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HALIFAX, FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2021

Sixty-third General Assembly

Third Session

9:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Kevin Murphy

DEPUTY SPEAKERS

Keith Bain, Susan Leblanc

THE SPEAKER » : Order, please. Just before we begin the daily routine, I would like to take care of a couple of housekeeping items.

To reference the two petitions that were tabled yesterday, I just want to bring some clarification. The petition brought forth by the honourable member for Chester-St. Margaret's - that petition is okay and properly formatted, and that petition is tabled.

But upon further review, the petition that was introduced yesterday by the honourable member for Pictou East does not comply with Rule No. 63 for the proper format of petitions. Therefore, we are not able to accept that petition, and it is returned to the honourable member for Pictou East.

I would also, in my capacity as Speaker, just like to acknowledge that yesterday really was our first full day in the hybrid format. I would be remiss if I did not offer, on behalf of all of the members, our thanks and gratitude to the collection of staff who work hard behind the scenes and have for quite some time in leading up to the resumption of this sitting.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work, the dedication and the professionalism of the Clerks and those who support the Clerks at the Table; the staff at Legislative Counsel; the staff at Legislative Television; the Library staff; Hansard; the Speaker's admin staff; the legislative staff who work in the building; the security here in the building; the caucus staff; the House Operations staff, including the Pages; the committee staff; and last but not least, the House Leaders, who have spent a tremendous amount of time putting together the plan so that we could all safely return here, as well as the members.

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I have said all along that this new format is going to work only with the co-operation and patience of every single person involved in this. I won't declare the sitting a success just yet. We've got a long way to go, but to get over that hump of day one and a half, I guess we could call it, I do want to express complete appreciation and gratitude for all involved there.

Having said that, I would like to move on to the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

Bill No. 23 - Entitled an Act to Open Adoption Records in Nova Scotia. (Hon. Kelly Regan)

Bill No. 24 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 4 of the Acts of 1992. The Emergency "911" Act. (Susan Leblanc)

Bill No. 25 - Entitled an Act to Establish a Mental Health Bill of Rights. (Susan Leblanc)

Bill No. 26 – Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 214 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Human Rights Act. (Alana Paon)

Bill No. 27 – Entitled an Act to Ensure Equity Among Members of the House of Assembly. (Alana Paon)

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

NOTICES OF MOTION

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STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

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

GRADSTEIN, JANNEKE - PHYSICIAN: FUNDRAISING MARATHON

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Mr. Speaker, today I'd like to recognize one of Cumberland North's health care heroes, Dr. Janneke Gradstein.

Dr. Gradstein is Health Services Director at the Cumberland County Regional Health Care Centre. Dr. Gradstein recently ran a marathon of 43 kilometres in support of the emergency room nurses, as well as all health care workers at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre.

Her theme for the run was Every Shift Is a Marathon. Dr. Gradstein raised over $7,500 for the recruitment and retention fund. She achieved this support through the many staff who have been working hard during this pandemic. Her appreciation and support for them is very clear in her passion for the run.

Today, I ask all members to join me in thanking Dr. Gradstein for her leadership, appreciation, and an example of one of Cumberland North's health care heroes.

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

MURPHY, SHARON: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the passing on February 28, 2021, of Sharon Murphy.

Sharon Murphy was a long-time anti-poverty activist, both in Cumberland County and here in Halifax. As a social worker, most of Sharon's professional life focused on mental health, and she served as the vice-president of the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Sharon was dependably to be found at political demonstrations - always calling for justice and raising her voice on behalf of those who couldn't speak themselves. Her advocacy for higher social assistance rates and for real, affordable housing, for increased OAS payments for seniors, and toward a basic income for everyone are a major part of her legacy.

I'm sure that the House joins me in honouring the memory of this fierce, committed advocate for social and economic justice.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth.

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HUMANKIND NS: COM. SERV. - THANKS

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : One of the great things about Nova Scotia is the excellent community spirit that the people have here. In my constituency in Yarmouth, we also have great examples of this.

HumanKind NS has started a big project in Yarmouth - to fix the home of the Nickerson family. Their home is in dire need of repair, everything from windows, siding, flooring, Gyproc, insulation, and more. Our community, inspired by the leadership and generosity of HumanKind NS has rallied to help this family out.

Local businesses, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians have donated their products and services. Many individuals including local municipal councillor for the Yarmouth district, Loren Cushing, have donated their help, funds, and time to help see this project through.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking HumanKind NS for reminding us that we are a community that looks out for, and helps, each other. I'd encourage everyone to donate or help out with what they can. You can find HumanKind NS on Facebook.

[9:15 a.m.]

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

GILCHRIST, ALEX: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

MURRAY RYAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honour of the late Alex Gilchrist, who passed away this past January at the age of 87.

Alex, a Saskatchewan native, came in 1956 to North Sydney, where he began a 37-year career as an educator, teacher, guidance counsellor, and principal. In addition to being a great teacher, Alex was supportive of the school's sports teams, serving as team manager, mentor, and coach to many.

Alex truly made our community his own with his endless volunteering and involvement in the Rotary Club, Northern Yacht Club, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, and the North Sydney Historical Society, to name a few. Alex was also a long-time member and elder of the St. Matthew Wesley United Church.

Alex may have left us, but we have the wonderful memories that will not be forgotten.

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

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TEA PARTY:

REMEMBERING AFRICAN NOVA SCOTIAN ELDERS - THANKS

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, we gather as family, as community, as humans, to celebrate and to grieve. This past year has been incredibly difficult for many reasons. I have certainly missed those moments of collective celebration and grief, and so I want to remember and appreciate the tea party to which I was invited last August 15^th in the backyard of Ms. Cecelia "Tunney" Gray Flint on Brunswick St. with the assistance of Cynthia Murray, Barbara Gero, and Twyla Lucas-Adams, and other enlisted volunteers. They decorated the backyard, furnished it with linen-covered tables, and supplied finger sandwiches and other delicacies.

The event honoured African Nova Scotian elders who had passed away in the previous five months, when gathering even in a backyard was impossible, some of them from COVID-19 at Northwood. The elders remembered were Geraldine Parker, Thelma Ince, Madeline Beals, Marlene Patterson, Uncle Gunny Loppie, Geoffrey Croucher, Evelina Upshaw, Jahalia Smith, Doris Johnson, Margaret Izzard Brown, Toya Cain, Derek Carvery, Veldez Smith.

It was an honour to be present and to remember them.

THE SPEAKER « » : Just before we continue with Member Statements, I did notice a procedural error here. I called for Government Notices of Motion, but I do have a list here.

With the consent of the House, I'll revert back to Government Notices of Motion so we can get those in.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

We will revert back to Government Notices of Motion.

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture.

RESOLUTION NO. 117

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice on a future day that we move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nova Scotians care about supporting local, and it has never been more important and easier to do;

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Whereas our Government's Get Your Hands on Local program has made it easier to find and purchase homegrown products at retailers province-wide;

Whereas retailers including Sobeys, Atlantic Superstore, Walmart, and a growing collection of independents are featuring Get Your Hands on Local in-store signage to help customers identify Nova Scotia-grown and -produced food and beverages;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House recognize that in the province known for its world-class food and beverage offerings, having Nova Scotians consume more products harvested and grown and produced by our local food industry supports a stronger Nova Scotia economy.

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.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

RESOLUTION NO. 118

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

Whereas March 8 to March 12, 2021, is la Semaine de l'éducation en franç​​ais, or French Education Week, in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas French Education Week is an opportunity to educate Nova Scotians about the benefits of French first language education for all ages; and

Whereas French Education Week celebrates the vibrancy and vitality of the Acadian and francophone communities of our province;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this Legislature recognize March 8^th-March 12^th as French Education Week and join our Acadian and francophonie learners, teachers, and staff to celebrate la Semaine de l'éducation en franç​​ais.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of the Public Service Commission.

RESOLUTION NO. 119

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

Whereas on March 8^th we celebrated International Women's Day; and

Whereas more than half of our 11,000 civil servants are women, and as well, more than half of our deputy ministers and associate deputy ministers are women; and

Whereas our All Together strategy has a goal to ensure that these numbers continue to grow, especially in positions where they are underrepresented;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature recognize and celebrate all women in our civil service and their contribution to our workforce.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

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The honourable Minister of the Public Service Commission.

RESOLUTION NO. 120

HON. BEN JESSOME « » : I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Ms. Andrea Anderson has recently been promoted as Public Service Commissioner; and

Whereas Commissioner Anderson is Nova Scotia's first African Nova Scotian Public Service Commissioner, bringing decades of experience as a human resources professional and a long-standing passion for diversity and inclusion work to this very important role; and

Whereas Andrea has led government's recent work on anti-Black racism and unconscious bias;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature join me in congratulating Andrea Anderson on her well-deserved appointment as commissioner.

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

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

We will revert back to the balance of the time for members' statements.

STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Lunenburg.

SAYER, BOB - INDUCTEE: SOCCER HALL OF FAME - RECOG.

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HON. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bob Sayer of Lunenburg on his induction into the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame under the Builder category. Anyone who knows Bob Sayer knows his passion for soccer. Bob has coached soccer for more than 25 years and founded both the Lunenburg District Youth Soccer Association and the Lunenburg Lasers Soccer Club. He has also coached provincial and Atlantic championships from high schools and club teams.

He was part of the National Organizing Committee for the 1987 World Youth Cup and served on Soccer Nova Scotia's board of directors. Bob is also known for this advocacy and work in the launch and development of Canadian women's soccer programs, both nationally and internationally. In the 1980s, he played a key role in promoting the creation of women's soccer - their national team - and served as vice-president of Canada Soccer.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize Bob Sayer for his outstanding contributions to the sport of soccer in our community, province, and country, and beyond. I would ask that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating him on being named to the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame.

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

KOUWENBERG, BRODY: BRO-BOTS HOSP. FUNDRAISER - THANKS

TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to acknowledge Brody Kouwenberg of Oxford, an incredible young man and good friend of mine. Ten-year-old Brody has seen a lot of hospital time in his short life. He was born with a heart defect, which required open heart surgery moments after he was born, as well as an additional operation several years ago to implant a pacemaker.

Brody's experiences and the many check-ups have made him a caring and compassionate young individual. Brody wanted to do something that could help other children at the IWK who had similar issues. Brody decided to make "Bro-Bots" - wooden blocks of wood used to make robots with little hearts. The money he raised will be presented to the IWK Children's Spring Telethon.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in acknowledging Brody Kouwenberg on his strength and compassion for others. Good job, little Chief.

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

GARBAGE NIGHT SESSIONS: COM. FUNDRAISING - THANKS

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KENDRA COOMBES « » : Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to congratulate Garbage Night Sessions.

Thursday night is garbage night in New Waterford, and thanks to Jenn Shepard, Stephen Muise, Jordyn Crocker, Adam MacLean, and their talented friends, garbage night will never be the same.

When lockdown started this talented group decided to take their act to Facebook to raise money for many causes and organizations in our community. Every week a new cause is chosen and people watching donate. Another special aspect of the Garbage Night Sessions was the talented musicians they featured on their show. They created a separate fund that allowed people to donate to the group to pay their musicians.

Thank you for keeping us entertained while raising funds for causes and organizations.

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

BARR, SANDRA - PH.D., INDUCTEE:

N.S. SCIENCE HALL OF FAME - CONGRATS.

HON. KEITH IRVING « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to rise in recognition of the recent International Women's Day to acknowledge the work of an accomplished geoscientist and professor who has mapped nearly half of Nova Scotia and a substantial portion of New Brunswick.

Dr. Sandra Barr of Acadia University has made an exceptional contribution to the world of science, resulting in over 170 published papers, 30 geoscience maps, and 200 conference articles. Dr. Barr was recognized for her remarkable contribution to our province recently with her induction into the Nova Scotia Science Hall of Fame.

I want to acknowledge the tremendous body of work and the outstanding career of Dr. Sandra Barr and ask all members of the House of the Nova Scotia Assembly to join me in paying tribute to Dr. Barr's induction into the Nova Scotia Hall of Fame and thank her for her dedication in the pursuit of science.

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

STANFIELD, JON: PIVOTING TO PPE - THANKS

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DAVE RITCEY « » : Mr. Speaker, as we are all aware, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we live our lives and do business. Jon Stanfield, the chief executive officer of the fifth-generation family business Stanfield's Limited in Truro, Nova Scotia, took on an important role during this pandemic.

The company pivoted their portfolio from underwear and textiles to personal protective equipment, better known as PPE, to ensure Nova Scotia and all of Canada would have access to domestic suppliers of medical gear and gowns during these unprecedented times and in the future.

Through this change in production, Jon was able to retain many of the employees and created hundreds of jobs for the community which were invaluable due to layoffs at other businesses because of the pandemic.

I would like to thank Jon Stanfield and his team at Stansfield's for their continued dedication to all Nova Scotians and all Canadians during these difficult times.

THE SPEAKER; The honourable member for Dartmouth North.

DARTMOUTH N. MENTAL HEALTH:

UNFORTUNATE RELOCATION - ADDRESS

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, Dartmouth North is a vibrant community that is home to many people facing systemic discrimination and marginalization, including a historical African Nova Scotian community.

Our beautiful community has some of the lowest incomes and some of the highest levels of social deprivation, food insecurity, and rates of mental health and addiction disorders in the province. Dartmouth North also has no publicly funded mental health and addictions clinics. From people who access these services, they currently get themselves to downtown Dartmouth to one of the three locations there. Many people walk or use mobility aids to get to their appointments, some take transit and some drive.

Later this Spring, Mental Health and Addictions will be closing all downtown Dartmouth locations and moving to a new building in Portland Hills - an increased distance of almost seven kilometres for people in Dartmouth North. This new location is difficult to access by foot, mobility aid, or public transit for people in my community and may mean the difference between getting and not getting mental health services.

Mr. Speaker, I am calling on the government to support the call from members of my community and ensure stable and permanent satellite mental health services in accessible locations in Dartmouth South.

[9:30 a.m.]

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

INTL. DAY OF THE FRANCOPHONIE:

PRESERVING LANG., CULTURE, HISTORY - RECOG.

ALANA PAON « » : Monsieur le président, le 20 Mars, nous f​êtons la Journée internationale de la Francophonie. Il y a plus de 369 millions francophones au monde. Chaque année, plusieurs activités sont organisées partout dans le monde pour promouvoir la langue franç​​aise et ses expressions culturelles. Au Canada, le franç​​ais fait partie de la richesse identitaire culturelle du pays depuis sa création.

Mr. Speaker, Cape Breton-Richmond's history is steeped in French Acadian history. Having an international day of recognition helps preserve the French language and promote our rich francophone culture. As one of the 10 most spoken languages in the world, and Canada's official second language, it's important to celebrate and highlight our country's linguistic history.

Monsieur le président, j'invite les membres de l'Assemblée de me joindre pour honorer la Journée internationale de la Francophonie et rendre hommage à​​  notre histoire et notre future.

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

DANIEL, ROB - CPL.: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

HON. LENA METLEGE DIAB « » : Mr. Speaker, our community was devastated this past summer to learn of the passing of Corporal Robert David Daniel after a short, courageous battle with gastric cancer.

Rob was a dedicated member of the RCMP for the past 20 years in the division training section and on the special tactical operations team. Indeed, he was recognized nationally and internationally for his expertise in tactical training and use of force. In 2017, Rob was honoured by the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce as the Lebanese Professional of the Year, in recognition of his business success and contributions to our province. I'm proud to share that Rob's memory will be eternalized through the creation of an RCMP Memorial Challenge Coin in his honour. Sales from the coin will go to charity.

To his wife, Lisa, daughter Sophia, mother, Youmna, siblings Elvira, Tony, and Eddie, and his aunts, uncles, niece, nephews, and cousins, know that you are in our prayers. We value Rob's legacy.

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

HARRY FREEMAN AND SON: COM. FINANCIAL SUPPORT - RECOG.

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KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, in the past year, Nova Scotians have faced numerous challenges and have shown their resilience and strength in navigating those challenges.

It was early on in this pandemic journey that Harry Freeman and Son Limited stepped up and, despite facing their own uncertain future, once again gave back. In April 2020, this community-minded business donated $10,000 to the Queens County food bank in a true act of corporate generosity. To go a step further, in September, they committed another $10,000 to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia to enhance mental health supports and services in communities throughout our province.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that all members join me in recognizing and applauding the management and staff of Freemans for their unwavering and continued support of the residents of this province and for truly helping to make a difference.

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

CULTURAL WORKERS IN N.S.: GREAT UNCERTAINTY - RECOG.

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, it's quite something to be here again after a full year, with 60 seconds to say something that matters. I have heard the work of the Legislature dismissed as theatre, except I think theatre matters, and words of leaders, in particular, matter. In Washington, D.C., recently the words of a leader incited an insurrection.

With 30 seconds left, I want to express my concern and my caring for the real theatre makers: the countless cultural workers in Nova Scotia for whom 2021 is continuing, like 2020, to be a year of great uncertainty. As I have missed being here, I also miss being at the Bus Stop or the Spatz or at Neptune, being moved or enlightened or entertained or changed by theatre.

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

EPDCC: 46^th ANNIV. - CONGRATS.

HON. KEITH COLWELL « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the East Preston Day Care, which has celebrated its 45-year anniversary of providing loving care and professional service to hundreds of children and their families. Dr. Joyce Ross, who was a founding member of the East Preston Day Care Centre, saw the need for early childhood education and worked diligently to realize this dream, overcoming many challenges. Dr. Ross organized a committee made of Joyce Gough, Shelia Ewing, Nola Thomas and Mary Margarita Thomas, and work began in 1971 to establish the East Preston Day Care Centre.

The East Preston Day Care Centre became a model for early childhood education in Nova Scotia and has improved the foundation of children's education development in East Preston.

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I recognize and congratulate East Preston Day Care Centre for 46 years of diligent service to many children and families that have benefited in many ways from this community-based day care.

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

RETAIL WORKERS: FAITHFUL SERV. DURING PANDEMIC - THANKS

LARRY HARRISON « » : Mr. Speaker, throughout the pandemic there have been people who have gone to work every day, some at great personal risk, to ensure that the rest of us can buy groceries, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, masks, prescriptions and so much more. Retail workers have had to contend with the frustrations of consumers who are unable to find what they need, with criticism and non-compliance from those frustrated with social distancing and personal protection guidelines, and with an even greater risk of contracting the virus themselves and possibly taking it home to their loved ones.

I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all front-line retail workers for the services they provide for us every day.

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

MCNEIL, MICKEY: ORIGINAL SIX MILK DRIVE - THANKS

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Mr. Speaker, Mickey McNeil founded Mickey's Original Six milk drive after hearing about families using water in their cereal and the demand the Glace Bay Food Bank had for milk. Mickey has been organizing this drive with the help of his wife for eight years. He cares passionately for the community and for the food bank.

Over the past year I have watched Mickey working tirelessly to ensure the food bank has a freezer and other items it may need to ensure that they are able to serve many people in the community.

