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October 8, 2019

  HANSARD19-52

DEBATES AND PROCEEDINGS

Speaker: Honourable Kevin Murphy

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

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



Second Session

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTSPAGE
 

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS:
Govt. (N.S.): Rails to Trails, Ltrs. of Auth. - Review,
3841
Govt. (N.S.): Retail Single-use Plastics,
3842
PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
Law Amend. Comm.,
3842
GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION:
Res. 1261, Mental Illness Awareness Wk.: Decrease Stigma - Recog.,
3843
Vote - Affirmative
3844
Res. 1262, Elizabeth, Cromwell - LL.D. (h.c.):  Death of - Tribute, 
3844
Vote - Affirmative
3844
Res. 1263, Coptic Orth. Church: Visit, Bishop Boulos - Congrats.,
3845
Vote - Affirmative
3845
Res. 1264, Fire Prevention Wk.: Safety Planning - Recog.,
3845
Vote - Affirmative
3846
INTRODUCTION OF BILLS:
No. 180, Fatality Investigations Act,
3846
No. 181, Public Utilities Act,
3847
No. 182, Health-care Crisis Reporting Act,
3847
No. 183, Digby Town and Municipal Housing Corporation in the Town of Digby,
An Act to Exempt from Taxation the Property of the, Hon. G. Wilson »
3847
No. 184, Emergency Health Services Act,
3847
No. 185, Affordable Hearing Aids for Seniors Act,
3847
No. 186, Fair Drug Pricing Act,
3847
STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS:
Flemming, Jim: Retirement - Congrats.,
3847
Hemodialysis Unit: Treatment Relocation - Ill-planned,
3848
Hfx. Wanderers: Fostering Com. Unity - Congrats.,
3848
Taylor, Rebecca/Furlong, Ron: Gritty to Pretty - Congrats.,
3849
TYP Prog. (Dalhousie Univ.): Transforming Lives - Recog.,
3849
Thomas, Kavita: Com. Spirit - Recog.,
3850
Leuschner, Adam - Teacher: Wigwam Classroom - Congrats.,
3850
MacNeil, Scott: Death of - Tribute,
3850
Kinsman, Emmanuelle: Ntl. Ballet Sch. Admission - Congrats.,
3851
Urban Hair: 20th Anniv. - Congrats.,
3851
EHS Workers: #CodeCritical - Recog.,
3852
Rawding, Hilary: Track Athl. - Congrats.,
3852
Friends of McNabs: Beach Cleanup - Congrats.,
3853
Stone Soup: Com. Theatre - Congrats.,
3854
Hall, Dave: Retirement - Congrats.,
3854
MacDonald, Larry: Retirement - Congrats.,
3854
McHugh, Ed: Volun. of the Yr. - Congrats.,
3855
MacLean, Scott: Com. Serv. - Thanks,
3855
Bentley, Morley: Open House - Congrats.,
3856
MacMillan, Luke: Cdn. Jr. Hockey Scholar - Congrats.,
3856
Gran Fondo: 5th Ann. Event - Congrats.,
3857
Lewis, Joe: Health Intervention - Best Wishes,
3857
Milling Frolic: 86th Ann. Event - Thanks,
3858
Barkhouse, Michael: Carnegie Hero - Congrats.,
3858
Fire Prevention Wk.: Plan Your Escape - Thanks,
3859
Canso Scouts: 50 Yrs. of Scouting - Congrats.,
3859
Canning Fire Dept.: Recent Fire - Congrats.,
3859
Emerg. Serv. Personnel: Dedication - Thanks,
3860
Lawen, George and Genevieve: 50th Anniv. - Congrats.,
3860
Ellis, Colton: NHL Draft - Congrats.,
3861
Angus, Bob/Angus, Ian: Com. Serv. - Thanks,
3861
Orrell, Eddie: Com. Serv. - Thanks,
3862
Lions Club: Softening the Effects of Poverty - Recog.,
3862
Dancing with the Stars: Supporting Hospice - Congrats.,
3863
Wild Blueberry Corner Mural: Com. Effort - Congrats.,
3863
Joe Howe Superstore: Support During Hurricane Dorian - Thanks,
3863
Bates, Cathy: Com. Advocate - Thanks,
3864
MacMaster, Duncan - Catholic Pastor: 55 Yrs. of Scouting Serv. - Congrats.,
3864
Sponagle-Taylor, Deborah: Nurturing Young Artists - Recog.,
3865
Found, Bob/Wilkes, Barbara: SPCA Fundraising - Congrats.,
3865
Family 1st Medical: Com. Resource - Congrats.,
3866
ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS:
No. 749, H&W - C.B. Reg. Hosp.: Adult Patients - Pediatric Unit,
3867
No. 750, Govt. (N.S.) - ERs: Flu Season - Preparedness,
3868
No. 751, Govt. (N.S.) - NSHA: Physicians - Distrust,
3869
No. 752, H&W - C.B. Reg. Hosp.: Adult Patients - Pediatric Unit,
3872
No. 753, N.S. Gaming Corp.: ALC: Political Adverts. - Responsibility,
3873
No. 754, Fish. & Aqua. - Cooke Aqua.: N.S. Operations - Safeguards,
3874
No. 755, Agric. - Frost Loss Prog.: Participation - Satisfactory,
3875
No. 756, Agric. - Buy Local: Food Growers - Support,
3876
No. 757, Fin. & Treasury Bd. - Hurricane Dorian: Crane Removal - Cost,
3877
No. 758, Agric. - Dike Improvements: Agric. Marshland Conserv. -
Consult., J. Lohr « »
3878
No. 759, TIR - Halfway Riv. Aboiteau: Culvert - Mistake,
3879
No. 760, Agric. - USMCA: Exports - Update,
3880
No. 761, Agric. - Cumb. N.: Local Food Strategy - Details,
3881
No. 762, EMO - Framboise-Fourchu: Cellphone Towers - Update,
3882
No. 763, H&W - CBRM Health: Redev. Plans - Basis,
3884
No. 764, EMO - North Sydney Fire Hall: Generator Cost - Mitigate,
3885
POINT OF ORDER: Hon. K. Casey « »
3886
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS:
PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING:
No. 175, Marine Renewable-energy Act
3886
3888
3889
3890
3892
Vote - Affirmative
3893
No. 177, Public Utilities Act
3893
3895
3895
3896
Vote - Affirmative
3896
ADJOURNMENT, House rose to meet again on Wed., Oct. 9th at 1:00 p.m
3897
NOTICE OF QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN ANSWERS:
No. 4, Mun. Affs. & Housing: HRM Charter: Funding for Wheelchair-accessible
Taxis - Facilitate Funding, G. Burrill « »
3898
No. 5, Com. Serv.: Children in Designated Places of Safety - Data Requested,
3898
No. 6, Com. Serv.: Adoption Records Disclosure - Status Update,
3899
NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3):
Res. 1265, Turner, Arthur - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3900
Res. 1266, Prest, Boyd - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3900
Res. 1267, Verge, Carter - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3901
Res. 1268, Bellefontaine, Dale - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3901
Res. 1269, Churchill, Dennis - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3902
Res. 1270, Meldrum, Doug - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3902
Res. 1271, Vanbuskirk, Forest - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3903
Res. 1272, Walsh, Frank - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3904
Res. 1273, Leslie, Haley - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3904
Res. 1274, Lowe, Shane - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3905
Res. 1275, Boutilier, Jeff - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3905
Res. 1276, Asprey, John - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3906
Res. 1277, Day, John - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3906
Res. 1278, MacIsaac, John - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3907
Res. 1279, Jennings, Josh - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3907
Res. 1280, Lacey, Laurenda - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3908
Res. 1281, Boutilier, Louis - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3909
Res. 1282, Bezanson, Marlow - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3909
Res. 1283, Young, Michael - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3910
Res. 1284, Allen, Mitchell - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3910
Res. 1285, Keizer, Noble - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3911
Res. 1286, Imlay, Randy - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3911
Res. 1287, Blakney, Ross - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3912
Res. 1288, Deveau, Shawn - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3912
Res. 1289, Dewolfe, Shawn - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3913
Res. 1290, Holman, Stephen - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3914
Res. 1291, Redmond, Steven - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3914
Res. 1292, Dahr, Walter - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks, Hon
3915
Res. 1293, Morash, William - TIR: Hurricane Safety and Cleanup - Thanks,
3915

 

 

[Page 3841]

HALIFAX, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2019

Sixty-third General Assembly

Second Session

1:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Suzanne Lohnes-Croft, Brendan Maguire

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

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to table a petition, the operative clause being:

"We are petitioning the Provincial Government of Nova Scotia, specifically the Department of Lands and Forests [sic] to review the Letters of Authority issued for Rails to Trails corridors within the Province to ensure that everyone and their recreational activities (such as horse back riding and driving off road vehicles) are not excluded on any provincial trails. But more importantly, ensuring universal accessibility for anyone with limited mobility challenges that may require alternative modes of transportation.
We, the undersigned, are concerned citizens who urge our Provincial and Municipal Governments to act now to revisit, review and reassess the process in which Rails to Trails corridors are designated, managed and funded."

Mr. Speaker, I have affixed my name as per the requirements of the House. There are 770 signatures.

[Page 3842]

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

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

THE SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : I'd like to draw the attention of the House to the gallery opposite where a constituent of mine, Eric Gould, is present. Eric is a volunteer with Greenpeace Halifax, and he is a passionate and committed activist working to protect our oceans and our environment in general. I'd like to welcome him here and ask everyone to give him a warm welcome. (Applause)

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

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : I'd like to table a petition, Mr. Speaker, where the operative clause is as follows:

"We ask that the Government of Nova Scotia ban the use of retail single use plastics to protect our marine animals and ecosystems."

There are approximately 379 signatures and I have affixed my own, according to the Rules of the House.

THE SPEAKER « » : The petition is tabled.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Vice-Chair of the Law Amendments Committee.

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

Bill No. 152 - Plastic Bags Reduction Act.

Bill No. 160 - Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act.

Bill No. 163 - Wilderness Areas Protection Act.

Bill No. 166 - Denturists Act.

[Page 3843]

Bill No. 170 - Public Highways Act.

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 Health and Wellness.

RESOLUTION NO. 1261

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

Whereas mental illness affects people of all ages, income levels, cultures, and education; and

Whereas one in five Canadians will personally experience a mental health challenge or illness; and

Whereas October 6-12, 2019, is Mental Illness Awareness Week, aiming to increase awareness of the reality of mental illness;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Mental Illness Awareness Week and commit to helping increase awareness and decrease the stigma of mental illness.

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.

[Page 3844]

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.

RESOLUTION NO. 1262

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

Whereas Dr. Elizabeth Cromwell, beloved community leader, recently passed away at the age of 75; and

Whereas Dr. Cromwell, from Birchtown, was a graduate of the Halifax Vocational School in social work, devoted member of the Black Cultural Society Board and the Black United Front, founding member and president of the Black Loyalist Heritage Society, awardee of honorary degrees from Mount Saint Vincent University and Dalhousie University, recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Multicultural Volunteer of the Year Award from Nova Scotia, appointee to the Order of Canada in 2018, and notified to be an upcoming Order of Nova Scotia recipient; and

Whereas Dr. Cromwell will always be remembered for her determination, passion, commitment, and tireless efforts toward the preservation of education of African history in Nova Scotia and her involvement in establishing the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre in Shelburne;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly please join me in acknowledging Dr. Cromwell on her great efforts.

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.

The honourable Minister of Immigration.

RESOLUTION NO. 1263

[Page 3845]

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

Whereas the Coptic Orthodox Church was founded in 42 A.D. - they are the native Christians of Egypt, and the church has a strong presence throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, Asia, and a consistent presence in Canada since the 1950s, including Halifax; and

Whereas the Coptic Orthodox communities in Halifax will celebrate the arrival of His Grace Bishop Boulos, the first-ever Coptic Orthodox Bishop over Ottawa, Montreal, and Eastern Canada, this Sunday, October 13th, at St. Mena Coptic Orthodox Church; and

Whereas His Grace Bishop Boulos was ordained by His Holiness Pope Tawadros, the 118th Pope, in Cairo on June 8, 2019;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating St. Mena Coptic Orthodox Church and Nova Scotia's Coptic Orthodox community as they welcome His Grace Bishop Boulos to our beautiful province.

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.

The honourable Minister responsible for the Emergency Management Office.

RESOLUTION NO. 1264

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

Whereas October 6th to October 12th is Fire Prevention Week; and

Whereas throughout our province hundreds of volunteer firefighters give selflessly to help protect residents of their communities from fires; and

Whereas all Nova Scotians have a responsibility to educate themselves about how to prevent fires and keep their families safe;

[Page 3846]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House thank all firefighters in our province and encourage all Nova Scotians to know two ways out of every room, have a plan to escape during a fire, practise that plan with their families, and ensure smoke alarms are working properly.

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

Bill No. 180 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 31 of the Acts of 2001. The Fatality Investigations Act. (Hon. Mark Furey)

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

The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, permission to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, in the West Gallery, we have members of the board of directors from the Affirmative Ventures, a not-for-profit supportive housing unit that we have in Dartmouth East. We have with us Dr. Norman Greenberg, Deborah Wood, Leonard MacKay, Krista Juurlink, and also with them is Project Manager Dave Harrison.

I would ask you to please stand and receive the warm welcome of the House of Assembly. (Applause)

[1:15 p.m.]

