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HALIFAX, FRIDAY, MAY 20, 2016

Sixty-second General Assembly

Second Session

9:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Mr. Gordon Wilson, Mr. Keith Irving

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. We'll now being with the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition:

"We, the undersigned, as traditional users of the Ship Harbour Long Lake Wilderness Area draw the attention of the House to the following: That motorized access is being denied to lakes in the Ship Harbour Long Lake Wilderness Area. . . . Therefore, we the undersigned call upon the government to allow continued motorized access to the trails and lakes as had existed in the past."

There are 1,251 signatures and I have affixed my own.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

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STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 4399

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

Whereas representatives from the MOU Steering Committee leading the Pictou amalgamation who visited this House this past week have shown courage and tenacity throughout the municipal reform process; and

Whereas there exists many benefits of the four Pictou municipalities joining forces to provide effective, efficient, sustainable local government for their citizens; and

Whereas based on the evidence, the URB agrees and on April 29^th released their preliminary order in favour of amalgamation;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House commend the work of the steering committee, and congratulate them on the leadership and vision displayed throughout this process.

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

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PICTOU EAST MLS: PICTOU CO. ORATOR - RECOGNITION

MR. EDDIE ORRELL « » : I rise today to recognize one of our own who has had an honour bestowed on him that no other has had since I've been in this Legislature.

From his humble beginnings of not being able to shine shoes to being widely recognized here in this Legislature, congratulations to the member for Pictou East for being regarded as the great orator from Pictou County. We congratulate the member for Yarmouth for recognizing what we already know, that he is the great orator. We look forward to hearing more from this member.

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

MCCLUSKEY, GLORIA - RETIREMENT

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : As I have mentioned before, the esteemed city councillor Gloria McCluskey is ending her tenure as the representative for District 5, Dartmouth Centre.

Several bright, talented, and motivated candidates have emerged, and as all members of the House know, putting yourself out there is a significant personal decision. I look forward to working with whomever emerges as the new city councillor in Dartmouth Centre, and wish all the candidates the best of luck.

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

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : May I make an introduction, please?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. MILLER « » : I hope that our guest is sitting in the Speaker's Gallery. (Interruptions) Not there yet. I'll wait a minute. Thank you.

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

PICKARD, MAGGIE/MURTHA, JACK - HFX. WEST HS:

CO-PRESIDENTS - CONGRATS.

MS. PATRICIA ARAB « » : I rise today to congratulate Maggie Pickard and Jack Murtha on their election as co-presidents for the 2016-17 year at Halifax West High School.

Involvement in student government at Halifax West consists of promoting the importance of getting involved with volunteer opportunities in the community, keeping the school environmentally friendly, fundraising, the importance of living an active lifestyle through school sports, raising awareness about mental health and stress, the importance of inclusion, gathering food for the less fortunate, raising morale, and so much more. Maggie and Jack are outgoing, energetic leaders who are committed to exceeding expectations in the role of co-presidents for the upcoming school year.

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I wish to recognize Maggie and Jack for their commitment to their school, and wish them every success in their leadership roles in the 2016-17 year. Thank you.

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

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : Could I make an introduction, please?

MR. SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

MS. MILLER « » : I draw the attention of the House to the Speaker's Gallery, where we have a guest today. He is the Honourable Perry Trimper, the Minister of Environment and Conservation for Newfoundland and Labrador; the Minister Responsible for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency; the Minister responsible for the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board; the Minister Responsible for the Labour Relations Agency; the Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs; and the member for Lake Melville.

I don't know how he found the time to come here. Welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : That's quite a business card indeed.

The honourable member for Argyle-Barrington.

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION - ANNIV. WISHES/

ANNE D'ENTREMONT - ANNIV. WISHES

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : The May long weekend has been regarded I think as the first great weekend that Nova Scotians and people throughout the world look at to get married. In 1995, 21 years ago, both myself and the Leader of the Official Opposition were married. (Applause) Fortunately to two very smart and beautiful ladies. So to the Leader of the Official Opposition and his wife, Sandra, I would like to wish them a happy 21^st Wedding Anniversary and to my wife Anne, beautiful and strong, especially for putting up with me for all these years, Happy Anniversary to my beautiful wife, Anne.

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

CAMP HILL HOSP.: KOREAN VET - ACCESS DENIAL EXPLAIN

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HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, news that a Korean War veteran has been denied access to Camp Hill raises further questions about how our country treats veterans. The man spent a year in Korea where five of the men who served in his battalion were killed. However, because the conflict was deemed to have been officially ended two months prior to his deployment, he is not eligible to receive long-term care at Camp Hill.

Mr. Speaker, this man served our country for over 27 years. His wife says his case is about more than her husband, it's about removing the rules and technicalities that stand between veterans and the help they deserve. I hope that this couple will be able to work with Veterans Canada to arrive at a workable solution to allow this veteran the support he deserves. Canadians expected better from this new federal government.

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

ZIGZAG HAIR STUDIO: WASTE REDUCTION - CONGRATS.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take a moment today to recognize a hair salon in Bedford that has been in operation since 2001. ZigZag Hair Studio is one of 11 Green Circle salons in Nova Scotia. Green Circle is a Canadian company that helps salons across the country reduce waste. The company's goal is to cut salon-generated landfill deposits to zero by 2020, in an affordable and sustainable way.

Busy salons like ZigZag use a lot of chemicals on a daily basis. The coordinator at ZigZag Hair Studio, Lori MacLeod-Doyle, has introduced environmentally-friendly practices so the salon can dispose of hair, metals and chemicals in a more sustainable way. ZigZag Hair Studio is a leader in offering green choices and I'd like to congratulate Lori and her staff on their efforts.

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

BROOKLYN BREAD RUN (3^rd ANL.): PARTICIPANTS - CONGRATS.

MR. CHUCK PORTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise in my place this morning and recognize and congratulate all those who took part in the Third Annual Bread Run held in Brooklyn, Hants County, on May 14^th. Ninety youth and 150 adults took part in the five and 10-kilometre run, raising money for a very worthwhile cause. All proceeds received from the event are donated to help kids participate in living a healthy and active lifestyle.

I want to thank the more than 30 volunteers who helped to make this happen and organizers Alicia Wile, Amber Brooks, Mandy Singleton, Ashleigh Church, Amy Schofield, Sarah White and Andrea Parker, and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

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

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MURPHY, DON: TRENTON RAIL CAR PLANT - SERV. (40 YRS.)

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, the Bureau of Labour and Statistics reports that workers today are staying at their jobs only 4.6 years on average. I would like to take this opportunity to speak about a long-time employee who has worked at the former Trenton rail car plant for the past four decades. Don Murphy, a Trenton resident, began working in December 1973, under the ownership of Hawker-Siddeley Canada. He continued working at the mammoth-sized facility for Trenton Works Lavalin, with an independent rail car manufacturer Greenbrier Company of Oregon, and finally Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering.

Don acquired his Red Seal ticket and used his expertise as a millwright to ply his trade in the maintenance department. He always had the best interests of the plant in mind and was the vice-president of Local 1231 for two terms. During the past five years Don was maintenance supervisor with DSTN's wind turbine operation. Don faced each day at work with a combination of passion, dedication, hard work, and concern for fellow employees.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMN. - RECOMMENDATIONS

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Unfortunately this Liberal Government has made no real movement yet on the more than 20 provincial Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommendations. As Justice Murray Sinclair has repeated from each corner of the country, the work of reconciliation must be undertaken by all Canadians and provinces, especially those who are in positions of power.

The work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission must not be in vain, Mr. Speaker, and I urge the government to take action on the recommendations outlined by the commissioners' landmark report.

Mr. Speaker, we have a long way to go before true reconciliation with our First Nations People can be possible, so let's get on with the work.

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

PARK WEST SCH.: CHESS TEAMS/COACHES - CONGRATS.

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the accomplishments of the chess team at Park West School. The school had an excellent showing at the 2016 Nova Scotia School Chess Championships. The junior high team took home top honours with a first-place finish, and the elementary team placed second for the entire province.

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There are four students on each team. Jerjis Kapra, Emily Wei, Harvy Garcia, and Nadevni Naidappuwa Waduge are on the elementary team, and the junior high team is comprised of Dulhan Naidappuwa Waduge, Quoc Tran, Brian Peters, and Kevin Li. These students have dedicated themselves to learning chess and have been fortunate to have the excellent support of coaches who share their love of the game. Their hard work has paid off and they're now preparing for national playoffs.

Mr. Speaker, I ask the members of the Legislature to join me in congratulating the Park West Chess teams and coaches Mr. Cunningham and Mr. Flinn for their success, and wish them all the best in the playoffs.

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

MACLEAN, LUKE & TYLER - COMMUN. CONTRIBUTIONS

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to recognize the generosity of brothers Luke and Tyler MacLean of Scotsburn, Pictou County.

Luke, seven, and Tyler, eight, have brought the Lions Club Recycle for Sight program to 18 schools in the Celtic Family school district. The MacLeans will be collecting used eyeglasses to be recycled and distributed to those that need them in third-world countries.

I would like to thank Luke and Tyler for giving back to their community and demonstrating that you are never too young to play an active role in making the world a better place.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Queens-Shelburne.

ROSEWAY HOSP.: ER CLOSURES - MIN. ADDRESS

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, this sitting I have documented more than 500 hours of ER closures at Roseway since the Minister of Health and Wellness came to Shelburne to tell the residents that he had a plan to keep the ER open.

This is not a running joke, but rather a very serious issue with lives potentially on the line. I have shown my emotions here on the floor of the House of Assembly because the people of Queens-Shelburne and surrounding areas deserve better from this minister and this government.

When this sitting is over, I hope the minister will not simply head out onto the barbeque circuit. Instead, I encourage the minister to get down to work to address the growing problems of ER closures at Roseway.

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Mr. Speaker, when it comes to documenting these ER closures, I can only hope that this is not to be continued.

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

PIZZA DELIGHT (ANTIGONISH): RECOGNITION - CONGRATS.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, the Pizza Delight in Antigonish has been a staple on Main Street for many years and has been the setting of regular lunches and dinners for many Antigonishers.

In May 2013, Neil Myers took ownership of the business. He and his team took what was already a well-known, established location and transformed it into a true inspiration for not only other Pizza Delight locations, but for other members of the Antigonish business community. This transformation has drawn national attention. Pizza Delight Canada has recently recognized the Antigonish location for being one of the top ten Pizza Delights in the country for outstanding service, as well as for increasing sales by 10 per cent or more over the last fiscal year.

Manager Melinda MacLean was also recognized for her relentless dedication, involvement, and connection with the customers while playing a vital role in the growth and revitalization of the location. As Neil says, he might be the owner, but Melinda is definitely the boss.

I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in congratulating Neil, Melinda, and their entire team for their outstanding performance and deserved recognition.

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

JENNINGS, ERIC: N.S. AGRIC. COLLEGE/DAL

- DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, the Distinguished Alumni Award, the most prestigious award presented to Nova Scotia Agricultural College/Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture alumni, recognizes truly outstanding service and commitment to the Faculty of Agriculture, industry, and the alumni association. The 2015 recipient of this award was Eric Jennings from Masstown in Colchester North, best known as the founder and owner of the Masstown Market.

The market includes a grocery store, two restaurants, a deli, a bakery, an ice cream counter, gift shop, garden centre, outdoor picnic area, fish market, dog kennels for use of visitors, a lighthouse complete with Bay of Fundy interpretive displays, and a Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation outlet, all on a 9.5-acre property. Across the road are a corn maze, a playground, a welcome centre, a gas station, and a Tim Hortons Express.

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Eric is a major local employer, up to 200 staff, many of them students in peak season. His entrepreneurial spirit, work ethic, support for agriculture, desire to build the economy of the area, his well-respected friendly family business, and his generosity to both rural and provincial charities are just a few of the many reasons that Eric Jennings is one of the most respected and admired businessmen in the province.

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

HAPPY NEIGHBOURS CLUB - CUMB. SO.

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, today I'd like to recognize the Happy Neighbours Club which consists of Ruby Kirkpatrick, president; Evelyn Haley, secretary; Renee Carter, treasurer; and members Margie Arnold, Betty Bird, Barb MacKay, Joan Rushton, Helena Gordon, Annie Davison and Janet Tattrie. They assist organizations and people in need in Cumberland South by fundraising through yard sales, bake sales, auctions, and turkey burger sales. They provide baskets to the sick, Christmas gifts for children in needy families; they plant flowers to enhance the community, deliver gifts to seniors and so much more.

Now the Happy Neighbours Club is disbanding; they will truly be missed. I wish to congratulate the Happy Neighbours Club and thank them for their outstanding, generous work over the years, and wish them all the best in the future.

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

PREM. - POVERTY COMMENTS

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to refer the House to comments made by the honourable Premier when he was in Opposition. When talking about poverty in Nova Scotia, he stated, "when you look at things that happen in this province around crime, especially with our young people, I think you can trace that back to the issue of poverty - plain and simple."

While I couldn't agree more with this assertion, right now in the HRM, we are having serious issues related to crime and I think the Premier's words from 2007 ring true today. Mr. Speaker. I hope that as this House rises and ministers and members get back to their other duties, we think about the Premier's words on how best to combat crime in Nova Scotia - by addressing poverty.

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

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MACEACHEN INSTIT. FOR PUBLIC POLICY & GOVERNANCE (DAL.)

- OPENING

MR. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the recent opening of the MacEachen Institute for Public Policy and Governance at Dalhousie. Allan J. is a good family friend, especially to my late grandmother, the late Mary Catherine Rankin. His office was located in the Co-op store my grandfather Archie Rankin managed and my father was his first constituency manager in Port Hawkesbury.

Allan J. MacEachen was a politician who never gave up on his belief of reform at a time when reform was not fashionable. Allan's actions led to reform in the Labour Code, establishing a new standard for minimum wage. He piloted Medicare through a divided House of Commons, the Old Age Security Act, the Canada Assistance Plan, and the list goes on and on.

I would like the members of the House to recognize these achievements. I am an unapologetic MacEachen Liberal.

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

WOODMASTER TOOLS (COL. CO.)

- N.S. EXPORTER OF YR. AWARD (2016)

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, Woodmaster Tools of Clifton, Colchester County, pioneered a new way to manufacture moulding knives for woodworkers and they sell and distribute their product worldwide. In October Woodmaster Tools was awarded the Truro and Colchester Chamber of Commerce Exporter of the Year Award in recognition of their excellence in exporting outside of Nova Scotia and for achieving noticeable growth as a result of entering the global marketplace, while making a significant contribution to the growth of the local economy.

As a regional winner, Woodmaster Tools is one of 10 nominees for the 2016 Nova Scotia Exporter of the Year Award. I wish to congratulate Woodmaster Tools and the other nine nominees on their success in exporting and the best of luck at the 2016 Export Achievement Award ceremony on May 26^th.

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

VLT REVENUES - INCREASES: PROBLEM GAMBLING - CONCERNS

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, VLT revenues are estimated to reach a total of $146.6 million, a total increase of $27.1 million. Over the past two years VLT revenues have increased in Nova Scotia by $37.8 million. The Liberals are trying to balance their budget on the backs of problem gamblers; I say it's time to change that.

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At one point in time the Minister of Health and Wellness introduced legislation to ban VLTs altogether and now seems completely comfortable with the tremendous increase in revenues we are seeing. It is common practice of this government to flip-flop on issues, however, the issue of problem gambling seems like too serious an issue to reverse course on, Mr. Speaker. I hope the government takes action.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney-Whitney Pier.

KOCHHAR, ROHIT - LT.-GOV.'S MEDAL

MR. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : I rise to talk about an exceptional young man in my community, Sydney Academy student Rohit Kochhar. I first met Rohit, as a councillor almost ten years ago, when he presented a petition to his councillor for a better sidewalk to ride his bike on. Fast-forward to today, and Rohit was the recent recipient of the Lieutenant Governor's Medal; he is a founding member of the CBRM Youth Council; he is a founding member of CBRM Youth Who Care; and his academic performance will take him to travel abroad this coming summer.

Mr. Speaker, I want to rise in my place today to congratulate Rohit for all of his success both in school and in the community, thank him for his community commitment and his community leadership, and wish him all the best in his future career and his future studies abroad.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Kings South. (Interruptions) Pardon me. The honourable member for Kings North.

ST. JOSEPH'S STAGE PROPHETS: JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT - PRODUCTION

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : I know we're very similar, Mr. Speaker. (Laughter)

I rise today to tell members that the Kentville-based St. Joseph's Stage Prophets are presenting their 14^th production. This year they are putting the musical theatrical production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - last night was opening night, actually. The group is playing at the Wolfville Festival Theatre from May 19^th to May 22^nd.

A production of this magnitude is supported by talented actors, creative costumes, two children's choirs, innovative set designs, and many, many hours of dedication and time from the cast and volunteers. This production is much more than rehearsing lines and learning movements - it's about building stronger individuals and communities; it's about community at its finest.

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Please join me in wishing director Mary Hanneman and the Stage Prophets all the best with this production.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

BLUE NOSE MARATHON:

ORGANIZERS/VOLS./PARTICIPANTS - CONGRATS.

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : The Scotiabank Blue Nose Marathon is the largest running event in Eastern Canada. This year's event takes place over three days, from May 20^th to May 22^nd. The event offers something for runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels. The event includes a 5K, 10K, half marathon, full marathon, and youth run.

Many participants use the opportunity to raise funds for their favourite causes. This includes many of my constituents from Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River. This is an exciting event that takes over downtown Halifax. The numbers are not yet confirmed, but close to 3,000 people have registered for the 10K event alone.

On behalf of the NDP caucus, I'd like to congratulate all of the organizers and volunteers, and wish the thousands of participants good weather and good speed.

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

KERR, GREG: RETIREMENT - WELL WISHES

MR. GORDON WILSON « » : I hope the Tories are listening today as I rise to recognize Mr. Greg Kerr for his years of service to our community, our province, and our country, and to wish him a happy retirement, having announced in 2014 his intention not to run in the last federal election, of 2015. This would be the first time in some time that he would be sitting out a campaign, at least as a candidate.

Mr. Kerr represented West Nova as MP twice, first in 2008 and then in 2011. He also represented the riding of Annapolis West, where he was in the House of Assembly from 1978 to 1993. During that time, Mr. Kerr held a number of Cabinet portfolios, including Minister of Finance; He spent four years in municipal politics. So now he is retired to his home in Granville Centre, the area where he started his career as a teacher at Bridgetown Regional High School.

I wish him a happy retirement, but I'm not certain that it will be a quiet one. I expect that Mr. Kerr will continue filling some of his time volunteering in his community.

The best to you, Greg, and your wife, Marcia. Thank you.

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

TOBIN, SHEILA - PRIMARY CLASS: ODDFELLOWS RESIDENCE - VISITS

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : I am pleased to rise today to applaud Sheila Tobin, Grade Primary teacher at Pictou Elementary. Ten years ago, Sheila began taking her Primary class every month to the Maritime Oddfellows seniors' residence in Pictou. She recognized the importance of teaching her students respect, compassion and empathy, and these visits have become an invaluable tool. The seniors are overjoyed spending time playing games and doing crafts with the children.

I commend Sheila Tobin and Pictou Elementary for supporting this program that further strengthens bonds in our community.

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

SECOND CHANCES BAND PROG. - CONGRATS.

MR. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the incredible people at the Second Chances Band Program of Nova Scotia. The Second Chances Band Program encourages adults and provides them with opportunities to learn to read music, play a concert band instrument, and perform in a musical setting.

They practise their skills and hone their talents in Spryfield and they are regular participants in community events such as the Spryfield Santa Claus Parade - the oldest in HRM - and the annual Harvest Festival. This year the Second Chances Beginner Band, Jazz Band and Concert Band performed at this year's Atlantic Festival of Music, which was held at Mount Saint Vincent University on April 26^th to 29^th. I am so pleased to report that they achieved gold standing, silver standing and gold standing respectively.

I would ask that the whole House join me in congratulating the Second Chances Band Program of Nova Scotia and wish them continued success in the years to come.

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

EEL LAKE OYSTER FARM - EXPORTER OF YR. NOMINATION

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, on Thursday, May 26, 2016, Nova Scotia Business Inc. will host the 32^nd Annual Nova Scotia Export Achievement Awards Luncheon. Ten Nova Scotia businesses will be honoured for their success in exporting and one will be named Exporter of the Year. Among them is Eel Lake Oyster Farm. It is located on the clean shores of the Eel Lake in Ste. Anne du Ruisseau in my constituency. Owner/operators Nolan and Kim D'Eon pride themselves in producing plump, delicious oysters with a very intense taste. In 2012 they were awarded the Taste of Nova Scotia's Prestige Award of Excellence Consumer Choice Product of the Year.

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Please join me in congratulating Eel Lake Oyster Farm, Nolan and Kim D'Eon for their hard work and dedication to their product, ensuring that they serve the best quality product possible and wish them continued success in the future. Yum, yum.

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

HAMMONDS PLAINS HERITAGE DAY:

HPABA/HAMMONDS PLAINS COMMUN. CTR. - THANK

MR. BEN JESSOME « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take the opportunity to spread the word about an event to take place this summer in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville. The Hammonds Plains Area Business Association has taken it upon themselves to revive the former Labour Day Picnic with the inaugural Hammonds Plains Heritage Day to be held on Saturday, August 13^th.

We are a community that is filled with spirit, compassion, diversity, and a rich history incorporating peoples from many backgrounds. The Hammonds Plains Heritage Day will be an opportunity for local organizations, our neighbours and visitors to the area to highlight the strengths that exist in our community. We are very proud that we continue to make connections and collaborate on initiatives like this event and this will be a great opportunity to celebrate our history.

Mr. Speaker, my friends and neighbours enjoy our summers in Hammonds Plains and I am happy to welcome this additional "To Do" this August 13^th and I want to congratulate the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association and the Hammonds Plains Community Centre for putting this together.

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

JOE EARLE MEM. RD. RACES: EARLE FAM./VOLS. - THANK

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, approximately 400 runners of all ages from across the Maritimes will travel to Trenton this weekend. The Joe Earle Memorial Road Races will occur on Monday at the track adjacent to Scotia Park. Founder Joe Earle started this fun event 52 years ago. His focus at the time was simply to give the youth an opportunity to compete in the sport.

Following the numerous races on Monday morning, runners along with their families are invited back to the Trenton Community Arena for a ham and salad dinner and the presentation of medal and trophies. I would ask all members of this Legislature to thank the Earle family and all the volunteers for their commitment to road racing during the past five decades.

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MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Queens-Shelburne.

NOVA STAR: DEBTS - REPAYMENT

HON. STERLING BELLIVEAU « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to address the Minister of TIR. Throughout this sitting the minister has shown his steadfast commitment to the latest instalment of the Yarmouth ferry. However, I want to remind him of something, before he heads out onto the barbeque circuit. I want to remind him of those who have not been paid for the services rendered on the Nova Star.

Mr. Speaker, the minister has committed tens of millions of dollars to the new ferry service. Last year the department spent more than $430 million. This year the minister has submitted a budget for his department totalling more than $460 million. That's a lot of money, however, despite all this money to go around, the minister could not find any money to pay the piper.

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

WAGMATCOOK - YOUTH AGAINST DRUGS RALLY

MS. PAM EYKING « » : Mr. Speaker, I could not be prouder than I am today to be able to stand here in the Legislature to say that the youth in my constituency are taking a stand against prescription drug abuse.

The student council of the Wagmatcook school recognized the growing problem of prescription drug abuse in their community. To address this issue, they sought the assistance of Barry Bernard, Priscilla Googoo, the RCMP, and Wagmatcook's school chief and council to organize the communities' Youth Against Drugs rally, which will take place on June 3^rd.

A march will take place starting at the local church, and will move to the Wagmatcook cultural centre, where a community feast will be held to conclude the rally. They're hoping that other schools will join them on this day and participate in similar showings of support of their communities.

To quote Mr. Bernard, "Drugs don't believe in colour. They affect everyone." We all have a responsibility to address this issue of drug abuse and addiction.

Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the youth of Wagmatcook for recognizing the devastating effects that drugs have on individuals, families, and communities. I ask that the House join me in congratulating them for taking a stand.

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

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LEGISLATIVE PAGES/STAFF - THANK

MR. LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, the Legislature has sat now for a number of days to do government business. There have been moments of unity and of laughter, and there also have been moments of tension and opposition, but we've all gathered to do our jobs.

It may be that this will be the last time that we will meet again in this place. So to the Pages and all who make this place run, I offer my thanks, and wish the members of the Legislature a good summer, to have a loving time with family and friends and an enjoyable, productive time with constituents. Be safe, be kind, and God bless.

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

NAUSS, JENNA LYNN/WHALEN, ANDREW WILLIAM

- LT.-GOV.'S MEDALS

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, each year since 1961, the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia has presented the Lieutenant Governor's Education Medal to Grade 11 students across the province. Every year, each high school in the province is given the opportunity to nominate two students in Grade 11, one female and one male, for this notable award. Students are selected based on commendable performance in the courses in which they are enrolled and for demonstrating qualities of leadership and service in the school and community.

This year at New Germany Rural High School, the Honourable J.J Grant, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, presented medals to Jenna Lynn Nauss and Andrew William Whalen.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of the House to join me in congratulating Jenna and Andrew for earning the honour presented to them by the Lieutenant Governor with the Education Medal.

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

ROWSELL, EVE/AALDERS, RACHEL/RE USED RESALE CO-OP

- MOBIUS AWARD

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, a pair of community- and environmentally-minded sisters, Eve Rowsell and Rachel Aalders, opened an innovative second-hand shop in New Minas called RE used resale Co-op Ltd. in May 2014.

On October 14, 2015, only a year and a half later, they were awarded the Mobius Award for Environmental Excellence as Small Business of the Year. The Mobius Awards highlight people and businesses who are passionate about improving our environment through waste management and recycling. Ms. Rowsell and Ms. Aalders encourage people to repurpose and recycle, and also help people get on their feet again by donating items to non-profit community organizations.

[Page 9893]

On behalf of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, I would like to recognize and thank Eve Rowsell, Rachel Aalders, and RE used resale Co-op Ltd. for making an economic impact in our community while helping individuals, families, and the environment.

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

WAVERLEY-FALL RIVER-BEAVER BANK MLA

- MELVIN JONES FELLOWSHIP AWARD

MR. STEPHEN GOUGH « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my fellow MLA, the member for Waverly-Fall River-Beaver Bank. He was honoured by the Fall River and District Lions Club with the highest honour given by Lions Club International, the Melvin Jones Fellowship award.

The fellowship, created in 1973, is named for the founder of Lions Club International, Melvin Jones, and represents humanitarian qualities such as generosity, compassion, and concern for the less fortunate. The member was recognized for his dedication, long-term service, generosity, compassion, and concern for the less fortunate.

Receiving the award was a surprise to him, but not to his fellow Lions members, who have witnessed his dedication to the Lions organization for the past 20 years.

Congratulations on your well-deserved award. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

COLE HBR.-EAST. PASSAGE - THE BIG BOOK BONANZA

MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : In recognition of Literacy Day, which took place on January 27^th, my office decided to host a week-long event that we named The Big Book Bonanza. A simple enough concept of giving away free books and hot chocolate soon steamrolled into a five-day event and now has extended to a mobile book giveaway. Our first mobile book bonanza was in South Woodside and was a huge success. The kids enjoyed hot chocolate and receiving a free book. Recently we held one at Caldwell Road Elementary School, and with the nicer weather, the kids received a Freezee with their book. We have more book bonanzas planned for the rest of the month and for June. Being able to put a book in the hands of children and seeing them smile makes all the hard work worthwhile.

[Page 9894]

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

WEIR, GORDON & DORIS - ANNIV. (65^th)

MR. BILL HORNE « » : Good morning, Mr. Speaker. On April 14^th, Gordon and Doris Weir of Winsor Junction celebrated their 65^th Wedding Anniversary. Their celebration of 65 years of marriage is a marvellous achievement and serves as a wonderful example of kindness and consideration to their family and community. I'd like to extend my best wishes to Gordon and Doris during this wonderful milestone in their married life and wish them happiness in the future as they continue their lifelong journey.

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

STROINK, ANNEKE LUCIENNE - GR. 6 GRAD.

MR. JOACHIM STROINK « » : It gives me great honour to stand here today to acknowledge someone who's very important to me on her success this coming year. My daughter, Anneke Lucienne Stroink is graduating from Grade 6 from Le Marchant-St. Thomas. For her this is a huge accomplishment, and I'm so proud to be her dad to see this accomplishment occur. As parents, it's hard to see our kids grow and move on, but I can tell you I cannot be more proud of my daughter and her successes in graduating from Grade 6. Congratulations to Anneke Lucienne.