Mickey, thank you for your dedication to helping individuals facing food insecurity.

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

HIGH SCH. ADMIN., TEACHERS, STUDENTS: RESILIENCE - RECOG.

HON. BRENDAN MAGUIRE « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize all the students and youth at not just J.L. Ilsley, our local high school, but right across Halifax Atlantic, for a very difficult 12 months. I know it's not the year that they expected, with COVID-19. Sometimes they have been separated from their friends, but they've also been separated - at times learning from home.

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I'd like to take a moment to recognize all those students and the wonderful staff and everyone who has been involved in our education system in Halifax Atlantic for all their hard work and for making a very abnormal year seem as normal as possible.

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

AFRICAN HERITAGE MO.: CELEBRATING CONTRIBS. - THANKS

BRAD JOHNS « » : Mr. Speaker, I may be a few weeks late on this, however, I did want to take my first opportunity in this sitting of the House to acknowledge African Heritage Month, which is celebrated annually throughout the month of February.

The theme of this year's African Heritage Month was "Black History Matters: Listen, Learn, Share and Act," which recognized the important legacy of persons of African descent and the long-standing place they hold in the history and development of Canada.

Although a few weeks late, I'd like to take an opportunity to thank all those who participated and helped to bring awareness to this year's African Heritage Month and thank the African Nova Scotian community for their contributions across the province.

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

RENT CONTROL: LEGISN. DESPERATELY NEEDED - RECOG.

SUSAN LEBLANC « » : Mr. Speaker, since the Legislature last met, in the Spring of 2020, the issue that I have heard about most in my community, even during COVID-19, has been, unsurprisingly, the problem of unaffordable rents and the need for permanent rent control.

Like many other members here, I have received hundreds of emails and phone calls asking me to support rent control in this House.

Rent control was also the issue that I heard about most on the doorsteps during the 2017 election - so much so that I brought the issue to our caucus to see if we could push this government to restore rent control, which the Liberal government had cut in the 1990s. Since then, myself and the member for Halifax Needham have tabled legislation on rent control, and both times the bills have died on the order paper due to the lack of support from this government.

Rent control can mean the difference between staying housed and becoming homeless for people in Dartmouth North and all over Nova Scotia, the difference between paying for groceries, medications, and power, or not paying for them.

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I fully support the temporary rent control measures that were introduced this past Fall. They have made a great difference to Nova Scotians, but we need full, permanent rent control. I hope this government will use this legislative session to bring that in.

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

NICKERSON, SHAE: ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS - CONGRATS.

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a bright young woman in science coming from the community of Hazel Hill. Shae Nickerson graduated with honours from St. F.X. University, achieving her Bachelor of Science specializing in geoscience. She received the Léopold Gélinas Medal for the most outstanding undergraduate thesis in all of Canada from the Geological Association of Canada.

This isn't the first time Shae has been the recipient of an award. She also earned the 2020 Professor Donald J. MacNeil Memorial Award for Earth Sciences and the 2020 Mining Society of Nova Scotia Centennial Scholarship Medal. Shae is an inspiration to young minds in Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie, a shining example of how hard work pays off. Shae also hopes to pursue a geology career staying right here in Nova Scotia, potentially inspiring other youths to stay here as well.

Congratulations, Shae, on your achievements, and good luck attaining your master's in geology at Acadia University this year. On behalf of all Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie constituents and the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia, we are very, very proud of you.

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

LA SEMAINE DE L'ÉDUCATION EN FRANCAIS:

L'ÈRE NUMERIQUE - FÉLICITATIONS

COLTON LEBLANC « » : Monsieur le Président, le 8 au 12 mars 2021 marque la 15^e édition de la Semaine de l'éducation en franç​​ais en Nouvelle-Écosse.

La communauté acadienne et francophone de notre province est fià​​re de sa langue, de son patrimoine et de vivre en franç​​ais.

Malgré que cette communauté soit en statut minoritaire, elle s'épanouit partout à​​ travers de la province. Les acadiens et les francophones de la Nouvelle-Écosse sont fiers de leur dynamisme, leur diversité, et le progrè​​​s accompli par leur communauté.

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Cette semaine est également importante de sensibiliser la population entiè​​​re de la province de l'importance de la langue franç​​aise et d'une éducation en franç​​ais pour tous les â​ges.

Monsieur le Président, je demande à​​  tous les membres de cette Assemblée à​​  se joindre à​​  moi pour souligner l'importance de cette semaine et de faire eux-m​êmes la promotion du franç​​ais dans leur circonscriptions.

Bonne Semaine de l'éducation en franç​​ais à​​  tous!

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

BAYERS WESTWOOD RESOURCE CTR.: COM. SERV. - THANKS

HON. PATRICIA ARAB « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an organization that I have talked about numerous times on the floor of this Legislature. The Bayers Westwood Family Resource Centre has been an amazing resource and sense of support for our entire community, but never more so than in the past year.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the team at the centre adapted so that they could continue serving families who were facing unprecedented challenges. They offered no-contact takeout meals to folks who needed them, and take-home activities for kids who suddenly had to stay away from their friends. When schools shut down, the centre made sure that kids still had access to healthy lunches. Their team made care package deliveries to seniors, safely supporting those who needed help.

Through all of their efforts, the centre made sure that the community remained connected even while they had to physically stay apart.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that the members of this House join me in thanking the team at the Bayers Westwood Family Resource Centre for their efforts in serving their community every day, but especially during the pandemic.

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

ST. JAMES ANGLICAN PARISH: MONTHLY BREAKFAST - THANK

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, since 2009 the St. James Anglican parish monthly breakfast in Kentville has been enjoyed by hundreds each month.

The menu includes bacon and eggs, along with baked beans, two varieties of fish cakes, chow, choice of toast, biscuits, muffins, yogurt, fresh fruit bowl, and tea and coffee. It is truly an amazing breakfast.

[Page 202]

While COVID-19 has temporarily closed the breakfast, I join hundreds of regulars in saying thank you to the parishioners of St. James for all those great breakfasts. We are all very much looking forward to resuming the monthly Saturday morning feast this coming year.

[9:45 a.m.]

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

KGISN: FREE GROCERY DELIVERY - THANKS

HON. LEO GLAVINE « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Kingston-Greenwood Isolation Support Network for their ingenuity and quick response to support seniors and those at risk in our community during COVID-19 by providing free grocery delivery to those who need it the most.

It goes without saying that during the pandemic, the lives of Nova Scotians changed overnight. This was especially true for our most vulnerable populations who continue to be at a higher risk for COVID-19.

The Kingston-Greenwood Isolation Support Network was formed in partnership between the Kingston Lions Club, Sobeys in Greenwood with extensive support from 14 Wing Greenwood and numerous community volunteers. I have had the pleasure of witnessing the tireless effort that was put into this initiative.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Kingston-Greenwood Isolation Support Network for stepping up without question and helping seniors. I extend my sincere gratitude to all those involved for being there for those who need it the most.

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

CAMPBELL, DOUG & GLENDA - AUTHORS:

GRIEVING OUR MURDERED DAUGHTER - RECOG.

KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize Doug and Glenda Campbell of Seafoam for the recent publication of their book Grieving Our Murdered Daughter: A Journey of Grief and Hope. It is about their most difficult journey of grieving after the murder of their daughter, Jenny Leigh, in 2017.

It is clear in their book that their 35 years of marriage and their commitment to their faith helped them through the worst time in their lives. The goal of writing the book and sharing their experience is to help others who have lost loved ones to domestic violence and express their grief.

[Page 203]

Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge Doug and Glenda Campbell for their courage and for sharing their story and I wish them continued healing and comfort.

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

BENNETT, MATT - SGT.: CERTIFICATE OF RECOG. - CONGRATS.

HON. MARK FUREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Matt Bennett of the Bridgewater Police Service who recently received the Premier's Certificate of Recognition.

On July 20, 2020, while in performance of his duties, Sgt. Bennett responded to a complaint of domestic violence. In the course of these duties, he was stabbed and received life-threatening injuries that necessitated emergency surgery.

Matt placed himself in clear danger to uphold his sworn duty to preserve public peace and public order. We're all thankful that Sgt. Bennett has recovered from his injuries and recently returned to work.

I ask all members of the Nova Scotia Legislature to join me in recognizing Sgt. Bennett for his bravery, his commitment, and his dedication to his work and community.

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

LECLERC, RENE: GRASSROOTS LDRSHIP. - THANKS

TIM HALMAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to recognize Rene Leclerc, a Dartmouth East resident who has become a community leader who champions for better conditions of our lakes.

I first had the opportunity to meet Rene when he expressed his concern for sediment found in Lake Charles, and since then, Rene Leclerc has become a key member in the fight of protecting our lakes in Dartmouth.

Dartmouth is known as the City of Lakes, and Rene is the perfect example of how residents take action to protect and improve the conditions of our community and lakes that are so meaningful to our city. As a result of his efforts, Rene is a fine example of the impact that grassroots leadership movements can have in our communities.

I would like to express my gratitude for Rene Leclerc's awareness of the pressures that commercialization and rapid growth have put on our lakes in Dartmouth.

[Page 204]

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

JAWAD, ENAS - ARTIST: COM. CONTRIB. - THANKS

RAFAH DICOSTANZO « » : Mr. Speaker, in honour of International Women's Day this past Monday, I want to recognize a woman who has provided beautiful and intricate art services in our local community of Clayton Park West.

Enas Jawad was born in Baghdad, Iraq, where she graduated with a master's degree in Fine Arts. In 2010, Enas and her family immigrated to Canada and decided to make Halifax, Nova Scotia, their new home.

Prior to leaving Iraq, Enas discovered the art of glass painting. She immediately fell in love with this art form and began her artistic journey. Enas's passion for art and her adoration and patience with children inspired her to incorporate the two, and started a small business called Little Picasso Art Centre.

Enas was also commissioned by the chief of the Halifax Regional Police to create a work of art to be displayed in the entrance to the police department. She unveiled it to the public on February 22, 2016.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that this House of Assembly join me in applauding Enas for fulfilling her life goals and enriching our community.

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

DORRINGTON, JOCELYN: COM. REPRESENTATION - THANKS

HON. PAT DUNN « » : Mr. Speaker, on May 4, 2019, Jocelyn Dorrington made history when she became the first female African Nova Scotian elected to New Glasgow Town Council. Her father, Francis Dorrington, served as a Ward One councillor for 20 years.

Dorrington, a popular figure in her community, is a retired teacher and education administrator, and easily won a second term in office during the 2020 municipal elections. One of her primary goals is to inspire other young women in her community to become leaders. Diversity in leadership is extremely important, and Jocelyn will use her skills and experiences to make our community more inclusive.

I support her efforts to create a mindset where cultural differences are celebrated.

I ask that this Legislature take time today to thank Councillor Dorrington for her confident and compassionate representation of her community.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Waverly-Fall River-Beaverbank.

[Page 205]

MITCHELL, GERALD: DEATH OF - TRIBUTE

BILL HORNE « » : Mr. Speaker, it is with great, tremendous sadness when the Mitchell family lost devoted family member and community leader Gerald Mitchell. His diagnosis of brain cancer ignited his determination and fighting spirit that led him to an additional five and a half more years to enjoy his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, Gerald founded and operated the Gerald Mitchell Contracting for over 40 years, building over 2,000 homes in the Fall River and local communities. Gerald's company motto - Quality, Integrity, Trust - describes how he ran his successful and respected business and describes the man that Gerald's family and friends loved and respected.

Mr. Speaker, Gerald's legacy can be seen all over Fall River and the many homes he built. His community support and his family business will continue for many more years.

I ask all members of the Legislature to join me in offering condolences to his loving family and many friends.

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

STEVE CRAIG « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Alex Stapleton, of Lower Sackville. Alex was recognized [Inaudible]

THE SPEAKER « » : We seem to have lost the connection with the honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

The honourable member for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg.

LYNK, SONYA: DEDICATION FEMALE HOCKEY - COMMEND

BRIAN COMER « » : Mr. Speaker, I sit here today to commend Sonya Lynk of Sydney River, Cape Breton, who is the head coach and owner of the Cape Breton Lynx, a Maritime Major (U18) Female Hockey League.

Sonya is 36 years old, and she's been coaching the under-18s since 2015. She took over as the club's owner prior to the start of the season. She's also played at the university level herself and feels it's important for girls to have role models that look like them.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Sonya on her commitment and dedication to female hockey. I want to wish her all the best in the future.

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

[Page 206]

LEBLANC, FRED: SERV. TO COUNTRY - THANKS

HON. GORDON WILSON « » : Since 2006, with the gifts of quilts to those Canadian Forces injured in Afghanistan, over 16,000 of our military, past and present, have received their Quilt of Valour. One recipient, Fred LeBlanc of Church Point, received his quilt October 18^th.

In Clare, everyone knows Fred. In past years, he proudly marched with his fellow veterans in the Acadian Festival Parade. Fred had joined the Canadian Coast Guard in 1954 at the age of 17 and remained on the Forces for more than 29 years. While in the Forces, he was known as a tough warrant officer preparing new recruits for military life. By the end of their training, the former recruits considered him fair, sometimes funny, and a de facto member of their family. Fred also did a peacekeeping tour in Cyprus and spent two years in Germany.

In 1983, he retired from the Royal Canadian Regiment and returned home. Now 84 years old, he is humbled by the presentation of the quilt, and now another cherished memory that is related to his military career.

Today I want to recognize Fred LeBlanc and thank him and all the veterans for their years of service.

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

STEVE CRAIG « » : Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Alex Stapleton of Lower Sackville. Alex Stapleton was awarded the Provincial Volunteer Award for the Halifax Regional Municipality, which was presented virtually during the Celebrating Community Spirit and Volunteer Awards held September 28^th of last year.

On Alex's days off, you will find him volunteering at one of the groups he's involved with or spending time with younger kids helping them to explore their love of science. Although Alex's award had to be presented virtually [Inaudible]

THE SPEAKER « » : Almost. We'll try again at a later time.

The honourable member for Yarmouth.

The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

EASTERN FRONT THEATRE: RETURN TO DART. - WELCOME HOME

[Page 207]

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I want to welcome Eastern Front Theatre back home to Dartmouth. For 28 years, the company has been supporting the work of local writers, actors, and theatre makers to great fanfare. Founded by Dartmouth resident Mary Vingoe and showing the works of Dartmouth playwright Wendy Lill among others, Eastern Front has an impressive history of producing innovative works. They continue to push the boundaries of theatre as they delve into digital shows this season.

I look forward to discovering what Atlantic artist Kat McCormack and her team bring us. I am so thrilled that the award-winning company has returned to the Rotunda at Alderney Landing, and I'm even happier to say that so is the rest of Dartmouth.

Upon trying to purchase a ticket to tonight's opening night reading, I found it was already sold out. Welcome home to Eastern Front Theatre.

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

FRONTLINE WORKERS: DILIGENCE DURING COVID-19 - THANKS

ALANA PAON « » : Mr. Speaker, this year's tree for Boston, a 45-foot white spruce donated by Tony and Heather Sampson of West Bay, Richmond County, was dedicated to front-line health care workers. Heather is just one of thousands of frontline workers that I would like to thank for their continued service and sacrifices made during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Words cannot do justice to the gratitude that is owed to every frontline worker in this province who answered the call of duty. Frontline workers are the backbone to our success at keeping the virus at bay.

I send my heartfelt thanks to all frontline workers like Heather. May we honour their diligence, their labours, and their sacrifices to keep all Nova Scotians safe.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Yarmouth with 50 seconds.

I think we'll cut it off there. We'll table that one for later. Time allotted for members' statements has expired.

The House will now recess for 15 minutes.

[9:59 a.m. The House recessed.]

[10:15 a.m. The House reconvened.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please.

[Page 208]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS TO MINISTERS

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

PREM.: COVID-19 - VACCINATION RATE

TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, yesterday I asked the Premier some simple, important questions. I asked: Why are we the province with the lowest vaccination rates? Why are we the province that has delivered the lowest percentage of doses received? I asked: Why are we trailing the country in pretty much every category around vaccines?

The answer I received from the Premier was that it was okay because we were among the leaders in people fully vaccinated. I found that a little strange, so I went and checked. I have the numbers here and the numbers say just the opposite. Nova Scotia has fully vaccinated 1,571 people per 100,000 - that's eighth out of 10 provinces, not in the lead at all.

My question for the Premier is: Why would the Premier say we are leading in numbers of people fully vaccinated when, in fact, the numbers do not add up?

HON. IAIN RANKIN (The Premier): Mr. Speaker, I want to thank those Nova Scotians who are working very hard every single day to get vaccines out. Our schedule is dependent on supply from the federal government. On Tuesday, we actually had a record amount of vaccines go out to Nova Scotians - 2,300.

Yes, our policy has shifted. We did hold back our second dosage and we are among the leaders in how we get out vaccines out.

TIM HOUSTON « » : The policy may have shifted but other provinces shifted their policies too. It is interesting to see the Premier doubling down that we are leaders. Yesterday, he said the same thing, but at least the numbers don't lie - 1,571 per 100,000. The top province? P.E.I. It has 3,452 per 100,000. That is double what we've done here in Nova Scotia. They had the exact same strategy, Mr. Speaker. Saskatchewan, 2,386; Manitoba, 2,255; Alberta, 2,063.

I could go on. The Premier should not politicize our vaccination numbers. Nova Scotians just want to know the facts. They just want to know where we stand.

My question to the Premier is: Can the Premier explain why he continues to say one thing while the numbers show another?

THE PREMIER » : The best way we are going to manage this pandemic is continuing to work alongside Public Health and Dr. Strang. I didn't say anything that Dr. Strang didn't say, Mr. Speaker. He is the one who actually said that we were among the leading group in how we were vaccinating people and those who are having the second doses. Actually, out of all the doses that we have administered, one-third of those went to those getting their second dose.

[Page 209]

It's very important that we prioritize our long-term care facilities and then we prioritize those who are aged, because of the mortality susceptibility to having the virus hitting those who are most aged, Mr. Speaker. We are going to continue to work alongside Dr. Strang and Public Health and continue to take their advice so that we can continue to lead the country.

TIM HOUSTON « » : Mr. Speaker, people are anxious. They just want the facts. They just want to know when they are going to get their vaccination. It is not completely fair of the Premier to try to hide behind Dr. Strang and say, well, Dr. Strang said that, so I said it too. This is too important for that.

The numbers are the numbers. The Premier said we are leaders and we are not. He can attribute that comment to somebody else, but the Premier has said it a number of times himself.

Maybe he hoped nobody would look. This is a government that has gone an entire year without being challenged on the numbers. This is a government that has gone an entire year with people just accepting their statements as research.

Today we see why it is important that governments be held to account and be made to support their statements.

I would like to ask the Premier just one more time: Does he still stand by his statement that we are leading the country when, in fact, the numbers clearly show something different?

THE SPEAKER « » : I would just like to remind the honourable member that saying that the government is hiding something is unparliamentary.

