now remember, this was a girl who arrived in Halifax at the end of August, a healthy athlete, who regularly ran five kilometres and trained on the basketball court several times a week, but yet by Halloween she was unable to walk up a flight of stairs and she spent most of her waking hours in a dark room.

She ultimately made it through and got her degree in convocation in the Spring, but after two full years of antibiotics and more than two years of herbal supplements, she is only now just returning to training and once again finding the energy to work. This is a classic case of people not finding the appropriate diagnosis and immediate treatment.

The next says:

My story is absolutely typical of hundreds and hundreds of other Nova Scotians who have contracted Lyme disease. As a point of interest, I will mention that after two years of being sick and struggling to find answers and get a diagnosis and get help and treatment, finally on my own I realized that it was Lyme disease that I had. I went to our family veterinarian - the family vet - in the absence of finding a doctor that could help. The family vet provided some advice, immediate straight forward advice: go to the US as fast as you can. You will get diagnosed and treated there, but you will not get it here.

That was an honest example, she said, and the results showed that advice was good. Meanwhile the family medical doctor of 25 years failed to give good advice and continuously denied that this person had Lyme disease, and this is a story that's typical of many Nova Scotians. Sadly that is the reality for many Nova Scotians.

I'm going to find one here in the interest of time here. A gentleman writes in:

I was finally properly diagnosed in February 2010 with Lyme disease after having been bit by a tick in the summer of 1971. This summer makes it 42 years - yes, I said that right - 42 years of relentless pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness, probably about 50 other symptoms.

[Page 2446]

There are many stories here that I would love to touch on but many of them are about being bit by ticks in different stages of their life cycles and some of the stories are written by people who said they didn't even notice that they were bitten by a tick because the tick was so small.

This is a dangerous situation in this province. We do have an issue in this province and we do need to support our medical community as it tries to prepares itself to properly address the issue that we have. It's not fair to say pull your socks up higher when you go in the woods. It's not fair to say check yourself when you come out. We need to provide a system so that doctors know what to do when somebody presents themselves, having been bit by a tick. There has to be a protocol that doctors say, well this is what I will do because you showed up like this. We don't have that at the moment; we need to get there. In other jurisdictions they are starting to get there. We have a chance to be a leader.

My only question for the government side is, can we find the courage to acknowledge this issue and try to solve this issue before countless more families have to suffer through what people with Lyme disease are currently suffering through? We have people who are being told, well we'll send your son or daughter to a psychiatrist because there must be something wrong with them because they have so many different symptoms that they just can't be real. We can't accept that, I don't accept that and I hope that the government doesn't accept that, thank you.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Time has elapsed.

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : Madam Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to speak about Lyme disease. At this time of year the weather is usually warming up, although Mother Nature doesn't seem to be cooperating right now, but when this weather does warm up and when the snow has completely melted everywhere, and when the temperature is consistently above four degrees Celsius, it is tick season in Nova Scotia.

As we all know, blacklegged ticks can carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease and that is why May is the month that has been chosen for Lyme disease awareness. In fact, in two days we will be proclaiming May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Nova Scotia, and I will come back to that in a moment, but first I want say that we share the concerns of Nova Scotians and the members of this House about Lyme disease in Nova Scotia.

A certain amount of concern is justified. The tick population in Nova Scotia has grown significantly from zero endemic areas in the province to six in the past 11 years, and there are certainly no grounds to suggest that the government is doing nothing about Lyme disease in this province.

[Page 2447]

Madam Speaker, government began taking action long ago. I want to reassure the members of this House and all Nova Scotians that there is a great deal of attention being devoted to Lyme disease, both in this province and at the national level.

Over the past dozen years we have been monitoring the tick population and the incidence of Lyme disease in Nova Scotia and taking the appropriate action to keep Nova Scotians as safe as possible. Let me go through these actions one by one.

In response to Lyme disease in Nova Scotia, the Department of Health and Wellness developed a Vector Borne Diseases Working Group with representation from the province's Departments of Health and Wellness, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment; the Public Health Agency of Canada and the National Microbiology Lab; public health staff in district health authorities; the Provincial Public Health Network Anchor Laboratory; the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History; and the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch.

This group developed the Tick Borne Diseases Response Plan and updates it regularly to keep it current. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to table the most recent version of that plan. The plan includes human surveillance for Lyme disease, tick surveillance, public awareness education campaign, information for health professionals, diagnostic testing for human illness, and vector control measures.

Mr. Speaker, you will note that these actions in government's plan include a surveillance program, guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, and education materials for Nova Scotians.

I'd like to provide a little more detail about the government's work on each of these actions. In terms of surveillance, Nova Scotia has added Lyme disease to this legislative list of notifiable diseases and works with health professionals across the province to track instances of the disease. We also work with our colleagues in the Department of Natural Resources and the Public Health Agencies of Canada to monitor the tick population, which, as I noted, has grown significantly in the past 10 years.

The knowledge gained through surveillance is compiled by the Department of Health and Wellness in an annual Report on Lyme Disease Epidemiology and Surveillance in Nova Scotia. I will happily table the most recent report.

AN HON. MEMBER: Nothing to see, no problem, no Lyme disease in Nova Scotia.

MS. TREEN « » : That's not what was said. Nobody said that, so stop saying it, please.

The members of this House and all Nova Scotians can find this very thorough report on the Department of Health and Wellness website. We also distribute it to the health professionals in Nova Scotia and the Public Health Agency of Canada. Nova Scotia also has an Infectious Disease Expert Group in Nova Scotia that has produced a Statement for Managing Lyme Disease in Nova Scotia. This statement has been distributed to physicians and other professionals throughout the health system and is posted on our website. Madam Speaker, I have that statement to table as well.

[Page 2448]

We continue to work with infectious disease specialists to hold webinars and other forms of medical education for physicians. We also submit an annual article about Lyme disease for the Spring edition of Doctors Nova Scotia Magazine to ensure the province's health professionals have the most recent research at their disposal.