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

HENRICH, SYDNEY/HANTS EAST RHS - DANCE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : Sydney Henrich and the student council of Hants East Rural High organized and held a successful fundraising event, Dance for Mental Health, in February. Teams of six to 10 fundraised to participate in the event. The first of its kind in the school, the dance-a-thon resembled a relay in the sense that one member of the team must be dancing at all times. The event ran from 6:30 p.m. in the evening to midnight, was held in the cafeteria of the school, and was open to the public for a $1 donation. All of the funds, $3,000 in total, went to the Canadian Mental Health Association, a cause close to home at Hants East Rural High, as more students are becoming open about mental health issues. The event aimed to recognize the importance of mental health awareness and to show that the student council is there to support students. Our Hants East Rural High has a reputation for giving back and what a great example this is.

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

ANGELO: SURGERY - PRAYERS

[Page 9895]

HON. LENA DIAB « » : One of our community angels is undergoing an emergency operation. I ask all members of this House of Assembly to pray that God's mercy be with Angelo and bless and heal the little body of this three-year-old angel and that the Lord strengthen his family and be with them during this difficult time. As we celebrate this weekend the Feast of St. Rita, the patron of impossible cases, I ask the blessed saint for help. We pray that she turn her merciful eyes on Angelo and come to his aid and bless the doctors so they successfully remove the cancer in his tiny kidney. Lord hear our prayers.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Sydney-Whitney Pier.

CHERNIN, MARTY: CBU - HON. DEGREE

MR. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : I rise, I believe on behalf of all Cape Breton MLAs, to congratulate Marty Chernin of Sydney, who this past weekend was the recipient of an honorary doctorate from Cape Breton University. Born during the Second World War to a family of grocers and wholesalers, Chernin's efforts to modernize Cape Breton's communications infrastructure and communication real estate have played a very significant part in our community, along with a number of other development corporations. He is a true community leader - he has been already inducted into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame back in 2008, and he was a recipient of the Order of Canada in 2015.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my colleagues from Cape Breton, we would like to congratulate Dr. Chernin and thank him for all his commitment to the development of Cape Breton, to all the many organizations that he supports, and to congratulate him and his family on his honorary doctorate from Cape Breton University.

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

BRIDGEWATER ELEM. SCH.:

HERITAGE FAIR PROJECTS - CONGRATS.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I had the pleasure of judging this year's Heritage Fair projects at Bridgewater Elementary School. I have to say, it was an incredibly difficult job. I was so impressed with the effort and time that each student put into their project, and it was extremely difficult to pick individual projects to advance to the regional competition.

A big thanks and congratulations should be extended to Tony Eisner, a teacher at Bridgewater Elementary School who has organized the fair for the last number of years. The time and energy Mr. Eisnor has put into the fair has been of great benefit to all involved.

I would like to congratulate all the students for putting together some amazing projects and to Tony Eisner for his ongoing commitment and dedication to the best interests and education of our youth.

[Page 9896]

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

MCLOBSTER - BIRTHDAY (25^th)

MR. TERRY FARRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about the McLobster sandwich. There is no surer sign of summer than the McLobster sandwich's glorious return.

The McLobster has been around for 25 years, and it originated in Amherst. It all started in 1989 when franchise owner Gerry Moore took some advice from local customers. A few months later, the team brought their lobster roll creation to the bosses in Toronto. After a rigorous and lengthy approval process, the McLobster was finally born in the summer of 1991.

The McLobster is iconic of Nova Scotia, and it is famous across Canada. Please join me as we celebrate the McLobster's 25^th birthday and the hard work of local franchisee, Gerry Moore. Thank you.

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

HFX. WEST HS - HEAD FOR A CURE (2016) EVENT

MS. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize students and staff at Halifax West High School for their successful 2016 Head for a Cure event and year-long fundraising campaign.

Head for Care provides participants with the opportunity to shave their heads in support of cancer research initiatives, as well as listen to inspiring keynote addresses from politicians, activists, and cancer survivors. Over the past 13 years, Head for a Cure has collectively raised over $100,000 for cancer research through the shared actions of students, staff, administrators, and community members who are committed to discovering a cure for the disease.

I wish to recognize the generous, dedicated students and staff of Halifax West High School who have been an inspiration to many Nova Scotians.

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

MULGRAVE RD. - THE WEST WOODS: PROD. - SUCCESS WISH

[Page 9897]

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to put a much-deserved spotlight on the Mulgrave Road Theatre, whose roots in Nova Scotia extend back to 1977. It was a group of energetic young artists and playwrights who founded the company in historic Guysborough County.

From its earliest beginning, the company's vision has been to create, develop, and produce theatre inspired by the Nova Scotia experience. From small beginnings in eastern Nova Scotia, the company and its extended family of artists have made an enormous contribution to the growth of Canadian theatre.

Most recently, the company has launched a production of The West Woods, written by Tara Reddick. Set in 1968, The West Woods is a new play inspired by a rural black community in Guysborough County during a time of social change and upheaval.

I would like to wish the Mulgrave Road Theatre great success in their latest production and continued growth in all future endeavours. Thank you.

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

PRESCRIPTION DRUG DROP-OFF DAY - AWARENESS

MR. BEN JESSOME « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge that tomorrow, May 21^st, is Canada's fourth annual Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day. The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, together with Health Canada, Public Safety Canada, Partnership for a Drug Free Canada, the Canadian Pharmacists Association, the Canadian Medical Association, and the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse are leading this important initiative.

On Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day, police agencies across the country will host events in their community with their partners to provide an easy way for people to dispose of unused and expired prescription drugs. As many prescription drugs with a high potential for misuse come from medicine cabinets of friends and families, the proper medical storage of these drugs can effectively reduce risks and prevent harm.

Please join me as we bring awareness to this important issue and important event tomorrow. Thank you.

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

JOHNSON, KEVIN: HEROISM - CONGRATS.

[Page 9898]

MS. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, there are many ways to define a hero. Whatever your definition is, Kevin Johnson fits the bill. Kevin, who resides in the Lunenburg constituency, was recognized in a small ceremony here at Province House with the Heroism Award by the Justice Minister. In 2009 he risked his life in a wildfire where he saved the lives of eight people.

During his rescue attempts he found himself trapped inside the fire but he didn't give up, instead, returning time and again because more people were trapped in the flames. As a result of his heroics, Kevin struggles daily, both with his physical recovery and a daily struggle with PTSD. Despite this, he said he would do it all over again, that's a true hero.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that all members of the House join me in congratulating Kevin Johnson for his selfless act of heroics.

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

ESKASONI: COMMUN. WALK AGAINST SEXUAL ASSAULT - COMMEND

MS. PAM EYKING « » : Mr. Speaker, for too long the issue of sexual assault against First Nations women has gone unaddressed across Canada. I'd like to bring to the attention of the House an event in my riding, with the hope that we can help raise awareness and change this. The First Nations women of Eskasoni have had enough and are taking a stand against this often unreported but devastating crime.

This May 29^th, a community walk organized by Jasine and Karen Bernard will be held to raise awareness and give voice to the victims who for far too long have felt they have been left behind.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask all the members of this House of Assembly to join me in commending these brave women for taking a stand against sexual violence in not only their community but communities elsewhere.

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

GOV'T. (N.S.): NEWCOMERS - SUPPORT (DETAILS)

MR. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, today I would like to rise and talk about how this government is supporting newcomers to our province. On Monday this week the YMCA of greater Halifax-Dartmouth received $290,000 increase in funding from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration to support newcomers who settle in Nova Scotian communities. The YMCA is expanding its Y-REACH (Recognizing Enhancing Aligning Community Horizons) program to Kentville and one other community. This funding will increase the number of settlement workers province wide, as well as provide supports for a new full-time manager of child and youth service programming and to help provide the much-needed assistance to Nova Scotian newcomers in the Valley.

[Page 9899]

We have eight organizations in Kings County alone hosting new refugee families and this support will be greatly appreciated. Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotians are a welcoming people and this funding will help people in the Annapolis Valley to provide supports and assistance to our new Nova Scotians.

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

SACKVILLE RIVERS ASSOC. - DUCK RACE (4^th ANL.)

MR. STEPHEN GOUGH « » : Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, May 3^rd, the Sackville Rivers Association held its fourth annual Duck Race. This provided a well-supported fun day within the community. Since its inception in 2013, this event has grown substantially, as was evidenced by the large number of ducks that contended for first place in several categories.

Proceeds of the event will be divided among the Acadian Recreation Club, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Halifax, and the Sackville Rivers Association. Congratulations to the Sackville Rivers Association on their growing success of this event and also on the many contributions made to the community.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

STEPHENS, KIMBERLY - HABITAT FOR HUMANITY:

TWO-YEAR TERM - THANK

MS. JOYCE TREEN « » : Mr. Speaker, Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia has announced that Kimberly Stephens has stepped down as board chair and I would like to offer her my sincere congratulations on a successful two-year term. Ms. Stephens will remain as past chair.

Stepping in as board chair is Bill MacAvoy who brings a unique combination of experience, being well-seasoned in both the non-profit sector as well as real estate - a combination well-suited to the mandate and need of Habitat for Humanity.

Congratulations, Bill MacAvoy, we wish you every success in attaining your goals and those of Habitat for Humanity of providing 20 family homes a year by 2020.

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

NAT. RES. - GRADE 4s OUTDOORS PROG.

[Page 9900]

MR. BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to talk about the Grade 4s Outdoors program being offered through the Department of Natural Resources and sponsored by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

Mr. Speaker, 9,500 Grade 4 students in the province will be provided with a package containing a provincial parks passport and a campsite coupon for two free nights at any provincial camping park. These coupons will be distributed in early June at the schools and can be used anytime during the 2016 camping season, up to October 8, 2016.

This program is designed to help bring the provincial parks to the next generation. It's an exciting and innovative way for each Grade 4 student and their families to grow the interest in camping in the generation of Nova Scotians. This will help the children of Nova Scotia learn about nature and about the joys of camping, and also help them learn about themselves.

The park system in Nova Scotia is a beautiful gift for all Nova Scotians. Summer is just around the corner, and I want to encourage Nova Scotians to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of this fantastic province.

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

CDN. RVING & CAMPING WK. (05/24 - 05/29/16) - RECOGNIZE

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : I rise today to recognize Canadian RVing and Camping Week, which runs from May 24^th to the 29^th. Camping and RVing is a great way for Canadians of all ages to get outside and enjoy our beautiful scenery and Nova Scotia's rich and diverse landscape. Camping is an affordable family activity that promotes a sense of community, creates lifelong memories, and promotes a healthy, active lifestyle.

Camping also encourages visitors from across Canada and internationally to come explore Nova Scotia. This year the Canadian Camping and RVing Council has partnered with Make-A-Wish Canada to raise funds for children facing life-threatening illnesses, and they are encouraging all campers to participate by purchasing a Wish lantern at participating Canadian campgrounds, with all proceeds benefiting Make-A-Wish Canada.

Please join us as we get ready to kick off the 2016 camping season and celebrate Canadian RVing and Camping Week.

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

BRIDGEWATER HS SAFE GRAD HOCKEY GAME:

[Page 9901]

ORGANIZERS - THANK

HON. MARK FUREY « » : I was pleased to participate in the Bridgewater High School Safe Grad hockey game on April 29^th at the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre. Mentors versus Students took to the ice in a friendly game that raised $2,500 for this year's Safe Grad activities. The organizers and parents were busy organizing a number of events such as Chuck-a-Puck, a turkey toss, and a shooting competition.

Although the purpose of the hockey game was a fundraiser for Safe Grad, it became a community event as well, with community leaders, local business people, and alumni offering sponsorship, attending or playing in the game itself. It should serve to show this year's graduates that they have the support of their community behind them.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the organizers for including me in the game and for your efforts to make this such a success. For the record, Mr. Speaker, the mentors won 7-6.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Barring any more Statements by Members, the House will now recess until 10:00 a.m.

[9:58 a.m. The House recessed.]

[10:00 a.m. The House reconvened.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: CARE BY DESIGN PROG. - IMPLEMENTATION

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. A physician who cares deeply about the elderly in Cape Breton put forward a proposal that would see the medical needs of patients in nursing homes met faster while saving money.

The Care by Design Program envisioned a doctor on call at a long-term care facility for a week so the elderly in nursing homes in Sydney wouldn't be forced to go to the ER for minor issues. The doctors and nursing homes were onboard, funding for the program was found locally, it was taken to the Zone Medical Advisory Committee - and I'll table the document on that - and they signed-off on it unanimously. But when it went to the Nova Scotia Health Authority, Lynne Harrigan said no. Despite being a local solution with buy-in from the community, it was axed by a bureaucrat in Halifax.

[Page 9902]

My question to the minister, how is it that a VP in Halifax has more foresight and knowledge than doctors and the Zone Medical Advisory Committee? Why aren't local solutions being heard and implemented?

HON. LEO GLAVINE » : Where that was running into conflict was with one of the areas where we have seen considerable change in the past couple of years and that is permitting paramedics to go into nursing homes and work with a patient who may need to be stabilized and can actually sign off and have the patient remain there, which again is avoiding trips to the ER. We're seeing this protocol now develop across the province.

MR. D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, it's a strange decision by the Nova Scotia Health Authority because Care by Design was implemented in the former Capital Health District in 2010 and later in the Colchester-East Hants area. The Care by Design model is currently used to provide care for 40 per cent of the province's nursing home patients. Transfers from nursing homes to ERs were reduced by 46 per cent here in Halifax and in Truro it was reduced by 60 per cent. Yet for some unknown reason in Cape Breton they weren't allowed to benefit from the program.

My question to the minister, why was a sound program like that - why is it working in Halifax, why is it being rejected in Cape Breton? Why aren't local solutions being heard and implemented?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I will look into the actual case that the member has brought forward here today. One of the developments in our province is that we want all of our health care providers to be able to work to the full scope of practice. Now we have our paramedics going into nursing homes on a regular basis, providing care right there, on site, and avoiding trips to the ER. They are able to provide medications and other care that they may need.

That's a good day for our province, Mr. Speaker, when we can have paramedics doing their job.

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

PREM. - PERSONAL INCOME TAX RAISE: INCOME INEQUALITY - EFFECT

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, it's difficult to understand the Premier's argument that the best way to address income inequality is through basic personal tax exemptions. If the basic exemption was raised, those currently earning less than the basic exemption would receive no benefit. Further, it would have only a marginal effect on those in the lowest bracket, while those in the highest bracket would benefit much more.

[Page 9903]

I ask the Premier, can he explain how raising the personal tax exemption will help address income inequality in Nova Scotia?

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. If she had actually listened to the answer that I gave, what I said is that I believe the basic personal exemption should be on a sliding scale. I don't believe anyone in this House should have their basic personal exemption raised, I think it should stay where it is but there are those low-income Nova Scotians who we should support by increasing their basic personal exemption.

We're looking at that to make sure that those who need our support will get it. As with every decision that this government makes, it is how it is impacting Nova Scotians and we're going to continue to be focused in moving this province forward.

MS. MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, the Premier has one talking point on income inequality and I don't think economists or Nova Scotians are buying it. Raising the basic personal tax exemption will not address the growing gap between rich and poor in this province where the top 1 per cent makes 10.5 times more than the bottom 90 per cent.

Mr. Speaker, we know that raising the basic exemption is not the answer to this issue so I ask the Premier, what other solutions does the government have for addressing income inequality?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to again tell the honourable member leaving more money in the pockets of Nova Scotians, low income Nova Scotians, through the basic person exemption, leaves more buying power for them, would not be eaten up in inflation over the next number of years under their program, quite frankly.

We're going to continue. We've had the largest single increase in income assistance in any government in our history, in this particular budget. We've invested in Graduate to Opportunity, which is providing people from an educational institution a career, a job opportunity, providing every Nova Scotian with a chance to get their first start here at home. We've announced in this budget an investment in public education to continue to make sure that every young Nova Scotian gets the right start they deserve. Instead of cutting $65 million out of education like that government did, we've invested in it. We've targeted towards literacy and numeracy. We've announced in this budget work towards increasing child care, making sure that the men and women who look after our children are being remunerated properly. We're going to continue to invest, Mr. Speaker, to ensure that every Nova Scotian sees themselves in the institution of government.

MS. MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker, this government just doesn't seem to get it. For two and a half years the government has pursued policies that have exacerbated income inequality in Nova Scotia. They've made cuts to organizations and not-for-profits that help to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. This government has frozen social assistance rates for two years, and when they finally raised it by $20, they think they should be thanked for that, and moved on to congratulate themselves for it, a low point in this sitting I might add.

[Page 9904]

So, I ask the Premier, why is this government compounding the problem of income inequality in Nova Scotia?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I completely disagree with the premise of her question. We continue to work with our partners across this province to deal with the many challenges that have been faced in this province for generations that were ignored by the previous government. At no time, Mr. Speaker, at no time will this government need to take a lesson from a Party that sat and was paralyzed by the opportunity to govern this province, and continued to fall our province further, and further behind, Mr. Speaker. One-time experiment with that Party, Nova Scotians gave them the . . .

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order please. The honourable Premier has the floor.

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member, who keeps yelling across recognizing, Mr. Speaker, that Nova Scotians are understanding that we are a government focused on the people of this province, ensuring that we're fair to every Nova Scotian.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition, with two supplementaries.

PREM. - WALK-IN CLINICS: PHYSICIAN BAN - REVERSE

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, this government is restricting the ability of new doctors to practise at walk-in clinics. Their policy is very clear, it reads "requests for new physicians to work in walk-in clinics will most likely be denied." Well, Mr. Speaker, those walk-in clinics provide a very important service particularly to Nova Scotia families that do not have a family doctor. This is a bad policy; it is a bad decision that will hurt people who need access to doctors.

I'd like to ask the Premier, will he reverse the ban on new doctors practising at walk-in clinics?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, like oftentimes in this House, the honourable member is simply wrong.

MR. BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, what is wrong is a Premier that does not see 90,000 people without a doctor, promising them that they'd all have one, and then making things worse, because when they go to a walk-in clinic because they don't have a doctor, he tells them that no new doctors are allowed to go there either. That's what is wrong. It's not wrong here on the floor of this House; it's wrong out there where people need help, and they're being told no by this Premier.

[Page 9905]

Mr. Speaker, 90,000 people with no doctor. They go to walk-in clinics. Even the Health Authority spokesperson said walk-in clinics are important for people that now need a doctor, so we won't restrict the ban. Will he explain to this House why he is restricting access to doctors at walk-in clinics when the need is so great?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. In his preamble, he identified that 90 per cent of Nova Scotians, 900,000 have access to a family physician. That's above the national average of any province. We're going to continue to work with our partners the Health Authority…

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order please. The honourable Premier has the floor.

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, we have 31 physicians that came in the province, there are 14 more ready to go. We're going to continue to work with our partners across the province. At no time did we say that there wouldn't be able to be walk-in clinics. We're going to continue to provide those services. The honourable members can still shout across if they like, but the reality of it is, we're achieving outcomes for Nova Scotians, we're on our way to ensuring that every Nova Scotian has access to a family physician - and the numbers speak for themselves.

MR. BAILLIE « » : We will come to this House and shout every day until that Premier keeps his promise that every single Nova Scotian would have a family doctor. He may be satisfied that 90,000 go without, that 10 per cent go without, but we're not satisfied. It was his promise to ensure that every Nova Scotian have a family doctor. They are making things worse.

Will the Premier explain to this House how limiting new doctors at walk-in clinics helps keep his promise?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. Again, the entire premise of his question is wrong. Again, I want to tell the honourable member, we had 31 new doctors come this year; we have 14 more to come that we know of. The Minister of Health and Wellness is working with our partners and continuing to move forward. We've seen (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Premier has the floor.

THE PREMIER « » : The honourable member keeps auditioning. He has an opinion about everything in this province. At some point, I hope he stands up and is held accountable for what he thinks about municipal amalgamation. Perhaps the honourable member might want to do his job and stand with the municipal leaders in his riding for transformational change.

[Page 9906]

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

JUSTICE - AFRICAN NOVA SCOTIANS: JAILS

- OVERREPRESENTATION

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : African Nova Scotians comprise about 2 per cent of the provincial population, however represent a much greater proportion of those admitted to correctional facilities. Fourteen per cent of all adults in provincial custody are African Nova Scotians, and 16 per cent of all youth in provincial custody are African Nova Scotians - and I will table those figures. These are numbers that just came into our office, and I have to admit they are very troubling.

I would like to direct my question to the Minister of Justice, how can the minister explain the over-representation of African Nova Scotians in our jails?

HON. DIANA WHALEN « » : I want to thank the member opposite for raising this question, because I think it's a societal issue that we all need to be aware of, and I think raising it here in the House helps to bring our attention to it and to look for answers.

The fact is the justice system is the final part of a path that is probably characterized by lack of opportunity, illiteracy, a lack of education or early childhood education. We're addressing those issues today by investments in education, by making early childhood education more available, by doing other programming in communities such as CeaseFire, hub communities and so on. But I recognize the problem, and I certainly would welcome other answers from the Opposition as well as the work that we're undertaking.

MS. MANCINI « » : I thank the minister for her response. Close to 20 per cent of all youth in custody in Nova Scotia are African Nova Scotians, despite making up less than 2 per cent of our total population. I do not think anyone would find these numbers acceptable. All youth in Nova Scotia deserve equal opportunities to succeed. Looking at these numbers shows us that something is clearly wrong.

I would ask the minister, could she detail specific actions her department could take to address this disturbing trend of over-representation of African Nova Scotian youth?

MS. WHALEN « » : I know that the member opposite would recognize that this is a very complex issue, one that has deep societal background and history, one that, as I mentioned in my first answer, is really the result of so many other factors. Justice is the final part - when people come into contact or conflict with the law, that's after many other societal issues that need to be addressed before that.

[Page 9907]

What are we doing? We're doing restorative approaches in schools - 150 schools in the province have that in place, teaching young people to resolve conflict, to deal with anger, and to deal with their peers and others. I think that has tremendous opportunity for the future. There are other programs as well I'd be happy to talk to the member about later.

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

PREM. - YAR. FERRY: PASSENGER COUNTS - RELEASE

HON. JAMIE BAILLIE « » : Mr. Speaker, yesterday we learned that neither Bay Ferries nor the government will be releasing passenger counts as the sailing season for the new Yarmouth ferry goes on. That is unfair to the taxpayers who are footing the bill. They should at least get reports on how the boat is doing. This is a bad deal that the Premier has signed for taxpayers, and it keeps getting worse as the details come out.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Premier, will he commit today to reporting monthly on passenger counts for the Yarmouth ferry in the upcoming season?

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. I want to thank the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal for the work he has been doing, along with Bay Ferries. We're looking forward to building on the great tourism season that we had last year, and this vessel will be part of that. Businesses across this province will be counting the people on that boat, because they'll see their numbers increasing.

MR. BAILLIE « » : I guess we're all supposed to go down to Yarmouth and count the cars ourselves, Mr. Speaker. Well, that is not good enough. This is already a deal where the company gets a guaranteed profit that the Premier is keeping secret and the taxpayers pay all the losses. They are rebuilding the terminal in Portland, Maine; they are painting travel lines in the lead-up to the terminal in Portland, Maine. They at least deserve to know whether this is a success or not. They deserve to know every month how many passengers are actually coming on the Yarmouth ferry. It's a simple matter of public accountability.

I'd like to ask the Premier, how can he possibly justify keeping Nova Scotia taxpayers in the dark about the passenger counts on the Yarmouth ferry?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, the honourable member knows that is not the case. I'm sure Bay Ferries will be reporting to the province. I know the minister at some point during this started to give people an update.

There's one thing for certain: not a single Nova Scotian would ever ask the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party to go down and count cars coming off that ferry. We want our visitors to be optimistic when they come into this province, not pessimistic like the honourable Leader.

[Page 9908]

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: LYME DISEASE

- DIAGNOSIS & TESTING METHODS

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : My question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. To this day people are forced to leave the province to seek treatment for Lyme disease because the diagnosis is not always readily available here in the province. According to the CDC, Lyme disease is the number one vector-borne disease and tick disease. People are increasingly aware of the risks and are going to greater lengths to protect themselves, but the health care system is not keeping pace. Accepted diagnosis is changing and concerns are being raised about the testing mechanisms used here in the province.

I'd like to ask the minister today, what is this government doing to make sure that we are using up-to-date diagnosis and testing methods right here in Nova Scotia?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I thank the member opposite for raising the question. It's not a day to go into the long history of how we have improved our professionals on the ground, our MDs now with diagnosis. We know that all across Nova Scotia, anywhere and everywhere, we can have ticks that can spread Lyme disease.

What I now see emerging is, across not just Canada but the United States, we will have one protocol. It may be just a matter of weeks before that will be made available to all Canadians.

MR. HOUSTON « » : I want to make sure that the province is using the most up-to-date diagnosis guidelines and that the testing that is being done in the labs here is according to the accepted procedure. I think I just heard the minister say that he is looking at that and he'll be able to confirm that within a couple of weeks.

Could I maybe get a bit of clarification on what steps the minister is taking to make sure that we are using the most up-to-date diagnosis guidelines and what we're doing to review the testing procedures in our labs?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, Dr. Hatchette was at the national conference held just in the past week, and his lab is currently doing testing. As soon as the new guidelines are brought forward, Nova Scotia will be in compliance with the best diagnostic protocols that will be common across North America.

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

[Page 9909]

LAE: FIRST RESPONDERS - WCB COVERAGE

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, in 2015, 39 first responders and 12 military members committed suicide across the country. In five short months, 18 first responders and 12 military members have committed suicide. Over two years ago this government committed to striking an all-Party committee to examine ways to support first responders with PTSD.

Since it looks like the government is not going in this direction, or going to do this, I'd like to ask the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education, will the minister commit to bringing forward presumptive WCB coverage for first responders in Nova Scotia?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. We do know that folks living with PTSD do have a difficult time and that is why in 2014 I did ask the Workers' Compensation Board to begin tracking the number of first responders who do make claims under WCB. As the member knows, we did meet on this particular issue. I indicated to him at that time that we were going to start tracking those numbers.

What we do see in fact, Mr. Speaker, is that most PTSD claimants are dealt with in a positive way and we have actually taken some steps to make sure that people understand what the rules are around PTSD claims for WCB, so that people understand that contrary to what has been out there in the public, our first responders can receive coverage for multiple incidents, and contrary to what some members have been saying, the diagnosis does not have to come within the first incident.

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : Well, what should concern Nova Scotians, Mr. Speaker, is what the minister said most. The Minister of Labour and Advanced Education will say, and she has indicated, that people are eligible for help within a year of being diagnosed, but quite frankly, Mr. Speaker, that's not the issue. Presumptive legislation means that first responders get the support they need sooner rather than later. B.C., Alberta, Manitoba, already support first responders in this way, and New Brunswick and Ontario are currently in the process of doing the same. Nova Scotia now falls behind the rest of the country.

I continue to be met with delays in addressing this serious issue so I would like to ask the Premier, given that provinces across Canada are recognizing the need for automatic PTSD coverage for first responders, does the Premier agree that the time has come for Nova Scotia to do the same?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. My commitment to the member, former minister, is that I will work with my Minister of Labour and Advanced Education to look at this issue, both internally and how it's being dealt with nationally, and I will get back to him with the appropriate response.

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

[Page 9910]

LAE: MSVU WELLNESS AGREEMENT - UPDATE REVIEW

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. A couple of days ago we learned that a young man attending Mount Saint Vincent University was forbidden from talking openly about his mental health issues because of a Confidential Wellness Agreement. The agreement says that the student will not discuss or engage in conversations with resident students regarding personal issues, namely the student's self-destructive thoughts.

This policy does nothing to end the stigma associated with mental illness and may prevent students from coming forward to receive help. Will the minister review the updated language in the Mount's wellness agreement, to ensure it promotes healthy dialogue, end stigma, and help students to get the help they need?

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member and I think we both share a desire to make sure that students feel safe and well-supported on campus. I do want to assure her that the Mount is an independent, board-governed institution, none the less we reached out to the Mount to find out more information about that. They have agreed to look at that policy, Mr. Speaker. They understand that the intention of the policy was in fact, poorly communicated, and I expect to see changes, yes.

MS. MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I'll thank the minister for her answers. The penalty for not following the rule set out in the wellness agreement is the termination of the student's lease. The student in question said he felt he had no choice but to adhere to their agreement so he could continue to live on campus, and this is very sad, Mr. Speaker. The agreement was absolutely inappropriate and it totally negates the efforts that we're all trying to help in promoting awareness and to remove the stigma around mental health.

My question is, will the minister ensure that no other universities have these sorts of agreements to silence students with mental health issues?

MS. REGAN « » : I want to thank the honourable member for the question. We understand that the language in question in this particular case is a rarely-used provision, and that its purpose was to send the student in the right direction for help in times of extreme crisis. I want to be clear on that for the honourable member.

We are just about to sign our MOU, which does include a portion on methods for student success, including mental health. I do want to assure her that we are working on that with our universities.