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, the member opposite is the only one I have heard from who does not think that we are leading the way in how we manage the pandemic.

I want to thank those hard-working Nova Scotians, health care heroes across the province, who continue to work hard and that continue to work alongside our government that continues to put evidence-based solutions forward, Mr. Speaker. We were one of the first provinces to actually adopt masks; we are actually testing higher; we are testing asymptomatic people; and we are going to continue to look at evidence-based solutions and continue to work alongside Public Health and not politicize COVID-19.

[Page 210]

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

PREM.: MENTAL HEALTH - SERVICES

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the Premier some questions about mental health.

The World Health Organization has urged and recommended that governments spend 10 per cent of the global health budget on mental health and addictions in order to provide the services in mental health that a contemporary population needs. And yet in Nova Scotia, we are a long way short of that at six per cent, and we're also short of the Canadian average at seven per cent.

I want to ask the Premier « » : Does he agree that we should be at least meeting, if not exceeding, these important national and international benchmarks for the provision of services in mental health?

THE PREMIER « » : We've made clear that mental health and addictions will be a priority for our government moving forward. We do have services out into communities. Like other jurisdictions, we are struggling to find and to recruit psychiatrists and psychologists to our communities, but we're going to continue to do our best.

We have a dedicated office now - the Office of Workplace Mental Health - within the Department of Health and Wellness, and we have dedicated resources. We'll be hiring an expert in this field to help us, and actually, even before that, we're going to increase our supports in this budget.

GARY BURRILL « » : The Nova Scotia College of Social Workers has recently pointed to the sharpness of the need in a report that explains that in Nova Scotia, since the pandemic, people are experiencing higher levels of anxiety than people anywhere else in Canada. I'll table the part of the report that gives these numbers, but just to synopsize, 27 per cent of the people in our province describe their anxiety level as high - that's a 20 per cent jump from before the pandemic - and 16 per cent of people in Nova Scotia report high levels of depression since the pandemic, and that's more than double the pre-pandemic number. Yet today in Nova Scotia, we don't have any province-wide system for responding to mental health emergencies.

So will the Premier let this House know what actual, concrete, real program improvements his government is going to be bringing forward that are going to make sure, particularly in this heightened time, that everybody has got access to the mental health programming they need?

THE PREMIER « » : This pandemic has had impacts on families across this province and our country. I am concerned for Nova Scotians who face those invisible injuries, and addictions are on the rise. That's why we'll be putting dedicated resources to fight this, and we're also looking at how we can bolster community supports. We do have the toll-free line that Nova Scotians can call if there is a crisis, and that is available 24/7.

[Page 211]

But yes, we will be putting more attention to this. A fair government would.

GARY BURRILL « » : If a person in Nova Scotia today is dealing with a real burden of anxiety or depression, such that they need to see a mental health clinician promptly, the only way that they're able to accomplish that, if they haven't got benefits or insurance or the private means to pay out the often $200 or so per hour that private psychological services charge - the only way that they can do that if they don't have those means, those resources, is to turn to the public system. Often in our community mental health system, the wait times are measured in weeks and months.

Will the Premier admit that there is, in fact, a two-tiered mental health system in operation today in Nova Scotia?

THE PREMIER « » : That's why we have invested $9.5 million into grant programs for communities to ensure that there are opportunities for Nova Scotians to seek the help that they need. We do have the crisis line, Mr. Speaker, and those Nova Scotians who need help immediately are triaged to get that immediate help that they need.

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

PREM: COVID-19 - POLICE VACCINATION

TIM HOUSTON « » : I want to revisit another topic from yesterday, and that's the question around when our police officers can expect to be vaccinated. I'm hearing from a lot of police officers who are just interested in what's happening.

This morning I printed off this graphic from the Province's vaccine website. It clearly shows who's in what phases. What it doesn't show is police officers anywhere on this graphic. Yesterday in the House, the Premier said that they would now be prioritizing police officers, but they're not in this graphic. These inconsistencies cause a lot of anxiety for Nova Scotians.

My question for the Premier « » : Will the police officers be prioritized in the vaccination schedule or not?

THE PREMIER « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the member knows very well, day to day things change in how we manage the COVID‑19 pandemic. We adapt. We have meetings with very important stakeholders, like those police officers who are working on the front lines.

[Page 212]

During the last briefing, Dr. Strang did inform the public that he would be meeting with the Police Association of Nova Scotia and, subsequent to that meeting, he did agree to put - Dr. Strang made this decision so that police officers, those who are working on the front line, would be involved in Phase 2.

TIM HOUSTON « » : Actually, the comments that we have seen publicly, at least Dr. Strang's, could not have been more clear, and when asked why they wouldn't be prioritized he said, if you look across the country, we are not seeing frontline police officers being a group that jumps out as having excessive amounts of COVID‑19. I am just saying what Dr. Strang has said publicly, Mr. Speaker.

I do believe that police officers should be prioritized, and I would be hopeful that the government would do it, but I just want some clarification. On the one hand, you have some strong comments from Public Health, who are adamant that they shouldn't be prioritized. On the other hand, you have the political arm saying that they should be prioritized. I just want to make sure with the Premier that the actual message to the police officers today is that they will be prioritized.

THE PREMIER « » : At the last briefing, Dr. Strang was very clear that he was going to meet with the Police Association and after he had that meeting, he had the comfort to put the police officers - only those who are working on the front line, not the ones in offices, but those that are engaged in frontline work - that they would be added as an essential worker group during the Phase 2 vaccination plan.

H&W: FITCH REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS - IMPLEMENTATION

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

COLTON LEBLANC « » : We know now from the recently released Fitch report on EHS services in our province that the government was aware of issues with the use of advanced life support (ALS) ambulances. In fact, the report states that, "The use of ALS ambulances is placing unnecessary stress on the system as in-hospital patients compete for the scarce resources in the field." This report was completed in October of 2019, before negotiations started in December of 2020, yet the government did nothing.

I would like to ask the Minister of Health and Wellness: How can the government justify sitting on this information for 14 months, that only his department could act on, and not taking actions that would have saved lives?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : In fact, Mr. Speaker, that is not accurate at all. We have been implementing the recommendations of the Fitch report. As I mentioned yesterday, 45 of the 68 have already been implemented. That includes enhancing our resources for air ambulance, also bringing in the non‑ambulatory transport vans. Also, a number of those recommendations were implemented in the actual contract with Emergency Medical Care Inc., as well.

[Page 213]

The fact remains that this report has been very useful for government. It created a great diagnostic to improve our Emergency Health Services system and to refocus it on patient outcomes, and actions have already been taken. Again, 45 out of the 68 recommendations have already been implemented.

COLTON LEBLANC « » : So if that many recommendations have been implemented, why is the system still in shambles? It's falling apart. Paramedics have been telling this to us and the governing Parties for years, Mr. Speaker.

With regard to the drive times, the Fitch report also states that the government was told that the current performance can be achieved with significantly fewer resources than currently scheduled on the road. This means that reinvestment in other program areas can occur from the reallocation of dollars.

We asked for the Fitch report so we could work towards life‑saving solutions for the challenges that have been expressed to us by paramedics for years. Things could have been done before the announcement, despite what the minister is saying.

So again, I would like to ask the Minister of Health and Wellness: Is the inaction of this government, since the report getting into his hands, completely justified by negotiations?

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : In fact, I disagree with the member. If the member reads the Fitch report, what the Fitch report indicated is that we have one of the most sophisticated, data-rich, world-class systems in North America for EHS systems. That does save lives.

Yes, it is a difficult job. Yes, there are challenges in the system. And yes, there are some system‑based issues that we have to address that are creating obstacles for service delivery, but the fact remains, and these world experts have indicated it, that we have one of the best systems in North America. To say this system is in shambles is wrong. Our paramedics are saving lives, they're responding to crises, and they are doing a fantastic job, especially given the difficult circumstances that they're currently working under.

I look forward to working with our paramedics to further improve the system to save more lives in Nova Scotia.

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

[10:30 a.m.]

[Page 214]

H&W - FITCH RPT: GOVT. ATT. - DETAILS

COLTON LEBLANC « » : If the minister is so proud of a data-driven system, why hasn't any data been made public to Nova Scotians since 2012? The last annual report on EHS, which clearly communicates to Nova Scotians the realities of the system, whether it be volume or whatnot, hasn't existed since this government has taken power.

In December 2019, the government announced an investment of $2.7 million to buy new power structures in power-load systems for 62 ambulances. I don't think there's a person knowledgeable about emergency care that would be against an investment that would better serve Nova Scotians and make work safer for paramedics. However, it is worth noting that this was mentioned in the Fitch report and it was not enacted by government.

My question for the Minister of Health and Wellness is: How did this recommendation get to the government's early attention while so many others did not?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Again, 45 of the 68 recommendations have already been moved on. Furthermore, 16 of the recommendations from Fitch are partially implemented right now, so we have been taking swift action on this report.

This report informed our negotiations and the contract with EMC. I've met with paramedics this week who are excited about some of the recommendations in Fitch and are eager to work with our government to ensure that they're implemented, particularly around the challenge of off-load times. This seems to be one of the most significant challenges.

We're developing a holistic plan with the Nova Scotia Health Authority to further improve our off-loading times and take some pressure out of our emergency departments to help improve response times and patient outcome.

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

PREM. - ESSENTIAL WORKERS: BONUS EXCLUSION - EXPLAIN

KENDRA COOMBES « » : My question is to the Premier. In May 2020, the government announced that health care workers in the province would receive a bonus of $2,000 through the Essential Health Care Worker Program. Our offices heard from many frontline workers, frustrated that the government had excluded them from the benefit - some continuing care assistants, staff at the Ally Centre of Cape Breton in Sydney, and workers serving persons with disabilities.

Nova Scotia could have accessed more than $6 million in additional federal funds to raise wages for low-paid essential workers but didn't. My question: Will the Premier explain why so many essential frontline care workers were left out by this government?

[Page 215]

THE PREMIER « » : I want to thank all those health care workers and all essential service workers across the province who continue to step up to ensure that Nova Scotia did so well as we managed the pandemic, as we continue to keep people safe. I want to thank the federal government for stepping up to provide those types of resources and types of remuneration packages for those workers.

KENDRA COOMBES « » : Two workers at Freedom Foundation transition house moved into the house, isolated from their families, and worked 12-hour shifts for 67 days in a row in order to keep the house open. The frontline essential workers did not receive overtime pay and were not eligible for the essential workers benefit. When these workers asked the government for help, they were told to ask their employer. Their employer, a not-for-profit board, were told that they did not qualify because they are funded by the wrong government department.

Can the Premier explain why this multi-million dollar program does not have an open and transparent appeals process?

THE PREMIER « » : Again, I want to thank all those workers, whether in the health care field or in the non-profit sector, those who are working really hard on the front lines of those businesses that remained open through the duration of the pandemic, and I want to thank the federal government for stepping up to allow for some grant funding to go out. We continue to work on grant funding that went out to communities, whether it's individual Nova Scotians, businesses, the restaurant sector.

Just today we announced a package that went out to hotels and those operations that are involved in our tourism sector, a 50 per cent property tax rebate. We're going to continue that we have grant programs to help ease the burden on Nova Scotians.

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

H&W: DOCTOR SHORTAGE - EXPLAIN

KARLA MACFARLANE « » : Mr. Speaker, yesterday I asked the Minister of Health and Wellness about the ever-increasing Nova Scotia family doctor wait-list. If we recall, in 2013, the member for Kings West guaranteed, and I quote: a Liberal government won't have 60,000 patients without a doctor. That is being tabled right now in the Chamber.

Well, we've gotten a Liberal government and we've gotten more than 60,000 patients without a family doctor. The minister says that that number's climbing because so many new Nova Scotians are settling in our province.

My question for the Minister of Health and Wellness is: Why aren't there doctors among the many people who are moving to Nova Scotia?

[Page 216]

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : If the member looks at the patient attachment data over the years, she will see that there has been a decrease in unattached patients in Nova Scotia until this past year when COVID-19 hit us. We've attached over 180,000 patients to doctors.

We've done that through training more doctors than have ever been trained in Nova Scotia before. Recruiting in the last number of years has brought in about 550 doctors by having the most competitive compensation in Atlantic Canada for family doctors and certain specialties like anesthetists. This has helped us bring that number down.

We have been hit with two factors that have impacted us this year, which I mentioned yesterday: international doctor recruitment being impacted by COVID-19, and people moving to new communities in Nova Scotia.

KARLA MACFARLANE « » : I disagree with the minister completely. One hundred and eighty thousand people attached to doctors; that's incorrect. Perhaps he's thinking of nurse practitioners, too, but not just doctors. I would ask him to correct on that.

Going forward, it's true that COVID-19 has changed the way we do business. We've all had to adjust. Government, teachers, businesses - everyone has had to go virtual. Our essential workers, including our dedicated doctors and health professionals, have certainly found a way to deliver the services to their fellow Nova Scotians. I know this government has had a difficult time putting the words "virtual" and "medicine" together. Now is absolutely the time.

My question is: Why couldn't provincial physician recruiters do what we've all been doing and use technology to bring physicians to Nova Scotia?

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : As the member mentioned, we have also increased our complement of nurse practitioners, who provide high-value primary care to patients that they're serving. Yes, we have enhanced the role of nurse practitioners and expanded their scope of practice, along with other frontline health care providers, like pharmacists. We're also looking at enhancing the scope of practice for registered nurses in Nova Scotia, too.

We are also enhancing our virtual care network. We've invested money in that. We've partnered with the federal government to bring forward a virtual care strategy. Again, when it comes to primary care, virtual care is best used as an enhancement tool, not a replacement for that primary care access point with a real health care practitioner.

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

PREM.: COVID-19 SCREENING - HFX. AIRPORT

[Page 217]

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : Boy, I would love to make comments on that back-and-forth. Instead, Mr. Speaker, I have a question for the Premier.

Many steps have been taken to protect Nova Scotians during the COVID-19 pandemic. Testing travellers arriving at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport, however, was not one of those protective steps. Travellers can be arriving here in Nova Scotia from anywhere. Almost by definition, if you're flying into Nova Scotia, you're coming in from a jurisdiction that has exponentially more COVID-19 than here.

Our PC Party has been asking repeatedly for rapid testing to take place at the airport. Instead, we continue to hear exposure alert after exposure alert for incoming flights.

My question to the Premier is: When so many of the COVID-19 cases here in Nova Scotia have been traced to out-of-province travel and people from outside of the Atlantic Canada region, why is there not testing at the Halifax international airport?

THE PREMIER « » : Nova Scotia has ramped up their testing across the province. It is a constant conversation with Dr. Strang and the airports to look at models that could be proposed, but we do have the 14-day quarantine in the province. That's the policy that has kept us safe over the time.

If those that are tested at the airport - if they did get a test and then they travelled in, they would still have to quarantine. That's the main policy at this point in time, and it's going to continue to be until we have more vaccines out into the population and we have that population immunity.

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : The vaccines are only for us here in Nova Scotia. We're not giving vaccines to people travelling in from outside Atlantic Canada.

As members know, we have incredibly close family, economic, and health care ties to people on both sides of the Nova Scotia-New Brunswick border. In fact, there are many families that share child custody arrangements that require their children to split their time between one parent in Nova Scotia, a low-COVID-rate jurisdiction, and New Brunswick, another low-COVID-rate jurisdiction.

Unlike travellers who arrive in Nova Scotia without being tested, our children here are being tested up to three times per visit just to fulfill the custody arrangements that are dictated by this government, despite the fact that Nova Scotia and New Brunswick are the only two provinces with fewer than five cases per 100,000 people. I have some families that are choosing not to place their children through this rigorous testing and therefore not able to see both parents, who literally sometimes live minutes away but on the other side of the border.

THE SPEAKER « » : Does the member have a question?

[Page 218]

ELIZABETH SMITH-MCCROSSIN « » : My question, Mr. Speaker, is to the Premier. Why does the Premier believe children travelling across the Nova Scotia-New Brunswick border pose a bigger COVID risk than travellers coming into our province from literally anywhere else in the world?

THE PREMIER « » : Restrictions that are put in place by Public Health aren't always easy. They do impact the day-to-day lives of many Nova Scotians, but as long as we continue to work alongside Public Health, and as long as we continue to meet with stakeholders and listen to the concerns raised in their everyday lives, we're going to continue to do well.

We have had conversations. I've already reached out proactively to my neighbouring colleagues in both New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island to have that discussion about what a Maritime bubble would look like, or an Atlantic bubble eventually. That's what we need to continue to do, but we won't open up the borders or avoid the 14-day isolation until Public Health is comfortable.

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

H&W: COVID-19 VACCINES - ACCESSIBILITY

KEITH BAIN « » : I appreciate the Minister of Health and Wellness answering my question yesterday about access to vaccines for seniors living in the North of Smokey area. The Minister of Health and Wellness mentioned that he has a comprehensive plan to ensure that no community is more than 45 minutes away from a health care provider able to administer these vaccines, remembering that I said that the travel is in the vicinity of three hours one way for these people North of Smokey.

As has been pointed out many times, age is the single biggest factor in the COVID-19 mortality, so it's urgent that these seniors receive the vaccine as quickly as possible and we see the federal government prioritize jurisdictions with remote populations.

So my question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is: What are the details of his comprehensive plan to get these seniors the vaccine at an accessible location, and will they be given priority access, even if the appointments are available for a broader age range?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : I do know that Dr. Strang and staff from Public Health have provided vaccine presentations to all three caucuses at this point, providing information on this rollout. Nova Scotia and P.E.I. were the two first provinces to actually have community clinics in pharmacies and in doctors' offices, so we'll be leaning on our partners through the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia and through Doctors Nova Scotia as supply ramps up in Nova Scotia on vaccines to create more access points in communities across this province. That's contingent on supply ramping up from the federal government, but we do have a plan in place working with our partners to create more access points for folks across the province.

[Page 219]

KEITH BAIN « » : At last count, there were 119 residents over 80 in the North of Smokey area, not including those that are in the guest home. The only thing the region needs now is a supply of the vaccine, as our local health care providers are standing by and ready to administer doses to the population. In fact, five doctors in the area have already contacted Public Health to offer to vaccinate these residents.

[10:45 a.m.]

Again, my question to the minister is: Will this department take these doctors up on their offer and provide the vaccines to these 119 residents?

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Of course, Mr. Speaker. We are currently working with doctors and pharmacists. They came together very quickly to create 26 clinics across the province to deliver the AstraZeneca vaccine. AstraZeneca cannot be given to folks over the age of 65. The other two other vaccines that we have on hand right now - Pfizer and Moderna - do require low temperatures to hold them and that is why the Cape Breton Regional Hospital is the location where those vaccines are held.

Again, as supply amps up, as more vaccines come online, there are going to be more access points for people across this province. I think we do have a very robust plan that is going to ensure that we are leading the way in our race for herd immunity and focusing on those seniors who are the most vulnerable and working our way down the age brackets.