[Page 3847]

Bill No. 181 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 380 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Public Utilities Act, Respecting Charitable Housing. (Tim Halman)

Bill No.182 - Entitled an Act to Require Reporting Respecting the Health-care Crisis. (Gary Burrill)

Bill No. 183 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 80 of the Acts of 1975. An Act to Exempt from Taxation the Property of the Digby Town and Municipal Housing Corporation in the Town of Digby. (Hon. Gordon Wilson)

Bill No. 184 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 5 of the Acts of 2005. The Emergency Health Services Act. (Tammy Martin)

Bill No. 185 - Entitled an Act to Provide for Affordable Hearing Aids for Seniors. (Tammy Martin)

Bill No. 186 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 7 of the Acts of 2011. The Fair Drug Pricing Act. (Tammy Martin)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

FLEMMING, JIM: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Jim Flemming, who last week retired after 38 years with the Truro Police Service.

His distinguished career began in 1981 and over that time he has worked in many facets of the police service including Deputy Police Chief, a role that he held for the last 12 years.

Deputy Chief Flemming has found his career in policing very rewarding and has appreciated the opportunities he was presented to help the people. Jim plans to remain active in the community with his many hobbies.

I ask the members of the House to join me in celebrating and thanking Jim Flemming for his years of service to the Truro Police Service.

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

[Page 3848]

HEMODIALYSIS UNIT: TREATMENT RELOCATION - ILL-PLANNED

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak for the more than 60 dialysis patients who lost access to treatment at their own hospital.

This summer, the NSHA made the decision to move the hemodialysis unit from the Dartmouth General Hospital to the Victoria General Hospital in Halifax.

Calvin Kilgar reached out to my office with a document containing signatures from 35 other worried patients. This decision was made without consultation with the patients and puts further financial and logistical burdens on people who are living with an already challenging health condition, not to mention their caregivers.

Mr. Speaker, this decision is one of so many made in Halifax that makes sense on a spreadsheet but surely not in real life. The renovation of the Dartmouth General could have been staged to avoid this but it wasn't, and that's a shame.

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

HFX. WANDERERS: FOSTERING COM. UNITY - CONGRATS.

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Armdale's Derek Martin and the Halifax Wanderers Football Club for reigniting our city's love of soccer. In Spring of 2018, when it was announced that the Wanderers would be one of the founding clubs to play in the Canadian Premier League, hundreds of excited Haligonians came out to celebrate.

Derek promised that the team would soon become a key part of Nova Scotia's cultural identity and that the Wanderers Grounds would be a site of celebration, community, and fun for fans from far and wide.

The team has succeeded; we are all Wanderers now, and the excitement in the city and the province on game day is palpable. The fans are behind the Wanderers, beaming with civic pride and love of the game.

Please join me in thanking Derek, the entire Halifax Wanderers team, and all the fans who support soccer in Nova Scotia, and let's all cheer them on as they play their last home match of the season tomorrow night on October 9th.

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

TAYLOR, REBECCA/FURLONG, RON: GRITTY TO PRETTY - CONGRATS.

[Page 3849]

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Rebecca Taylor of the Town of Amherst and Ron Furlong of the Amherst and Area Chamber of Commerce for their work with the Gritty to Pretty program.

With their work through the Department of Municipal Affairs and its Beautification and Streetscaping Program, they were able to secure $20,000 this year and $25,000 last year for commercial projects in downtown Amherst.

Rebecca and Ron are working with local businesses to help with their projects to beautify and improve our community. The goal is to attract more business to Amherst and help the local economy by improving these current businesses.

Today, I would like to formally thank Rebecca Taylor and Ron Furlong for putting their hard work into improving our community.

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

TYP PROG. (DALHOUSIE UNIV.): TRANSFORMING LIVES - RECOG.

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the significant impact of the Transition Year Program at Dalhousie University. It was founded 50 years ago by civil rights leaders, notably including Rocky Jones and his frequent collaborator and historian, James Walker. Some 2,000 students of Mi'kmaq and African Nova Scotian descent have begun their post-secondary education through TYP.

On Friday, along with the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs and the Leader of the New Democratic Party, I attended an event to mark TYP's anniversary, where people expressed mixed feelings about the fact that it is still needed 50 years later. That says something about the structural racism that affects learners in our schools and in our province.

The story of Dr. Shawna Hoyte, however, is cause for celebration. Finishing high school, she asked her guidance counsellor for help in applying to university and was encouraged instead to study hairdressing. Thanks to TYP, she did enter university, was supported, and is now a lawyer and has a Ph.D. in social work. She teaches in the School of Social Work at Dalhousie. Her impact is huge and so is the impact of TYP.

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

THOMAS, KAVITA: COM. SPIRIT - RECOG.

[Page 3850]

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize a constituent of mine who is no stranger to giving back to the community. Kavita Thomas, a student at Halifax West High School, has been involved with many volunteer projects at her school and, in particular, the Spirit Committee where she helps plan school activities.

Kavita was involved early on with her family working at the local food bank, but she is also especially excited to be involved in WE Villages in Kenya. The goal of this organization is to break the cycle of poverty and achieve long-term community development. It has been operating in Kenya since 2004.

Would this House of Assembly join me in thanking Kavita for teaching others the importance of thinking about those less fortunate and how easy it is to help.

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

LEUSCHNER, ADAM - TEACHER: WIGWAM CLASSROOM - CONGRATS.

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, October 5th was World Teachers' Day, and today I rise to recognize a very special teacher, Adam Leuschner of Dr. John C. Wickwire Academy in Liverpool, for initiating a very special project.

A believer in hands-on and outdoor learning, when he saw an opportunity to involve his school in a once-in-a-lifetime project, he didn't hesitate. He applied for and received a ReconciliAction grant with the idea of building an authentic wigwam to use as part of their outdoor classroom.

Adam approached well-known Mi'kmaw elder, artisan, and master builder Todd Labrador to oversee the project. Todd and his family, along with 400 students and staff, harvested and boiled spruce roots and built the wigwam over a three-day period.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Adam, Todd and his family, and the students and staff of Wickwire on this culturally rich and absolutely amazing accomplishment.

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

MACNEIL, SCOTT: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Scott MacNeil, a pillar of the local 2SLGBTQIA community who passed away last week.

Scott first found community in Thee Klub, one of the first gay bars in the city, located in the Green Lantern Building, in 1975, and later became manager of Rumours, the bar run by the Gay Alliance for Equality.

[Page 3851]

In 1984, Scott's life changed when his dear friend Graeme died of AIDS-related complications. Scott went on to become a founding member of the Gay Health Association, the province's first HIV/AIDS advocacy organization. In 1987, Scott represented the group, then called MacAIDS, on the Nova Scotia Task Force on AIDS. Scott's autobiographical account, "Reflections in a Mirror Ball," published on the GayHalifax wiki, is a must-read for all Nova Scotia history buffs.

I would like to recognize Scott's many contributions to the local 2SLGBTQIA community and offer condolences to his sister Doreen and to all who loved him and are mourning his loss.

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

KINSMAN, EMMANUELLE: NTL. BALLET SCH. ADMISSION - CONGRATS.

KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, when chasing big dreams, one needs perseverance and dedication. Twelve-year-old Emmanuelle Kinsman from Canaan has dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer. As a team member of Dance ConXion in Kentville, she trains four days a week in ballet, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary dance.

This past November, this dedicated young dancer auditioned for the summer program at the National Ballet School of Canada, and I am delighted to share with this House that she was accepted to this prestigious program. From rural Nova Scotia on a Friday to downtown Toronto on a Monday, Emmanuelle spent this past July training every day among Canada's best young dancers.

I invite all members of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in congratulating Emmanuelle Kinsman on her acceptance to the National Ballet School of Canada and her relentless pursuit of her dreams.

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

URBAN HAIR: 20th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

STEVE CRAIG « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Stephanie Clark, sole proprietor of the Urban Hair salon in Sackville.

Opening its doors on July 20, 1999, Urban Hair has grown from a one-person to a seven-person salon some 20 years later. The staff of Urban Hair not only offers a wide range of services to their customers but also provides free services to those less fortunate around Christmastime. They have been very supportive of local charities, spending many hours of hard work fundraising and sponsoring numerous events and organizations.

[Page 3852]

Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask all members of this Assembly to take this opportunity to congratulate Stephanie Clark and her staff at Urban Hair on their 20th anniversary and thank them for their continued efforts in helping the needy of our community.

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

EHS WORKERS: #CODECRITICAL - RECOG.

TAMMY MARTIN « » : In a time of health care crisis, I rise to recognize the EHS workers who continue to do their best in sometimes the worst of circumstances. I applaud the IUOE Local 727 for continuing their Twitter campaign entitled #CodeCritical. Sadly, at 8:00 a.m. in HRM, there were zero units available. It was the same yesterday and the day before - and that's just in HRM.

Although the employer advises EHS not to take part in this campaign, they, along with all concerned in this health care crisis, continue to move along. Solidarity.

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

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Permission granted.

LEO GLAVINE « » : In the East Gallery we have a young lady from the Annapolis Valley, a terrific athlete in track and field, long-distance running, and hockey, and currently a nursing student at my alma mater, St. Francis Xavier University. If Hilary could rise and receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

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

RAWDING, HILARY: TRACK ATHL. - CONGRATS.

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, it takes a great deal of dedication, hard work, and grit to compete with the best of the best in the running world. Today it is a pleasure to congratulate local runner Hilary Rawding and share with you her recent running accomplishments.

[1:30 p.m.]

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Hilary, of Greenwood, found the love of running for fun in Grade 4 at Kingston Elementary in a fun run and says she got competitive because she wanted to beat the boys. In middle school, she began competing at track meets, and in high school transitioning to competing competitively at regionals, winning provincials in the 800-metre and 3,000-metre events, moving on to nationals.

Since then, Hilary has been a member of the Vermont track and field team, having attended the University of Vermont on a full scholarship because of her talent. She had a qualifying time of 3:17 for the Boston Marathon and competed in the 2019 edition with a remarkable finish. She also recently placed first in her division in a 10K Run for the Lobster Race in Pictou, with a personal best time of 41:29. Notably, this was her first 10K competitive race.

I ask all members of the House to help me in congratulating Hilary on her accomplishments. (Applause)

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

FRIENDS OF MCNABS: BEACH CLEANUP - CONGRATS.

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring recognition to the Friends of McNabs Island Society.

On Sunday, June 9, 2019, the 28th Annual Beach Cleanup was held, gathering approximately 350 bags of garbage and recyclables, along with a lot of other debris. This scope of work could not have been accomplished without the help of dozens of volunteers. To date, almost 14,000 bags have been collected. Most of the debris collected this year was plastic and Styrofoam.

The Nova Scotia Department of Lands and Forestry was glad to transport the garbage to the main wharf on McNabs Island. Then A&M Sea Charters and Develop Nova Scotia brought it ashore, where HRM supplied garbage trucks to dispose of it accordingly.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in thanking the hard-working and dedicated Friends of McNabs Island Society, and everyone who helped to keep our community free of litter, for all of their hard work.

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

STONE SOUP: COM. THEATRE - CONGRATS.

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SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, over the weekend something very special took place in Dartmouth North - a community production of the ancient story of Stone Soup. The play was an entertaining and inspiring show that explored the themes of real and symbolic hunger and how a community can discover its power by coming together. It culminated in a real, stone-less soup dinner at the Dartmouth North Community Food Centre.

Dartmouth North's Stone Soup featured about 20 local children performers, four youth performers, ten adult performers, five local visual artists, musicians, many local writers, script editors, as well as the New Beginnings Ministries Praise Team and the Club Inclusion Choir. The sold-out performance was funded by Between the Bridges and the Nova Scotia Cultural Innovation Fund and organizing collaboration with many organizations. There are too many to list here, but special shout-outs go to the Dartmouth North Library and the food centre, and the Take Action Society.

The show was an incredible community collaboration, but it would not have been possible without artistic producers Ryan Rogerson and Jeff Schwager, and our youth producers Jade Grimes and Emily Hooper. Thank you to them and to all who contributed to the show.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth.

HALL, DAVE: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : After over 30 years at our regional radio station Y95 CGLS, Dave Hall has retired as its general manager.

Dave was a constant source of encouragement, support, and kindness to his many fellow staff members over the years and is a dedicated member of our community who gives generously of his time and energy to many causes and organizations.

I ask this House to join me in congratulating Dave Hall on his well-earned retirement and in wishing him a happy and healthy future.

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

MACDONALD, LARRY: RETIREMENT - CONGRATS.

KEITH BAIN « » : Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, August 10th, there was a continuous line of friends and neighbours who dropped in the Baddeck Library Branch to thank Larry MacDonald, long-time bookmobile driver, for his years of service on his last day of work.

For a little boy who lived for many years of his life in Little Narrows and attended a one-room schoolhouse, a bookmobile visit had been a treat. He was an avid reader as a child and as an adult. This passion and the love of home lead him to eventually becoming the operator of the Cape Breton Bookmobile.

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I ask all members of the Legislature to join me in thanking Larry for sharing his love of reading and providing a great service and wishing him the very best in his future endeavors.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.

MCHUGH, ED: VOLUN. OF THE YR. - CONGRATS.

HON. KELLY REGAN « » : I would like to congratulate Ed McHugh on being named Bedford's 2019 Adult Volunteer of the Year.