The laboratory at the QEII hospital works with the national lab in Winnipeg, using the accepted two-step testing protocol. Any diagnosis not using this method - as is being done by private labs in the U.S. - is questionable.

In addition to the information for health professionals, we also put a strong focus on public education, because Lyme disease is entirely preventable with some simple precautions.

As I noted earlier, we recognize May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Nova Scotia. We look forward to bringing that resolution to the floor in this House. During this month, we will start our annual campaign with a news release, advertising posters, pamphlets, and information for all our MLAs' offices to remind Nova Scotians of these preventive measures. Be mindful of ticks when working or playing in grassy, shrubby, and wooded areas. Wear light-coloured long sleeved shirts and pants so ticks are more visible, light-coloured socks and enclosed shoes. Pull socks up over your pants and tuck in shirts. Spray clothing and exposed skin with an insect repellent containing DEET, following manufacturer's instructions. Check clothing and exposed skin for ticks after working or playing outside or in the bushes or tall grass. Removing any ticks attached to the skin - this is described in the posters, the pamphlets, and on the website on how to do this. Keep grass cut to minimize suitable habitat for the ticks on properties.

We advise anyone who has been exposed to the outdoors and developed symptoms of Lyme disease to seek medical attention. One early symptom is a bull's eye-shaped rash around the tick bite. That can be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, fatigue, muscle ache, joint pain, and headache. I have copies of the pamphlets and posters here to be tabled, as well as last year's advertising and the information posted on the website.

This year, we will also be stepping up our efforts with social media to share all the simple precautions I have just listed and other information to help Nova Scotians understand ticks, Lyme disease, and how to protect themselves from it. We will also be working more closely with our federal and provincial colleagues on coordinating efforts to educate the public and continue providing new information to health professionals. Nova Scotia's participation in a national vector-borne working group that developed a national communication plan reflecting Lyme disease activities across the country and sowing the seeds for more collaboration among these partners. In fact, Nova Scotia co-chairs this group along with the Public Health Agency of Canada. I have a copy of the national communication plan to table. I have noted the information on our website . . .

[Page 2449]

MADAM SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Time has lapsed.

The honourable member for Pictou West.

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Madam Speaker, I'm not as well versed on this topic as my colleague, the member for Pictou East, but I just want to share some personal stories and experiences. My first experience with Lyme disease was actually in the late 1980s when I was going to university in Maine and one of the students there was diagnosed. It took years and years to be diagnosed, and what I'll bet we'll find in 10 years from now is that some of us will maybe be sitting here and that we'll be adapting the rules and regulations of what the State of Maine and other states are doing.

I really believe that the Province of Nova Scotia is behind when it comes to a Lyme disease strategy. There's no doubt that we're way behind. We know that Lyme disease is on the rise in Canada - I think it's up by 146 per cent. I know that in Nova Scotia it's on the rise because I'm seeing it in my own area.

What we don't realize, and I just recently learned myself, is that Lyme disease is increasing along with - and I know some of you may not believe this - but they indicate that it's increasing with climate change. I would just like to see Nova Scotia, for once, get ahead and on top of something. I really, really believe that we will be, in 10 years, up to par where Maine is now, where they wished they had been back in the 1980s and 1990s.

I have a good friend, Brenda Sterling-Goodwin - who was here one day in a wheelchair - and I've spent a lot of time with her and lots of conversations. I've spoken to a number of people that have been finally diagnosed. I don't tend to disagree with the fact that we have a number out there that states that, okay, there were maybe six this year in Nova Scotia that were diagnosed; the problem is that it could be someone in this room. We're not able to diagnose it easily and this Lyme Disease Strategy would allow doctors and the medical profession to tap into having better tests out there. We know that there are a lot of different strains of Lyme disease.

My closest experience, most recently, with Lyme disease is my sister-in-law who is a nurse in the State of Maine. A year ago this summer she had been out walking with my brother and her son and she found a tick in her groin, and they couldn't get it out with tweezers in their own house. In the State of Maine they are always preparing people with what to do in those situations, so they went to the hospital and it took two people working on her; it was that far embedded down. It took two people to get it out and they put her on antibiotics right away, which they say fine, get you on antibiotics right away and you'll be fine, but now in the State of Maine what they do is you're not fine right away. She was home this weekend visiting me and she was telling me that next month, or July I guess it would be, a year after they found it, they still do a follow-up test to ensure that there are no after-effects and that she is totally clean.

[Page 2450]

Here we have the State of Maine, back in the 1980s a student, a friend of mine, took years to be diagnosed, went through those battery of tests, the same as the member for Pictou East explained about: do you have a tumour? Do you have MS? Do you have - you know, it must be in your head. How often do people hear that? It's the same thing with mental illness, how often do you hear?

I really hope that all of us here will really consider this bill. I hope that everyone will go home tonight, do a little bit more investigating, and ask around because it's out there more than people think, maybe even going home and googling Bill No. C-442, the National Lyme Disease Strategy by Elizabeth May. I think we have a lot to learn by this and it think it would be really awesome if we saw Elizabeth May, on a national level, passing this bill and then next in line is Nova Scotia. I mean how proud would that make everyone?

I just want to say, too, that Jim Wilson, who is the president for the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation, states right now that Canada is lagging far behind the U.S. in testing. We know that the tests in Canada and clinical exams are way too narrowly focused for what we're running in the wild, and as I speak about that I want everyone to realize, too, that we used to think the people getting ticks or Lyme disease were hikers, or woodsmen, people who are always out in the woods, and that's not the case at all. They're closer than what you think and I believe in all of the protection and being aware and you can do all the social media that you want to do, but until we put a strategy in place that is actually going to act on this problem, we've got nothing.

Awareness is one thing but acting on it is another thing. You know I always say when we know better, we do better, and we must do better in this situation and I also would like to address our pets. I spoke about my sister-in-law, who I'm sure is going to be fine, she doesn't seem to have any symptoms, but I'm glad she's getting the test in July to confirm that, but sadly, her dog has Lyme disease.