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

TIR: KENTVILLE/CORNWALLIS RIVER BRIDGE - CONST. PROGRESS

[Page 9911]

MR. JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. The Kentville bridge over the Cornwallis River is 85 years old and has had weight restrictions on it now for more than a decade. It is an important bridge in our area and is especially well used by emergency services.

Last year, the minister committed to replacing the bridge this year; I will table that. My question for the minister is, can the minister update the House on the progress on the construction plans and the expected completion date of the Kentville bridge?

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. The tender for the bridge is basically ready to go. We're just finalizing some details with the municipality on the overall agreement. We expect that without question the work will begin this year. We fully anticipate that we'll get it fully completed in this year's construction season. That's the plan; that's the goal. We hope we can stay there.

So barring any major catastrophes or anything that changes the schedule, we should be all clear and done with the new bridge in 2016.

MR. LOHR « » : I'd like to thank the minister for that answer. I know that the construction of the bridge will at some point bring the minister to Kings North. I would like to ask the minister if he would commit to travelling with me to look at a couple of other roads in Kings North when he is in Kings North?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : If I said no, Mr. Speaker, I'd end up in his newsletter and on the website, so of course the answer is yes. I'll see you there.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

EECD: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUC. - FUNDING

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question today is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. In Budget Estimates, I asked many questions about how investments in early childhood education will be rolled out. The minister's response was that her department didn't know what the needs are within the sector and didn't have the data to know what the actual costs would be - this in spite of having just conducted a review, which included interviews with key parties and a survey that was completed by more than 7,000 Nova Scotians.

My question for the minister is, could she please explain today how it is possible that, even after doing this review, the implementation piece seems to still be missing?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, perhaps we should first correct a statement - I certainly did not say that I did not know the needs of the child care sector. We spent extensive time consulting, received the recommendations, and spoke to those recommendations. The implementation plan is something that, as I said at that time, will be laid out and will be shared, but we will share that with the stakeholders first.

[Page 9912]

I anticipate that will be next week, but we will not do that without all the stakeholders having been fully engaged.

MS. ZANN « » : During Budget Estimates, I had the opportunity to take a very good look at the budget of Early Childhood Development over the past few years, and a few figures jumped out at me. For one thing, there appears to be a transfer of funds - millions, in fact - from the Department of Community Services to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development for the entire Early Years division. That appeared to be around $44 million.

My question for the minister is, does the $65 million figure that she continues to say she is putting back into the Education and Early Childhood Development Department include the amount transferred from the Department of Community Services?

MS. CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, I think we need to talk about what figures jump out, because when you look at the investment that that government made in Early Years, it declined by $6 million. They gouged that out of Early Years while they were there, and we are putting that back.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: NURSING HOME PLACEMENTS

- REQUIREMENTS CHANGE

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : My question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. (Interruption) Strange, I know.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg has the floor.

MR. MACLEOD « » : After contributing their whole life, seniors deserve to be treated with compassion and dignity, when they can no longer care for themselves. Under this government, seniors waiting for a placement are being forced to accept a spot anywhere in the province. If they don't accept, they are taken off the list - not put on the bottom of the list but completely off the list for three months. Plus they are only given 24 hours to decide. They cannot defer; they have to make a decision.

My question to the minister is quite simple. Will the minister change the requirement that a senior must decide to take the first available bed in 24 hours or be removed from that waiting list?

[Page 9913]

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : I am pleased to say that we've made great strides with connecting seniors in hospitals to nursing homes and to home care. Many of the people on the list, the 1,000 that we've reduced the list by, many had never even been asked about home care as a first option. I'm pleased to say that many receive home care. If they're off the list, they can get back on the list. I'm pleased to report to the House and all Nova Scotians that we've had examples where a person was not ready to go into a nursing home but had some kind of a health trauma three or four weeks after declining to go in a nursing home, went to hospital, and immediately got them in a nursing home.

MR. MACLEOD « » : It has been a trend of the minister to avoid answering questions. I know this is called Question Period not Answer Period, but I can't for the life of me understand why he can't just say yes he'll look at it or no he won't.

Mr. Speaker, we've heard a lot of heart-wrenching stories about situations where husbands and wives are separated in different nursing homes. Local doctors tell us that it is not necessary, and if officials would simply have a conversation with the families and residents, people would move to accommodate them. After all, this is Nova Scotia. It doesn't cost anything to ask. But the Health Authority will not do that.

Will the minister ensure that compassion and common sense prevail to keep couples who need long-term care are together whenever possible?

MR. GLAVINE « » : I'm pleased to say that both points that the member has raised today are being addressed in the next continuing care strategy, which will be out in early 2017. I'm pleased to say that through intervention, just in this past year, three couples who were in different nursing homes were united, even if they were requiring different levels of care.

I can say to the member and to all Nova Scotians that this will become the policy of the future. Couples will not be separated.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: RECORDS RETRIEVAL - FEES

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : My question is to the Minister of Health and Wellness. Many of my constituents are without a doctor due to the sad and untimely death of their doctor. These constituents have been told this week that in order to get their medical records, they must pay a company in Ontario, and the fees start at $87. In fact, I had a friend yesterday pay up to $200 to retrieve her file. My question to the minister is, does he agree or disagree that this process to retrieve personal medical files is fair?

[Page 9914]

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Just in the past two weeks, this question was also asked by the honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid. I have asked Dr. Gus Grant to look into this issue. We know that we have patients who don't have the means to pay that kind of money to retrieve their records. I believe it's an area that we have to work on. Again, it is one that through Doctors Nova Scotia and the college, we can make some progress.

MS. MCFARLANE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for his answers. However, this fee represents a financial hardship for many especially during these difficult economic times. The constituents are already at a disadvantage by not having a family doctor now, and now they cannot even retrieve their medical records without having to pay a large fee.

Some of these individuals have to now pay for transportation to even get to emergency in New Glasgow, so will the minister ensure that those that have paid out fees this week will be reimbursed?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, we all know that doctors are part of keeping the records, having them go into storage. I believe it is a good area to examine and especially when this does come along, but I am really pleased to say today to the House and to all Nova Scotians is that we have made great progress, and during this year we will see Nova Scotians finally have an answer to this question because a personal electronic health record will be available to them.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS:

COLLABORATIVE EMERGENCY CENTRES - OPENINGS UPDATE

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, we have heard countless times from the Minister of Health and Wellness that one of his main priorities is enhancing and expanding collaborative health care services in Nova Scotia. Luckily, luckily, for the minister there is already a solid foundation laid for this work to move forward. They could continue on the work that has been done in the past - even though they did not think about it first or thought of it first. It just seems that the minister is comfortable with starting from square one.

So I would like to ask the minister, can the minister tell us how many new Collaborative Emergency Centres have been opened under his leadership and this government?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, maybe if the member opposite would agree with me to remove the word "emergency," we would make a lot more progress with community care centres across Nova Scotia.

MR. WILSON « » : Well, Mr. Speaker, I will not, because the last time I checked paramedics deliver and provide emergency care - I don't know if he wants to change that profession or not - so I will not agree with the minister.

[Page 9915]

The Care Right Now report clearly tells us that these sites are working to address chronic, unplanned ER closures like the ones documented by my friend, the member for Queens-Shelburne and have resulted in a significant drop in unplanned ER closures. All this the minister himself has stated in the communities that have CECs, there was full confirmation on how well it has been working.

So I would like to ask the minister, could the minister and the government please just put their egos aside, accept the fact that CECs have improved the system, and open more CECs across Nova Scotia?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I know that CECs have in fact been a wonderful solution for our GPs who were trying to manage their practice as well as cover emergency rooms. It is indeed a better way of providing health to communities. During the health services review, the current clinics and future CECs are part of that review, and I am looking forward to a final determination on the communities that are on the list as to what will happen in those areas.

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS: DOCTOR SHORTAGE - MIN. ADMIT

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. In addition to the question from the member for Pictou West, I had couples in my Pictou Centre office here just this week who were upset over the amount of money that they have to pay to get their personal records. My understanding is one couple said they had to pay $170 each to acquire them.

Nevertheless, we cannot deny that there is a shortage of doctors in this province. Four calls were received through my Pictou Centre office yesterday from residents needing a doctor; these residents were also complaining about the long hours they have to wait for assistance as a result of not having a doctor.

So, keeping in mind that four calls were received yesterday, will the minister finally admit that we have a shortage of doctors in rural Nova Scotia?

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I know that Pictou is one of the areas that is being now addressed. I think he heard Dr. Lynne Harrigan say that we do have a number of hotspots across the province, and those are the areas that are currently getting the most attention. I know, through the work of Dr. Bill Lowe, I see progress being made and we hope to have a solution there in the relatively near future.

MR. DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, we've been experiencing an increase with the residents visiting our office relating the problems that they're having renewing prescriptions; in particular, narcotics. Unable to find a doctor to sign the necessary papers. These people are suffering and need immediate assistance. We also have seniors waiting in a lineup for one to three hours before the clinic doors open. In fact, yesterday a couple in the lineup had to go back to their car and wait until someone saved a space for them at the door when the door opened.

[Page 9916]

My question to the minister is, is it our expectation that seniors have to wait for a few hours in a lineup to see a doctor, or to get the necessary documentation to purchase their drugs?

MR. GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, this is one of the four or five areas now across the province that is receiving the most attention. We also know that considerable recruitment has been carried out, and we'll see here, in the very near future, where some of those recruitments will actually start a practice, develop into a collaborative practice, and I'm looking forward to the Nova Scotia Health Authority in a very, very short time, they will have a few wonderful announcements coming to those areas.

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

TIR - TWINNING STUDY: FIN. MODELLING - COMPLETION CONFIRM

HON. ALFIE MACLEOD « » : Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

Mr. Speaker, in the past I've asked the minister about the status of the twinning study at consultations. It's a study which costs almost $900,000 and it was to be completed by the beginning of the month, and the minister indicated that the financial modelling was still being worked on, and he also indicated that consultations were to begin around the middle of May.

So my question to the minister is, has the financial modelling been completed, and when will the consultations begin?

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. We're still in draft form of the financial modelling piece. There has been a number of questions and clarifications happening and going back and forth between the senior members of our department staff and the consultants. Obviously, for us with the nature and with the level of importance for this conversation for all Nova Scotians, we just want to make sure that the information is correct and accurate, and easy to articulate to Nova Scotians so that everyone has an understanding of exactly what the decisions are, and what we're going to do moving forward, and that we finally get a clear answer on where Nova Scotians are with respect to how we twin our highways moving forward.

So, we are still working at that. As I said to the member many times during Question Period and estimates, once that information is compiled then we'll look to do that public consultation. We're still committed to doing that as soon as we possibly can, and once we know that we'll communicate it to the member. Thank you.

[Page 9917]

MR. MACLEOD « » : Well, I want to thank the minister for his answer - and I would suggest there are some ministers over there could actually listen and see how an answer is given.

Mr. Speaker, it is very important that all information from this study be on the table for Nova Scotians to see during the consultation process. It's also very important that the 12 sessions be meaningful consultations, and that the wishes of Nova Scotians are certainly taken into account.

So the question for the minister is, would the minister please outline the specific timeline established by his department to make a decision on the tolling after the conclusion of the consultation process this summer?

MR. MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, we haven't identified what we would do in terms of a timeline after the consultations and the community feedback is received. Certainly we didn't, as we said many times, it's not something that we want to let linger and just sort of dissipate. So we're going to move quickly on that.

Again, with the nature of it I think with the response we'll get from the public on both sides of the conversation, I think you know, it will be important to get that out quick. So, as soon as we have all that complied, I'm sure the member, and the members of his caucus, and all Nova Scotians will have a role to play and will have a vested interest. We'll pull that all together and release it and have it to Nova Scotians as soon as we can.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

AGRIC. - GMO ALFALFA SEED: N.S. SALES - CONFIRM

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : My question this time is for the Minister of Agriculture. More and more people are concerned about GMOs. Earlier this year a foreign company signalled that it might begin selling genetically-modified alfalfa seed in Eastern Canada in April. Canadian farmers strongly oppose this introduction into Canada for many reasons, and the 2013 report called The Case for Preventing the Introduction of Roundup Ready Alfalfa explains in detail why this is the case.

The National Farmers Union has already written a letter to the federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food raising their concerns about the issue, and many farmers are writing to me as well. My question for the minister is, can he confirm for us today whether or not genetically-modified alfalfa seed is currently being sold in Nova Scotia?

[Page 9918]

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : As the member will know, this is a federal decision, not a provincial decision, to use genetically-modified alfalfa in Canada. We've expressed our concern about that to the federal minister, and at this point I'm not sure if there's any for sale in Nova Scotia. We're investigating as we speak.

MS. ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that response from the minister. We've talked about this in the estimates, and I am very curious to know whether or not it is actually being sold here in Nova Scotia yet. Numerous people are now contacting my office, concerned about this issue, claiming that the federal government has not assessed the economic impacts and has not consulted with Nova Scotia's farmers. In fact, a move in this direction could have serious implications for the future of farming in Nova Scotia. Several alfalfa markets are highly sensitive to GM contamination, and certain countries have banned their importation.

I'd like to ask the minister, how is he working with his federal counterpart and Nova Scotia farmers to address this issue?

MR. COLWELL « » : We've been working very closely with the Federation of Agriculture, as we do on every topic. We're very pleased to have their support as we move forward. We have brought this issue up with the federal minister, and we'll continue those discussions.

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

EECD: CHILD CARE SPACES - INCREASE

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. The minister's own review of regulated child care said that insufficient spaces and limited options are a reality in some parts of Nova Scotia.

My question is, since there are insufficient spaces, when does the minister plan to increase access to child care?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Thank you to the member for the question. The information he shares is certainly consistent with the findings when we did our consultation: we have to look at where we have spaces. In some areas of the province we have more spaces than we need, and in others we don't have enough, so part of the challenge but part of our responsibility as well is to make sure that we look at those areas that are under-represented and those areas that are not to make sure that we provide that accessibility across all parts of this province.

MR. DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, just over a month ago, the minister released the consultations findings and recommendations from the review of the regulated child care sector. Among the recommendations was a call to increase the child care options available to families and improving access to infant care and to children with special needs. A press release said the minister accepted all recommendations.

[Page 9919]

My question to the minister is, how many new child care spaces will the minister allow?

MS. CASEY « » : Again to the member opposite, I cannot tell the member how many spaces there will be. I've indicated that when we sit down with the sector we will be looking at those under-represented areas where we need new ones. We will be looking at applications that are coming in from new operators who want to start up a daycare. We'll be looking at interest from existing operators as to whether they want to expand their operation.

That kind of information and those kinds of decisions will absolutely be a priority for us. We did say that accessibility is an issue, and Nova Scotians told us accessibility is an issue. It's our responsibility to respond to that.

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

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER « » : 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. 174.

Bill No. 174 - Financial Measures (2016) Act.

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

HON. DAVID WILSON « » : I'm glad to rise today on what will probably be our last day in this session. It has been an interesting process throughout the last - I don't know if it has been a couple of months, but it has been a number of weeks. A couple of months - it seems like we're having so much fun here I forget when we entered.

AN HON. MEMBER: April 14^th.

[Page 9920]

MR. DAVID WILSON « » : April 14^th. It's a time when Nova Scotians look at a government and look at what the path forward is in our province. With the Financial Measures piece of legislation, definitely it concludes the mechanism of ensuring that the funds that are available for the budget to implement that path forward happen.

Of course, there are a few other caveats within the financial measures that are associated with that. One is talking about the Yarmouth ferry and the mechanism there. We know we've heard a lot over the last couple of weeks, if not month or so, on that service in Yarmouth.

But as a whole, especially for myself, looking at what our path forward is, there are some good things that I've seen in the budget. I've said this before - when you spend the amount of money that's included in the budget, there are going to be good outcomes. There are going to be good things that are being invested in or being provided funds to hopefully address the issues that all of us, as members of the Legislature, hear from constituents on. I want to be very clear on that.

But over the years, even though there are positive things when you spend $10 billion or you spend $4 billion in health care, and there are positive things, there are also ramifications to the decision or the path forward that the government is taking. We know over the last two and a half years since this government has taken over and won that election in 2013, that the path forward definitely has been one of austerity, one of doom and gloom, one of needing to go after what they or the government perceives as huge cost factors in government. It's no secret. I think the first piece of legislation we saw in 2013 went right after our Public Service workers, our health care workers, our doctors, our nurses, our paramedics, those who work in correction, and those who work in labs across our province.

I relate back to that path forward because what's concerning to me is that just a few short months ago, we heard the update or the forecast of the province in December - not a lot of people paying attention. We had just finished a session in the Chamber here; people were getting ready for Christmas. But that forecast which was delivered to Nova Scotians painted that doom and gloom picture that the government has been painting for some two and a half years now.

I reflect on health care, for example, the health care budget. Back in December we were told and Nova Scotians were told that they were on track to have a deficit within the Department of Health and Wellness and their budget that had been passed last year, the path forward that the government said they were going to take last year of over $1 million. I have to say that's pretty close, and that can be increased pretty quickly in health because of the sheer cost of health care. But some few short months later we saw, when we received the budget documents, when we saw the numbers that are produced from the government, that the Department of Health and Wellness underspent their budget.

[Page 9921]

I know how important health care dollars are, and Nova Scotians know how important health care dollars are. Every dollar invested means the ability for a government to improve the lives of Nova Scotians. The budget is over $4 billion, and every dollar that's invested in health care could mean a positive thing for someone who's suffering a chronic disease, or someone who has an illness or an injury or needs surgery. Every single dollar counts.

I'm not just saying that because I'm in Opposition and I'm here to criticize the government. I say that out of experiences that I've had. Being a front-line health care worker opens your eyes pretty quickly to the needs of health care - especially front line - and the importance of investing and targeting that investment in the appropriate way. As a medic, knowing that if you expanded the scope of practice of a paramedic, you could help more people. You knew you could address another ailment or another injury or another sickness, that you potentially could save that person's life.

Knowing that investing makes a difference in someone's life - and we know that a lot of the debate and discussion around health care is that it's just a big open pit that will continue to cost more and more money. We're going to have to continue to increase the budget of health care as we go into the future. Costs of doing business and providing that care are going to increase with inflation. We can't get away from that, and governments prior to this one recognized that and made it a priority.

No matter what the Premier will say, or no matter what the minister will say, I'm very proud of the accomplishments that our government made within the health care sector.

We made a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians because of the investment that we made, because of the path forward that we made in health care and health care delivery in Nova Scotia. I also say this as an MLA, but as the former Minister of Health and Wellness - and at the time we had the district health authorities - I know that when you ask those districts to go back to the table and look at how you can change your budget, find some savings, it meant that there would be some consequences to that. We understood that, and I understood that, as minister and as a government, Mr. Speaker.

We know that that has to happen, and I think the key for us and the priority for us was to reduce health administration costs, which we were successful in. In 2009, I think Nova Scotia had the second, if not the third, highest health administration costs in the country. The only two jurisdictions that had higher health care administration costs than Nova Scotia were Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. We were third, Mr. Speaker, and within four years we were able to bring that down to below the national average, which was a success. It's not something you can parade around the streets and say, look how successful we were, let's have a victory party. But we knew it was the right thing to do, even though it wasn't going to gain us any real additional support from voters, for example, or people saying, that is the number one thing you needed to do, you're amazing.

[Page 9922]

It was the right thing to do because we knew we needed to take that savings and invest it and target that investment and tell Nova Scotians where we're going, the path forward. Knowing the investments we made in Collaborative Emergency Centres to address an issue that was facing so many Nova Scotians across our province - it's facing Canadians across our country too. That's why other jurisdictions have adopted that model of care.

We hear from the minister sometimes, kind of criticizing it and saying, well, it's not really an emergency department. I have to stand here and disagree with the minister and with the government's stance on that, Mr. Speaker. It addressed the need. It looked at trying to make sure that those health care providers in those communities worked to their full scope of practice, that they were able to contribute in a different way to support Nova

Scotians especially in health care, Mr. Speaker. That investment was important and it was needed but it was not a huge dollar value and that is the interesting thing.

If the government will look at new initiatives and look at ways to address health care, that is a prime example and a study that could take place to say, okay, you really do not need a lot of money or to increase the budget to address an issue for our residents. Really, the only real increase in dollars was in kind of the construction or infrastructure part of it to revamp the emergency department, to hopefully facilitate the collaborative walk-in clinics that associated this new model of care. That was really where the money was and I do not even think it reached $20 million. So in the full scheme of things, it was under $20 million, an investment that made a difference in people's lives.

I know the Leader of the Official Opposition talks about Parrsboro right now where they are having some difficulties for the first time really since that Collaborative Emergency Centre opened because one of the physicians is on maternity leave I believe. It is not an issue of the CEC, it is an issue of a doctor shortage, which I will get to in a couple of minutes, Mr. Speaker. So, it is an example of how government could invest in health care; and, the need to invest is there to try to improve things. That is what I think Nova Scotians want from all of us as MLAs, but that is what Nova Scotians want from this Liberal Government. Let us see some improvements.

Listen, there is going to be no parade for the Minister of Health and Wellness or the Premier or the Liberals for them amalgamating the district health authorities. I am going to tell the minister right now there was no parade when we dropped the health administration cost from one of the highest in the country to below the national average. There will be no parade for the Liberals when this amalgamation is up and running fully, which I know it is not right now. We are hearing what you might want to call growing pains of doing such a massive project in change in delivery of how health care is overseen here in our province.

I was trying to get to the point that government's path forward, their investment in health, is important. We know for the second year in a row there is a freeze in the budget for health. I say it is a cut because it does not even meet the inflation rate for the province. I know the member for Cape Breton-Richmond would agree with me 100 per cent; if he does not, I know he will correct me.

[Page 9923]

I learned that from some members over the years. I know that the lack of a path forward in health is going to impact Nova Scotians and especially with the Financial Measures (2016) Bill - knowing that the budget is flat, really not meeting the needs of Nova Scotians - that unfortunately I will probably be on my feet a lot more in the future discussing issues that are concerning to Nova Scotians, especially around health care delivery.

We know that in this budget when you went through the exercise of the estimates and when you have the numbers in front of you looking at what was underspent in some areas just leaves you scratching your head, and as I said it is not just members of the Opposition. There have been a number of news outlets that have done some in-depth coverage of underspending money, especially in hospital infrastructure and the minister and the Premier and the government continue to say well, those projects that that money was for is going to continue on, we are going to fund those. But that money was allocated in the budget last year.

That was the path forward. That was the commitment the Liberal Government made to Nova Scotians. Underspending that budget by tens of millions of dollars does not help improve the situation that we have on the ground across this province. If those projects were not going forward, if they were delayed for whatever reason, then, that money could have been spent moving some of the other projects up on the priority list to get the infrastructure needs of our province met when it comes to hospital infrastructure. All Parties know that that money could have been spent in the hospitals, in the clinics in their area, that would have made a huge impact.

When the minister and the Premier say those projects are forward, it's rolling over, but when you look at this year's numbers and the numbers that are in the Financial Measures (2016) Bill, on the overall budget for Health and Wellness, infrastructure funding didn't go up by the amount that was saved last year - it actually went down this year. So it's very difficult for me to agree with, to believe that's the case when it comes to the underspent budget in health care, especially under the hospital infrastructure money, Mr. Speaker.

There are so many needs out there. The biggest one, the one that has been in the news the most recently, of course is the Centennial Building and the issues there. It's no secret, I think all Parties over the last number of years have agreed that that needs to come down; there needs to be a change in that.

But that's not the only one, that's the one that gets the top news story when water is leaking from the roof and you have to cancel surgeries. There are small hospitals throughout this province and communities that might not get on CTV with the conditions they are in, the needs they have, and that's unfortunate. There's a missed opportunity, a missed opportunity to support those communities, those hospital infrastructure projects, Mr. Speaker.

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We know from a number of years ago when the government came in they wanted to reduce the red tape. I don't know where that term came from, Mr. Speaker, "red tape" - maybe it was because of all the policies and the roadblocks that former Liberal Governments put in and made it hard for business to do business, made it hard for organizations to get answers from government, and they just named it red tape. I don't know if that's where it came from, but I know the government said they would work towards reducing those barriers, reducing the red tape. They have done some, I want to commend the government, they have done some. The minister and a number of ministers have worked on that file to try to streamline applications online and hopefully try to gear people towards the right phone number to call or the right department.

One of the areas where I see huge roadblocks being put up, and policies, changes, that are going to hurt the ability to streamline things is within health care, Mr. Speaker. Here the government has indicated to Nova Scotians they were tearing down the walls of the health authorities around the province because that needed to be done, because that streamlining of care and policies and procedures need to transform.

Mr. Speaker, the new Health Authority had just put up one of, I think, the most damning roadblocks in our province and that's dealing with physicians and physicians' accreditation. I've stood in my place weeks before the Progressive Conservatives finally realized that yes, there's a doctor shortage in this province, we should be talking about this, so I was talking about it almost from day one of the opening of the sitting about this doctor shortage.

Then I start getting correspondence, emails, phone calls from those people who are affected by not having a doctor, who might be losing their doctor, but I'm also hearing from physicians who say that now the procedure to get accreditation to get a licence, in the central area especially, is so restrictive that it's turning off potential physicians from even coming to Nova Scotia. If the government can't understand that that's a serious issue, they need to revisit this. The destruction of the number of physicians and recruitment and retention that we have in this province will continue, Mr. Speaker, we're going to be in a serious problem, even worse than what we have today.

It's not even just in HRM, but it's going to compound that issue that we've seen for years in rural Nova Scotia. The new Health Authority put in a policy that restricts issuing of new accreditation, new licences in the central zone. The reason behind what we're hearing and it seems like everybody involved has the same talking points because they repeat the same thing, which I know the member for Argyle-Barrington mentioned to the minister some time ago in a debate, that those talking points have been in the department for a lot of years, Mr. Speaker. They're not right. We need to have a government that moves us forward, that has a path forward that addresses the needs.

[Page 9925]

It doesn't matter if we have one of the highest percentages of doctor retention in the country to those people who don't have a doctor; we could be at 99.9 per cent. When we bring this issue up, we hear from the government, oh we have the most doctors, it's not an issue. It is an issue to those people who don't have a doctor. I'm hearing from so many of them in my community now, in Sackville-Cobequid and around that area, who don't have a doctor, who won't have a doctor come retirement.

This change in policy is not only restricting the new licences of doctors, but it's also putting in hurdles for physicians to get accredited. We've had doctors now in this province who have been practising for 25-plus years. When they graduated from medical school, if it was Dalhousie or whatever medical school was recognized in Nova Scotia, and they came here to practise, they had to register and prove that they did the schooling to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia, and they issued them a licence to practise in Nova Scotia. I'm not talking about hospital privileges. I'm talking about issuing a licence so that they can practise in Nova Scotia.

That's how it has been, forever, I think, Mr. Speaker, since the college was formed. If you go into your doctor's office, you usually see that nicely framed diploma from wherever or whatever medical school they have. That's one indication that they have been certified to be a physician.

But the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia do their due diligence. When they issue a licence to pending physicians, they do their job to make sure that they're competent and they can provide care in Nova Scotia.

Now physicians and those who have been here 20 or 25 years not only need to have that licence, but also they need the almighty okay from the new Health Authority to practise in Nova Scotia. I'm hearing from physicians who feel angry, who feel offended by some of the questions that are asked in that process. I know it's not directly in the minister's office, but he needs to check into this and ask questions around why we are making these physicians jump through another hoop. I don't see why the government would lose faith in the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia to do their job. I don't believe they've done anything to warrant not recognizing the due diligence that they do to issue new licences, doctor's licences, in the province.

Now this new Health Authority is requiring current physicians to send a copy of their diploma. I remember hearing from one physician who said, my diploma's been on the wall in a framed case for 20-some years. They really want me to take it out and send it in to the new Health Authority? Really, that's archaic as a way of proving that you have a doctor's licence. To me that's just one example of what these physicians are being asked for now. These are current physicians who have been practising for a long time.

[Page 9926]

Not only that, a questionnaire asks if they've ever taken maternity leave in the past. Why the heck are we asking physicians that question? To me that's irrelevant. It shouldn't be anywhere on a questionnaire that you're asking a physician. Have they ever taken maternity leave in the past? Why is that on there?

I don't know, and I wish I would have had some more Question Periods to get deep in this, but that's why I'm taking my time today to bring some of these issues up: so that Nova Scotians know that there are roadblocks now in place for the physician that sees you that are making them frustrated.

Physicians are busy right now. To me they don't have time to take their diploma off the wall of their office, take it out of the frame, try to get an appropriate copy of it or the original in to them, answer questions if they're going to take maternity leave and many, many more other obstacles. Why is the government allowing the Health Authority to do this?

That's why I've criticized the minister and the government during estimates around some of the changes within the minister's office. You need some supportive administration there. I never felt when I was there that it was top-heavy. I don't think I've heard from the minister currently that when he came in that he felt it was top-heavy. But they made changes and reduced the number of senior officials within the Department of Health and Wellness who could look into these issues when they come forward.