Ed has been involved in many organizations over the years, including minor basketball, junior girls varsity basketball at C.P. Allen High School, Special Olympics, Northwood Healthcare Board, Northwood Foundation, United Way, Empathy Factory, Alzheimer's Society of Nova Scotia, Community Justice Society, L'Arche Canada Foundation, the Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference, St. Francis Xavier Alumni Association, local school parent teacher associations, Bedford Cubs and Scouts, St. Ignatius Church Choir, and parish council.

Ed was nominated for the Volunteer Award by 100 Bedford Men Who Care. This organization was started in 2016 by former Bedford MLA Peter Christie and has managed to give away more than $100,000 to local charities. Ed has served as a senior advisory member for 100 Men Who Care, and his hard work and dedication were significant factors in helping the group achieve the $100,000 milestone.

I'd like to thank Ed McHugh for his extensive contributions to life in Bedford and Nova Scotia.

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

MACLEAN, SCOTT: COM. SERV. - THANKS

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, you can call him a sanitation engineer, a waste management professional, or a garbage collector. Scott MacLean loves working outdoors.

Six days a week you can see Scott serving families, businesses, industries, and community organizations. He continues the tradition of keeping the community clean, providing a very valuable service at the same time. MacLean always treats his customers with honesty, integrity, and respect.

Scott owns a single private garbage truck service. He can be found zigzagging across the county, carting away the trash and recycling from restaurants, offices, and numerous other places. During his multiple stops each day, he has become a fixture in his community.

[Page 3856]

He is one of the best known, if not the humblest person in town. He always has a kind and friendly word for all.

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

BENTLEY, MORLEY: OPEN HOUSE - CONGRATS.

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, born in Springhill in 1930, Morley Bentley grew up in Upper Stewiacke and Brookfield. Graduating from high school in 1947, he first taught school at Birch Hill, Colchester County on a permissive license because of a shortage of teachers. He graduated from Normal College in 1949 and continued to add to his credentials throughout his life.

In 1960, Morley graduated from Pine Hill Divinity Hall and served as a United Church of Canada minister for a period spanning 50 years. Morley served in many places during those years. His love of people was returned to him by all in the areas he served.

To prove that, an open house was held at the Tatamagouche Royal Canadian Legion on June 2. Whether organizing or leading a choir, teaching school, teaching piano, or serving as a minister, there are few lives in Tatamagouche and the surrounding area that Morley Bentley has not touched. The open house was a well-deserved thank you for his many years of service to the people in the area and beyond.

As part of his community celebration and as MLA for Colchester North, I was proud to present Morley with a certificate and to enjoy his storytelling, his quick wit, and his connection to the many communities and folks we share in common. He is a keen and engaged 89-year old; he is a great example of a life well-lived. There is hope for all of us, including the member for Cumberland South.

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

MACMILLAN, LUKE: CDN. JR. HOCKEY SCHOLAR - CONGRATS.

LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, I wish to take a moment to congratulate Truro Bearcats forward Luke MacMillan - he's from Shortts Lake - on being only the fifth Maritime Junior Hockey League player ever to win the $5,000 Canadian Junior Hockey League scholarship.

Luke, who was named the Maritime Junior Hockey League Scholastic Player of the Year for 2018-19 and won the Bob Boucher Hockey Assistance Fund for 2017-18, has a lengthy list of academic honours and volunteerism with local programs.

[Page 3857]

I am proud to see someone like Luke - who is in his second year in the engineering program at the Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus - excel in school, in sports, and in the community. His recognition is well-earned.

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

GRAN FONDO: 5th ANN. EVENT - CONGRATS.

GORDON WILSON « » : Mr. Speaker, again this year, I made my way to Saulnierville to cheer on the cyclists at the start of the Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie. There, I was able to meet up with my colleague, the member for Clayton Park who was one of the more than 1,000 participants who are cycling in the most popular of five rides, the Medio.

At the start, I met many cyclists who make a point of returning year after year to ride the Gran Fondo. They first came to this new cycling event out of curiosity and return because of the professionalism of the event's organization and the welcome they receive while in the area. All along the ride starting on the coastline of Clare, participants have a great and safe ride and people from the community encourage them to keep going.

I would like to congratulate the organizers as well as all the volunteers and the people of Clare on hosting their 5th Fondo. In a very short time, it has become such a positive impact on the area's economy and tourism, as well as a role in prompting people to try cycling.

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

LEWIS, JOE: HEALTH INTERVENTION - BEST WISHES

BRAD JOHNS « » : Mr. Speaker, today I acknowledge Norman, a one-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, and his owner Joe Louis of Middle Sackville. This Summer, Joe was out in his backyard doing some yard work when he suddenly had a pumping headache and decided to go in and lay down. However, Norman wouldn't let him go to sleep. Norman continued to bark at the window and kept going back tugging at Joe to keep him awake.

Norman created such a fuss that Joe finally called his sister who immediately called an ambulance. Joe ended up going into the hospital with a ruptured vein in his brain, but luckily survived thanks to his dog Norman. It's clear that in this particular case, Norman had certainly fulfilled his role as man's best friend. I wish Joe, the owner, a very speedy recovery.

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

[Page 3858]

MILLING FROLIC: 86th ANN. EVENT - THANKS

ALANA PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, organizers of the 86th Annual Milling Frolic hosted a successful event in Johnstown. The milling frolic took place on August 23rd in the Johnstown Parish Hall and it featured the very talented Kinnon, Betty Lou, and Andrea Beaton. The event included Gaelic singing, milling, a country store, a bake sale, children's games, bingo, and a square dance.

The Johnstown Milling Frolic, along with the community's Strawberry Festival, helps to raise the necessary funds to support community infrastructure and programs. These events bring the community together and allow for visitors to experience local and cultural traditions.

Johnstown resident Louise Campbell is one of the many community volunteers who take on the responsibility of organizing the frolic. I ask members of this House to join me in extending our appreciation to her and the organizing committee for another successful event.

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

BARKHOUSE, MICHAEL: CARNEGIE HERO - CONGRATS.

HON. MARGARET MILLER « » : Mr. Speaker, on June 17, 2017, in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Michael Barkhouse, originally from Walton, N.S., was on his way to work when he saw a woman in a kennel with a dog and heard her screaming. He stopped his vehicle, put on leather work gloves, grabbed a wooden stake and forced open the outer latch on the kennel. He entered the kennel, yelled at the dog and struggled with it until the dog released the woman. The woman was hospitalized and treated for numerous bites, but thankfully Michael's injury was only a bruised right hand.

As a result of his heroism that day he received the Carnegie Hero Medal. In 1904 industrialist-philanthropist Andrew Carnegie started the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission. This commission awards the Carnegie Hero Medal to individuals in Canada and the U.S. who risk their lives to an extraordinary degree saving and attempting to save the lives of others.

I would like to ask all members of this House to join me in thanking Michael for his courageous actions and congratulate him on receiving this prestigious award.

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

FIRE PREVENTION WK.: PLAN YOUR ESCAPE - THANKS

[Page 3859]

COLTON LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, this week from October 6 -12th is Fire Prevention Week. This year's theme is Not Every Hero Wears a Cape, Plan and Practise Your Escape!. Fire Prevention Week is a week to remember safe practices. Fires spread very quickly and you may only have as little as a couple of minutes to escape. Plan and practise your escape.

This week is also an opportunity to thank firefighters - career and volunteer alike - across Nova Scotia for their continued dedication to our safety and protection. I ask all members of this House of Assembly to join me in thanking Nova Scotia's firefighters for their commitment in fire suppression and protecting Nova Scotian's lives and property 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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

CANSO SCOUTS: 50 YRS. OF SCOUTING - CONGRATS.

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 5th Canso Scout Troop which celebrated its 50th year of scouting in September. The Charter was established in 1970 with hundreds of youth going through the Scouts Canada program, developing memories and friendships forged through countless campfires, hikes, and overnight camps. Canso Scouts is a place where kids can gain leadership skills by leading their peers on meaningful adventures in nature.

The Canso Scout Troop is youth-led, meaning our scouts develop their own programs and make their own path to outdoor adventure by setting their own goals, creating organized plans to achieve success in their goals, and collectively reflecting on their experience and personal development.

I'd like to congratulate the Canso Scouts and their leader Harold Roberts, for achieving this exceptional milestone, thank them for all they do to develop our youth into competent, capable and empowered young leaders of tomorrow, and to wish them 50 more years of Scouting.

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

CANNING FIRE DEPT.: RECENT FIRE - CONGRATS.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to thank the Canning Volunteer Fire Department for successfully fighting a major fire in Canning early this past Sunday morning. Three buildings were destroyed in what has been reported to be a suspicious fire, likely caused by arson.

Fire crews from numerous local fire departments supplied mutual aid and backup as 75 firefighters fought on the scene. Canning Chief Jeff Skaling directed the firefighters in putting out the fire and saving neighbouring buildings. Three times in Canning's history, the village has burned down due to the spread of fire from one building to another. Not this time, Mr. Speaker.

[Page 3860]

I ask all members to join me in congratulating the volunteer firefighters of the Valley and the Canning Fire Department for their efforts this weekend on behalf of the community. (Applause)

[1:45 p.m.]

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

EMERG. SERV. PERSONNEL: DEDICATION - THANKS

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise to also recognize our volunteer firefighters, as well as our paid firefighters, right across this province who work every day protecting life and property here in Nova Scotia.

As others have mentioned, I want to thank the honourable member for Argyle-Barrington, as well as Kings North, for their recognition of our fire service personnel and also our emergency service personnel, who often attend scenes like the honourable member just described in Canning over the weekend, standing by and protecting our firefighters throughout as well when injuries occur.

On behalf of all the members here in the House, Mr. Speaker, I would ask that they again thank all of our emergency service personnel who are working right across this province.

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

LAWEN, GEORGE AND GENEVIEVE: 50th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate George and Genevieve Lawen of Halifax Armdale on the occasion of their 50th anniversary. Originally hailing from Kfeir, Lebanon, George immigrated to Canada with his family in 1958, sailing on an Italian fleeter, Satornia, for a 14-day period. The family docked at Pier 21 in Halifax on January 10, 1959, and were hosted by George's late aunt Sophia as they made their plans to settle in Canada. George would soon enter the local real estate business, building a new life here in Nova Scotia.

A decade later George would return to his native Lebanon. There he met the love of his life Genevieve, originally from Ain Hershe, and they married on October 12, 1969. Mr. Speaker, they tell me they first met me as a small child back in 1969, when they visited my family in north Lebanon on their honeymoon.

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Today the proud couple have 6 children, 15 - soon to be 16 - grandchildren, and are active members of the community. To George, Genevieve and entire family, congratulations on this milestone and God bless all your family.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

ELLIS, COLTON: NHL DRAFT - CONGRATS.

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, there have been a lot of great hockey players who have come out of Nova Scotia over the past number of years, but I believe one to watch is Colten Ellis of River Denys. He was just drafted by the St. Louis Blues - maybe with some influence of Al MacInnis - 93rd overall in this year's NHL entry draft. That is an achievement in itself, but let us acknowledge that no matter what level of play he has entered, he has excelled.

He was the top goaltender in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League. He won a national midget championship with the Cape Breton West Islanders. He became the starting goaltender, at the age of 17, in his first year with the Rimouski Oceanic of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

Colten will eventually have his chance to crack the Blues lineup, and his family and his skills will be there for him when the time comes. Let us congratulate Colton and the Ellis and Campbell families on these achievements and wish him well in the years ahead.

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

ANGUS, BOB/ANGUS, IAN: COM. SERV. - THANKS

HON. IAIN RANKIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize Bob Angus and Ian Angus of Timberlea. This dynamic father and son team exemplified the essence of community spirit. Bob enjoyed a successful career as a real estate agent, focusing his business in the BLT area. Recognizing the value of building and nurturing a vibrant community, Bob has spent years engaging and conducting residents in the community, forming homeowners' associations and helping organize community events.

Although Bob has retired from his day job, his work continues two-fold in the work he continues and into the next generation, with his son Ian. Ian has stepped up into his father's footsteps, professionally as a realtor and socially through his community work.

Together Bob and Ian continue to develop community spirit by organizing community events that enhance the desirability of the area. Their most recent contribution was to the Timberlea Food Truck Rally in September as premier supporters of the event, not only assisting with finances but also participating in all of the many logistical considerations with my office to organize an event, which fed over 3,000 guests.

[Page 3862]

I'd like the member of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly to join me in thanking Bob and Ian Angus for their hard work, commitment and many contributions to our community.

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

ORRELL, EDDIE: COM. SERV. - THANKS

MURRAY RYAN « » : Mr. Speaker, the members of this House may have noticed that things have been a bit quieter so far this session. I think we all know that that has a lot to do with my predecessor being out of the Legislature and pursuing federal politics.

Eddie Orrell is a long-time friend of mine, and I'd like to acknowledge and thank him on behalf of myself and the residents of Northside-Westmount for his tireless dedication and years of service. His selflessness in serving his constituents is something I hope to replicate, and I certainly have impressive shoes to fill.

I wish him nothing but the best in the upcoming federal election, and trust that he will come home with a victory in Sydney-Victoria.

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

LIONS CLUB: SOFTENING THE EFFECTS OF POVERTY - RECOG.

LISA ROBERTS « » : I want to acknowledge how poverty can prevent Nova Scotians from fully accessing our health care system.

We recently assisted a constituent who was approved for an out-of-province procedure for which he would be reimbursed, but he had no access to the extra funds to pay the upfront costs. That is why he and I, and my constituency staff, are so grateful to the Armdale Fairview Rockingham Lions Club. They were able to make a highly unusual loan and offer support where government and non-profits could not.