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

PREM.: CLEAR-CUTTING - MORATORIUM

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. Since October of last year, our caucus has been calling on the government to impose a temporary moratorium on all forms of clear-cutting on Crown land. This same call was made by members of the government's own Forest Biodiversity Science Advisory Committee. The committee members wrote: "The premier, minister and Department of Lands and Forestry did not accept the Lahey review with the caveat that the remaining Crown forests be liquidated before its recommendations were implemented."

Mr. Speaker, my question to the Premier is: Will he commit to imposing a moratorium on clear-cutting on Crown land until the Lahey review recommendations are substantially implemented?

THE PREMIER; Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the industry groups and the environmental NGOs that have been working with the Department of Lands and Forestry to roll out the recommendations of the Lahey report. Those recommendations, 45 of them, will be implemented this year.

[Page 220]

We continue to do that important work. In this legislative session, there are two key foundational parts that are going to be legislated, with both the Crown Lands Act and the Biodiversity Act. Those are the foundations required and we're going to continue to do that important work so that we have healthier forests for generations to come and that we have a thriving forestry industry here in Nova Scotia.

LISA ROBERTS « » : Mr. Speaker, we know that WestFor Management Inc., the consortium that manages harvesting on Crown lands in southwestern Nova Scotia, has five years' worth of harvest already approved, so when the new Forest Management Guide is implemented, it could be another half-decade before we see actual change on the ground.

My question to the Premier is: Will he commit to reviewing all approved harvests under the new Forest Management Guide?

THE PREMIER « » : Mr. Speaker, that committee that I referenced, the Forest Biodiversity Science Advisory Committee, is a very important one that works alongside the department to ensure that all factors are considered as the implementation goes through, how they're cadenced. We're going to continue to work alongside those groups to make sure that we get this rollout right.

Previous to our government, when clear-cuts were taking place across the province, less than five per cent of trees were left on the ground. Now, with the interim guidelines while we wait for the advancement of that report, anywhere between 10 per cent and upwards of 30 per cent of the most valued trees, the long-lived, shade-tolerant trees, are being left on the ground.

We have made progress, we're going to continue to make progress, and I look forward to that report being implemented.

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

CCH: RECREATION FACILITY INVESTMENT - SUFFICIENT

DAVE RITCEY « » : Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage, responsible for recreation in the province.

According to Dr. Strang, in the November 2019 discussion paper Cultural and Recreational Infrastructure in Nova Scotia: Future Investments and Governance prepared by Dalhousie University's MacEachen Institute for Public Policy & Governance: "Nova Scotians are experiencing a decline in physical activity, an increase in obesity and chronic illness and risks associated with social alienation, which improved culture and recreation infrastructure could help to address."

[Page 221]

The same report quotes Ronald Colman's suggestion that "Medical care costs for people with chronic disease account for 60 per cent ($1.24 billion) of the total medical care expenditures in Nova Scotia annually."

My question to the minister is: Does the minister believe that the province is investing sufficiently in recreation facilities, given the clear benefits from recreational activities?

HON. SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : I'm not very familiar with this report, but you gave quite a concise wrap-up of it. I would like to say that of course we think that we are trying our best to put money out to recreation facilities. We have quite a number that are in the lineup for review. We constantly have staff reviewing those files, and we will continue to do so.

DAVE RITCEY « » : In my mind, investment in recreation saves money in health costs - a preventative measure. The Truro Amateur Athletic Club, also known as the TAAC Grounds, currently located in Truro, includes a quarter-mile, five-lane running and walking track; field event facilities; football field; baseball field; and playground for kids.

When the decision was made to build a playing facility capable of accommodating all sports activities while encouraging and promotion healthier lifestyles for community members, a group of dedicated volunteers created the TAAC Ground Revitalization Project and set out to build a premier sports facility in the hub of Nova Scotia.

Today the TAAC requires significant upgrades after 130 years of being very well used and requires about $2 million in contribution from the province to push this community project forward. Investment in recreation facilities today improves our health and well-being for years to come.

Will the minister please explain why the department has not been able to fund this community project in any of the last four fiscal years?

SUZANNE LOHNES-CROFT « » : I have only been the minister since October, so I cannot speak to the last four years. I do know that this has been a file that I have been kept up to date on, and we will remain committed to working with the stakeholders. As you know, I visited you in Truro, and I did go on site. I have met with your group, and we will continue to be committed to your stakeholders.

THE SPEAKER « » : I would just like to remind the honourable member for Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River to please table to document that you referred to in your question.

[Page 222]

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

H&W: MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS - INADEQUATE

BARBARA ADAMS « » : Mr. Speaker, as you know, the Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage constituency is the only one with Nova Scotia without a family doctor. Despite some constituencies having more than one, my constituency also has no collaborative health centre. We have no access to mental health services in my community either.

Last year, the Minister of Health and Wellness said that his government had no plans to provide a collaborative health centre in my community despite my calling for one on a monthly basis since getting elected. Last year, over 1,200 constituents signed a petition calling for a collaborative health centre in our community.

My question for the Minister of Health and Wellness is: Can the minister tell my constituents why his government continues to believe that it's okay for my constituents to be the only ones without a physician or a collaborative health centre?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : In fact, I don't buy that premise. The member's constituency is in HRM. HRM has probably the highest volume of doctors. We have collaborative clinics here. Members of her constituency have access to health care services that don't even exist in other parts of this province. I'm sorry, but I just can't buy the premise of that question.

BARBARA ADAMS « » : I will certainly relay that information on to my constituents, because we are the only constituency in Nova Scotia without a single family doctor. In fact, the mental health services that they did have access to in downtown Dartmouth are now being moved, and they're even less accessible than they were. So, whether the Minister of Health and Wellness wants to accept it or not, my constituents know that it's a problem.

I'll move on. We know from the January 2020 Framework for Nova Scotia on preventing and reducing the risk of suicide that the number of people who attempt to take their own life in Nova Scotia is an astronomical 7.5 people per day, and I'll table that document.

My community of Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage has a disproportionately high number of deaths due to suicide, especially over the past two years prior to the stresses of COVID-19. The last time there was a survey looking into the mental health and addictions status of Nova Scotia youth was last done by the government in 2011. This government has not done that.

My question to the Minister of Health and Wellness is: With statistics like this, will the minister admit that my community has gone too long without adequate mental health supports right in our community?

[Page 223]

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : In terms of - just to get back to the patient attachment information for the member - I think there's 35,000 people that live in that area. There are about 500 that aren't attached to a family doctor. Obviously, we don't want to see a number even at that level, but percentage-wise we are doing very well in Eastern Passage for family doctor attachment.

In terms of the mental health facilities that have been amalgamated in Dartmouth - again, this was a clinical decision. The clinicians decided three separate addictions and mental health institutions to move together into one facility. I'm told they believe that will enhance access - it's next to a Halifax Transit hub - and it will allow them to provide a more collaborative practice that includes addictions and mental health support.

The clinicians believe - based on what I've been told - that that move not only is a more accessible building, it's a more accessible location for a broader group of patients in Dartmouth. Again, that was a clinical decision that was made.

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

L&F: LAHEY REPORT - IMPLEMENTATION

HUGH MACKAY « » : Nova Scotians widely approve of the recommendation of the Independent Review of Forest Practices in Nova Scotia, commonly referred to as the Lahey report. These recommendations intend to balance environmental, social, and economic objectives and values through the inclusive triad approach toward ecological forestry.

My question through you, Mr. Speaker, is to the Minister of Lands and Forestry. When does the government intend to inform Nova Scotians of the planned schedule for implementing the recommendations of the Lahey report?

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : As he would certainly be aware, yesterday we just put in part one, if you will. We implemented a couple of bills that will absolutely affect how we begin processing the recommendations of the Lahey report. That will be a part of it. We will continue to work with Mr. Lahey and others as well, and the industry and other stakeholders.

As far as a timeframe goes, I can't give you an exact time frame on that, but we are moving on this already. I think that is a good sign that we're doing that, and as we move forward we will certainly be keeping members, as well as everyone in the province, up to speed on the progress that we're making as we make our way into what will become Lahey recommendations.

HUGH MACKAY « » : I'd like to thank the minister for the answer. We look forward to further news on that.

[Page 224]

Nova Scotians have expressed their concerns regarding the volume of the industrial clear-cutting on Crown land. Following the implementation of the Lahey report recommendations, what does the minister expect the impact to be on clear-cutting on Crown land?

CHUCK PORTER « » : We've already seen a change in the last couple of years with reports that have been done and the interim measures that have been put in place. A silviculture study report also has just completed consultations. We've seen retention levels already changed in how clear-cuts have been done.

The Lahey report certainly was referenced in the triad mentioned earlier by the member. It's just an example of how clear-cuts will be changed. Better focus, better forest management. We will continue to see efforts put forward through that report.

[11:00 a.m.]

It is important to note the priorities of this government. We introduced the Crown Lands Act yesterday - we will talk more about that. We have introduced the Biodiversity Act - we will talk more about that. Through those discussions and through Law Amendments, we will hear a lot more about how. So, people will begin to learn how this will complement what Professor Lahey has put forward in his report and what government intends to do.

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

H&W: DIALYSIS WAIT-LIST - UPDATE

HON. PAT DUNN « » : My question is for the Minister of Health and Wellness.

Lack of local access to dialysis treatment is destroying the quality of life for many residents of Pictou County. For the 48,000 residents of Pictou County, there are only four dialysis chairs at the satellite clinic in the Pictou Hospital. While the staff at the clinic do excellent work treating patients, wait-lists in Pictou County are growing.

For those unable to receive treatment locally, this means having to travel three days a week to sit in a chair for approximately five hours, in addition to needing someone to drive them to and from their appointment.

My question to the minister: Can the minister tell the House how many residents of Pictou County are currently on the wait-list for dialysis treatment?

HON. ZACH CHURCHILL « » : Of course, we do hear frustrations with access to dialysis. I am happy to look into this information for the member and provide him with the specifics on that, and to chat with our clinicians on the status and the clinical view on the dialysis support that is available in the member's community.

[Page 225]

PAT DUNN « » : The Liberal government has failed the residents of Pictou County by ignoring the community during their last roll-out of proposed chairs at different sites across the province.

For example, one of my constituents, a senior, for the past many months has had to travel to Halifax with his wife on Tuesday of each week and stay at The Lodge that Gives until Sunday to accommodate his needs. This is in addition to a number of other health issues that impact his life, including a permanent colostomy causing great difficulty sitting for long periods of time.

My question to the minister: Understandably, this has impacted every aspect of the couple's lives. Will the minister commit to improving the quality of life for dialysis patients by increasing the number of seats in Pictou County?

ZACH CHURCHILL « » : As I mentioned, I am happy to look into this issue to understand the specifics of the local pressures on that system and evaluate with our clinical experts here in the department on what, if anything, is further needed in that community.

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

HUGH MACKAY « » : Mr. Speaker, Highway No. 12 connects the communities of Chester and Kentville as it passes across the great spine of Nova Scotia. It passes through several rural villages, one of which is the vibrant community of New Ross.

The roadway, as it passes between the local New Ross Consolidated or Community School and what is commonly referred to as "the crossroads," comes down a very steep pitch in the road. It has tremendous fall-off on either side of the roadway - one side actually goes into the adjacent river. The guardrail in that area has deteriorated significantly. In fact most of the railing is gone, causing quite a concern for the residents given that the roadway takes such a sharp decline . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Does the member have a question?

HUGH MACKAY « » : My question to the Minister of Transportation and Active Transit is: In December the department said that they would prioritize the replacement of the rail, and I would just ask the minister could he look into an update on that and perhaps get back to me?

HON. LLOYD HINES « » : That particular route is of significant importance to us for the very reasons that the member . . .

[Page 226]

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

I'll just take this opportunity before we go into our next recess to remind all the members, the ones in the Chamber and the ones appearing virtually - in particular, the ones appearing virtually - that we're relying on you to self-police the length of your questions by monitoring the 45-second clock that appears on your screen. I appreciate your co-operation on that matter.

The House will now recess for 15 minutes.

[11:05 a.m. The House recessed.]

[11:20 a.m. The House reconvened.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. We'll now move on to Government Business.

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. 1, the Police Identity Management Act.

Bill No. 1 - Police Identity Management Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Minister of Justice.

Is the honourable Minister of Justice with us? Your mute is not showing.

I do apologize. We're having a technical issue here. We'll just be patient while we work this out.

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, can you hear me now?

[Page 227]

THE SPEAKER « » : We can indeed. I think we have that technical glitch worked out. We'll go to the honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : I apologize for that. I move that Bill No. 1, An Act Respecting the Management of Police Identity to Prevent Unlawful Activity, be now read a second time.

In April of last year, Nova Scotia endured a tragedy that few could comprehend. Those were two of our province's darkest days, and to this day, our hearts remain heavy from the pain and loss. We all have questions about how this happened, especially the families of those whose lives were taken prematurely, and the survivors. We hope that the facts and answers discovered by the public inquiry commissioners will provide the families and communities with some closure and help prevent similar tragic events in the future.

This independent public inquiry will play a critical role in the ongoing response to establish the facts and circumstances around these events. Parallel to this work there are things we can do to help prevent the recurrence of a similar tragedy. That is the premise of this bill. While impersonating a police officer has always been a criminal offence, the legislation we are speaking to today will further restrict someone from being able to access items that would facilitate impersonation, items like uniforms, badges, marked police vehicles, and police vehicle markings.

The Police Identity Management Act includes a mandatory requirement for all police vehicles to be properly decommissioned prior to sale, with removal of all equipment, decals, and other markings. This legislation will also restrict possession of police vehicle decals and police vehicle equipment to specified individuals and circumstances.

Police agencies in the province will also be required to have asset management and disposal policies in place for police-issued items and vehicles. This legislation will restrict the use, sale, reproduction, and possession of currently issued police articles, uniforms, and vehicle markings to authorized persons only. Limiting interactions and dealing with these items will further limit potential risk and improve public safety.

There is a long-standing tradition by some police agencies to allow retired officers to retain specific items, including ceremonial uniforms, in recognition of their service. This bill will ensure that any such practices are supported by comprehensive policies, reduce the risk of unauthorized persons being able to use them to misrepresent themselves as a police officer.

The policies will include a process for issuing and tracking items and making items retained by retired officers unserviceable. These policies must also include a process for individual Nova Scotians to forfeit or to permanently have altered any currently used police-issued item they own from any force in Canada. We know that some agencies are already taking steps, including the RCMP in the province, which recently destroyed over six tons of surplus kit and clothing. The measures proposed in this bill will re-establish confidence in the uniforms, tools, and symbols that identify police officers in our province.

[Page 228]

I appreciate that there is no way to entirely eliminate all risk, but I do believe that the restrictions that are being proposed in this bill will mitigate against the most significant risks. This is about decreasing the risk of someone with criminal intent from acquiring items that could be used to impersonate a police officer and thereby improving police safety of citizens in communities across the province. I believe that the measures proposed will achieve this.

Mr. Speaker, this legislation will be the first stand-alone, comprehensive piece of legislation in the country restricting the use, sale, reproduction, and possession of police articles. Adopting this legislation is the responsible thing to do. Our ultimate priority is to make our streets and communities safer, something I believe we can all stand behind.

[11:30 a.m.]

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I want to once again acknowledge the families and survivors who continue to grapple with the events of last April. Their pain and loss remain with me and with all Nova Scotians.

I'd also like to acknowledge the police for their ongoing work investigating these tragic events and the commissioners of the inquiry for their commitment to determining what happened and bringing forward recommendations to help prevent similar tragic events in the future.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I look forward to hearing from my colleagues as this bill moves through the legislative process.

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

KIM MASLAND « » : Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure to be able to speak to Bill No. 1, an Act Respecting the Management of Police Identity to Prevent Unlawful Activity.

I am very happy to see the introduction of this bill, as it contains measures that my colleagues and I in the PC caucus have been calling for - measures that Nova Scotians have been calling for - since the terrible, senseless tragedy in Portapique that shook Nova Scotians to our very cores last April. We lost 22 beautiful, innocent Nova Scotians, and we are forever heartbroken.

This bill is very similar to the bill our caucus had prepared, and if we could have introduced this legislation immediately instead of waiting 11 months, we certainly would have done so. Unfortunately, the government's decision to prevent MLAs from representing the views of their constituents in the Legislature for a year meant that we were unable to do so.

[Page 229]

The minister stated in the media release of this bill that we are taking steps to prevent such events from happening again, but let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, we are lucky that this delay did not result in more tragic incidents. I think about how, less than two months ago, a man was arrested in Antigonish for impersonating a police officer - which again involved the use of a vehicle that resembled those used by police.

I am relieved that we are finally here today and I am relieved to see this bill being the first introduced into this Legislature. While our caucus welcomes the legislation, we are a bit unclear and concerned about the amount of surplus equipment that may have been made available to the public in the meantime, and what efforts are ongoing to catalogue the items that may presently be in the possession of the public. I trust that the minister will be able to address this concern in his response.

While I have the floor, Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I did not take the time to acknowledge the grief and the trauma that were suffered by those who lost loved ones in the events of last April. Our hearts ache with you. These families demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience by publicly protesting the so-called review this government initially proposed, and they pushed for the independent inquiry to get the closure, the answers, and the justice that they deserve.

I am glad to hear the minister say that the inquiry will bring the much-needed answers. Frequently in my thoughts, I think about the portraits of these 22 beautiful, innocent faces. They will remain in my mind forever.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank the brave men and women who put on a uniform every day, willing to sacrifice their lives for us. The RCMP family lost one of their own, Cst. Heidi Stevenson, on April 19, 2020. They lost a hero, a cherished mom, a wife, daughter, friend, and colleague, and we all continue to share in the pain of their loss.

Before becoming an MLA, I had the opportunity to work with dedicated, brave RCMP officers at our Queens detachment, and of course you've all heard me talk about my son-in-law Adam, whom I am so deeply proud of, serving as an RCMP officer. But I can tell you, I carry the worry in my heart every day that he, and all of those who wear the uniform, will return home safely.

I have seen first-hand how these officers make a difference in the communities they serve, the sacrifices they make, and the risks they face; Nova Scotians should take pride in their efforts as they work to prevent and solve crime, enforce laws, and maintain relationships with our communities.

The idea of our officers responding to a call that involves searching for a suspect impersonating their colleagues with a fully‑functioning vehicle, is a horrific one. I am so glad to see that steps are finally being taken to ensure the circumstances that led to the tragedy in Portapique are not a repeat in the future.

[Page 230]

Mr. Speaker, I had a conversation with a retired RCMP officer after the tragic events in Portapique, and he shared with me his deep sadness and anger for what had happened and what had happened to a member of the RCMP family. He said he could not understand why someone like him, who had dedicated his entire career risking his life, hours of training, and sacrificing so much to protect the lives of those he served, how he could be driving his police car one week and the next week someone else off the street could be driving it because they bought it at an auction.

Mr. Speaker, I personally believe that police vehicles should not be resold to the public at all. They are equipped with police packages including a more powerful motor, different undercarriages such as stabilizer bars, bigger brakes, and handling packages. These cars in the hands of civilians can be dangerous to members who are trying to intercept these cars.