When we bring issues like this to the floor of the House, it's often said by the minister and the government that, well the Health Authority made that decision. I mean, they need to be accountable, which I agree to, to a certain extent, but on these issues of recruitment of physicians, issuing new licences for physicians, this I think needs to be something that the department, the minister's office, ensures happens in a seamless manner.

If we have a physician inquiring to come to Nova Scotia, those people should be on the fast track of trying to get a licence. Making sure that they're accredited and they come from a viable school that is recognized, and issue a licence so that we can welcome them to the province, but what they're facing now is not only the college, but now this new super Health Authority across our province, Mr. Speaker, and they're going to damage the health care system, damage the system.

The minister indicates that there's about a four-week turnaround. To me, the government is missing the point. The point was that we had a system of accreditation, which I think was working well. If there's an issue of giving credentials to hospitals, that's something different. I understand that the Health Authority would be involved on that level, but to get into giving the green light to a new physician to Nova Scotia I think is duplicating what's already there. I thought that was the whole idea of amalgamating the district health authorities - get rid of duplicating processes, Mr. Speaker, and yet, they're adding one here and it concerns me.

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It concerns physicians who are working today. It concerns new graduates and I have to associate the restriction of licences to of course, looking at the walk-in clinics that kind of is in the sights of the government saying we need to move to a more collaborative way, and my criticism over the last number of weeks has been the fact that these collaborative care clinics or practices, there are some already in the province. You know, I had the honour of officially opening one in the Valley myself, next to Soldiers' Memorial, Mr. Speaker. They're there, but until they're in the communities that need them to target that issue of doctor shortages, and patients going without a physician, why are we putting in these restrictions? Why are we making it more difficult for doctors to get their licence here in Nova Scotia?

I have to say, word spreads quickly around the doctors' world and when they know there are more hurdles to jump to get your licence in Nova Scotia, unfortunately, they're going to look at the next province, or the next jurisdiction. That's just exactly what's going to happen, Mr. Speaker, and that's unfortunate. So I hope the minister and the government recognize the need to change that; we need to re-evaluate that; and the minister needs to step in and try to change what's going on.

The other thing in health that we're hearing now, and unfortunately we may start to hear it more and more, is that loss of voice from communities around the province. With the Health Authority here, the head office is in Bayers Lake I believe, Mr. Speaker. We heard questions from members of the Opposition today on that, from Cape Breton especially. I know how passionate the people of Cape Breton are about ensuring that their needs are met, especially in health care. I've been down there many times, and I've heard very loud and clear over the years that they don't want to be instructed from Halifax on how to improve the lives of people in Cape Breton, and I fear that with this amalgamation that that voice that is needed to make the decisions in Cape Breton won't be heard loud enough here in Halifax.

Mr. Speaker, there was an example of it today in Question Period. I've heard that people who work within and volunteer in community health organizations, at the community level, are feeling very frustrated that the changes in the Health Authority have really dampened their ability to make sure that they're being heard and the needs of the community are being met. Those are the people, especially the volunteer community health boards, who will hear first-hand that their neighbour, the person down the street, their needs aren't being met in health - what can we do to fix it here? Let's get that up into a decision making within the Health Authority.

I'm afraid we're going to continue to see that example increase over the next little while, and that should be concerning to the minister. That should be concerning to Nova Scotians. I know that once I say "Cape Breton" I have all the eyes of the Cape Breton MLAs on me, and it should be concerning to them, because the last thing we need is to have areas of our province not having the adequate opportunity to voice their concerns, and I don't think that's being met right now, Mr. Speaker.

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Overall, with this budget we're going to have to see into the future the path forward that the government took and how Nova Scotians respond to that. I mean, ultimately, Nova Scotians will respond during general elections. That's a given. When governments provide that path forward and the commitments that they make in the budget, they're going to evaluate that. I have to say that there are a number of examples that we can pull out where Nova Scotians won't take too kindly to the fact that the government hasn't done what they said they would do when they present their budgets, especially when they present the Financial Measures (2016) Act, that kind of is really the last component of the budget-passing and the allocation of the funds.

We do have concerns, and we're going to continue as an Opposition Party to bring them forward to make sure that we hold the government accountable to Nova Scotians on their commitments in the budget - not only at election time but in the budgets. They're just as important as what you put in your platform when you run in an election. The commitments you make in a budget are just as important as those commitments in elections, and our continued role will be to make sure that they are accountable. I look forward to doing that into the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

MR. TIM HOUSTON « » : As the session winds down here and we all go back to our constituencies, people will ask, well, what happened in the session? What were the highlights of the session? I think there are going to be a few key takeaways. We'll all have our own individual takeaways, but my takeaways are the ferry, the doctor shortage, and just the ability to communicate with Nova Scotians in a fair way. Those are the three things that will come out of this for me.

Obviously with the ferry, many, many Nova Scotians are disappointed with the deal that this government entered taxpayers into. It is indeed the gift that keeps on giving for many players in that arrangement, but it is not a gift that keeps on giving for Nova Scotia taxpayers; it is a gift that keeps on taking from Nova Scotia taxpayers, right down to painting the lines on a parking lot in Portland. You really can't make this stuff up, Mr. Speaker. That's how poorly the interests of the taxpayers of this province were represented in this whole situation.

We heard at Public Accounts Committee - when asked if the proponent, the operator of Bay Ferries could possibly lose money on this deal, we heard the deputy minister say, yes, if an asteroid hits. That truly is a good summary of the contract that this government entered the taxpayers into. It really is that bad.

When people ask me about their road in rural Nova Scotia, or they ask me why is the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal saying that I, as a property owner, have to pay for this culvert, or why is the department saying they won't fix this road? I will say that part of the reason is because they made a decision of where they were going to spend money, and that was on painting lines in Portland and on fixing terminals in Portland and slanting everything away from this province. Why they did that, only they will know, but it is certainly something that Nova Scotians will know happened; whether they agree with it or not, they will know that it happened.

[Page 9929]

Even now we know that Nova Scotians are clearly viewed by this government as simply a source of revenue to finance their projects, with nothing going back. When the minister says just yesterday, in response to the media scrum about whether or not the government would make passenger numbers available, the minister sadly said I have not asked specifically about the release of the numbers, so we will have that discussion. With whom? They will have that discussion with the operator.

So the operator will determine if the management fee is disclosed; the operator will determine if Nova Scotians know how many passengers took it. I cannot even think of an analogy to properly describe how ridiculous that is. The taxpayers of this province have a right to know that information particularly from the self-proclaimed most open and transparent government in history - in history. I think what we are seeing is the reality of - maybe that was an aspiration of the government, it might have been the Premier's aspiration to be the most open and transparent - there is a little more work to do on that for sure, Mr. Speaker. So the ferry is something that will be a discussion this summer.

The other key highlight that people understand is the doctor shortage. You cannot trick people into believing they have a doctor when they do not; you cannot make them think they have a doctor when they do not have one. I know there is lots of effort to do that in terms of all the wonderful things that are coming down the road, or ratios of doctors to citizens and stuff, but the sad reality is when you're looking for a doctor and you need a doctor and you cannot find one, you will not be fooled on that.

There are things that can be done to address this issue, and I hear from doctors that talk about just policies, policies, internal policies of the government that they have a chance to address, that are holding things back. We heard that there's going to be an agreement, a much-awaited agreement with the doctors - it may be signed now and announced. And we will see if that goes any way - that was obviously more than a year in the making and negotiated by somebody, a Liberal insider who was paid a very handsome price to do that. And maybe we could have used some of that expertise on the ferry deal - who knows? Maybe it was a lesson learned by the government; we don't know. We know for sure that the public pressure that was put on this issue over the last two weeks has resulted in forcing the government to do something.

I was listening to some residents, some residents at Dalhousie on the radio yesterday who were taking issue with some of the things that some of the senior bureaucrats in the Department of Health and Wellness had said, particularly around how many residents will stay. An interesting thing that came out of that is those residents said that they had been asked by the department if they intended to stay in the province, and it might surprise you to know when they were asked - they were asked 36 hours before they were on the radio. They were asked on Tuesday or Wednesday this week - for the very first time. And yet, last week, we had the department out there patting themselves on the back saying how many residents will be staying.

[Page 9930]

You know, leadership really does start at the top on these things, and I congratulate my colleagues in Opposition for bringing this issue forward and forcing the government to try to respond to it. And we will see if the response has a positive impact for Nova Scotians. But for today, not so much - calls are still overwhelming many of our offices by people looking for doctors.

So we had the ferry; we had the doctor shortage; and the last really key highlight for me has to do with the - it goes right to integrity around disclosures and really proper communication with the taxpayers.

Just this week, in fact, the Premier has been very loud and boisterous the last couple of days about asking me about the amalgamation, the restructuring in Pictou County. My position is quite well stated on that, that I'm listening to the people of the county. It's amazing to me that the Premier doesn't understand the value of listening to people, and he doesn't. He doesn't, because we see it in the legislation.

Just yesterday we were in this House talking about a piece of legislation on municipal government reform where municipalities are saying nobody asked us; nobody listens to us. It's really consistent with his mannerisms; why would you listen to people? I don't take that approach in dealing with Nova Scotians. I know they deserve a little more respect than that, and I prefer to give that to them.

We see this happening now right in this bill, in the FMA (2016). We have the judges - sitting in your position wearing that nice cloak today, Mr. Speaker, you probably understand the importance of judicial oversight. Yet here we have judges saying this government is flaunting our concerns. This government thinks they know more than us. Because they won't listen to them.

Again, the theme goes right back to the character of the people who are running the show here. They will say one thing and do another, and that's clear in this. Yes, Mr. Premier, I am listening to the people of Pictou County on this important issue, and my advice to you, sir, would be to do likewise on a number of important issues as well.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Please direct your comments through the Chair, not directly to members of this House.

[Page 9931]

The honourable member for Pictou East.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I certainly retract that. It won't change the intent of what I'm saying, but through you, Mr. Speaker, I would urge the Premier to listen to Nova Scotians on some of these important issues. It might actually go a long way.

Here we are today, and I had to have a bit of a chuckle yesterday because obviously we know that the government doesn't respect the opinions of Nova Scotians enough to listen to them, and they say that with their heckling.

But they also don't seem to understand what actual tax reform means. We actually had a minister saying we're reducing taxes; we're reducing the tax burden on municipalities and small businesses in those. Quite the opposite: there's a big difference between deferring when somebody has to pay the taxes and changing what they're paying. Those are two dramatically different things. It's unfortunate that the government doesn't seem to grasp that. But they don't. That will come through in a number of ways.

As we end this session, I am happy to see that the government is showing a lot of consistency on one particular point - they are consistently unable to put complete legislation before this House. You can always count on this government to come back to the same piece of legislation two or three times and try to improve what they missed the first time around. That came through very clearly in this FMA, where the minister is making a change to the investment tax credits, which were introduced by this government last year.

On a minimum investment of $15 million, you get a tax credit of 15 per cent. Apparently that was not completely thought out last year, no surprise there, Mr. Speaker. They're coming back for another kick at the can this year saying well maybe we should cap that. I'm sure that people looking at this province and the way they execute their capping, will take great comfort in that. People in the film industry know all about the way this government understands the concept of capping. For now I think the point is clear that you can count on this government to not get it right the first time. You can absolutely count on this government to try to do something, fumble and drop the ball, and kick it, and come back, and try to fix it again. That's an absolute certainty with this government, right up into this piece right here; no doubt we will see that.

I'm sure the Minister of Municipal Affairs' bill that went through yesterday after two weeks will be back, it will be back. It's not properly thought out, it'll be poorly executed, and it will be back. (Interruption) Well if he wants to offer a wager I think my comments on that are pretty clear on how I feel what will happen there. That is the reality. So, when people ask me, how did it go in Halifax? What happened? I will say, there are some standout things around the ferry, around the doctors, and around kind of a bumbling consistency of effectiveness with this government.

[Page 9932]

Also, just in closing, I think I would talk about - and I don't know if it's intentional or just follows into the category of bumbling again as well, but either one is not that good - that's the disclosure of information. We know Nova Scotians know the ferry is expensive. They still know that, despite a sleight of hand by the government to try to put some money in last year. It doesn't change that fact. People know that it's expensive and they can stuff $13 million into last year and pretend that that's come and gone. It hasn't come and gone, Mr. Speaker.

They know on the convention centre that, while some debits and credits may add up for today, they understand that the government is talking out of the side of its mouth on all the wonderful additional funds it has and what it intends to do, with the same pot of money. They'll know, they'll figure that out.

I'll point out my colleague from Kings North who showed me just this morning - I mean, Mr. Speaker, the volume of documents that come with the budget. We have 40 hours to talk about them here, and then probably if most members are like myself they go home over the summer, and they continue to read them numerous times, bedside reading and stuff. Stuff continues to come out of them.

Just this morning my colleague, the member for Kings North, said well, isn't this interesting? He had last year's Budget Estimates Books and he looked at the Department of Health and Wellness for hospital infrastructure spending, and last year the department had budgeted, had estimated that it would spend $53 million on hospital infrastructure. This year, when you look at this year's Budget Books, they also show you last year's numbers for comparative purposes. It's very interesting that when you look at the hospital infrastructure, the estimate number from last year, which in last year's book said $53 million, in this year's book says $42 million.

So Mr. Speaker, there's always a little bit of $11 million, or $13 million just kind of moving and tinkering, but people get it. People get it. They understand and they don't like it when people try to trick them, and there's a…

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order please. It is unparliamentary to imply that trickery is being used by any member in this House, so I'd ask you to retract that statement and then continue.

MR. HOUSTON « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I will retract my use of that word, but people understand $11 million movements. They understand that. You know, maybe it's just in accounting statements and maybe that doesn't thrill everyone as much as it thrills some of us, but there's been a lot of talk about that was what was estimated, and there's been a lot of talk recently in the media about how the actual spending on hospital infrastructure was well below what was budgeted for, what was estimated. Most of those numbers, most of those comparisons, were used against the $42 million.

[Page 9933]

We know that last year's budget said they spent $53 million; this year they re-characterized that as $42 million. So the underspending is $11 million higher than even people had - it's even more egregious.

It is what it is in many ways, Mr. Speaker. The government has a majority in this House and they can choose to use that majority how they see fit. Most Nova Scotians will hope that the government of the day in power uses its power toward priorities that are consistent with theirs.

I think in terms of the ferry and in terms of health care, time will tell if those priorities match up against what Nova Scotians' expectations had been. I think it's very admirable for the government to declare itself open and transparent; it's less admirable when falling so far short of that on easy things. It's not hard for this government to say, we will tell Nova Scotians how many passengers rode the ferry, they don't have to ask somebody. That's not hard. That's a decision they're making to kick that can down the road.

I believe that the reason they're doing that, and I hope it's not true, is that the numbers aren't shaping up so sporty just yet. I've heard rumours that there are less than 100 reservations on the opening sailing, and that will be a huge disappointment to a lot of people. It will be a huge disappointment to a lot of Nova Scotians who now understand that for every passenger who doesn't pay to get on that, the Nova Scotia taxpayers will fund it and the costs can get higher and higher. Every time that gets higher and higher, that is a pothole that won't be filled or a doctor who won't be available.

Needless to say, Mr. Speaker, I'm less than impressed with what I have seen, and I will be voting accordingly. With those few words, I would take my place. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River.

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise today to speak to the bill about the FMA - the Financial Measures (2016) Act. I'd like to begin in my role as the Status of Women Critic, because in general the government seems to be quite happy to pat themselves on the back about what they're doing for women in this province, but really there's little in the budget that will actually advance the status of women in Nova Scotia.

In spite of the Liberal election promise to invest in transition houses, women's centres, and second-stage housing organizations, these organizations are struggling right across the province to meet increasingly-complex needs in their communities. They are expected to hire and retain staff and offer essential programming with inadequate and unstable funding.

[Page 9934]

I really would love to see the day when women's centres are given the type of stable core funding that they really deserve. Our government did add $500,000 to the budget, which was the first raise the women's centres had received in 20 years. I have to say that the former government, the Progressive Conservative Government, did not do a thing during that time. It was the first raise in 20 years for the women's centres.

In fact, the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development in the Liberal Government was part of the Progressive Conservative caucus at that time, and I'm surprised that she didn't push to do more for women.

Also when it comes to child care, the evidence of the benefits of investing in early childhood education are clear, Mr. Speaker, which all of us in this House can agree. We can agree that the early years are critical for positive growth, development, and long-term well-being.

In fact, I was very proud to be part of the first NDP Government that started talking about early childhood development and moving it from the Department of Community Services into the Department of Education where it really belonged.

My father taught early childhood development at the Nova Scotia Teachers College in Truro 40 years ago at a time when people were not really understanding the importance of those early years. He taught me as a very young child the importance of the early years; and he always said he respected the child, he would talk to the child on a level that he felt that they could understand instead of talking down to them. He said that is why it is so important to get an even playing field across the province for our children because some children are born into households where they are not treated in this manner. In fact, they only learn a few words like shut up, sit down, eat this, go to bed, watch TV, whatever; and, then, other households, they learn 14,000 words by the time they are four years old or five years old.

It is very important to set an even playing field because in an aging province where now we have reached the point where there are more people dying than there are being born, the future of our children is very, very important. We need educated children, we need children who can learn in schools, and in order to do that - there is so much poverty in this province that many of these kids coming to school are coming to school with hungry stomachs. It is very hard to concentrate; retain information; and it also affects their behavioural issues and it affects their behaviour in the classrooms and it affects their behaviour outside of the classrooms, in recess and lunchtime because kids who are hungry are going to be perhaps more aggressive, they are not going to be as calm.

When a child has healthy food in their stomach and in their system, it also affects their brain, and it affects their brain for many, many years - for the rest of their lives, in fact. Setting that up is very important for the future of our province, and as I said, I was very proud to be part of a government that recognized that.

[Page 9935]

We changed the title of the Department of Education from the Department of Education to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. We announced in 2012 that we were going to be moving Early Years, as it was called, from the Department of Community Services. My dear friend and colleague, the member for Chester-St. Margaret's, was in charge of that, and she was in charge of the beginning of rolling out that program where the whole, entire division of Early Years would be transferred over to the Department of Education.

Now, of course, that comes with a cost. The idea was to roll out, in the beginning, $1 million to the Department of Education in order to set the groundwork for the entire division being moved over; in fact, that was done. We lost government in 2013, and then the next year, in 2014, that $1 million which was already set to go did go over into the Department of Education. There was $44 million left in the Department of Community Services for those early years. The following year, that money was transferred over from the Department of Community Services; it was no longer seen on the Budget Books of Community Services, but in fact appeared in the Department of Education. Along with some more funding, which is great, our government also announced $28 million more that we were going to be adding to the Early Childhood Development department. So I am glad to see that this government did follow up on that and add that money in.

I do have to say that I think it is very important for us to note that in the budget for 2013-14, it shows that transfer of funds and, in fact, the following year there was $55 million plus the $1 million from the year before, $56 million in the Department of Education for Early Childhood Development. The majority of that came from the Department of Community Services so, in fact, it is old money.

When I hear the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Premier say that they're putting $65 million back into Education and Early Childhood Development, they're actually just transferring old money from the Department of Community Services to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. That's not new money. That's money that is already allotted for a particular program, which is Early Years, now called Early Childhood Development, which our government, as I said, named. I think that's very important to keep in mind going forward.

The rhetoric around this $65 million needs to stop. I've been having meetings with various stakeholders now in the education system, and they are very much aware that that $65 million figure is false. I know exactly how it came about, because I talked to both school board people and the Teachers Union. It started because there was a $13 million cut, which I was against, because I don't believe in cutting anything to education. But there was $13 million, and the Teachers Union said that if the school boards were forced to add cost pressures, that would create a $65 million cost over a period of five or six years. So the Teachers Union said that if that was to happen, it would cost about $65 million.

[Page 9936]

Unfortunately, it seems that this Liberal Government took hold of that figure, and then they said it was a cut. But it wasn't a cut, Mr. Speaker. You can't cut things that haven't happened yet, like cost pressures on and on into the next six or seven years. You can't claim that as a cut, yet this government did. Well, they were the Opposition at the time, and they used that as their mantra during the last election.

It's interesting now, because a lot of the people out in the community and in these different groups are saying, well, actually, it never was $65 million. They're very much aware of that.

It's interesting, too, that 65 seems to be a popular figure with the government. The film industry is very upset, of course, because this government continues to say that there was 65 per cent given to the film industry for their costs, and they say that this was what the Film Tax Credit involved. In fact, that's false. That figure is false.

The Film Tax Credit involved around 50 per cent of labour costs for a production. The labour costs of a production could go anywhere from 20 per cent to 50 per cent, so it would be 50 per cent of the labour costs. Then if a production was to do more work outside of HRM, they got a bump of another percentage point, and I believe it was 10 per cent if they shot outside of the HRM district, in the rural communities, which is why we saw so many productions shooting in rural communities.

On that note, I have to say that my colleague, the member for Chester-St. Margaret's is very concerned. She says that so many of the productions that were shot there are now no longer being shot there. She says it's pretty dead there on the weekends, when it used to be just packed full of people and productions.

She says, for instance, that film and TV productions made on the South Shore, including Haven, Lizzie Borden, Moby Dick, Cloudburst, Dolores Claiborne, and The Book of Negroes - the communities that have served as film locations for those productions have included Lunenburg, Shelburne, Chester, Mahone Bay, and Birchtown - and also, I have to say, the Annapolis Valley, because they shot Call Me Fitz there for several seasons as well.

If a production was to produce a show for more than one term, they were also entitled to get another bump up. In the film industry, we use this as a tool right across the country. In Ontario they do this as well. It's in order to try to get more productions shot out in our rural districts to help put money into those areas.

There was only one production that actually managed to get that full amount of the 65 per cent of labour costs, and that was Haven. Haven was the only one that actually was able to take advantage of that because they shot for so many years in a row. As I said, that would be 65 per cent of the labour costs, which is only a certain percentage of the budget, not the entire budget. So for anybody to say that 65 per cent of the production was covered, it is false. That 65 per cent number is false and I think people need to be aware of that and stop using it, because it's out there now in the public and people are starting to become aware.

[Page 9937]

What that does, Mr. Speaker, is it makes people doubt this government; it makes them question their authenticity on numbers. If you've got a 65 per cent false number to the film industry, you've got a $65 million figure that they have touted over and over again about education, which we now know is false.

This does not bode well for the government and I have to say that I'm not impressed and I would have thought that people would be more thoughtful when they are using these figures, instead of trying to beat certain sectors over the head with it and also trying to, for instance, tighten the belts and freeze teachers' salaries for two years in a row while saying that they're putting $65 million back into the system.

The teachers are saying, where's the money? They're saying they're putting $65 million back, well where is it? We know where, Mr. Speaker, because the majority of that money is actually the old money going into the early childhood years.

Also I have to say when it comes to the film industry again, the government's short-sighted decision to just close down Film and Creative Industries is really sad. It makes us one of the few provinces in Canada that does not have an agency that is devoted entirely to creating films and television and other creative industries. Our government had expanded it from just film to all of the creative arts because we felt that the creative economy is the way forward for this province, and I'm really, really sad to see that that agency is gone and that NSBI is not able to fill those shoes. There's no way they can fill those shoes, they don't have the expertise, and they don't know anything really about the film industry.

It's a very complicated industry but it's a very lucrative industry and it can attract millions or billions to an economy anywhere, and it is doing so right across this country - it's doing so in Ontario, in Quebec, in Alberta, and it's doing so in British Columbia.

In Alberta I have to say our colleague Rachel Notley and her chief of staff Brian Topp have actually announced more money into their film industry and into their film tax credits, and they are building a film sound studio. All these provinces have film sound studios; in fact, they have several. In Ontario I think they have something like 16, and in British Columbia they have close to 60.

The thing about having a film sound stage, Mr. Speaker, is that you can shoot all year-round, it doesn't matter what the weather is and you can put different productions in there at different times, at the same time.

[Page 9938]

We don't have that here in Nova Scotia, so one of the reasons why our government improved the film and television tax credit was because we are on a tiny little peninsula stuck out in the Atlantic Ocean where a lot of people have never heard of us. So for people in Los Angeles, and even New York, where these film and television programs are created, the idea of going out to some tiny little Canadian province where they don't necessarily - we don't have the infrastructure, we don't have a sound stage, and we had very good crews that we had built up over the years, Mr. Speaker, and I'm sure you are aware of this. We had crews that we had been building up, that have been growing and growing over the last 30 years and we were very proud of those crews. Unfortunately, now the infrastructure has basically been demolished.

Most of the companies that provided cameras, that provided the equipment, that provided the set building, that provided the set decoration, even the casting director who had been here for over 30 years said her phones stopped ringing after the Film Tax Credit was cut and she had to close up shop - the main casting director. That hurts our actors, Mr. Speaker, and I know that you know what I'm talking about. Our actors deserve the best. The actors in Nova Scotia have stuck it out here because they love Nova Scotia. They want to be in Nova Scotia, they want to contribute to Nova Scotia. I had to leave because there wasn't enough work for me to make a living as an actor. That was back in 1977. I got on the train in Truro, Nova Scotia, and I went to Toronto, because there wasn't enough work.

I studied at York University, I studied drama and political science, and then I became a professional actor, but I couldn't live in Nova Scotia because there just wasn't enough work, and film and television is the way that you can make more money, because theatre doesn't pay very well. It's a wonderful, wonderful thing. It's one of my favourite things to do is theatre, but unfortunately, it's difficult to make a living at it, unless you're constantly working all the time, and that's hard if you're going to live in Nova Scotia, where, you know, there are only certain parts you can play.

There's only certain small theatre companies, and in fact, I have to give kudos to many of the actors and the writers, and the producers here in Nova Scotia who have formed their own companies. Including, Mr. [Deputy] Speaker's own sister, who I'm very proud of her work and Martha Irving is one of the best, and I've been pleased to see her career grow, and grow, and grow, while she remains committed to staying in Nova Scotia and helping our creative economy become better, and better, and better, and being proud of who we are and telling our stories, Mr. Speaker.

As a female in the business you know, it's difficult; and as you get older, it's difficult. So, I commend her as well for forming a company of women, who oftentimes will do shows where they play male roles, because unfortunately still there is a dichotomy here where there are more women in the industry, but there are more men's roles, and there are more male producers, more male writers who get their works produced. As a woman in the industry, it is very, very difficult, and so, Martha created a company where they do different types of works. They do original works, they do works where they play women and they play men, and part of the reason for that is because they need to keep working, and they need to keep producing so that they can stay here and put food on their table, Mr. Speaker. Those actors also were able to do movies and television, and that would help to pay them to be able to stay here enough to be able to do theatre as well.

[Page 9939]

Now, they're not doing that, Mr. Speaker, so much. I was invited to the Screen Nova Scotia Awards a few weeks ago and it was wonderful to see a room full of probably about 500 or so people at the Casino there, at the Schooner Room. People were bloodied but not bowed, that's the best way I can put it, bloodied but not bowed. They were brave, they were courageous, they were putting on a brave face, and they were saying they are not going to give up, but they've been beaten and they don't deserve it. These are people who are hard-working people, who pay their taxes just like everybody else. In fact, they are self-employed, as I was for 33 years, which makes you basically, you know, a one person business who has to create oftentimes, your own work. You write shows, you produce shows, you direct shows, and you keep it going, but it's not easy. A lot of the filmmakers, they'll mortgage their own houses just to make a movie that they believe in that will tell the story that they feel needs to be told, and our stories are being told all around the world.

So, it was exciting to see, like Studio Black receive the award for Best Production of the Year, and to see all the various actors receive the awards that they really duly deserve. Again, I think it's very important that when people, I've heard some people say from the government benches, that these are a bunch of elitists. That these are elitists. They have no idea what they are talking about. You do, Mr. [Deputy] Speaker because your sister is one.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Please do not refer to members of this House with the word "you."

The honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River has the floor.

MS. LENORE ZANN « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. That is a strange, little one there; but, yes, as I said, I think that you would understand what I am talking about in the sense that these people are not elitist because most of them are living under the poverty line. Many artists - in fact the statistics show that artists across Canada, many of them make $25,000 or under; and, that includes filmmakers, again because these small filmmakers who are making small, local films they put all of their time and effort and money into their productions. They do not make very much money from this. A few people do and you know what, good for them. That means they are successful.

I can think of a couple. The fact that Michael Donovan and Paul Donovan, two brothers from Halifax, started a little company called Salter Street Films on Salter Street and I was in one of the earliest films called Def-Con 4 which was made for $200,000. It was a Mad Max road-warrior type movie set in Nova Scotia in the future, and it cost $200,000 to make, and that movie went all around the world. I was working in Sweden, in a play in English, in Stockholm for a year, and, that movie came to town. I'm telling you, it is hard to believe how our stories and our films can make it into all of these little markets and big markets around the world; in fact, the Donovans went on then to win an Academy Award for producing Bowling for Columbine, the movie that Michael Moore directed and created. They produced that movie and they won an Academy Award. Kudos to them.