I just don't think that we should be as lax on this topic as we are. I hope once again that you'll all go home, that you'll do a little bit more investigating, and perhaps tomorrow morning you may have a different opinion and a different view on it. That's all I can ask of you and I thank you for letting me speak because I've really never got up and spoken without notes before, so thank you.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

[Page 2451]

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Madam Speaker, I'd just like to add on to what my colleague has said about Lyme disease. Many of us in our caucus have been very concerned. I come from an area in Nova Scotia that has a pocket of Lyme disease, and it was one of the earliest places in Nova Scotia that was determined to have Lyme disease.

I think what we need to know is that our government, we've met with the Department of Health and Wellness, many of my colleagues and caucus, just even last week, and we went over what is being done by our Department of Health and Wellness regarding Lyme disease. We have been assured by our Department of Health and Wellness that they have a plan and a strategy, but it has to be an ongoing strategy because there is still research going on - the IWK is doing a research project.

I know it's a devastating disease. My father-in-law has it, and many friends of mine have had it, and many people in my community have had it, but I can assure you that the Department of Health and Wellness has a strategy, they have a plan and they are working on it, but it's an ongoing thing. The State of Maine has had Lyme disease long before Nova Scotia, so they would be ahead in their research. But we are working on it, Madam Speaker.

MADAM SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Pictou Centre. We have one minute and 10 seconds.

HON. PAT DUNN « » : One minute, thank you, Madam Speaker. Not to point fingers at anyone, I think it's the responsibility of all of us in this House to show leadership, and this is an occasion where we can with regard to Lyme disease in Nova Scotia. We know it's a problem, it has been a problem, the problem is going to increase and we have to have a strategy. We have to have it now, not later, in order to address this situation.

There are lots of examples across the province where people are suffering from Lyme disease. Again, I would like to see a strategy put in place and eventually doctors coming out of our medical schools with a lot of information and lot of expertise with regard to treating Lyme disease, because across the province right now, we have a lot of preventive things and everything else. But are you going to tell a three-year-old or a four-year-old in the middle of the summer, 32 degrees temperature, to . . .

MADAM SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Time has elapsed for late debate. Thank you very much. I want to thank everyone in the House who has taken part in late debate today. It has been very informative, it gives everybody a lot to think about, and I'm still a little itchy, but we won't go there.

Anyway, with that, we stand adjourned until 2:00 p.m. tomorrow.

[The House rose at 6:03 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 2452]

Tabled April 28, 2014

RESOLUTION NO. 1415

By: Mr. Allan MacMaster « » (Inverness)

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

Whereas "The Town Heroes" claimed two awards at this year's ECMA awards in Charlottetown; and

Whereas the group has two members from Inverness County, Mike Ryan of Inverness and Bruce Gillis of Mabou; and

Whereas the band was recognized for ECMA Rising Star Recording of the year and the Fans' Choice Video of the Year;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate "The Town Heroes" on their success.

RESOLUTION NO. 1416

By: Hon. Pat Dunn « » (Pictou Centre)

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

Whereas New Glasgow native Fred Baines has introduced and educated many of our residents about the pleasures and properties of teas; and

Whereas through his travels in Hong Kong, Fred became familiar and interested in the locals use and the health benefits to good quality teas that he had never experienced in our part of the world; and

Whereas upon his return home and being unable to find these quality teas, Fred Baines made it his purpose to seek out suppliers and has set up a shop in the Town of New Glasgow where Fred has made it possible for us to experience the pleasure of a true quality cup of many exotic and foreign teas;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Fred Baines who has brought a part of distant worlds to our town in the form of unique and foreign blends of quality teas.

[Page 2453]

RESOLUTION NO. 1417

By: Hon. Jamie Baillie « » (Cumberland South)

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

Whereas today is the National Day of Mourning on which we remember those who died, were injured, or became ill at work; and

Whereas in 2014 there were more than 25,000 injuries in the workplace and tragically, 17 Nova Scotians died; and

Whereas the Day of Mourning brings much needed awareness and attention to the very serious issue of workplace safety;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly mark the Day of Mourning by remembering those who have died and thank everyone who has worked tirelessly on this campaign to prevent workplace accidents.

RESOLUTION NO. 1418

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Justice)

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

Whereas Eva-Marie Abi Nader, Owen Alphonce, Nathalia Chater, Celine Daaboul, Charbel Dib, Josephine El-Cheikh, George El Moukhtafi, Zakary Faddoul, Gabrielle Hallal, Noor Kahwash, Jessica Kodaysi, Thea Lakis, Madeline Mensour, Steven Metlege, Lourd Naeem, Maria Ramia, Lily Tarabay and Mithell Thomas are celebrating their First Communion on Saturday, May 10, 2014; and

Whereas the children dedicated long hours, with the help of their parents and teachers, to attend classes every Saturday morning; and

Whereas the children will accept the bread and wine as the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ and are encouraged to attend Mass every Sunday to receive Communion;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the 2014 Our Lady of Lebanon Parish First Communion Class and wish them continued success in the future.

[Page 2454]

RESOLUTION NO. 1419

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Justice)

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

Whereas Mary Ann Crowley has been a volunteer figure skating coach with the Special Olympics for the past 29 years; and

Whereas Mary Ann was named the first team captain of the Special Olympics Skating Program in Canada in 1985 and the Canadian Figure Skating Association of Canada named her Volunteer Coach of the Year in 1989 and in 2014; and

Whereas Mary Ann and her husband Paul Crowley have dedicated many years to the Nova Scotia Liberal Party and they were presented with a Long Service Award in recognition of their volunteerism during the 2014 Nova Scotia Liberal Annual General Meeting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mary Ann and Paul Crowley on their outstanding achievements and wonderful spirit, and wish them continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1420

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Justice)

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

Whereas Zakhour Faddoul has been an extremely active volunteer over the past 40 years in Halifax; and

Whereas Halifax Armdale, the parish of Our Lady of Lebanon and the Canadian Lebanon Society of Halifax would not be complete without Mr. Faddoul as he is an important symbol to the community; and

Whereas Mr. Faddoul is a recipient of the 2014 11th Annual Mainland North Volunteer Award in recognition of his volunteerism and his giving of his generous time and efforts to help others and strengthen our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Zakhour Faddoul on his outstanding achievements and volunteerism and wish him continued success in the future.

