Birth

January 18, 1953 in Springhill.

Education

Atlantic Police Academy, Université de Moncton.

Employment History

Served 20 years as a police officer with Moncton and Springhill municipal forces. Received Governor General's Award for bravery while a police officer, in addition to a 20-year police exemplary service medal. Was president and a provincial director of Local 203, Police Association of Nova Scotia.

Political Career

First elected to House of Assembly in March 1998; re-elected in 1999, August 2003 and June 2006. Elected Speaker by his Legislative peers in August 1999 and September 2003. Cabinet duties have included:

• Attorney General;
• Minister of Justice;
• Minister responsible for Military Relations;
• Minister responsible for the Human Rights Act;
• Minister responsible for the Regulations Act; and
• Minister responsible for part II of the Workers' Compensation Board Act.

Community Involvement

Served as a member of the citizens' advisory committee of the Springhill Institution; co-ordinator of the local association of Crime Stoppers; also past president of the Springhill Minor Hockey Association; past vice-president of the Springhill Basketball Association, past member of Springhill Industrial Commission; previous Master of the Masonic Lodge; and past financial secretary for the Springhill United Baptist Church.

Family

Married since 1973 to Linda Scott, two children.