[Page 9940]

They also sold Salter Street Films after a while, and they created another company called Alliance Atlantis where they got broadcasting rights to broadcast all kinds of shows. At that point in time, they were able to start making more money and delivering services right across the country and around the world. They kept making films, George's Island was one of them; they did a number of shows, and, they started doing This Hour Has 22 Minutes of course. This Hour Has 22 Minutes is one of the shows that is becoming the longest-running TV series in Canada, filmed right here in Halifax. Isn't that wonderful? That is a success story, and I know that Michael Donovan intends to keep it running until it becomes the longest-running television series in Canadian history which would beat out, I think, The Beachcombers and one other show, but definitely The Beachcombers.

Again, these are things that we should be proud of and we should be accentuating. I think, in some, ways this government has shot itself in the foot because their members now cannot get up and crow about how wonderful it is that a film is happening in their riding or anything because they know we are going to say, yeah, right, thanks a lot for the Film Tax Credit, for making it harder for people. So, we are not hearing anything from the government benches about the movies or television or anything else that is happening or could be happening in our province, and, that is sad because again, come election time people are going to keep that in mind.

You would be surprised how many people were affected by the Film Tax Credit cut and how many people spouted out to me. We do not even have to do any propaganda about it like this government did with other things because people are aware, and, they say to me, oh, it is a shame about that film and television industry. You know, we were seeing people shooting, people coming in all kinds of places - yes, they really did, they made a big mistake there. So that is coming from the mouths of Nova Scotians, taxpaying, voting Nova Scotians. That was one thing that I particularly, obviously care about.

Also, as I said, the new incentive fund is not really working, and, it really bothered me and disappointed me when I found out that of the $10 million figure that was supposed to be in the budget this year for film and television actually is only $6.7 million because NSBI is using the two productions that were done last year, and they are subtracting them from the $10 million that we were told was going to be available this year. So, really, there is only $6.7 million available this year in that fund.

[Page 9941]

The other thing is that the minister responsible for NSBI has said, oh, you know 17 projects are already being announced or coming forward that are going to be using that fund, but the majority of those productions are very small productions. A number of them are Eastlink productions that don't even hire actors. They are not necessarily professional productions using professional people.

That's not necessarily a good sign, Mr. Speaker, and in fact the funding for those small productions is around $5,000, $2,500, something like that - small. A low-budget film in this day and age is approximately $4 million for a small budget movie.

When I was first starting out, a low-budget movie would be like $1.4 million, $1.5 million. These days $4 million is a low-budget movie and, as we know, the big blockbusters are spending $200 million, $300 million and they actually are raking in the dollars around the world.

It's interesting to note that many Canadians are, in fact, actors and writers and producers and directors on those big blockbusting movies. In fact you have to look at Titanic and movies like that, they were directed by Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, the opportunity in this budget for going forward with our creative industries in Nova Scotia I think has been blown. Even talking about the arts, there's a small fund there that has been added into Communities, Culture and Heritage but again the Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister mentioned the other day how jobs in the creative sector had gone up under this government but, in fact, when we looked at the numbers and the statistics, it in fact shows that the jobs in the creative sector went up from 2010 to 2013 while we were in government and went down by 1.8 per cent after that, when this government came into power. I'm sure that those job losses will be even more now because of the whole Film Tax Credit debacle.

The other thing I'd like to talk about today is child care, getting back to child care. You know, Mr. Speaker, we need skilled workers and we need to grow the population. A properly designed early childhood education system can meet the diverse needs of children and support parents, especially women, as they work, study and participate in community life. Developing a system of early childhood education is an economic development. Currently in Nova Scotia there are just under 18,000 regulated child care spaces, enough for only 11 per cent of children ages zero to 2 and 39 per cent of children ages 2 to 4. However, almost 80 per cent of mothers with children who need child care, children ages 2 to 4, are in the labour force so parents in the province can actually pay between $10,000 and $12,000 per year for child care, which is often more than a university tuition.

Mr. Speaker, when I asked the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development about the $6.6 million that is going towards early childhood years this year, in her notes and in the mandate it said they would be spreading that $6.6 million among three things: (1) raising wages for child care educators, which is fantastic and I approve; (2) adding more child care spaces - fantastic, I approve; and (3) getting more inclusion for children with special needs and accessibility issues into the early childhood years.

[Page 9942]

When I asked about that in Budget Estimates, the minister gave a puzzling response. She said actually no, it's not about the special needs, this is not about inclusion; this $6.6 million is not to go towards that. It's only to go towards the child care spaces and raising the salaries of the educators.

I asked twice about this. I said well it says in the mandate and in your own department's notes that it's going towards this three-pronged approach. It's interesting because she said no, no, it's just these two. I said well even if it's just those two, $6.6 million does not really go very far. In fact, it only works out to a small amount of money for raises for child care workers. She was unable to tell me how many child care spaces would be added, and she was also unable to tell me just how many educators and how much their funding would be raised. I asked, how did you come up with the $6.6 million, then? How did you come up with that figure? She was unable to tell me.

Today in the House, some of our colleagues asked questions about how many child care spaces, where the money is going. Again, she said she was not sure. This is after doing a study asking all kinds of people in the sector what they need. You would think they would have an idea by now.

The government seems to be trying to convince Nova Scotians that an additional investment of $63 per child will be adequate. Mr. Speaker, $63 per child is not really adequate to increase both affordability and wages.

The other thing is that the minister has said in the House that she intends to bring wages up to the national average, but to move workers from the current provincial average of $30,389 annually to the national average of $36,900 per year would actually cost $14,779,000 - more than twice the amount in this budget. The numbers just don't add up. The reason that we're left to try to figure out how the government is going to fulfill its promises to parents and child care workers is because the minister will not or cannot explain what her department actually plans to do.

Some people might say, oh, why are they going on about this? But this is our job. As critics, this is our job. We're supposed to delve into the numbers. We just spent 40 hours on Budget Estimates trying to dig into the numbers in every department that came up for our inspection and find out where the money is actually going. I was unable to find out the answers to these very simple questions. In fact, the Official Opposition is saying the same thing.

Again, I would like to point out that the majority of that money in early childhood development is coming from the Department of Community Services, and the new money, we don't know where it's going. We don't know what it's going to be spent on. We've asked and asked and asked, and there are no answers.

[Page 9943]

The other problem with this is that early childhood educators and people who are experts on this subject say that grants and subsidies are not the way to go to improve the early child care system. There needs to be an overhaul of the early childhood system and there needs to be set core funding for these early childhood teachers, not coming just through grants and subsidies. What this government is going to be doing is simply that: grants and subsidies. Again, the experts say that doesn't work.

Interestingly enough, in education, the teachers are saying that this focus on testing and on the three Rs is something that the Americans have tried - in fact, it's been tried before here in Nova Scotia; it's been tried before in Canada. They say that it doesn't work because the testing that is being used now here in Nova Scotia is from a private American company that the government pays to give them this testing, to give out, to roll out to children and it's called CORE, CORE, CORE. Teachers say it doesn't work.

My own father, who trained many of the teachers in Nova Scotia, across Nova Scotia, right across the province 40 years ago he taught early childhood development and he taught modern methods of education, and 40 years ago he said these tests don't work. All that they prove is whether a kid can memorize something or not. That's all they can prove, because the kid could memorize it for the test, and then guess what? It's out of their heads the next day; they don't retain it. Whereas with new and modern methods of education, where children are working together, and they're problem solving and all these kinds of things, these tend to work much better with a child.

I've heard from industrial arts teachers that even with mathematics, when you teach a child how to build a house, when you teach a child how to build something with their hands, they may not be good in mathematics as a subject, but when you start teaching them how you have to do certain angles and degrees and something in order to make it straight, and make it stand up, guess what, Mr. Speaker? They get excited and they get it, and all of a sudden they're starting to learn mathematics, but in a way that means something to them, and that is they take it inside of themselves and it becomes a core knowledge that they can go forward and they can use it in their future.

One of the sad things was to see some of these industrial arts programs wiped out and taken away by various former governments. Many people in Truro, for instance, remember when we had a wonderful industrial arts building, and program, and that was taken away. To this day, they say that's such a shame for so many children who were really learning and growing, and using that in their futures.

So, Mr. Speaker, these are some of the things that I've been hearing, and that I've been noticing in the budget, and the Financial Measures (2016) Bill, it doesn't really address the core problems, and it's sad to see because this government did have an opportunity, and I feel that they have blown it on a number of issues that I, in particular, have - I am the critic for these portfolios.

[Page 9944]

One of the things that I'm hearing from as well, and that I noticed through the Budget Estimates and also bills that have been passed through the House - one of them is about the Law Reform Commission. Seventeen of the province's most prominent law firms are unanimous in their thinking that this government's decision to discontinue funding for the Law Reform Commission is a huge mistake. The decision to eliminate funding to this democratic institution is taken straight from the playbook of the Harper Conservatives, Mr. Speaker; a decision that's widely criticized by legal experts. The commission's work is, or was, critical, and the real cost of terminating funding greatly outweighs any perceived financial benefits.

So, when we talk about financial benefits, I would be remiss if I don't talk about income inequality and how this is not really being addressed here with the budget. Nova Scotia has the third highest rate of poverty in Canada - the third highest rate of poverty in Canada, Nova Scotia in 2016, and the highest in Atlantic Canada. Now, I have to say, Mr. Speaker, that while we were in government, when the NDP was in government, you may criticize us for certain things - I criticized us for certain things, and that was my job as a backbencher MLA, to bring up around the caucus table the things that I was not in favour of.

So, one of the things, Mr. Speaker, that I would say we need to talk about here is poverty, and under our government we introduced several measures that in fact reduced poverty in Nova Scotia, by 11,000 families, and it was something like 11 per cent. I was very proud of that because that was one of the things we felt we needed to do and we did do by adding in the Affordable Living Tax Credit and the Poverty Reduction Tax Credit was one of the first things we did. We added in a fifth tax bracket to the richest Nova Scotians, those making I believe over $150,000 and we helped to put that money down towards paying for people who really needed it most.

Mr. Speaker, again I really don't see this government following in our footsteps on that and that's sad. In fact it's not only shameful but poverty is costly. Many people who are poverty activists and even social workers - the Social Workers Association of Canada has a saying that poverty costs because research shows that poverty can be the cause and is the cause of poor health, and poor health, as we know, is expensive.

A 2010 report by the Canadian Council of Policy Alternatives estimated that the health-related cost of poverty in Nova Scotia was $240 million. Good management of our health care resources demands that we develop effective poverty reduction strategies and growing income inequality will be an ongoing challenge unless governments take bold and positive steps to lift people out of poverty. So, Mr. Speaker, to draw from the incomparable Cindy Blackstock, the problem with addressing child poverty in the long term is that children do not live their lives in the long term.

[Page 9945]

Right now across our province thousands of people are living in poverty and mothers and fathers of those children who are living in poverty, are living in poverty, too, and they are in need of urgent support from this government. That's one of the reasons why we have introduced several bills that we thought would help alleviate this problem. One of them is in fact also the $15 minimum wage and the grocery securities Act because as we know, more people are now using food banks. Food bank usage has gone up and the majority of people using food banks are women and children.

One thing I have always said that would be a very good thing for government to do is to help more with the breakfast programs for children. We put some money into it but not enough, Mr. Speaker, and it's left for teachers and parents to scurry around and try and do fundraisers to raise money for their breakfast programs to feed children in the schools.

Also I have to put a shout-out to the Lions Clubs. The Lions Club of Truro, for instance, puts $500 towards breakfast programs of any school that needs it. While I was in government actually I managed to get $500 for each of the schools in my riding and they were from the Lions Club and they were very grateful about that as well. We introduced a new concept of a provincial child breakfast program for schools which was that we were going to put $750,000 into a provincial child breakfast program and it was going to be designed in such a way that communities - businesses or private individuals - were also encouraged to contribute to this fund. Then from the fund the money would go out to all the schools across the province and pay for breakfast for children in Nova Scotia. Sadly, when we lost government, that program and that plan fell by the wayside.

The other thing we did while we were in government was we helped with dental care; we took the age from age nine for children up to age 14 and we had plans to take it up to age 17. As you know, dental care is very expensive and many kids, after they turned nine, weren't getting dental care. Now, because of our work while we were in government, those four short years, children up to the age of 14 have dental care and we were, as I say, going to take it up to 17.

I personally believe in dental care for all ages because I believe this is a health care issue and that your oral health is part of your overall health. In fact it contributes to heart attacks, plaque develops in your veins in the blood and that can also affect people's health and longevity, and heart attacks and things like this can occur because of it, not to mention people's self-esteem, their ability to get jobs. In this day and age when every television ad you turn on, they've all got these bright, shining white teeth, a lot of people are left feeling less-than because their teeth are discoloured or missing, and they don't have the ability to get the dental care they need in order to fix their teeth.

I've seen many women in my riding when I go door to door, for instance, who would really benefit from a program where their dental care was taken care of, because they can't afford it. Many mothers have told me that they've left their own teeth alone and tried to help their children get dental care. These same types of people will put food on the table for their children and go hungry themselves.

[Page 9946]

Mr. Speaker, in this day and age, in 2016, I just don't understand why we can allow this to continue in Nova Scotia when we could be a poster child for the creative economy, for dealing with poverty, for having a progressive education system, and many other things.

We could also be a poster child for the environment. One of the things I'm very sad to see is that the Environment Department is constantly announcing that they're just a regulatory body. I'm getting all kinds of calls and letters from people asking me why the Department of Environment is not helping with various environmental problems around the province. They say, if the Department of Environment is not going to do it, who is?

For instance, residents have contacted me who are constituents in my riding, and they spend time around Mattatall Lake, for instance. They weren't able to use that lake last summer because of very high levels of blue-green algae, which contain potentially harmful neurotoxins. With summer approaching now, the residents are concerned that the lake will be unusable again this year. The minister - the former minister, I guess it was, yes - was kind and was able to give the residents around that area some funds to get researchers from Dalhousie University's Agricultural Campus in Truro to go in there and do research and find out what exactly was happening, why this was occurring.

What they found is that it's because of clear-cutting. Clear-cutting was happening all around the lake. When you clear-cut, all of the soil gets washed away toward the lake and into the rivers and streams during the rain season. It builds up at the mouth of the lake, and it stops the flow of the water, and then these blue-green algae are able to form and take hold. They can become very toxic, as I said, so people were not able to swim in that lake last year, and this year they're looking at the same problem.

They've written to the current Minister of Environment asking for them to please either provide more money for the researchers to find out exactly what needs to be done to stop it, to be able to get work done around the lake, to be able to prevent the buildup of the sediment. They also want to know why all this clear-cutting is going on and why it's being allowed to go on affecting the lakes of Nova Scotia. Again, they were told: we're just a regulatory body, I'm sorry, we can't do anything about your problem.

Well, that's not enough, Mr. Speaker. In this day and age, where climate change is going to be one of the biggest - and is already one of the biggest - issues facing our world - not just our country, not just our province, but the world - I think we need a Department of Environment that actually looks after the environment and that helps people who can point out problems on the ground, in the field, in their regions.

They point out the problems and then they need help to maintain and sustain the health of our rivers, lakes, streams, waterways, and marshes, which brings me then to the Alton Gas fiasco. Here we have a very important river with striped bass, which is an endangered species, and it's the spawning ground - in fact, the last spawning ground in Nova Scotia for the striped bass - and we're going to allow a company from Calgary to come in and pour 9 billion litres of salt brine a day into the river for three years, stopping only 24 days out of the year, which is when they say the spawning takes place. But people say that's not enough. Why are they being allowed to do this? Why take the chance? It's never been done. This company has never done it before, and in fact there's no record of what this will do to the river and to the life in that river, our fish species - and there are fish other than the striped bass.

[Page 9947]

Our First Nations people, our friends, our neighbours, whose traditional land this is, have been fishing that river for 11,000 years at least. They feel that they have not been consulted enough. My First Nation community of Millbrook First Nation and Chief Bob Gloade and Chief Rufus Copage of Sipekne'katik both feel that this is a huge error by this government, and they are not happy. Their concerns were taken to the minister, and she dismissed their appeals, and now they're taking them to the Supreme Court of Canada. I look forward to finding out what will happen there.

But let's just remember when it comes to our First Nations people - and I'm now speaking as the critic for Aboriginal Affairs and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission - that they did not sell their land, they did not rent their land, they did not cede their land to the European settlers. They signed peace and friendship treaties that said, we will allow you to come here and live here on this land with us, beside us. We welcome you, but we need to be consulted about the use of our lands and our waters and our natural resources.

Many, many people in the Aboriginal community do not feel that their concerns are being addressed. Even though the talk is talked, they feel the government is not walking the walk. If the Premier continues to say we are all treaty people, they're here to say, and I'm here to speak for them to say, unfortunately it does not look like we are all treaty people because some people are being treated differently than others. This is their land and their water, and we should be grateful that they have allowed us to be here and live in peace and harmony, supposedly, with them.

This brings me to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has many different items - in fact, they're called Calls for Action. They're not even called requests; they are called Calls to Action that provinces need to make. This province has only addressed one, in education. But there are more that need to be done, and nothing has been said, partly probably because this government is afraid that if they do allow more First Nations to have control over their own lands and water, they won't be able to railroad through projects like Alton Gas, and in fact even Northern Pulp would be in a position where people could sue.

I'm told right now that people on the ground there in Pictou County are already talking about suing the government over the issue of Boat Harbour and Northern Pulp because there were various promises made there that have not been kept. This government has backed away from the things that it promised earlier, and this is not going over well with the people.

[Page 9948]

In fact, one of the things that I've been told is that on the ground there are people who are working on behalf of Northern Pulp who are doing some work for the First Nation people - building a playground, things like this, which is great. It's fantastic. But Mr. Speaker, we also need to address the issue of Boat Harbour and when this is going to happen, when we're going to stop using the effluent going into Boat Harbour so that we can start to clean it up and turn it into the beautiful pristine swimming, fishing, and clamming grounds that it once was.

I was taken on a tour of that whole area by our First Nations friends in Pictou Landing First Nations, and they showed me where they used to have picnics, and where people came from all over the province, First Nations people would gather there to go to the beach, and have picnics, and to swim and clam, and fish for all kinds of things, and now it's toxic. There are big skull and crossbones signs everywhere along the beach. You can't swim there, you can't fish there.

When it was first decided to put that mill there, close to 50 years ago, I have to note that at the time the people that proposed it said - and it's in writing, Mr. Speaker - that this would not affect the people of the area, it would only affect a small band of Indians. That's the wording, a small band of Indians. As if they didn't matter, their concerns didn't matter at all.

Well, I'm here to say their concerns do matter, Mr. Speaker, and in fact, what we now call that type of behaviour is environmental racism, because they put that pulp mill there knowing full well what it would do to the area, right there in the First Nations community, and not even thinking that perhaps that effluent might affect the rest of the water, and affect the Town of Pictou across the harbour, but the broken pipeline that we've seen in the past couple of years proves that the toxicity from that effluent went into the water and they picked it up even over in Pictou.

The people now in Pictou are very concerned as well about their health. I'm hearing from people there saying, why should their children have to have breathing apparatuses and why should they be more inclined to get cancer and lung conditions? Yet, the Minister of Health, and even the Minister of Environment at the time said, there's no immediate danger, no cause for alarm. In fact, a songwriter wrote a song about that called, No Immediate Danger, and Mr. Speaker, if you haven't heard it you should, because it's heartbreaking. When you find out that in fact, this is still going ahead and more is not being done.

The other thing that I'd like to talk about before I end my time, Mr. Speaker, 30 seconds? Oh, well, I would just like to end on this, this is Nova Scotia and this is Canada, and we don't have to accept poverty as a reality and we should be the first jurisdiction in North America to eliminate poverty, starting with our children. Imagine every Nova Scotian kid going to school with enough food in their belly to learn, and imagine what our citizens could achieve if their day to day life was no longer consumed with the bleak reality of poverty. Imagine every senior being able to live in dignity. . .

[Page 9949]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order please. Time allotted for the member's comments has expired.

The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

MS. MARIAN MANCINI « » : Mr. Speaker. Again, it is becoming my own little tradition - I hopefully won't speak too long, I'll be fairly brief in my comments. (Interruption) Yes, I know, that's the only time I get applause from you guys.

Essentially I guess what we are talking about here is the fact that under Section 20 of the Finance Act, the government needs the authority of the Legislature to spend money. We started off with the budget that was presented, and today we are speaking to the Financial Measures (2016) Act, which I assume will allow the bill to become law, and it fulfills that Section 20 of the Finance Act.

So, in dealing with this experience of dealing with a budget - this is pretty well what this sitting was essentially about. That was my understanding of it, that this is a document that is presented and worked on and discussed and examined, because at the end of the day the government is being given a great power to spend this money the way Nova Scotians want that money to be spent. The problem is that what I found in my experience is that this is an incredibly vague and incomprehensible document. As people have alluded, there are two separate Chambers essentially going on simultaneously to a maximum of 40 hours, with members being able to ask questions of ministers, and at the end of the day there was still an incredible amount of confusion about what is really in this document.

I don't know if it's maybe all - I don't have a lot of experience in it. Maybe all governments do that. Maybe it's supposed to be cloaked in ambiguity; maybe it is supposed to be just a piece of political theatre, I don't know. But at the end of the day, I'm not sure. I know some things I can tell my constituents are not in the budget. I can tell them some concerns that I have, but I believe that trying to understand a document that gets completely reconfigured from year to year, with huge amounts of money being transferred into different departments and no explanation or no interim reports being provided to MLAs to assist us in that, is really not productive and somewhat discouraging. It leaves us not completely effective in being able to give the real message to our constituents about what this budget contains, yet by the conclusion of today, it will be the law.

I did take note, and I've mentioned it before, but some basic things concern me. I think it's what we see that the government has placed priorities on - or didn't - that we get a sense to try to ferret out the direction that the government wants to move the province. As MLAs, we need to study those carefully so we can, again, relay that message.

[Page 9950]

I saw with particular concern - and I spoke to it previously and I won't belabour the point - when I saw what happened to the Law Reform Commission and the fact that that money, that $185,000, was cut from a program, from the commission which was doing so much free work, basically - that was concerning to me, because I questioned whether this government understands rule of law. Then with the component that was added into the FMA in relation to the provincial court and the judicial budgets, and they're no longer able to allow an arbitrator to make a final decision, I question whether the government understands judicial independence. Those are very concerning items to me, but I just refer to those and will not go on, because I have in the past referred to them.

Other aspects of the budget, the Disability Support Program for one - you know, when I sort of try to sort out this budget, I compared last year's budget to the current one to try to prepare for estimates. Then on the day of estimates I received an updated document that would have been extremely helpful to me in trying to prepare and understand it. So again, I just point to that - if anything, I wish the government would give some consideration to that. Providing an overview of what the big changes are, and on an interim basis, would be really helpful.

Anyway, with the Disability Support Program, in relation to it, it has been a big issue. It's a big issue in my constituency. There are many constituents who have been involved in a very active way. They are leading activists, really, in relation to the road map and the plan for the disabled and the hope of inventing a new visionary program for them. So I spoke and I received many emails about this and what it meant, what the implications meant for them in the budget.

The comments were very interesting. Somebody described - one constituent said, "small, shaky steps." The amount budgeted in this year is 1 per cent above what was forecasted to have been spent in 2015-16 - $2.2 million will enable 25 people to transition from institutions to community living, but there are 300 people on that list. Three hundred people right now who are in institutions who are able and ready to leave; they've been identified as ready to leave institutions. So 275 people will be left there. Will it help the 1,200 people who are living in inappropriate settings at this time? They're outside of institutions, but they're often with very desperate and over-stretched parents or family members.

I don't know. You know, the comments are that generally there is not a lot of hope for these individuals - $800,000 for adult service centres is very little given that is spread over 29 agencies, and it's the news release and the language in it that is always, you want something to be good, but then when you dig deep it just seems so incorrect. The news release says it will use the money to "identify and create opportunities to increase their revenues and capacity, coaching, and skills development." So is that $800,000 going to be used for staff training? Is it to enhance the abilities of centres to fundraise and set up social enterprises to increase their revenue? We need to note that not all of the people who are leaving facilities will want to participate in these. This is just one piece of community readiness.

[Page 9951]

So for a few people the budgeted funds may open up life-changing opportunities, but for most it will be a grave disappointment. The $800,000 announced by the minister for promoting inclusion community living and day activity programs has to suffice for 29 service agencies in the province. It will be interesting to see how that goes.

The minister's mantra on this is it takes time, like 10 years, and we are going slow to get it right. Well, right now we have 300 identified people ready to leave institutions. Many of those people on that type of timeline are never going to get out of the institution. The 25 may go this year, but there is nothing that I'm aware of to explain what will be the timeline for the remaining 275. I guess what confounds me in this is why it is so difficult for us to recognize and just meet the basic human rights of those in our community who are most vulnerable.

Affordable housing - you know, it has been thrown around this language, or the information regarding the deferred federal contribution. This is my understanding of that, because it has been alluded to as a bunch of money that the previous government sat on and didn't participate, or put forward for affordable housing. I didn't see it that way, at least in what I researched. The deferred federal contribution in the 1990s, the federal Liberal Government under Paul Martin got out of the business of affordable housing. This began a process of the feds sending money to the provinces to cover the remaining leases and mortgages of our public housing spaces. It is my understanding that the previous governments, Liberal and Progressive Conservative Governments, essentially did not do any specific planning with these dollars, it was just business as usual.

When the NDP took power in 2009 it was recognized that these dollars were going to run out eventually, and that long-term planning was needed immediately, and this is what created and led to the Nova Scotia Housing Strategy, which I understand was adopted by the current Liberal Government. The Liberal Government was very outspoken in their criticism that the NDP would be saving this money. They felt that we should just spend it all right away without a plan. In 2013, when the Housing Strategy was released, the deferred federal contribution stood at roughly $50 million. Under this government, the last number that we see is that the deferred federal contribution sits at $64.8 million. The government appears to be sitting on way more than the NDP did, and the problem is that there does not seem to be a plan under the deferred federal contribution. A large portion of our plan was for the Bloomfield centre.

But when we go back and start looking at this budget for affordable housing, we start off, and there's a wait-list of 4,800. Then when we look at the budget for Housing Nova Scotia, it was clear, obvious in the document, that they underspent by $6 million last year. I asked in Question Period, and I essentially didn't get an answer until the second day when the Premier started saying it was rolled over to the next year. But the money that they say has been rolled over is not shown in the year's budget because the Nova Scotia Housing budget has been frozen. You don't have to be a genius to know that when you do not spend $6 million in one year and the budget remains frozen, Housing Nova Scotia has saved $6 million due to inaction on affordable housing. I think it's pretty clear and pretty disappointing.

[Page 9952]

On the issue of income assistance, the Minister of Community Services has said when you're on social assistance you're at your lowest. At estimates, I questioned her on this, and I asked her if having social assistance frozen for two years could bring you even lower. Could having your bus pass cut bring you lower? Could having your local organizations that supported you, who had their funding cut and can no longer support you, could that bring you lower? I do recall at the time that the minister agreed with me on that. Yes, it can bring you lower.

Mr. Speaker, we've heard so much on so many issues since April 19^th in relation to this budget. Many of us have spoken to a doctor shortage. It's clear that the doctor shortage appears to be a result of failing to plan or look ahead when attempting to make changes.

What we hear from the government is that we have a plan, we're going to make an announcement. That's not acceptable. It's not acceptable at this stage of the game. You produce your budget. You must know what you're going to do and let Nova Scotians be aware of that.

It's the same with the transformation program: while you're making your changes, you allow the existing program to diminish, and people are essentially left languishing like they are without a family doctor at this time and like the way people were for two and a half years on social assistance. It seems to be a theme of this government to tell us that they're creating plans, eliminate what was existing already and leave us all, I guess, just to hope something's going to happen.

I think the theme applies with the Film Tax Credit fiasco, the Pharmacare fiasco, the long-term care wait-list disaster in Cape Breton, running between 600 and 1,000 on that list. These are disastrous policies that have affected the marginalized. The theme just seems to be of an uncaring, incompetent government doing damage to people's lives on the very basic things that we count on; that is, our health and our basic quality of life.

If this government is determined to let the private interests stimulate the economy that if it is their view that government intervention is not required, government has no role, what that really means is that it is a government of inaction; it is a government that is lacking in vision. Why not just hire an accounting firm to come in and do it all? You know, maybe PricewaterhouseCoopers could come in because that way the government will not read the report, and they will not mess it up.

[Page 9953]

We have a progressive mayor in HRM, and we have a progressive government federally, but in between we are stuck with this frozen, rigid, inflexible provincial government that is determined (a) not to be transparent, which apparently has been a promise; and (b) will break promises at the drop of a hat and not feel that they are responsible to answering to Nova Scotians for plan B if you are breaking plan A.