[Page 2455]

RESOLUTION NO. 1421

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Toni Jewer-Pineau on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1422

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Alaina Britney on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2456]

RESOLUTION NO. 1423

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Ally Garand on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1424

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Anika Mensing on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2457]

RESOLUTION NO. 1425

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Assistant Coach Nick Baskwill on a successful basketball season and wish him continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1426

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Coach Greg Bower on a successful basketball season and wish him continued success in the future.

[Page 2458]

RESOLUTION NO. 1427

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Courtney Garand on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1428

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Eden Burke on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2459]

RESOLUTION NO. 1429

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Emma Gillespie on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1430

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Erica Theisen on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2460]

RESOLUTION NO. 1431

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jennifer Adams on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1432

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Kyra Britney on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2461]

RESOLUTION NO. 1433

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Lauren Wentzell on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1434

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Martina MacKinnon on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2462]

RESOLUTION NO. 1435

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Maridith Brown on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1436

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Sage Dixon on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2463]

RESOLUTION NO. 1437

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Sydney Smith on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1438

By: Hon. Stephen McNeil « » (The Premier)

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

Whereas the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs recently edged Springhill 54-52 to take the NSSAF Division 3 Girls Basketball Provincial Championship on March 1st in Middleton; and

Whereas tough defense and sticking to the game plan were the keys to success against Springhill's tough, explosive offense; and

Whereas Saturday's win marked the second consecutive year that the Monarch girls have taken home the Provincial banner;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Tara Armstrong on a successful basketball season and wish her continued success in the future.

[Page 2464]

RESOLUTION NO. 1439

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Hans Christian Jost and his wife Karen sold Jost Vineyards in Malagash, Cumberland County, two years ago; and

Whereas the Josts bought the library and Houston's Butcher Shop in Tatamagouche, Colchester North, and began work revamping the two buildings; and

Whereas Jost and his family will be opening the Tatamagouche Brewing Company this Spring, with the majority of the process of making the handcrafted local beer open to the public;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Jost family on starting a new business venture in Colchester North, thank them for their valuable contributions to the Nova Scotian economy, and wish them continued success as they so aptly achieved with Jost Wines.

RESOLUTION NO. 1440

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas the Great Village and District Ladies Fire Auxiliary was formed on October 30, 1968, to knit red wool mittens for the volunteer firemen to wear inside their work mittens; and

Whereas the fire hall was totally destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve of the same year, and the auxiliary began to raise money to help with the cost of various needs of the firemen; and

Whereas the group now consists of twelve active members who continue to fundraise throughout the year to assist with the cost of ensuring proper and up-to-date equipment and gear for the volunteer fire department members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Betty MacNeil, a charter member of the Great Village and District Ladies Fire Auxiliary, Colchester North, for being presented a 45-year service award at the annual firemen's banquet, and thank her for her many years of dedicated service to her community.

[Page 2465]

RESOLUTION NO. 1441

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas the Great Village and District Ladies Fire Auxiliary was formed on October 30, 1968, to knit red wool mittens for the volunteer firemen to wear inside their work mittens; and

Whereas the fire hall was totally destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve of the same year, and the auxiliary began to raise money to help with the cost of various needs of the firemen; and

Whereas the group now consists of twelve active members who continue to fundraise throughout the year to assist with the cost of ensuring proper and up-to-date equipment and gear for the volunteer fire department members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Meredith Layton, a charter member of the Great Village and District Ladies Fire Auxiliary, Colchester North, for being presented a 45-year service award at the annual firemen's banquet, and thank her for her many years of dedicated service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1442

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Peter Fahey, former Wilson Equipment owner, now president and CEO of PFI International, a company that invests in solid asset-based business, and his wife, Rhonda, oversaw a Christmas bonus program for underfunded and underprivileged single mothers in Colchester County in 2013; and

Whereas Fahey donated $10,000 toward the initiative and convinced local businesses to donate; and

Whereas fundraising for the program not only came from donations but also from the sale of $5 tickets sold throughout the county for a prize of a $1,000 gift certificate from Inglis Jewellers;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Peter and Rhonda Fahey for their generosity and hard work on behalf of single mothers, and for making the true meaning of Christmas a reality.

RESOLUTION NO. 1443

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Bryan Scallion, who died in 2003 of a brain aneurysm, and his wife, Diane Powell, started the cross-country running and skiing programs at the Cobequid Educational Centre in early 1980s; and

Whereas Scallion was a member of the national B team in cross-country skiing, the national biathlon team, the Nova Scotia Canada Games cross-country ski team, as was his wife, Diane Powell, and also ran marathons, competed in cycling, swim, in masters' events, and was involved in coaching and as an official at the national level; and

Whereas the Bryan Scallion and Diane Powell Award with an accompanying $1,000 bursary is presented to a Cobequid Educational student who must have certain credentials to qualify and must exhibit Bryan's characteristics;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate track star Sarah MacRitchie from Lower Onslow, Colchester North, who ran the 100 m, was part of the 4x100 relay team, and competed in the high jump, for becoming the ninth winner of the Bryan Scallion and Diane Powell Award at the CEC athletic banquet.

RESOLUTION NO. 1444

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas the Loran Scholarship selection process is the most rigorous and personalized in Canada and includes regional and national interviews with up to 12 assessors over three months; and

Whereas character, service, and leadership are the selection criteria for the scholarship, winners must have a minimum average of 85 on their final grades in their three most recent years of study, must value integrity and honesty, demonstrate commitment to service, have a broad range of interests, and have demonstrated potential as leaders; and

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Whereas more than 70 national finalists participated in the two days of selection interviews in Toronto for thirty $80,000 Loran Scholarships, which cover four years at any university in Canada, and include mentorship and a summer program ;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sarah Millman, a Grade 12 student at the Cobequid Educational Centre in Truro, for receiving this very prestigious scholarship, and for her commitment to service and leadership.