We have other constituents, particularly seniors who are struggling with a mix of poverty and health care concerns. When the province forces income assistance recipients to apply for CPP at age 60, for example, they are consigning seniors to senior years on precariously low incomes, fretting over ambulance fees, and Pharmacare co-pays, in social isolation. I would urge all of us to strive to do better.

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

DANCING WITH THE STARS: SUPPORTING HOSPICE - CONGRATS.

[Page 3863]

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, on the weekend at home there was a great event that was held in the community to support hospice palliative care. Community leaders were matched with dance partners for a new event called Dancing with the Stars 2019 in support of hospice.

It was a sellout event and over $170,000 was raised that evening to support the dream of a new building in the community: a new hospice. To everybody involved, congratulations on a great event. They're one step closer to a new hospice and as a government, we're proud to support them to cover the operating costs.

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

WILD BLUEBERRY CORNER MURAL: COM. EFFORT - CONGRATS.

TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the unveiling of the mural on a building in what we like to call the Wild Blueberry Corner in Oxford.

The town and the Cumberland Performing Arts group joined forces to dress up the corner with a large painting that depicts the musical talents of the community, while tipping its hat to the town's status as the wild blueberry capital of Canada by scattering blueberries amid the notes on the sheet music on the mural.

Fifteen-year-old Jada Ripley's design was selected from a competition initiated by Ruth Collins, director of Cumberland Performing Arts. Jada was joined by Julia Gill to produce the 12- by 16-foot mural which was unveiled on August 24th.

I ask that the house join me in congratulating Jada Ripley, Julia Gill and everyone who was involved from start to finish on this outstanding piece of art.

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

JOE HOWE SUPERSTORE:

SUPPORT DURING HURRICANE DORIAN - THANKS

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, as I've mentioned before, many of my residents were left without power and unable to cook any meals days after Hurricane Dorian. However, Joseph Howe Drive Atlantic Superstore was up for the challenge.

On September 9th, Joe Howe Superstore opened its PC Cooking School for Fairview residents to relax, plug in, and enjoy free complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks. On September 11th, staff posted on Facebook and encouraged those without power or food to come to the PC Cooking School to enjoy some free chili. They even extended their hours to accommodate anyone and everyone.

[Page 3864]

Not only was our local Superstore open for residents immediately following the hurricane, but they continued to recognize the need and provided for individuals and families days after.

Mr. Speaker, I ask the members of this House of Assembly to join me in thanking the Joseph Howe Superstore for stepping up for our community in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.

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

BATES, CATHY: COM. ADVOCATE - THANKS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mrs. Cathy Bates, a resident of Malagash. She organized a community meeting so that local residents could have their voices heard and ask questions about their community.

It's important for residents to value and take pride in their community in hopes that it can prosper and grow. Cathy advocated on behalf of a better internet service for both homes and businesses, as well as, improvements for local roads and roadsides.

Today, please join me in thanking Cathy Bates for her commitment to her community in Malagash.

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

MACMASTER, DUNCAN - CATHOLIC PASTOR:

55 YRS. OF SCOUTING SERV. - CONGRATS.

BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Reverend Duncan MacMaster on receiving a Scouting certificate in recognition of his 55 years of service to the Scouting organization.

Scouting has been a great interest of Father MacMaster, as noted by his active involvement and many achievements. Father MacMaster has held many positions in the organization at local, national, and international levels.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Father MacMaster on his 55 years of service to Scouts Canada.

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

SPONAGLE-TAYLOR, DEBORAH: NURTURING YOUNG ARTISTS - RECOG.

[Page 3865]

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, for many years, Deborah Sponagle-Taylor of Liverpool has been inspiring and teaching young artists in Queens County.

A very talented artist in her own right and affectionately known by her students as Debbie Doodles, she encourages youngsters to explore and develop their own artistic skills and styles. Her love for her kids and her relaxed style create an incredibly nurturing environment for their creativity. Each year Debbie and her husband Chuck produce a youth art show and sale to showcase her students' work, and the pride on their young faces speaks volumes.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and applaud Deb for all that she does in her community to cultivate the arts, and to inspire, teach, and mentor her students.

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

FOUND, BOB/WILKES, BARBARA: SPCA FUNDRAISING - CONGRATS.

HUGH MACKAY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. Bob Found and Mrs. Barbara Wilkes who, earlier this Summer, held two garage sales in support of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the SPCA.

Bob and Barbara organized residents of Indian Harbour to gather together their collectibles and antiques, and then held two weekends of garage sales during July. When customers learned where the money earned from the sales was destined, many decided to donate their personal change. The total amount that Mr. Found and Mrs. Wilkes donated was over $1,100.

The SPCA will put the donated funds toward their four pillars of service, which include animal rescue, shelter, veterinary care, and rehabilitation. Funds from this yard sale, as well as all donations, are a vital part of the operations of this worthy association.

I invite the members of the House of Assembly to join me in recognizing, congratulating, and thanking Mr. Bob Found and Mrs. Barbara Wilkes for their generous support of the Nova Scotia SPCA.

THE SPEAKER « » : Just before we move on to the next member's statement, I want to draw everybody's attention to the Speaker's Gallery where we are joined today by a special guest, the Honourable John Mercer Reid, former Member of Parliament for Kenora-Rainy River where he served for 19 years in our federal Parliament.

Mr. Reid was the Minister of Federal-Provincial Relations from 1978 to 1979, and he served as the Information Commissioner of Canada from 1998 to 2006. He does have a couple of Nova Scotia connections: he was the Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Allan J. MacEachen; and, as well, he is accompanied by his daughter who is married to a local, Dr. Todd Howlett, the Chief of Medical Staff at the Dartmouth General Hospital.

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I would like to ask the honourable members to rise and give a warm welcome. (Applause)

The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

FAMILY 1st MEDICAL: COM. RESOURCE - CONGRATS.

STEVE CRAIG « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome Family 1st Medical, a local Nova Scotia-based family business, to their newest location in Lower Sackville. Their five locations are owned and managed by family member Kimberley Monette. The Sackville office is managed by Respiratory Therapist Holly Mitchell.

Family 1st Medical provides in-home medical care products and services, including 24-hour oxygen, emergency home oxygen and CPAP therapy, personal emergency response systems, and elevators to the residents of Lower Sackville and the surrounding areas.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask all members of this Legislative Assembly to take this opportunity to congratulate Kimberley and the staff at Family 1st Medical, Lower Sackville, and wish them continued success in the future.

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

BRENDAN MAGUIRE » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak of an amazing young man from Williamswood: 16-year-old Ethan Eastwood, a recent high school graduate at 16 years old and this year's recipient of Dalhousie University's Schulich Leader award.

The Schulich Leader award is a scholarship offered to the most promising . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. The time allotted for Statements by Members has expired.

[2:00 p.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

H&W - C.B. REG. HOSP.: ADULT PATIENTS - PEDIATRIC UNIT

[Page 3867]

BRIAN COMER « » : Mr. Speaker, this past weekend I had a number of constituents contact me. It was very upsetting to me. The health care crisis is not news to Nova Scotians or the members of this House. We constantly hear of ways the system is currently failing. This past Friday we heard the Cape Breton Regional Hospital was so overrun that patients exceeded the number of beds. I have a document here I would like to table.

We're now using the space that's set aside for children - to accommodate the crisis that this government refuses to acknowledge - based on the fact there are adult in-patients admitted to a pediatrics ward. My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is: Does he believe it is acceptable for adult patients to take up pediatric beds?

HON. STEPHEN MCNEIL (The Premier): Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. He highlights the exact reason why we've made the largest investment in health care infrastructure in Cape Breton Island. We know the emergency room in Cape Breton needs to be doubled. We know today a tender is going out where people are being asked to make a tender so we can continue to make that expansion.

We're continuing to work with the health care providers to provide the support in communities. We'll see the expansion in Glace Bay, and we'll see two new facilities that will be built and that will provide the care that reflects the realities of today, not in 1950, but we'll prepare that community and this province for the next 50 years.

BRIAN COMER « » : Mr. Speaker, health care concerns of Cape Breton haven't been appeased by major infrastructure announcements that are years in the distance. Cape Bretoners, as I've heard on the doorstep many times, are concerned about the health care they cannot receive today. They're not concerned about shiny new buildings built for the future. They're concerned about closures at Northside and New Waterford, and the Glace Bay ER that was open for four days this Summer.

Cape Bretoners understand the health care crisis and they know the solution to hallway medicine isn't better hallways. My question for the minister, or the Premier, is: Does he have a solution for Cape Bretoners - not 10 years down the road, but for today?

THE PREMIER » : Mr. Speaker, the honourable member is highlighting another important point that successive governments have tried to put a band-aid on the challenges facing health care across our province. We've heard from health care providers from one end of the province to the other that they require an investment in infrastructure. It will help their lives and support in communities across this province, it will also help us to continue to attract and retain health care providers.

We can't just think about today, we have to ensure we have health care providers for the next 50 years and the infrastructure has to reflect the reality of how people want to practise today, the requirements that are required, and we'll continue to make those investments regardless of how often we're criticized by the Opposition members. We're starting to hear from community members across this province in communities that say, quite frankly, that is the right investment we should be making.

[Page 3868]

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

GOVT. (N.S.) - ERs: FLU SEASON - PREPAREDNESS

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, on the weekend, Dr. Bob Martel published a piece in the paper, which I will table, where he compared preparations for Hurricane Dorian to preparations in our emergency rooms for the coming annual flu season. It wasn't a favourable comparison he made. He wrote that while companies and governments and people began preparations just as soon as, if not before, the hurricane began to move north from the Bahamas - and we were blessed to come out of the storm with no loss of life - every year in the flu season, on the other hand, people pass away because emergency rooms are inadequately prepared for the increased demands the flu season places on ERs.

With the flu season looming, is the Premier confident our emergency rooms this year are going to be prepared for the coming load?

THE PREMIER « » : Yes.

GARY BURRILL « » : Well, Mr. Speaker, we did better with Dorian than we did with Juan because we learned from the experience with Juan and our preparations as a result were improved. Our preparations, contrary to the Premier's confidence, were not all that wonderful in last year's flu season, as far as emergency room overcrowding was concerned.

Dr. Martel writes about this and about how, last flu season, NSHA supervisors at the Valley Regional Hospital asked physicians in ERs to attend to patients on stretchers in hallways because the overcapacity situation was so great. One day at the end of last season in the Valley, the emergency room at that hospital was 557 per cent over capacity.

I want to ask the Premier « » : What has the government learned from the poor performance with ER overcrowding last year for doing better this time around?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, the honourable member raises an important question. There has been a tremendous amount of preparation with health care providers across this province. We continue to remind all Nova Scotians of the importance of receiving the flu shot. They particularly deal with vulnerable populations that are in their clinics. We continue to provide that support.

He would know that every time we go through there is a different strain associated with the flu. It causes challenges associated with delivering the vaccines, Mr. Speaker. Each time that happens we continue to make sure that we maximize the use of vaccines. We make sure that Nova Scotians recognize that getting the flu shot early is an important step. It is why we've continued to work with pharmacists to broaden the ability for Nova Scotians to be able to get the vaccine, to get their flu shot. We'll continue to make sure that we encourage Nova Scotians to be prepared.

[Page 3869]

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, the concern that is being pressed here is not about the vaccine but about the negative effect of ER overcrowding on proper service during the flu season. Now, it's very fair for people to be concerned about this when one-fifth of our hospital beds are taken up with people who are supposed to be in nursing homes - so ERs have no place to admit those patients - and when 85 per cent of the nurses in the province say that at least once a week they are working short on their shifts.

Mr. Speaker, any competent person can see that these conditions are warning signs. I want to ask the Premier « » : Why does his government continue to ignore these very real signals?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. Contrary to what he is saying in his statement, quite frankly, we continue to ensure that we provide more people - provide the flu shot.

In one of his earlier questions he talks about preparation. That is exactly what Nova Scotians need to do. He also talked about those Nova Scotians who, even with all of that work, still contract the virus.

I have all the confidence in our health care providers across this province to ensure that they have the appropriate supports around them to deliver that service.

He is also highlighting something around the emergency rooms. This government has made the largest single investment in health care infrastructure in this province's history, dealing with the QEII. When they were in government, they ignored the fact. This government is not ignoring it. We are not only dealing with the challenges of today but preparing for the next 50 years.

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

GOVT. (N.S.) - NSHA: PHYSICIANS - DISTRUST

TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, many Nova Scotians were surprised by the Premier's recent comments that his government was winning at doctor recruitment. I'll table the Premier's comments there. Doctors might also be surprised by that comment.

Earlier this year we learned that doctors sent some dismal numbers back to the Nova Scotia Health Authority in a survey of physician engagement - 72 per cent of community physicians and 60 per cent of facility-based physicians disagreed with the statement "I trust the NSHA to work effectively to enact meaningful changes." I'll table that too, Mr. Speaker. That doesn't count as a win by my math, but by the Premier's math it may.

[Page 3870]

I'd like to ask the Premier « » : Does a winning health care system include one where the vast majority of physicians don't trust the Nova Scotia Health Authority to make meaningful change?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for the question. He is raising an important issue. What I was referring to - the fact of the matter is the honourable member stood on his feet and said there were 100,000 Nova Scotians without access to a family doctor. He now is acknowledging that that number is near 50,000. That number continues to go down.

We recognize there is more work to do. That's why we're currently on our second trip to the U.K. to attract more physicians to come into this province. I want to remind the honourable member that we are number four in the country when it comes to attaching patients with primary caregivers.

At the same time, though, he is highlighting an important factor. Our health care providers across the province have acknowledged that they are unhappy with the engagement they have had with the Health Authority. Dr. Marrie, who has come on as the Deputy Minister of Health and Wellness, has continued to work in collaboration with them.

He would also know that the head of Doctors Nova Scotia has acknowledged that physicians have lost confidence in some of the work Doctors Nova Scotia is doing. That's why we're working very hard to try to get a negotiated deal, so we can get on with continuing to improve the health care infrastructure of this province and ensure that the very investments we're making around the ER in Cape Breton, the one here in Halifax, are about infrastructure.

TIM HOUSTON « » : There's only one conclusion from the Premier's comments, Mr. Speaker - the Premier is out of touch.

I'll remind the Premier that this is not our caucus that's giving the Premier, his government, and the Nova Scotia Health Authority a failing grade on engagement - it's the providers on the front lines. The same survey of physicians indicated that 76 per cent of community physicians disagree with the statement "I feel well informed about wider organization change and strategic planning in the NSHA."

Now I'm sure the Premier knows that everyone has to be rowing in the same direction if you want to get anywhere. What doctors are telling the Premier, and the Minister of Health and Wellness, and the Health Authority is you don't even know how to tell us where the oars are, let alone what direction we're going.

I'd like to ask the Premier « » : Does the winning health care system include a majority of community doctors who feel completely out of the loop of the Health Authority's strategic planning and overall direction for health care?

[Page 3871]

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, we continue to work with health care providers across the province to improve the health care infrastructure. We've heard loud and clear from health care teams, not just doctors, nurse practitioners, family practice nurses, dietitians that for far too long in communities across this province, government has ignored the fact they do not have the appropriate infrastructure to be able to attract and retain new health care providers.

Despite all of what the Opposition might want to say, the fact of the matter it is health care teams from one end of this province to the other who are helping us ensure that the largest investment in infrastructure is being led and supported by health care teams from one end of this province to the other. Are there those who are opposed to that, Mr. Speaker? Yes, there are, and many of them are sitting across the aisle from us.

We need to continue to make these investments to ensure that we can attract and retain health care providers inside of this province, and the reality of it is, Mr. Speaker, we are continuing to make progress. We know there's more work to do, but no matter how often they criticize us we're working with those physicians and health care teams to ensure we are thinking of the next 50 years - not the last 50.

TIM HOUSTON « » : The reason the health care crisis continues to get worse and worse is exactly because of answers like that. These aren't our numbers, it's not our numbers, it's not the Opposition, it's front-line health care professionals who have given up on this Premier's ability to manage a proper health care system. But guess what? It's not only us, it's not only doctors, it's also the Auditor General who is asking questions.

The Auditor General had this recommendation in 2016 for the NSHA: "The Department of Health and Wellness and the Nova Scotia Health Authority should tell Nova Scotians what they should expect from their health care system. This includes . . .what level of service to expect in communities across the province." I can table that, too, for the Premier since he's always reluctant to understand the facts in front of him.

The Nova Scotia Health Authority accepted that recommendation, but if we jump ahead a couple of years, I just told you the engagement numbers - very, very low on people's confidence in this government.

Does the Premier have a plan to fix the Health Authority's ongoing communication failures, and will the Premier himself acknowledge the health care crisis we have today?

THE PREMIER « » : The honourable member would know we're the first government to put together a Health Committee, to televise so all Nova Scotians can hear that, Mr. Speaker. We continue to call before that committee, at every opportunity, the Health Authority, the Department of Health and Wellness, so that we can engage them. What we do know for a fact is that Dr. Marrie has been out engaging with front-line health care providers across the province. They've been very clear to continue to make the investments.

[Page 3872]

The honourable member can attack the most reputable physician in this province, Dr. Marrie, who has led our medical school, who has been out engaging, Mr. Speaker. But the reality of it is we are making progress when it comes to ensuring that we are providing the right infrastructure, that we are attracting the right health care team across the province. We know there's more work to do. We'll continue to make sure we do that. It is my hope that we will continue to make sure that we provide the appropriate compensation package for physicians and we'll be able to announce that very soon.

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

H&W - C.B. REG. HOSP.: ADULT PATIENTS - PEDIATRIC UNIT

TAMMY MARTIN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness. On Friday there were so many patients admitted to the emergency at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital that some adult patients were forced to the pediatric floor. The pediatric floor is supposed to be a locked unit, but at the Cape Breton Regional, where dangerous overcrowding is a daily occurrence, the unit is being used as an overflow space.

Mr. Speaker, is the minister concerned that overcrowding at the regional hospital emergency department is compromising care for other patients?

[2:15 p.m.]

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Ensuring that Nova Scotians receive the care that they need throughout our health care system, whether it's in primary care, emergency, or acute care services, throughout the entire health care spectrum, the fact is, when the needs arise, as part of ensuring that the care is provided, those on the front line - the administrators within the facilities make operational decisions on the ground to ensure they use the resources that they have, to ensure that care is available to be provided to Nova Scotians. I believe that's the scenario in what took place this past week that the member has described.

TAMMY MARTIN « » : I guess that would include hallway medicine as well.

Mr. Speaker, the ER at the regional hospital is dangerously overcrowded on a regular basis. People seeking care and health care workers alike are at risk. These aren't one-off situations. It's par for the course and it's happening while more than 50 ER beds sit empty at the Glace Bay, Northside, and New Waterford hospitals. This is where the admitted patients should be, not in pediatrics with children.

People deserve to know what's going on and just how serious this situation actually is. Will the Minister of Health and Wellness please table a list of dates and times that the Cape Breton Regional Hospital emergency room reached dangerously overcrowded status on the National Emergency Department Overcrowding Scale since January 2019? I know it has been almost daily.

[Page 3873]

RANDY DELOREY « » : As the member indicated, the challenges with overcrowding and the pressures at the emergency department at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital have been ongoing for many years. In fact, as I've explained to the members here previously, one of my first visits to a regional hospital as Minister of Health and Wellness, back in 2017, was to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

One of the focal points of that visit, and the tour of the facility, was the emergency department. I was told by those front-line health care professionals during that meeting that if we do anything with the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, the most important thing was to expand that emergency department.

It was not adequate. It is not a structure that supports the workflow of modern emergency medicine and it does not have enough space. That's why we're committed to doubling the size of that emergency department.

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

N.S. GAMING CORP.: ALC: POLITICAL ADVERTS. - RESPONSIBILITY

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister responsible for Part I of the Gaming Control Act. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation has long been considered a working example of interprovincial co-operation; it includes four provincial governments working together, even if Party banners differ. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation has always been a non-partisan organization simply because it has to be.

Despite this, Atlantic Lotto has used its considerable advertising power to highlight the federal Liberal candidate for Kings Hants. I will table that. My question to the minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation: Is she aware that the Atlantic Lottery Corporation has been engaged in political advertising?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, to the member opposite, the ALC is certainly four provinces that work together with the Atlantic Lottery Corporation. Within Nova Scotia, the Gaming Corporation facilitates and oversees the gaming activities in this province.

I have every bit of confidence that the Gaming Corporation is doing what is within their mandate and they will continue to make sure that we have a fair gaming practice in this province.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the minister for that answer, but I am skeptical. We are coming up on five months since the Kings Hants Liberal candidate was nominated. That's more than enough time to adjust, postpone, or cancel a local advertising campaign. I'm struggling to understand how this type of oversight could have been allowed.

[Page 3874]

I don't have to explain how it looks to have a provincial lottery revenue supporting a candidate of the government's federal cousin.

My question for the minister is: Who is responsible for these ads going ahead and will the minister take action to see this ill-advised campaign stopped?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, I think all members of this House recognize that Atlantic Lotto should not be supporting any particular candidate.

The reality is, what he tabled here, is that Atlantic Lotto quite frankly is supporting Tide Fest, an organization in that community - they support that. What the honourable member happens to be - and it was prior to the federal campaign. It is a big stretch, unless the honourable member is suggesting that Atlantic Lotto shouldn't be investing in his community.

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

FISH. & AQUA. - COOKE AQUA.: N.S. OPERATIONS - SAFEGUARDS

KIM MASLAND « » : My question is to the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. Our fisheries are so important to our economy, but yesterday a story from a Cooke Aquaculture hatchery in Maine raised concerns. CBC reported that an unacceptable incident had been caught on hidden cameras at Cooke's hatchery in Maine, and I'll table that document.

In a nearly five-minute video, hatchery salmon are smashed against posts and stomped on, and some salmon appear to be diseased. The CEO of Cooke said he was disappointed and deeply saddened by the footage. I'll admit, I agree with him. I'm also concerned about what else is going on and what we didn't have hidden cameras to see.

My question for the minister is: What specific safeguards are in place to prevent something like this from happening in the Cooke operations in Nova Scotia?

HON. KEITH COLWELL » : This is not acceptable behaviour by anybody at any time, any place. However, in Nova Scotia, it's a land-based operation, not a hatchery, and Cooke has no hatcheries in Nova Scotia. Aside from that, our farm plan that's in place for every on-shore-based or ocean-based aquaculture site addresses these issues. Our veterinarians visit the sites on a regular basis to ensure that none of this happens in Nova Scotia. If they do find there is anything wrong, the Department of Environment goes in and can lay charges and write tickets and accelerate it from there if there is a situation like that, but we have never seen one.

[Page 3875]

KIM MASLAND « » : I understand that there are no hatcheries in Nova Scotia, but Cooke Aquaculture does have operations in the province, and they have plans to expand their operations in the province. They're hoping to build a salmon processing plant here, as well as expanding the existing farm that they have in Liverpool Harbour. Aquaculture is an important business for our province and an important employer in my region, but it's hard to see past the negative headlines. Reading stories of unacceptable incidents at Cooke hatcheries alongside expansion plans just doesn't sit well.

My question is: Given the provincial economic interest in aquaculture expansion, does the minister feel the department is positioned for effective oversight of Cooke's operations?

KEITH COLWELL « » : Definitely, yes. We have some of the strongest regulations in the country and the world to ensure that we have the environment looked after properly and animal welfare rights looked after properly. The businesses have to operate in Nova Scotia responsibly. When I became minister, five or six years ago, we had no ability to take leases and licences away. I do have that power today, and I will exercise it at any time if an operator doesn't perform the way they should.

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

AGRIC. - FROST LOSS PROG.: PARTICIPATION - SATISFACTORY

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Agriculture. On February 25th, the government announced a $16.7 million Frost Loss Program to help farmers recover from crops that were lost in the late frost of 2018. This program was announced so many months after the crop losses, I'll admit I was skeptical about how successful it would really be. By the time the program was announced, many farmers had pushed on and found their own ways to try to address the financial losses.

My question for the minister is: Can the minister tell the House how many participants this program had, and what metrics did the department use to determine if the program was a success or failure?

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : The frost loss caused a lot of our farmers a lot of problems, which continues into the year and maybe into next year. What I can tell you is that I can provide the information on how many people applied, how many people were approved, and all that information. Of the $16 million that we have provided, just over $10 million was claimed by the farmers, and all the applications that came in that met the requirements, and I believe that was everybody who applied, received compensation based on the losses.

JOHN LOHR « » : I can table that just over $9 million, according to the information I have from a FOIPOP, was spent on the Frost Loss Program. The government announced an estimate that there had been $34 million in losses to the industry. Many farmers believe the late introduction of the program eligibility - it was announced on February 25th, and it had to be all wrapped up by the end of March - was a factor that discouraged broader participation. There were serious losses to these farmers and their crops, and action should have been taken immediately, not months later.

[Page 3876]

Will the minister admit the gulf between the losses and uptake of the Frost Loss Program suggests that the program was poorly executed?

KEITH COLWELL « » : I believe the program was done properly. It was done in a timely manner, the best we could, because we had to accumulate a lot of information from the farms and make sure the claims were accurate. We had to go back to some of the farmers four or five times - everybody that did apply. I've talked to all kinds of farmers about this.

We're very happy that the program did satisfy what needed to be done to help them get through the next year.

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

AGRIC. - BUY LOCAL: FOOD GROWERS - SUPPORT

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Agriculture. Select Nova Scotia is one of the main ways the province has encouraged Nova Scotians to buy local products. Buying local benefits producers and the broader economy. Aside from supporting your friends and neighbours, eating more local food is positive for the environment, which is why it's an EGSPA goal.

It was shocking to see that last year Select Nova Scotia received no advances to its revenue account. As a result, funds in Select Nova Scotia have been nearly depleted, and I will table that.

My question for the minister is: Given that Select Nova Scotia seems to have stopped receiving advances to its revenue account, does the minister have an alternative plan for increasing support for local food growers?

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Yes.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I'm not sure whether to thank him for that answer or not.

We all know the merits of shopping local and supporting local. Buying local is a way to increase both demand and profitability for local agriculture operators. A recent study by this government showed that they have been unable to increase the awareness of or demand for locally grown products. Clearly, something needs to change.

[Page 3877]

Over the Summer there were a couple of advertisements for positions with Perennia to hire people for buy-local programs. Does the minister have a real plan for supporting local agriculture in the province, or is he simply leaning on Perennia to do the heavy lifting on that?

KEITH COLWELL « » : It's a very important topic. Buying local is extremely important to farmers in Nova Scotia and the people of Nova Scotia - not just because the farmers can make money on it, which is really, really important, but also as a food supply. We have to make sure we have a big enough food supply and a steady food supply for all Nova Scotians in case an emergency happens, so that we can feed Nova Scotia.

We are working on our new program that will replace Select Nova Scotia. When the time comes and we're ready to announce it, which should be another few months, we'll be only too glad to share all the benefits from it.

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

FIN. & TREASURY BD. - HURRICANE DORIAN: CRANE REMOVAL - COST

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board. Today marks 31 days since Hurricane Dorian hit and since the infamous crane from the building under development by Wadih Fares crumpled onto South Park Street. Last week the government renewed the localized state of emergency to continue assuming responsibility for the crane's removal. The crane undoubtedly needs to come down as quickly and as safely as possible, but eventually we will need to account for the cost of the government taking over that removal.

Can the minister please share the estimated cost, which I'm assuming she has, for assuming responsibility for that removal? Can she assure Nova Scotians unequivocally that the government will recover that cost?

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, to the member's question, we made it very clear that declaring a localized state of emergency in that particular area was designed solely and initially for protection of people and property. We stand by that. That area had to be secured.

The next step was the removal of that crane had to take place. We wanted to make sure that there was a proper assessment that the crane could be removed safely. Responsibility for that was given to TIR because we did not want to have any more of a delay. We want those people who have been displaced from their businesses or from their homes to be able to get back as quickly as possible. In order for that to happen, it has to be a safe environment.

[Page 3878]

[2:30 p.m.]

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I note that I got no cost estimate and no guarantee of recovering that cost.

My second question is for the Minister of Business. Many people impacted by this situation are in a terrible spot. While the government is not able to confirm that it will recoup any expenses covering the developer's accident, when asked what's available for small businesses suffering this accident, the Premier has said they should check their insurance policies.

Not all of the small business owners affected have business-interruption insurance - the only type that would cover this - and if they do, it is limited. Revenue has ceased for those businesses for 31 days, but they still have rent, wages, utilities, and inventory to pay. Can the minister tell us what support is available for these small businesses who may be on the hook for thousands of dollars in costs related to the crane collapse?

GEOFF MACLELLAN » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. Obviously this is of great concern for many departments of our government with respect to business. First of all, public safety is number one, but any time there's an impact on business, it's certainly something that we have to address and make sure that we're doing everything we can.

The reality is that this an unfortunate event. Insurance is at play in terms of what can be recouped. The conversations are ongoing around business with my department and what potential role we have. But again, first and foremost, right now it's about the safety of the individuals, the safety of the people, and getting this crane removed as quickly as we can. That's the number one priority, and that's exactly what we're going to do.

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

AGRIC. - DIKE IMPROVEMENTS:

AGRIC. MARSHLAND CONSERV. - CONSULT.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Agriculture. Communities need help adapting to frequent, intensifying weather events. The dike situation in Nova Scotia protects many communities and large swaths of farmland. In April this government committed $56.9 million to improve 64 kilometres of dikelands over 10 years. I'll table that. This investment is welcome, but some stakeholders on the ground express confusion as to how the decision came about.

My question for the minister is this: What consultations were held with stakeholders prior to the announcement, and was the Agricultural Marshland Conservation Commission involved in the decision-making process?

[Page 3879]

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : The $54 million the member is talking about is money that we have to have in conjunction with New Brunswick to address a serious concern that both provinces have.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I take it the Agricultural Marshland Conservation Commission was not consulted, then.

A recent FOIPOP obtained by our caucus reveals that most of the projects are in Cumberland Basin, Cobequid Bay, Southern Bight, and Annapolis River systems. I'll table that. These projects are intended to be rolled out over the next 10 years. However, most of the funding is backloaded, and that is years away - most of this is years away. Experts have expressed that action needs to happen now to protect our coastlines, so the delay in action is concerning. As we saw with the Hantsport aboiteau, delaying maintenance just leads to higher costs down the road.

My question to the minister is this: If protecting our coastlines is truly a priority for this government, why is it taking years to put shovels in the ground?

KEITH COLWELL « » : The work that's being done on the dikes, as we move forward, will be done as the need is for each individual dike.

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

TIR - HALFWAY RIV. ABOITEAU: CULVERT - MISTAKE

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. Last January, after an aboiteau in the Halfway River was breached, the MLA for the area promised residents of Hantsport and Mount Denson that the province would build a new aboiteau. What the department finally built was a culvert. Within a few months, the culvert was failing and the decision was made to put doors on it, turning it into an aboiteau. The previous aboiteau had served the area for more than a century, and it was the structure the residents had wanted all along.

My question for the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal: How did his department get it so wrong, insisting that a culvert was the appropriate structure?

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I really want to thank the people in the Hantsport area for their patience in dealing with this particular situation. We are in there currently doing some finetuning of that structure that's in there. We made a provision in the original design to be able to add gates, which we have done.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the minister for that answer. The residents of Hantsport and near the Halfway River aboiteau knew what was right for their area. They insisted time and again that an aboiteau was required and that a culvert simply would not do. The government had to throw good money after that when they ultimately reversed their decision and put in the aboiteau.

[Page 3880]

The province has embarked on a plan to replace and upgrade the crumbling dike and aboiteau system in the rest of the province. It's a great announcement, referred to in the previous question, but it's wasted money unless the department builds what the community needs.

So, my question is: Will the minister commit to an extensive community consultation as part of the dike system renewal plan and will he listen to the communities this time?

LLOYD HINES « » : I really don't think that any of the money that we have spent helping the residents of the Hantsport area is bad money, Mr. Speaker. I think it's all good; a sincere effort by this government to help the community out.

We will be working closely with the MLA for the area there to continue to effect the repair that we see just down the road.

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

AGRIC. - USMCA: EXPORTS - UPDATE

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minster of Agriculture. Agricultural exports are now the third-largest export category for Nova Scotia, following seafood and tires.

The most important products exported over the past five years include wild blueberries, mink fur, miscellaneous food preparations, and vegetables. These four products comprise 70 per cent of all Nova Scotia agricultural exports.

In 2017, the largest export destination was the United States, which received 55 per cent of our agricultural exports. Naturally, Nova Scotia farmers are concerned about the impact of the new United States-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement.

Can the minister provide an update on the USMCA and how it is expected to affect agricultural exports in Nova Scotia?

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : This issue is always very important to us. The U.S. is a very important customer for us and, indeed, is our biggest trading partner. From what we can see so far, it's going to have minimum impact on our industry.

The federal government has decided to develop some new trade rules and they appear to be okay at this time.

[Page 3881]

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the minister for that answer. However, supply-managed agriculture sectors have expressed concern about this new agreement and the impact it'll have on future demands for their product.

Some of the quota for dairy include granting an additional U.S. market access of 3.59 per cent to Canada's domestic dairy market and elimination of Class 6 and 7 milk, along with limits on exportability. Poultry has a quota of 47,000 tons on entry into force, which continues to grow for the next 10 years. Eggs have an initial quota of 10 million dozen, increasing annually over the next 10 years. Turkey also has a quota over the next 10 years, and I'll table that.

Can the minister explain how supply-managed sectors will be compensated for the introduction of the increased supply of foreign milk, poultry, eggs, and turkey into the local food chain?

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : I thank the member for the question. It really is an important one falling under the auspices of trade.

The USMCA negotiation was a very long process for us - well over a year - at the provincial level. We conducted regular round tables where many of the farmers were in the member's area, that he would know very well in terms of both the individuals, the organizations, and the products themselves.

Quite frankly, one of those challenges around the USMCA negotiation was exactly that of supply management. Our voices were heard. The farmers in Nova Scotia have had a sounding board via us to the federal government directly. We're still awaiting the passage of the USMCA in the U.S. We're waiting with respect to what adjustments we may make and what happens next.

I can tell you that there was concern but the farmers of Nova Scotia were heard in this one, and we'll continue to fight for their very best interests as we move forward to the final passage of the USMCA.

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

AGRIC. - CUMB. N.: LOCAL FOOD STRATEGY - DETAILS

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Building a local food supply is a very important goal that we should be trying to achieve. Food security is important and also to create a sustainable food supply which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with food imports and food miles. A local food strategy is important, and I believe Cumberland North can play a very important role.

[Page 3882]

Cumberland County has 30 per cent of the arable farmland in the province, yet much of it goes unused. My question to the Minister of Agriculture is: Can he share with us what his department is currently doing to build a local food strategy and how Cumberland North can be a part of that?

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : As I said earlier, we are reviewing exactly how Select Nova Scotia worked. We weren't happy with the results the way it was working. We're working on a new plan and Cumberland North will definitely be part of that plan.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Cumberland North and Cumberland County have very rich soils, although there are many different soil types. On May 7th, I sent a letter to the minister asking if someone from the department would be able to meet with me to create an inventory of soil types in Cumberland, as well as to look at different land use strategies in order to get our farmland back into production. Unfortunately, I didn't get a response, so I sent the same letter to the deputy minister a month later, and I didn't get a response. Finally on August 21st, I made one more attempt, sending my request to the minister, yet another not responded to.

I really believe Cumberland North can play a large role in a local food strategy. My question to the minister is whether the minister can have someone in the department meet with me and my local farmers to help create an inventory of soils and land-use strategies.

KEITH COLWELL « » : Thank you to the member for the letters you did send us. Indeed, we're not ignoring you. We're reviewing all the land soils and doing a lot more soil testing than we have ever done in the province to get a better result from the soils.

We will definitely meet with you. It is not an issue, but we wanted to get more work done before we actually had a meeting.

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

EMO - FRAMBOISE-FOURCHU: CELLPHONE TOWERS - UPDATE

ALANA PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, in this House I have raised the issue of cellphone and land line services, as well as internet service in some of the more rural parts of Cape Breton-Richmond, namely Framboise, Fourchu, Grand River, and Dundee.

I was assured by the Minister responsible for the EMO that the government is working to ensure that all areas of Nova Scotia have access to reliable communication services. I know for a fact that a request for a proposal went out through the Municipality of Richmond over a year and a half ago now probably, but there are still no cellphone towers in those areas.

[Page 3883]

I would like to ask, especially after tabling a petition with about 531 signatures on it over a year and a half ago: Can the minister please provide the residents of Framboise-Fourchu with an update on the construction of a new cellphone tower in both the Framboise-Fourchu area as well as in Dundee?

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : I appreciate the question from the honourable member. It is a very important issue that we are, indeed, working on. We went out, I think in late May, with an RFI expression of interest looking for a cellphone gap analysis, a communications gap analysis, so we can do an actual, very detailed assessment of where those gaps might be. Then we can look at and responsibly respond to that by way of whatever necessary spending may need to occur, whether there is hardware, towers, whatever it might be, Mr. Speaker. We'll continue to work on that.

ALANA PAON « » : As well all know, after Hurricane Dorian, thousands of Nova Scotians were left without access to cell or land line services, which threatened the safety of these residents in the case of an emergency. This is an everyday occurrence in Framboise, Fourchu, Grand River, and Dundee. One resident contacted me recently, terrified that they did not have land line service for almost three weeks post-hurricane. These are the same people who don't have access to cellphone coverage. There is no way for these people to call for help, Mr. Speaker.

It's good to hear that there are assessments happening. I would like to ask the minister: What concrete help - a commitment of assistance - can the minister give my constituents who are going without ongoing, reliable communication services in these areas?

CHUCK PORTER « » : The honourable member's question raises a very important issue, and we do continue to work on this. We're hoping to have some results from that analysis very soon, Mr. Speaker. We also know that the emergency services that are out there do have, fortunately, a way of communicating through the trunk mobile radio that does exist. We have used that for years. It is there.

It is not a telephone line - that is for sure - but we continue to work on this. As we assess the fallout from things like Hurricane Dorian, this will be part of that debriefing, the lessons learned. We will look at how we continue to improve right across this province.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

H&W - CBRM HEALTH: REDEV. PLANS - BASIS

[Page 3884]

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I have a question for the Minister of Health and Wellness on the CBRM health care redevelopment changes. My question centres around how the government came up with these plans and what they were based on. Were they based on population of the area? Were they based on predicted demographics of an aging population? Were they based on the needs of the local population?

[2:45 p.m.]

I'm sure he wouldn't have it with him today, I wouldn't expect that, but at a future day would the minister table the evidence and the basis for the decision, specifically in terms of the reasons behind the size of the redevelopment for the various expanded services that are being offered?

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : What we've determined throughout many discussions here in the Legislature with respect to the redevelopment both here in Halifax and in Cape Breton - the fact is, we established a committee with a partnership with the Health Authority and Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal representatives to go out and engage front-line health care professionals.

Hundreds of front-line physicians and other professionals as well as community representatives, Mr. Speaker, have been part of the engagement process to understand what the health care needs for the communities are. Through that work of understanding what the needs for the communities are, they established a design requirement for the redevelopment in Cape Breton and here in Halifax.

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, surely for billions of dollars of investment there would be some evidence. It wouldn't just go from word of mouth alone.

I'm curious to know: How does government know if the changes are enough? Moving specifically to my own constituency, those regional services being offered do impact residents of my constituency when they go beyond our local hospitals in Inverness and Cheticamp - what about those hospitals and the needs of the populations they serve?

I think about things like renal dialysis, was there any consideration for expanded CBRM services, how they will impact local services, and is the government making decisions here based on evidence or are they just randomly deciding to fund projects and making decisions based on simply word of mouth?

RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, the member raises an important question around the topic of renal dialysis, hemodialysis services. This is a topic that we've discussed numerous times with members from a variety of communities across this province. As the member would know, an analysis and work was done specifically around the renal dialysis program. There are a number of recommendations to expand access to service, to reduce travel time. A lot of research and evaluation went into that.

[Page 3885]

We identified those communities and expansions of the program were identified. Much of that work is ongoing, RFPs are out, construction is under way, including in Cape Breton at the Glace Bay Regional, Mr. Speaker.

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

EMO - NORTH SYDNEY FIRE HALL: GENERATOR COST - MITIGATE

MURRAY RYAN « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister responsible for EMO. The fire hall in North Sydney has recently received a generator donated to them by Marine Atlantic. Despite it being a donation, the estimated costs of hooking it up are in the range of $30,000. With the recent hurricane, it would have enhanced their comfort station and its services. However, the cost is simply too considerable to bear alone for the fire hall.

My question for the minister: Could the minister clarify what could be done for the North Sydney fire hall to mitigate the costs of hooking up their donated generator?

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank the honourable member for a very good question. Certainly, those generators are extremely important, as we learned through the hurricane that we just experienced and the number of power outages. We will continue to work with our fire services right across this province and other community organizations that supply us with comfort centres. If there's a possible way that we can assist that department, I'd be happy to talk to them.

Let's not forget, Mr. Speaker, something we've done annually for quite some years now is the Emergency Services Provider Fund. We're very involved with our fire services across this province and we'll continue to be.

MURRAY RYAN « » : As mentioned, Mr. Speaker, the cost of simply hooking up a generator is considerable for all regions, not just in North Sydney. However, changes did occur to the Emergency "911" Act this past Spring. Adjustments were made in hope of making more services available to Nova Scotians during emergency and severe weather events. This may include providing comfort centres with satellite phones or helping provide enhanced cellphone charging services for citizens during prolonged weather events or emergencies.

Mr. Speaker, could the minister verify when the applicants will be able to access the funds provided for in the . . .

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

The honourable Minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

[Page 3886]

HON. KAREN CASEY « » : Mr. Speaker, if I could just provide clarity and correction based on an information and question that came from the member from Kings North. There was a suggestion in his question that the ad with the Tide Fest was running to promote a Liberal candidate during the election. I'd like to just correct the record to say that that ad was an ad for celebration in the community and it was pulled on the day the writ was dropped. It has not been running during the election.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Health and Wellness on an introduction.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I direct my colleagues' attention to the Speaker's Gallery - to your gallery, Mr. Speaker - where Chief Petty Officer Andrew Carnegie is visiting from the West Coast, doing some work here with the local navy site. He's also - fortunately or unfortunately - my cousin. He's here to see the facility here and the proceedings here. So, if I could ask my colleagues to give him a warm welcome of the Legislature. (Applause)

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Second Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 175.

Bill No. 175 - Marine Renewable-energy Act

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Mines and Energy.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that Bill No. 175, the Marine Renewable-energy Act, be now read a second time. I'm pleased today to be able to talk a bit more about amendments we intend to make to the Marine Renewable-energy Act.

The changes are all about making sure Nova Scotia remains at the leading edge of developing tidal technologies. Doing so will grow our green economy and create jobs in rural areas in our province. It will also help us to continue to lead the fight against climate change and add more green electricity to our grid.

Through these amendments, government will issue new power purchase agreements to developers at FORCE. FORCE is the world's leading tidal research facility and the companies there are doing ground-breaking work. Once their projects are operational, the developers at FORCE will continue to have the ability to sell electricity to the utility for up to 15 years. This gives developers time to make the most of their significant investments and build on their progress to date.

[Page 3887]

Make no mistake, Mr. Speaker, this government remains committed to greening the electricity grid as part of our fight against climate change. We are excited about the future of tidal. Tidal energy continues to be a huge opportunity for us. This year alone, we have seen tens of millions of dollars invested in companies by the federal government.

We've seen two new players come to the Bay of Fundy to test their technologies. In some of my conversations with one developer, I know the company has significant plans to build their devices right here in Nova Scotia. That would mean a lot of very good jobs. It will also mean a very strong vote of confidence for the skill of our workers and for our province being open for business. We are seeing this kind of progress, but it could still take decades for a new industry to develop.

Mr. Speaker, that's why government needs to make these changes. And that's why industry supports these amendments. According to Marine Renewables Canada, we are recognizing the challenges that tidal energy faces to reach commercialization. The industry group says these amendments establish the predictability and certainty tidal developers need to attract investment and ensure projects advance successfully.

Sustainable Marine Energy is planning to build North America's biggest instream tidal array and the company welcomes our news. They say a supportive and stable market environment is required to deliver commercially viable, abundant, and predictable clean energy. Mr. Speaker, that's what these amendments deliver - the supportive and stable market industry needs to be successful.

We are a leader in tidal energy research and development. We understand how this technology can be a global clean energy game changer. If we make the most of this opportunity, it means jobs, prosperity, and a cleaner energy future for all of us. We are at the beginning of this race, but already we can see that we're on the right track. That's because we know what it means to be a leader in clean energy and technology. Nova Scotia is a leader in fighting climate change by reducing emissions. We have set one of the most aggressive greenhouse gas reduction targets in the country.

We are leaders in energy efficiency: 16,000 low income Nova Scotians have had free energy efficiency upgrades since 2007; more than 120,000 homes in Nova Scotia have installed an energy saving heat pump; more than 200 businesses and 1,400 people now work in the energy efficiency industry. Energy efficiency avoids more than one million tons of carbon emissions each year.

Here too, we continue to build on our successes. Over the next three to four years, we are investing nearly $120 million in programs that reduce emissions and fight climate change. We are investing $25 million in energy efficiency upgrades that will improve 2,400 Mi'kmaw homes and 11,500 public housing units. Over the past 10 years, renewable energy use has more than tripled. We are leaders in Atlantic Canada for wind installations.

[Page 3888]

The amount of solar electricity generated here has tripled in the past year as more than 500 families have participated in the SolarHomes program. More than 70 community organizations have been approved to add solar panels to their buildings and can sell electricity to their utility. Perhaps most impressively, when we started the SolarHomes program last year, there were 13 approved installers in the province - today, there are 57. That's hundreds of new jobs.

And all of this is to say that Nova Scotia has been here before. We know the benefit of taking a leadership role in the fight against climate change; we know the jobs and economic benefits that come with supporting an early stage developing industry.

We all see the potential and more in our tidal industry. We have led the way in Canada and in North America. With tidal energy we have the opportunity to lead the world to a cleaner energy future. I look forward to comments from my colleagues.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, if Nova Scotia can do something with tidal energy, it will be a real game changer for our province. Potentially, it will be a real game changer for our province.

The question I ask is, what's in it for Nova Scotians? I can understand these companies are taking a great risk to try to develop this technology, but I ask again, what's in it for Nova Scotians? I think their interests need to be protected.

I think the federal government has invested $27 million to date in some of these companies; that's probably in addition to R and D tax credits they're getting. Then we have this rate that's in this bill, which is a high rate. Now it's capped, the amount of energy that we purchased, but I'm okay with that in the sense that this is encouraging a form of renewable development that could make a real difference not only for our province but for the world. But I am not leaving the point of where the money is coming from to support this research and development, and it's coming from taxpayers.

I think the government should really have an eye on this. For instance, is there a vision for royalties in the future for this power if it becomes commercialized? It is energy. It belongs to nature; but it belongs to our province. We should be ensuring that if it becomes a lucrative form of energy, some of this investment that Nova Scotians are putting up right now to support these companies, comes back to Nova Scotians.

If it's not royalties, perhaps it's arrangements where Nova Scotians benefit from this green energy by way of a better price than what's out there in the marketplace. If this tidal energy becomes commercialized, I could foresee it garnering a high price out in the marketplace. What does that mean for Nova Scotians? Are they going to have to pay that high price too? Or do they get something back for this investment the government is making now? That is the question that I would ask.

[Page 3889]

I know this is capped, but I would also mention the issue of affordability. Because this is capped at about 1 per cent or a little less than 1 per cent of the power that's consumed in the province right now, it's not going to have a significant impact on the price of power, but it might help to spur this development.

Those are the things that are in my mind. I look forward to hearing from other members on what their thoughts are.

[3:00 p.m.]

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

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : I'm very happy to speak to this bill, the Act to Amend Chapter 32 of the Acts of 2015, the Marine Renewable-energy Act.

I'm really glad to see this bill coming forward. We need to see a renewal of the ability to issue purchase power agreements for tidal energy. Absolutely, tidal could be a game changer. It's an exciting thing to think about. It's obvious that we need to harness a range of renewable energy sources in order to keep our planet from warming more than 1.5 degrees.

Tidal is an important and exciting avenue and it needs a guaranteed market for its electricity, but it's worth noting that it's also very risky and that we are always aware of the failed Cape Sharp Tidal Venture. I mention this because I believe, and our caucus believes, it is crucial to make large-scale investments in proven renewable energy sources as well, such as wind. The minister himself mentioned that this could take decades to come on board, to come fully onside.

I just want to make a couple of comments on things that have already been said in the House today on this. We know already that the cheapest and most effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is deep energy retrofit, and the minister did speak a little bit about that.

Honestly, Nova Scotia has some great programs. The Efficiency Nova Scotia programs are excellent, but given that and given the deep need to speed up the work that is being done so that we can meet targets that Nova Scotia doesn't have - and I'll speak to that in a second - targets that the IPCC and the UN are saying are absolutely necessary, we need to do more. We already have the technology; we already have the workers. We could expand our economy by miles by really investing in energy retrofits and the programs we already have - triple the program, quadruple the program, and see where we get.

[Page 3890]

When my colleague, the member for Inverness says what's in it for Nova Scotia, I would argue that what's in it for Nova Scotia is a planet to live on. I'm totally serious about that, folks - we have to stop dancing around this issue, and we need real commitment from all sides of this House to get us to a place where our targets are responsible targets.

Speaking of targets, the minister has said that we have aggressive targets and some of the most aggressive targets in this country - we do not. We had aggressive targets at one time, but we know now that the targets have to be improved. We know that we need to have 50 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions, below 1990 levels, and we need to get to net zero by 2050. If we are not on that course, then we are on a course that is going to allow the planet to warm to catastrophic levels.

Speaking of that, that brings me to my next point, which is the EGSPA legislation and the EGSPA consultations. The idea that some of the language around that new bill might remove environmental goals or that there's a question around removing the wording "environmental goals" from that bill, to me, is reprehensible. We need to make sure we are using the EGSPA legislation to improve our targets.

Anyway, getting back to the bill at hand, I would say that I am excited about tidal energy but I do think that in the meantime, we need to improve the stuff that we are working on to make sure that we have strong targets and that we can save ourselves from catastrophic climate change.

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

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to say a few words about this Marine Renewable-energy Bill also. I do recognize the incredible potential of the Bay of Fundy. We in Kings North, which borders that whole area, call it "the roar of the moon," the moon that makes the tide move. The immense amount of power that is there, if we could even harness a tiny fraction of it, would make a huge difference for all of the reasons my colleagues have stated. Those are just tremendous opportunities, so in that sense, this is a great bill.

I just want to highlight two issues that we have had. In fact, we've had these issues in Kings North with Fundy FORCE and the whole renewable-energy sector and what's happening there.

The first was that I was very disappointed that OpenHydro went bankrupt. Of course, we all were. Somebody in that company had to know that they were going bankrupt, so to have put down that turbine two days before they went bankrupt was a deeply cynical move on someone's part in that company. I don't believe that would have been the local people.

[Page 3891]

What happened out of that was that there were hundreds of thousands of dollars left owing to companies in my constituency - friends of mine who worked on that. One friend of mine in particular worked on that.

Even though I applaud their efforts and what they were trying to achieve, the way that this all went down was deeply cynical on the part of OpenHydro. Now, as a province, we are left with - I don't know - a 200-ton piece of steel out in the channel that's been there for a year, with no possibility or no end in sight as to when that will be lifted or removed, or if it will ever be lifted or removed. I understand that the barge that was capable of doing that has been sold at auction in the proceeds from this bankruptcy, so the equipment to lift and remove it isn't even there.

I guess the first thing I would have liked to have seen in the bill going forward, or maybe as we learn lessons as a result of this, is that there at least needs to be very solid provision or performance bonds or insurance or something for the cost of removal of derelict equipment when it goes wrong.

International companies can go bankrupt. In reality, the whole company didn't go bankrupt, but a subsidiary of a larger company went bankrupt. International companies can walk away from this.

I can understand why. I know not every business venture works out, even for large companies, so I don't fault them for that. But for the company to put that in the water and then go bankrupt two days later is unconscionable, in my opinion.

We should have in the legislation somewhere some sort of performance bonds that account for when things go wrong. Obviously, for individual entrepreneurs doing business with them, I know there are structures in place for that, and it's very unfortunate for those who are left owing money. I am concerned about them, too, so that's one issue.

A second issue that we've seen in Kings North is the fact that the fishing industry uses those waters. I'm a landlubber - I am not a fisherman - but how I've come to understand how fishers look at their licences is, if you have a licence to fish lobster, you actually have turf. You know where you are going to put your lobster pots. There are actually fishers who have turf who fish that area.

OpenHydro and Fundy FORCE have kind of forced them out of that area because it has sort of become off-limits. There is a loss of some fishing grounds, and it depends on the species. It might be that various fishers have licences - maybe one for herring, one for lobster, one for flounder - and it could affect any of those in different ways.

I just want to be sure that when we go ahead with this, the fishing industry is looked after and not left behind, and that it's just not assumed, well, you have a licence to fish anywhere you want in the water, so you can go fish somewhere else. That's not how they see it. They see this as: this is my area and that's your area and that's your area. Somebody is displaced by this activity. I would like to see a more equitable accounting of that. Those would be my two concerns.

[Page 3892]

Obviously, the potential for the province is just incredible. We do want to see tidal power go ahead, and we want to see it succeed, of course. We don't want to see it fail.

These companies that go at great risk and develop this technology - we want to see them succeed and prosper, but we want to make sure that the details are looked after in whatever agreements that we ask these companies to make.

With those words, I will take my seat.

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

The honourable Minister of Energy and Mines.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, in closing, I thank my colleagues for their comments on the bill. I believe every government that has sat on this side has, at some point, had the tidal as part of their files. I know everybody sees the potential of what the beautiful Bay of Fundy could hold for Nova Scotia in the future.

A follow-up on some of the comments from my colleague with the NDP: energy efficiency is very important to us. That's why we've expanded the programs that we have, expanding past electric, just electric heated homes. The partnership we have with the Mi'kmaw communities is first in Canada. It's very innovative. We've expanded significantly in the last year to ensure that as many Nova Scotians as possible can access those Efficiency Nova Scotia programs, and we're going to continue to do that.

I'll close by saying it's a great potential for the province. I see great benefit for Nova Scotians, not only on the economic side but on the social side as well. As I said in my opening comments, we now have companies that are interested in the Bay of Fundy that actually want to build their technologies here, which is a big step forward for us. We continue to see millions of dollars of investment, and this bill will allow that investment to continue.

With that, I close second reading on Bill No. 175, Marine Renewable-energy Act amendments.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 175. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

[Page 3893]

Ordered that this bill be referred to the Committee on Law Amendments.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 177.

Bill No. 177 - Public Utilities Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The Minister of Energy and Mines.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Mr. Speaker, I move second reading of Bill No. 177, amendments to the Public Utilities Act. I'm pleased today to be able to talk a bit about the amendments we intend to make to the Public Utilities Act.

These changes are about making our large utilities more efficient. By large utilities we mean organizations with more than $100 million in revenue; this would be Nova Scotia Power, Nova Scotia Power Maritime Link Inc., and Halifax Water. Being more efficient saves these organizations time and money, and that helps keep bills stable for ratepayers.

No one likes red tape, especially this government. Over the past six years we've taken extraordinary measures to cut red tape so that our economy can thrive. We've created the Office of Regulatory Affairs and Service Effectiveness. As a result, we are now a national leader on improving our regulatory environment. By cutting red tape, our businesses now save $34 million every year.

If cutting red tape makes sense for Nova Scotia businesses, it also makes sense for our utilities. The Department of Energy and Mines understands this. That's why through these amendments we are reducing unnecessary regulatory filings.

Right now, utilities need to seek approval from the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board for spending above $250,000 when that spending is outside of their annual capital plan. By raising the limit to $1 million, we can eliminate roughly 40 approvals. In general, utilities spend $50,000 or more per application; that means the savings associated with cutting this red tape could be $2 million or more.

For Nova Scotia Power, examples of this type of work include routine business such as valve replacements on boilers, replacing a transformer at a hydro station, or replacing cooling water intake screens at power plants. For Halifax Water, this work could include storm sewer renewal or culvert replacements. These are routine items. They certainly do not need unnecessary costs and delays attached to them.

Plus, the system will continue to ensure that ratepayers receive value for dollars spent. At the end of the day, this spending will remain transparent and accountable.

[Page 3894]

The regulator will still have the ability to determine if expenses are in the best interest of ratepayers. Whether it's by government or utility, Nova Scotians want and deserve to know their money is being spent wisely.

[3:15 p.m.]

That accountability is a big part of government's 25-year electricity plan. Nova Scotians have said they want predictable power rates and greater accountability. The electricity plan is delivering. We are in a stretch of unprecedented electricity rate stability. Over the past three years, rate increases have been lower than the rate of inflation and that will continue for the foreseeable future.

This period of time has given us the opportunity to take a long-term view of Nova Scotia's energy future. Our goal is to achieve overall energy stability, keeping costs low and keeping rates stable. At the same time, Nova Scotia Power is more accountable than ever before. Performance standards are in place for customer service, reliability, and storm response, plus the Utility and Review Board has the tools to ensure that Nova Scotians pay only the lowest in actual costs of fuel for electricity.

Mr. Speaker, through the electricity plan, government is opening the door to innovation and development. We are supporting electric vehicle use, solar electricity, and the development of our tidal industry, but Nova Scotians will always want to know how their money is being spent and if they have received good value from their utility. That's the role of the Utility and Review Board and these amendments to the Public Utilities Act do not change that. By reducing the number of pre-approvals needed, these amendments save time and money by making utilities more efficient. Cutting this red tape keeps power and water rates stable for Nova Scotians.

Also included in these amendments are a few clarifications for long-term natural gas pipeline contract regulations. We announced those changes in June. They are designed to give the URB the ability to approve long-term contracts and they align with the Public Utilities Act and the Gas Distribution Act. These agreements have the potential to provide Nova Scotians with reliable access to natural gas while keeping electricity prices stable.

The Utility and Review Board will independently consider whether proposed agreements are in the best interests of ratepayers. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I look forward to the comments from my colleagues.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Inverness.

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, this seems like a common sense piece of legislation. I know that one interesting statistic would be - I don't know if it's possible or not, if the minister could maybe deliver it at some point in the future - to know how many applications have been in on an annual basis that now won't have to go in anymore because they'll fall below the new $1 million threshold. It would be interesting to hear that.

[Page 3895]

Mr. Speaker, we are for anything that helps remove red tape, as long as it's also in the interests of the ratepayers. In this case I think it would be because it should reduce costs for these approvals but also protects the consumer with the URB still having the ability to go back and review these expenses to make sure they were done appropriately and in the interests of the consumer.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I'm not going to take a lot of time. We will be supporting this bill.

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

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to speak to this bill. Yes, cut red tape for utilities. The Utility and Review Board and the department have all independently asked for this change, and we think it's probably a good idea. But it makes sense to me that if we want to reduce the administrative burden on all involved and if we're looking for ways to improve our utilities, then there are lots of other places we could look as well.

One thing I do want to talk about in this forum is that we need to keep energy poverty at top of mind. Mr. Speaker, I know as a constituency MLA in Dartmouth North, there are many, many people who simply cannot afford to pay their power bills. It's a question of rates but it's also a question of income inadequacy; it's a question of energy efficiency once again. People are living in buildings where their heat is going out the leaky windows and the uninsulated walls. All of these things go hand in hand, and we need to make sure that we have electricity and power that is affordable for everybody. Nobody should be living with the threat of losing the ability to store and prepare food or even heat their homes because they cannot afford to pay their power bill.

I know that many people, come April/May, when the temperatures get high enough - we call it power cut-off season in Dartmouth North because so many people have just made it through the winter but then are in arrears and cannot afford it, and their power is cut off. We should be reminded also that Nova Scotia Power's private monopoly model is bad for taxpayers and that's something that this government and this Premier has described himself.

So, I look forward to continuing the work on how to make improvements to large utilities and how they're regulated in the province, all the while ensuring accessibility and affordability.

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

[Page 3896]

The honourable Minister of Energy and Mines.

HON. DEREK MOMBOURQUETTE « » : Just briefly, Mr. Speaker, thank you to my colleagues for their comments. Just to reiterate, we're making some changes here that are going to reduce red tape. It's going to reduce some of the filings that will go through but ultimately the oversight still remains. So, there are accountability standards, everything still remains in place to ensure that the URB still has the ability to do their job.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I close second reading of the Public Utilities Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 177. 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. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : That concludes government business for today, Mr. Speaker. I move that the House now rise to meet again tomorrow, Wednesday, October 9, 2019, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

As is the tradition of the House, Wednesday is Opposition Day, so I now turn the floor over to the Progressive Conservative House Leader to call tomorrow's agenda.

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

ALLAN MACMASTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the Government House Leader. I can't guarantee we'll be as efficient tomorrow with the time; we may go a little longer than today, but I would like to call Public Members' Private Bills for Second Reading: Bill No. 167, An Act to Amend the Tobacco Access Act - that's vaping; Bill No. 173, An Act to Amend the Education Act and the CSAP Act; Human Trafficking; and Bill No. 181, An Act to Amend the Public Utilities Act respecting Charitable Housing. We look forward to joining again tomorrow.

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

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

The motion is carried.

The House now stands adjourned until tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.

[Page 3897]

[The House rose at 3:22 p.m.]

NOTICE OF QUESTIONS FOR WRITTEN ANSWERS

[Page 3898]

Given on October 8, 2019

(Pursuant to Rule 30)

QUESTION NO. 4

By: Gary Burrill

To: Hon. Chuck Porter (Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing)

Every day, Nova Scotians who rely on wheelchair-accessible forms of transportation struggle to find a reliable way to get from point A to B. The number of wheelchair-accessible taxis in Halifax has shrunk to just 18 today from 47 in 2015. Part of the reason is that operating a wheelchair accessible taxi is significantly less cost effective than a conventional taxi. In April of this year, HRM Mayor Mike Savage sent a letter to the Minister of Municipal Affairs asking for a change to the Municipal Charter that would allow HRM to provide a purchase grant and operating subsidy for accessible vehicles.

(1) Will the minister commit to making this important change to the Municipal Charter so that Nova Scotians who rely on wheelchairs can get around?

(2) What government support is available for taxi operators who want to be able to operate a wheelchair-accessible vehicle?

(3) How is the government ensuring that the Nova Scotians' human rights are not violated when it comes to accessibility in transportation

QUESTION NO. 2

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

To: Hon. Kelly Regan (Minister of Community Services)

The September 19, 2019 budget forecast update included an additional appropriation of more than $20 million. The majority of that was attributable to a significant increase in the number of children in designated places of safety.

(1) How many children were in designated places of safety during the 2019-20 fiscal year?

(2) How many children were in designated places of safety during the 2018-19 and 2017-18 fiscal years?

(3) What is the average cost per day for a child in a designated place of safety?

[Page 3899]

(4) As of today, how many children in designated places of safety are in hotels? How many are in apartments?

(5) Are any children in designated places of safety outside of the province and, if so, how many?

QUESTION NO. 3

By: Susan Leblanc (Dartmouth North)

To: Hon. Kelly Regan (Minister of Community Services)

On April 3, 2019, I asked the minister about the government's consultation and intention to introduce legislation to open adoption records. At that time, the minister indicated consultations would take place later this year with legislation to follow.

(1) What public consultation has been conducted to date?

(2) Will the minister table legislation before the end of this sitting?

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 3900]

RESOLUTION NO. 1265

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Arthur Turner of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Arthur Turner for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1266

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Boyd Prest of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

[Page 3901]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Boyd Prest for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1267

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Carter Verge of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Carter Verge for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1268

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

[Page 3902]

Whereas Dale Bellefontaine of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Dale Bellefontaine for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1269

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Dennis Churchill of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Dennis Churchill for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1270

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

[Page 3903]

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Doug Meldrum of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Doug Meldrum for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1271

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Forest Vanbuskirk of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Forest Vanbuskirk for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1272

[Page 3904]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Frank Walsh of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Frank Walsh for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1273

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Haley Leslie of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Haley Leslie for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

[Page 3905]

RESOLUTION NO. 1274

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Shane Lowe of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Shane Lowe for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1275

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Jeff Boutilier of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

[Page 3906]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Jeff Boutilier for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1276

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas John Asprey of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking John Asprey for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1277

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

[Page 3907]

Whereas John Day of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking John Day for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1278

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Joseph MacIsaac of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Joseph MacIsaac for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1279

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

[Page 3908]

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Josh Jennings of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Josh Jennings for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1280

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Laurenda Lacey of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Laurenda Lacey for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1281

[Page 3909]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Louis Boutilier of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Louis Boutilier for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1282

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Marlow Bezanson of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Marlow Bezanson for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

[Page 3910]

RESOLUTION NO. 1283

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian, resulting in downed trees and power lines, flooding, and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Michael Young of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Michael Young for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1284

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Mitchell Allen of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

[Page 3911]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Mitchell Allen for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1285

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Noble Keizer of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Noble Keizer for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1286

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

[Page 3912]

Whereas Randy Imlay of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Randy Imlay for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1287

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Ross Blakney of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Ross Blakney for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1288

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

[Page 3913]

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Shawn Deveau of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Shawn Deveau for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1289

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Shawn Dewolfe of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Shawn Dewolfe for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1290

[Page 3914]

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Stephen Holman of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Stephen Holman for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1291

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Steven Redmond of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Steven Redmond for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

[Page 3915]

RESOLUTION NO. 1292

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas Walter Dahr of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Walter Dahr for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

RESOLUTION NO. 1293

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (Eastern Shore)

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

Whereas employees of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal work year-round to keep our vast network of provincial roads and buildings safe and functioning; and

Whereas on September 7, 2019, Nova Scotia experienced the effects of Hurricane Dorian resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooding and storm surges across the province; and

Whereas William Morash of the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal worked tirelessly during and after Hurricane Dorian to ensure that our roads and highways were clear and safe for emergency service providers and the general public;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking William Morash for aiding in the hurricane cleanup and helping to ensure the safety of the people of the Eastern Shore and all Nova Scotians.

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