Throughout this process we have experienced at least - no, I will say I have experienced, but I suspect there has been some frustration for many people in trying to determine where this government is actually going. What is the direction? What are we supposed to tell our constituents about this document, about what it means for them? I do not think Nova Scotians know at this time. Anything that we do see, and just what I have gone through is suggestive of it not being good news for Nova Scotians.

I guess, you know - I do not know if we will be back here or not or if we are going to be going into a Fall election or what the story will be. If this is it, if this is the best that you have to offer us, then we have no choice but to be extremely critical. I do not like being critical in a vacuum. Tell us something. Give us the real information. Tell us the plan about the doctors; tell us what the transformation is going to look like. Information is really basic, and that is what is lacking in this.

So, with that, I conclude my comments.

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

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I stand to close third reading debate on Bill No. 174.

Again, I want to start first by acknowledging the comments that have been made. I want to thank the members of this Legislature for their comments, for their input, for their feedback on the Financial Measures (2016) Act, Bill No. 174, throughout the process: through second reading; the members of the public who came forward during Law Amendments Committee; comments that were shared during Committee of the Whole House; and here today to conclude debate on third reading of this very important piece of legislation.

In my closing comments of the second reading, I just want to draw the members' attention back to that. I noted that despite many hours of debate; I believe over three days we debated the second reading of this bill, I made note in that second reading closing remarks how there is very little commentary through the many, many hours that we spent here debating Bill No. 174 in second reading on the actual bill.

[Page 9954]

I was hoping that third reading would have resulted in more commentary about this particular bill. The Financial Measures (2016) Bill - there are very few references that have been made. In fact, from the Opposition commentary, like in second reading, there have been comments in support of the food bank tax credit for farmers. The comments that have been made, or the references - brief references that they were - in regard to this piece of the legislation were supportive.

I'd like to acknowledge, Mr. Speaker, that just yesterday my colleague the Minister of Agriculture had a great announcement around this at an event with representatives from both the agriculture sector and from the food banks in Nova Scotia. So I'm left to conclude, with respect to that clause of Bill No. 174, there is unanimous consent in this Legislature and there is unanimous consent amongst the public, those who are impacted by this change.

Additional comments: there were some passing references throughout debate - very passing - acknowledging reference to the changes to the Provincial Court Act around what we are introducing as a governance change to ensure that the government which is fiscally responsible for the finances of the Province of Nova Scotia - that we have that safety net in place. That is what that change is about.

To the member from the NDP who questioned whether this government understood the role and the importance and the significance of judicial independence, Mr. Speaker, I stand here to tell that member and all Nova Scotians, through you, that we most certainly do understand, respect, and value judicial independence.

I stand here also to let that member, all members of this Legislature, and indeed, all Nova Scotians know that we also value and take very seriously our responsibility to the fiscal capacity, the fiscal management, on behalf of all Nova Scotians. That is what our responsibility is.

In the current form, there is no oversight. There is no safety net to the provisions of an independent third party providing a recommendation to the Government of Nova Scotia with respect to judicial compensation.

The change that is brought in in Bill No 174 in the Financial Measures (2016) Act, the change in that Act really only addresses the safety net. This isn't a question about what has been done in the past. It is about the risk that exists that a tribunal may submit, under current rules - before we pass the amendments, the changes here - they could pass a recommendation that is not sustainable, that is not affordable, that is not in the best interests of the finances of the Province of Nova Scotia, and there is no safety net.

The people of Nova Scotia, the taxpayers of Nova Scotia, would have to bear that. So the change that we make is simply a change that ensures that the financial decision rests with the Party, with that branch of government that is responsible for the public finances. It simply removes the binding recommendation.

[Page 9955]

Indeed, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to table a document here. This is an opinion piece published in The Chronicle Herald on May 5, 2016. It's an opinion piece by Dennis James, who is the vice-president of the Canadian Bar Association of Nova Scotia, "Having an arms-length body recommend appropriate compensation has proven to be an important safeguard over the separation of the roles and the independence of the judiciary."

With these changes, we maintain an arm's-length body, a tribunal. Thus we continue to adhere to that provision. It continues as it has in the past, and you will note (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board has the floor.

MR. DELOREY « » : So as I was saying, my point here, Mr. Speaker « » :Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board has the floor.

MR. DELOREY « » : As I was saying, the members opposite - I don't believe it got picked up on Hansard - have suggested that I've somehow twisted the words of the vice-president of the Bar Association. Indeed I have not.

I submit to the members of this Legislature that that individual knows and chose his words very carefully. The word that was absent in his commentary, Mr. Speaker, is "binding." The word that was absent was "binding." That is what we are changing, and it was not the provision that was being asked for. It was deemed to be the successful party. It is the arm's-length recommendation that was acknowledged to be the provision that maintains judicial independence. That provision still maintains its place in the Provincial Court Act with respect to judicial compensation.

So, as I indicated on that, I submit to the Legislature, to members, to my colleagues, that our change here does two things. It respects our fiscal capacity and our role to have a safety net and final oversight over decisions with respect to how we spend public finances. Simultaneously, it respects the judicial independence of this process as do other jurisdictions; the vast majority of jurisdictions in this country have provisions that are similar to those we are putting in place.

In addition, there is a brief commentary about the capital investment tax credit from a member of the Opposition, but again, it was a comment in passing; it wasn't about the actual change. A little bit about process was all that the comments were. I remain unsure as to whether the Opposition member who brought it up or the Parties themselves are in support or not of that particular change. I'm not sure if the member for Pictou East thinks it's a bad idea to put a cap on our tax credits to ensure that we have some oversight, to ensure that when these provisions and these projects come forward we have the capacity to pay. He hasn't spoken to that, Mr. Speaker, so I have to assume that that member for Pictou East is not interested in strong fiscal management and oversight on behalf of the people of Nova Scotia and the people of Pictou East.

[Page 9956]

Those are generally the only comments that have come from the members opposite, from my recollection as I've been listening as I reviewed commentary specifically about Bill No. 174. But there have been some other comments that have been made, that have come up. Again, I do want to clarify as I clarified or I thought I had in my closing remarks for Bill No. 174 in second reading. I'll reiterate them again here because it came up a little bit yesterday with members of the Official Opposition, and again it was specifically referenced today by a member from the NDP.

I believe specifically the member from the NDP noted that Section 20 of the financial act, the budget process, does require approval of the House for the appropriations to go through and be approved. A member from the Official Opposition raised similar commentary at the start of their comments yesterday. I submit to those members, and indeed for the benefit of all Nova Scotians who may be watching, that we actually passed the Appropriations Bill, Bill No. 181, on May 6^th. That provision and authority has already been granted.

So while the vast majority of commentary throughout second and third reading of Bill No. 174, the Financial Measures (2016) Act, as I've already noted in my closing remarks for both second and now third reading debate, the vast majority of commentary seemed to really be focused on the broad budget context and not on this bill at all.

Again, from a procedural perspective, I want to highlight the fact that the appropriations have already been done. If the commentary from the Opposition Parties and members - if their concern is about what the budget contains, when I conclude comments and debate here on third reading comes to a close, I do hope and I ask all of the members to think about how they're going to vote on the Financial Measures (2016) Bill, and to think about what's in this bill before they cast their ballot, as their commentary has not actually opposed the measures that are in this bill.

So I suspect we can expect to see unanimous support of the Financial Measures (2016) Bill. I would hope that the members in this Legislature are not going to choose how they vote on this particular piece of legislation based upon their disagreement with Bill No. 181 that passed on May 6^th of this year. So I do hope that members take the time to consider their vote and vote here.

So a couple of items that came up here - and I will speak briefly (Interruptions)

[Page 9957]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board has the floor.

MR. DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I will make a couple of comments since the members of the Legislature have really focused their attention and time on things outside of this bill. So since those issues are of particular concern I'll make reference to a few of them. Some things that I've heard from the Opposition, one thing from yesterday when we started this debate was a reference to essentially doubling - more than doubling - the Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal budget to $1 billion because there would be a number of things that could be done.

The comments then went on to show what could be done if we increase the budget to $1 billion for Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, but that same member in earlier comments made reference to the fact that they did not want to live in the highest taxed jurisdiction in the Province of Nova Scotia. So the first question that would have to be asked is, how could we increase the budget for Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal to $1 billion? It would have to come from somewhere - it can't come from taxes, so that means we have to find it from somewhere else.

I would have to ask the members of the Opposition, where would they like us to aspirationally achieve a $1 billion Transportation and Infrastructure budget? Would the Opposition like us to cut the $6 million we've committed to bringing high-speed Internet to more businesses and homes across Nova Scotia? (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. Order, please. I'm going to respectfully ask both Opposition Parties to let the minister speak and we'll get on with it.

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board has the floor.

MR. DELOREY « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, again, where else would they like us to turn to for that money? Would they like us to turn to the nearly $3 million we've committed to the development of our aquaculture industry in Nova Scotia? At a time when we're seeing high demand throughout the world for our aquaculture products, they want to see us stifle the growth of that industry. I don't think so. Do they want us to cut the $10 million film tax program? I don't think so. That's something that we've committed to (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board has the floor.

MR. DELOREY « » : Or perhaps our honourable colleagues, particularly from the NDP caucus would like us to cut the $65 million we're committing to education. Thus far, Mr. Speaker, as of our 2016-17 budget from when we've come into office, $58.8 million more committed to education in Nova Scotia - well on pace to achieving our commitment of $65 million back to the education program.

[Page 9958]

What does this investment in education mean, Mr. Speaker? We see upwards of 500 new teachers in our system when this budget goes through and is implemented. We see about 73 new math mentors and we see 65 new Reading Recovery teachers. We see $22.6 million invested to reduce class sizes in our elementary schools. We continue to see our commitments to education, to the youth of this province because that member for the NDP wanted to know the vision we have. Our vision is for the future of this province, a great future, a strong future for this province and that future is built together and we rely on our youth, on our children, on the next generation so we're investing in them in this budget.

Mr. Speaker, I also want to acknowledge again the work and the provisions that we have here in Bill No. 174 but before I make those final comments, one other major theme I think that came from the Opposition members was questioning a general assumption or input that has gone into the calculations, particularly on the revenue side, that would be the yield rate, where that comes from and the commitment around that.

Mr. Speaker, they talked and the comments often throughout the debate on this bill have been we're expecting to take more tax money from Nova Scotians who can't afford it, that somehow they were alluding to a tax increase. But we all know that our tax revenue would increase if we have more people working, that would be more people paying taxes if those individuals who are working are making more money. I think we can all agree that that would result in a higher tax yield revenue for the Province of Nova Scotia.

I have some data here that I can share with the members, Mr. Speaker. Most recent data here from Stats Canada, we have the survey of employment payroll hours, the national monthly gathering of labour data from employer payroll tax filings show the average weekly earnings in February nationally were up just 0.4 per cent from a year earlier. But that also notes that the country's strongest wage growth was in Nova Scotia, up 2.5 per cent from 2015 to 2016.

Indeed, Mr. Speaker, while the pessimistic members of the Opposition Parties think that Nova Scotia is somehow not able to keep up with the rest of the country, I submit, as I just have, that we are seeing the growth, that indeed the fundamental information that we have that went into our estimates, which I've previously advised this House, have actually gone through a review by industry experts and academics, to assess the reasonableness of our estimates and they all have agreed that our estimates and our assumptions were reasonable, going into budget 2016-17.

I've just noted and tabled the documents that shows the 2.5 per cent wage growth but indeed, Mr. Speaker, it's not just our average weekly earnings that have gone up but we also have overall employment. Overall employment in Nova Scotia in April 2016 has increased by 1.2 per cent over April 2015. Our employment is up, our weekly earnings are up and our unemployment is down. Our unemployment fell by 0.8 percentage points from a year ago, down from 9.1 per cent to 8.3 per cent in April 2016.

[Page 9959]

Mr. Speaker, while the Opposition question the assumptions, the assumptions with respect to our revenue forecast on tax revenue, I've just submitted provisions that show again both increased labour participation, at 1.2 per cent, and increased weekly earnings, wages up 2.5 per cent year over year.

Mr. Speaker, I'd also like to highlight within that information another very important part because our focus on our youth and our vision, I want to highlight that indeed our efforts and our decisions, our vision, which we brought into government two years ago, is actually working. We're seeing the unemployment rate in youth, that is youth 15 to 24 years, that unemployment rate dropped by 3 percentage points just between March and April. Our labour force for youth, 15- to 24-year-olds is up. We're seeing more youth staying in Nova Scotia, working in Nova Scotia, which provides more focus and support for our vision and the estimates that we have.

So, in conclusion, Mr. Speaker, back to specifics of Bill No. 174, I've heard no commentary from the members that would oppose what's in this bill. I hope that they're willing to step forward and vote on the contents of the bill, because I do believe voting against Bill No. 174, the Financial Measures (2016) Act, is a vote against strong fiscal governance. A vote against this bill is a vote against increasing healthy food access to food banks in the Province of Nova Scotia. A vote against this bill is a vote against . . .

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

MR. DELOREY « » : A vote against this bill is a vote against a healthy initiative like the increase of tax on tobacco. So, Mr. Speaker, again, no commentary throughout debate since first reading that I've heard from any members opposed to this bill. So I look forward to unanimous support.

With that, I close my comments and look forward to the vote. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for third reading of Bill No. 174.

There are calls for a recorded vote.

We will ring the bells until the Whips are satisfied.

[1:27 p.m.]

[Page 9960]

[The Division bells were rung.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please.

If the Whips are satisfied, we'll proceed with third reading of Bill No. 174.

I will remind everybody, when your name is called, to please stand tall and state a simple Yea or Nay and for all members to remain silent until the vote is completed.

[The Clerk calls the roll.]

[1:34 p.m.]

YEAS	NAYS
Mr. Churchill	Mr. MacLeod
Ms. Regan	Mr. Dunn
Mr. Samson	Mr. Baillie
Mr. McNeil	Mr. d'Entremont
Ms. Whalen	Mr. David Wilson
Mr. Glavine	Ms. Mancini
Mr. Delorey	Ms. Zann
Ms. Casey	Mr. Belliveau
Mr. MacLellan	Mr. Orrell
Mr. Colwell	Ms. MacFarlane
Mr. Horne	Mr. Houston
Mr. Stroink	Mr. MacMaster
Ms. Miller	Mr. Harrison
Mr. Hines	Mr. Lohr
Ms. Diab
Mr. Ince
Mr. Kousoulis
Mr. Furey
Mr. Farrell
Ms. Arab
Mr. Maguire
Mr. Porter
Mr. Jessome
Ms. Lohnes-Croft
Ms. Eyking
Mr. Irving
Mr. Gough
Ms. Treen
Mr. Wilton
Mr. Rankin
Mr. Gordon Wilson
Mr. Mombourquette

[Page 9961]

THE CLERK » : For, 32. Against, 14.

MR. SPEAKER « » : 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 the order of business, Private Members' Public Bills for Second Reading.

PRIVATE MEMBERS' PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING

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

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 153.

Bill No. 153 - Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Appreciation Act.

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

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, very briefly, on behalf of the government caucus, we will be voting in favour of this bill proceeding beyond the second reading phase today.

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

MS. KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to stand here, and very humbled to have this bill acknowledged to pass second reading. I want to thank everyone who did have any opportunity to speak and to everyone in here who realizes just - we all know in the last week that the Canadian Coast Guard was called in Cape Breton for a tragic accident, and I think we all realize the value of honouring these men and women who are part of the auxiliary in the Maritimes.

In all of our constituencies, there is someone who is part of it, and we are surrounded by water, and it is really an opportunity to say thank you. So, I personally, to everyone in here, just want to say thank you so much. My heart is beating right now because I honestly did not expect this. So, please know how much I am appreciative of this.

[Page 9962]

So, on that note, I will close second reading. Thank you very much. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 153. 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 Law Amendments.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. MICHEL SAMSON « » : Mr. Speaker, that concludes the government's business for this session.

It is my understanding this His Honour will be arriving here at the Legislature for 2:45 p.m. I would ask that the House recess until such time as His Honour arrives.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The House will now stand recessed until 2:45 p.m.

[1:40 p.m. The House recessed.]

[2:52 p.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : Order, please.

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: His Honour the Lieutenant Governor is without.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Let His Honour the Lieutenant Governor be admitted.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.

The Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable J.J. Grant, preceded by his Private Secretary and by Mr. David Fraser, Sergeant-at-Arms, bearing the Mace, entered the House of Assembly Chamber. The Lieutenant Governor then took his seat on the Throne.

The Sergeant-at-Arms then departed and re-entered the Chamber, followed by the Speaker, the Honourable Kevin Murphy; the Chief Clerk of the House, Neil Ferguson; and the Assistant Clerks, Annette Boucher and Nicole Arsenault.

The Speaker, with the Clerk and Assistant Clerk on his left and the Sergeant-at-Arms and Assistant Clerk on his right, took up his position at the foot of the Table of the House.]

[Page 9963]

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: It is the wish of His Honour the Lieutenant Governor that the ladies and gentlemen be seated.

MR. SPEAKER « » : May it please Your Honour, the General Assembly of the Province has, in its present session, passed certain bills to which, in the name and on behalf of the General Assembly, I respectfully request Your Honour's Assent.

THE ASSISTANT CLERK « » :

Bill No. 149 - Mineral Resources Act.

Bill No. 152 - Municipal Government Act and Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

Bill No. 154 - Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

Bill. No 156 - Public Archives Act.

Bill No. 157 - Government Records Act.

Bill No. 158 - Securities Act.

Bill No. 160 - Blueberry Associations Act.

Bill No. 161 - Service Dog Act.

Bill No. 162 - Elections Act.

Bill No. 165 - Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Bill No. 168 - Labour Standards Code.

Bill No. 171 - Art Gallery of Nova Scotia Act.

Bill No. 174 - Financial Measures (2016) Act.

Bill No. 176 - Otter Lake Landfill Act.

Bill No. 177 - Municipal Government Act and Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

[Page 9964]

Bill No. 187 - House of Assembly Act.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR:

In Her Majesty's name, I Assent to these bills.

MR. SPEAKER « » : Your Honour, having been graciously pleased to give your Assent to the Bills passed during the present Session, it becomes my agreeable duty on behalf of Her Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects, her faithful Commons of Nova Scotia, to present to Your Honour a Bill for the Appropriation of Supply granted in the present Session for the support of the Public Service and to request your Honour's Assent thereto.

THE CLERK « » :

Bill No. 181 - Appropriations Act, 2016.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR:

In Her Majesty's name, I thank Her loyal subjects, I accept their benevolence, and I Assent to this Bill.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[The Lieutenant Governor left the Chamber.]

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: His Honour, the Speaker.

[The Speaker took the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER « » : I would ask the members to please rise and join me in the singing of our national anthem.

[The national anthem was sung by the members.]

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

The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, before we adjourn this session, on behalf of all of us, I'd like to acknowledge the tremendous support that we, as members of the Legislature, received throughout this session, from the staff at your office, Mr. Speaker, to the House operations being led by Peter and Mike, the Chief Clerk, and the Assistant Clerks.

[Page 9965]

Thank you for the work you have done on behalf of all of us: Legislative Counsel and the office; the Pages; Legislative TV; Hansard; the Legislative Library; the Committees Office; our shiny spanking-new Sergeant-at-Arms; the Halifax Regional Police; the Commissionaires; and of course all of our caucus support who provide the support to all members of this House so that we can function and perform the duties that each of us have been asked to do at being elected.

I'd also like to acknowledge and recognize this being the new session of the new Leader of the New Democratic Party, who has put his own stamp on his Party during this session.

As well, on behalf of all of us, I want to wish each of you a great summer. Hopefully you'll get a chance to spend some time with your families. Hopefully we'll get a chance to participate in a by-election at some point during that period of time, maybe, or in the Fall, but at the very least we know for sure that we'll see each other again in the Fall.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the members of the House of Assembly, I move that this General Assembly be adjourned, to meet again at the call of the Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House now adjourn to meet again at the call of the Speaker.

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

The motion is carried.

The House now stands adjourned.

[The House rose at 3:04 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 9966]

(Tabled May 19, 2016)

RESOLUTION NO. 4203

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Sea Cadet Corps conducted a Spring cleanup of the town's Water Street; and

Whereas the Corps has been conducting this cleanup annually since 2009; and

Whereas the Sea Cadets program, for ages 12 to 18, aims to teach leadership, physical fitness, and citizenship;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize and thank the Yarmouth Sea Cadet Corps for taking this initiative and dedicating their time to make their community a better place.

RESOLUTION NO. 4204

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas Paul Doucet and Dave MacDougall of Yarmouth have won the Provincial and Maritime Stick Curling Championships; and

Whereas stick curling is a sport growing steadily in popularity; and

Whereas Paul and Dave competed against teams throughout the Maritime Provinces;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Paul Doucet and Dave MacDougall on their championship season, and wish them continuing success in the sport of stick curling.

RESOLUTION NO. 4205

[Page 9967]

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas YouTube's Big James Morning Show recently compiled a list of The Ten Best Places to Eat in Canada; and

Whereas Yarmouth's Jake's Diner Pizzeria & Deli made the list of The Ten Best Places to Eat in Canada; and

Whereas Jake's Diner is owned and operated by Joe and Lisa Habib, who are famous not only for their unrivalled donairs but for their huge smiles and friendly hospitality, and their constant giving back to the community;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize Joey and Lisa Habib, and their staff at Jake's Diner, for making the list of The Ten Best Places to Eat in Canada and wish them much continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4206

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants and District Chamber of Commerce has recently provided business people in East Hants with Dollars and Sense: Financial Management Basics for Your Business; and

Whereas this course teaches how to (a) understand what the government wants and provide it quicker and easier; (b) get to know your finances better so you can concentrate on growing your business; (c) take stock of your business and tweak it to make greater profits; (d) protect yourself from government rules and regulations; and (e) comply and prosper - break through the red tape and make it work for you; and

Whereas Patty Smith successfully completed this course in March 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Patty on receiving her certificate for this course and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4207

[Page 9968]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas the late Peter Conrod was a caring, funny, and much-loved father, grandfather, and community leader, and the owner of Peter S. Conrod Construction Ltd.; and

Whereas Pete was known for his compassion and generosity in his community; and

Whereas his children, Ricky, Darren, Sandra, and Nelson, will always honour their father by carrying forward all his lessons and values;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Peter Conrod for his lifelong dedication to his family, community, and the Province of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 4208

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Saint Mary's University has a proud tradition of conferring honorary degrees upon individuals whose accomplishments are consistent with the university's scholarly mission; and

Whereas Mr. Bassam Nahas is one of six distinguished leaders to receive an honorary degree from Saint Mary's University on May 18, 2015, being the recipient of a Doctor of Commerce, Honoris Causa; and

Whereas Mr. Nahas is a successful entrepreneur who has helped grow Halifax through development and employment, and lives by the principle that we learn by doing and we teach by sharing;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Bassam Nahas on receiving a Doctor of Commerce, Honoris Causa, from Saint Mary's University and wish him continued success in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 4209

[Page 9969]

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Donna Muller of Shad Bay is a prolific artist and entrepreneur who took her first oil painting class in 1988, and she has continued to learn and paint over the years; and

Whereas Donna and her husband, Gerald, moved to Nova Scotia in 2007 from Saskatchewan to their home on the edge of Shad Bay, which soon became too small to house all of Donna's paintings; and

Whereas in 2015, Donna opened her new studio and guest cottage, which was finished and had its grand opening for the Peggy's Cove Festival of the Arts, Studio Rally 2015;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Donna on her successes, and wish her well in her future artistic and economic endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4210

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Payton Angus of Timberlea won the gold medal in the girls novice division at the Nova Scotia Provincial Gymnastics Championships on April 2, 2016, in Dartmouth; and

Whereas Payton placed first against 11 competitors; and

Whereas Payton will be representing Nova Scotia in Quebec City, in May, at the Eastern Canadian Championships;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Payton on her success to date and wish her well in the championships in May.

RESOLUTION NO. 4211

[Page 9970]

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Landworks Gulls, 19 hard-working young men, four of whom reside in the Timberlea-Prospect area: captain and forward, Ian Watt; goalie, Gavin McGinn; and forwards, Mitchell Macleod and Aaron Brown; and

Whereas the team competed in the 12-team, province-wide league, and the Gulls finished their 33-game regular season in second place with a record of 26 wins, 5 losses, and 2 losses in shootouts; and Ian Watt ended the season placing in first place for assists and third overall for most points; and

Whereas the Landworks Gulls went on to win the NSMBHL provincial title, they advanced to represent Nova Scotia at the Atlantic Provinces Bantam AAA Championship where they won the bronze medal; Ian Watt was named as a game MVP and received the top forward award for the tournament; and Gavin McGinn received a game MVP for his play during the bronze medal game;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Landworks Gulls for a great season and wish them all the best for the future, both on and off the ice.

RESOLUTION NO. 4212

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Esme Lee Archer-Roussel, an 18-year-old Grade 12 student from Prospect, Nova Scotia, who is passionate about the environment, social justice, and global citizenship; and

Whereas Esme was selected to be a part of the Voice of Women for Peace Canada's delegation to the 60^th session of the United Nations Commission for the Status of Women (UNCSW60) From March 14^th to 24^th, 2016, in New York; and

Whereas Esme put together the team that was selected as the Canadian delegation to the J7 Youth Summit held from April 22^nd to 28^th in Ise Shima, Japan, which was an opportunity for the youth delegations from each of the G7 nations to meet in advance of the G7 Summit to dialogue, exchange ideas, and shape recommendations for the future of the environment, economy, and other important topics for our societies;

[Page 9971]

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Esme for her leadership in being part of these important larger conversations, and wish her well in all of her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4213

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Five Island Lake Estates (FILE) Homeowners Association is a non-profit organization that serves to promote the safety, welfare, and interests of the community; and

Whereas the FILE Homeowners Association develops, maintains, and improves the community trails and parklands, sponsors community activities such as the Spring Clean Up, Holiday Bonfire, food drives, Hallowe'en, open houses, and ice cream socials; and

Whereas homeowner associations do so much to make a community welcoming and inclusive, from holding physical events to connecting neighbours through social media to ensuring that all residents have a way to be involved in community life;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in thanking the volunteer board of directors for FILE and wish them well in all future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4214

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Norris family of Hatchet Lake are dedicated to providing opportunities for their children to excel at sports that they love, and parents Delisca and Jeff often find themselves going in different directions in order to get their children to the right rink, stadium, or pitch to participate in the sport of the season; and

Whereas TJ Norris has played high-level hockey for many years and has been on teams that have won provincials and have travelled to many provinces, as well as Boston and New Hampshire, for tournaments; and

[Page 9972]

Whereas this summer will be TJ's third summer playing on the Team N.S. Provincial Lacrosse Team, and during summer 2014 he travelled to British Columbia to compete in Nationals and in summer 2015 he was named captain of his team and travelled to Ontario for Nationals;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in applauding TJ for his athletic skill and recognize the quiet work of the parents who ensure their children have everything they need to excel - parents who are dedicated fans, chauffeurs, coaches, managers, and fundraisers - and do it for the love of their children and the love of the game.

RESOLUTION NO. 4215

By: Mr. Iain Rankin « » (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas 15-year-old Emily Muse of Brookside is a young athlete with a lot of heart who was nominated by Lacrosse NS for Female Athlete of the Year because of her leadership on the floor and as a team player; and

Whereas Emily was one of the assistant captains of the 2015 NS Provincial Bantam Girls Lacrosse Team and got two of the six goals that Team NS got at Nationals; although she did not win Female Athlete of the Year, Emily and her family were honoured to have been nominated; and

Whereas in league play at home in NS, Emily was captain of her Bantam Storm team and brought their very new team to first place in the playoffs, to the surprise of everyone;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Emily on her leadership, teamwork, and good sportsmanship, and wish her well in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 4216

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

[Page 9973]

Whereas Jasmine Sebastian is a Grade 11 student at Breton Education Centre; and

Whereas Jasmine was awarded the Lieutenant Governor's Education Medal; and

Whereas this medal is awarded to students who demonstrate academic performance, community leadership, and service;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jasmine Sebastian on receiving the 2016 Lieutenant Governor's medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 4217

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Jarrett Miller is a Grade 11 student at Breton Education Centre; and

Whereas Jarrett was awarded the Lieutenant Governor's Education Medal; and

Whereas this medal is awarded to students who demonstrate academic performance, community leadership, and service;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jarrett Miller on receiving the 2016 Lieutenant Governor's medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 4218

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and Country Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas Charlene Doucette was inducted as Runner; and

Whereas Charlene is competitive runner and running coach, organizes running events, and has competed four times in the Boston Marathon;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Charlene Doucette on her induction to the Sports Hall of Fame and wish her continuing success in the sport of running.