RESOLUTION NO. 1445

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas accreditation is a school-based process which leads to positive changes within the school community; and

Whereas schools under the Accreditation Program work to create long-term and sustainable change with improved outcomes in student achievement and school performance; and

Whereas accreditation encourages reflective teacher practice, leads to improved instruction and assessment in schools, provides accountability, fosters learning, and allows teachers to adjust their teaching to support each student;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the staff at the Tatamagouche Elementary School in Colchester North for their enthusiastic and rewarding participation in the Chignecto Central Regional School Board Accreditation Program.

RESOLUTION NO. 1446

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Slow Food International, a highly respected organization with a seat on the G8 discussion table regarding sustainability, has continually supported local initiatives which contribute to education and sustainability of good, clean, fair food for all; and

[Page 2468]

Whereas the national meeting of Slow Food Canada, held in a different location each year, most recently Alberta and British Columbia, will be held in the Village of Tatamagouche, Colchester North, from May 1 to 4, 2014; and

Whereas delegates will have a chance to experience the best of what the Maritimes has to offer through a series of business meetings, farm tours, meals highlighting local cuisine, and a locally inspired, seasonal, multi-course gala dinner prepared by some of the best Nova Scotia chefs and paired with exceptional Nova Scotia wines;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the residents of Tatamagouche for their initiative in applying for and being accepted to host the national meeting of Slow Foods Canada, and thank them for exemplifying our Maritime hospitality and for creating the many financial spin-offs to local producers and businesses.

RESOLUTION NO. 1447

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Justin Thibault, the school president of the graduating class at North Colchester High School, an excellent academic student with a curious nature and a drive for knowledge, has earned Honours with Distinction each year at the school; and

Whereas Justin is also an avid and talented athlete, playing soccer and softball for the school teams, and also played and referred hockey for many years; and

Whereas Justin has received the highest award in the local cadet squadron, has his pilot's license, competes in Math League, is a member of the Reach for the Top team, has earned the silver medal in the Duke of Edinburgh program, and won the prestigious Lieutenant Governor Medal in Grade 11;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Justin Thibault for being named Student of the Month for September 2013 at North Colchester High School, and wish this well-rounded young man success with his future pursuits.

RESOLUTION NO. 1448

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By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Noah Barrett, a Grade 9 student at North Colchester High School in Tatamagouche, Colchester North, is known for his outstanding character traits; and

Whereas Noah is an excellent academic student as well as an athlete who belongs to the basketball team and ski club, competes in track and field, and enjoys skateboarding and snowboarding; and

Whereas this multitalented student is also known as an excellent musician who plays guitar, was instrumental in developing the new Youth Arts Collaboration Group, and sits on the boards of the Fraser Cultural Centre and Creamery Square as the youth representative ;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Noah Barrett for being selected as Student of the Month for February 2014, and wish him well with his future years of study.

RESOLUTION NO. 1449

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Jennie Underwood is a Grade 12 student at North Colchester High School in Tatamagouche, Colchester North; and

Whereas Jennie is known for her positive attitude, her commitment, her kindness to others, her determination to do her best, and her strong sense of responsibility; and

Whereas Jennie's extracurricular activities include volleyball, soccer, softball, goalie for her hockey team, member of the local 4-H Club, and leader and organizer for the After School Program and Girls' Leadership;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jennie Underwood for being selected as the Student of the Month for March 2014, and wish her well in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1450

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By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Devin Hayman, a Grade 12 student at North Colchester High School in Tatamagouche, Colchester North, is an excellent academic student who works hard to excel at his school work, is reliable, responsible, and always willing to help others; and

Whereas Devin is a founding member of the Boys' Leadership Group, and serves as a role model at his school and in his community; and

Whereas Devin, an outdoorsman known for his love of anything related to agriculture or forestry, enjoys working on his farm, hunting, fishing, logging, woodworking, and driving his four wheeler ;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Devin Hayman for being selected as Student of the Month for March 2014, and wish him well with his future pursuits.

RESOLUTION NO. 1451

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Wade Rutherford for receiving a 20-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1452

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By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Trevor Spencer for receiving the Most Improved Firefighter Award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1453

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Terry Spence for receiving the Claude O'Brien Fellowship Award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

[Page 2472]

RESOLUTION NO. 1454

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Masstown Hardware for receiving the Steve Francis Memorial Award, which recognizes a business that has shown outstanding support to the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North, and commend them for their community involvement.

RESOLUTION NO. 1455

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

[Page 2473]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kathy Giles for receiving a 15-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1456

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kate Cameron for receiving a 5-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1457

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

[Page 2474]

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Joe Slack for receiving the Officer of the Year Award and a 20-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1458

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Gregg Kinsman for receiving a 20-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1459

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

[Page 2475]

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Gary Slack for receiving a 20-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th Anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1460

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Derrick Works for receiving the Firefighter of the Year Award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th Anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1461

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

[Page 2476]

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Chris Congdon for receiving a 10-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 88th Anniversary of the Great Village and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1462

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Evan Hansen for receiving a 15-year service award at the annual banquet celebrating the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1463

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

[Page 2477]

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Emile Boudreau for receiving an award for 10 years of service with the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North, plus 22 years with the Enfield Fire Department.