People believe that our police officers are a safe haven when they need protection, and they are. We teach our children at a young age how to be safe, that police officers serve and protect people, that you can ask a police officer for help, and, if in trouble, that police will stop bad things from happening. This bill will increase public confidence that when we seek out a police officer for help, it actually is a police officer.

It is my hope that these steps in this legislation will prevent such events as what we endured as a province in April - those dark days of April 18 and 19, 2020 - from ever happening again. We will always be Nova Scotia Together, and we will always be Nova Scotia Strong.

The Progressive Conservative caucus will be supporting this bill and I look forward to hearing from other members of the House and Nova Scotians in Law Amendments Committee.

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

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise and say a very few words about this bill. We do also look forward to hearing from Nova Scotians at Law Amendments. As my colleague from Queens-Shelburne pointed out, this is the first time, almost a year later, that we are able to discuss this tragedy in this House.

This bill makes sense. I would say it is a common-sense bill. Our caucus will be supporting it. But to the issue of public safety, I think there is so much more discussion to be had in tandem with the inquiry that will be taking place around the multi‑faceted ways in which the very notion of public safety failed on that night. One of them is the support we give to women who are facing domestic violence and the astonishing statistics around situations of domestic violence; how they spiral out of control and women are not believed.

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That is a huge part of this inquiry. It is one that we fought to have included. It is one that we are glad to see included. It doesn't form a part of this bill, but it absolutely forms a part of the conversation and we hope to see more legislative action and policy work forthcoming.

With those few remarks - I am looking forward to hearing from Nova Scotians in Law Amendments - I will take my seat.

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

BARBARA ADAMS « » : I am pleased to speak on Bill No. 1 - the Police Identity Management Act. To be honest, I am a bit overwhelmed to be speaking on this bill today. To be honest, very few times in a politician's life do you speak about an issue so personal to one's very community.

Our lives changed forever on April 18^th and 19^th, 2020, when 22 people lost their lives and three others were injured in the Portapique massacre. We lost Gina Goulet, Dawn Gulenchyn, Jolene Oliver, Frank Gulenchyn, Sean McLeod, Alanna Jenkins, John Zahl, Lisa McCully, Joey Webber, Heidi Stevenson, Heather O'Brien, Jamie Blair, Kristen Beaton, Lillian Campbell, Joanne Thomas, Peter Bond, Tom Bagley, Greg Blair, Emily Tuck, Joy Bond, Corrie Ellison, and Aaron Tuck. Your families and your friends miss you very much.

During the massacre, the RCMP officers in our communities did what they do every single day. They literally stood in the line of fire to save as many lives as possible. They did this freely and instinctively, without any hesitation. Very few Canadians have that kind of courage.

Our first responders deserve our admiration and we freely give it. Our first responders deserve our respect and support and we freely offer it. Our first responders deserve to be kept as safe as possible as we can keep them. This bill states that it was designed to protect Nova Scotians. We support these actions and will be supporting this bill.

I would have preferred that this government had not shut the Legislature down for a full year, so that this bill could have been enacted much sooner so that Nova Scotians could have been protected much sooner, but I'm glad that it is here now.

Our responders are some of the bravest Nova Scotians we know. They need our protection. They all need the confidence, 100 per cent of the time, that Nova Scotians will recognize them through their badges, their clothing, and their vehicles. Our first responders need complete confidence that they will be recognized, respected and, most importantly, trusted.

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Heidi Stevenson was a constituent of mine in the Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage community. She was a loving wife, an amazing mother of two children, and a 23-year veteran of the RCMP. She was always a dedicated service member who devoted her life to helping those around her.

She was one of the many RCMP officers who scrambled to make sense of the escalating tragedy over that two-day reign of terror that paralyzed our province. Our community remembers the heroism of Heidi who lost her life protecting us. We appreciated the wonderful work she had always done in our community and we will always be grateful for her sacrifice.

[11:45 a.m.]

I have had the privilege of hearing from so many of her students who worked with her through the school, and friends who had so many personal stories of her sense of humour and her never-ending commitment to others, and the courage to face any danger or threat that she encountered.

RCMP Officer Heidi Stevenson was a hero along with all of the other RCMP officers and everyone involved in trying to keep us safe over that two-day period. She gave her life to save you and me from a monster who took the lives of 22 Nova Scotians. This community and her family and friends will never get over the grief of the senseless loss of life that occurred one year ago. We will also never forget the sacrifice that Heidi Stevenson made for our communities.

I am very grateful that the government has brought this bill forward, and I am proud that the actions outlined in this report may help to greater protect all Nova Scotians. It is the least that they deserve, and I am proud to be supporting this bill.

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

STEVE CRAIG « » : Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to speak in support of this bill. As a former Halifax Regional Board of Police Commissioners chair, one of the things that never crossed our minds was that an office of the public had to be concerned with whether an officer was really impersonating a true officer.

My family has many connections to the police officers and their services. I have a brother-in-law who is a 30-plus-year veteran who suffers from PTSD. Never once do I believe it was to worry about the officer also assisting in the investigation or carrying out their duties was indeed a true officer. I have another close acquaintance who is an RCMP retiree and has had many incidents where they have been involved in - so many incidents where life and limb is at stake and never once have I been informed that they were concerned about whether a fellow officer was indeed a true police officer.

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The tragedy of Portapique is immense - not only on the public but the police community as well. We need to be able to ensure, as best we can, that uniforms, vehicles, firearms, do not fall into the hands of those who are meant not to protect and serve but to cause chaos in our society.

With these few short words, Mr. Speaker, I do thank you. I thank the government for bringing this forward and I look forward to what our public has to say in Public Accounts Committee.

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

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. RANDY DELOREY « » : Mr. Speaker, I appreciate everyone who spoke. Certainly support for this piece of legislation, it seems, will be unanimous and that's much appreciated. It is an important piece of legislation. I am honoured and privileged [Inaudible] certainly everybody from all Parties acknowledges the significant importance of this piece of legislation to public safety but also [Inaudible] that families and officers and communities that have been impacted by the events that have been triggered this piece of legislation.

With those few words, Mr. Speaker, I move second reading of Bill No. 1.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 1.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

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. 4.

Bill No. 4 - Biodiversity Act.

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

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : Mr. Speaker, I move second reading of Bill No. 4, an Act to Provide for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity in Nova Scotia.

[Page 234]

As many know, a previous version was first introduced in 2019. When concerns were raised during the Law Amendments Committee, we listened and committed to further consultation. Over the course of the past two years, that's exactly what we did. The revised bill being debated today reflects the feedback of over 140 individuals and groups that participated in our five consultation sessions held across the province. It reflects what we heard from private landowners during further stakeholder consultations.

Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to say that the original intent of this historic legislation remains. The bill provides a legislative provincial mandate for biodiversity. It will provide an integrated framework that supports the stewardship, conservation, and sustainable use of biodiversity in our province. It will work in concert with existing legislation, specifically the Endangered Species and Wildlife Acts.

The Biodiversity Act will allow the government to act proactively to conserve biodiversity in our province and take advantage of potential opportunities to sustainably use it. The bill has several key features; it solidifies the importance of biodiversity, our living environment, in ways that reflect the critical nature of this resource while recognizing its essential role in the livelihoods and well-being of Nova Scotians. It provides a mandate for research, education, partnerships, and co-operative actions.

The bill provides the ability to establish biodiversity management zones. This flexible tool will allow for the management of an area of land over a set period of time to support the conservation for sustainable use of specified biodiversity values. For example, conditions may be put in place to protect the habitat of a certain species of bird in a given area, while activities like tourism and camping can continue.

Another use of a biodiversity management zone could be to enable the harvesting of wild leeks or edible mushrooms. The tool can be customized to enable harvesting to continue, but in a sustainable way. Biodiversity management zones can be established on Crown land or private land with the agreement of the landowner.

Mr. Speaker, another tool in the toolbox is a biodiversity emergency order. This would be used in emergency situations to enable government to quickly take steps to address serious threats to biodiversity. This is a measure that could be used anywhere in Nova Scotia for urgent, temporary situations, when someone is contravening the Act or is about to, and government needs to take action to stop the activity.

One example would be to prevent the import, selling, or distribution of an invasive species. Invasive species present not just a threat to ecosystems in nature but can also have significant financial impacts to the agricultural and forestry sectors. The bill also provides for new regulatory powers to better conserve biodiversity and make sustainable use of it, including the use of incentives and partnerships.

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Feedback from consultants helped improve the bill in several areas including: adding additional clarity to the purpose, powers, and authorities; clarifying how and when tools such as biodiversity emergency orders and management zones can be used; promoting innovation and enabling the creation of incentives for businesses and landowners; clarifying the specific circumstances where compensation to landowners would be considered; emphasizing collaboration by committing to consultation during the development of accompanying regulations; prioritizing education and awareness on biodiversity.

The Biodiversity Act will make it easier to conserve Nova Scotia's wild species, habitats, and ecosystems, and the changes we have included following consultations will make it even more effective in achieving its intended purpose. To be successful, we will rely on collaboration with all partners, all levels of government, non-government organizations, the private sector, land trusts, owners of private land, the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia, and all Nova Scotians.

Before I end my remarks, I would like to thank all those who participated in consultations and lent their voice to help shape this important legislation. I'd like to also thank the members of the provincial biodiversity council for their work on both the previous version of the bill and their ongoing advice that helped shaped the revised legislation we're discussing today. They will continue to play an important role going forward to help guide priority areas for action under the Act, to regulations, education, awareness, and reporting.

Mr. Speaker, this is another important step on our path of conservation and sustainable management of our province's amazing, unique ecosystems and habitats. Nova Scotia is leading the way in Canada with this legislation, and I look forward to continuing this important work.

I look forward to comments from my colleagues.

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

TORY RUSHTON « » : Mr. Speaker, in Spring 2019, I stood in this Chamber and stated that the PC Party supported efforts to protect biodiversity. I also went on to say that we were the only jurisdiction in our country to table such a bill, and we needed to get it right.

To get it right, you need public trust, and we have heard from this government that public consultation was conducted, that stakeholders were engaged. If this took place, Mr. Speaker, why are farmers, landowners, and developers reaching out to our offices in droves? Why are constituents of members on the government side of the House reaching out to our Opposition offices? Because there was no public trust.

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This is a bill the Premier could not complete as minister. It died on the floor after three sessions on the order paper. There is a mandate of the Premier, Mr. Speaker; this is mandated by the Premier.

Just like I did in 2019, I encouraged the minister at the time to protect biodiversity. It was the right thing to do in the right manner for our province and in the right manner for all landowners - consultation and collaboration. I now encourage him as the Leader of a province to listen. There are still many concerns in and around this bill.

Mr. Speaker, the newly revised biodiversity bill is remarkably like the one from 2019, but very few eyes had seen the revisions until 4:00 p.m. yesterday, when it was available on the web. Not one stakeholder has reached out to offices since yesterday, and the days prior to the announcement of the Biodiversity Act when it came in felt consulted over these revisions, yet here we are already in second reading. The way that this government has acted in the last seven to eight years is race through legislation only to bring it back in following sessions to correct it.

Mr. Speaker, I can agree on the fact that there was some consultation done on this bill - the original bill, as a matter of fact. If you can call consultation done by invitation only, with a confidentiality form to be signed by all attendants, can you call that public consultation? I think not. Public consultation is an event that can have public policy discussed in a free and open environment. This did not take place. In the attendance of the Minister of Lands and Forestry at the time, and now Premier, consultation took place between the walls of invitation only under confidentiality. This is not collaborative; this is not transparent; this is not something that this Premier said he would bring to this office.

The broadness of this bill gives the minister a mechanism to control activity on private land, such as but not limited to, agriculture, development, and forestry. It is unclear what this government is attempting to do with such power except to control and centralize more of rural Nova Scotia. Acts such as the Species at Risk Act could be updated to give biodiversity an even higher emphasis.

This bill insinuates that the minister may have control over all living things. Does that mean he has control over you and me, Mr. Speaker? The government can say it is voluntary, but there is a clause in this bill that a biodiversity order can be triggered and removes any voluntary portion. It is unclear what would trigger a biodiversity emergency, as we cannot see the regulations - another secret of this government.

We hear there will be compensation, yet as you read on in the bill, no compensation will be granted if an emergency is enacted. This bill will give the minister overreaching, overarching powers in an underhanded way, Mr. Speaker, to control private lands. We heard before and I am sure we will hear it again, no, no, that is not the intent of the bill. The fact remains that this bill gives the implied intent. Whether you own land for agriculture, forestry, development, recreation, or investment, once this bill is passed, the implied intent is there.

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For two years we, along with stakeholders, have asked: What bill is comparable to the fines associated with this bill? Silence, Mr. Speaker. All we have heard is silence. When I look at a written fine sum of $1 million, I wonder, do we treat our criminals this harshly. But we want to treat private landowners in such a way. Have all agricultural stakeholders been consulted? Have developer associations been consulted? Have Christmas tree growers been fully consulted?

[12:00 noon]

I do not mean informed consultation. I mean full consultation, communication, collaboration. Has the Department of Justice reviewed this bill?

Mr. Speaker, we in the PC caucus still support the protection of biodiversity. It is a must to work hand in hand to protect the environment and combat the current climate change that nobody debates but I fear that this overarching Act has hidden agendas that are yet to be known, as we've not seen regulations. Yet, this bill will be passed in just a few short months, on October 1^st.

This government centralized our health care, centralized our education, and now they are trying to centralize rural economies. This Act may not be intended to crumble parts of rural Nova Scotia but even the best laid-out plans have faults.

Mr. Speaker, I look forward to hearing from Nova Scotians at Law Amendments Committee. We support the protection of biodiversity but as this bill still stands in the clouds of missing consultation and jagged transparency, the PC caucus cannot support the actions stemming around this bill in quiet consultation and lack of transparency. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

LISA ROBERTS « » : Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It is my pleasure to rise to speak to An Act to Provide for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity in Nova Scotia.

We support this bill, as we did in 2019, or we support the tabling of this bill. We support this work going forward.

I will say that I hear the concerns raised by the member for Cumberland South and I think that the question of trust is a really important one. I regret that this bill, which came out of the Natural Resources Strategy - it was recommended in the Natural Resources Strategy, which itself is built on years of consultation and really active dialogue across Nova Scotia - that went back to Voluntary Planning in 2008-09, I think.

[Page 238]

I regret that this bill came forward after years of, kind of, abandonment of those conversations. This government will say now that the Lahey review on forestry kind of encompassed and continued the work of the Natural Resources Strategy. That's not how I see it and I think it's not how very many Nova Scotians see it. The Lahey review came out of protest and pressure from across Nova Scotia, as people were alarmed at the scale of clear-cutting and even-aged harvesting across our landscape. It was just an immediate pre-election capitulation to that concern; it's how I see it and how I remember it from 2017.

There was this long break in what had been a very robust, ongoing consultation and dialogue across stakeholders - which resulted first in the Natural Resources Strategy - that was interrupted when it should have continued and it should have continued to this work. Instead, then this bill came and a lot of those relationships were already strained.

I'm glad to see that there was more consultation in the last two years than there had been, before this was introduced in 2019. I certainly look forward to hearing from many Nova Scotians, through Law Amendments Committee. I hope that we're in a moment where - and I don't know if this has been made clear yet - I hope we're in a moment where other Nova Scotians can also join us and participate virtually in Law Amendments Committee because, certainly, coming to Province House for Law Amendments Committee is often a challenge for folks, and I think we don't always hear the range of voices that we would, because of that.

Something that I am also happy about in this legislation is to see mention of "netukulimk," which is the Mi'kmaw concept. I'm just going to read into Hansard a definition of netukulimk from the Unama'ki Institute on Natural Resources:

"Netukulimk is the use of the natural bounty provided by the Creator for the self-support and well-being of the individual and the community. Netukulimk is achieving adequate standards of community, nutrition, and economic well-being without jeopardizing the integrity, diversity, or productivity in our environment."

It is referenced in this bill in the preamble. It is also mentioned in the Sustainable Development Goals Act. I hope that some people who come to the Law Amendments committee meeting might share thoughts on how that concept and a commitment to that concept can be made robust, can be made real. Recognition of the Mi'kmaq's distinct role as protectors and guardians is vital to any biodiversity work we undertake in Mi'kma'ki. We shouldn't be borrowing the concepts only to put in the preambles of our legislation without also real engagement and thinking about how we partner and affirm the role of Mi'kmaw people as protectors and guardians of Mi'kma'ki.

Biodiversity loss is accelerating at an alarming rate globally, and good intentions are not enough. Our caucus supports bringing Nova Scotia into alignment with Canada as a signatory of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, which sets a target of 30 per cent of lands and waters to be protected by 2030.

[Page 239]

Instead, and again, this is where sometimes this government's record can be quite contradictory. Since the last time this bill was tabled in 2019, we have seen Owls Head Provincial Park secretly delisted, even though it was named in the 2013 Parks and Protected Areas Plan and recognized and considered a protected area widely, including on provincial maps, for decades. The government will be in court to answer for this on April 1^st.

We saw the May 2020 ruling by Justice Brothers, who ruled against the government for neglecting its duties to protect species at risk under the Endangered Species Act. The government continues to approve intensive harvesting in areas known to be habitat for mainland moose while arguing that somehow the science isn't complete on figuring out what the core habitat for moose is, even though they have maps where they have determined where that moose population is.

So yes, we welcome this legislation being back before this House, and we look forward to hearing from the public as the law goes forward to the Law Amendments Committee.

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

KIM MASLAND « » : I'm pleased to have an opportunity to speak to Bill No. 4, the Biodiversity Act, today. Although I'm pleased to speak about this bill, I am deeply concerned with the broad power and unprecedented authority that this bill will give to the minister and the government. Broad power and unprecedented authority over activities that private landowners carry out on their private property, such as agriculture and forestry development each day. The Biodiversity Act, as it has been introduced, will give the minister the power to potentially stop and restrict management activity on land that is privately owned.

I have stood in my place before and I've talked about the strong forestry sector I have in my constituency. It is the backbone of many rural communities in our province, especially in the Region of Queens Municipality. We are rich in history, with many forestry families. I think of the Weir family in Caledonia, Harry Freeman & Son Ltd. in Greenfield, private woodlot owners like Royce Ford, agricultural landowners like the van Dyks, and I could go on. These families employ families, and they inject millions of dollars in our local rural communities.

The landowners I represent understand biodiversity. Quite frankly, I'm sick and tired of them being called greedy people, labelled as not caring about our environment and our forests. The forests are how they make their living. They've been dedicated to growing a stronger forest for years. They care, and they are hard-working, honest Nova Scotians. We have many private landowners who have dedicated their entire lives to the management of their woodlots, their Christmas tree lots. Men and women who have carefully tended to their lands for generations, using their resources to sustain not only biodiversity but their families. That's right, Mr. Speaker. They have sustained their families.

