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HALIFAX, MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Sixty-third General Assembly

Second Session

4:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Suzanne Lohnes-Croft, Brendan Maguire

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

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

GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, as Vice-Chair of the Committee on Law Amendments, I am directed to report that the committee met and considered the following bills:

Bill No. 119 - Builders' Lien Act.

Bill No. 121 - Nursing Act.

Bill No. 135 - Nova Scotia Power Privatization Act and Nova Scotia Power Reorganization (1998) Act.

.

Bill No. 139 - Income Tax Act.

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

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

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Lands and Forestry.

RESOLUTION NO. 967

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

Whereas Canadians celebrate our connection to wildlife during National Wildlife Week, April 7-13, 2019; and

Whereas the Canadian Wildlife Federation is asking Canadians to create a healthier world for all living beings by sharing inspiring stories of change on social media by using the hash tag #DoMoreForWildlife;

Whereas wildlife is critical to the health and well-being of our environment, our people, and our economy;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly recognize National Wildlife Week and the importance of protecting biodiversity to ensure a healthy environment today and for future generations.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

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NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

KEMPTON, MICHELLE: MAR. RACE WEEKEND - DEDICATION

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Today I rise to bring recognition to Michelle Kempton for her hard work and commitment to the not-for-profit Maritime Race Weekend Association. Michelle's dedication has seen the association raise over $103,000 and counting. Proceeds are always distributed back to our community to support local groups.

Maritime Race Weekend happens along the picturesque road of Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia, and has many local supporters and runners from all over the world. Each year approximately 5,000 participants from around the world take part in the event. Many dress up in all manner of pirate costumes and more.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in recognizing Michelle Kempton and her team of dedicated volunteers for all that she and the group do for our community and wish them nothing but success this Fall with the next Maritime Race Weekend.

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

DART. PHARMACIES: FREE MENSTRUATION PRODUCTS - COMMEND

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize two pharmacies in Dartmouth: City of Lakes PharmaChoice on Portland Street, and Highfield Park PharmaChoice in north-end Dartmouth. Menstruation is pricey. For anyone, the cost of hygiene products can be a burden; for people experiencing poverty or living on a fixed income, that cost can be prohibitive.

Cassidy Bellefontaine and David Chiasson saw a need in their community and took the extraordinary step of making menstruation products available to those who need them, free of charge in their pharmacies.

Please join me in thanking Cassidy and David for taking period poverty seriously and working to reduce its prevalence in Dartmouth.

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

MOORE, GRETA: KESHEN GOODMAN VOLUN. TUTOR - COMMEND

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RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize a woman in my riding who has a gift for teaching others. Greta Moore began volunteering as a tutor at Keshen Goodman Public Library back in 2002. Over her 18 years at the library she has helped many people with reading and their academics. What really ignited her desire to help was when she met a refugee family who struggled to learn their new language.

Greta believes that in helping others and being a good neighbour, we build a strong community and furthermore, a strong country. I couldn't agree more.

Mr. Speaker, I ask this House of Assembly to join me in applauding Greta for sharing her knowledge and helping to teach our new community members. Thank you, Greta.

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

DOUCETTE, AUDREY: VOLUN. OF THE YR. - CONGRATS.

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT « » : Mr. Speaker, on Friday, April 1, 2019, the Nova Scotia Government hosted the 45^th annual Provincial Volunteer Awards. Among those being honoured was Audrey Doucette.

Throughout her life, Audrey has spent countless hours volunteering during her spare time. She was a Brownie Leader; a District Commissioner of the Acadian District of Girl Guides; coached minor baseball; volunteered for fundraisers; organized benefits for locals in need; director for the Indian Sluice Seniors Club; member of the New Horizons, Club Acadien, and Village Friends; and is active in the Hospital Hullabaloo.

Audrey is known for her bright spirit, positive attitude, and boundless energy. It was motivating to hear from her at the Argyle Volunteer Awards on Friday night where we honoured many other volunteers. I'd like to thank Audrey for all of her hard work and dedication to making a difference in her community.

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

SMITH, DONNA & BRUCE - FOSTERING: RETIREMENT - THANKS

KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of two very special people in Hants Border. Since 2005, Bruce - or Bucky as he is known - and Donna Smith have fostered more than 75 young Nova Scotians.

They have welcomed into their home, and cared for, children as young as 6 weeks right up to 15-year-old young adults. Last November, Bucky and Donna retired as foster parents, taking with them a lifetime of memories of those who found a home in their home. One of those memories came last year in the form of an unexpected tribute when one of their former foster children asked Bucky to walk her down the aisle at her wedding.

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Foster parents serve a vital and indispensable role in our communities and it's a privilege for me today to honour these two fine citizens. On behalf of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, I want to extend sincere thanks to Bucky and Donna Smith for making a difference in the lives of so many of our young citizens.

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

MUNRO, SHEILA/ABERDEEN HOSP.: LIFE-SAVING ACTION - COMMEND

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, when seconds counted, staff at the Aberdeen Hospital saved the life of a Pictou County man. Bill Munro credits his wife Sheila, a former nurse, and the health care team at the Aberdeen Hospital for saving his life.

Following a medical procedure in Halifax on March 4^th, Munro returned home. Everything appeared to be fine when without warning he began to bleed uncontrollably from his mouth. He was met at the Aberdeen Hospital by a team of health professionals who immediately hooked up blood transfusions in both arms. The team packed the wounded area and stabilized Bill who was transported to Halifax by helicopter to undergo a second surgery.

Bill is now back at home and recovering. I would like to ask all members to join me and thank the Aberdeen Hospital professional staff for stabilizing Bill, so he could be transported to Halifax and placed on the road to recovery.

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

TREATY TRUCK HOUSE: MI'KMAW WATER PROTECTORS - COMMEND

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, in an unprecedented member statement, I don't have any notes, but I just wanted to talk a little bit about an experience I had yesterday.

My family and I drove up to Stewiacke where we went to the Treaty Truck House which is the camp where Mi'kmaw water protectors are housed and keeping watch over the Sipekne'katik River. I was honoured to be invited to participate in a water bundle ceremony by one of the water protectors, Dorene Bernard. It was an extremely moving experience and I just wanted to share it with the members that those people, the water protectors of our First Nations people are working on our behalf. They are protecting our lands, our waters, and our rivers. We need to stand in solidarity with them to protect our rivers, as well.

The Mi'kmaw people are the stewards of the land and we must listen to their voices when it comes to land protection and water protection.

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

SPENCER, MICHAEL: FIELD RESTORATION AWARD - LEGACY

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, Great Village, Colchester North, had a very active ball team for many years, but since 1988 the ball field has not been used.

Hay, small bushes, and trees were growing on both the infield and the outfield. A meeting was organized to bring the ball field back to playable condition. Initially, a few people came out to help, but it soon became evident that the responsibility for the project fell to Michael Spencer. With help from his parents and other family members, and hours of work on all their parts, the field began to look like a ball field once again.

Mike then began to promote minor baseball for players five to 13. The first year, 75 children registered and that increased each summer. Mike oversaw the league, coached, and with the help of his family and friends, kept the field in shape.

The ball field was named the Doug Peppard Memorial Field. A golf tournament in Doug's memory provides the main source of revenue for the upkeep of the field. At his 35^th annual awards dinner on March 3^rd, the Truro Sport Heritage Society honoured the athletic accomplishments of its local athletes and volunteers. Mike Spencer received the Sport Legacy Award for his dedication, work, and commitment to revitalizing the Great Village ball field and thus the ball teams for youth in the area. He has created a legacy to be enjoyed now and in the future.

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

NTL. VOLUN. WK.: THE VOLUN. FACTOR - IMPACT

TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Volunteer week, which is from April 7^th to April 13^th. The theme for 2019 is the Volunteer Factor - Lifting Communities. The Volunteer Factor emphasizes the huge impact volunteers have on our province. I believe we would all agree that volunteers are the heart and soul of our communities.

Everyday in our constituencies, we see volunteers tutoring people to read, helping at soup kitchens, collecting clothing and food, hosting community breakfasts, facilitating community cleanups, coaching teams, and lifting community pride. When people volunteer, our communities and province become stronger.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of this House to thank the volunteers in their constituencies, and I want to thank Volunteer Canada for facilitating National Volunteer week and reminding us how critical volunteers are to the strength, health and well-being of our province and country.

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[4:15 p.m.]

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

STREET CHECKS: DISCRIMINATORY - LISTEN

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, as this session moves towards a close, I want to speak about street checks for a moment.

Every individual is equal before and under the law without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age, or mental or physical disability. That's Section 15 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

But when the Black community spoke up and said that street checks are discriminatory, we didn't listen. When the stats came back and told us Black people in Nova Scotia were three times more likely to be stopped; when cases were taken to court and the Black community said, see we told you, now will you end street checks, this Chamber commissioned a study.

When that study came back and proved without prejudice - without question, Mr. Speaker - that the community was right that Black people in Nova Scotia are street checked six times more often than white people, did this government take the report's recommendations to end or put a temporary moratorium on the practice? No, Mr. Speaker, it did not.

Street checks as they are being practised, are discriminatory. They are a violation of the Charter. We don't need excuses and we don't need evidence. We need them to end.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.

ST-AMAND FAMILY: 5K TO BEAT LUNG CANCER - THANKS

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to note the achievement of a Bedford family. In 2008, Bedford resident Gerry St-Amand was diagnosed with lung cancer. In response, he and his family created the Bedford 5K to Beat Lung Cancer.

Gerry passed away from the disease in late 2009, and his wife Penny and sons Paul and Jean continued the run in his memory. Every year for 10 years, the St-Amand family and friends came together during Bedford Days to raise money to combat lung cancer.

Gerry St-Amand was well-known in Bedford circles. He served for 22 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, followed by more than 20 years at IMP Aerospace. Gerry was a passionate volunteer for Scouts Canada, the Bedford Waterfront Committee, the Black Duck Committee, Phoenix Youth Programs, and the provincial and federal Liberal Parties.

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I'd like to thank Penny, Paul, and Jean for creating this decade-long event, for raising more than $50,000 to help in the fight against lung cancer, and for remembering our friend Gerry.

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

TURNER, MIKE: STELLAR ATTENDANCE - COMMEND

LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to draw attention to an impressive record. Mike Turner of Truro Heights has not missed a single day of work in 35 years - remarkably, even a kidney stone didn't keep him away from his job.

While still a student, he was hired at the Truro Hospital on a casual basis in the summer of 1983. He has since moved up the ranks, currently working as part of the Nova Scotia Health Authority's supply chain operations team within the Colchester-East Hants Health Centre.

With a similar track record dating back to his school days, Mike attributes his stellar attendance to a strong immune system and deems himself extremely fortunate. He is grateful that his daughter appears to have the same inherited gene, so let's see if she can beat his record.

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

WORKING WHILE BLACK: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS - LISTEN

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, what to do in case of fire is a common fridge poster handed out in schools; it's an easy to read quick summary of what to do in the event of such an emergency. Another common such list is a list of emergency numbers. But, Mr. Speaker, there's another common such list in parts of Halifax, although I doubt it's familiar to all of us.

It reads: Know Your Rights; and it lists off recommended actions to take should you be stopped by the police. This is a reality in Black communities in Nova Scotia where discriminatory stops by police are so common, you need a fridge poster to remind you of what to do and what not to do to ensure your rights aren't violated any further.

Mr. Speaker, Working While Black began distributing these cards a year ago, when it became clear the government wasn't going to act on street checks until the much-anticipated Wortley report was released. Well, finally the report has been released and it proves what has been known all along - this practice is discriminatory and racist, and yet the government is still not listening to the community's cries to end it.

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Mr. Speaker, I implore the government to stop street checks and let everyone in Nova Scotia live safely, without fear of racism.

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

BEZANSON, KARISSA: COMBATTING CANCER - COMMEND

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : As April marks Cancer Awareness Month, it brings me great joy to share that 13-year-old Karissa Bezanson of Kingston is officially cancer-free.

Clarissa was diagnosed with biphenotypic acute leukemia for over two years. She fought a courageous battle, with her family there every step of the way. Recently, Clarissa celebrated this milestone after completing an 843-day period of chemotherapy treatments and other procedures with her family, friends, and a surprise guest from the Acadia Axemen hockey team at a celebratory event.

While Clarissa still has a few smaller medical challenges ahead of her, I know she will overcome these with the same sense of tenacity. I have great admiration for Clarissa and those who have fought, and continue to fight, the awful disease of cancer. People like Clarissa are why we must continue to work hard for a cure.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that members of the House join me in recognizing this important milestone for Karissa Bezanson and wish her continued good health.

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

MCCORMICK, PETER/MCCORMICK, ADRIENNE:

SPECIAL OLYMPICS - DEDICATION

BRAD JOHNS « » : April 7^th to 13^th is National Volunteer Week, when Canadians take time to recognize the contributions of volunteers in our communities.

Today I rise to specifically recognize Peter McCormick who is with the Special Olympics. Peter is the volunteer coordinator and coach of the multi-sport program. I also want to thank his daughter Adrienne, and all the dedicated volunteers who help make the Special Olympics multi-sport program a success. It is because of their dedication, compassion, and hard work that the programs numbers continue to grow.

Volunteers like Peter, Adrienne, and their team juggle school, work, and other extracurricular activities with their volunteer hours in multi-sport. As a result, athletes gain more confidence, learning to share and work on a team, or mastering an athletic skill.

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I want to thank them and salute them for all the hard work.

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

STREET CHECKS: COM. TRAUMA - ACT

LENORE ZANN « » : In September of last year, we tabled a petition calling for an end to police street checks. Part of that petition read: "the discriminatory use of street checks against Black people causes psychological trauma and disempowers Black communities."

Mr. Speaker, who do we sit in this Chamber for, if not the communities of Nova Scotia? When a community comes forward and says we are suffering collectively - not just one victim, not just one case, but all of us are affected by this - how long it will it take before we can take notice and listen to those voices?

They're telling us that this is traumatizing, it is disempowering, and it is dehumanizing. We are the ones with the ability to change this, to simply pass the legislation and take one step towards the healing that needs to be done, to step up and listen to these communities that we say that we represent. The right path isn't very hard to come by here.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the government to do what we were elected to do and what our jobs call upon us to do, and that is to stand up for our communities and bring an end to the damaging practice of street checks.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Antigonish.

STRAIT REG. SCI. FAIR: 20th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, students from the Strait area gathered for the 28^th Annual Strait Regional Science Fair from April 1^st to 3^rd, and I would like to congratulate all students, award recipients, and organizers for another successful event.

Special congratulations go to the following grand prize award winners, all from Antigonish: 1^st Overall and Best in Fair was Lyza Ells, a Grade 11 student at Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School, for her project No Harm, No Foul: Eco-friendly AntiFouling; 2^nd Overall were Annie Bloomfield and Malcolm Cameron, both Grade 12 students at Regional for their project titled, Grey is the Way; and 3^rd Overall was Reagan DeGruchy, a Grade 12 student at Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School, for his project titled Aww Shucks, Let's Talk About Oysters.

These important learning opportunities would not be possible without the effort and dedication of the people who plan and orchestrate these events. Mr. Speaker, I invite all members to join me in recognizing the members of the 2019 Science Fair Planning committee - Chair Andrew Clarey from the Cape Breton Highlands Education Centre/ Academy; Betsy Jardine, Wycocomagh Education Centre; Tracy MacIsaac, SAERC; Chris West, a retired teacher; Nathan Cormier, Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School; Stephanie MacDonald, Dalbrae Academy; Justin Fougere Richmond Education Centre/ Academy; and Mark Pettipas the SRCE Science Coordinator - and in wishing the finalists all the best as they advance to the next level.

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

BROWN, KATHIE: COM. SERV. - COMMEND

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, Kathie Brown started volunteering as a candy striper in the Berwick hospital. Since then, she has volunteered for many years at New Minas Elementary and Evangeline Middle School, helping with programs and fundraising initiatives. She has helped raise money for the local soccer association to organize regional tournaments and build soccer fields.

She has also been an integral part in supporting the Village of New Minas leadership representative, which includes things like the princess float, travelling to civic events with the princess and her child attendant, and being a part of the princess tea.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Kathie Brown for her dedication and commitment to the Village of New Minas.

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

STREET CHECKS: DISCRIMINATORY - BAN

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, in 2010, the then-mayor of Halifax apologized for the bulldozing and displacement of an entire community. Africville was razed in the 1960s. In 2010, this Chamber pardoned Viola Desmond for events in 1946. Last week, the restorative inquiry for the Home for Colored Children entered the final stage of a three-year process. The home began operating in the 1920s, and wasn't shut down until the 1980s.

Mr. Speaker, the history of people of African descent in Nova Scotia is a long and resilient one, and time and time again, governments come back to the community and apologize for behaviours and crimes of the past. That is a major part of restoration and reconciliation, but only part.

Today in Nova Scotia, Black communities still live under the weight of discrimination, oppression, and racism. That weight can make the formality of yesterday's apology ring less soundly when you're living in fear of being stopped just for walking down the street.

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This government has the opportunity to begin addressing the problems of today by banning the discriminatory practice of street checks. We know that it's wrong. We know the communities are suffering. We have the ability to end this now, not in a couple of years or somewhere down the road.

Mr. Speaker, how many times will we have to apologize for the past before we start fixing the present and building a future?

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Preston-Dartmouth.

LAKE ECHO LIONESS CLUB: 40^th ANNIV. - THANKS

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize the Lake Echo Lioness Club, which was chartered in 1979 by a group of women dedicated to serving others in the community. The Lake Echo Lioness Club is a volunteer service organization that supports charities such as the local food bank, Terry Fox, and individuals in need. The club responds whenever there is a need in the community.

The Lake Echo Lioness Club is celebrating the occasion of their 40^th Charter Night on May 4, 2019. I want to recognize and celebrate the Lake Echo Lioness Club for their dedication and ongoing efforts to make our community a better place for all.

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

WARRIORS BADMINTON: NSSAF CHAMPS. - CONGRATS.

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, on April 3^rd, the Liverpool Regional High School Warriors badminton team claimed the NSSAF Western Region Senior Championship banner in Par-en-Bas.

Coach Chris Framp is known in Queens County for being much more than just a coach. Known and loved as just "Framp," he goes above and beyond for his students and players, and on Wednesday his team went the distance for him.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Framp and his players: Ashton Gallant, Wyatt Motter, Sarah Collins, Grace Leaman, Talla Corkum, Brady Hanley, Lauren Amirault, and Caleb Kwan. You have made us all proud, not just of your victory but of the great sportsmanship and class that you exhibit wherever you go.

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

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STREET CHECKS: MORATORIUM - ACT

TAMMY MARTIN « » : Mr. Speaker, what evidence does a government need to validate a community's cries? My colleagues and I called for a moratorium on street checks over a year ago, when the study of the practice was ongoing. Back then, the rationale was that if a practice so much as hints at the idea of a violation of someone's rights, we should probably stop doing it, at least until we've figured out what's going on. But the minister wanted to wait and wanted to delay acting until the Wortley report was concluded.

Then when the report was released and the findings validated what the community has been saying for over a decade, the response from the government was still to not take action, to think on it more, to delay.

People's right are being violated. What the report calls discrimination, this government calls useful investigatory practices.

Mr. Speaker, our citizens are being targeted with this practice, and the government can't bring itself to simply pass a piece of legislation that would end it. It's shameful that we can sit here in this Chamber willingly and wilfully ignoring the problems that it's our job to address.

[4:30 p.m.]

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

KENAAN FAM.: FAM. REFUGEES, COM. SUPPORT - COMMEND

GORDON WILSON « » : Today, I want to recognize the continuing efforts of my community to welcome a family to our area. Rima, Shekrallah and their six children who arrived in Digby in 2015 have thrived and started Kenaan's Kitchen, a catering business. Despite this, part of their hearts remains overseas with Rima's family.

Rima's mother, three brothers, sister, and niece are presently living in a refugee camp in Tripoli and want to join the Kenaans here. They have applied to come to Canada and may arrive within a year or so. As they will be privately sponsored, the sponsor group will have to raise all of the $40,000 to bring the family members to Canada.

So far, Team Rima has raised over $12,000 from some 80 toonie cans passed out last summer, a Valentine's dinner at the Schoolhouse Café in Sandy Cove, and a fund-raising dinner in Freeport early in March. Upcoming fundraisers to get the remaining $40,000 needed to sponsor the family include selling Mother's Day truffles, a walk-a-thon, Paint Nights, and concerts.

I applaud the group's efforts to reunite this family, so they can all live here and thrive as the Kenaans have.

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

WILFRED ORAM LIBRARY STAFF: COM. HUB - THANKS

EDDIE ORRELL « » : I rise today to recognize the valuable role the Wilfred Oram Centennial Library plays in our community. It is so much more than a depository of books. Librarians Daphne Webber, Debbie Podetz, Cathy MacLeod, and Ruth Anne Gillis run Story Time, Toddler Time, Babies & Books, computer labs, science club, community groups, Adopt a Book Program, Fibre Lunch, outdoor fitness activities, snowshoe rentals, and radon detectors. Oh and yes, there are magazines, books, and videos on displays.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank these ladies for the role they play in building our community.

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

STREET CHECKS: SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE - ACT

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to add my voice to many Nova Scotians' voices who recognize that the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission report on street checks is enough, more than enough evidence of systemic racism in policing practices in this province. Black men, Professor Scot Wortley found after crunching Halifax Police's own data, are nine times more likely to be street checked than the rest of the population.

The report doesn't just have enough evidence, but it also has enough stories - like that of Trayvone Clayton, a 20-year-old Saint Mary's University student who both plays and coaches basketball, studies criminology, and aspires to study law. He shared his experience as a 16-year-old walking home from a party, travelling alone as he'd been advised, only to be confronted and eventually slammed to the sidewalk by a police officer.

Clayton helped lead a community meeting on street checks on March 30^th. He has shared his story in countless interviews and community meetings as well as part of the human rights process. Again, I say enough; he should not have to tell the story again. This government should say, enough - we believe you, it matters, and we will act.

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

W. HANTS. HIST. SOC.: DEDICATED VOLUNS. - THANKS

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HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : I'd like to recognize the West Hants Historical Society. The West Hants Historical Society is the centre for research and learning dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, and promotion of the rich heritage of West Hants region.

Based in Windsor, it operates a seasonal museum as well as the year-round genealogy and research department. The success of the society has been made possible through the service and dedication of many wonderful volunteers, but none come to mind in such remarkable light as John D. Wilson, Elliott Daniels, and Dean Baxter.

John Wilson joined the West Hants Historical Society in the early 1990s and has served twice as president. Elliott Daniels is a founding member of the West Hants Historical Society and, as he approaches his 90^th birthday this August, he is still a valued and active member of the board. Dean Baxter joined the West Hants Historical Society 25 years ago and with Elliott, has been responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the museum building on King Street.

All three of these gentlemen have gone above and beyond the call of duty as volunteers in the West Hants Historical Society and the board of directors feel that there is no better time than now to recognize their selfless and tireless contributions.

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

BURKE, KAITLIN: GIFT-CARD GIVEAWAY - THANKS

ALANA PAON « » : I rise today to bring acknowledgement to Kaitlin Burke of Sampsonville. Kaitlin is a 12-year-old Grade 7 student at East Richmond Education Centre.

Recently, Kaitlin's mom nominated Kaitlin for an award through Seaside Communications for her acts of kindness, for which she won $1,000.

Each year, around the holidays, Kaitlin saves her money with a little help from her mom and her sister, and she purchases gift cards from local businesses. Once the gift cards are in hand, Kaitlin then goes back to the local businesses she bought cards from and surprises lucky recipients by given them away.

Kaitlin is now tasked with using her $1,000 prize to once again pay forward her kindness. I ask the House to please join me in sending our appreciation to Kaitlin and her family as they work to continue to make the community a better place to live and to grow.

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

FLEMMING, STEPHEN: TOURISM INITIATIVE - THANKS

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HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Stephen Flemming of Sherbrooke. He serves as Executive Director of the Sherbrooke Village Museum and as a tourism ambassador working with the Guysborough County tourism strategy group.

Stephen has been part of a new tourism initiative being generated throughout the whole of Guysborough County, bringing together tourism service providers, operators, and stakeholders in the community.

This tourism working group seeks to build a voice for Guysborough County tourism and capacity within tourism operators. It has the ultimate goal of appealing to those near and far to come and see everything from museums to the natural beauty we have to offer.

Stephen has been emceeing these tourism workshops, of which there have been four so far, with more planned before the start of the summer tourism season as the Guysborough County tourism strategy develops and works towards its goals to increase and enhance tourism in our area.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Stephen for his contributions to this initiative, his efforts as the Guysborough County tourism ambassador, and his work with Sherbrooke Village and throughout the county.

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

DONACHIE, JOE - PHYSICIAN: ROTARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP - CONGRATS.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, today I'd like to recognize Joe Donachie of the Rotary Club of Amherst. He has been honoured with life membership in recognition of his 50 years with the club. He has served several terms on the board of directors and on many committees.

Joe is a big supporter of his community and involved in walkathons at Camp Tidnish. His first walkathon was in 1978, to help raise money for a van for a preschool program. Joe was chair of the Rotarian Home Exchange Fellowship for over 20 years.

Dr. Joe Donachie, anaesthetist, participated in eight Rotary-sponsored medical volunteer programs which took him to North Africa, the Caribbean, and the interior of Peru.

Joe is a valued member of our community and is a fine example of someone who gives back.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Joe for all his work in the community as a Rotarian.

[Page 2995]

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

JUICY FRUIT MARKET: 25^th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the success of Juicy Fruit Market, a family business started and operated by Samir Metlej of Armdale.

Juicy Fruit began as a small fruit and vegetable shop at the Armdale Rotary. As the little shop grew and Samir focused on the wholesale side of the operation, the shop relocated downtown before expanding to Bayers Lake. The business grew in size and became even more of a family affair as Samir's wife Violet, sons John and Sam, and daughter Lisa joined the business in financial and operational roles.

Today the Metlej family, through Juicy Fruit, provides high-quality fruits, vegetables, and herbs to numerous local restaurants, resorts, and hotels, all while focusing on sourcing from local suppliers. Juicy Fruit also gives back through donations to local churches, Feed Nova Scotia, Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank, and so many more.

Please join me in congratulating the Metlej family on over 25 years of success with Juicy Fruit Market.

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

PRENTICE, GUS - DENTIST: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

TORY RUSHTON » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Dr. Gus Prentice of Springhill, who passed after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Prentice practiced dentistry until he was 70 years of age, and he cared deeply about the community and those he went into battle with during the Second World War.

After retirement, Dr. Prentice continued to serve his fellow veterans, doing assessments on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada at various nursing homes and giving much comfort to those he visited. Dr. Prentice was very active in the community through various organizations, including the fundraising drive that built All Saints Hospital and the Centennial Golf Club.

Springhill and area will always remember Dr. Gus Prentice for the outstanding man he was and the many contributions he made to this great community.

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

FHES: HIST. CHALLENGE, PIT HOUSE - RECOG.

[Page 2996]

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, as part of African Heritage Month in February, many students across the province celebrated the provincial theme, "Our History is Your History," by learning how the unique history of African Nova Scotians is intertwined with the past, present, and future of all Nova Scotians.

At Fairview Heights Elementary, Mrs. Tolliver's Grade 6 class had an amazing entry for the Delmore "Buddy" Daye Learning Institute African Nova Scotian History Challenges. They created a model pit house to commemorate where many free Black Nova Scotians were forced to live to survive the winter. Recently, these students won a top award in the category representing African Nova Scotian communities.

I'm so proud of these amazing community members, so I ask the members of this House to join me in recognizing Mrs. Tolliver and her Grade 6 class on this impressive award.

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

BAUMHOUR, NICK: ST. F.X. FOOTBALL RECRUIT - CONGRATS.

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize constituent Nick Baumhour on his football recruitment to St. Francis Xavier University. Nick's interest in football began when he began Grade 10 at Auburn High School. He quickly realized his enjoyment and skill for the sport. This led Nick to try out for the Team Nova Scotia two times, which he made both years.

In his final year at Auburn High School, Nick was recruited and accepted to play football for the X-Men. Nick worked very hard for this achievement both on the field and off, meeting the academic requirements. Nick will be studying sports management in an Arts Degree Program this Fall.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in recognizing Nick Baumhour for all his hard work and dedication.

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

MACDONALD, SANDI - FOUNDER:

INTL. ASSOC. PREMENSTRUAL DISORDERS - CONGRATS.

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Sandi MacDonald, a resident of the Prospect community, for receiving the 2018 Gia Allemand Award for advancing peer support and advocacy for those in need. Sandi is the board president and founding member of the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders, a non-profit organization that provides education, support advocacy, and resources for those affected by premenstrual dysphoric disorder and premenstrual exacerbation of underlying disorders. This organization bridges the gap between mental and reproductive health.

[Page 2997]

I was especially pleased to learn about this award and learn that Sandi would not only identify a need in an important but little-known area of physical and mental health but also take concrete steps to organize volunteers to help others who otherwise might experience helplessness, loneliness, or even despair.

Mr. Speaker, Sandi MacDonald deserves the highest praise for her community service and I am certain that members of the House will join me in sharing my gratitude for those like Sandi who develop and implement a plan to meet an important need.

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

MCINNIS, WENDY: GAELIC STUDY - THANKS

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, whether from love of the music and sense of homage to heritage or a simple curiosity about languages, a group of beginning students gather once a week to learn Gaelic in Pictou County. The majority of people involved have ancestors who once spoke the language, but the closest claim any of them have is to grandmothers they never met who spoke Gaelic.

Wendy McInnis considers herself a Gaelic learner but is also a class instructor. MacInnis is working toward becoming fluent. Wendy grew up in Trenton, a town that once had many Gaelic speakers, many who moved to the town from Antigonish and Cape Breton.

Wendy works at NSCC and recently took a year's leave of absence to study Gaelic, attending classes at St. F.X., the Gaelic College in St. Ann's, and an immersion program on the Isle of Skye.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the citizens who have been learning Gaelic in one form or another for the past quarter century.

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

MACDONALD, NANCY: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to, through this privilege, an opportunity to mark the recent passing of a very special and strong volunteer, Nancy MacDonald of Fall River, at the venerable age of 87. Nancy was employed by the post office for over 20 years where she also wrote over thousands of Santa's letters for many children in the community.

Nancy was involved in many organizations in Fall River and area, such as seniors, fire departments, church groups, as a volunteer with the Fall River Lions Club for many years in preparing food for seniors' suppers.

[Page 2998]

Mr. Speaker, Nancy has been recognized and awarded the QEII Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank Volunteer Award for her many community involvements. Also, Nancy was renowned for her cake decorating and her beautiful gardens.

Mr. Speaker, Nancy MacDonald will be sadly missed by the family, friends and all of Fall River recognized her as their valuable presence in the community.

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

SACKVILLE RIVERS ASSOC.: 6^th ANN. DUCK RACE - THANKS

BRAD JOHNS « » : The Sackville River's Association has been around now for the past 30 years and this non-profit, volunteer-run charity is dedicated to preserving the rivers that run through Sackville and Bedford.

On Saturday, May 11^th, the association will be holding its 6^th annual Duck Race. This fun event is in support of both the Acadia Recreation Club and the Sackville Boys and Girls Club. Businesses and the public are welcome to participate by buying a rubber duck at the cost of $5.00 each, or you can get a deal of a quack-pack, three for $10.

The ducks are placed into the Little Sackville River and awards are then awarded to the owners, based on a first, second, and third place finish.

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank Walter Regan and all the volunteers of the Sackville Rivers Association and wish them all the best in this coming event.

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

GAZIE, SAIDA: VEITH HOUSE - THANKS

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to highlight and appreciate the work of Saida Gazie at Veith House. She has proven invaluable at connecting with women and children who were under the radar of other non-profit organizations. Especially the families of students here in Nova Scotia on student visas who are not eligible for programming from ISANS.

She has begun a conversation club, a sewing class, a newcomers' market and a new initiative called the Newcomers Kitchen Party, where a group of newcomers do the cooking for Halifax Needham members and neighbours.

[4:45 p.m.]

[Page 2999]

A relative newcomer herself, but a Nova Scotian now, Saida is warm, creative, and energetic and we are all better off that she has found a place at Veith House to offer her considerable gifts to the world.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Chester-St. Margaret's.

PAULEY, GERALDINE: CONSTIT. AFFAIRS - THANKS

HUGH MACKAY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize, to celebrate and to thank a tireless supporter for the communities and people of Chester-St. Margaret's.

Mr. Speaker, Ms. Geraldine Pauley started her political and community activism working on Pierre Trudeau's 1968 campaign. Subsequently, she worked with such notable political figures as Lloyd Axworthy, Mary Clancy, and Graham Steele. More recently, Geraldine served as the constituency assistant for my predecessor as MLA for beautiful Chester-St. Margaret's. Now, because of her dedication to our communities, I'm fortunate that she serves us still as my consistency affairs manager.

Mr. Speaker, I ask the members of this House to join me in thanking Ms. Geraldine Pauley, for her ongoing service to our communities.

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

QUEENS CO. YOUTH: DUKE OF ED. BRONZE AWARD - CONGRATS.

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards offer an opportunity for our youth to be engaged community members, be physically active, and experience adventure. That said, these awards require participants to work very hard in several categories in order to merit them.

Under the guidance and time of Troy Smith, Crystal Stewart-Smith, and Cassandra Williams, this worthwhile program was offered to youth in Queens County. Guidance and time well spent, and much appreciated.

Mr. Speaker, in December, five young people from Queens merited and were presented with this Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. I would like to acknowledge Ellen Raddall, Keegan Oickle, Georgia Williams, Ella Stevens, and Jordyn Duffney, and congratulate them all on achieving such a distinguished accomplishment. You are wonderful role models for our youth, and I wish you every future success.

THE SPEAKER « » : I just want to remind all members that members' statements should be directed through the Chair and not speaking directly to the subject of your members' statements. I've heard several of them that are addressing the topic of the members' statement directly so, just a point of clarification.

[Page 3000]

The honourable member for Lunenburg.

SAUNDERS, SCOTT: WALL OF FAME - CONGRATS.

SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Scott Saunders of Lunenburg who was recently inducted into the Lunenburg County's Sport Heritage Society Wall of Fame.

The Lunenburg County Sport Heritage Society recognizes individuals who have made a distinct and valued contribution to sport through their connection to Lunenburg County. Throughout his curling career, Scott has compiled a long list of impressive accomplishments. Scott skipped the Nova Scotia Junior Men's Curling Championship winners in 1975, 1977, and 1978. In 1975, he was recognized as the All-Star Skip at the Canadian Junior Men's Curling Championship.

Scott's achievements in the world of curling continued throughout the years as skip for mixed curling teams, men's curling teams, and senior men's curling teams. Scott was no stranger to being the skip in a number of championship games.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask that you and the members of this House of Assembly please join me in congratulating Scott on being inducted into the Lunenburg County Sport Wall of Fame.

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

MADISON'S ANGELS: ACTS OF KINDNESS - THANKS

EDDIE ORRELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a rather remarkable group of more than 200 members called Madison's Angels.

Last year a North Sydney teenager took her own life. Madison Wilson was bullied and was unable to cope. Madison's Angels started as a group of friends who wanted to do random acts of kindness in Madison's memory. They gathered over a hundred hats, mittens, and jackets to help the SPCA and the Abandoned Cat Society.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Madison's Angels as they find a way to heal, do something positive in her memory, and help the community.

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

WHEELDON, LINDA: VOLUN. OF THE YR. - RECOG.

[Page 3001]

KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, as I travel around my constituency, I always find it so heartening to witness the phenomenal work of volunteers. These local heroes often do not get the recognition they deserve and that's why it's always a great pleasure to rise in the House to publicly thank someone who has gone above and beyond to give back to the community.

Today I would like to recognize an exceptional Kings South volunteer, Linda Wheeldon. Linda has always been deeply committed to improving the lives of her fellow citizens, with a special interest in mental health and well-being. Her involvement in a myriad of important organizations - including the Women of Wolfville Theatre Collective, the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists, the Workshop Council of Nova Scotia, the Flower Cart, and the Deep Roots Music Co-operative - has contributed greatly to the health and vibrancy of our community.

Linda's extraordinary efforts were recently celebrated at the Provincial Volunteer Awards and I ask all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in congratulating her on that well-deserved award and in thanking her for her many contributions to our community.

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

HATHEWAY, KATHERINE: COM. VOLUN. - THANKS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Today, I would like to recognize community volunteer Katherine Hatheway. Katherine has a long history of volunteering and making our community a better place to live.

Most recently she serves on the Cumberland Health Care Foundation as our chair of the board of directors. Katherine has also volunteered at the Trinity-St. Stephen United Church playgroup for years. In recent years Katherine has shared her musical talents, helping many non-profits raise funds. She is a woman of many talents and shares them for the betterment of our community.

Please join me in thanking Katherine Hatheway for all of her work and efforts to make our community a better place to live.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth.

LITTLE FAM.: VOLUN. FAM. OF THE YR. - CONGRATS.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : The Little family of Yarmouth County has been named the Provincial Volunteer Family of the Year for 2019.

Jeff and Erika Little and their children, Alex and Emma, have lived in the Yarmouth area since 2008 and began volunteering as a way to meet members of their new community.

[Page 3002]

Since then, Jeff, as a board member with the Yarmouth Hospital Foundation, created and shares the annual WE CARE Radiothon, a fundraiser initiative which benefits the Yarmouth Hospital. Erika, Emma, and Alex also volunteer their time for this event. To date, $300,000 has been raised to purchase much-needed hospital equipment for Yarmouth Regional. Jeff also co-founded and chairs the 100 Guys Who Share, which has donated more than $130,000 to local charities. Jeff was also named the 2019 Provincial Volunteer of the Year for the Municipality of Yarmouth.

Erika devotes her time to Rotary and the Interact Club, and is a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, the Yarmouth and Area Chamber of Commerce, the local 100 Meals program, and school advisory councils. Daughter Emma Little transformed her small high school Rotary Interact Club into the largest in Atlantic Canada. Son Alex then worked to create a new Rotary Interact Club at the junior high level, where he leads the club as president. The entire Little family has been involved in Scouts Canada.

I wish this House to join me in congratulating the Little family for being named Provincial Volunteers of the Year.

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

GOSMAN, STERLING - PASTOR: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay homage to Sterling Gosman, a friend and long-time Pastor of Visitation and Care at New Minas Baptist Church. After 12 years, Pastor Sterling Gosman will be retiring again, as he had already completed 33 years with Fredericton CBC.

Pastor Sterling has provided loving care to many families in their time of greatest need. He has been a great inspiration to a whole community. We saw him on his early morning walks, and he will always be remembered for his exuberance from the pulpit.

After two careers, three children - Neville, Teah, and Measha - and six grandchildren, and all that with Anne, the teenage love of his life by his side, I want to wish him a long retirement, good health, and happiness.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

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

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, may I make an introduction?

THE SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

[Page 3003]

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : I would like to draw the members' attention to the gallery opposite, where we have a few people who have just joined us. We have Amina Abiwajy; we have El Jones, whom the House would know is a prominent poet, journalist, professor, activist, and many other amazing things; and we also have Katrina Jarvis, who is a social work student in my constituency office in Dartmouth North. Katrina is in her third year of social work at Dalhousie. She has been an invaluable addition to the work that we do in case work in our office. I'm really happy to welcome her to the House again. (Applause)

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

WALKER, DAVID: VOLUN. OF THE YR. - CONGRATS.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize David Walker, Bridgewater's 2019 Provincial Volunteer representative.

For the past 40 years, David has been an integral member of our community as an educator, a coach, a volunteer, and an elected official. He served 25 years in municipal government, 13 years as a councillor; 8 years as deputy mayor; and 4 years as mayor.

This experience provided David with a gateway to volunteering with several organizations, including Safe Communities Lunenburg County, the Bridgewater Police Commission and President of the Nova Scotia Association of Police Governance. David is also an active member of the Bridgewater United Church Council, an announcer at the Bridgewater Junior A Lumberjacks hockey games and a member of the Park View Education Centre's SAC, and Alzheimer's Awareness breakfast team.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in thanking David Walker for his contribution as a volunteer and for helping guide the growth of Bridgewater.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Antigonish.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS COM.: COMMEM. CAIRN - THANKS

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, last summer the community of Antigonish hosted the 2018 Special Olympics, National Summer Games. Among the many special touches that the organizing committee came up with was the idea to create a monument - a cairn - to hold the cauldron that would be made from stones from every province and territory in Canada; the idea being that no matter where an athlete came from, they could see and feel a little piece of their home symbolically included in a centrepiece of the celebration.

Designed by Councillor Andrew Murray and constructed by Francis Arsenault of South River Stone and Glenn Arsenault of Arsenault Monuments, the cairn became a proud addition to the stunning set created by the local committee and a wonderful prop in countless selfies.

[Page 3004]

On March 26^th this beautiful creation was installed at its permanent home in the Antigonish Cairn Park which sits across the road from St. F.X., where the games were held. It is a proud addition to the series of cairns in the park, each of which represents a major Scottish clan that settled in Antigonish. Now we have added the Special Olympics Cairn to help us remember the many special guests we hosted from every part of Canada in 2018.

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

SADEK, JOS. - PSYCHIATRIST:

BOOK, GUIDE TO SUICIDE RISK ASSESSMENT - THANKS

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important research being conducted by Dr. Joseph Sadek.

Dr. Sadek, a psychiatrist, medical director of the Atlantic Mental Health Clinic and an associate professor of psychiatry at Dalhousie is doing vitally important work on mental health and wellness.

Recently Dr. Sadek and the Canadian Mental Health Foundation's Nova Scotia Division held a public event to discuss his book, A Clinician's Guide to Suicide Risk Assessment and Management. I understand this new book is his fourth, having last published A Clinician's Guide to ADHD, and Clinician's Guide to ADHD Comorbidities in Children and Adolescents.

I want to thank Dr. Sadek for his research and encourage all members and Nova Scotians to get informed about the realities of living with severe and chronic mental illness.

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

BOYLES, SADIE: HILLSIDE COM. CTR. - BEST WISHES

TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, a little community in Pictou East has a big dream and I am sure this dream will become a reality. Sadie Boyles lives in Hillside, a small community where once upon a time you knew everyone who lived in the community. She overheard a lady, whom she didn't recognize, tell someone she lived in Hillside and Sadie recalled the day when she would have known every single resident.

From that conversation came the idea of a community centre where locals could gather, interact and truly become neighbours and friends. From there the Hillside Community Society was formed. People came together to plan, the county donated land where a school once stood, and the fundraising race is on.

[Page 3005]

Thank you, Sadie, for the inspiration and best wishes to you and the society.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.

SILKEN LINGERIE: BREAST HEALTH - THANKS

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to congratulate the owner and staff of Silken Lingerie in Bedford for their continued efforts to promote breast cancer awareness.

For the past four years Silken Lingerie has help a fundraising fashion show at Sunnyside Mall. The event held last October, Women Wine and Underwire, raised $2,000 for the IWK Breast Health Centre.

In connection with the fundraiser Silken Lingerie's suppliers also donated thousands of dollars in underwear to local women's shelters. I would note that Silken Lingerie sells more than undergarments, swimwear, and nightgowns. The store also sells post-mastectomy garments, and the owner and staff deal with their clients, who are often still reeling from a cancer diagnosis, with compassion and caring.

I'd like to congratulate owner Morva Castellani, Store Manager Debbie Chisholm, Public Relations Manager Adele Hallal and the staff of Silken Lingerie on their continued support for breast health and breast cancer survivors. Well done.

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

MAYBE, TRISTIN: NSCC ACAD. AWARDS - CONGRATS.

TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm sharing a good news story and how it came about. Tristin Maybe of Westville, a second-year student at Pictou Campus, NSCC, was the recipient of a bursary based on financial need and a scholarship which is merit-based, both from MacDonald & Murphy Inc., Chartered Professional Accountants. With average marks of 90, Tristin is deserving of these awards.

Kevin MacDonald and his business partner Heather Murphy established two financial awards for NSCC students taking Business Administration with accounting concentrations. This firm, by removing financial worries for a student, allows that student to afford an education that can impact their entire life.

Business helping students defines paying it forward, and I ask the members of this House to congratulate both the company and the student.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

[Page 3006]

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Government Motions.

GOVERNMENT MOTIONS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and the House resolve itself into Committee of the Whole on Supply.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is carried.

[5:00 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CW on Supply with Deputy Speaker Suzanne Lohnes-Croft in the Chair.]

[9:17 p.m. CW on Supply rose and the House reconvened with Deputy Speaker Suzanne Lohnes-Croft in the Chair.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The Chair of the Committee of the Whole on Supply reports:

THE CLERK » : That the Committee of the Whole on Supply has met and made some considerable progress and begs leave to sit again.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : This concludes the government's business for today. I move that the House do now rise and sit again tomorrow, Tuesday, April 9^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.

Business, of course, will include the daily routine and Question Period, followed by the Committee of the Whole on Supply; with time permitting, third reading for Bill Nos. 92, 103, 105, 109, and 112; as well as the Committee of the Whole House on Bills, Bill Nos. 106, 119, 121, 135, and 139.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House rise to meet again on Tuesday, April 9^th, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.

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

The motion is carried.

[Page 3007]

We stand adjourned until tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.

[The House rose at 9:19 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 3008]

RESOLUTION NO. 968

By: Hon. Lena Diab (Halifax Armdale)

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

Whereas Steve Foran of Armdale is a father, a grandfather, engineer, and former professor at Saint Mary's University with the ambitious dream of 1 billion happier people worldwide; and

Whereas Steve, through his professional career, has learned a lot about the importance of an organization's culture to its overall success and has used his insights to develop Gratitude at Work, through which he teaches business leaders how to build and maintain workplace cultures based on the important principle of gratitude; and

Whereas Steve's courses and his work with human resources professionals, directors, managers, and CEOs has culminated in the recent publication of his book Surviving to Thriving: The 10 Laws of Grateful Leadership, and I was grateful to be invited to attend his book launch at St. Agnes Church Hall this month;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in applauding Steve Foran on his new publication and wish him continued success with his business and with shifting our workplace cultures one organization at a time.

RESOLUTION NO. 969

By: Hon. Lena Diab (Halifax Armdale)

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

Whereas Meals on Wheels has, since their inception in 1969, delivered fresh, nutritious, and affordable meals to community members who, due to their age, health, or disability, are unable to prepare food for themselves; and

Whereas Halifax Meals on Wheels relies on Northwood Care Inc. for meal preparation and the generosity of their team of local volunteers and donors to deliver their important service; and

Whereas on April 11^th, Halifax Meals on Wheels will mark their 50^th anniversary with an AGM at the Anglican Church of the Apostles on Bayers Road;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating the Halifax Meals on Wheels team for half a decade of volunteerism and service and thank the organization and its volunteers for all they do to improve the health and lives of people in our community.

[Page 3009]

RESOLUTION NO. 970

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas Private George Herman Baker of the North Shore Regiment from Liverpool fought for his country in the Second World War and sadly passed away in 2003 at the age of 80; and

Whereas his image appears on the newly minted 2019 silver dollar coin commemorating the 75^th anniversary of D-Day; and

Whereas his daughter, Karen McLeod from Liverpool, was overwhelmed to be presented with one of the coins after researchers discovered that it was the face of her father taken from grainy black and white news footage which was imprinted on the coin;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour Private Baker and his comrades for their bravery in the Second World War, where at the age of 20 he fought for his country and survived the horrors of war.

RESOLUTION NO. 971

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas the late Mike Harris of Shelburne County passed away on January 29 at 70 years of age; and

Whereas he was a pioneer in Nova Scotia sustainable forestry practices and once authored a book on Shelburne County pine forests; and

Whereas his expertise spanned all aspects of the forestry industry from silviculture to sustainable management to operating Christmas tree farms to mentoring younger persons in the industry;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize Mike's contribution to sustainable management of both Shelburne County forests and to Nova Scotia's forestry industry as a whole, benefiting all Nova Scotians for generations to come due to his passion, dedication, and commitment.

[Page 3010]

RESOLUTION NO. 972

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas 15-year-old J.T. Urquhart plunged himself into icy water in Shelburne harbour on New Year's Eve as a fundraiser; and

Whereas the funds were in support of his friend, Maya Trevors, who was part of a Shelburne County Me to We group that travelled to Nairobi, Kenya, in March to build a school and water stations; and

Whereas J.T. had no idea what he was letting himself in for but survived the polar plunge, raising over $400 for Maya's trip;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate J.T. Urquhart for his bravery in completing the polar plunge to fundraise in order to assist a friend who is trying to make a difference in the world.

RESOLUTION NO. 973

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Shelburne Pee Wee Flames assisted the Shelburne Loyalist Food Bank by packing groceries at the local grocery store and collected cash donations worth $550; and

Whereas they used this money to buy groceries, consulting both the flyer and the food bank list, donating the groceries and some money to the food bank in the run up to Christmas; and

Whereas this young hockey team was participating in the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup, where the winning submission receives $100,000 for a charity of the winning team's choice;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne Pee Wee Flames hockey team on their dedication and generosity in helping those less fortunate than themselves.

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RESOLUTION NO. 974

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas World Health Day is celebrated globally on April 7^th each year, the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization; and

Whereas it aims to draw attention to important health issues facing the world each year; and

Whereas the theme for 2019 is Universal Health Coverage: Everyone, Everywhere, ensuring everyone can obtain the care they need, when they need it, right in the heart of the community;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize that millions of people around the world still have access to no health care at all, and millions more are forced to choose between health care and other vital expenses like food, shelter, and clothing.

RESOLUTION NO. 975

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Sarah Bussey on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

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RESOLUTION NO. 976

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Amber Longley on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 977

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Kalie Ross on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

[Page 3013]

RESOLUTION NO. 978

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Tessa Fee on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 979

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Eva Lumsden on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

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RESOLUTION NO. 980

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Sienna White on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 981

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Lauren Jonasson on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

[Page 3015]

RESOLUTION NO. 982

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Annika Power on her hard work throughout the season and her determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 983

By: Hon. Iain Rankin (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls basketball team came into the city finals ranked number two overall and their first game was against a very tough team; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls worked extra hard and, through a "never give up" attitude, pulled out a narrow win of 40 to 39; and

Whereas the SLAM U12 girls team was put straight into the championship game against the number one ranked team, one of the toughest teams in the league, with only eight players and no spares, and the SLAM U12 girls team worked their hearts out and didn't disappoint;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Coach Dave Longley on his hard work throughout the season and his determination to win the championship game and bring home the gold medal.

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RESOLUTION NO. 984

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Quinpool Road business participated in a lively decorating contest this past holiday season; and

Whereas Quinpool Shoe Repair achieved first place in the contest, Chung's Tailor Shop achieved second place, and Finer Things Antiques achieved third place;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the contest winners, and thank them for bringing their festive spirit to Quinpool Road

RESOLUTION NO. 985

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Halifax author, journalist, and tourism operator Blair Beed has had a lifelong interest in the history of the Halifax Explosion, beginning with stories passed down from family members and friends; and

Whereas his 2018 exhibit at Saint Patrick's Church, part of Remembering 100 Years Since the Halifax Explosion, garnered attention throughout Canada and the United States; and

Whereas Blair Beed received the 2019 Charitable Irish Society Award in recognition of his efforts to bring to light the role played by Irish Americans in the recovery efforts following the Explosion;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly commends Blair on all these efforts, and seconds the awards and accolades he has received in recognition of them.

RESOLUTION NO. 986

[Page 3017]

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Dr. Emily Black, Dr. Sheri Price, Dr. Cheryl Kozey, and Dr. Leah Cahill, researchers at Dalhousie University, each received a Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation Award; and

Whereas Dr. Black and Dr. Price received Establishment Grants, which assist in building research capacity and provide initial support for new health researchers in Nova Scotia by funding investigator- and curiosity-driven research across NSHRF's four health research categories; and

Whereas Dr. Cahill and Dr. Kozey received Development/Innovative Grants, which provide funding for developing or innovative health research initiatives in Nova Scotia, in order to strengthen a submission to a targeted peer-reviewed research funding competition;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulates Dr. Black, Dr. Price, Dr. Kozey and Dr. Cahill on their awards and for contributing to health research in Nova Scotia.

RESOLUTION NO. 987

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Common Roots Urban Farm has found a new home at BiHi Park, located at the bottom of Bayer's Road in Halifax; and

Whereas Common Roots has spent seven years in their former location at the intersection of Robie and Bell Road, where they connected neighbourhoods in the middle of the Halifax Peninsula; and

Whereas Common Roots represents an important piece of food security and community-building in Halifax;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly thank Common Roots for their contribution to their former neighbourhood, and wish them all the best in their new home in BiHi Park.

RESOLUTION NO. 988

[Page 3018]

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Halifax entrepreneur Jackie Turner is set to open UpEast, a new rope-climbing gym and bouldering facility in the former Oxford Theatre location; and

Whereas the Nahas family purchased the Oxford Theatre building with the intent to see this landmark remain an important community asset, and UpEast will contribute to the fulfillment of this vision; and

Whereas this new venture will offer Halifax's West End an alternative fitness destination;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly welcome Jackie Turner and UpEast to Quinpool Road, and wish them all success in this venture.

RESOLUTION NO. 989

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas Garrison Brewing is set to open a taproom and community space attached to Halifax's old Oxford Theatre in the former Elegant Touch Beauty Salon location; and

Whereas the Nahas family purchased the Oxford Theatre building with the intent to see this landmark remain an important community asset, and the Garrison taproom will contribute to the fulfillment of this vision; and

Whereas this new venture will offer Halifax's West End a local craft beer destination;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly welcome Garrison Brewing to Quinpool Road, and wish them all success in this venture.

RESOLUTION NO. 990

[Page 3019]

By: Gary Burrill (Halifax Chebucto)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Artistic Men's gymnastics team won the bronze medal at the 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red Deer, Alberta; and

Whereas this is the historic first team medal in gymnastics for Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the team's strong routines on floor, bar, parallel bars, pommel horse, rings, and vault yielded a result of 298.75 points;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulates team members Christopher Bearne, Andrew Gallant, Vincent D'Entremont, Landon Duquette, and Alex Watters for their achievement, and together with their coaches David Kikuchi and Nick Lenehan, for proudly representing Nova Scotia at the Canada Winter Games.

RESOLUTION NO. 991

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas Earth Day is on April 22^nd, which aims to raise awareness of environmental issues facing the world today; and

Whereas the theme this year is "Protect our Species."; and

Whereas some of their goals are to educate and raise awareness about the accelerating rate of extinction of millions of species, achieving major policy victories that protect broad groups of species as well as individual species and their habitats, encouraging people to embrace nature and its values, and encouraging individual actions such as volunteering with the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute here in Kempt, Nova Scotia;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly encourage everyone to make every day an Earth Day!

RESOLUTION NO. 992

[Page 3020]

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas Shelburne Harbour Yacht Club will be welcoming the world this August for the 2019 Albacore International Championship Regatta; and

Whereas this world-class sailing event, featuring 15-foot sailing dinghies, will attract at least 50 teams from throughout North America and Europe between August 24^th to 30^th; and

Whereas hosting an event of this size and scope will provide an enormous economic benefit for Shelburne and area;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne Harbour Yacht Club, and the community, on being awarded this prestigious event.

RESOLUTION NO. 993

By: Kim Masland (Queens-Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Queens County PeeWee Cougars are great community citizens, doing good deeds and giving back to seniors; and

Whereas they shopped, filled, and delivered Christmas stockings to seniors and also held an afternoon skate with school friends with ASD and ADHD; and

Whereas they were participating in the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup, where the winning submission received $100,000 for a charity of the winning team's choice;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Queens County PeeWee Cougars hockey team on their service to others by both improving the lives of seniors and their friends with ASD and ADHD.

RESOLUTION NO. 994

By: Claudia Chender (Dartmouth South)

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia House of Assembly Policy on the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment in the Workplace states, "Everyone has a right to be treated with respect and has a responsibility to treat others the same way"; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia House of Assembly Policy on the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment in the Workplace defines "harassment" as "any behaviour, act, conduct or comment . . . that the person knew or ought reasonably to have known would be unwelcome and cause offence or harm; would demean, belittle, intimidate, threaten, distress, humiliate or embarrass; would affect a person's reputation; would endanger a person's job, undermine job performance, threaten economic livelihood or interfere with one's career; would be discrimination on account of one or more factors listed in the Human Rights Act; would be bullying as defined under the Education Act; or would be cyberbullying as defined under the Cyber-safety Act or under another Act"; and

Whereas the Premier recently downplayed allegations that a member of the government caucus had harassed former members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, suggesting that the accused member is "passionate" and "enthusiastic";

Therefore be it resolved that that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly call on the Premier to apologize for dismissing concerns raised about harassment within the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.

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