RESOLUTION NO. 1464

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brian Irving for receiving an award for 30 years of service with the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1465

[Page 2478]

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Adrienne MacKay for receiving a 10-year award at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1466

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Keith Wood for receiving an award for 10 years of service at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

[Page 2479]

RESOLUTION NO. 1467

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate LeRoy Hansen for receiving an award for 30 years of service at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1468

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress: and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

[Page 2480]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mark Brownell for being named Member of the Year at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1469

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Nathan MacKinnon for receiving a 10-year award at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1470

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

[Page 2481]

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tracey Hill for receiving a 25-year award at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1471

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Susan Wood for receiving a 10-year award at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

RESOLUTION NO. 1472

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Nova Scotia's volunteer fire brigades are made up of individuals who show their dedication to serving others by contributing hard work, skills and time, often risking their lives, taking on the role of first responders, and dealing with incidents of great emotional stress; and

[Page 2482]

Whereas training, fundraising, recruitment and public relations are only a few of the additional responsibilities of members of a fire brigade; and

Whereas the members of volunteer fire brigades seldom receive the accolades they deserve, an annual banquet is usually held to thank all their members and to present special awards;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tracey Hill for receiving a 25-year award at the 41st annual banquet of the North River and District Fire Brigade in Colchester North.

Tabled April 29, 2014

RESOLUTION NO. 1501

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Justice)

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

Whereas Professor Antoine Jarjoura immigrated to the Province of Nova Scotia in 1990, where he started teaching in French immersion schools, he was the first to teach math and chemistry in French at the high school level; and

Whereas Professor Jarjoura was appointed as an advisor at the Ministry of Education in 1995 and was asked to travel to the United States to research new resources related to his field and implement his findings in the Nova Scotia French Program; and

Whereas Professor Jarjoura received the Emigrant of the Year Award presented by the Honorary Consul for the Maritimes at the Annual Emigrant Day event hosted by the Canadian Lebanon Society of Halifax on March 30, 2014;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Professor Antoine Jarjoura on his awards and accomplishments and wish him to continue to guide and influence our community and younger generations.

RESOLUTION NO. 1502

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By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Justice)

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

Whereas Our Lady of Lebanon Parish will be hosting their 8th annual Lebanese Cedar Festival on June 5, 6, 7 and 8, 2014; and

Whereas I am privileged to have been selected as Honorary Chair Person for this year's festival; and

Whereas the festival brings the best of Lebanese and Canadian culture together for a weekend of traditional food, music, dancing and fun;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the members of Our Lady of Lebanon Parish and the festival organizers on their dedication, commitment and wonderful spirit towards the community and wish them continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1503

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Justice)

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

Whereas cyberbullying is a complex issue affecting Nova Scotians of all ages and causes real harm to its victims and their families; and

Whereas Canada's first cyberbullying investigative unit, CyberSCAN, is a five-person team dedicated to assisting victims, investigating complaints and resolving cyberbullying situations through a variety of informal and formal legal means; and

Whereas this special investigative unit has received more than 150 cyberbullying complaints and has delivered numerous presentations to youth all across the province to educate them about the dangers and repercussions of cyberbullying since opening its doors in the Fall;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House thank the CyberSCAN team for helping to stop this harmful behaviour and for teaching young Nova Scotians about taking responsibility for their actions and about making better decisions in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 1504

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By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas each year leaders from across Nova Scotia come together to share their stories about the role of faith in their private and personal lives at the Nova Scotia Leadership Prayer Breakfast; and

Whereas for many years Bruce Havill of Rockingham has served as chair of a committee of dedicated volunteers who organize this successful event to bring together leaders from business, government and the non-profit sector; and

Whereas this year's breakfast on April 10th included prayers, uplifting music and inspirational remarks from Halifax Mooseheads' owner Bobby Smith, about the role of faith in his life and work;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly thank Bruce Havill for chairing the Nova Scotia Leadership Prayer Breakfast Committee and thank him for bringing leaders together each year for this event, which reminds us of the higher purpose in our work for Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1505

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Medal of the Maple for Distinguished Youth Service is a national award created by the members of the National Youth Committee of Scouts Canada; and

Whereas this prestigious award honours those youth who have significantly contributed to the spirit of scouting through community service, extraordinary scouting participation, and a solid system of personal values; and

Whereas Matthew Deveaux, a Grade 11 student at Halifax West High School and resident of Clayton Park West, has received this distinguished award, which honours his years of dedication to scouting and volunteering in many roles;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly applaud Matthew for earning this prestigious award and wish him every success in his future endeavours.

[Page 2485]

RESOLUTION NO. 1506

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas Robert Patzelt has been a respected member of Halifax's business community with 26 years of service with Scotia Investments and as a volunteer with many organizations, including the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association, the Nova Scotia Bar Society, and Scouts Canada; and

Whereas in January of this year Robert began a new chapter in his career with a move to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, as part of the management team of New Millennium Iron Corporation; and

Whereas Mr. Patzelt was chosen for this challenging new position for his demonstrated energy and enthusiasm, and his outstanding experience and leadership qualities;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize and thank Robert Patzelt for his extensive contributions to Nova Scotia and wish him every success in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 1507

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas each year the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards recognize outstanding individuals from diverse communities who enrich Canada and make it a better place to live; and

Whereas this year the process garnered over 630 deserving candidates from across the country and Akram Al-Otumi of Clayton Park West has earned the distinction of being on the short list of the top 75 nominees for this prestigious award; and

Whereas since arriving in Halifax seven years ago from Yemen, Mr. Al-Otumi has pursued his education, established his own business, and been a mentor to many new Canadians, helping them to transition successfully to our province;

[Page 2486]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Akram Al-Otumi on being honoured as one of the top 75 immigrants to Canada, thank him for his volunteerism and support for other new immigrants, and wish him every success in his future in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 1508

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas at Bayers Lake Superstore, International Women's Day was marked on March 8th with a celebration which included cake and flowers for customers and a special time to celebrate acts of courage and determination by women; and

Whereas the store also marked this day by recognizing Karen Keats with their first Woman of the Year Award in honour of her volunteerism and dedication to the deaf and non-verbal community; and

Whereas the event was celebrated with the presentation of the award and flowers to Karen while her family and her nominator, Delores McKeen, proudly joined others in applauding Karen's commitment to her community and her work;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Karen for her award and wish her every success in her future work, family life, and service to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1509

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance)