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These lands are the life savings of thousands of Nova Scotians, including many of my constituents. They use them for retirement. They use them to pay for the weddings of their children. They use them to put their kids through school. They use them to donate to the less fortunate, to those struggling in their community. You know what? They use them to put a roof over their heads and sustain themselves in retirement. But with this bill, it appears this all isn't good enough for this government.

Do you think that these hard-working folks do not care about how they make their hard-earned living, our forests, our renewable resources? These landowners understand land management and have a tremendous amount of skin in land ownership.

I've heard it said before that consumers need to hear a message seven times before they will consider taking action, so let me say it again. The people I represent have carefully tended to their lands for generations, using their resources to sustain not only biodiversity but their families. And now government, with this bill, poses a serious threat to these hard-working Nova Scotians.

There's a reason there's a plaque that hangs on the wall at the Region of Queens Municipality. It is a plaque that recognized Queens County as the Forest Capital of Canada. I can tell you, private landowners are sounding the alarm on this bill, and they should. They should be screaming from their rooftops. Although I've spoken about forestry landowners, this will negatively impact landowners who have agriculture land, farming livestock, Christmas tree growing, housing and road construction, forestry management - all development activities.

We're in a housing crisis in this province. There are limited homes for sale in my constituency. There are no affordable rentals available. We have people who are couch-surfing - even worse, sleeping in their cars. In a time when we are trying to attract and encourage housing development, we see a bill like this introduced that, quite frankly, could stop development.

We talk in this House frequently about food security, food insecurity, the need to grow local, and the need to encourage more Nova Scotians to become involved in the agriculture industry, but this bill, quite frankly, could stop development of land to grow more of our food locally.

The overall purpose of this legislation is unclear. We already have the Endangered Species Act. We have the Environment Act, and much more that protects biodiversity. To tell a private landowner what he or she can do on their own private land which they make their living on is simply incomprehensible to me, Mr. Speaker, and it's not voluntary.

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There is a clause in the bill where a biodiversity emergency order can be triggered, which removes the voluntary aspect of the Biodiversity Act. It is unclear what triggers this event and who determines it. This presents a significant risk to private landowners, that the minister can stop and restrict activities on private land at their will.

This legislation gives the Province and the minister overarching and unfettered power across private land, regardless of what the private landowner wishes. The fines that are associated with the Biodiversity Act are highly punitive - up to $1 million. Section 38 of this bill is one of the most concerning sections.

[12:15 p.m.]

The government suggests that many of these issues will be resolved in regulation. Sorry, but given this government's record on consultation, I'm worried. I'm worried for all of our private landowners, our farmers, our woodlot owners, and our developers. What many saw in proposed legislation in 2019 is very different from what we're seeing today.

I would love to introduce the minister to the many hard-working men and women in my constituency who have carefully tended to their lands for generations. Let me say it again, because as I said, you must say something seven times in order for someone to take action: hard-working Nova Scotians who have carefully tended to their lands for generations, using their resources to sustain not only biodiversity but also their families. They have not asked for a handout or even a hand up, Mr. Speaker. They simply ask to be treated fairly. This legislation does not treat rural Nova Scotians fairly.

Someone described this legislation to me last evening as highly intrusive and that it does not respect the privacy of Nova Scotians. I could not agree more with that statement. This bill will simply take many hard-working Nova Scotians out at the knees.

Telling landowners what they can and cannot do with their privately owned land and the fact that they could face million-dollar fines, yet we see the government allowing open-net pen fish farms to be scattered along our coast with minimal fines - this doesn't make any sense to me.

The minister and the Premier need to answer the question of how this will affect the landowner, how it will affect agriculture, how it will affect forestry, and how it will affect recreational users, ATVs, and recreational fishers. They need to be transparent and they need to work collaboratively with Nova Scotians.

I ask all members of this House - regardless of where you sit, of your political affiliation - to think seriously about what this bill will mean to those you represent, the serious ramifications it could have on their lives. We are here for a reason. We were elected to be the voice of the people we represent. Don't sit silent on this one.

[Page 242]

I support biodiversity. Biodiversity is not a new concept. I support a biodiversity Act and will be very proud of legislation that makes us a leader - a bill that involves broad consultation and collaboration with stakeholders, a bill that provides balance.

The minister talks of a toolbox. A private landowner last night described this as a Pandora's box, full of private landowners' worst fears. This is an attack on rural Nova Scotia and a better balance is needed.

I look forward to listening to other members of this House, and most importantly, I look forward to listening to Nova Scotians at the Law Amendments committee. It is my hope that they all will be afforded the opportunity to present if they wish to do so.

THE SPEAKER « » : The House will now recess for 15 minutes.

[12:19 p.m. The House recessed.]

[12:35 p.m. The House reconvened.]

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. We will continue the discussion on second reading of Bill No. 4.

The honourable member for Kings North.

JOHN LOHR « » : Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to say a few words on Bill No. 4.

I would like to start by saying that the provisions in the bill to protect our province from invasive species is a welcome one. I know that is always a priority for agriculture. There's a long history of disasters with invasive species, and it doesn't seem to end. It seems to go on but it traces itself back for hundreds of years, from rabbits in Australia to many of the weed species on our farms in Nova Scotia that are invasive species.

Many people are always surprised to learn that earthworms are an invasive species, too. They are one that has been beneficial, but if you travel far enough into areas that have not been impacted by human activity in Nova Scotia you will find soils without earthworms. By and large, 99 per cent of the time invasive species have been problematic, so that part of the Act we appreciate.

I also appreciate the fact that there are provisions in the bill for voluntary partnership with private landowners. I know there are private landowners - and I even know farmers - who will be willing to participate with this and who care very much about the environment. I hope I have permission - I don't actually have permission - but a friend of mine I want to mention on that account is Doug Hennigar of Hennigar's Farm Market in Wolfville, a well-known farmer, a well-known farm market. Doug goes out of his way to protect the barn swallows. He cares about those barn swallows, which were abundant in my youth but now there are not many of them. There are many farmers who care very deeply about the environment in many ways.

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This bill, though, creates some questions. The first question, and I know the member from the Third Party has asked the same question - it seems strange that a bill is being introduced that probably would have prevented the Owls Head change from provincial park to golf course movement. I know that hasn't happened yet, but this bill seems to be contrary to that, and I don't really understand where the government is coming from on this. This bill seems that it would have prevented that and certainly the government would have incurred a fine on it, possibly, if the government could fine itself anyway. I don't really understand that.

One thing the bill and the Owls Head issue have in common is that there was not adequate consultation. I know the minister has said there was, but I would beg to differ. In communicating with the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, I understand that they have a meeting scheduled for March 29^th, two weeks from now, to meet to talk about this Act. The bill has already been introduced and they were not aware of its contents.

As I know the government understands, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture represents more than 2,500 farmers and is the voice of the industry in the province, very highly respected in the province. It is a very simply solution to meet with the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and consult on it.

What consultations happened in 2020? I can forgive the minister if not much happened in 2020 because 2020 was a year like no other and it was not an easy year to do consultations, there's no doubt. But it could have been done in many ways, simply in sending an email saying this is the bill. I understand that forestry has the same issue. What does that mean for our agricultural community?

I just want to talk a little bit about the history of agriculture. Since World War II, agriculture as changed substantially and continues to evolve. Farmers have become much more aware of the environment and are constantly evolving in how they farm. This has been a partnership that has occurred with science and government. Science hasn't always served farmers well on it. Some of the things that science has provided farmers, later on we come to see that those are problematic. Some of the agricultural pesticides, DDT, which really caused the loss of our raptor birds in the province, was a problem that science provided.

One of the things we've seen is that our farmers have taken it upon themselves and now in the Annapolis Valley - in just this time of year, if you want to see 600, 700, 800 bald eagles you can come and see them here. That's mostly due to our chicken farmers taking in hand to support those raptor birds. That is an environmental success, but we've seen that partnership between science and government exist for 50 years or more. It's been a very successful partnership, and it's been an evolving one.

[Page 244]

I would say that farmers - the agricultural community - do not want to be offside with government. We want to work hand in hand with government, and if government has new priorities that affect the agricultural community, or if the food industry has new priorities, the agricultural community wants to respond to those and meet those requirements. That has been the trend.

We've seen many things change in the course of farming from when I started farming 37 years ago to now. Farmers have many more responsibilities put on them, and we know that the envelope of rules and regulations that affect farmers has substantially changed in the last 37 years. We have much better use and record keeping of agricultural products such as pesticides. We have nitrogen management plans on farms to protect the water. We have manure storages and manure management plans. There are food safety plans. Every farmer nowadays is working with a very complicated food safety plan that almost didn't exist 10 years ago.

These have added a lot of regulatory burden to farmers, and really, it's been not government requiring it, but the food industry. The public has asked for it. The grocery stores, the food wholesalers, they want to have assurance of food safety. Farmers have met those requirements and are willing to meet them and step up and do that.

Food traceability is another one. Tracking lot numbers of animals and of product is something that didn't exist 30 years ago but now is done in virtually every single industry. Every single commodity has traceability. The occupational health and safety considerations that didn't exist, hardly - they've existed for a longer time - meeting those. Environmental farm plans - virtually every farm in the province has an environmental farm plan. This has been done in co-operation with the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and government.

I think I can speak for the industry as a whole in saying the agricultural industry is willing and wants to do what the public wants us to. Farmers, at the end of the day, really just want to produce healthy food and make a living doing it, make a profit doing it.

I question the need for what I would call the big stick in the bill. I question the need for the biodiversity emergency orders with such owners fined. I think there's a misconception in the public about people, organizations, or companies that own a large amount of land - like, farmers own land so they're wealthy.

I think I can give you some ballpark numbers about the dairy industry. If a farmer is milking 60 cows, he probably has $1.5 million worth of quota, $1.5 million worth of physical assets. He can't hardly afford to have a hired man, and on that $3 million worth of assets is probably paying a $400,000 mortgage and struggling to make all of that work. You might say on the top glance, that farmer is worth $2.5 million or so, but in reality, he or she is struggling to pay a hired man to come help milk the cows.

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Those numbers start to change when you start going up to 100 cows milking, or 200 cows. This is why we've seen farms get larger, because of the margins on a per-unit basis. In order to make it all work, you've got to keep getting larger. Those large farms - and in fact, all farms - are committed to meeting all of these requirements. What we need to do is encourage more people to farm and not create uncertainty. Having this big stick is really creating uncertainty.

When I think about what we're doing on farms - and this is a biodiversity bill. I was thinking about what I did when I farmed. I would buy a can of cabbage seed, and there would be 100,000 seeds in that can, and every one of those seeds were genetically identical. They weren't brothers and sisters, they were twins. That's mostly the case. We are creating any one year in any one field, by and large, it is always one crop, and many, many times every single plant in that field is genetically identical.

[12:45 p.m.]

I was thinking, are there any cases where we have more diversity. Of course, your mind immediately goes to the famous three sisters of the North American indigenous culture, which were squash, corn, and beans. We are not doing that by and large in agriculture. It is normally one thing, so in some ways what we are doing on our fields in any one year, in any one given moment, is the opposite of biodiversity.

We know that every single thing we do affects the environment. In my 30 years of farming, what I came to realize when I started farming - I was told in university that every field had a weed bank in it of seeds, so there were millions of weed seeds in each field, and that was the weed bank, and we didn't know why they would grow or take off, but this was always a problem - what I realized as I was farming was that my own farming practices shifted what was in that weed bank. In other words, what I did shifted what was in the weed bank, the way my field behaved.

I came to realize that every single human activity changes the environment - every single human activity. We are having a biodiversity bill here with a heavy stick of huge penalties, on which with our agricultural community has not been consulted. I would suggest to you that this is contrary to the history of the agricultural community and government, it is contrary to how we have operated, how we want to operate, and it is contrary to how farmers think. Farmers in general are wanting to comply with rules and regulations; they are wanting to do the right thing. They care about the environment and want to have a healthy environment.

I was looking at what the Ontario OMAFRA - Ontario Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs - states, their roll in biodiversity conservation.

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"OMAFRA supports biodiversity conservation through activities directed towards the following environmental outcomes: high-quality productive soils and farmlands; clean and abundant water; clean air, clean energy, healthy climate; and healthy ecosystems."

That is what we want. We do not want to be threatened or penalized into doing those activities. We want to be encouraged into doing those activities as farmers. I find it a very strange bill - and this very heavy penalty in the bill, I think I can say that agriculture, to my knowledge, has not been consulted on it and are very alarmed by this, and it is contrary to how we think.

We have to decide what we want in this province. One of the things COVID-19 demonstrated was the fragility of the world food supply. We have seen there were disruptions to it. We probably got off lucky with COVID-19, so to speak, but we know that we are producing 15 per cent of our own food right now. We know that nearly 100 years ago, we peaked in all kinds of production - and there was vastly more land in agriculture production 100 years ago in the province.

Do we want to simply continue to rely on food coming in on 18-wheelers, in airplanes, in ocean containers to Nova Scotia, or do we want to have an increase in our own food supply? I think the answer is, I think the answer should be, that we want to have an increased food supply in this province. Putting in a bill like this, with this kind of penalty, I think is contrary to that. It is a step in the wrong direction.

I did read provisions in the bill where it says the minister can work with - and I know there are those provisions and I appreciate that. I think that in terms of the agricultural community, the farm community wants to work with the Minister of Agriculture, and I have heard the Minister of Agriculture say the same thing. He wants to see food supply increased in the province.

I know the farm community wants to work with the Department of Agriculture, with the minister, and with the people of the province to have a healthy environment that has clean water, clean soil, clean air, and has farmers who can make a living producing food that our province will eat - and can do it profitably. To have that threat of up to a $1 million fine, I believe is going the wrong direction.

I have to tell you that recently I had a call from a young farmer in Ontario who was trying to decide whether ‑ it was a guy - and he was going to come to New Brunswick or Nova Scotia to farm. He was analyzing the farm policies right down to fees by commodity groups - he wanted to grow pigs, so he was aware of the Pork Nova Scotia fees, and wanted to know why they were different than the equivalent New Brunswick group. He was looking at all these things - and young farmers are looking at these types of things.

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I want homegrown young farmers, of course, but we want young farmers from Ontario, too. This type of stuff is a chilling message to our agricultural community. I am disappointed that I in a few seconds can establish that no, there was not consultation. I don't know what happened during 2020, but if the minister says there was consultation, I would be interested in seeing what consultation there was on this actual bill in 2020 or in early 2021. I don't hear it and I don't see it. I think the mindset of the bill is not appropriate for the agricultural community. My colleague has pointed out that it affects many, many other types of activities right to land development and everything.

The reality is that the environment is everywhere. We are all living in the environment, and when we are on the farm we are supporting the city with our food. As a farmer my food was mainly going to Halifax and Moncton, and those areas. We look at what is going on in the city. The city environment has already been significantly altered in the city and we are having the city tell the farmers what to do. It just feels wrong-headed and, as I said, it is opposite to 100 years of history of the agricultural community working with the government, hand in hand, to achieve objectives.

I would say that the agricultural community wants to continue to do that in the way that we have - not in an adversarial role, but in partnership with the government, in partnership with science, in partnership with the food brokers of the world, the grocery stores, and in a partnership with the public. This bill represents a significant departure from that. I would say give us objectives and goals and explain what you want, and the agricultural community responds to that.

Anyway, I would like to say that I have serious reservations about this bill, and I feel that philosophically it is coming from the wrong point of view. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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

ELIZABETH SMITH‑MCCROSSIN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my colleagues from Cumberland South, Kings North, and Queens‑Shelburne for sharing the very valid concerns.

This bill was first tabled two years ago and was withdrawn due to the overwhelming complaints by stakeholders due to lack of consultation. Over the last two years, as the Minister for Lands and Forestry has said, there has been some consultation, but only with very, very specific stakeholders. The majority of landowners and landowner groups in the province of Nova Scotia, and certainly here in Cumberland North, who would be most affected by the passing of this biodiversity bill had no - none, zero - opportunity for input or consultation or explanation from government regarding the contents of this biodiversity bill in its entirety.

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This biodiversity bill will greatly impact Cumberland North ‑ the people I represent. It will greatly impact our forestry sector, our private landowners, and our agricultural sector by taking away control. I echo the concerns that my colleagues have shared, especially my colleague in Kings North. He makes great comments, very valid comments that this bill is going to create great uncertainty in the sectors, and great uncertainty does not encourage investment in agriculture or forestry, and that is what we need.

This bill makes a lot of great comments about using a holistic, integrated, legislative framework. Well, to look at things like increasing the standards of community nutrition and economic well-being, it all sounds good but when you create an uncertainty in an industry you actually reduce the chance of anything like that happening because people simply will not invest. If you're not a landowner you probably won't understand the significance of this bill.

Within Nova Scotia, in Cumberland County, we account for providing about - well, in 2017 16 per cent of the total provincial harvest of forestry was from Cumberland. In some years it was actually greater than 20 per cent of the harvest. Approximately 75 per cent of the wood from Cumberland County is harvested from private lands. This bill is going to affect private woodlot owners and these private woodlot owners have not been consulted on the bill that has the ability to remove their control over their own land.

After the announcement of the closure of Northern Pulp, forestry sectors here in Cumberland County came together. Mr. Ian Ripley led an organization of our forestry sector and together he brought in a facilitator - Frank Gallant - and worked with our Cumberland business connector. In the middle of a snowstorm we held our first public meeting and had almost 100 people show up. It showed the importance to our people. We had four subsequent public meetings after that.

Through those meetings the Future of Forestry in Cumberland County Strategic Plan was created and the Cumberland Forestry Advisory Committee was formed. I bring this up because I'm very proud of our forestry leaders here in Cumberland. Together with the member for Cumberland South, we've worked very closely with our valued members of our communities who provide great contributions to our economy and already provide great land stewardship.

Up here in Cumberland North and throughout all of Cumberland County we're eager to focus on innovation, continued stewardship of the land, and to persevere on a plan that doesn't come from government but a plan that comes from our own people.

I did table a document, I'm not sure if it has made its way to the Legislature, but I want to share a quote that comes from a document called The Future of Forestry in Cumberland County - Strategic Plan Summary. "Our Shared Vision: To transform our forest industry into a champion of climate that utilizes the incredible human and natural resources of our …" government. "Together as a unified forestry family, we will manage and nurture a forest ecosystem rich in biodiversity that will provide much needed shelter for both our economy and the future generations of Nova Scotians to come." That comes from a strategic plan that was developed by the people.

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We've done our part, we've come together, we've engaged with one another and on many occasions have attempted to engage with government. Unfortunately, when it comes to this bill, government did not engage with our stakeholders, with our private woodlot owners. On behalf of landowners in Cumberland North, I share concerns today of government over-reach. It's one thing to have these rules apply to Crown land but this government is planning to take over control of private landowners in Cumberland North and throughout Nova Scotia. Is this a violation?

[1:00 p.m.]

While there have been some positive changes to the bill that was pulled two years ago, there has not been adequate consultation. You will hear me say this a lot this Spring session but Nova Scotia starts here in Cumberland and Cumberland County plays an integral role in Nova Scotia, in Atlantic Canada and, in fact, all of the country, as the Atlantic gateway and trade corridor. We're tired of accepting decisions made by government that affect us, with little to no consultation, whether it's forestry, private woodlot owners or border rules.

Government serves the people, not the other way around and trust is a key component of any effective government. If a government wants the support of the people, then they must earn the trust of the people. That starts with a basic philosophy that government does not assume they know best and they should consult the experts. In this case that's private landowners.

Currently, this government does not have the trust of landowners and the forestry sector in Cumberland North, and I believe probably throughout the province. By not allowing and seeking true and honest consultation with our people, trust will continue to be very weak. There is too much left to regulation, and while there is a duty to consult regarding the regulations, the trust is not there, and there is grave concern over how much control government is taking away from private landowners in this province.

I invite the government to read our strategic plan for the future of forestry in Cumberland County, which is the document that I tabled. I invite the government to learn from our dedicated landowners, who are already committed to stewardship of our land. They're already caring for the biodiversity of their land. Government does not always know best. Meet with our landowners. Meet with our experts.

I did that. I did that along with some of my colleagues. I learned from experts like Mac Davis, Craig Tupper, Allan Bonnyman, Darrin Carter, Keith Thompson, Steve McLelan, and many more experts right here in Cumberland. Learn from the experts. Learn from our private landowners. Many of them are third- and fourth-generation landowners. They have historical knowledge that is far more valuable than any information that anyone else can attain.

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Before implementing a biodiversity Act, talk to the people that it's going to be impacting. It is highly intrusive, as my colleague from Queens-Shelburne has already stated. Landowners should have the right to quiet enjoyment of their own property without government interfering. This bill is over-reaching and will have serious consequences on autonomous land ownership. It is an attack on rural Nova Scotia, and I look forward to hearing from stakeholders at the Law Amendments Committee.

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

The honourable Minister of Lands and Forestry.

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : I'll add a few comments before I close debate on the second reading of this bill.

I have listened to the members speak, and I couldn't disagree more. Multiple sessions around the province were held publicly and very well attended on this very bill. Changes were made based on consultations for this bill. That's why it was at the Law Amendments Committee and didn't move forward the last time. It was committed to go back. The government has committed to doing exactly that. Further consultation was done.

All of the comments around consultation, I believe, are inaccurate. On a future day, as a matter of fact, I will provide in writing to this House and table those consultations, where they happened and with whom, on what dates and times they occurred. That will come forward. I also look forward to the Law Amendments Committee to hear from those stakeholders who will put forward their ideas and their thoughts on the Biodiversity Act as it exists today, with the changes made from where it came from in 2019 when it was first tabled. There will be much more, Mr. Speaker, as we move forward on this bill, and debate is healthy. Facts are even more healthy, and I look forward to all the facts being put on the table.

With those few comments, I move to close second reading.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 4. All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

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

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The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 9.

Bill No. 9 - Crown Lands Act.

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

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : I move second reading of Bill No. 9. I'm pleased to rise and speak to the important amendments to the Crown Lands Act.

Nova Scotians are changing how they think about the use of our natural resources. We have committed to reflecting this change in our policies, programs, and laws.

At the Department of Lands and Forestry, we are shifting to a new way of thinking about how our Crown lands are managed. We believe that Nova Scotia can move towards an ecological forestry model that preserves and enhances biodiversity while at the same time supporting a sustainable, innovative forestry sector.

We believe these values can coexist, and these amendments to the Crown Lands Act reflect that. The Crown Lands Act is the foundation for how we administer and manage public lands in the province. Currently it focuses on the forest industry and the harvesting of timber products. These amendments to the purpose section shift the intent of the Act to reflect the values we as Nova Scotians place on our natural resources. This change provides guidance on how to interpret the legislation. It also aligns and supports the recommendations made by Professor Bill Lahey to consider biodiversity first in how we sustainably use, manage, and protect Crown lands.

We know that citizens have a deep connection to our forests and natural landscapes. They provide livelihoods in rural communities, they're enjoyed recreationally by young and old, and they contain unique biodiversity characteristics that should be conserved and protected.

This shift in thinking in our department and across government positions Nova Scotians as a leader in protecting biodiversity and maintaining healthy forests. This will ensure people can see their values reflected in the management of our public lands for generations to come. We know there is more work to do in this area, and that will take time, but these are important concrete steps that lay the foundation as we continue the sustainable stewardship of our lands and forests into the future.

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

TORY RUSHTON « » : I thank the minister for his update on the bill. On the surface, this looks like an update to the Act that Professor Lahey has asked for. As it may be, we look to supporting this Act as we move forward, but also reserve the right to receive comments and such through the Public Accounts committee.

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

LISA ROBERTS « » : I welcome this change to the Crown Lands Act and this legislation that specifically amends the purpose clause of the Crown Lands Act. This is a change that is long overdue. The current language in the purpose of the Act reflects the ethos of the 1984 Royal Commission on Forestry, which saw our forests primarily as a product and the role of the government to ensure that pulp and paper companies got that product.

It has made it a challenge for the former Department of Natural Resources and the current Department of Lands and Forestry to pursue the other objectives which Nova Scotians need them to pursue. That includes climate litigation, recreational use, and ecological forestry, with a longer vision for the health and biodiversity of our forests.

It has been estimated that the Acadian Forest could store 20 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over the next few years. We need a department that is stewarding our Crown lands with that kind of vision of how good we can be to our forests and how good our forests can be for us.

We hear from this government that this change to the Crown Lands Act is just the beginning of more changes to come to legislation concerning forestry. I want to point out that this change to the Crown Lands Act, though much needed, could have been done earlier. In December 2018, when the government accepted the recommendations of the Lahey review, reviewing the Crown Lands Act was one of the identified clear priorities, and three sessions went by - not to mention a year when the Legislature was closed - without this change being made. Nova Scotians are frustrated by the slow rate of implementation of the Lahey review, and they're concerned that there's cherry-picking of the recommendations.

Of course, there's a young man sitting outside our Legislature here on the fourth day of a hunger strike. He's asking for evidence that this House means what it says. Words are important, and actions also are. The Premier needs to restore faith with Nova Scotians by introducing a moratorium on all even-aged harvesting until the bulk of the Lahey review is actually implemented.

We look forward to hearing more from the public about this change as this law goes forward to the Law Amendments committee.

THE SPEAKER « » : Just checking with our virtual members to see if anybody else wants to speak on this. Please signify by raising your hand.

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I don't see anybody, so we'll look for the honourable Minister of Lands and Forestry to close second reading of Bill No. 9, the Crown Lands Act, an Act to Amend.

The honourable Minister of Lands and Forestry.

HON. CHUCK PORTER « » : I appreciate the comments from the member opposite.

At this time, I will move to close second reading on Bill No. 9, Amendments to the Crown Lands Act.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 9. All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

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

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

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

GOVERNMENT MOTIONS

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Mr. Speaker, I move that the adjourned debate on the Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne be now resumed.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable Leader of the Official New Democratic Party. (Laughter) Caught myself there.

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, we're not like the IRA, having both an official and a provisional component.

Thank you very much. I'm glad to begin to make some comments and assessments of the government's program, as it's set out in the Speech from the Throne, in the time remaining before us this afternoon, and then to probably complete those comments at a later time.

I'd like to begin by making a prefatory remark about the much-appreciated gesture of the government yesterday to divide the position of the Deputy Speaker amongst the three Parties in the House. I think it is a worthwhile and significant gesture. Sometimes when people say the word "gesture," they couple that with the word "mere" - a mere gesture. I don't mean gesture in that sense, because I think gestures are often things of significance.

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I remember when I first came to this work 12 years ago. Amongst the first things that happened after I took my seat in the new then-majority NDP government was that the House Leader at the time, Frank Corbett, got up and read a resolution much like the resolution that was read yesterday by the Liberal House Leader, providing that the Deputy Speaker's position should be held jointly by the three Parties.

I had followed matters in the years previous to that closely enough to know that that was a custom that had been developed over two or three administrations previously, which had been minority administrations. In the organization of those minority governments, so as to produce the maximum amount of stability, that program of dividing the Deputy Speaker position had been something that had been enacted.

So when, in a majority situation, the government that I was newly a part of made that gesture toward the other two Parties of the House, it was something that I felt proud to be associated with. I think there is a largeness about that kind of gesture.

I think about the great Nova Scotian novelist Charles Bruce, who in his signature novel The Channel Shore, about the people of Guysborough County, says somewhere in the novel something to the effect that as different as they all were, one thing they all had in common was that they weren't small.

I think it's important in politics, that as different as Parties are, that the relationship between them not be small. I just want to say first, by way of preface, that's something that we in our Party acknowledge with appreciation.

So, turning then to the Speech from the Throne itself, the Speech begins on its first page with an acknowledgement that we are in the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaw people. I want to continue in that vein and to say also, as I begin my own response to the Speech, something that I think is also necessary to say on that foundation in these days.

I want to begin also by acknowledging that this acknowledgement means that the Peace and Friendship Treaties of 1752 and 1760-61 also provide the constitutional context for all law-making and all regulation-making that takes place here, including that, I wish to say, of the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans, as well as of the provincial Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Having said that first, I want to, second, continue and to point out that at this place in the Speech from the Throne, the Speech from the Throne does not continue - quite jarringly and startlingly - does not go on to say anywhere in its contents those three words which really encapsulate a great deal of the vision and the hope that has been expressed by the people of Nova Scotia in that whole year-long period since the House had reconvened over the pandemic. Let me begin by saying those three words out loud, which the Speech omits doing, the words "Black Lives Matter."

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Let me then continue further, returning to the Speech, to express another word of appreciation on the third page for the government's having included the tribute here to Alexa McDonough in connection with the recent 40^th anniversary of her having been elected as the first woman to lead a major political party in Canada, when in 1980 she became Leader of the NDP in Nova Scotia. This is a milestone, of course. It is very meaningful in our caucus, since we are the caucus with the greatest proportion of women of any caucus elected to official party status in any jurisdiction in the history of our country. I think it's additionally significant that this historic achievement of Alexa McDonough has been marked in the Speech from the Throne on the week of International Women's Day.

We in the NDP appreciate that the government has understood that this is a marker and a milestone, the importance of which should be shared with the people of our province.

From there I want to turn in the Speech from the Throne to the Speech's real programmatic contents. The Speech's real programmatic contents are organized under the heading Recovery, Renewal and Respect.

Now, I am an appreciator of the art of alliteration and I must say that the author of this text has really brought forward some very fine phrasing - recovery, renewal, respect. It's such fine phrasing, in fact, that I want to try to partly mirror in my own comments the same logic by organizing my response to this Speech in saying that as a defining document I find it made up of the disingenuous, the depthless, and the deleted.

Let me begin with the disingenuous. It is disingenuous for the government to present the following sentence about long-term care in the Speech from the Throne: "A tragic outcome of the pandemic was the way in which our seniors were living in these facilities," as though the government were somehow a group of objective field anthropologists who just happened to stumble across this unfortunate reality in nursing homes and bears no real connection or no real responsibility for the disturbing situation.

The opposite is true. Let me offer, Mr. Speaker, a list of reasons for the conditions, as the Speech puts it, in which our seniors are "living in these facilities." Reason No. 1, the cutbacks in the operating funds that provide for recreation programming, staffing, and diet in the long-term care facilities of Nova Scotia, which were imposed in the middle years of this government's administration, and which a majority of the ministers of this government today stood in their places when their names were called and said yes to. I defy the government to produce one single administrator of a nursing home that received those cuts in Nova Scotia who will say anything other than that the impact of those cuts still is being felt today.

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The No. 2 reason for, as the speech says it, "the way our seniors were living in these facilities," is the negative and harmful impact of the government's decision not to open a single new nursing home bed. Not facility, mind you - it wasn't simply that they failed to open a single facility. It was their decision not to open a single bed in the midst of the greatest greying tsunami in the history of the province from the time they came to power in 2013 until last year. The result being that when the pandemic struck, the virus found thousands of residents of long-term care in Nova Scotia in double-, in triple-, in quadruple- accommodation, older facilities where they were thereby placed at much-increased risk as a consequence of shared living and washroom space - risk to the transmission of the virus.

In case anybody should think that this is a case of COVID-19 hindsight, looking back to 2020, I want to be very clear that this government was told very precisely and long previously about the infection control implications of their moratorium on new long-term care facility construction. They were told this both by their own Department of Health and Wellness and on this floor in this House by the NDP.

The No. 3 reason for the way, to use the Speech's words, "our seniors were living in these facilities" is that the recommendation for dramatic facility staffing increases commensurate with the change and frailty and acuity of nursing home populations in recent years - which has come from a raft of studies, including from the Nova Scotia Nurses' Union, the Nursing Homes Association of Nova Scotia, and the government's own expert panel on long-term care - has not been enacted. The consequence being that every hour in Nova Scotia, dozens of bells are rung at bedsides, bells that should be answered and which staff are heartbroken about due to their chronic inability to answer those bells in a timely way because the government has not shouldered its responsibility to provide, train, hire, and properly pay the numbers of staff that are required to adequately carry out this extraordinarily important work.

These, then, are some of the reasons for the situation that COVID-19 found in the nursing homes of Nova Scotia. To address this issue without acknowledging this is disingenuous, in my view.

Let me tell you what else in the Speech is disingenuous and discouraging, and that's the following sentence on the subject which my friend and colleague, the member for Halifax Needham, has been discussing earlier today. It is this sentence: "In the forestry sector, my government will accelerate the implementation of the recommendations of the report of Professor William Lahey to adopt ecological forestry principles . . ."

Now I find this discouraging. I use the word advisedly, because "discouraging" is precisely the word that Mr. Lahey used earlier this week to describe the repeated delays in the implementation of the triad ecological forestry framework of his 2018 report. That's 2018, Mr. Speaker. That's three years ago. Aren't you awfully glad these aren't the people who were in charge of rolling out the CERB? Never mind, I'll go back. I'm sorry. I'm digressing.

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Mr. Lahey said that he was discouraged. He found it discouraging to look at the repeated delays in the implementation of his review, because these were recommendations that the government, at the time that they were brought forward, said that they accepted. Now, what Mr. Lahey is rightly discouraged about, what the member for Halifax Needham said earlier that she is rightly discouraged about, what Jacob Fillmore out on his hunger strike on Hollis Street is discouraged about, and what a multiplicity of groups and interests concerned about sustainability in both the woods and the forest economy across our province are profoundly all discouraged about, is the fact that the Lahey recommendations are at all in a position where they need to be accelerated today.

The reason they need to be accelerated is that precisely the need for this acceleration was created by (1) the elimination of the clear‑cutting limitations out of the Natural Resources Strategy by this government, (2) the stalling in bringing forward the Lahey report in 2018 in the first place by this government's department, and (3) the 30‑month foot‑dragging in the implementation of the Lahey framework by that same government, the same department under the former leadership and motivation of the present Premier, who now tells us in the Speech from the Throne that he is going to accelerate the implementation of that, which we are somehow given in the document to understand. To accelerate the development of that which has been just quite inexplicably held back. Slowed down. Delayed. I find this disingenuous, Mr. Speaker.

I want to go on and say that in addition to . . .

THE SPEAKER « » : Order, please. I would ask the member to not use the word "disingenuous" because it is unparliamentary.

GARY BURRILL « » : Mr. Speaker, I'll go on to say that in addition to the dimension of the speech to which I have been objecting, there is also a great deal in this speech that I think it is fair to describe as depthless - as in superficial, lacking in substance, thin, the kind of performative progressivism that is mainly adept at signalling the right things or inserting the right vocabulary in the right places so as to point to and evoke that which it does not necessarily have the commitment to actually bring about.

For example, what I mean by depthless is on Page 6: "My government is committed to working with the federal government on a national child care strategy because child care is critical . . ." Woohoo. Hold the phone. Can't you just hear a parent home with their infant and their three‑year‑old - they are piling up debts faster than you can say minimum payment, because any child care they might be able to get is going to be too expensive and it's not going to be worth taking any job that they are going to be able to find. Can't you just see that parent when their partner comes home at the end of the day and says, whoa, I got some good news today. Wait until I tell you what I heard. The provincial Liberal government is working to liaise with the federal government on a national child care strategy.

[Page 258]

I don't think so. Let's get real. Women were disproportionately affected by the pandemic wave of job and income losses to such an extent in our province and women have disproportionately not returned to work. Their incomes have disproportionately been affected in the long months since then, in significant part because the provincial provision of child care in Nova Scotia is so unsystematic, under‑financed, and lousy.

Here's real. The economic multiplier for government investment in affordable, accessible child care is $1.00 to $2.25, which is a whomping order of magnitude greater than even, say, construction.

[1:30 p.m.]

The reason for this is the dual economic benefits that come from investment in child care, because there are on the one hand the job creation impacts of the hiring of a network of early childhood educators across the province, while on the other hand, there is also at the same time the high-octane economic development rocket fuel of increases in the labour force participation that happens when parents, primarily women, go back to work. That is a big part of the reason why progressive jurisdictions like British Columbia are investing so heavily in affordable, accessible child care.

The absence of parallel investment in a parallel actual system is one of the leading reasons why Nova Scotia today has the lowest median income in the country. We don't need a performative commitment to liaise with the federal government on a national childcare strategy. What we need is affordable, accessible, quality, universal child care in Nova Scotia so our people can improve their lives by being able to actually afford to go to work.

When I say that I find the Speech from the Throne characterized also by not just the depthless, but also the deleted, I want to tell you what I mean by "deleted." What I mean is that which is omitted; that which is absent; that which is left out.

It is in my view preposterous and incompetent that at the one-year mark of a global pandemic, in which the second-most common sight of transmission of the virus after long-term care has been workplaces, that the government should show up after a year of having been unwilling to face the elected representatives of the people of the province, to show up with a Throne Speech that makes absolutely zero mention and shows no indication of being even tangentially aware of the huge public health/economy question of paid sick leave today in Nova Scotia.

One year ago this past Monday, the first COVID-19 death in Canada took place. It was, as I said here yesterday, in a long-term care facility where sick leave provisions had recently been cut back. An employee went to work although she was experiencing flu-like symptoms because she was not in a financial position to do anything else. The symptoms turned out to be COVID and 20 residents passed away in the ensuing outbreak.

[Page 259]

This is the type of situation on the basis of which such a wide range of voices has been raised in favour of paid sick days, not as a matter of the possible beneficence of one's employer, but as a matter like statutory holidays or vacations of provincial employment standards embedded in the Labour Standards Code. International Monetary Fund Director Kristalina Georgieva has called for it. Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, has called for it. Citizens of Quebec and Prince Edward Island and the employees of federally regulated workplaces have it. Thirteen states have implemented it, along with a wide range of cities.

We are in a province where over half of our workforce has no paid sick days whatsoever, a province where we have more than 1,000 nurses - more than 1,000 nurses, mind you, who normally work without paid sick days. The Liberal government of Nova Scotia responds by dedicating to this subject, in its Speech from the Throne after a year's absence from legislative discourse, dedicating exactly what? Excuse me? Nothing.

I find it a deletion that is disturbing. It is also this kind of omission that speaks of being at a significant remove from people's daily lives that there is not a mention whatsoever either in this Throne Speech on the subject of rent control.

Let us follow the lead of the Speech and talk for a minute about economics. Here we are, facing the greatest economic contraction in the memory of anybody under the age of 85, at the core of which is the megahit which people's incomes and their ability to spend have taken as a result of the pandemic. There is only one viable path out of this economic hole and that lies along the road of strengthening the buying power, the purchasing power, of consumers.

Does anybody seriously think that the purchasing power of consumers in Nova Scotia can be adequately restored in a situation where the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Halifax has increased by 43 per cent in the last five years? Does anybody seriously think that our economy can be adequately stimulated back to something approximating healthy in a situation where, as is the case today, 20 per cent of our renters pay out 50 per cent of their income for their rent? I don't think so.

Mr. Speaker, you will allow me to point out one more omission as I'm closing, I think one more glaring absence in this Throne Speech. It is, in my judgement, simply unseemly that in this province, where we endure the highest rate of child poverty in Canada; in this province where we are the only province where child poverty has continued to worsen since the introduction of the Canada Child Benefit, while in every other province it has improved; in this province where the number of households fed through food banks has increased by 15 per cent since this government last faced the representatives of those it serves; in this province where the province-wide child poverty rate for kids under six is now just half-a-hair short of 30 per cent - that in these circumstances, the government should bring forward a Throne Speech in which they do not even utter the word, do not even mention the thought of child poverty in the defining document in which they set out their whole program - omitted, deleted, gone.

[Page 260]

What I find deleted, what I find absent, Mr. Speaker, in the Speech from the Throne - I'll say just lastly - is exactly the framework of, as it calls itself, recovery, renewal and respect, in terms of which the government has attempted to present themselves in this document.

Instead, what we have here in front of us is a combination of the deleted, the depthless, and whatever I would be able to say if I had longer to think about it, alliteratively, a word beginning with "d" which is not the unparliamentary word "disingenuous," in a way that does not appear effectively remediable, in my judgment, Mr. Speaker. This is all true, short of the electoral opportunity that will soon be provided to bring forward something better. Thank you.

THE SPEAKER « » : Thank you. I would ask the member if he would make a motion to adjourn the Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne.

GARY BURRILL « » : I move for the adjournment of the Address in Reply. Thank you.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is to adjourn the Address in Reply. All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

The motion is carried.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. GEOFF MACLELLAN « » : Thank you, Mr. [Deputy] Speaker. It's a pleasure to see you occupy that Chair for us here in this session of the Legislature. That concludes the government business for today.

I move that the House do now rise, to meet again Tuesday, March 23^rd, 2021, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Following the daily routine and Question Period business will include the second reading of Bill No. 23, an Act to Open Adoption Records in Nova Scotia and, with time permitting, the Address in Reply.

THE SPEAKER « » : The motion is that the House rise to meet again on Tuesday, March 23^rd, 2021, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

All those in favour? Contrary minded? Thank you.

[Page 261]

The motion is carried.

We stand adjourned until Tuesday, March 23^rd.

[The House rose at 1:39 p.m.]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

[Page 262]

RESOLUTION NO. 121

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (The Speaker)

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

Whereas the Eastern Shore is a beautiful part of the province of Nova Scotia with many provincial parks and recreational sites, including Martinique Beach which is the longest beach in the province; and

Whereas the Eastern Shore is blessed to have many residents who take great pride in our natural environment and assets, often taking matters such as community clean ups into their own hands; and

Whereas on March 3, 2021, Musquodoboit Harbour residents Boyd Chapman and Renee Lavigueur organized and executed a successful community clean up of Martinique Beach;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Boyd Chapman and Renee Lavigueur and all the volunteers for their effort to clean up Martinique Beach for the betterment of all park visitors.

RESOLUTION NO. 122

By: Hon. Kevin Murphy (The Speaker)

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

Whereas the Porters Lake Community Services Association supports the community of the Eastern Shore through maintaining the community centre, hosting events, and organizing activities for all community members; and

Whereas one such community event is Lake and Shore Days, which brings people from all over the Eastern Shore to Porters Lake to celebrate our community; and

Whereas Melanie MacIsaac assisted with the organization of the multiday community celebration, which included a pancake breakfast, a Teddy Bear Picnic, a live music concert, fireworks, and a community parade;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Melanie MacIsaac for her dedication to the people of the Eastern Shore through her involvement with the Porters Lake Community Services Association.

[Page 263]

RESOLUTION NO. 123

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Peter Arnold Battiste Sr. of Potlotek deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Peter Arnold Battiste Sr. having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 124

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Phyllis Elizabeth (Scanlan) MacDonnell of Walkerville deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Phyllis Elizabeth (Scanlan) MacDonnell having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 264]

RESOLUTION NO. 125

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Rena Jane Hicks of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Rena Jane Hicks having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 126

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Reverend Hugh Donald MacDonald, "Father Hughie D", of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Reverend Hugh Donald MacDonald, "Father Hughie D", having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 265]

RESOLUTION NO. 127

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Richard William Fougere of Poulamon deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Richard William Fougere having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 128

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Robert John "Johnnie" Feener of Fort McMurray, formerly of Louisdale, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Robert John "Johnnie" Feener having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 266]

RESOLUTION NO. 129

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Robert Alexander "Kato" MacKay of Port Hawkesbury, formerly of Glace Bay, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Robert Alexander "Kato" MacKay having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 130

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Rose Marie King (Picco/Thibeau) of Evanston deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Rose Marie King (Picco/Thibeau) having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 267]

RESOLUTION NO. 131

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Russell Richard Poirier of D'Escousse deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Russell Richard Poirier having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 132

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Sarah Catherine "Alex" MacLean formerly of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Sarah Catherine "Alex" MacLean having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 268]

RESOLUTION NO. 133

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Sharon Chiasson of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Sharon Chiasson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 134

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Sister Ruth Calvert formerly of D'Escousse and Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Sister Ruth Calvert having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 269]

RESOLUTION NO. 135

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Susan Felicity (Sampson) Stone of St. Peter's, formerly of River Bourgeois, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Susan Felicity (Sampson) Stone having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 136

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts, upon family and friends, feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Terrance Leo "Terry" McNamara of Evanston deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn we celebrate the contributions to life, love, and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Terrance Leo "Terry" McNamara having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 270]

RESOLUTION NO. 137

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts, upon family and friends, feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Todd Michael Malcolm of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn we celebrate the contributions to life, love, and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Todd Michael Malcolm having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 138

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts, upon family and friends, feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Vivian Diane Keerd of Arichat, formerly of Pondville, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn we celebrate the contributions to life, love, and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Vivian Diane Keerd having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 271]

RESOLUTION NO. 139

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts, upon family and friends, feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Vernon Joseph Boudreau, "Budda," of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn we celebrate the contributions to life, love, and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Vernon Joseph Boudreau, "Budda," having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 140

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts, upon family and friends, feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Wanita Marie Martell of Arichat, formerly of Petit-de-Grat, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn we celebrate the contributions to life, love, and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Wanita Marie Martell having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 272]

RESOLUTION NO. 141

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas William "Billy" Herbert MacLeod of Grand River deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of William "Billy" Herbert MacLeod having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 142

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas William "Billy" Villenor Bowen of Rocky Bay deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of William "Billy" Villenor Bowen having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 273]

RESOLUTION NO. 143

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas William Alexander "Bill" Graham of Richmond Villa, St Peters, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of William Alexander "Bill" Graham having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 144

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Zena Marie Poirier of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Zena Marie Poirier having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 274]

RESOLUTION NO. 145

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas William Henry Pelley of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of William Henry Pelley having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 146

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Dustin MacNeil formerly of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Dustin MacNeil having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 275]

RESOLUTION NO. 147

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Edwin Gray Millar of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Edwin Gray Millar having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 148

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Edwin Joseph Landry of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Edwin Joseph Landry having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 276]

RESOLUTION NO. 149

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Elda "Jessie" Landry of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Elda "Jessie" Landry having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 150

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Elizabeth (Cooksie) Viola MacDonald of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Elizabeth (Cooksie) Viola MacDonald having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 277]

RESOLUTION NO. 151

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Ella Harriett Dorey of Janvrin's Island deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Ella Harriett Dorey having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 152

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Ellsworth "Sam" Embree of Arichat, formerly of Port Hawkesbury, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Ellsworth "Sam" Embree having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 278]

RESOLUTION NO. 153

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Elmer Arthur MacGillivary of Sydney, formerly of Fourchu, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Elmer Arthur MacGillivary having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 154

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Emiera Evangeline Rose Marshall-Murray of Potlotek deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Emiera Evangeline Rose Marshall-Murray having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 279]

RESOLUTION NO. 155

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Eric Palmer of Loch Lomond deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Eric Palmer having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 156

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Ethel Whilima McRae, "Sister Rosa," of Port Hawkesbury, formerly of Louisdale, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Ethel Whilima McRae, "Sister Rosa," having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 280]

RESOLUTION NO. 157

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Eva Jean LeJeune of Port Hawkesbury, formerly of West Arichat, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Eva Jean LeJeune having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 158

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Evelyn May Boudreau of Little Anse deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Evelyn May Boudreau having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 281]

RESOLUTION NO. 159

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Francis Joseph Martell of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Francis Joseph Martell having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 160

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Francis "Mickey" Joseph Martell of Rockdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Francis "Mickey" Joseph Martell having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 282]

RESOLUTION NO. 161

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Francis Xavier Paté (Pottie) of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Francis Xavier Paté (Pottie) having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 162

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas George Allen Mauger of West Bay, formerly of Cap la Ronde, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of George Allen Mauger having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 283]

RESOLUTION NO. 163

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Georgina "Gena" Beatrice MacDonald of Soldiers Cove deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Georgina "Gena" Beatrice MacDonald having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 164

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Gerald Joseph LeBlanc of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Gerald Joseph LeBlanc having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 284]

RESOLUTION NO. 165

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Gerard Conrad Burke of The Points deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Gerard Conrad Burke having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 166

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Gérard Joseph Boudreau of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Gérard Joseph Boudreau having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 285]

RESOLUTION NO. 167

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Gregory George Mombourquette of L'Ardoise deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Gregory George Mombourquette having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 168

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Helen Frances Thomas Cloake of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Helen Frances Thomas Cloake having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 286]

RESOLUTION NO. 169

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Helen Jane Rehberg of Cameron Mountain Road deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Helen Jane Rehberg having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 170

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Helen Laurana Landry of Lower Sackville, formerly of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Helen Laurana Landry having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 287]

RESOLUTION NO. 171

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Hilda Esther Kinney of Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home, formerly of Steep Creek, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Hilda Esther Kinney having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 172

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Hillegonda "Hilda" Albertha MacDonald of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Hillegonda "Hilda" Albertha MacDonald having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 288]

RESOLUTION NO. 173

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Hubert Hugh Matthews of Grande Anse deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Hubert Hugh Matthews having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 174

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Jacqueline "Jackie" Martell of L'Ardoise deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Jacqueline "Jackie" Martell having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 289]

RESOLUTION NO. 175

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas James Alexander Richard of Hureauville deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of James Alexander Richard having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 176

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas James Edward Melanson of Big Pond deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of James Edward Melanson having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 290]

RESOLUTION NO. 177

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas James "Jimmy" Richard Dorton of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of James "Jimmy" Richard Dorton having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 178

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas James Joseph (Jim) MacDougall formerly of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of James Joseph (Jim) MacDougall having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 291]

RESOLUTION NO. 179

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas James Laughlin Cotie of St. Peter's, formerly of Grande Greve, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of James Laughlin Cotie having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 180

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Martha Faye Beaton of Lower South River, formerly of Isle Madame, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Martha Faye Beaton having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 292]

RESOLUTION NO. 181

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Alfreda Boudreau of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Alfreda Boudreau having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 182

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Alfreda "Freda" Landry of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Alfreda "Freda" Landry having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 293]

RESOLUTION NO. 183

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Almelda Boudreau of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Almelda Boudreau having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 184

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Bernadette Bona of Sampsonville deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Bernadette Bona having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 294]

RESOLUTION NO. 185

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Bernadette Sampson of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Bernadette Sampson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 186

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Catherine Samson of West Bay Road, formerly of Port Hawkesbury, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Catherine Samson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 295]

RESOLUTION NO. 187

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary "Dawna" MacDonald of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary "Dawna" MacDonald having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 188

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Eileen Sampson of Arichat, formerly of Louisdale, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Eileen Sampson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 296]

RESOLUTION NO. 189

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary "Evelyn" (Fougere) Poirier of Poulamon deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary "Evelyn" (Fougere) Poirier having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 190

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Jane MacDonald of St. Peter's, formerly of Judique, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Jane MacDonald having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 297]

RESOLUTION NO. 191

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and departs upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Jeanette Mury of West Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Jeanette Mury having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 192

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and departs upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Josephine Burke (Matthews) of Grand Anse deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Josephine Burke (Matthews) having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 298]

RESOLUTION NO. 193

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and departs upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Kathleen "Kaye" (MacNamara) Proctor of MacIntyre Lake deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Kathleen "Kaye" (MacNamara) Proctor having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 194

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and departs upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Linda Boudreau of Petit-de-Grat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Linda Boudreau having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

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RESOLUTION NO. 195

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and departs upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Loretta Clannon of Little Anse deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Loretta Clannon having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 196

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Lorraine Sampson formerly of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Lorraine Sampson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 300]

RESOLUTION NO. 197

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Margaret Rachel Davidson of River Bourgeois deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Margaret Rachel Davidson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 198

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Rachel (Boucher) Bona of River Bourgeois deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Rachel (Boucher) Bona having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

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RESOLUTION NO. 199

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary "Stella" Warner of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary "Stella" Warner having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 200

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Talida Boucher of Fall River, formerly of Arichat, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Talida Boucher having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

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RESOLUTION NO. 201

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Viola Samson of Sampson's Cove deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Viola Samson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 202

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mary Viola Touesnard of River Bourgeois deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mary Viola Touesnard having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 303]

RESOLUTION NO. 203

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Melissa (Lisa) Ann Gibson (Lahey) of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Melissa (Lisa) Ann Gibson (Lahey) having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 204

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Michael Shawn Hyland of Arichat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Michael Shawn Hyland having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

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RESOLUTION NO. 205

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Michelle Marie Doucette of Rockdale, formerly of Halifax, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Michelle Marie Doucette having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 206

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Mildred Millie Theresa Burke of Berwick, formerly of River Bourgeois, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Mildred Millie Theresa Burke having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 305]

RESOLUTION NO. 207

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Muriel Vera Ferguson of Windsor, formerly of Cleveland, Richmond County, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Muriel Vera Ferguson having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 208

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Myrtle "June" Oliver of Port Hawkesbury deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Myrtle "June" Oliver having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 306]

RESOLUTION NO. 209

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Nancy Leigh King of Sydney, formerly of Port Hawkesbury, deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Nancy Leigh King having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 210

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Neil James Ferguson of Kempt Road deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Neil James Ferguson having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 307]

RESOLUTION NO. 211

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Neil John MacDonald of Oban deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Neil John MacDonald having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 212

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Nona "Alayne" Martell of St. Peter's deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on her family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Nona "Alayne" Martell having her name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

[Page 308]

RESOLUTION NO. 213

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Omer Joseph Boudreau of Petit de Grat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Omer Joseph Boudreau having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 214

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas Paul George Martell of Petit de Grat deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of Paul George Martell having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

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RESOLUTION NO. 215

By: Alana Paon (Cape Breton-Richmond)

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

Whereas any loss of life is tragic and imparts upon family and friends feelings of emptiness and loneliness; and

Whereas James Alfred Linden of Louisdale deserves all the respect and honour we have to give for a life that touched so many people and left a lasting impression on his family and community; and

Whereas as we mourn, we celebrate the contributions to life, love and our memories from current or former deceased residents of Cape Breton-Richmond;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly honour and commemorate the life of James Alfred Linden having his name forever written as historical record in the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly.

RESOLUTION NO. 216

By: John Lohr (Kings North)

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

Whereas Brian Hirtle served the citizens of District 3 in Kings County as a Municipal Councillor for 12 years; and

Whereas he has served the public faithfully and diligently as a councillor and Deputy Warden and on numerous committees for the county and the province; and

Whereas he has retired from municipal politics;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Brian Hirtle for his commitment and dedication to public service of behalf of the citizens of Kings County.

RESOLUTION NO. 217

[Page 310]

By: John Lohr (Kings North)

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

Whereas Jeff Carter has founded the Friends of the Scotts Bay Salt Marsh; and

Whereas Jeff has singlehandedly picked up over 300 bags of garbage; and

Whereas Jeff's dedication and commitment has inspired many others to join the Friends of the Scotts Bay Salt Marsh, resulting in many 1000s of bags of garbage being picked up in Scotts Bay;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in congratulating Jeff Carter on his outstanding commitment to cleaning up the Scotts Bay Salt Marsh and inspiring others to do the same.

RESOLUTION NO. 218

By: John Lohr (Kings North)

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

Whereas Lloyd Boutilier is a Kentville resident and a teacher at Central Kings and operates a t-shirt business through which he printed "Stay the Blazes Home" t-shirts; and

Whereas he decided to donate all the proceeds from these shirts to the local food banks, raising over $7,000; and

Whereas after the tragic events in Portapique, Lloyd produced shirts and sweatshirts with the "N.S. Strong" saying, which raised over $12,000 that he will soon be donating to the families who tragically lost a loved one;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Lloyd Boutilier for his exceptional service and dedication to our province.

RESOLUTION NO. 219

[Page 311]

By: John Lohr (Kings North)

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

Whereas Lynn Pulsifer served the citizens of Kentville in Kings County as a town councillor; and

Whereas she has served the public faithfully and diligently as a town councillor for four years; and

Whereas she has retired from municipal politics;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Lynn Pulsifer for her commitment and dedication to public service on behalf of the citizens of the Town of Kentville in Kings County.

RESOLUTION NO. 220

By: John Lohr (Kings North)

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

Whereas Meg Hodges served the citizens of District 1 in Kings County as a municipal councillor for four years; and

Whereas she has served the public faithfully and diligently as a councillor; and

Whereas she has retired from municipal politics;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Meg Hodges for her commitment and dedication to public service of behalf of the citizens of Kings County.

RESOLUTION NO. 221

By: John Lohr (Kings North)

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

Whereas Pauline Raven served the citizens of District 2 in Kings County as a municipal councillor for eight years; and

Whereas she has served the public faithfully and diligently as a councillor; and

Whereas she has retired from municipal politics;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly join me in thanking Pauline Raven for her commitment and dedication to public service of behalf of the citizens of Kings County.

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