[Page 9974]

RESOLUTION NO. 4219

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas George Purdy was inducted as a builder/athlete; and

Whereas George was shortstop and third base in the 1970s for the Yarmouth Gateways during their three-year run as Nova Scotia senior league champions, participated in 17 national old-timers championships, and was an umpire for many provincial championship tournaments;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate George Purdy on his induction into the Sports Hall of Fame and recognize him for his excellence as an athlete and ambassador in the sport of baseball.

RESOLUTION NO. 4220

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas Rick Doucette was inducted for bodybuilding; and

Whereas Rick has achieved first- or second-place showings in various competitions, and at age 40, more than 15 years after his last event, he placed second in the masters division at provincials and six years later in 2015, he was provincial masters champion;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Rick Doucette on his induction into the Sports Hall of Fame and wish him continuing success in his competitions at the masters level in bodybuilding.

[Page 9975]

RESOLUTION NO. 4221

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas Chris Mackenzie was inducted as a triathlete and runner; and

Whereas Chris has almost 30 years of success and top-place finishes in various events at the local, provincial, and Atlantic levels, competed in two Ironman events in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, and was named Yarmouth County's male athlete of the year in 2005;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Chris Mackenzie on his induction into the Sports Hall of Fame and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4222

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas the late Janet Smith was inducted as a builder; and

Whereas Janet had great success as a cross-country and track athlete; coached volleyball, basketball, cross-country, and track and field; and was passionate about soccer both as a high school and rep team coach and as a found member of the Yarmouth Clippers Soccer Club;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly recognize the late and beloved Janet Smith on her induction into the Yarmouth Town and Country Sports Hall of Fame and thank her for her tremendous and lasting contributions to the Yarmouth sports community.

[Page 9976]

RESOLUTION NO. 4223

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas Derek Goodwin was inducted for his excellence in cycling; and

Whereas Derek was nationally ranked in the sport of cycling by age 16, was selected to compete for Nova Scotia at the Canada Games, was a member of the Nova Scotia team that won silver at the Canadian Nationals in 1989, was selected to the Canadian national junior team, was a Nova Scotia junior road race champion, and won bronze at the Tour de Abitibi in Quebec;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Derek Goodwin on his induction into the Sports Hall of Fame for his impressive achievements in the sport of cycling.

RESOLUTION NO. 4224

By: Hon. Zach Churchill « » (Municipal Affairs)

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

Whereas the Yarmouth Town and County Sports Heritage Association celebrated its 19^th Annual Hall of Fame Ceremony; and

Whereas Joseph Calvin Kent was inducted for basketball and baseball; and

Whereas Cal started playing both sports in Yarmouth, including midget baseball and high school basketball, then went on to excel at both while in the military and was a member of a Maritime junior basketball championship squad while he lived in New Brunswick - a team that was honoured in 2013 with a place on Moncton's Sports Wall of Fame;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Joseph Calvin Kent on his induction into the Sports Hall of Fame for his excellence in the sports of basketball and baseball.

[Page 9977]

RESOLUTION NO. 4225

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 the Royal Canadian Legion has established a time-honoured system for showing appreciation to members who dedicate their time and service to the branch and for outstanding service beyond the call of duty; and

Whereas since receiving his Meritorious Service Medal in 2006, Comrade Marvin Lantz has continued volunteering his time, knowledge, and expertise at the Windsor Royal Canadian Legion Brach 009; and

Whereas whether he's supervising the distribution of wreaths and crosses prior to Remembrance Day, chairing the Poppy Committee, or organizing bingos and other fundraisers, Marvin's dedication is evident from the countless hours spent at the Windsor Legion;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Marvin for his dedication and commitment to being a lifelong volunteer and congratulate him on receiving the Palm Leaf on May 15, 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 4226

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 the Royal Canadian Legion has established a time-honoured system for showing appreciation to members who dedicate their time and service to the branch and for outstanding service beyond the call of duty; and

Whereas Roscoe Schofield has been a dedicated member of the Windsor Royal Canadian Legion Brach 009 since 1997 and started serving on the executive in 2002; and

Whereas as a carpenter by trade, Roscoe has volunteered his expertise with many renovations and enhancements over the years, and assists with the monthly breakfasts, bingos, and the weekly Chase the Ace fundraiser;

[Page 9978]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Roscoe for his dedication and commitment to being a lifelong volunteer and congratulate him on receiving the Life Membership Award on May 15, 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 4227

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 the Royal Canadian Legion has established a time-honoured system for showing appreciation to members who dedicate their time and service to the branch and for outstanding service beyond the call of duty; and

Whereas Carol Clayton-Smithson has been a member of the Windsor Royal Canadian Legion Brach 009 since 1990 and spent several of those years on various committees and the executive; and

Whereas, along with her dedication to the Windsor Legion, Carol is also involved with the Friends of Dykeland, the Juniper Grove Church Sunday School, and the local Sea Cadet Corps, and has assisted the Falmouth and Avonport Brownie Pack with the camps as a cook, first aider, and canoe instructor;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Carol for her dedication and commitment to being a lifelong volunteer and congratulate her on receiving the Life Membership Award on May 15, 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 4228

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 the Royal Canadian Legion has established a time-honoured system for showing appreciation to members who dedicate their time in service to the branch and for outstanding service beyond the call of duty; and

Whereas Sandra Houston has been a dedicated legion member of the Windsor Royal Canadian Legion Brach 009 for 26 years where she has been an active volunteer assisting with various functions; and

[Page 9979]

Whereas often behind the scenes, Sandra can be found helping out at banquets and funeral receptions, as well as the Seniors Safety Luncheon, Relay for Life, Red Hatters, and many other fabulous organizations;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Sandra for her dedication and commitment to being a lifelong volunteer and congratulate her on receiving the Volunteer of the Year Award on May 15, 2016.

RESOLUTION NO. 4229

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Maribelle Abou-Khalil, Annabella Anjoul, Savannah Asaff, Simon Atie, Milan Bassil, Bryana Bou-Nassif, Celine Hoyeck, Nicholas Jarmash, Michael Kabalen, Sandy Kodaysi, Georgy Kreidi, Mia Makhlouf, Christopher Maskine, John Metlej, Christian Rahme, Anthony Ramia, and Sophie Tarabay celebrated their First Communion on May 7^th, 2016; and

Whereas Mr. Zakhour Faddoul has dedicated many hours to teaching these youth about their Maronite Catholic Faith and the importance of accepting the bread and wine as the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, the sacrament that builds the church into the Body of Christ; and

Whereas Zakhour has volunteered for the Our Lady of Lebanon Parish Religious Education program as a catechist for many years;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Zakhour Faddoul for his commitment and many years of service as a catechist at Our Lady of Lebanon Parish and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4230

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Maribelle Abou-Khalil, Annabella Anjoul, Savannah Asaff, Simon Atie, Milan Bassil, Bryana Bou-Nassif, Celine Hoyeck, Nicholas Jarmash, Michael Kabalen, Sandy Kodaysi, Georgy Kreidi, Mia Makhlouf, Christopher Maskine, John Metlej, Christian Rahme, Anthony Ramia, and Sophie Tarabay celebrated their First Communion on May 7^th, 2016; and

[Page 9980]

Whereas Mrs. Mona Francis has dedicated many hours to teaching these youth about their Maronite Catholic Faith and the importance of accepting the bread and wine as the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, the sacrament that builds the church into the Body of Christ; and

Whereas Mona has volunteered for the Our Lady of Lebanon Parish Religious Education program as a catechist for many years;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate Mrs. Mona Francis for her commitment and many years of service as a catechist at Our Lady of Lebanon Parish and wish her continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4231

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's Play On!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th to June 19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas Play On! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skill levels, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Patrick Villeneuve is participating in the 2016 Play On! Tournament with his friends from the community: Will Brown, Ryan Hickey, Joshua Hutt, Michael Makropoulos, Callum Milne, and Tyler Powell;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Patrick Villeneuve and his friends on participating on the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada Play On! Tournament and wish them the best of luck in their games.

RESOLUTION NO. 4232

[Page 9981]

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's Play On!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th to June 19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas Play On! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skill levels, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Tyler Powell is participating in the 2016 Play On! Tournament with his friends from the community: Will Brown, Ryan Hickey, Joshua Hutt, Michael Makropoulos, Callum Milne, Patrick Villeneuve; and

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tyler Powell and his friends on participating on the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada Play On! Tournament and wish them the best of luck in their games.

RESOLUTION NO. 4233

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's Play On!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th to June 19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas Play On! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skill levels, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Callum Milne is participating in the 2016 Play On! Tournament with his friends from the community: Will Brown, Ryan Hickey, Joshua Hutt, Michael Makropoulos, Tyler Powell, Patrick Villeneuve; and

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Callum Milne and his friends on participating on the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada Play On! Tournament and wish them the best of luck in their games.

[Page 9982]

RESOLUTION NO. 4234

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's Play On!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th to June 19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas Play On! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skill levels, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Michael Makropoulos is participating in the 2016 Play On! Tournament with his friends from the community: Will Brown, Ryan Hickey, Joshua Hutt, Callum Milne, Tyler Powell, Patrick Villeneuve; and

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Michael Makropoulos and his friends on participating on the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada Play On! Tournament and wish them the best of luck in their games.

RESOLUTION NO. 4235

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's PLAY ON!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th-19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas PLAY ON! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skills, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Joshua Hutt is participating in the 2016 PLAY ON! tournament with his friends from the community: Will Brown, Ryan Hickey, Michael Makropoulous, Callum Milne, Tyler Powell, and Patrick Villeneuve;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Joshua Hutt and his friends on participating in the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada PLAY ON! tournament and wish them best of luck in their games.

[Page 9983]

RESOLUTION NO. 4236

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's PLAY ON!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th-19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas PLAY ON! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skills, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Ryan Hickey is participating in the 2016 PLAY ON! tournament with his friends from the community: Will Brown, Joshua Hutt, Michael Makropoulous, Callum Milne, Tyler Powell, and Patrick Villeneuve;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Ryan Hickey and his friends on participating in the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada PLAY ON! tournament and wish them best of luck in their games.

RESOLUTION NO. 4237

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Hockey Night in Canada's PLAY ON!, a very well-recognized Canadian street hockey tournament and outdoor hockey festival, is taking place in Halifax from June 18^th-19^th on the Halifax Common; and

Whereas PLAY ON! tournaments feature hundreds of teams and thousands of participants and include separate divisions for both genders, all skills, and all ages; and

Whereas my constituent Will Brown is participating in the 2016 PLAY ON! tournament with his friends from the community: Ryan Hickey, Joshua Hutt, Michael Makropoulous, Callum Milne, Tyler Powell, and Patrick Villeneuve;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Will Brown and his friends on participating in the 2016 Hockey Night in Canada PLAY ON! tournament and wish them best of luck in their games.

[Page 9984]

RESOLUTION NO. 4238

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 Avon View High School in Windsor, Nova Scotia, held the first provincials for the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) on May 7^th, where five schools represented five boards and gold, silver, and bronze medals were awarded in four categories to both male and female students; and

Whereas three students from Avon View High School participated in the Canadian NASP championships in Edmonton during the winter; and

Whereas Hunter Pemberton was selected to be on the Canadian team going to the World Tournament being held in South Africa this summer;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate the students who competed in provincials for the National Archery in the Schools Program and extend our best wishes for success to Hunter Pemberton when she represents Canada this summer in the competition with other archers from around the world.

RESOLUTION NO. 4239

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Stephen Muise is the assistant director of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Stephen helps lead the chorus members, who are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Stephen Muise and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

[Page 9985]

RESOLUTION NO. 4240

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas John MacLeod is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas John and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating John MacLeod and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4241

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Tony Aucoin is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Tony and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Tony Aucoin and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4242

[Page 9986]

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Billy MacPherson is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Billy and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Billy MacPherson and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4243

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Bruce Gillis is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Bruce and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen, who through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Bruce Gillis and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4244

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Gerald Burke is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

[Page 9987]

Whereas Gerald and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Gerald Burke and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4245

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas John Pendergast is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas John and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate John Pendergast and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4246

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Ernie Kliza is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Ernie and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

[Page 9988]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Ernie Kliza and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4247

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Alfie Mathinson is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Alfie and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Alfie Mathinson and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4248

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Jack O'Donnell is the director of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Jack and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Jack O'Donnell and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4249

[Page 9989]

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Jim MacLellan is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Jim and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Jim MacLellan and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4250

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Gordie Sherriff is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Gordie and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Gordie Sherriff and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4251

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Carmen Hughes is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

[Page 9990]

Whereas Carmen and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Carmen Hughes and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4252

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Gary Michlosky is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Gary and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Gary Michlosky and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4253

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Bobby Burke is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Bobby and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

[Page 9991]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Bobby Burke and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4254

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Jackie MacQueen is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Jackie and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jackie MacQueen and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4255

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Bobby Roper is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Bobby and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Bobby Roper and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4256

[Page 9992]

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Jackie Beaton is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Jackie and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jackie Beaton and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4257

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Nipper MacLeod is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Nipper and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Nipper MacLeod and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4258

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Kevin Steiger is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

[Page 9993]

Whereas Kevin and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Kevin Steiger and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4259

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Shane MacLeod is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Shane and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Shane MacLeod and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4260

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Kevin Edwards is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Kevin and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

[Page 9994]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Kevin Edwards and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4261

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Ray Holland is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Ray and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Ray Holland and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4262

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Matt Hawley is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Matt and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Matt Hawley and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4263

[Page 9995]

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Ronnie Leadbeater is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Ronnie and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Ronnie Leadbeater and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4264

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Jude Kelly is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Jude and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Jude Kelly and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4265

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Sen White is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

[Page 9996]

Whereas Sen and the other chorus members are a one-of-a- kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Sen White and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4266

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Micky MacIntyre is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Micky and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Micky MacIntyre and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4267

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Yogi Muise is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Yogi and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

[Page 9997]

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Yogi Muise and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4268

By: Mr. David Wilton « » (Cape Breton Centre)

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

Whereas Melvin Mugford is a member of the Men of the Deeps, North America's only coal mining chorus; and

Whereas Melvin and the other chorus members are a one-of-a-kind group of gentlemen who, through songs and storytelling, give you an insight into life as a Cape Breton coal miner; and

Whereas the chorus is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly join me to congratulate Melvin Mugford and the Men of the Deeps on their 50^th Anniversary.

RESOLUTION NO. 4269

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Catherine Blewett has served the Province of Nova Scotia and its people for many years, rising to the top of the provincial public service and currently serving as the Clerk of the Executive Council and Secretary to Cabinet, as well as Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and of the Office of Immigration, and we are so lucky in Halifax Armdale to have her as a constituent; and

Whereas Catherine Blewett has advanced Nova Scotia's interests particularly in the areas of immigration, intergovernmental relations, and Aboriginal affairs, while leading by example and challenging others to lean in and match her remarkable energy and drive; and

Whereas Catherine Blewett has been recognized for her outstanding leadership at the provincial and federal levels, with Prime Minister Trudeau recently naming her the next Deputy Minister of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, effective June 20^th;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature thank Catherine Blewett for her extraordinary service to our province, and wish Catherine well as she assumes her new role in Ottawa.

[Page 9998]

RESOLUTION NO. 4270

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Ms. Leta Totten of Upper Lake has taught physical education at Central Kings Rural High School for 30 years; and

Whereas the Annapolis Valley Regional School Board awarded Ms. Totten the Working Together Award for 2016; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia School Athletic Foundation awarded Ms. Totten the prestigious Dorothy G. Walker Distinguished Service Award, presented on April 28, 2016, by Ms. Walker herself;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate and thank Ms. Leta Totten on her recent awards and for her exceptional commitment to the physical education of Nova Scotia's students.

RESOLUTION NO. 4271

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas Ms. Natalie MacIsaac is a very talented and dedicated teacher of drama and English at Horton High School; and

Whereas Ms. MacIsaac is described by her students as a "ball of energy," producing the school musicals, coordinating a creativity and action program for baccalaureate students, and helping to develop the province-wide African Heritage course; and

Whereas Ms. MacIsaac has been awarded the 2015 Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence for her exceptional commitment to education;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly congratulate and thank Ms. Natalie MacIsaac on her award and for her excellent work with the students of Nova Scotia.

[Page 9999]

RESOLUTION NO. 4272

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas Shaun Miller had an impressive 2015 hockey season with the Cole Harbour Wolfpack, and Shaun represented Nova Scotia at the 2015 Canada Games, where he was Nova Scotia's top scorer with 7 points in 6 games, helping his team finish 5^th overall; and

Whereas Shaun was drafted to the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League in the 4^th round 64^th overall to Blaineville-Broisband Armada, and participated in the Hockey Canada U17 Development Camp hosted in Calgary, Alberta; and

Whereas the East Hants Sports Heritage Society held their second annual Sports Awards on Saturday, May 7, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Shaun on being the winner of the 18 and Under Male Athlete of the Year award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4273

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas this season the Riverside Education Centre (REC) Junior Boys Track and Field won the district championships and advanced nine of the fourteen members to the regional championships, and won the regionals, and sent five members to the provincials; and

Whereas the REC boys won the school's first Junior Boys Provincial Banner; and

Whereas the East Hants Sports Heritage Society held their second annual Sports Awards on Saturday, May 7, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Riverside Education Centre Junior Boys Track and Field on winning the 14 and Under Team of the Year award.

[Page 10000]

RESOLUTION NO. 4274

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas Sean Morrison competes in track and field, and in 2015 won four medals at the NSSAF Provincial Championships and was the fastest junior boy in the province, breaking the Northumberland Regional Record for the fastest 200-metre and 400-metre times for a junior boys competitor; and

Whereas Sean competed at the Legion National Championship, finishing 19^th in the 100-metre and 26^th in the 200-metre, and was a member of Team Nova Scotia which finished 5^th in the nation in the 4-by-100-metre relay; and

Whereas the East Hants Sports Heritage Society held their second annual Sports Awards on Saturday, May 7^th, 2016;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sean Morrison on winning the 14 and Under Male Athlete of the Year award.

RESOLUTION NO. 4275

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the NS School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Dwayne MacLeod for his contribution to the 2016 Horton championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4276

[Page 10001]

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the NS School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Keevan Veinot for his contribution to the 2016 Horton championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4277

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the NS School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Ethan Sperling for his contribution to the 2016 Horton championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4278

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the NS School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

[Page 10002]

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Sabean Gage for his contribution to the 2016 Horton championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4279

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Callum Pufahl for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4280

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

[Page 10003]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Isaac Melanson for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4281

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Caleb Melanson for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4282

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Drae Medicraft for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4283

[Page 10004]

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Luke McNutt for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4284

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Noah MacPherson for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4285

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

[Page 10005]

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Bryden MacDonald for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4286

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Matthew Ingham for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4287

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

[Page 10006]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Jesse Fuller for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4288

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Isaac Clarke for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4289

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Ethan Clarke for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4290

[Page 10007]

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Jason Clark for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4291

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Kevin Veinot for his contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4292

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

[Page 10008]

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Jayda Veinot for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4293

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Maia Timmons for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4294

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

[Page 10009]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Alania Poirier for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4295

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Calla Newcomb for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4296

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Haley McDonald for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4297

[Page 10010]

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams at Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Meghan MacLeod for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4298

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Emily MacArthur for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4299

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

[Page 10011]

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Jami Horne for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4300

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Hannah Fuller for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4301

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

[Page 10012]

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Abbie Fox for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4302

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Sara Cumby for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4303

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Gillian Cumby for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4304

[Page 10013]

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Lindsay Harris for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4305

By: Mr. Keith Irving « » (Kings South)

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

Whereas the girls and boys basketball teams of Horton High School both won the N.S. School Athletic Federation Division 1 Championships in March 2016; and

Whereas the girls and boys basketball players have accomplished a rare feat in NSSAF history; and

Whereas the teams have long traditions of excellence and produce some of the province's best players;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly commend Jennifer Veinot for her contribution to the 2016 Horton Championship team.

RESOLUTION NO. 4306

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy « » (The Speaker)

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

Whereas Danielle MacEachern-Rowlings is a resident of Porters Lake, a dedicated mother, and a devoted spouse; and

[Page 10014]

Whereas Danielle is an active volunteer in the greater Porters Lake area with many community initiatives, always quick to lend a helping hand when and where needed; and

Whereas Danielle is committed to the benefits of personal health and fitness and is the founder of A Shore Thing, an annual triathlon held in Porters Lake, Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly join me in thanking Danielle MacEachern-Rowlings for giving of her time and talents for the betterment of the Eastern Shore.

RESOLUTION NO. 4307

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Jordan Nassim Ghosn received his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Saint Mary's University on Wednesday, May 18, 2016; and

Whereas Jordan is blessed to have very loving and supportive parents and extended family around him; and

Whereas I was pleased to attend and be on stage to congratulate Jordan upon the presentation of his degree during his convocation ceremony;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jordan Nassim Ghosn on receiving his Bachelor of Commerce degree and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4308

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Joseph Patrick Ramia received his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Saint Mary's University on Wednesday, May 18, 2016; and

Whereas Joseph is blessed to have very loving and supportive parents and extended family around him; and

[Page 10015]

Whereas I am extremely pleased to be able to congratulate Joseph on his strong work ethic and dedication to fulfilling the requirements of his degree;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Joseph Patrick Ramia on receiving his Bachelor of Commerce degree and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4309

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Patrick Joseph Laba will receive his Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Mary's University this Friday on May 20, 2016; and

Whereas Patrick is blessed to have very loving and supportive parents and extended family around him; and

Whereas I am extremely pleased to be able to congratulate Patrick on his strong work ethic and dedication to fulfill the requirements of this degree;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Patrick Joseph Laba on receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree and wish him continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4310

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Nova Scotians all across our province have stepped up to help welcome refugees into their communities; and

Whereas the Hill Grove Baptist Church, in Digby, along with neighbouring churches, committed to sponsoring a Syrian refugee family; and

Whereas I was pleased to join members of the Hill Grove Baptist Church Refugee Sponsorship group to welcome their family on December 22, 2015, at Halifax Stanfield International Airport;

[Page 10016]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Wendy Bradley and all members of the Hill Grove Baptist Church Refugee Sponsorship group on their humanitarian efforts to help and welcome others in need, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4311

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Nova Scotians all across our province have stepped up to help welcome refugees into their communities; and

Whereas the three Antigonish communities, St. Andrews, Heatherton, and Giants Lake, formed the Tri-Heart Society Refugee Family Sponsorship group with the goal of raising sufficient resources to sponsor a refugee family; and

Whereas the Tri-Heart Society welcomed their Syrian family of six on January 13, 2016, who landed at Halifax Stanfield International Airport and were greeted by group members, along with a translator;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Tri-Heart Society Refugee Family Sponsorship group on their humanitarian efforts to help and welcome others in need, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4312

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Nova Scotians all across our province have stepped up to help welcome refugees into their communities; and

Whereas SAFE (Syrian-Antigonish Families Embrace) is a private sponsorship refugee group that was formed in May 2015 in Antigonish; and

Whereas 8 to 15 members of SAFE made the trip to Halifax Stanfield International Airport on three separate occasions, in December 2015 and January 2016, to welcome two Syrian families to Antigonish;

[Page 10017]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate SAFE on their humanitarian efforts to help and welcome others in need, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4313

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas on May 21^st the Turkish Society of Nova Scotia will hold an inauguration ceremony at Pier 21 to unveil a memorial stone marking the famous speech of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk concerning the Battle of Çanakkale (Gallipoli) in 1916; and

Whereas former President Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, in his "Words to the Anzac Mothers" offered heartfelt consolation to the families of all the fallen soldiers at Çanakkale - Turkish and Canadian alike; and

Whereas this speech is credited with helping to heal the wounds of war and begin the enduring friendship and co-operation that Canada and Turkey enjoy today;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature congratulate the Turkish Society of Nova Scotia and applaud their President, Yasemin Mensah, and Honorary Consul, Ali Çinar, for this important symbol of remembrance, sympathy, and continuing friendship between Canada and Turkey.

RESOLUTION NO. 4314

By: Hon. Lena Diab « » (Immigration)

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

Whereas Nova Scotians all across our province have stepped up to help welcome refugees into their communities; and

Whereas CARE (Canadians Accepting Refugees Everywhere) is a privately sponsored refugee group organized under the auspices of St. Ninian's Parish in Antigonish; and

Whereas CARE is designated to help families, who survived conflict and crisis, to rebuild their lives resettling in the community of Antigonish, and commenced their fundraising efforts in January 2016;

[Page 10018]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate CARE on their humanitarian efforts to help and welcome others in need, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 4315

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Justice)

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

Whereas the hotel formerly known as the Quality Inn & Suites Bayers Lake located on Parkland Drive in Halifax has recently re-opened, after a 10-month transformation, under the new ownership of the InterContinental Hotels Group and under the new name Holiday Inn Express & Suites; and

Whereas this transformation makes it one of the first "smart design" hotels that the InterContinental Hotels Group has opened in Canada, offering business and other travellers options to better suit their changing demands; and

Whereas this renovated hotel now provides, among other things, speedy self-service check-in desks and a communal work area which allows users the space and ability to do group planning or just seek other users' assistance;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate general manager Kathy Perrier and the hotel staff on the re-opening of this "smart" hotel and wish them every success as they work towards meeting the ever-changing needs of travellers.

RESOLUTION NO. 4316

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Justice)

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

Whereas Maria Samman, a 16-year-old student of Sacred Heart School and a resident of Clayton Park West, was recently awarded one of 19 Canada-wide awards by the Vimy Foundation; and

Whereas these awards are given to young people who have demonstrated outstanding service and leadership in their school and community, after a rigorous selection process from hundreds of young Canadian applicants; and

[Page 10019]

Whereas this award has given Maria the opportunity to participate in a week-long, fully-funded educational program to study Canada's contribution to the war effort, with visits to Vimy Ridge National Memorial, the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, and the site of John MacCrae's field hospital where, during World War I, he penned In Flanders Fields;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Maria Samman on winning this award and encourage her to continue to pursue her deep interest in Canadian history.

RESOLUTION NO. 4317

By: Hon. Diana Whalen « » (Justice)

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

Whereas every year the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation offers scholarships to one Grade 12 student in each of the province's school board regions who plans to attend a Nova Scotia college or university upon high school graduation; and

Whereas Rafeeda Khashmelmous, a graduate of Halifax West High School, is the proud winner of the Halifax 2015-16 KARes Scholar Award, which provides $5,000 per year for three years of study; and

Whereas this award required Rafeeda to study a health topic, interview someone involved with health research, and then write an essay on her findings;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Rafeeda Khashmelmous on winning this prestigious scholarship and wish her every success in her future studies in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 4318

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10020]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kennedy MacDonald, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches, on their hard-won success, and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4319

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Paige MacIntyre, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches, on their hard-won success, and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4320

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10021]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Savannah Paul, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches, on their hard-won success, and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4321

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Isabelle Pellerine, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches, on their hard-won success, and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4322

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10022]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lucy Phillips, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches, on their hard-won success, and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4323

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Caroline Steeves, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches, on their hard-won success, and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4324

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10023]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Sarah Taylar, the TASA Pee Wee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4325

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kenadie Wagg, the TASA Pewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4326

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10024]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Piekea Wall, the TASA Pewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4327

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Adam Pellerine, assistant coach of the TASA Pewee AA Girls, on his commitment to the team and thank him for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to his fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4328

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10025]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Riley Hemstock, assistant coach of the TASA Peewee AA Girls, on his commitment to the team and thank him for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to his fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4329

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tom Hickey, assistant coach of the TASA Peewee AA Girls, on his commitment to the team and thank him for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to his fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4330

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10026]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Steve Wagg, assistant coach of the TASA Peewee AA Girls, on his commitment to the team and thank him for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to his fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4331

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Dan Steeves, assistant coach of the TASA Peewee AA Girls, on his commitment to the team and thank him for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to his fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4332

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10027]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kristin Battist, the TASA Pewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4333

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Cindy Taylar, treasurer of the TASA Peewee AA Girls, on her commitment to the team and thank her for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to her fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4334

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10028]

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Melissa DeWolfe, the TASA Peewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4335

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in the provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches were an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Audrey Donahue, the TASA Peewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4336

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10029]

Whereas the girls and their coaches are an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kaylee Hickey, the TASA Peewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4337

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches are an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Taylor Jeffrey, the TASA Peewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4338

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

[Page 10030]

Whereas the girls and their coaches are an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Maja Kolanko, the TASA Peewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4339

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the TASA Peewee AA Girls and their coaches showed perseverance and skill in their provincial final game where they were named co-champions of the province; and

Whereas the girls and their coaches are an example of sportsmanship in deciding to resolve their marathon game by declaring both teams champions; and

Whereas the team will remember this game, this season, and their teammates for the rest of their lives;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kiara MacDonald, the TASA Peewee AA Girls, and their coaches on their hard-won success and thank them for setting an example of perseverance and sportsmanship in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4340

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Rita and Richard Zinck are residents of Hammonds Plains who have provided a shining example of love and patience; and

[Page 10031]

Whereas they celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary on April 30, 2016; and

Whereas their commitment to each other has provided health and happiness;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Richard and Rita Zinck for their commitment and love and thank them for providing an example of a lifelong marriage in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4341

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Stillwater Lake resident Alexa McLatchy of Sir John A. Macdonald High School was awarded the Herbert H. Carnegie Future Aces Citizenship Award and Scholarship for her extensive community service work and volunteerism in the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville community; and

Whereas Alexa is one of 60 national recipients of the award and the lone Nova Scotian to be awarded this prestigious honour; and

Whereas Future Aces strives to "inspire and assist youth to become the best they can be as responsible, respectful, peaceful, confident, and caring citizens," and these traits are easily found in this driven young woman;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Alexa for her hard work and humanitarian efforts in the service of Hammonds Plains-Lucasville and her fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4342

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Mr. Garridan Porter, a Grade 12 student who attends Sir John A. Macdonald High School, and is a resident of Upper Tantallon, has been awarded a $5,000 scholarship from the Horatio Alger Association of Canada for his post-secondary studies; and

[Page 10032]

Garridan is one of 85 students to be awarded this scholarship in the country; and

Whereas the Horatio Alger Association of Canada provides scholarships to full-time students in their senior year of high school who have demonstrated integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity, the commitment to pursuing post-secondary education, and maintaining a good academic record;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Garridan Porter for his scholastic accomplishments and wish him future success in his university career.