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

Whereas the Mainland North Community Service Volunteer Committee has, for the past 11 years, provided awards to people who actively dedicate their time and tremendous abilities to their community; and

Whereas this year's awards were presented on April 24th to seven worthy recipients at a dinner event featuring MC Starr Dobson and welcoming remarks from the Minister of the Voluntary Sector, Kelly Regan; and

[Page 2487]

Whereas Norman Duncan of Birch Cove was recognized at the event for his many years of active volunteering with St. Peter's Anglican Church, the Rockingham Heritage Society, and the Build it Right community organization;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Norman Duncan for this award, and wish him many more years of active service in the community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1510

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the Mainland North Community Service Volunteer Committee has, for the past 11 years, provided awards to people who actively dedicate their time and tremendous abilities to their community; and

Whereas this year's awards were presented on April 24th to seven worthy recipients at a dinner event featuring MC Starr Dobson and welcoming remarks from the Minister of the Voluntary Sector, Kelly Regan; and

Whereas Dale Robertson of Birch Cove was recognized at the event for his many years of active volunteering, including his outstanding commitment to the Nova Scotia Sea School and other sailing organizations;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Dale Robertson for receiving this prestigious award, and thank him for his commitment to making our city and province a better place.

RESOLUTION NO. 1511

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the City of Halifax recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were presented to deserving individuals on April 9, 2014, to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

[Page 2488]

Whereas John and Joyce Lohnes of Clayton Park West were chosen as award recipients for dedicating over 60,000 hours of their time, over 12 years, to Capital Health's Transitional Care Unit;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating John and Joyce for their award, and thank them for making the lives of Nova Scotians better in times of need.

RESOLUTION NO. 1512

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the City of Halifax recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were presented to deserving individuals on April 9, 2014, to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

Whereas Emily Churchill of Clayton Park West was chosen as an award recipient for her creativity in setting up the Accessible Puppet Club for Nova Scotians with autism, Down syndrome, and other challenges;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Emily Churchill on receiving this recognition, and thank her for making life better for Nova Scotians with special needs.

RESOLUTION NO. 1513

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the City of Halifax recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were presented to deserving individuals on April 9, 2014, to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

Whereas Doug MacDonald of Clayton Park West was chosen as an award recipient for his instrumental role in doubling the number of members for the Gaelic Language Society of Halifax in the last two years, and his tremendous work with the Maskwa Aquatic Club and the 1st Birch Cove Scouts;

[Page 2489]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Doug on his award, and thank him for promoting his love of the outdoors and Nova Scotia's time-honoured Gaelic heritage.

RESOLUTION NO. 1514

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the City of Halifax recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were presented to deserving individuals on April 9, 2014, to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

Whereas Nicholetta Bokolas of Clayton Park West was chosen as an award recipient for her devotion to Adsum House and the genuine care she shows to the women and children who are living there;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Nicholetta on her award and thank her for her enthusiasm, professionalism, and the passion she shows for the work of this important organization.

RESOLUTION NO. 1515

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the City of Halifax recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were presented to deserving individuals on April 9, 2014, to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

Whereas Grade 9 student Adrian White, of Clayton Park West, was chosen as an award recipient for the great leadership qualities he demonstrates as leader of the Park West School Volunteer Committee and as an executive member of the school's Student Council;

[Page 2490]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize Adrian on receiving this prestigious award, and join me in congratulating him for inspiring his peers to become more involved in their school and community.

RESOLUTION NO. 1516

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Finance and Treasury Board)

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

Whereas the City of Halifax recognizes outstanding volunteers who consistently dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of others; and

Whereas 100 awards were presented to deserving individuals on April 9, 2014, to celebrate National Volunteer Week; and

Whereas Wilber Huang of Clayton Park West was chosen as an award recipient for his tireless nine-year commitment to promoting Chinese culture in Nova Scotia through the Chinese Society of Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Wilber on this prestigious award, and thank him for promoting a more multicultural and diverse Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 1517

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Allen V. Gosbee is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Allen will graduate from this course;

[Page 2491]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Allen V. Gosbee in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1518

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Khorshed Bhathena is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Khorshed will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Khorshed Bhathena in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1519

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Lillian Barrett is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Lillian will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Lillian Barrett in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1520

[Page 2492]

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Barbara Bennett is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Barbara will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Barbara Bennett in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1521

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Brenda MacNeill is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Brenda will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Brenda MacNeill in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1522

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Joanne Hickey is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

[Page 2493]

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Joanne will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Joanne Hickey in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1523

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Kathleen MacIntyre is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Kathleen will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Kathleen MacIntyre in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1524

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Ken Riles is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Ken will graduate from this course;

[Page 2494]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Ken Riles in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1525

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Margaret Fox is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Margaret will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Margaret Fox in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1526

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Mary-Ellen Myers is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Mary-Ellen will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Mary-Ellen Myers in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1527

[Page 2495]

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Mike Smith is one of six volunteers with the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office conducting a Seniors Academy at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, 32 seniors will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Mike Smith for his unwavering support and commitment as a volunteer in ensuring the success of the completion of this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1528

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Myrtle Slaunwhite is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Myrtle will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Myrtle Slaunwhite in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1529

[Page 2496]

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Pat Harmes is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Pat will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Pat Harmes in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1530

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Peggy Yearwood is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Peggy will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Peggy Yearwood in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1531

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Rita Shore is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

[Page 2497]

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Rita will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Rita Shore on successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1532

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Rita Smith is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Rita will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Rita Smith on successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1533

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Robert Thompson is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Robert will graduate from this course;

[Page 2498]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Robert Thompson on successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1534

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Rose Smith is one of six volunteers at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, 32 seniors will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Rose Smith for her unwavering support and commitment as a volunteer in ensuring the success of the completion of this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1535

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Ruby J. Gosbee is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Ruby will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Ruby J. Gosbee in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1536

[Page 2499]

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Shapur Bhathena is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Shapur will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Shapur Bhathena on successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1537

By Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Ted McLean is one of six volunteers with the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office conducting a Seniors Academy at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, 32 seniors will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Ted McLean for his unwavering support and commitment as a volunteer in ensuring the success of the completion of this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1538

[Page 2500]

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Tom Harmes is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Tom will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Tom Harmes in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1539

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Tom Hickey is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Tom will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Tom Hickey in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1540

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Tom William is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

[Page 2501]

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Tom will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Tom William in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1541

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Madge Reinhart is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Madge will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Madge Reinhart in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1542

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Madonna William is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Madonna will graduate from this course;

[Page 2502]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Madonna William in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1543

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Brenda Preeper is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Brenda will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Brenda Preeper in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1544

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Chris Thompson is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Chris will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Chris Thompson in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1545

[Page 2503]

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Christine Hurley is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Christine will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Christine Hurley in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1546

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Christine Thompson is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Christine will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Christine Thompson in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1547

[Page 2504]

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Constable Brenda Elson is one of six volunteers with the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office conduction a Seniors Academy at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, 32 seniors will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Constable Brenda Elson for her unwavering support and commitment as a volunteer in ensuring the success of the completion of this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1548

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Debbie McLean is one of six volunteers with the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office conduction a Seniors Academy at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, 32 seniors will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Debbie McLean for her unwavering support and commitment as a volunteer in ensuring the success of the completion of this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1549

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By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Garnetta Ramey is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Garnetta will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Garnetta Ramey in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1550

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Jean Davis is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Jean will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jean Davis in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1551

By: Ms. Joyce Treen « » (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Jean Monette is one of 32 participants at the Seniors Academy being conducted by the Eastern Passage RCMP Community Safety Office at the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Fire Hall; and

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Whereas this six-week course educates seniors on how to feel safe in their homes, information on health care, and many other important facts; and

Whereas on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, Jean will graduate from this course;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jean Monette in successfully completing this highly-valuable course.

RESOLUTION NO. 1552

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas changes have occurred in such things as the size of buildings, the height, the pitch of roofs, the types of shingles, the depth of ditches, and the width of sidewalks, firefighting equipment must also evolve and change; and

Whereas the Valley Kemptown District Fire Brigade in Colchester North purchased a new state-of-the-art 37.5-ton aerial fire truck which can transport six firefighters, features a 1,500 gallon-per- minute pump, and can carry up to 55 gallons of water; and

Whereas the computer-driven ladder can stretch 101 feet into the air at a 76 angle or 94 feet straight off the side of the truck, has a basket with a monitor that can handle up to 1,000 gallons of water per minute, and an on-board communication system that keeps firefighters in the basket and on the ground in constant communication;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Valley Kemptown Fire Brigade for the acquisition of their new fire truck, the first aerial truck in Colchester County, and commend them as they continue training to become familiar with the truck's many features for improved services.

RESOLUTION NO. 1553

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas the Elizabeth Bishop Society of Nova Scotia, which promotes the childhood connection of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and short-story writer Elizabeth Bishop to Great Village, Colchester North, celebrated the Elizabeth Bishop Centenary in 2011 and supported several legacy projects which developed from those celebrations; and

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Whereas one of those legacy projects involved ten of Bishop's poems in new settings by four renowned Canadian composers and sung by internationally renowned Acadian soprano Suzie LeBlanc; and

Whereas the CD titled I am in need of music is the result of the work of many people - the talented composers, musicians, technicians, Centrediscs, generous donors, the Canada Council for the Arts, and especially Suzie LeBlanc whose commitment, enthusiasm, dedication, and contributions ensured the success of this musical work;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Elizabeth Bishop Society of Nova Scotia for their legacy project, and Suzie LeBlanc for winning the East Coast Music Award for Best Classical Album.

RESOLUTION NO. 1554

By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Ducks Unlimited Canada works with students and educators to support Wetland Centres of Excellence in select schools where funding and resources allow; and

Whereas Ducks Unlimited Canada has announced the designation of Somerset and District Elementary School as a Wetland Centre of Excellence, making it the only elementary school in Canada to receive this designation; and

Whereas the financial support of the Cornwallis Headwaters Society and the enthusiasm of the teachers and students and other community partners who will partake in the stewardship of wetlands in the Berwick area have made this possible;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Somerset and District Elementary School for becoming one of the 18 designated schools in Canada who will receive funding to deliver various wetland-related action projects in the community and provide mentorship to others.

RESOLUTION NO. 1555

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By: Hon. Karen Casey « » (Education and Early Childhood Development)

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

Whereas Ducks Unlimited Canada is a leader in wetland conservation that recognizes the contributions of people 25 and under, who are taking action to help protect wetlands in their communities, with the Wetland Hero Award; and

Whereas Liam Kozera, a Grade 7 student at Somerset and District Elementary School, asked for donations for wetland conservation for his seventh birthday rather than presents; and

Whereas Ducks Unlimited Canada celebrated Liam's selflessness and dedication to protecting Canada's wetlands with a Wetlands Hero Award;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Liam Kozera on his award, and thank him for his dedication to protecting wetlands here in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 1556

By Mr. Chuck Porter « » (Hants West)

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

Whereas just under half a million Nova Scotians volunteer annually, contributing $1.8 billion worth of services to Nova Scotia's economy; and

Whereas Chris Cuvilier is a superb member of this group of volunteers and goes about his volunteering efforts in a cheerful manner with the Town of Hantsport and, as a result, the town has been honoured this year to recognize Chris as their 2014 Provincial Volunteer Representative as a result of his work with the minor baseball program for the past 12 years, while also coaching the Hantsport Junior High boys' and girls' softball teams, along with his help with minor basketball; and

Whereas Chris is also a charter member of the Bluenose Bosox Brotherhood, which raises money for the Jimmy Fund in Boston and the IWK Health Centre;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the outstanding work done by Chris Cuvilier who likes to dig in and help out wherever he can, such as the highway cleanup recently conducted for the town and his involvement in organizing a summer concert this year, while wishing him every future success.

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