RESOLUTION NO. 4343

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Meagan Brown of Charles P. Allen High School was the winner of the Mining ROCKS! video contest put on through the Mining Association of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Megan's video highlighted the historical contribution of the mining sector to the Nova Scotian economy and the continued importance of Nova Scotia's modern firms on the creation of everything from trail stones to playground pebbles, major infrastructure and road-building projects made possible by Nova Scotian mines, quarries, and employees; and

Whereas Meagan's video, entitled Why Should I Care? , took first place and a $1,000 prize for her efforts;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Meagan for her hard work and creativity while encouraging her to continue her filmmaking, and also extend congratulations to the Mining Association of Nova Scotia for offering the province's youth an opportunity to be rewarded for showing their production and creativity skills in service to all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4344

[Page 10033]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Luke Green of Hammonds Plains is ranked 40^th amongst North American skaters in the final draft rankings for the 2016 hockey season; and

Whereas Luke is projected to be taken in the second or third round of the upcoming NHL draft, after being taken first overall in the QMJHL draft by the Saint John Sea Dogs in 2014; and

Whereas it speaks volumes to the tradition of excellence in sport in Hammonds Plains, particularly in hockey, that Mr. Green will get the chance to ply his trade in the best hockey league in the world against other hometown notables like Brad Marchand and Andy Bodnarchuk, who have all grown up playing in the same Halifax area rinks;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Luke Green for his athletic accomplishments and wish him luck in the upcoming draft, and acknowledge not just the hard work of the athletes like Mr. Green but also the commitments made by parents, coaches, and volunteers, to create an atmosphere that can foster this kind of success for our young athletes in service to all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4345

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Nick Hasey of Hammonds Plains has graduated from Sir John A. Macdonald High School on an individual placement program; and

Whereas Nick was recently accepted to NSCC to pursue his interest in filmmaking and animation; and

Whereas Nick is a great example of how the drive to overcome adversity and pursue one's passion can lead to success;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Nick on his hard work and perseverance in pursuit of scholastic excellence in the service of all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4346

[Page 10034]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Chase Marchand of Upper Tantallon has worked hard on and off the ice, and is presently the starting goaltender for the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League; and

Whereas Chase continues to build on his playoff successes this season, posting 15 wins, a 1.35 goals against average, and a save percentage of .946; and

Whereas Chase and the Huskies recently won the President Cup as champions of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate Chase on his record-setting playoff performance, and wish him the best as he pursues the Memorial Cup and the NHL.

RESOLUTION NO. 4347

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas SkySquirrel Technologies is an exciting company in Hammonds Plains, combining the high-tech world of drone technology with old-world winemaking; and

Whereas the company was recently awarded $1 million in start-up funding in their first round of venture capital investment; and

Whereas SkySquirrel has the potential to greatly increase the efficiency of vineyards here in Nova Scotia with their innovative approach to crop observance;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate SkySquirrel for their ingenuity and economic success in the service of all Nova Scotians, and wish them all the best in the upcoming growing season.

RESOLUTION NO. 4348

[Page 10035]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Lieutenant Governor's Medal recognizes academic performance and the qualities of leadership, and services demonstrated to school and community; and

Whereas the medal is presented to Grade 11 students throughout the province; and

Whereas Taylor Katherine Bueree was presented with the medal as this year's recipient from Sir John A. Macdonald High School;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Taylor Katherine Bueree for her academic success and community involvement in service to all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4349

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Lieutenant Governor's Medal recognizes academic performance and the qualities of leadership, and services demonstrated to school and community; and

Whereas the medal is presented to Grade 11 students throughout the province; and

Whereas Tegan Marie Aguinaga was presented with the medal as this year's recipient from Sir John A. Macdonald High School;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Tegan Marie Aguinaga for her academic success and community involvement in service to all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4350

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas all Nova Scotians have been exceedingly generous in accepting Syrian refugees with open arms; and

[Page 10036]

Whereas the Kingswood Refugee Project has taken it upon themselves to sponsor a family in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas they have shown resolve and character by bringing together the community in the spirit of giving by raising money to provide this family with a home and an opportunity to establish themselves in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Michelle Daigle of the Kingswood Refugee Project for her hard work, compassion, and help to enable a future for this family.

RESOLUTION NO. 4351

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas all Nova Scotians have been exceedingly generous in accepting Syrian refugees with open arms; and

Whereas the Kingswood Refugee Project has taken it upon themselves to sponsor a family in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas they have shown resolve and character by bringing together the community in the spirit of giving by raising money to provide this family with a home and an opportunity to establish themselves in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jill Haigh of the Kingswood Refugee Project for her hard work, compassion, and help to enable a future for this family.

RESOLUTION NO. 4352

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas all Nova Scotians have been exceedingly generous in accepting Syrian refugees with open arms; and

Whereas the Kingswood Refugee Project has taken it upon themselves to sponsor a family in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

[Page 10037]

Whereas they have shown resolve and character by bringing together the community in the spirit of giving by raising money to provide this family with a home and an opportunity to establish themselves in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Hannah Draper of the Kingswood Refugee Project for her hard work, compassion, and help to enable a future for this family.

RESOLUTION NO. 4353

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas all Nova Scotians have been exceedingly generous in accepting Syrian refugees with open arms; and

Whereas the Kingswood Refugee Project has taken it upon themselves to sponsor a family in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas they have shown resolve and character by bringing together the community in the spirit of giving by raising money to provide this family with a home and an opportunity to establish themselves in Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jennifer Mills of the Kingswood Refugee Project for her hard work, compassion, and help to enable a future for this family.

RESOLUTION NO. 4354

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas all Nova Scotians have been exceedingly generous in accepting Syrian refugees with open arms; and

Whereas the Kingswood Refugee Project has taken it upon themselves to sponsor a family in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas they have shown resolve and character by bringing together the community in the spirit of giving by raising money to provide this family with a home and an opportunity to establish themselves in Nova Scotia;

[Page 10038]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate David Campbell of the Kingswood Refugee Project for his hard work, compassion, and help to enable a future for this family.

RESOLUTION NO. 4355

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the work of the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee has reached completion in erecting the cenotaph at Uplands Park; and

Whereas with the assistance of all levels of government, First Nations, and community members, they have put together a monument that Hammonds Plains-Lucasville can be proud of; and

Whereas it is important for citizens to continue to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of our service members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Pamela Lovelace and the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee for their dedication and perseverance in erecting this beautiful monument.

RESOLUTION NO. 4356

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the work of the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee has reached completion in erecting the cenotaph at Uplands Park; and

Whereas with the assistance of all levels of government, First Nations, and community members, they have put together a monument that Hammonds Plains-Lucasville can be proud of; and

Whereas it is important for citizens to continue to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of our service members;

[Page 10039]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Major Jason Samson and the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee for their dedication and perseverance in erecting this beautiful monument.

RESOLUTION NO. 4357

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the work of the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee has reached completion in erecting the cenotaph at Uplands Park; and

Whereas with the assistance of all levels of government, First Nations, and community members, they have put together a monument that Hammonds Plains-Lucasville can be proud of; and

Whereas it is important for citizens to continue to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of our service members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lieutenant Commander Todd Brayman and the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee for their dedication and perseverance in erecting this beautiful monument.

RESOLUTION NO. 4358

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the work of the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee has reached completion in erecting the cenotaph at Uplands Park; and

Whereas with the assistance of all levels of government, First Nations, and community members, they have put together a monument that Hammonds Plains-Lucasville can be proud of; and

Whereas it is important for citizens to continue to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of our service members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Andy Pierce and the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee for their dedication and perseverance in erecting this beautiful monument.

[Page 10040]

RESOLUTION NO. 4359

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the work of the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee has reached completion in erecting the cenotaph at Uplands Park; and

Whereas with the assistance of all levels of government, First Nations, and community members, they have put together a monument that Hammonds Plains-Lucasville can be proud of; and

Whereas it is important for citizens to continue to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of our service members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Anita Pierce and the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee for their dedication and perseverance in erecting this beautiful monument.

RESOLUTION NO. 4360

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the work of the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee has reached completion in erecting the cenotaph at Uplands Park; and

Whereas with the assistance of all levels of government, First Nations, and community members, they have put together a monument that Hammonds Plains-Lucasville can be proud of; and

Whereas it is important for citizens to continue to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of our service members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Reverend Randy Townsend and the Hammonds Plains-Lucasville Memorial Committee for their dedication and perseverance in erecting this beautiful monument.

[Page 10041]

RESOLUTION NO. 4361

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brian Murray of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for his initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4362

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Doug J. Poulton of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for his initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials, in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

[Page 10042]

RESOLUTION NO. 4363

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Anthony Fielding of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for his initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4364

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

[Page 10043]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Deborah M. Fradley of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for her initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4365

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Marilyn Cummings of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for her initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4366

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

[Page 10044]

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Reginald James Jones of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for his initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4367

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Lyle Kennedy of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for his initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4368

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

[Page 10045]

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA were inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Shaun C. MacIntyre of the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for his initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce, and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4369

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA was inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Daniel G. Monk and the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for their initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses, and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4370

[Page 10046]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association is a vital part of the business community in Hammonds Plains-Lucasville; and

Whereas the HPABA continues to showcase the great work of local business and has significantly grown its membership in the past year; and

Whereas the HPABA was inclined to put on a well-attended town hall meeting for local residents to meet with their MLA and councillor in an informative and expressive setting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Tim Kohoot and the Hammonds Plains Area Business Association for their initiative and hard work in continuing to foster a spirit of commerce and for their actions as a link between the public, businesses, and elected officials in service to their fellow Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 4371

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Dave Haverstock and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4372

[Page 10047]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Brian Murray and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4373

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Cynthia Simpson and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4374

[Page 10048]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Wayne Shellnut and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4375

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Cathy Munroe and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4376

[Page 10049]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Vernon Kynock and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4377

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Gail Stronach and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4378

[Page 10050]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the greater Hammonds Plains community continues to develop from a predominantly rural area with a significant focus on farming and logging; and

Whereas its residents have a vast history of overcoming adversity, celebrating the integrity of the community, and contributing to the greater good of the province; and

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Historical Society continues to grow its membership and contribute to local causes, and is an integral part of our community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Thomas Martin and the Hammonds Plains Historical Society board of directors as they endeavour to educate the general public and celebrate the wonderful history of our community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4379

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Deborah Fradley and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4380

[Page 10051]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Darla Haverstock and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4381

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Lyle Kennedy and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4382

[Page 10052]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Amy Rafuse and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4383

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Jenn Barr-Gaetz and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4384

[Page 10053]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Ken Mitchell and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4385

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Shaun MacIntyre and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4386

[Page 10054]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Meaghan MacKinnon and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4387

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Jenelle Crocker and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4388

[Page 10055]

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas the Hammonds Plains Community Centre continues to provide a safe, inclusive place for local residents to foster community spirit; and

Whereas the centre's board of directors continues to work diligently with stakeholders, community members, sponsors, and local businesses to upgrade its current services through aesthetic developments and replacing dated infrastructure; and

Whereas the local community shows great pride and demonstrates willingness to continue to support the community centre and its board of directors in their endeavours to enhance the current infrastructure and capacity;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the hard work and dedication of Anne-Marie Evans and the board of directors at the Hammonds Plains Community Centre and wish them continued success in moving forward.

RESOLUTION NO. 4389

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the 18^th Annual 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair was held at the Port Hawkesbury Civil Centre from April 4^th to April 7^th; and

Whereas the winners were honoured at the Strait Area Education and Recreation Centre auditorium on Thursday, April 7, 2016; and

Whereas Jasmine Molloy of Richmond Education Centre and Academy was awarded the Business Department Prize;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jasmine Molloy on winning the Business Department Prize at the 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair.

RESOLUTION NO. 4390

[Page 10056]

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the Richmond Cheer Athletics senior team, the RCA Vengeance, competed in the 2016 Cheer Evolution National Cheer and Dance Championships in April 2016 in Niagara Falls; and

Whereas the RCA Vengeance finished a very impressive third place in their division; and

Whereas the Richmond Cheer Athletics senior team features Jade Tower, Samantha Pyke, Amber Keating, Hayley Samson, Kelsie Savoury, Lauryn Landry, Kyra Ranson, Samantha Wyler, Samara Fougere, Kelsey Beaton, Kearah Kennedy, Karly Benoit, Jessica Wyler, Brittany MacDonald, Makayla Landry, Destiny Gill, and coaches Jackie Samson, Allie Mombourquette, and Meaghan Cooke;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating these young athletes, and their coaches, on their impressive showing and wish them the best in future competitions.

RESOLUTION NO. 4391

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas The Atlantic Judo Championships took place in Summerside, P.E.I., on March 25^th and 26^th; and

Whereas Liam Kennedy from the Port Hawkesbury Judo Club captured gold in the U14-50kg division; and

Whereas on April 24^th Liam also competed in the Otoshi Cup event, in Moncton, and finished with a silver medal;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Liam Kennedy on his recent successes, and wish him best of luck in his future competitions.

RESOLUTION NO. 4392

[Page 10057]

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the Strait Regional School Board held their 18^th Annual Strait Regional Heritage Fair on Friday, May 6^th at Mulgrave Memorial Education Centre; and

Whereas Taylor MacIsaac, a Grade 6 student at Tamarac Education Centre, won 2^nd overall at the Strait Regional Heritage Fair with her project on Moxham Castle; and

Whereas Taylor will receive a $425 scholarship for placing 2^nd, and the eight winning students will attend the provincial fair on June 2 and 3, 2016, at Saint Mary's University in Halifax;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Taylor MacIsaac on winning 2^nd place at the Strait Regional Heritage Fair with her excellent project on Moxham Castle, and wish her good luck at the Provincial Fair in June.

RESOLUTION NO. 4393

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the 18^th Annual 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair was held at the Port Hawkesbury Civil Centre from April 4^th to 7^th; and

Whereas the winners were honoured at the Strait Area Education and Recreation Centre auditorium on Thursday, April 7, 2016; and

Whereas Nicole Downing of Richmond Education Centre and Academy was awarded the Agriculture Awareness Award;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Nicole Downing on winning the Agriculture Awareness Award at the 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair.

RESOLUTION NO. 4394

[Page 10058]

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the 18^th Annual 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair was held at the Port Hawkesbury Civil Centre from April 4^th to 7^th; and

Whereas the winners were honoured at the Strait Area Education and Recreation Centre auditorium on Thursday, April 7, 2016; and

Whereas Amy Sheriff of Richmond Education Centre and Academy was awarded the Agriculture Awareness Award;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Amy Sheriff on winning the Agriculture Awareness Award at the 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair.

RESOLUTION NO. 4395

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the 18^th Annual 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair was held at the Port Hawkesbury Civil Centre from April 4^th to 7^th; and

Whereas the winners were honoured at the Strait Area Education and Recreation Centre auditorium on Thursday, April 7, 2016; and

Whereas Alexandra Fraser of Richmond Education Centre and Academy was awarded the Department of Human Nutrition Prize, as well as the Food and Beverage Services Prize;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Alexandra Fraser on winning the Department of Human Nutrition and the Food and Beverages Services Prizes at the 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair.

RESOLUTION NO. 4396

[Page 10059]

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the 18^th Annual 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair was held at the Port Hawkesbury Civil Centre from April 4^th to 7^th; and

Whereas the winners were honoured at the Strait Area Education and Recreation Centre auditorium on Thursday, April 7, 2016; and

Whereas Makayla Boudreau of Richmond Education Centre and Academy was awarded the Health and Human Services Prize;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Makayla Boudreau on winning the Health and Human Services Prize at the 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair.

RESOLUTION NO. 4397

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the Strait Regional School Board held their 18^th Annual Strait Regional Heritage Fair on Friday, May 6^th, at Mulgrave Memorial Education Centre; and

Whereas Brea Campbell, a Grade 8 student at Tamarac Education Centre, won Showcase No.6 at the Strait Regional Heritage Fair with her project on Pier 21; and

Whereas Brea and the eight winning students of the Heritage Fair will attend the Provincial Fair on June 2 and 3, 2016, at Saint Mary's University in Halifax;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Brea Campbell on winning Showcase No.6 at the Strait Regional Heritage Fair with her excellent project on Pier 21, and wish her good luck at the Provincial Fair in June.

RESOLUTION NO. 4398

[Page 10060]

By: Hon. Michel Samson « » (Energy)

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

Whereas the 18^th Annual 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair was held at the Port Hawkesbury Civil Centre from April 4^th to 7^th; and

Whereas the winners were honoured at the Strait Area Education and Recreation Centre auditorium on Thursday, April 7, 2016; and

Whereas Brenna Martell of Richmond Education Centre and Academy was awarded the Department of Human Nutrition Prize, as well as the Food and Beverage Services Prize;

Therefore be it resolved that members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating Brenna Martell on winning the Department of Human Nutrition and the Food and Beverage Services Prizes at the 2016 Strait Regional Science Fair.

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 10061]

(Tabled May 20, 2016)

RESOLUTION NO. 4400

By: Hon. Keith Colwell « » (Agriculture)

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

Whereas Noël Després has spent almost four decades working in and helping to develop Nova Scotia's seafood sector, particularly through his involvement with Comeau Seafoods Limited of Saulnierville as general manager, chief operating officer, and now as its president and chief executive officer and has developed a strong reputation as a successful entrepreneur who contributes his knowledge and expertise to a wide variety of enterprises and institutions, including as a member of the board of provincial Crown corporation Perennia and as president of the Fisheries Safety Association of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Mr. Després is also known as a strong contributor to church and community, being an active member of the Sacred Heart Parish in Clare for more than 20 years, serving on the board of the Health Medical Foundation of Clare, as vice-chair of the Festival acadien de Clare, and with numerous other community organizations that impact the lives of young people; and

Whereas on May 7, 2016, Mr. Després received an honorary doctorate in business sciences from Université Sainte-Anne in recognition of his significant achievements as a business leader, community volunteer, and alumnus of the university;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature congratulate Noël Després on this well-deserved recognition; thank him for his many contributions to his community, province, and country; and wish him continued success as an entrepreneur and active member of his community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4401

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas Ken Spearing and the wonderful works of art he created add life to a central building in Kennetcook; and

Whereas Mr. Spearing created acrylic paintings to cover the 10 windows of the multi-unit building, inspired by old photographs of businesses and iconic structures that helped create the Village of Kennetcook and the pieces feature oil wells from the 1940s, original stores and churches, the former train station, MacAskill's Mill, and the last covered bridge that existed in Nova Scotia;

[Page 10062]

Whereas after nearly 145 hours, the history and growth of Kennetcook are proudly on display in the hub of the community; the images spark many meaningful stories and memories unique to the area; and Mr. Spearing's passion to portray rural scenes and the forgotten past of Nova Scotia agriculture, forestry, and industry is a powerful reminder of where we come from, a powerful reminder of who we are;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature congratulate Mr. Spearing for this incredible accomplishment.

RESOLUTION NO. 4402

By: Hon. Margaret Miller « » (Environment)

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

Whereas the East Hants Atom A Penguins claimed the title in a 4-0 victory over the northern region opponents, Glace Bay, and the RBC Hockey Nova Scotia Day of Champions took place over the weekend of April 8^th to 10^th at the Pictou County Wellness Centre in New Glasgow; and

Whereas the Penguins had been working hard during the road to victory, qualifying for the provincial title by winning the South Conference finals and were supported from both East Hants and Pictou as the games were live streamed for those who couldn't attend; and

Whereas the season has come to an end and we look forward to supporting our East Hants Penguins in the Fall, as our community is very proud of all the team members;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature congratulate the Penguins and wish them continued success in the years to come.

RESOLUTION NO. 4403

[Page 10063]

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas this year marked the 19^th season of the provincial Adopt-a-Highway program; and

Whereas Bayport and area residents Laura Roblee, Shirley Robichaud, Eva Dares, Linda Thompson, and Gene and Allison Barry, armed with gloves, hoes, long poles, and garbage bags, took to cleaning a four-kilometre stretch of Highway No. 332; and

Whereas the clean-up crew, which ranged in age from 63 to 80, collected dozens of garbage bags for proper disposal;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate and recognize this clean-up crew for caring for their community and for their dedicated work to make it a better, cleaner place to live.

RESOLUTION NO. 4404

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas each year RRFB Nova Scotia hosts the Nova Scotia Recycles contest; and

Whereas each year students from Grade Primary to Grade 12 participate in various activities from colouring contests to short films to promote participation in waste reduction; and

Whereas Ms. Heather Jeffers' West Northfield Elementary Primary-Grade 1 class was named runner-up in the activity sheet program, and Park View Education Centre's Bromlyn Myra, a Grade 12 student from Lunenburg, was named runner-up in the Research Essay category;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate both Ms. Heather Jeffers' West Northfield Elementary Primary-Grade 1 class and Park View Education Centre's Bromlyn Myra for their efforts and accomplishments.

RESOLUTION NO. 4405

[Page 10064]

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas several years ago Jessica Josenhans of Lunenburg tried out for the provincial volleyball team, while in Grade 10 at Park View Education Centre; and

Whereas she was surprised to make the team and used it as motivation to take her sport and talents more seriously; and

Whereas Jessica has since gone on to play for Dalhousie University and was named a First-Team Atlantic University Sport All-Star this season;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jessica Josenhans for her continued success and wish her future success both on and off the court.

RESOLUTION NO. 4406

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas Robert Parks has been a long-time member of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Lunenburg; and

Whereas he was recently presented with a plaque recognizing his 53 years of service to the church; and

Whereas his wife, Frances Parks, received a letter of recognition from the church indicating Robert's commitment to the church was a team effort;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate both Robert and Frances Parks for their dedication and commitment to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Lunenburg.

RESOLUTION NO. 4407

[Page 10065]

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas more and more smaller municipal units are coming together to share services to be more fiscally responsible; and

Whereas the Town of Mahone Bay, the Town of Bridgewater, and the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg have shared services in the past and continue to do so; and

Whereas these three municipal units have most recently come together to share the services of a Human Resources manager on a one-year term;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Town of Mahone Bay, the Town of Bridgewater, and the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg for their efforts to become more fiscally sound and responsible.

RESOLUTION NO. 4408

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas Bill Bruhm is a former educator and a long-serving member of the Bridgewater and Area Lions Club; and

Whereas the Lions Club is one of the invaluable service clubs that provide selfless services to our communities; and

Whereas Bill was one of just a small handful of Lions asked to teach at the Lions International Development Seminar hosted in Denver, Colorado, this past spring;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Bill Bruhm on his most recent of many accomplishments within the Lions community.

RESOLUTION NO. 4409

[Page 10066]

By: Ms. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft « » (Lunenburg)

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

Whereas this past winter Lunenburg County was chosen as the host for the 2016 World Sledge Hockey Challenge; and

Whereas more than 5,000 volunteer hours were contributed to the event by 112 volunteers to host teams from North Korea, Russia, the United States, and Canada; and

Whereas Lunenburg County was presented to the world via TSN television and through interaction with the attending teams;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the organizing committee and all the volunteers for showing the world the true spirit of Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 4410

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas the 21^st Annual Halifax Comedy Festival took place between April 27 and April 30 this year; and

Whereas the festival spanned the course of these few days and attracted stand-up comedians from all over North America; and

Whereas it was hosted at various venues across Halifax, promoting our local establishments;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank and congratulate all the organizers, volunteers, and participants for all their hard work in planning and promoting this platform for both local and international comedic talent.

RESOLUTION NO. 4411

[Page 10067]

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas Jessica King is a human resource specialist with the Delta Barrington in downtown Halifax; and

Whereas Ms. King was awarded the Mainstay Award for Health and Safety Educator, for her commitment to the promotion and advancement of workplace health and safety; and

Whereas it is gratifying to know that excellent measures in health and safety are being taken at one of our finest downtown establishments;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Jessica for receiving this award and commend her for all the work she had done to earn it.

RESOLUTION NO. 4412

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas Halifax serves as an important health care hub for not only Nova Scotia but greater Atlantic Canada as well; and

Whereas being on the road when ill can be especially strenuous, having a little sliver of comfort and relaxation can go a long way in helping people get better; and

Whereas the Point Pleasant Lodge has always provided that degree of hospitality to its guests, as a non-profit institution that is affordable for Nova Scotians and Atlantic Canadians who are having to travel to receive care;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking the staff and management of Point Pleasant Lodge for providing more than 41 years of exceptional care and service to those who may need it most.

RESOLUTION NO. 4413

[Page 10068]

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas a source of fresh, local produce is important to assist in maintaining a healthy diet; and

Whereas the Common Roots Urban Farm has opened for its fifth growing season; and

Whereas all 175 garden plots have been spoken for, including plots that provide produce to the Parker Street Food Bank;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly wish the Common Roots Urban Farm a happy growing season and hopefully look forward to stopping by in the future.

RESOLUTION NO. 4414

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas Dr. Jeff Dahn has been named as one of the inaugural recipients of the Governor General's Innovation Awards; and

Whereas Dr. Dahn is the Canada research chair in battery and fuel cell materials and a professor at Dalhousie University in both the physics and atmospheric science and chemistry departments; and

Whereas Dr. Dahn will soon begin a five-year research partnership with Tesla Motors because of his team's ground-breaking advancements in the field;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly acknowledge Dr. Dahn's long-standing, noteworthy contributions to advancements in the field of sustainable energy.

RESOLUTION NO. 4415

[Page 10069]

By: Hon. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas Dinuk Wijeratne won this year's Juno Award for Classical Composition of the Year in his first nomination; and

Whereas Mr. Wijeratne was recognized for his piece, Two Pop Songs on Antique Poems, featured on the Afiara Quartet's album, Spin Cycle.

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly acknowledge Mr. Wijeratne's long-standing, noteworthy contributions to Nova Scotia music.

RESOLUTION NO. 4416

By: Mr. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 has its first artist in residence, Kyle Jackson, who for the next six months will be leading a large sculptural painting for the museum; and

Whereas the painting-in-progress will be called, To Those Still at Sea, which will focus on the Empress of Ireland, a Canadian freighter that sunk off the Gaspé Peninsula in 1914, killing over 1,000 passengers; and

Whereas this is a collaborative effort whereby visitors can have their input on the design of this sculptural painting;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Kyle Jackson on his residency at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and thank him for highlighting this important part of Canadian history.

RESOLUTION NO. 4417

By: Mr. Labi Kousoulis « » (Public Service Commission)

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

Whereas nine students were recipients of honourary doctorates of law from Dalhousie University during this year's Spring convocation; and

[Page 10070]

Whereas an honourary doctorate is the highest honour Dalhousie can bestow, recognizing individuals who've shown considerable leadership or service to their society and in their field of discipline;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the nine recipients of these honourary degrees who are as follows; David F. Sobey, Jan Gehl, Dr. John Gilbert, Alanis Obomsawin, Dr. Mathai Mammen, Dr. Sallie Chisholm, Dr. David Rhys Williams, the Honourable Mayann Francis and Marjorie Lindsay.

RESOLUTION NO. 4418

By: Mr. Ben Jessome « » (Hammonds Plains-Lucasville)

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

Whereas Lauren Soulsby of Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia, continues to excel and add value to our community; and

Whereas Ms. Soulsby was a recipient of the Lieutenant Governor's Medal award last year and continues to show exemplary academic performance; and

Whereas Ms. Soulsby was recently awarded a $30,000 Chancellor Scholarship at Carleton University, one of 10 students to receive this award;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly acknowledge the hard work and commitment of Lauren Soulsby and wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavours.