Second Session

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HALIFAX, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2008

Sixtieth General Assembly

Second Session

11:00 A.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Alfie MacLeod

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Mr. Wayne Gaudet

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

We will commence with the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Human Resources.

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table two reports entitled Moving Toward Equity: Employment Equity and Diversity in Nova Scotia's Public Service 2007-08, and also the Annual Report of the Civil Service Disclosure of Wrongdoing Regulations and Policy, 2007-2008.

MR. SPEAKER: The reports are tabled.

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STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

HON. BROOKE TAYLOR: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I make this statement on behalf of the Minister of Labour and Workforce Development. I rise today to inform the members about steps this government is taking to avert a looming shortage of skilled workers. This government wants every Nova Scotian to achieve their full employment potential and for the province as a whole to attain social prosperity.

Mr. Speaker, it is no secret that Nova Scotia has significant challenges, a declining birth rate and an aging population. To help stave off this concern, this government is making a $0.5 billion investment in workers over the next six years, through two Canada-Nova Scotia agreements that were signed in June. These investments are over and above what this government has already done to strengthen our economy. Already we have increased investments in our education sector to make post-secondary education more affordable to more Nova Scotians. We have made significant investments in Nova Scotia Community College in terms of infrastructure and programming.

Training and educating a workforce is only part of the solution, Mr. Speaker. We need employers who can provide challenging and rewarding careers to the fine young minds that graduate from college and university. To that end, we are attracting knowledge-sector employers such as Research In Motion, Keane, Altus Geomatics, and Convergys. We are attracting finance-sector employers such as Citco, Butterfield, Marsh, and OC Financial Services. We are leading Nova Scotia into the new global economy. At the same time, our resource sectors - oil and gas, forestry, fisheries, and agriculture - need workers.

Mr. Speaker, this is where provincial retention and recruitment initiatives, such as Opportunities Nova Scotia, come into play. Opportunities Nova Scotia helps Nova Scotians to prosper here at home, and attracts newcomers to our province. It helps employers and employees to meet the challenges of today's labour market.

At the beginning of my statement, Mr. Speaker, I mentioned two landmark federal-provincial agreements. The Labour Market Development Agreement will transfer responsibility for employment insurance skills programming from Ottawa to the province, along with $81 million a year. A number of federal public servants will come to the provincial side to help deliver the programming.

The second agreement, Mr. Speaker, the Labour Market Agreement, will help non-EI eligible people, working or unemployed, to succeed. Over six years an estimated $85 million will be transferred from Ottawa to Nova Scotia for the LMA programming. LMA programming will have an emphasis on Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, immigrants, African Nova Scotians, Acadians and francophones, older workers, women,

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people who were self-employed, workers with less than a Grade 12 education, and social assistance recipients.

This year LMA programs will help working people with disabilities to keep working, provide English-language training for immigrant professionals - just last night the member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island pointed out the need for this type of programming; work with employers and industries that cannot find enough skilled workers; strengthen essential workplace skills; and counsel new Canadians about entrepreneurship.

Mr. Speaker, that is what we are doing to develop, attract and retain skilled workers for this province. This will lead to greater prosperity for the province, its communities, its workers and their families. Colleagues on both sides of the House will soon receive support materials that will help them respond to inquiries from their constituents. Final drafts are now under review. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to thank the minister for providing a copy of his statement prior to the session today. This announcement today, or this statement today, has been in the works for awhile and it's one that we welcome. Nova Scotia is one of the last provinces to enter into a federal-provincial agreement with respect to labour market development. Most of the other provinces, and particularly Quebec and Alberta, have been spending federal dollars for a long time, meeting the needs of their provincial labour market, unlike the Province of Nova Scotia where the federal government has been providing these services and now they will be transferred, I think more appropriately, into the provincial realm where we will be able to have greater control to define things so that they meet our local objectives and our provincial objectives.

[11:15 a.m.]

Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that I'm not as optimistic about where this government is going as the minister would portray. I had an opportunity, along with my Leader, back in the Fall to meet with entrepreneurs in a machining business in the Dartmouth area, Advanced Precision. Some people may know about this particular business - it's quite an advanced machining shop and they were having tremendous difficulty securing the skilled labour force they need. They raised a number of excellent points about public policy that need to change in the Province of Nova Scotia to address the skills labour force. Every region has occupations that are under pressure and there is a list kept of what those occupations are. The Province of Nova Scotia has really neglected to develop a good list that reflects the on-the-ground reality of many organizations such as this machining business.

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MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The chatter is growing. The honourable member for Halifax Needham has the floor.

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: So you will find occupations on that list like chefs, cooks, babysitters and nannies, Mr. Speaker, but you won't necessarily find the skills trades specialists that employers such as Advanced Precision are facing. In addition, they have experienced difficulty with the community college and the need for the community college to work more closely with industry in terms of generating the graduates who are able to provide a skilled workforce and, as well, they raised the question of foreign visas. The incredible lag time in getting workers from other jurisdictions into the country is significant. These are all things that our government needs to do better.

I just heard recently that the eight anaesthesiologists who were brought to Nova Scotia from Germany to meet our shortage here in the Capital Region, that they now may be facing some challenges in terms of being able to continue to participate in our health care system. We need to be more proactive about these issues, not the lag that we have seen from this government. There is much that can be done and the minister neglected to look at the details of what needed to be worked out to make our labour market a more aggressive one in terms of retention and training for our workforce. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I too thank the minister for giving us a copy of his statement before the Legislature met. I have some grave concerns about this announcement. Like my colleague from the Opposition has said, this has been in the works for a long time, and I don't know where the $0.5 billion is coming from but the federal government has been funding this for a long time and we have some incredibly good organizations around the province working with federal civil servants who have done an excellent job in helping create jobs and helping people who have problems with educational upgrades or technical training, or whatever the case may be, getting positions, and indeed making our workforce more competitive.

Also, my colleague indicated that there's a shortage of trained people on machine operation. Well, I spoke about this last session, about the poor quality of training we're receiving from our schools, not because the instructors aren't good, we do have very good instructors, but the process has been watered down so badly that indeed when you train people such as machinists - and because I ran a very technically advanced machine operation and manufacturing facility, and if you asked someone to come into my business, as I said before in this House, if they said they were machinists, I'd hire them on the spot and then give them a week's work. If they could do the work, we'd pay them top rate; if not, we would let them go and we never let anybody go.

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But, the reality is, if we're going to have economy here in Nova Scotia and our economy's going to grow, we need highly skilled, well trained, technical people, whether it's someone who's doing machine work or someone working in a lab or someone else doing plumbing work or whatever the case may be, we need highly skilled people. I don't think our training system is really effective at the present time because typically you'd like to have an employee when you . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member for Preston has the floor. If conversations need to take place, please take them outside the Chamber.

MR. COLWELL: Yes, thank you. As I was saying, when an employer hires an employee, you want an employee that can come to work for you and with the present economic conditions even worse, they have to be productive from day one. You can no longer retrain people on the job site and hope in a year's time or two years' time that you get them up to a point that they can earn their keep, as you might say. Indeed, they have to be productive right away and I don't see that happening now with the present training system this province has in place.

It's very unfortunate that's the case, but that indeed is the case. There are some programs that people can go right into the workforce and it works well. But we do need to look at this. I don't think this is new money, it's not new money. It's money that's been there, just redirected to the province and the province is a good place to have it.

We talk about the fishery needing workers. The fishery is going to be in a crisis very shortly and I think they're going to need workers, all right, but they're also going to need a better price for their lobsters that moves forward.

Again, it's good to see this happening here in Nova Scotia, at long last, it's a long time coming. It's good to see they're transferring some of the very capable federal civil servants to the provincial civil service to do the work they should be doing here. We'll wait and see how the government does with this and hopefully they will generate some enthusiasm and help our economy grow, I'll wait and see because it's hard to believe in these hard economic conditions. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I would request the consent of the House to revert to the order of business, Presenting and Reading Petitions.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table a petition. The operative clause is: "We, the undersigned, believe that improvements need to be made to the South Berwick Corner intersection, formerly known as Junction 360, where Highway 1 intersects with Commercial Street. We are asking the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal to take appropriate action to improve the safety of the intersection."

This petition contains 1,070 names and I have affixed my name.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

RESOLUTION NO. 6102

HON. RODNEY MACDONALD (The Premier): Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Province of Nova Scotia acknowledges and celebrates its common interest in continuing to build a foundation for prosperous and vibrant Mi'kmaq communities through partnership, commitment and respect; and the meeting on the 25^th day of September, 2008, represented an historic first for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs and the provincial Cabinet to meet as a whole and discuss mutual areas of interest; and

Whereas this meeting allowed us to reaffirm the value of common processes we currently have in place, such as the Tripartite Forum, the Consultation in Terms of Reference and the Made In Nova Scotia Process; we respect and value the Mi'kmaq's vital contribution to Nova Scotia's history, culture and economy; and

Whereas we believe the Mi'kmaq people share a common interest with other Nova Scotians in building the future prosperity of the province and that discussions at this meeting contributed to greater levels of mutual understanding, respect and lasting relationships for the common interest of building the future of Nova Scotia;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the historical significance of the joint meeting between the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs and the Nova Scotia Cabinet.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, before I read my resolution, if I might be permitted to make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER: Please do.

THE PREMIER: I would ask all members to join me in welcoming, in your gallery today, Mr. Speaker. I would ask them to rise as I call out their name. Mr. Fritz King, Atlantic Container Line; Kevin Kyte, Atlantic Container Line; Jim Stoneman, Atship Services; Peter Selig, Hapag-Lloyd. I would ask them to receive the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

RESOLUTION NO. 6103

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nova Scotia Marine Day 2008 is being celebrated on November 27^th; and

Whereas the celebrations planned for the day will help to showcase the vital part the marine industry has played and continues to play in our province; and

Whereas Nova Scotia plays a pivotal role as a trade gateway to all of North America;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House commend the contributions of those involved in the marine industry and the bright future this sector continues to have both on the provincial and national scene.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 6104

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas during 2008, we have celebrated Nova Scotia's pioneering role in the shaping and evolution of democracy in Canada by establishing the first representative government in the country; and

Whereas on this 250^th Anniversary, the committee, as chaired by former Premiers John Hamm and Russell MacLellan, has held many innovative events to celebrate this special milestone; and

Whereas events like the very moving ceremony in this Chamber in October, along with casual get-togethers like Pizza and Politics for school classes have helped to generate amongst all Nova Scotians the importance of this special Nova Scotian first;

Therefore be it resolved that as the year wraps up, all members thank the Democracy 250 Office - its hardworking, honourable chairs and staff for their creative efforts to remind all Nova Scotians how democracy has positively influenced our lives and our nation's prosperity and continue to encourage all citizens to cherish the valuable freedoms democracy has afforded us.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Seniors.

RESOLUTION NO. 6105

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that this doesn't only pertain to seniors.

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

Whereas there are more than 130,000 seniors living in Nova Scotia today and each year 1 in 3 will fall; and

Whereas preventing falls is a priority of the Department of Health Promotion and Protection's injury prevention strategy, as well as the Department of Seniors and Nova Scotia's 12 regional falls prevention coalitions; and

Whereas falls are serious injuries that can be prevented and we applaud the work of injury prevention staff, seniors and community groups and, indeed, all health care workers in our district health authorities across the province in their efforts to reduce falls for Nova Scotia seniors;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize November 22 to 29, 2008, as Falls Prevention Week in the Province of Nova Scotia and encourage all Nova Scotians to be aware of the life-changing effects a fall can have.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

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Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

You spoke with some authority on that.

The honourable Minister of Health.

RESOLUTION NO. 6106

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas statistics from the Canadian Perinatal Health Report 2003 found that 25 per cent to 50 per cent of all pregnancies end in miscarriage or loss; and

Whereas miscarriage, stillbirths and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome are a source of grief for many mothers, fathers, siblings and grandparents across Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day is observed in other Canadian provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador so that bereaved parents and families can have a day of their own to remember their precious angels;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize October 15^th as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day in Nova Scotia to honour the many baby boys and baby girls who have died as a result of miscarriage, stillbirth and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

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The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Economic Development.

[11:30 a.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 6107

HON. ANGUS MACISAAC: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my colleague, the Minister of Education, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas a how-to video for students, called Preparing for Science Fairs, was produced in Nova Scotia and has won a bronze Telly Award at the 29^th annual awards presentations held in New York; and

Whereas the Telly awards recognize distinction in creative work and honour outstanding video productions, and with over 13,500 entries from around the world, this year's competition was one of the most competitive yet; and

Whereas the video has been distributed to teachers across Nova Scotia to use as a learning tool to encourage students to participate in science fairs;

Therefore be it resolved and that all members of this House congratulate Prisma Productions, EnCana Corporation and Nova Scotia Youth Experiences in Science, for being recognized with a Telly award for Preparing for Science Fairs.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

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RESOLUTION NO. 6108

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Ann MacLean was first elected to municipal office in 1985 as a councillor in the Town of New Glasgow, and held that position until she was elected the town's mayor in 1991; and

Whereas Mayor Ann MacLean has been a strong supporter of local government across the country, as an active member of the Canadian Federation of Municipalities, serving as its president in 2004, where she was instrumental in bringing women's concerns to the table by formally organizing the Standing Committee for Increasing Women's Participation in Municipal Government; and

Whereas Mayor Ann MacLean's dedication to the residents of New Glasgow, indeed to municipal government, is highlighted through her impressive array of accomplishments which include being a past president of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities, leading environmental work in her community that led to national recognition and promoting equality and women's rights;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join with me in thanking New Glasgow's outgoing Mayor Ann MacLean for her leadership in New Glasgow, her contributions to municipal government overall and a stronger Nova Scotia, and extend to her and her husband, Russell MacLellan, best wishes for the future.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

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RESOLUTION NO. 6109

HON. WILLIAM DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Chezzetcook Fire Department is run with the help of volunteers; and

Whereas through self-sacrifice and skilled dedication, volunteers like Chad Norwood protect our rural communities; and

Whereas without these volunteers our fire departments and communities would be weakened;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House applaud the contribution of Chad Norwood and wish him success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS

NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 6110

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the member for Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the widespread use of social networking by school students requires new vigilance and prevention of the bullying and cyber-bullying which can result; and

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Whereas tens of thousands of students have learned through such networks that today is supposed to be Kick a Ginger Day, a joke that some children may take too seriously;

Whereas school officials in other provinces have taken steps to avoid real consequences in their schools today;

Therefore be it resolved that this House urge the Minister of Education and school authorities to take a forward-looking and preventative approach to the bullying, cyber-bullying and violence in schools which can quickly develop through social networks.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 6111

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Alfreda Croft was a long-time resident of Liverpool and then spent her later years in Annapolis Royal until her passing at the age of 89; and

Whereas Ms. Croft along with her daughter, Blanche Chemist, cared for 453 foster children over a 35-year period; and

Whereas Ms. Croft made a positive impact on many lives, including her grandson, Steven Selig, who is a retired Halifax police sergeant;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House recognize Alfreda Croft for her dedication and commitment in the caring of hundreds of foster children she welcomed into her home.

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Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 6112

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

Whereas Peter Murray of Hantsport, well-known in local municipal politics, was recently recognized for his 25 years of dedicated work with the Government of Nova Scotia's Department of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Public Service Commission is dedicated to building a service that not only strives for excellence, but also recruits Nova Scotians to meet the needs of a modern and innovative Public Service; and

Whereas Nova Scotia's Public Service consists of hardworking and resourceful individuals offering a high level of quality work;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly congratulate Hantsport's Peter Murray on his outstanding work with the Nova Scotia Government over the past two and a half decades.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition.

RESOLUTION NO. 6113

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas military and RCMP personnel often face dangerous conditions, health hazards and elevated levels of stress throughout their careers serving the public of Canada; and

Whereas the military and police pensioners have long been concerned that in 1966, the federal government of the day created an injustice, deliberate or otherwise, when they merged military and RCMP pension benefits with CPP rather than stacking them; and

Whereas the Yukon Territory has urged the federal government to correct the unfairness that was imposed upon members and retirees of the Canadian Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police;

Therefore be it resolved that this House urge the federal government to work with military and RCMP pensioners to properly review how their pensions were integrated with the Canada Pension Plan and to ensure that these pensions fairly reflect the service to Canada that is undertaken by these men and women.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

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RESOLUTION NO. 6114

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas today the Newfoundland and Labrador Legislature will reconvene to discuss the issue that is concerning Canadians from coast to coast - the economy; and

Whereas Finance Minister Jerome Kennedy will deliver an economic update to the Legislature, detailing how their province is weathering the financial storm; and

Whereas Newfoundland and Labrador are the latest addition to a list of six provinces which have brought forward economic updates, Nova Scotia not being one of them;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his government follow the lead of Danny Williams and his Minister of Finance and bring forward an economic update immediately.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Victoria-The Lakes.

RESOLUTION NO. 6115

MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Cabot High School teacher Mike Dunphy is doing an exemplary job with his respective classes on the democratic process as low voter turnout remains a major public policy issue in Canada; and

Whereas two Grade 11 students from Cabot High School, Elyse Quann and Jeffrey Grover, travelled to Cape Breton University on October 20^th to participate in the Legislature's Select Committee on Participation in the Democratic Process Focus Group; and

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Whereas besides their participation in the democratic focus group, teacher Dunphy also registered his students, who were some of the 400,000 students involved with the student vote project this Fall, which provides learning opportunities that bring real life issues and democratic processes into the classroom;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House compliment Cabot High School teacher Mike Dunphy for doing such an outstanding job in working with students to help them learn the importance of their right to vote.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition

RESOLUTION NO. 6116

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Hector Jacques and Michael Whitford founded the engineering firm of Jacques Whitford in 1972 and built it into one of the most outstanding firms in its field in the world; and

Whereas Jacques Whitford has demonstrated how a world-class firm can succeed beyond expectations while headquartered in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Hector Jacques is himself one of many who emigrated to Nova Scotia during the last 400 years, contributing greatly to the economic vitality of our province;

Therefore be it resolved that this House recognize the tremendous contribution to Nova Scotia's success and good name made by Hector Jacques, Michael Whitford and all those who have been part of the Jacques Whitford team, and wish them the new success they seek as the firm enters a new era in partnership with Stantec.

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Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party on an introduction.

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: I'd like to draw the attention of the House to the west gallery where Marie Cox is sitting. Marie is my administrative assistant. Marie has been a long-time Party member and has worked in the Premier's office and has served a few Liberal Leaders over a number of years. (Interruptions) I say that because Marie has decided that this time she was going to retire and I was going to move to a higher office. (Laughter)

I want to acknowledge Marie, not just because of her commitment to the Liberal Party and her commitment to me, as Leader of this House, but also her commitment to public service. I know of very few Nova Scotians who are so proud and honoured of the traditions of this House and respect them - not only respect the people who sit in this caucus but all members of this House who serve. Marie, I ask you to stand and receive the warm welcome of this House. (Standing Ovation)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 6117

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Marie Cox began her political career with former Premier Russell MacLellan's office; and

Whereas in 1999, Marie became the administrative assistant to the Leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party and has continued to serve the Leaders of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party with distinction; and

Whereas for the past nine years, Marie has been a guiding hand and source of inspiration and knowledge to all members of the Liberal caucus and the staff;

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Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House of Assembly congratulate Marie Cox as she retires and wish her many years of health and happiness.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Pictou Centre.

RESOLUTION NO. 6118

MR. PATRICK DUNN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Town of New Glasgow bids farewell to one of its most dedicated citizens later this month; and

Whereas Mayor Ann MacLean has served on town council for 23 years, 17 of those as mayor; and

Whereas in her time as mayor, the Town of New Glasgow revitalized its waterfront, upgraded its sewer system, received national recognition for its environmental initiatives and its many Communities in Bloom successes, and Mayor MacLean's political career also included terms as president of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities and president of the Canadian Federation of Municipalities;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House send their best wishes to retiring New Glasgow Mayor Ann MacLean for 23 years of dedicated service making her town one of Nova Scotia's best.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

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Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Preston.

RESOLUTION NO. 6119

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the forest fire that started on June 13, 2008, in the riding of Preston and burned for three days was a horrendous event; and

Whereas the Lake Echo Fire Department did a tremendous job in saving property and preventing injury against all odds; and

Whereas the firefighters worked long hours to ensure that the fire was put out and the community was safe again;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly recognize the firefighters from the Lake Echo Fire Department for their sacrifice and bravery in fighting one of the worst forest fires in Nova Scotia's history.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

[Page 6410]

[11:45 a.m.]

RESOLUTION NO. 6120

HON. RONALD CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the DesBarres Manor Inn, an historic structure built in 1837 in Guysborough, was awarded Cuisine of the Year at the 2008 Taste of Nova Scotia Prestige Awards on November 6, 2008; and

Whereas the DesBarres Manor Inn has received glowing reviews for its cuisine, boasting use of fresh ingredients from the manor garden, as well as supplies from local farmers and fishers in the area, making it a unique culinary experience; and

Whereas the DesBarres Manor Inn is open from mid-May to mid-October for guests wishing to experience exceptional contemporary cuisine and gracious Maritime hospitality;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate owner Glenn Williams, general manager Audrey Firth, and executive chef Shawn Zwarun for receiving the Cuisine of the Year award.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

I would remind all members and those in the gallery that electronic devices are to be turned off. Thank you. Phones, especially, when I can hear them ring it's not a very good thing. (Interruptions) No, that's fine. I don't intend to be The Grinch who stole Christmas, I just don't want to hear phones ringing in the House. Thank you very much.

The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

[Page 6411]

RESOLUTION NO. 6121

MS. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Royal Canadian Legion, Somme Branch 31 and its more than 700 members are celebrating its 80^th Anniversary; and

Whereas Somme Branch provides many services to veterans in our community, including assistance to veterans in need, hospital visits, bursaries for youth, youth dart competitions, community fundraising, and sponsorship of the magnificent Sea Cadet Unit at 12 Wing Shearwater and the Preston Army Cadet Corps; and

Whereas Somme Branch also operates a military museum in a neighbouring heritage building in downtown Dartmouth;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Somme Branch 31, Royal Canadian Legion on its 80^th Anniversary and thank its executive, including President Bill Sampson, and Legion members for their many contributions to this country, province and community.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Glace Bay.

RESOLUTION NO. 6122

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in their recent report card Breaking Barriers, Not Bones, Osteoporosis Canada gave Nova Scotia substandard grades; and

[Page 6412]

Whereas Nova Scotia received a D for access to bone-density testing, an inadequate grade that is below the national average; and

Whereas in addition, Nova Scotia reached a level of mediocrity, a C, for its access to osteoporosis medication;

Therefore be it resolved that the Minister of Health heed the advice of Osteoporosis Canada, and provide osteoporosis sufferers with the support they need and deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 6123

MR. CHUCK PORTER: Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the honourable member for Cape Breton West - you may know him - I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution - if I could hear.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member for Hants West has the floor.

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

Whereas the community of Donkin shall gather at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 5 on December 6^th, to honour one of its own; and

Whereas it has been 54 years since a Nova Scotian has been President of the Dominion Command of the Royal Canadian Legion; and

Whereas Wilfred (Hook) Edmund is the first Cape Bretoner to be President of Dominion Command of the Royal Canadian Legion in its history;

[Page 6413]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate Wilfred Edmund on this great honour for him and his beloved Province of Nova Scotia and further congratulate Annie Edmund for her never-ending support of her husband and his great work and the Royal Canadian Legion.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Hants East.

RESOLUTION NO. 6124

MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Order of Oddfellows and Rebekahs is a worldwide fraternity that promotes friendship, love and truth; and

Whereas Oddfellows and Rebekahs encourage volunteer service from their members to their communities; and

Whereas on November 8, 2008, Mrs. Irene Ingraham of Crescent Rebekah Lodge 28, Shubenacadie, was awarded the Decoration of Chivalry, the highest honour that a Lady Rebekah can receive from her Order;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Irene Ingraham on her Decoration of Chivalry and thank her for her notable records of volunteer service to her community.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

[Page 6414]

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 6125

MR. WAYNE GAUDET: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the people of this province are asking to be informed about the state of the province's finances, a request the Premier repeatedly denies; and

Whereas the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Quebec have all been up front with their citizens about the current economic situation; and

Whereas, as the leader of this province, it is incumbent on the Premier to be accountable to each and every Nova Scotian;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier bring forward an economic update describing the challenges our province faces, as well as his plan to remedy these tough economic times.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Natural Resources.

[Page 6415]

RESOLUTION NO. 6126

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Cambridge and District Elementary School has been most fortunate to have had Jennie Jolly as their librarian for the past 27 years; and

Whereas Mrs. Jolly goes above and beyond the call of duty, having supervised over 1,000 student environment projects over the past 16 years in the Canada-wide program, Seeds Foundation Learners in Action Environmental Program, which earned Cambridge Elementary School "earth status school"; and

Whereas Jennie's dedication to her students led her to give up attending her own Volunteer of the Year Award presentation to be at the school concert, Assignment Earth, this past April 30^th;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge Jennie Jolly's outstanding dedication to her students, school and community and congratulate her on putting her students ahead of her own personal, but well-deserved recognition.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Pictou West.

RESOLUTION NO. 6127

MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Hector Exhibit Centre and Archives in McCulloch House Museum in Pictou, has had an active and busy year under the leadership of curator and site manager, Dayle Crouse; and

[Page 6416]

Whereas these museums operate under the auspices of the Pictou County Genealogy and Heritage Society, who recently hosted an open house with music, refreshments, guided tours of McCulloch House and a guest speaker, historian John Ashton; and

Whereas the current displays at the Hector Centre include a history of Pictou Island since the 1800's, and the works of artist Carolyn Vienneau;

Therefore be it resolved that this Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate the curator, staff and board of directors of the Hector Centre and McCulloch House Museum for a successful year and wish them continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Kings West.

RESOLUTION NO. 6128

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in recent comments to the media, the Premier mused that reinstating an 8 per cent sales tax rebate on power bills would send the province into deficit; and

Whereas with the program valued at approximately $28 million, it would suggest that we are currently dealing with a razor-thin surplus; a far cry from the last economic update that had the province running a $355 million surplus; and

Whereas it is incumbent on this Premier to be open and honest with Nova Scotians on the financial situation of this province;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his government immediately provide a fiscal update to this House, so that a plan can be devised to weather this economic storm.

[Page 6417]

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Human Resources.

RESOLUTION NO. 6129

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas remembrance and well-being of our veterans are high priorities of all Canadians; and

Whereas the federal Veterans Affairs Minister has awarded commendations to veterans who have made contributions and sacrifices; and

Whereas veteran Jack Walsh, of Bridgewater, has received such a commendation for his efforts in support of fellow veterans;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House congratulate and thank Mr. Jack Walsh for all his countless hours of work on behalf of Merchant Navy veterans.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

[Page 6418]

RESOLUTION NO. 6130

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas The Coast has recognized the Bluenose Laundromat as Halifax's Best Laundromat for the 12^th time in its Best of Halifax Awards; and

Whereas the readers of The Coast are the people who vote for this award; and

Whereas the Bluenose Laundromat is centrally located on the Halifax peninsula at 2198 Windsor Street, in the constituency of Halifax Chebucto;

Therefore be it resolved that Maria and Bill Zeliose, the owners of the Bluenose Laundromat, be congratulated by the House for maintaining the high standards of service to the residents of Halifax Chebucto which have garnered them this award so many times.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 6131

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Digby to Saint John ferry service has been in operation as a major part of this province's infrastructure; and

Whereas this major highway route has been around nearly as long as democracy itself, and the vast majority of people in this province believe it must continue; and

[Page 6419]

Whereas the Atlantic Gateway initiative is planning to expand and build more infrastructure for moving goods and people to and from this province;

Therefore be it resolved that the government include this ferry route as part of the Gateway initiative for the future growth of this great province.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Pictou East.

RESOLUTION NO. 6132

MR. CLARRIE MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas there is widespread anticipation of reduced consumer spending during this holiday season, due to the grave economic concerns around the world; and

Whereas Nova Scotia products range from malt whiskey to wine and many other farm products, clothing, crafts, jewelry, toys, furniture, lobster and many other top-quality seafoods; and

Whereas buying and giving excellent Nova Scotia products this holiday season is one way to help our local economy weather the economic storm;

Therefore be it resolved that this House urge Nova Scotians to carefully consider the purchase of fine local products for gifts during this holiday season, knowing that Nova Scotia's produce and products have long been among the best in the world.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 6420]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Kings West.

RESOLUTION NO. 6133

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Travis Atwater and Allen Balch, two Grade 5 students at St. Mary's School in Aylesford, aren't afraid to help out for a good cause; and

Whereas when Travis and Allen heard about the plight of Nicholas Oickle and his family needing a trip to Toronto's Sick Children's Hospital for a bone marrow transplant, they promised to dress up as girls and perform a dance to encourage their parents to get involved; and

Whereas true to their word, they dressed up as girls with makeup, wigs, dresses, high-heel shoes and their efforts raising $251 for the Oickle Family;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate and commend Travis and Allen for setting a great example in their school and community.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[12:00 noon]

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

[Page 6421]

RESOLUTION NO. 6134

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Nova Scotia experienced a severe winter storm on November 21^st with many parts of the province receiving more than 30 centimetres of snow; and

Whereas hundreds of pieces of equipment were ready and hundreds of operators responded to snow-clearing needs across the province; and

Whereas I had the opportunity to ride with snowplow operator, Mr. Blair Wood, and see first-hand the extremely adverse conditions he and his fellow operators worked in to remove snow and ice from the 23 kilometres of Nova Scotia roads;

Therefore be it resolved all members of this House offer their recognition and appreciation to the men and women who work so tirelessly day and night to keep our roads safe and clear during the winter.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Nova.

RESOLUTION NO. 6135

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Mr. Keith MacMillan was employed with the provincial Civil Service for 36 years and nine months, constantly striving to ensure that the assistance and benefits were provided by his staff on a constant, fair, transparent and respectful basis; and

[Page 6422]

Whereas Mr. MacMillan, a district manager with the Department of Community Services was responsible for the implementation and delivery of a broad range of social service programs and benefits to clients who were in need of support or financial aid in the eastern region; and

Whereas while filling the role of acting senior district manager for the Department of Community Services, he also adhered to the delivery of services to persons with disabilities and early childhood development programs to his above-noted duties;

Therefore be it resolved the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Mr. Keith MacMillan on his retirement after 36-plus years of dedicated service to the Department of Community Services and wish him a healthy and prosperous retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 6136

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in recent days our Prime Minister has said that he is surprised that we are facing a recession and budgetary deficits; and

Whereas the Premier is in the same boat, believing that our province is six to eight months away from any economic hardship; and

Whereas in the Spring session of this Legislature, I brought forward my concern that this country and this province were headed for hard economic times;

[Page 6423]

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier recognize that our economy is in a difficult position now and that an economic update is needed to properly prepare for the months ahead, Mr. Speaker, always prepare for the worst but hope for the best.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Finance.

RESOLUTION NO. 6137

HON. MICHAEL BAKER: Mr. Speaker, I likewise hope for the best.

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

Whereas Janette Georges of Blockhouse, Nova Scotia, has been spreading her love of music to children through the Kindermusik program for many years; and

Whereas this year Janette has been recognized by Kindermusik International for her dedication to music and has received the title of Maestro in Outreach; and

Whereas this is a significant accomplishment as only 5 per cent of Kindermusik educators around the world are awarded this distinction;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of the House of Assembly congratulate Janette Georges on her recognition by Kindermusik International as Maestro in Outreach and thank her for her devotion to teaching music to young children.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

[Page 6424]

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

RESOLUTION NO. 6138

MS. BECKY KENT: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas bullying in our schools and indeed in our communities continues to cause harm and pain to its citizens and, in particular, to the children of Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Christa Pope, the guidance councillor at Ocean View Elementary School, works with the students and teachers every day to promote peace, respect and kindness for one another through innovative and current anti-bullying programs; and

Whereas Ocean View Elementary School has spent a full week dedicated to the Say No to Bullying Program and wearing pink in support of a Nova Scotia born movement of standing up to bullying;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend students, staff, administration and volunteers of Ocean View Elementary School for the successful delivery of the Say No to Bullying Program and taking an important stand against bullying in their school.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Glace Bay.

[Page 6425]

RESOLUTION NO. 6139

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in a meeting with several economists from Canadian banks and the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council, the Premier was told that a deficit would not be the worst thing that could happen; and

Whereas two weeks ago, the Premier alerted Nova Scotians that we are within $28 million of entering a deficit situation; and

Whereas with the economy is expected to sink even further, the Premier will soon have to decide whether or not he wants to follow in the footsteps of former Premier John Buchanan;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his government stop their wasteful spending habits and avoid putting this province into a deficit situation.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

RESOLUTION NO. 6140

MS. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Sylvia Wist trekked to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro during August 2008 as part of the Arthritis Society's Joints in Motion; and

Whereas Sylvia dedicated many months to personal physical training and significant fundraising in order to achieve her goals in support of persons living with arthritis; and

[Page 6426]

Whereas Sylvia's commitment to healthy communities is also exemplified through her career with the Capital District Health Authority and her volunteer contributions as a long-time member of the Dartmouth Community Health Board;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Sylvia Wist for successfully climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in support of arthritis research, medical training, patient self-help and education, and thank her for her generosity and perseverance.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Preston.

RESOLUTION NO. 6141

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas last Thursday, Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page briefed MPs on challenges the federal government will be facing in the coming years; and

Whereas Page forecasted that unless major policy changes are made, Canada will be looking at a significant deficit for the next two years; and

Whereas while the federal government and other provincial governments are focused on finding solutions to the country's economic trouble, our Premier prefers to keep Nova Scotians in the dark;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier bring forward an economic update before this House rises, allowing Nova Scotians to see just how bad our provincial finances are.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

[Page 6427]

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Halifax Chebucto.

RESOLUTION NO. 6142

MR. HOWARD EPSTEIN: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas for the past 40 years, the Trail Shop has operated as an outdoor equipment store in Halifax Chebucto; and

Whereas the store began as a co-operative which was made up of members Greg Smiley, John Clark and Charlie Wainwright; and

Whereas the store is now owned by Joachim and April Stroink and operated out of the 6210 Quinpool Road location;

Therefore be it resolved that the House congratulate all of the past and present owners of this business and recognize the contribution which the store has made to the commercial history of the Quinpool Road area.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Richmond.

[Page 6428]

RESOLUTION NO. 6143

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Richmond County elected a new municipal council; and

Whereas residents of District 10 re-elected Gail Johnson as their councillor; and

Whereas Councillor Gail Johnson, a former warden of Richmond County who was first elected in 1994, was also chosen by her fellow councillors to serve as deputy warden;

Therefore be it resolved the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Gail Johnson on being re-elected in District 10 and wish her success during her current term on Richmond Municipal Council.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton Nova.

RESOLUTION NO. 6144

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the community of Whitney Pier has long been recognized for being the home of some of the greatest sports heroes in the province; and

Whereas Joe Worrell is one of the greatest fastball players to come from Whitney Pier, contributing to his community as a mentor and a role model to youth, parents and the entire community; and

[Page 6429]

Whereas on September 5, 2008, Joe Worrell was honoured by the community of Whitney Pier for his commitment, dedication and outstanding achievements;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Mr. Joe Worrell for his dedication and commitment to the game of fastball and extend congratulations to him for being honoured by the community of Whitney Pier.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Richmond.

RESOLUTION NO. 6145

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Richmond County elected a new municipal council; and

Whereas residents of District 6 elected Brian Marchand as their new councillor; and

Whereas Brian Marchand, an employee of New Page Corporation in Point Tupper is a lifelong resident of Louisdale, Richmond County;

Therefore be it resolved the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Brian Marchand on being elected in District 6 and wish him success during his current term on Richmond Municipal Council.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

MR. SPEAKER: There has been a request for waiver.

Is it agreed?

[Page 6430]

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

RESOLUTION NO. 6146

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas in these tough economic times Nova Scotians are looking for reassurance that they will be able to weather the storm; and

Whereas throughout the entire House session the Liberal caucus has repeatedly called for an economic update to be tabled, allowing Nova Scotia's elected representatives to bring forward their ideas on how best to deal with this looming economic crisis; and

Whereas it has become painstakingly clear that the Premier and his government have no intentions of dealing with this very important issue;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier explain to Nova Scotians why he feels the state of the Nova Scotia economy is not worth discussing in this House of Assembly.

Mr. Speaker, I request that you table this resolution.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

[12:15 p.m.]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS

MR. SPEAKER: We will now move to Oral Questions Put By Members. The time is 12:15 p.m. and we will go to 1:15 p.m.

The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition

[Page 6431]

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, New Brunswickers are today hearing their government's plans for dealing with the current economic crisis. This brings to eight the number of Premiers who have made sure that the people of their province are updated on the present situation and the foreseeable consequences. This government is a notable exception, so my question for the Premier is, why has the Premier refused to provide Nova Scotians and this House with a budget update during the legislative session, the best time and place to make clear the kind of choices his government will make?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, as I indicated, the government will do so by the end of December, but the best time is when the government has all of the information so that a full picture can be given to the people of Nova Scotia.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, all of the other governments seem to have a clear picture. It's only this government that appears to have a fuzzy one. (Applause) For the first time since the Great Depression, all the major economies are in recession, including Canada. In this province the price for lobster is disastrously low, as an important season starts. The price and demand for newsprint has fallen quickly The credit crunch is threatening wind energy projects that are central to the energy strategy. Deflation is the latest economic concern. People know some hard decisions may be necessary and they would appreciate an early and honest update on the government's plan. My question for the Premier is, faced with this challenge to show leadership, why have you chosen, why have you decided that Nova Scotians should be kept in the dark about the effect of this situation on their province?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, my honourable colleague is incorrect; the government will be giving a statement by the end of December. A couple of other statistics he forgot to mention, the fact that Nova Scotia created over 10,000 new jobs during the past year and the fact that during the month of October, Nova Scotia's unemployment rate was the lowest on record for the month of October.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, the Premier and his colleagues in the last two years have spent hundreds of millions of dollars. They added to the debt without ever seeking the advice or approval of this House. Now they intend to make more important decisions in the privacy of their offices. People who would like to think that the ship of state is in steady hands have watched while this government is unable to even cope with a winter snowstorm.

The Premier has given people little reason to trust his judgment. My question for the Premier is, why does the Premier have so little trust in himself, so little trust in his government, so little trust in the people of Nova Scotia that he will not even provide a timely economic update?

[Page 6432]

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, if I listened to the Leader of the Opposition just a couple of weeks ago when he introduced the bill in this House that would have cost the people of this province $28 million, had it been passed, he would be pushing us toward a deficit. He talks about difficult times, but when it comes down to making tough decisions, the NDP can't make them. This government has made them, will continue to make them, and will continue to make sure that the people's interests are put first and foremost, not politics.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Last week the real truth about the state of the federal government's finances came to light. The Prime Minister misled Canadians throughout the election by stating that he would never run a deficit. Now that the election is over, the federal government has disclosed that the deficit next year could be as high as $13.8 billion. Furthermore, the Minister of Finance stated on the weekend that Canada is headed toward a recession. With the Premier refusing to update this House, we are left wondering, what exactly is the Premier hiding? So my question to the Premier is, what exactly are you hiding?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, if I use what the member has said, he has indicated that the federal government has indicated there is additional information that they're going to be putting forward, and that is information we are quite interested in. So to suggest that we should be doing an economic update before they provide information, I believe we would be doing a disservice to the people of Nova Scotia. So, I concur with the member, we should be taking a look at what that information is before we put out our economic update.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, eight other provinces - one is about to do it next week - the only province in Canada unwilling to trust the people who elected them is this government. This government is afraid to tell Nova Scotians the truth about the finances of this province.

We now have another province providing its citizens with a fiscal update. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced they will be opening their House with an economic update. Newfoundland becomes the eighth province to do so. Eight other Premiers have been open and transparent with their Legislature and their citizens. Eight other Premiers have shown leadership and informed their Assembly on the state of the financial accounts, even in the face of bad news.

There is a significant leadership gap between those provinces and ours and it falls directly on the desk of the Premier. My question to the Premier is, why do you continue with your business as usual approach when these are far from usual times?

[Page 6433]

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I concur with my colleague that these are unusual times when you take a look at what's happening across the world. Nova Scotia is not averse to what is happening. But, at the same time, because of the decisions this government has made in previous years, Nova Scotia is in a better position, I would argue, than many of the other provinces, because of the decisions that we have made.

That being said, I want to make sure we have all of the information to provide a full and accurate picture to the people of Nova Scotia in order to go forward. We will have challenges, we will some tough decisions to make in the coming months, and I hope that my honourable colleagues across the way will be supportive of the decisions government will make in dealing with those challenges.

MR. MCNEIL: Your decision is to be tougher than Alberta with an $8 billion surplus? Your decision is to be tougher? They trusted the people of Alberta to come forward and give them the information. You're unwilling to trust Nova Scotians. A month ago I stood in this House and our caucus called for an emergency debate on the state of the economy and we held out a hand, saying we were prepared to set aside partisan politics to help build a blueprint to where we move this province forward, to help deal with the challenges. We know there are tough decisions to make and we're prepared to stay in this House and help make those decisions. My question to you, Mr. Premier, is, when will you provide Nova Scotians with an update instead of hiding behind the business-as-usual December 31^st date?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I find it incredible that my honourable colleague would want us to present half a picture to the people of Nova Scotia. We want to present a full picture. That may have been the way that previous Liberal budgets were done in the 1990s, but it sure isn't the way this government's going to act.

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

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, this government has a track record for waiting far too long to approve district health authority budgets and business plans. Five health authorities still don't have their budgets approved, eight months into the year. This puts them in a very difficult position as they try to deal with current demands and plan for next year. The Capital District is already $7 million over budget on surgeries alone and the government still has not approved their budget. My question for the Minister of Health is, what's the status of the budget of the Capital District Health Authority?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, there are also five budgets that have been approved, and business plans that have been approved, from the district health authorities. Of course, we work with our districts to make sure they have the most accurate

[Page 6434]

numbers they possibly can have so we can project to a balanced situation at the end of the year. We'll continue to work with those district health authorities to make sure they balance to zero.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, the South Shore District Health Authority is also facing a deficit. The government has also failed to approve its budget. Health providers must make serious decisions about whether to restrict services and how to use alternative service delivery without the benefit of an approved budget. The longer this drags on, the harder it becomes to reduce the anticipated deficits without serious limits on needed health care. My question for the Minister of Health is, when will the Minister of Health finally tell the health authorities how much more or less health care they can provide this year?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, there are a number of those budgets and business plans that are before us for consideration. The member opposite talks about DHA 1, which is of course the South Shore, one that we were concerned with last year that we went forward to do an audit of that district. We are finding a few discrepancies in the dollars that they have provided to us and we're trying to work our way through that mitigation plan with them. We should have their budget online we're hoping within the next month or so.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, the DHAs need their budgets approved. The Auditor General has said that basic to good management is the approval of a budget before the year begins. Nova Scotians need to know what services their hospitals and community clinics can provide. So my question for the Minister of Health is, when will the DHA budgets be approved for 2008 and will it be before April 1^st of next year?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Again, Mr. Speaker, with over five district health authorities' business plans approved, we're still doing some work. I know there are a number of them that are before us that are just waiting to be approved by Cabinet. We will have the rest of them we're hoping on-line by January which is far ahead of where we've been in the past. So this is work that we've been doing, quite a lot of work with the district health authorities. It is a reporting function and one that we continue to work with the district health authorities to make sure we have those.

Mr. Speaker, we also believe in balanced budgets which I'm sure that the members opposite do agree with as well, or maybe they don't, because they don't really seem to understand it.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Official Opposition on a new question.

EMO: COBEQUID PASS CRISIS - RESPONSE COORDINATION

[Page 6435]

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister responsible for the Emergency Management Office. The mission statement of this office is, "To ensure the safety and security of Nova Scotians, their property and environment by providing a prompt and coordinated response to an emergency." Last week when some 1,500 vehicles were left stranded on the Cobequid Pass, 911 calls kept coming in but there was no coordination and no public notice. The Ministers of Emergency Management, and Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal said they were unaware of the scope of the situation. So my question to the minister is this, how many 911 calls does it take for her and her government to become aware of a significant situation?

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the honourable member for raising this issue because it is a very important issue to all Nova Scotians and to those individuals who were stuck on the Cobequid Pass for the hours that they were there. Now, we did have a meeting with the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal and myself and with several of the service providers in that area who were on call that evening and who would have participated in the event; 911 calls come into the 911 call centres across the province. Those individuals, every call that comes in, they send out either the ambulance, the police, whoever needs to go out from that. At the 911 centre, there are risk assessment officers who would look at what was going on at that particular point in time and then that information would be relayed on.

MR. DEXTER: Well, Mr. Speaker, aid and assistance were available. The problem was in the lack of leadership to bring forward a response. Clair Peers, a spokesperson for the Onslow-Belmont Fire Department has said, ". . . if we'd been called, we would've been there to help. Can you imagine these kinds of resources right here - all of our equipment and resources and trained personnel ready to help out in any way - and we didn't even get a call." Mr. Speaker, I've heard similar comments from ATV clubs, from snowmobile clubs, that weren't mobilized either. So my question for the minister is this, why did the Emergency Management Office fail to provide any coordination in response to this weather emergency?

MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I would like to clarify a few things. First, the municipal emergency management coordinator for that area did contact the police department, the RCMP, to see if there was any assistance that could be provided at that point in time and it was felt at that point in time that the services were not needed.

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, when the minister got the keys to her office, she also got the emergency management manual. Her department's manual specifically anticipates winter weather emergencies but their plan was never activated. EMO is supposed to coordinate the provision of provincial resources when an emergency occurs even if a highway is involved. EMO is to assist with analysis and evaluation after an emergency. My question to the minister is, when will the Minister responsible for Emergency Management provide her department's analysis and response to the evident breakdown in Nova Scotia's emergency response system?

[Page 6436]

MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I don't know if the honourable member didn't hear me in the first response. I have sat down with the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal and all the emergency providers who were on the scene, to look at what can be done in the future to make sure that this event, in the event that it would happen again, that people do - I also want to recognize that yes, we have a lot of volunteer organizations in this province that do provide a very valuable service and that is our volunteer fire departments, our ground search and rescue, but we do need to know that there is an event that we can partake in.

[12:30 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cape Breton South.

COM. SERV. - FOSTER CHILDREN: PER DIEM - ADEQUACY

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, my question today is for the Minister of Community Services. On October 28^th, the Federation of Foster Families of Nova Scotia met with the minister. Their main concern was the per diem rate which is currently at $14.46 for children, ages 0 to nine and $21.02 for children over age 10. With rising household costs this money simply isn't enough. The latest increase to the per diem under the previous minister was only 5 per cent, or roughly $1 per day. The chairperson of Families Nova Scotia, Wendell Fraser, has said that this extremely low rate is deterring potential foster parents because they cannot afford to pay all the costs not covered by the per diem. My question to the minister is, will the minister admit this per diem is simply not enough to help and support foster families?

HON. JUDY STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, I thank my honourable colleague for the very important issue that he raises here today. There is no question that the valuable role that our foster families play in this province is, indeed, invaluable. We have a tremendous resource from one end of this province to the other. The efforts that they put forth are truly tireless. I did meet with the federation, as the honourable member has indicated. It was a very honest and open meeting and I look forward to continuing that dialogue.

We've been able to provide an increase to the per diem rate in October, 2006, with that 5 per cent increase and as always, we evaluate it each year and it becomes a budget pressure. I will put it forward this year as a budget pressure for the department as well, Mr. Speaker.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, $1 a day over two years ago simply doesn't cut it. Wendell Fraser has said that any foster parent he has spoken with said that this per diem is simply not enough. With recent power hikes, rising food costs and other expenses this per diem must be raised to be comparable to other provinces and be adjusted with

[Page 6437]

inflation on a continuous basis. Further, the per diem is only one of the funding shortfalls foster parents face. Mr. Fraser has said it has been 20 years since there has been an adjustment to the clothing allowance. My question to the minister is, Madam Minister, will your government commit to raising the per diem so that foster parents like Wendell Fraser can continue the wonderful work they are doing to help foster children?

[Page 6438]

MS. STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, again to my honourable colleague, there's no question that the challenges foster families face with the rising costs are very real and, again, that's exactly why I will include the per diem increase as a budgetary pressure and request during the budgetary process. I would like to indicate that the Nova Scotia rates are within the national average and that's an important fact to note. As well, there's a variety of expenses that are covered and though we all recognize that the challenges are very real, we were able to provide the increase in the mileage rate last year. Again, each year we attempt to do the best we can within the budgetary process and we will put the pressures forward for this year.

MR. MANNING MACDONALD: Again, Mr. Speaker, no increase in the clothing allowance for 20 years and $1 a day increase since the past two years. With the holiday season approaching, foster children across this province deserve to enjoy this time of year with their families. Foster parents like Wendell Fraser seek to make the holiday season as special as they can but, again, the government provides too little assistance. The holiday allowance ranges from $125 to $150, depending on the age of the children. This is not nearly enough for a family to provide a holiday meal and gifts for children who truly deserve them. My question to the minister is, will the government provide additional support during the holiday season?

MS. STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, again to my honourable colleague, the issue regarding the foster families is, indeed, one that we take very seriously. We are, as we say, within the national averages. We were able to provide an increase in the mileage rate last year. We will continue to put forward the pressures that the Federation of Foster Families has put forward as a budgetary pressure, and we do recognize the tremendous work that they do from one end of this province to the other on behalf of the families and the children in need.

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

TIR - SNOW REMOVAL: SERV. LEVEL - DIFFERENCE EXPLAIN

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. This past weekend was extremely frustrating for many Nova Scotians. It was also a busy one for this MLA, as I received over 150 telephone calls concerning snow removal road conditions in the constituency of Timberlea-Prospect. Of those calls, a handful came from constituents who live within the so-called "core area of the HRM", while others from the Prospect, Tantallon, and Hubley areas waited for almost two days, not the identifiable 24 hours, as the department suggests; 48 hours they waited for snow removal. I will table a sample of some of the e-mails from the frustrated residents that I am fortunate enough to represent.

[Page 6439]

Mr. Minister, why is there a difference in the service level for snow removal between those HRM roads and streets and those streets and roads that the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal provincially is responsible for?

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank the member opposite for the question, a very good question, and to say that there is a protocol in place in regard to snow clearing - the department does have policies in regard to identifying major arteries first and so on down through the trunks and routes and so on, there's no question about that. We're also contracted to do work.

I think that all members in this House would agree that transportation employees right across the Province of Nova Scotia do a tremendous job. We would have nearly 1,000 employees with over 400 vehicles on the road in all types of weather conditions. If there are specific questions or issues around a specific area, I would encourage the honourable member to direct it to the local area manager for answers. If he doesn't get the answers, certainly within my department I would attempt to get those answers for him. I do want to go on the record, Mr. Speaker, as saying that I believe transportation employees across this province do a fabulous job on behalf of Nova Scotians.

MR. ESTABROOKS: I guess that's why I get all the calls. From reports in the media - and I'll table The ChronicleHerald's story of Sunday, November 23^rd - snowplows at the Beechville base were " . . . ready and waiting for use, but there was no one to operate them because contracts for plowing don't start until Nov. 30^th." It's reported that equipment sat in those government garages - not out on the road where they should be - because no operators were available to get behind the wheel and operate them in such a professional manner that they do. Mr. Minister, you reassured Nova Scotians after last week's Cobequid impasse, that you would be ready, that we would be ready, and that the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, for which you are responsible, would be ready. Why weren't the necessary plow operators in place and ready for that last weekend's snowstorm?

MR. SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, again I thank the member opposite for a good question. Certainly as a result of what happened, has happened over the past week, I've initiated a review for several reasons, one of which is actually our snowplow season. Traditionally we've had a 16-week season, which was actually stepped up and made a week earlier this year, but I've committed to that review that we may possibly look at making our winter season begin earlier. I think we'd all have to agree that no one can plan for these types of storms, but we have to ensure that we plan as best we can, and that may mean in the future that we make our winter season arrive earlier than it has been in the past few years.

MR. ESTABROOKS: I'd like to bring to the attention of the members opposite a memo of October 7^th. My good friend and neighbour, Peter Coade, will be impressed with this memo because of the CBC News and, as the CBC weatherman will attest, we can have winter any time of the year in this province. On October 7^th, a memo was sent out from Roy

[Page 6440]

MacDonald concerning winter's start date. Officially, according to Mr. MacDonald, winter starts in Nova Scotia on November 30^th. Old man winter is not going to wait for that memo. Old man winter will arrive when he wants to arrive. That was the case and we again were not ready. What guarantees, Mr. Minister, what lessons have you learned? Will there be a further repeat of this really terrible service throughout Nova Scotia when it comes to snow removal because my constituents are concerned as are other Nova Scotians, and as is Peter Coade, I would assume?

MR. SCOTT: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I again thank the member for the question. I think that for every story that someone brings before the House, I could probably bring another story of positive comments I have received not only from constituents of mine but people from other parts of the province, in fact outside of Nova Scotia. So I think it's a disservice to the people who provide the service to bring into question (Interruption)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please.

The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal has the floor.

Order, please.

AN HON. MEMBER: You're not going to sit down, are you?

MR. SCOTT: Yes, and not unless the Speaker tells me to. I do believe that I've already said that we're going to review our policy in regard to the winter season. I agree totally we need to do that. We are doing that now. (Interruption) I've got half an hour, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: If you want to hear the answer, you've got to give the guy a chance to answer it.

The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal has the floor.

MR. SCOTT: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think if the honourable members opposite would read the papers and listen to the media, I have never once avoided taking responsibility over the past week. (Applause) We've initiated a lot of things over the last few days, and one of which I've said very clearly will be a review in regard to when the winter season officially within my department starts each year in Nova Scotia.

Again, you know, in this province we've had different weather conditions when seasons have changed. The department would absolutely try within the means of its budget to determine when best to provide that service. Now, every time we come in the House the members opposite spend those dollars that we have in a thousand different ways but I take

[Page 6441]

this very seriously, this is about safety for Nova Scotians. I've committed to that review and I will tell you this government and this department will do the right thing.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Halifax Fairview.

ENVIRON.: CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY - RELEASE

MR. GRAHAM STEELE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Acting Minister of Environment. In 1999, the minister's former colleague, then Minister of Natural Resources, announced consultations on the development of a climate change strategy for Nova Scotia - no strategy emerged. In 2000, the Ministers of Natural Resources, and Environment and Labour said that Nova Scotia would work with the federal government and other provinces in moving forward on climate change - no strategy emerged. In 2001, then-Finance Minister, the Honourable Neil LeBlanc, boasted in his Budget Address that a strategy to address climate change was in development - no strategy emerged. My question for the Acting Minister of Environment is, where is this government's climate change strategy?

HON. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, to the critic opposite, I would suggest that the climate action change is a work in progress and the Department of Environment is working diligently on that file. When we bring it forward, we will bring it forward in a way that Nova Scotians will appreciate and support.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, in 2002 Gordon Balser, Minister of Energy, said his department was in charge of the provincial climate change strategy; the problem was nobody except his department knew that it existed. In 2005, another Minister of Energy released a so-called Green Energy Framework and recognized the obvious by saying: Greenhouse gases are widely believed to be the cause of climate change. But that was not a strategy. In 2006 Conserve Nova Scotia was created partly to help the government develop a strategy - no strategy has emerged.

On October 22, 2007, yet another Minister of Energy said that the climate change strategy would be ready in Spring 2008, but still no strategy emerged. My question for the acting minister is, where is this government's climate change strategy?

MR. TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier to the critic across the floor, that the climate change strategy is a work in progress. We are consulting with the stakeholders, we have been consulting with the stakeholders, we're going to continue doing that. We believe that it's responsible to work with the stakeholders. We're not going to come in with the hammer, we're going to work with them and get it right. The NDP way is not the Nova Scotia way.

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, in Spring 2008, the Minister of Environment said the climate change strategy would be ready in the Fall. Last week, 1,500 cars were caught for 16 hours in a blizzard. I spent the weekend shovelling 30 centimetres of snow off my driveway.

[Page 6442]

Mr. Speaker, today I got a Christmas card from you. I have a message for the government - Fall is over. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order. I would ask the honourable member to focus on his question, please.

[12:45 p.m.]

MR. STEELE: Mr. Speaker, my question for the Acting Minister of Environment is, where is the climate change strategy?

MR. TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, the critic opposite is complaining about shovelling snow off his doorstep. Out in the country, we like to help some young people out and hire some able-bodied people. Perhaps the honourable member, if he's complaining about shovelling snow, should look within his constituency. Maybe there's a young person, or maybe a person of any age who needs a little job, and perhaps he should put them to work.

The climate change strategy is a work in progress and we are consulting with the stakeholders and we will be coming forward with the strategy in the fullness of time.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Digby-Annapolis.

TCH: WORLD TRADE & CONVENTION CTR. - REPLACE

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, I believe we're getting into the Christmas spirit in here. Thank you for the Christmas card. (Applause) My question is for the Premier. In March of this year, the province announced they were seeking proposals from developers to replace the World Trade and Convention Centre. Now with the Premier's new-found interest in downtown Halifax development, it's strange that he would pick fights with HRM rather than focus on one that is under provincial tender. My question to the Premier is, if you're so interested in downtown development, why not advance the process for a new World Trade and Convention Centre?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, we have been working very closely with the city with respect to taking a look at the potential opportunities for convention space. Indeed, with additional convention space, we could see more conventions being held here and larger conventions, which will bring more dollars here to the city and for the province. That work is ongoing with the city. At the same time, that does not mean when we have a disagreement with any other level of government, we will not stand up for what is right for the people of this province.

MR. THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, Canadian Conventions Organization estimates that convention delegates spend up to four times more money than tourists do daily. The current

[Page 6443]

centre has been successfully winning convention business for the past 25 years and the local hospitality business has benefited from it. Tourism, is extremely important to the Province of Nova Scotia, yet we've seen the number of visitors to our province decline drastically under this government. My question to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage is, have you lobbied your Premier to speed up this process to help our ailing tourism industry?

HON. WILLIAM DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question. Once again he brings attention to the issue. To be frank with him, the answer to the question is, yes, we work together here as a team. The importance of Nova Scotia moving forward is an important issue for this government.

MR. THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, Toronto, Ottawa and Vancouver have already built, or are in the process of building, larger convention centres. A new convention centre in Halifax is a prime example of a strategic infrastructure that would have positive economic spinoffs for the entire province. My question to the minister is, Halifax is a major city in Atlantic Canada and with tourism being so important to Nova Scotia, why aren't we moving faster towards this new convention centre?

MR. DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to inform the folks of the House and all Nova Scotians that we're moving as fast as possible. There is a process that we have to adhere to and we're doing the appropriate investigation and research on the security of actually putting a new convention place in Halifax.

Mr. Speaker, we must understand that Halifax, being the capital of the province, the majority of visitors and tourists come and visit the capital cities. So we're very pleased to move forward as quickly as possible.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou West.

NAT. RES.: MOTORISTS - DEER AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

MR. CHARLES PARKER: Mr. Speaker, my question through you is to the Minister of Natural Resources. In Lunenburg, Colchester, Pictou and part of Halifax County, it seems that if someone hasn't hit a deer with their vehicle, they certainly know somebody who has. In the last eight years there were approximately 15,000 collisions with deer. Many accidents occur in July, when the fawns become mobile and in November, when deer are in rut.

This minister's chief response is to increase the deer bag limit, so my question through you to the minister is, why doesn't the minister have an awareness program every July and November, to remind motorists of the danger of deer on the roads and what they can do to help prevent a collision?

[Page 6444]

HON. DAVID MORSE: Mr. Speaker, I thank the honourable member for bringing up the question. This is something that has been brought forward to me by actually a number of organizations, including municipalities, looking for an increase in the harvest. We've, of course, worked with them and accommodated them.

It is true that mild winters, which are the main determinant of the deer population, have led to an increase in the herd numbers. We also work with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal who, of course, have responsibility for the roads and strategically locating signs and urging motorists to exercise caution in areas where there are known to be high deer numbers.

MR. PARKER: Mr. Speaker, the Manitoba Government Web site offers warnings to motorists telling them to be vigilant during dawn and dusk when deer like to feed. It warns them that if one deer crosses, certainly another one could be right behind. The minister has little information on the site, other than a couple of advisories from 2007.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member for Pictou West has the floor.

MR. PARKER: Mr. Speaker, the department's Web site has little information about warnings about deer, other than a couple of advisories from 2007. Other safety options for this government include better pruning of shrubs or bushes near the roads. Last year, 1,960 accidents and this year it is expected to be even higher. Doesn't the Minister of Natural Resources think it's high time for him to take a leadership role in helping to reduce the number of deer collisions in Nova Scotia?

MR. MORSE; Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the member bringing forward that another province has put information on the Internet to warn motorists of this. In Nova Scotia, using a cell phone, or a handheld cell phone, or reading a Web site while you are driving is not considered to be prudent behaviour on the road and we encourage people not to do that while they're driving or we'll really have a lot of accidents.

MR. PARKER: Well, Mr. Speaker, in the last two years, there were nearly 4,000 deer, 130 bears and 54 moose struck by cars in this province. The sheer number of collisions with deer and other animals and the extensive damage caused by the collisions should have prompted this minister to act sooner. I think the minister should have investigated an awareness campaign during July and November, to remind people of the dangers and provide defensive driving advice. My question is, will the minister take these, or any steps, to help reduce the number of large animal and car collisions?

MR. MORSE: Yes and this is a serious matter, it is one that has been discussed with various organizations and, indeed, municipalities across the province. As the member opposite has acknowledged, we have increased the harvest numbers in those areas where

[Page 6445]

there is a high herd population. Specifically in 2A, which is the Lunenburg County area, we've doubled the number of deer that can be taken. We're trying to get a focus on the antlerless deer, in other words cut down the number of does to reduce their reproductive ability so that we can address this problem.

The member is right, depending on the time of year there can be as many as six deer-motor vehicle accident collisions a day, that is a big number. It has been very welcome that the municipalities have come and worked with us on trying to solve this problem and we will continue to work with them.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

EDUC.: TRI-CO. SCH. BD. - FUNDING

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, last month the minister held several meetings to explain the Hogg formula to the Tri-County Regional School Board. The minister said that the funding formula was fair, but implied that the Tri-County Regional School Board should not have issues with the level of funding they received. The lack of funding for the Tri-County Regional School Board is not an issue of fairness, the issue is simply that Tri-County does not have enough money to operate given their unique circumstances. My question to the minister is, will the government admit to the funding shortfall for the Tri-County Regional School Board and provide adequate funding?

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, to the member opposite who I know understands education and funding formulas very well, I do want to respond to the question. It is no secret I believe that the Tri-County Regional School Board has made an attempt to inform most people in Nova Scotia that they are not getting adequate funding. That has prompted us at the department to make sure that we provide all municipal councils and anyone who is interested - including MLAs who have received this information - that the Hogg formula has been applied fairly. We have gone through in detail to look at whether any component of that had disadvantaged students in Tri-County and we're satisfied that it did not disadvantage any student in Tri-County.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I'm not convinced and I think a couple of her own ministers aren't either. School board members from across the province have said that we can't have one of our members at a lower level when it comes to the quality of education delivered to Nova Scotia students. Further, school board members have said that if you have to take money from somewhere else to make sure quality is maintained across all school boards, that's what you should be doing. Tri-County Regional School Board has the lowest performance on assessment testing in the province. More funding is needed to ensure there are more teachers and resources to improve test results. My question to the minister is, why won't the government acknowledge tri-county's funding shortfall and ensure adequate levels of funding so that they may be better equipped to provide for their students?

[Page 6446]

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, part of our review of the issue at Tri-County and their concerns was to look at the funding that has gone to that board over the last number of years. I am pleased to announce that even in the face of declining enrollment, the allocation of funding to that particular board increased $2.6 million this year over last.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, four years ago the Nova Scotia School Boards Association requested $150 million above inflation over five years to ensure our schools were receiving comparable funding to those in other provinces. Your government started to reach that goal several years ago, but for the last two years school boards have not been receiving their money. There is clearly a problem with inadequate funding, Madam Minister, and your decision to commission Lloyd Gillis to look at the funding shortfall in Tri-County speaks to that fact. My question to the minister is, will the minister commit to providing the additional funding they promised several years ago, in order to ensure all schools can provide quality education for students?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, when the Tri-County folks came to us with some concerns about their funding we wanted to offer assistance and we did that. We put a team of three of our employees in to work with the Tri-County board to see if we could identify some areas of concern. Following that, we hired, as has been mentioned, Lloyd Gillis to work as a consultant with that board and are anxiously awaiting the report from Mr. Gillis, but what we're finding is that it may not be the allocation of funding, it may be the use of the funds that are the real cause.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

MS. MARILYN MORE: My question is for the Minister of Volunteerism. Mr. Speaker, communities are looking more and more to volunteers to help provide basic services but many volunteer sector organizations face financial burdens imposed by the necessity of providing proper insurance coverage. Whether the volunteers are raffling tickets in a mall or on a search and rescue mission, insurance is a necessity. So to the minister, what progress has your department made in helping the volunteer sector with its insurance needs?

[1:00 p.m.]

HON. BARRY BARNET: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to tell the member that we are very close to having a program that we can deliver to the Nova Scotia volunteer sector. It's important to this government. We've been working on this for some time and we will bring forth a program that will be effective and will meet the needs of the volunteer groups in Nova Scotia.

[Page 6447]

MS. MORE: Well, this minister has been giving me that reassurance as I asked this question for the last two years and we still haven't had any action. The Hamm Government knew how to do it. Six years ago the trails associations and other groups were facing insurance premium hikes of 300 per cent to 600 per cent. The government at that time recognized that walking trails supported the tourism industry and were an important part of an active lifestyle that delivered health benefits. When will the minister accept that other volunteer organizations are an important part of the social fabric of all communities and help to reduce their insurance premiums?

MR. BARNET: Mr. Speaker, as I have said to my first question, we are very close to having a program that we can deliver across the province. There is a fundamental difference between the members on this side and the members on that side. On this side we believe in the private marketplace; on that side, in the insurance industry, they want to publicize the entire industry. (Interruptions) Nationalize, that's the word, nationalize the entire industry.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

MR. BARNET: Mr. Speaker, we will continue to work with the volunteer sector to provide the programs and services they need to assist Nova Scotians. We take very seriously the responsibility that we have here in Nova Scotia as the minister responsible for volunteers.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, the volunteer sector has been struggling for years and this government certainly knows that. During the latest public policy forum hosted by Recreation Nova Scotia, 70 member groups cited insurance premiums as the number one stress on volunteer groups. Not only affordability but availability of liability insurance is a big problem. Can the minister give us a date when volunteer groups can expect decisive action to help keep their insurance premiums in check?

MR. BARNET: Well, Mr. Speaker, as I said in my earlier answers, we are very close to bringing forward a program that we will be able to deliver across the province. It's an issue that has been brought to our attention and we have a plan to address it, unlike the members opposite. I believe our plan will be both effective and will be affordable and have utility that will provide service to the volunteer sector across this province and is one that will provide good service to all Nova Scotians.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley on a new question.

MS. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Health. Advances in acute care mean that people are now surviving with massive brain injuries who

[Page 6448]

wouldn't have 15 to 20 years ago. Services for Nova Scotians with brain injuries, however, are incredibly limited and not meeting the need, especially outside of metro. People need day programs, home care and long-term rehabilitation services. My question to the minister is, when will your government establish province-wide services for Nova Scotians with acquired brain injuries?

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, acquired brain injury is one that is contained within the Continuing Care Strategy, one that has a later start date than some of the other initiatives that we've been trying to bring forward. As an interim step we have funded the seats at Peter's Place to help those individuals who have acquired brain injury.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, five people a day suffer a brain injury. There have been close to 9,000 new cases over the past six years. The Department of Community Services has funding programs but the income cut-offs are too low. The Department of Health has a self-managed care program but the individual must be able to manage their own care, they can't have a family member help them, which excludes many people with brain injuries. People with acquired brain injuries are falling through the cracks every single day in this province. My question to the Minister of Health is, when will you change funding requirements so that Nova Scotians with an acquired brain injury are not left to fend for themselves?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, the Continuing Care Strategy has been one that's been focused on the adding of long-term care beds in the province to help our seniors and those people who need that extra amount of service to live out their lives. We have done a tremendous amount of work - around $260 million worth of investment in other home care and other programs around the province. Many of those brain-injured individuals are covered under those programs but we will be focusing more specifically on acquired brain injury, I believe, it's year five of the 10-year Continuing Care Strategy.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, while brain injury survivors and their families disagree with the minister, they're telling us that there's too little, too slowly. I just want to re-emphasize again that brain injuries are for life. After an individual with a brain injury leaves rehabilitation and returns home, they still require programs and services but cannot access them. My question to the Minister of Health is, when will you ensure that Nova Scotians in all areas of the province can access services for acquired brain injuries as soon as possible?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, as I said to the member opposite, this is an issue that has been identified in the Continuing Care Strategy. As she knows, we put forward the 10-year Continuing Care Strategy, I believe we're on year three at this point. We had allotted some extra services to be added to our continuing care system, I believe after year five, for acquired brain injuries. We have looked at the issue, we have a plan, we have one that makes sense for Nova Scotians.

[Page 6449]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

MR. KEITH COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. In September the Committee on Human Resources heard from representatives of the Black Cultural Centre. The centre is requesting funds so that they can keep operating. The committee voted unanimously to send a letter to the minister requesting funding. It is imperative that they receive funds this year so that they can keep operating. My question is, has the minister considered the funding for the centre and sent a letter of reply?

HON. WILLIAM DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, I have received the letter and have taken it under consideration. Thank you.

MR. COLWELL: Mr. Speaker, the Black Cultural Centre began 25 years ago and was funded to the tune of $260,000 per year from the province. Today it receives $190,000 from the province. There has been a funding cut of $70,000 and when inflation is considered, funding is down over 50 per cent, creating a $192,000 per year shortfall. As the president of the centre put it, the government considers its value to the province as down by more than 50 per cent. The centre was born out of a community that has gone through great struggles, and yet the accomplishments of the Black community are incredible.

There is no question that the Black Cultural Centre needs immediate funding to address operational, maintenance and infrastructure concerns. Without a commitment to provide funding before the end of the fiscal year, the centre will face great difficulty. My question is, will he commit to funding for this fiscal year to address this serious financial concern?

MR. DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, as I said in response earlier, I did receive the request. I appreciate the hard work of the community and the Black Cultural Centre on the Eastern Shore and I thank the member across the way for his question.

I think it would only be appropriate, not only did I receive the request, but immediately sent staff out to address the serious problem that he brings up here today. I would like to inform the member across the way, Mr. Speaker, in the spirit of that request and understanding the importance of the cultural community, I have already approved a $40,000 allocation to carry on until they are able to meet the appropriate budgetary request. Thank you very much. (Applause)

MR. COLWELL: I am pleased to hear that the minister has provided a shortfall, $40,000 for the centre, but that simply is not enough. The minister needs to address the immediate funding concerns. The Human Resources Committee requested long-term funding to all three allotted to the centre. A continuous, stable source of funding is necessary to

[Page 6450]

maintain the centre and help it expand. There is great demand for the work that it does but there are simply not enough resources.

The minister has failed to fund the centre adequately and there is no other centre in the country such as the Black Cultural Centre, representing Black culture in this province, or in this country, indeed. With tourism numbers down, the minister should be helping this unique institution, rather than cutting its funding. Establishing the centre as a museum would help promote tourism in this area but the minister has done nothing to champion this cause. What will be done to address funding cuts . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Question, please.

MR. COLWELL: What will be done to address funding cuts and the continuing funding shortfalls that face the Black Cultural Centre?

MR. DOOKS: Mr. Speaker, this government recently had doubled the cultural and arts budget over the next three years, which allocates over $8 million in regard to the cultural community. I had said in a previous question that this minister did take that request seriously. I instructed staff to go immediately to the centre because we value the works of the volunteers of that centre. We value the Black Cultural Centre and what it stands for in the Province of Nova Scotia.

I also instructed staff to tell the committee that they could forward their requests in regard to a budgetary issue, but immediately I allocated $40,000 to that centre. The response back was that they were very satisfied with the quick response of this minister and that they thanked this government for taking their concerns seriously. I have not received any negative comments from that centre in regard to the money not being enough.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Cape Breton Nova.

MR. GORDON GOSSE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question through you is to the Minister of Community Services. Karen Ayre and her daughter are worried about their health because of the mice and mould in her house, which is in the Cape Breton Island Housing Authority. Karen has fibromyalgia and her daughter has asthma, so a house full of mould and mice droppings is a health hazard. They lived in the Cape Breton Island Housing Authority duplex for five years before the housing authority tested the air on September 17^th and immediately moved them out.

My question through you, Mr. Speaker, is what safeguards are in place to ensure that public housing is maintained to the minimum health standards?

[Page 6451]

HON. JUDY STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, to my honourable colleague across the way, I know that he raises this issue out of concern for his constituents. We take very seriously the health issues that the honourable member has brought forward today. We want to ensure that not only do we continue to provide safe and adequate housing, when possible, across the province to those who come to us, but that safe and adequate housing is also of a quality that is representative of the requests that come in. So we take very seriously the health issues that are raised, the health issue that my colleague raised here today. We ensure that we work with the housing authorities from one end of the province to the other, to make sure that all health concerns are dealt with and addressed, and we will continue to do that in the days to come.

MR. GOSSE: Mr. Speaker, I'd like to table some photos that clearly show mould and mice droppings in the newly renovated duplex. For six weeks the mother and daughter bunked with family and friends while renovations were being completed. While they were away from that building their health recovered but, since moving back in, Karen's fibromyalgia has flared up again and her daughter has been hospitalized more than once with respiratory problems. The units along this street are failing and are in poor condition. My question to the Minister of Community Services is, what does a person living in public housing have to do to ensure the units they are living in are habitable?

MS. STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, I thank my honourable colleague across the way for his very important question. Again, we take the issues of housing very seriously . . .

[1:15 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The time allotted for the Oral Question Period has expired.

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of the business, Public Bills for Second Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR SECOND READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill. No. 238.

Bill No. 238 - Motor Vehicle Act.

[Page 6452]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to rise today as I bring forward an amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act and to actually move second reading. The legislation that I've introduced, and we'll be talking about here in the House today, will bring stronger consequences for people across this province who are caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .05.

Apparently the law in this province, and the situation as it is now, people who were requested to blow and would blow between .05 and .08 on a roadside alcohol screening test receive a 24-hour licence suspension. I would like to say this does happen much too frequently across this province. The amendment that's being introduced and discussed here today will increase the suspension time period for anybody caught in Nova Scotia in violation of this Motor Vehicle Act charge.

With this legislation, licence suspensions will increase to seven days for a first offence, for a first suspension; 15 days for a second; and 30 days for the third and subsequent incidents. People will also be required to pay a licence reinstatement fee of $85.40, something that was not required under the previous 24-hour suspension.

I think everybody in this House would agree, and I think all Nova Scotians would agree, impaired driving is the leading cause of vehicle collision fatalities and injuries in Nova Scotia. In fact, impaired driving took 32 lives of Nova Scotians in 2007. Again, I think we would all agree that is far too many.

Evidence indicates that drinking and driving with a low blood alcohol content poses a significant risk to all road users. As part of the province's impaired driving strategy, it has been recommended that Nova Scotia's current low blood alcohol content roadside suspensions be revised to reflect longer suspension times to reflect the severity of this action. The Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators, Canada's national road safety coordinator, has also recommended longer suspensions for .05 blood alcohol content.

This legislation is part of several legislative enforcement and awareness initiatives to fight impaired driving in our province. Some of these include an alcohol ignition interlock program, which we announced and is being prepared now, and as well the integrated impaired driving enforcement unit. This unit, which was piloted in southwestern Nova Scotia, has achieved remarkable results with regard to their enforcement. Let me tell you, as of a couple of weeks ago, approximately 100 people since last December, just in this unit alone, were charged with impaired driving.

I can only imagine the devastation that could be caused throughout the province with regard to lives as a result of the actions if people continue to drink and drive. This

[Page 6453]

amendment today, along with other initiatives we have undertaken, will send a strong message that impaired driving will not be tolerated in the Province of Nova Scotia.

Recently I had the opportunity and privilege to participate in the Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims at J.L. Ilsley High School. Seeing the passion for road safety in young people to me was very encouraging.

I think we would agree that we all have the power and ability to make decisions that can save lives and choosing not to drink and drive is one of those very important decisions. We have the responsibility to reduce the risk to all drivers when an impaired driver makes the wrong decision. This legislation supports our collective efforts to prevent alcohol-related tragedies and the lasting impact they have on those lives left behind.

Mr. Speaker, I would just like to speak for a moment, if I could, about my experience as a former police officer and some of the things I've seen over the years. Young people or old alike, on many occasions make that wrong decision. For anyone who has been in law enforcement in this province or in fact across the country who has had the very unfortunate duty of delivering bad news, which I had to do myself on many occasions, to deliver news to families that either their loved one had chosen to drink or drive and as a result lost their own life or worse, had taken someone else's life - I can tell you, to deliver that type of message to a family is most difficult and one that no one looks forward to having to do.

Yesterday when we did the bill briefing on this across the street, in attendance were police who support very much this bill that I've had the occasion to speak to and have told me that they support this Motor Vehicle Act change. Also there were other people in attendance, but there are two very important people that I want to talk about for a moment if I could. Those people were Margaret Miller and Susan MacAskill. Of course, Margaret Miller is the national president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving here in Canada.

We're very proud that Margaret Miller is leading this organization nationally but, unfortunately, both Margaret Miller and Susan MacAskill have had a tragic loss of life in their families as a result of impaired drivers, that's why they've taken up this cause. Margaret Miller lost a son, his name was Bruce Miller. I never had the opportunity to work with him, but Bruce was a young police officer in the Town of Springhill. He actually started there after I had left, but in talking with the people that he would have worked with there, the other officers and especially the Chief of Police, Gary Copeland, I understand that Bruce was one of the most promising police officers who ever started to work and put a uniform on in that department.

The chief told me that on many occasions that this young man had a real zealous feeling toward the community, toward its young people and had so much promise. He was making a real impact on the community that really looked forward to this young man being there for many years. In fact, you know, everyone had hoped he would stay there, settle there,

[Page 6454]

obviously get married and raise a family there, and put his whole career in policing that community. Unfortunately, that wasn't to be. Bruce and a fellow friend were in P.E.I., something non-related to his duties and, as a result of a decision of someone else to drink and drive, Bruce was killed on the highway.

I've had the opportunity to attend many occasions where Margaret Miller is speaking on behalf of MADD, but more than that she would relate the story of her son and what it was like to receive the news that he had been involved in a motor vehicle accident, in fact attended the hospital, to be met by his colleagues and to be told that there was nothing they could do for Bruce, that he wouldn't survive. As I listen, every time I hear Margaret tell the story of her son, I can only imagine how many times that story is told across this country and how devastating it is for a mother to have to receive the news that her son has been killed as a result of an impaired driver.

I know the story with Susan MacAskill is the same with a relative - I believe it was her dad. She and her brother are very involved with the MADD organization and we owe a great deal of gratitude in this House and in this province for people like them who are willing to take up the challenge to see change when it comes to laws in our province. I meet with Margaret Miller and talk to her quite often and they continually push us as legislators to make changes that will discourage those who would decide to drink and drive on our highways, so we need to listen to them. I know that Margaret has told me that she very much supports these amendments, that she very much appreciates the fact that it's before the House, and I've told her that I'm confident that both sides of this House will support this motor vehicle amendment that I've heard discussion about over the last day or so.

Mr. Speaker, it is incumbent upon us as legislators to put aside politics and partisan politics when it comes to something like this and I believe the members on the opposite would agree that we have the opportunity to save someone's life, maybe unknown to us at this time, but if we collectively work together to ensure that the laws of this province reflect the will of the people of Nova Scotia, which I believe is to discourage impaired driving as much as we possibly can, whether it is through education, enforcement or, as we are here today, through legislation. I'm sure that we can accomplish that.

Margaret Miller says that her goal is to eliminate impaired driving completely. She has spoken across Canada about it. She has gone to schools and talked to young people, trying to encourage them and I think we need to offer as much support as we can to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, but especially to send a strong message here in this province that we will not tolerate impaired driving on our roads.

I look forward to comments from the members opposite. I know some of my own colleagues want to make some comments, as well, about this Motor Vehicle Act amendment. I know that I've had an opportunity to discuss this with some of my colleagues, both on this side and opposite. I look forward to hearing comments today, if there are other ways we can

[Page 6455]

strengthen this, but I would also ask that - this is late in the session, I know that, unfortunately it is near the end of the session to see a bill being brought forward, there's nothing I'd like to see any more than the will of this House to put this bill through as fast as we possibly can.

I understand this may not be possible because of the process, but I appreciate yesterday, the honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect, I know, was at the bill briefing and I know he feels very strongly as a former educator about impaired driving and what we can do and should do in this province. I want to thank him for attending. I know all of us here have families, children, that we want to ensure the roads are as safe as possible and one way we can do it is by removing impaired drivers from our highways. Police are asking for this, MADD is asking for this, and I believe all Nova Scotians expect us to do all we possibly can to ensure our highways are as safe as possible.

The Motor Vehicle Act amendment today is just another piece, as Chief Beazley said yesterday, another tool, to ensure we can make our highways as safe as possible. It does support legislation, enforcement and other educational programs that we've adopted over the last few years in this province. I thank you for the opportunity to speak on this and I move second reading of Bill No. 238.

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

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: I would like to make a few comments on this proposed amendment. It is always a pleasure to be in the presence of people such as Ms. Miller. Anyone involved with MADD, of course, and their personal commitment is exemplary for sure. We are all aware of cases in our communities, tragedies, and every tragedy we can avert as legislators is something we are fully going to support indeed.

More importantly, the timing of this particular piece of legislation, the Christmas season is soon upon us, unfortunately there are some occasions where there are some bad decisions, some tragic decisions made by drivers. You know, the Christmas message I always send out, seasons greetings and merry Christmas from my family, but please drive responsibly.

The concern we have, of course, and let's point it out as it is - this House opened on October 30^th. This is an important piece of legislation, we've dealt with a crowded agenda, for sure, but I look at some of the bills that have been brought forward by this side of the House and by members on that side. They certainly don't have the consequences this piece of legislation has. This is an important piece of legislation that will send a clear message to Nova Scotians.

My question, rhetorically asked, and I know question period is not with us any more today, thankfully, I understand, my question is, if this is such - I understand completely - an

[Page 6456]

important piece of legislation, why wasn't this brought forward on October 30^th, the first day we sat in this House? Because MADD has been behind this particular change for a long time. We all have been lobbied - if that's the appropriate expression to use in Ms. Miller's situation - we've all been very well aware of the fact that MADD has been pushing for these changes and it seems to me it would be a fairly straightforward piece of legislation that could have been brought forward.

Of course, what happens in this House, and how things work in this esteemed Legislature - when we discuss the bill first on the floor and everyone has their opportunity to have their intervention and their comments, we then take it to Law Amendments Committee. At Law Amendments Committee there is a wonderful opportunity, it's a unique one in this country, as you know, Mr. Speaker, it's a committee where average, ordinary Nova Scotians of any merit, of any background, can step forward and have their particular say.

I'm sure that when Law Amendments Committee meets on this particular piece of legislation, that will be a piece of legislation that hopefully all Nova Scotians will support, not just the police force, not just MADD, but average, ordinary Nova Scotians who are aware it is no longer socially acceptable - not that it ever was - to take a couple of drinks and get behind the wheel of a vehicle, but that, because of the process we have in this House, is not going to happen.

It was an interesting question that was brought forward by a member of the media at that time. It was asked, you know, even if this was rushed to Law Amendments Committee with no input from the public and brought back here and the House said on Third Reading, let's bring it forward, let's have it at Committee of the Whole, let's see if we can get it into place - one of the members of the minister's staff at that time answered the question, this would not be possible to be a law by the time the Christmas season is upon us. That was a question of some significance.

So I know we have a crowded agenda and I know we have a lot of issues and I know we have a lot of important bills but none of them, in my view, are the consequence of this particular bill. This is an important bill, it sends a clear message to MADD that we want, as legislators, to support them. It sends a clear message to Nova Scotians that we're not going to put up with this nonsense any more but considering the timing and how it's been done late in the session, this indicates to me - I know the member opposite considers this a top issue - I consider this a lack of good planning and a lack of clear identification of priorities. This particular bill should have been introduced on October 30^th.

[1:30 p.m.]

I understand that there are all kinds of reasons why it wasn't but it should have been. This government should have had their proverbial act together and made sure that this bill

[Page 6457]

was one of the top bills that was coming out of this House. It's not going to get over to Law Amendments Committee, it's not going to get back to the floor of this House. It's not going to become, in effect, a law in Nova Scotia because it is being introduced at this time.

I know I'll hear from Nova Scotians and constituents of mine who say, that's a great bill, you support it but why are you holding it up? I'm not holding it up. I'm not playing dynamic politics here, I'm telling you there's a process in Nova Scotia - Law Amendments is an important part of that process. When this particular bill - members opposite and members of my caucus and I assume the members of the Liberal Party are going to speak on this bill, it will be taken over to this important committee. This government is well aware of the fact of the role of Law Amendments. I sat on Law Amendments Committee for almost 11 years, Mr. Speaker, and let me tell you, it is, in my opinion, one of the most valuable tools we have in this Legislature.

On the topic of tools, I again had the opportunity to mention Chief Frank Beazley. He said every tool possible that we can have to prevent drinking and driving is something that I will support. It's always good to see Mr. Beazley there, Mr. Beazley from the Whites Lake community originally. He wants to make sure that his officers have every possible opportunity and the opportunity for these suspensions, the opportunity to have it in place and send a message to people who are below that .08 but above the .05. Those issues could have been dealt with if this piece of legislation had been brought forth in a more timely fashion.

I notice the minister's comments and I've had the opportunity to speak to the principal of J.L. Ilsley High School. J.L. Ilsley, of course, is the high school in Spryfield. Al Reyner is the principal of that school. Yes, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Reyner used to be a student of mine. I'm so proud of the fact that he's a principal of that school. Mr. Reyner, of course, was so impressed by the reception that students gave that day and compliments to the Minister for being present that day.

Young people are getting the message. Young people understand, they've seen it happen too many times in their short lives and the don't want to continue to see it happen. The message has to be reinforced, has to be sent at every opportunity. Taking it to the high schools, taking it to J.L. - J.L., incidentally, are the initials, J.L. Ilsley. Taking it to those young people and seeing how they received it, that was certainly gratifying to the minister. More importantly, I want you to know that the principal of that school, Mr. Reyner, certainly appreciated how his students received the message.

I'm also well aware of the fact that I attended a press conference in the Chester RCMP Detachment a number of months ago, when the initiative for the South Shore was initiated. This particular initiative is concerning making sure that they are going to have a real good, serious crackdown on drinking and driving along those counties along the South Shore. The response has been great. It's unfortunate, but you have to get out there and catch them. The response has been that these professional police officers ,who are in charge of this initiative, have done a wonderful job. They're out there sending the clear message. The

[Page 6458]

deterrent, of course, is there but if that's what it takes for people to understand the clear message that they have to have, then that's something that we are fully supportive of.

Mr. Speaker, an important piece of legislation, as we get into - if I can use this expression - the dying days of this session. It's a piece of legislation that's going to be stalled now because of the process that we have in this province. It's a piece of legislation that is going to be - if I can use the expression - parked in Law Amendments Committee. Because, I'm assuming, it's going to be moved over there today, but there it will sit until we meet at a future time.

I want to make sure that all members understand this is a piece of legislation that this caucus completely supports. It's something that MADD has asked for for a long time and it is unfortunate, because of the timing and how it's being handled, that it will not be that's for a long time and it's unfortunate because of the timing and how it's being handled that it will not be legislative law come this dangerous time of the Christmas season. So I want you again to remember, Mr. Speaker, with my final comments, the message that I give in my radio advertisements every year - Merry Christmas and Seasons Greetings to Nova Scotians but, please, drive responsibly.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise today and join the debate on this very important piece of legislation, Bill No. 238, the Motor Vehicle Act, amended. It's truly unfortunate that it does come at this late stage of the legislative session. This can be a very significant addition to having an impact on drinking and driving in our province. Each year, of course, we know that the statistics show very clearly that we need to be doing more than what we are currently doing and there's no question that there have been some very, very good initiatives. In this case here, if the blood alcohol level is between .05 and .08, a person is considered impaired and its increases will be one week for the first offence, 15 days for a second offence, 30 days for a third offence.

This is a message that I think we need to get out to not just young Nova Scotians - there is a very, very significant program now in all of our high schools and especially as they lead up to graduation - but this is a message that Nova Scotians need to take seriously every day of the week, to think that in a small province like ours there were 32 deaths directly attributed on the highways to drinking and driving, and I'm sure there is nobody in this Legislature who doesn't know somebody in their community, or possibly a family member who has been affected by drinking and driving, and if not a death, then somebody who has become physically or mentally affected for a lifetime, who are living each day with a disability that did not have to take place.

This summer, late summer and around Labour Day, in the Annapolis Valley, the RCMP took on a special project from one end of the Valley to the other. When they gave

[Page 6459]

their statistical report, which I don't have available here at the moment, but when they did their report and it was announced by way of the media, people in the Valley were absolutely shocked at the number of drivers who were picked up for impairment. Now, think of the number that could have been added to that list if we had the .05 to .08 included. So there's no question this remains a significant problem on the highways and jeopardizes the safety of people who are law-abiding and who are very, very conscious of driving safely at all times.

So our caucus has taken a look at the bill, are very quick to support it, but realize that without the Law Amendments Committee, this should not go forward. There would be a number of people, a number of Nova Scotians, including the endorsement from MADD who have been strong proponents of this legislation for many years, and not to have their voice as a confirming voice to the Legislature and the MLAs of the province I don't think should, in fact, be tempered with. So while it will not be on the current docket, we look forward to it coming back to the House at some point in the future and making sure that this piece of legislation does move forward.

I know it's a sentiment that as an educator and an administrator, the whole issue of drinking and driving, and teaching young people how to be cognizant at all times to make sure they don't turn on the car keys if they have had any drinks at all. So this bill, if nothing else, if nothing else, comes at a time, at the season of the year, that it sends a strong signal to Nova Scotians that we don't want to see deaths on our highways due to drinking and driving. With that, I'll take my place.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

HON. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, I would thank the honourable member for Kings West for his comments. I am pleased to rise in support of the amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act that has been put forward by the honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

This legislation will bring stronger consequences to people who are caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .05. As the minister explained earlier, people who currently blow between .05 and .08 on a roadside alcohol screening test receive the 24-hour licence suspension. Having known the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal for a good number of years now, more than a decade, I do know that as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, he has several responsibilities and each and every one of them he takes very, very seriously. Members on all sides of the House request through the minister in regard to roads, potholes, guardrails, brush cutting, bridges, buildings and things of that nature which are very, very important.

In fact, I know on behalf of your constituents, you bring forward a number of issues to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal and that's appropriate because

[Page 6460]

you're standing up and representing the best interests of your constituents, but I do know personally that the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal takes his responsibilities in terms of highway safety most seriously and, in fact, one of the biggest undertakings that the minister has pledged is to somehow reduce the carnage that is taking place on our highways. I commend the minister, and I think all members on all sides of the House should commend the former 20-year police officer for taking his responsibilities so seriously. (Applause)

With this legislation licenced suspensions will increase to seven days for the first suspension, 15 days for a second and, of course, 30 days for a third, and then subsequent incidents. But I can speak as well, and my colleagues have asked that perhaps I go back down memory lane for just a little bit - I promise not to be too long.

Previous to politics I had an opportunity to work in the trucking industry. During that vocation - I had probably a 22- to 23-year career in the trucking industry - I want to say that I was very fortunate to work with the professionals on the road and many times we had opportunities, whether it was at a truck stop or at a social function, to discuss matters of safety with the enforcement people, whether it was in Canada or the United States, and one of the biggest concerns that peace officers, police officers, vehicle compliance officers face is drivers who are on a road, unfortunately drinking and driving, and it's something that we all should be concerned about.

The minister has brought forward legislation, Mr. Speaker, that I think will go a ways to mitigating the number of deaths and injuries that are happening on our highways and, again, I say it's one of the priorities that the minister has, an undertaking that he claims is most challenging. I commend the minister, the MLA for Cumberland South, for bringing forward this legislation. As well, I do commend MADD, the organization that is very supportive of this legislation. It means a lot to the folks who have been advocating for years that thou shalt not drink and drive, and I do want to personally congratulate MADD for encouraging legislators to support this legislation.

Now, Mr. Speaker, impaired driving took the lives of 32 Nova Scotians in 2007 - time goes by very quickly - just last year 32 lives were the consequence of somebody drinking and driving. This is, as the minister has stated, far too many, it's far too many lives. I know that perhaps as MLAs we can relate to somebody, a family, perhaps a family member, or perhaps an acquaintance, perhaps we've heard of somebody who because of drinking and driving unfortunately lost their life, came to an untimely death.

Mr. Speaker, evidence indicates that drinking and driving with low blood alcohol poses a significant risk to all road users. While I advocated on behalf of the professional drivers going up and down our road, who are on our roads all the time - and I know that they'll be very supportive of this type of legislation because we do share the road whether or not we're in a passenger vehicle, a commercial vehicle, a farm vehicle, or what have you.

[Page 6461]

We all share the road together and we all have a responsibility to work together. I know, in fact, although I haven't had the opportunity to speak to the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, I do know, and I can go out to not very far on a limb here to suggest - and I think the critic would agree - that they would be very supportive of this legislation. It's good legislation, it's the right thing to do, and at the right time.

[1:45 p.m.]

The Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association is another entity that has a lot of respect in the Maritimes and, in fact, right across the country, because many of the members of the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association would travel interprovincially and, of course, internationally. I do know as well that any steps we can take to make the highway safer, that very esteemed group would support. The Nova Scotia Road Builders, I would submit, would be very supportive of this legislation.

As we know, on a daily basis - and it doesn't have to be in the summer during construction season - our Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal employees are out on those roads and they have to deal with, unfortunately, situations where a driver is impaired, somebody is drinking and driving, and the minister is stepping up to the challenge of reducing the deaths and carnage. The total death and carnage, the deaths on our highway last year was around 99, and that's 99 too many deaths on our highways, but 32 of those deaths were attributed to drinking and driving, yes.

The minister and the government, and with the support from what I'm hearing of members opposite, are really sending a strong message that impaired driving will not be tolerated in Nova Scotia. I know that people can speak about this particular bill very passionately, but I just want to, as a former member of the trucking industry, say how much I support this legislation and how much I believe the professionals out on the road will support this legislation. I don't just mean the truckers and the drivers, there are the carriers, there are the employers, there are the shippers, there's again vehicle compliance, there are the passengers, everybody who has an interest. We share the road together and we have a responsibility to reduce the risk to all the drivers.

I know that the member for Cape Breton Centre would support this legislation as well, but it is a collective effort to prevent alcohol-related tragedies and the lasting impact they have on those who are left behind. So with those few words, I just want to commend the minister for taking all his responsibilities so seriously, but indicating that the undertaking, if you will, to bring down the number of deaths on our highways and injuries is one of the most significant responsibilities that he has and we'll be working with him and supporting the legislation. I commend members opposite who are in support of this legislation and it is going to generate some good debate that I think generally that debate will be going in the right direction, no pun intended, but we do support it.

[Page 6462]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Queens.

MS. VICKI CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, I too am pleased to stand here today and speak to this very, very important piece of legislation. Here in the Province of Nova Scotia over the past 20, 30, 40 years we have come progressively far in ensuring the safety of Nova Scotians, the travelling public, to ensure that they are safe on our highways and safe from drivers who get behind the wheel when they're impaired. I think many of us can think back to a day 20, 30, 40 years ago when it was a common practice for many people, and not just teenagers, but many adults - I think we all know of someone who has gotten behind the wheel after they have had one, two, three or four drinks too many. I think we all know of many people who have given silent permission to those people to get behind the wheel of a car while they have been impaired, because it was a practice many of us, 20, 30, 40 years ago, certainly didn't recognize as a very dangerous, dangerous practice.

[Page 6463]

Many years ago it took mums such as Margaret Miller and such as Susan MacAskill, to form a group called MADD - Mothers Against Drunk Driving - to really raise the awareness here in this province, and across the country, to the serious dangers of people getting behind the wheel impaired. Unfortunately for those mothers, they have had the unfortunate circumstance of losing a loved one to someone who has gotten behind the wheel while they've been impaired.

I think most of us know someone, such as Margaret Miller or Susan MacAskill, who has lost a loved one because of a drunk driver; most of us probably know someone in our community who has been injured or who has been killed because of a drunk driver; and most of us can at least somewhere relate to the grieving that has taken place in their lives and many lives and many families across this province, and certainly if we think of the numbers of injuries and deaths related to drunk drivers across this country.

Just recently I attended a launch for the Red Ribbon campaign on the South Shore. I was fortunate enough to meet a young group of teenagers who have been involved for some time with TADD - Teenagers Against Drunk Driving - and I was really impressed with those young people who really, truly do get it, and not only do they get it but they're also raising awareness amongst their peers about the dangers of drinking and driving.

I think we really need to, and certainly we do, support those young teenagers, and to get the message out there by moving forward with pieces of legislation such as this, that really drives the message home that there will be no tolerance, no tolerance at all, for those people who choose to get behind the wheel with a blood alcohol content of .05 or above. I was really impressed with these young people.

The other reason I was really impressed with these young people is I recall when I was a teenager in high school, I know of at least three people I attended high school with who lost their lives because they were either impaired or they were under the influence of other substances. When you're a teenager and you're in high school - and they are some of the most important years of your young adult life - and when you know of someone whom you've gone to school with and they lose their life because of an error in judgment, it really brings a high school population almost to their knees in recognition of the fact that they are not infallible.

It's almost scary when young people all of a sudden are mourning the loss of a young person whom they have known for many years, and then the recognition dawns on them that it is because of a choice they made unwisely. So this is a very important piece of legislation, it truly is, and not only does it get the message out there to our youth, but it also sends a very strong signal to adults out there who continue to drive while under the influence.

Just looking at the fact that over the last year, 186 drivers were pulled over and given a 24-hour suspension. At least 780 drivers across this province were stopped and caught for

[Page 6464]

impaired driving and given substantial fines beyond the 24-hour suspension. It makes you wonder how many drivers out there didn't get caught and were still on the roads behind a wheel and drunk. The numbers would probably be staggering if we really thought about it.

This is a very important piece of legislation because not only will it drive the message home that drinking while impaired is not tolerated here on the roads of Nova Scotia, the penalties will be stiff. Having one's licence suspended for more than 24 hours, having one's licence suspended for seven days for a first offence with a blood alcohol content of .05 would be a wake-up call, I think, for the most responsibly minded person who perhaps had made an error in judgment for one time.

We are very pleased to support this bill, this amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act. We're very pleased the minister has brought this forward. However, we can honestly say - I agree with my colleague who spoke before me - that unfortunately the timing of this bill will not see it in place before this holiday season that is upon us now. Many people, as we all know, during the holiday season tend to go out and socialize a little bit more during this time of the year than other times of the year. So, unfortunately this bill will not address some of those people who will socialize and make an error in judgment and get behind the wheel while drinking. That's an unfortunate part of the timing of this bill.

We certainly do support this bill. It's a good bill, it's a bill that's a priority bill and should have been brought forward at the first of the session. We still believe it is a priority bill and we do look forward to seeing it move through Law Amendments Committee when that time comes. If we can ensure one more safe life on the highways of Nova Scotia, then that's a good thing. If we can raise the awareness of the responsibilities we have as licenced drivers in this province, whether we're young, a new driver, or whether we've been on the road ourselves for well over 30 years holding a driver's licence, that message alone is an important one.

I want to thank you for bringing it forward. I also want to thank the members of MADD across this province who, especially this time of year and the anniversaries of the deaths of their loved ones, is probably a very particularly hard challenge for them. But I'm sure they are most reassured that the Province of Nova Scotia continues to move forward in a progressive manner in enabling bills like this to come forward. I'll take my seat and I thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou Centre.

MR. PATRICK DUNN: Mr. Speaker, we certainly all have been affected somewhere along the line with impaired drivers - perhaps a close member of the immediate family or a relative, a friend, a co-worker or perhaps a neighbour. I'm certainly no exception. A number of years ago, an impaired driver impaired driver hit my grandparents while they waited along the edge of a road to be picked up to actually go to church. At that particular time this

[Page 6465]

impaired driver killed my grandmother and certainly my grandfather spent many months in the hospital after that accident.

In recent years I spent 12 years as a driver education instructor in Pictou County, at Trenton High School and at North Nova Education Centre. During that time, I had the opportunity to teach literally thousands of students in the driver education program; 25 hours of theory and 10 to 12 hours on the road. During the 12 two hour and 10 minute modules, one was dedicated to impaired driving. There's also an overlapping of that in all the other modules and units in the program.

[2:00 p.m.]

We dedicated a lot of awareness to the impaired driving problem, not only in this province, but across the country. During that module I would have police officers in speaking to the students, paramedics, firefighters, lots of pictures of accident scenes, had victims in of accidents due to impaired drivers speaking to the classes and, of course, videos depicting the impact to everyone involved in these, what I call, very unnecessary accidents on our highways. We even had in our classes glasses - I'll call them goggles - with various levels of intoxication. They would put these on and they would have to demonstrate some skills, like walking a straight line in the gymnasium, walking around pillions, bouncing a basketball, catching a set of keys - various types of things like that to show them that if they're having a great deal of difficulty with this, what would it be like to be behind the wheel of a vehicle?

We all have a responsibility to do everything in our power to eliminate these types of drivers from our highways. As other members mentioned on both sides of the House, 32 lives in 2007 is certainly too many. I certainly support these amendments. It is an important bill that sends the right message. I'm very pleased that our minister - and we have had various talks about this topic over the past number of months. I think I'll close by saying it is definitely the right thing to do. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you. The honourable member for Hants East.

MR. JOHN MACDONELL: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I really was glad for an opportunity to make a few comments on this piece of legislation, an Act to Amend Chapter 293 of the Revised Statutes of 1989, the Motor Vehicle Act. I guess it's pretty clear in the minister's bill, when you look at the explanatory note, the bill increases the roadside suspension for a blood alcohol level of .05 or more from 24 hours to seven days for the first suspension, 15 days for the second suspension and 30 days for the third suspension within 10 years.

You know when you think about - the member has said 32 people killed in 2007 - when you think that these were deaths that could have been prevented. Thank God, I guess, for me that I haven't lost a child, or my spouse, or a parent, or somebody so close. I have to

[Page 6466]

say, I worry. My children are from ages 16 to 21, it seems that recently it's just about every time I turn around, I have another child taking driver's training. My 16-year-old daughter, Kelton, is taking driver education right now. So, as much as I see this as a major step for her and that yes, we certainly know the necessity to be able to drive a vehicle, how important that is. We can think about all the pitfalls that we worry about when our children leave the yard with the vehicle, about them getting home safely, but this is another element that we worry about. This is a preventable needless death that could happen to someone close to us and I want to say I applaud the minister for bringing this legislation forward.

I want to speak for a moment about Mothers Against Drunk Driving, that organization. The national president, Margaret Miller, is a constituent of mine. Her son, Bruce Miller, passed away in an automobile accident in Prince Edward Island as a result of a collision with an impaired driver, Bruce was a former student of mine. So I know that his death was the initiative that brought Margaret into that organization in the hope that Bruce's death was not in vain, that lives could be saved by her action with the Mothers Against Drunk Driving. I think she hopes to spread that message that it is possible to impact the driving public in a way that is positive and that would prevent deaths.

Also here some weeks ago I went to the kickoff for the MADD campaign. I was at the Royal Bank in Elmsdale and Mrs. Florence Daigle Day who is the representative in Hants East, Mr. Speaker, Florence lost her husband some years ago as a result of a collision with an impaired driver. I would say that her two children, Patrick and Krista, have had to live for some years now, with the loss of their father. They were two students I taught as well. So I think when members say that it's practically impossible to not know someone where this has happened, it's just about true I would say. It is really impossible not to have had some contact or some interaction with people who have had a loss of life in a family who has experienced an accident with an impaired driver.

So I wanted to compliment the minister on his piece of legislation. I am a believer in education and so, as much as we can educate the public, I know that this goes more to deterrent than to education, but society has come a long way in this regard, Mr. Speaker. If this piece of legislation saves one more life, then it's a pretty cheap price to pay in order to do that. So with those comments, I look forward to the bill at some point moving through the process in the House.

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

The honourable Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by thanking my colleagues on both sides of the House for their input on this very important piece of legislation. There were a lot of good comments here today in regard to the effects impaired driving has - and

[Page 6467]

the tragedies as a result - on so many families throughout Nova Scotia and, obviously, from families from outside of this province.

[Page 6468]

I do want to say and I know it was said here today and I'm always reminded by Margaret Miller and Susan MacAskill, I say accidents as well, but they remind me they're not accidents, they're collisions because they're avoidable. So they are not accidents, they are collisions that are caused by someone who has made the wrong choice and we should always remember that. I do want to say, as well, that tomorrow morning I'll be in Kentville as we kick off the provincial Operation Christmas campaign. Police officers and others from around the province will gather. This is a tremendous campaign that the police conduct throughout the month of December where they go out there and they put an extra drive on to reinforce and drive home the fact that people should not be impaired or drink alcohol while they're driving.

So Mr. Speaker, on that, I would like to thank, as well, the police and the volunteers throughout this province. Also we had, a week or two ago, we had Operation Red Nose, and it is offered in various places in the province where volunteers come together and offer the opportunity for people who have been out enjoying the evening, and they have a vehicle and they want to drive home, they have an opportunity to get a free ride home. I know they're always looking forward to volunteers to take part and offer their service. I can tell you that myself, the deputy and my EA will be forming a team here in Halifax, and we're going to take part one evening to help them out. I encourage all members, if you live near an area where this service is available, I'd ask you to come out and support these volunteers who provide a tremendous service throughout Nova Scotia. I know it's not in all communities, but certainly if you're in HRM it's available - and in other parts of the province, I believe it's down in Truro way.

There is something I want to clarify. The honourable member for Timberlea-Prospect mentioned about - obviously there's a recurring theme over there in the New Democratic Party with regard to the timing of this bill. Yesterday at the bill briefing, the question was asked: If we pass this today, could we implement this by Christmas? The answer by one of the staff persons was no. But it wasn't my department, it was actually someone from - a gentleman, Mr. Paul Arsenault - Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations who said that.

The reason being is we developed this bill and we realized it's a lot more complicated than the previous process that you go through here in Nova Scotia. That's why it took so long for us to get the bill to a place where we felt comfortable with it, and it actually wasn't until last week, although we've been working on it for quite some time.

Today, if you get stopped by a police officer and you are going to receive that temporary suspension for 24 hours, the police simply take your licence and 24 hours later you can pick it up and away you go and you're all set to drive again. But under this new process, not only do you have your licence seized, that licence has to be then sent on to the registrar where your abstract will be recorded to show that you have, in fact, received a temporary suspension. There will be a check done, a track through the system to see if you have had a

[Page 6469]

suspension prior, then it will be incumbent upon the person to pay their reinstatement fee, but also go through the process of applying to the registrar to get their licence back.

It differs quite a bit from where we were to where we are today. I, like the members opposite, would have loved to have seen this bill pass in the House today and become law and ensure that we have another tool for the police this Christmas but, unfortunately, as we got near to the development of the legislation we became aware that it's a little bit more complicated than I had hoped, and the process will be a little bit more demanding and complicated for the system. That, as you can appreciate, Mr. Speaker, involves several departments, and I can tell you the staff in the departments want to see this moved through as quickly as possible.

If it hadn't been for those issues, we actually would have had the bill in here earlier and would have had it passed and would have had it implemented. Even with that, if we did it today, it would still probably be through the winter months before we'd be able to formalize that process and ensure that we have a process that we don't want challenged. We want a process that will stand the test. It could end up being in some sort of a court process challenging it, so we want to ensure that if we're doing this, we do it right, and for those reasons we were not able to bring it here earlier to have it passed in this session.

I mentioned as well that I'd been at J.L. Ilsley High School last week and I want to say how impressed I was with those young people. The basketball teams - male and female - were there, members of the road safety youth committee were there, members of the teen health committee were there - one was involved with the provincial road safety youth committee; in fact, it would help give suggestions and advice to the provincial road safety committee, which is made up of several departments including Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, Health Promotion and Protection, Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, and others. So they deserve a lot of credit.

Also, I want to mention that in my own community, in Parrsboro, we presently have two young men from high school who are in the process of establishing a chapter for the Parrsboro area and are looking for sponsors for their sign - certainly I'm very proud to take part in that.

In closing I want to say that the issue of impaired driving has devastated families for many, many years. We brought several pieces of legislation to this House. It gets debated and lots of times we want to see it changed, but I don't think there's anything more important than what we can do today with regard to passing such legislation as this.

My colleague mentioned earlier, and I've said it many times, that over the years responsibility as a police officer and then as an elected member in the Attorney General position in this province, now with Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal - and we do, we talk about the roads and ditches and brush and all the things we talk about that money

[Page 6470]

will fix. But I don't think I've ever been given an any more important chore than to reduce the number of people killed on our highways in this province. I take that very seriously, Mr. Speaker, and I know all members in this House do.

Mr. Speaker, it is legislation like this that I truly believe, like the integrated police unit that we have down on the South Shore that is going to be expanded in other parts of the province. It's issues like this that will, at the end of the day, be proven through statistics, to reduce fatalities on our highways. If we collectively as legislators do that, then I think we've done our job.

[2:15 p.m.]

Just as I close - and I will move second reading of Bill No. 238 - on behalf of all the members here, to the public out there who may watch or may hear this, my Christmas message to them is please don't drink and drive. With that, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to move second reading of Bill No. 238. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for second reading of Bill No. 238. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I would seek the consent of the House to revert to the order of business, Presenting Reports of Committees.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, as Chairman of the Committee on Law Amendments, I am directed to report that the committee has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 186 - Animal Protection Act.

[Page 6471]

and the committee recommends this bill to the favourable consideration of the House, with certain amendments.

MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that this bill be referred to the Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker. I would now seek the consent of the House to consider the bill just presented in Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I move that you do now leave the Chair and the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House on Bills.

[2:17 p.m. The House resolved itself into a CWH on Bills with Deputy Speaker Mr. Wayne Gaudet in the Chair.]

[2:19 p.m. CWH on Bills rose and the House reconvened. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Alfie MacLeod, resumed the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER: The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House on Bills reports:

THE CLERK: That the committee has met and considered the following bill:

Bill No. 186 - Animal Protection Act.

and the chairman has been instructed to recommend this bill to the favourable consideration of the House, without amendment.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, would you please call the order of business, Public Bills for Third Reading.

PUBLIC BILLS FOR THIRD READING

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 6472]

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, would you please call Bill No. 186.

Bill No. 186 - Animal Protection Act.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

HON. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, I want to thank all members in the House for their support of Bill No. 186. I particularly want to acknowledge the work of the honourable member for Halifax Clayton Park. We had an opportunity with the critics to sit down and discuss some amendments to the bill to protect animals and aid animals that are in distress. It is a commitment that the Premier made that we would come in with legislation. We have done that and, as well, I would acknowledge the critics with both caucuses that supported the legislation.

People care very, very much about their animals and there are many, many changes to the existing legislation. One of the biggest changes is that, as a consequence of this legislation going through, Bill No. 186, the Department of Agriculture will take on the responsibility for the farm animals, the large animals, and that is supported, I think, quite widely. So without any further adieu, I am pleased to move third reading of Bill No. 186.

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

The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

HON. BROOKE TAYLOR: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to close debate on Bill No. 186 and so move.

MR. SPEAKER: The motion for third reading of Bill No. 186. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

Ordered that this bill do pass. Ordered that the title be as read by the Clerk. Ordered that the bill be engrossed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, that concludes the government's business for this sitting of the Second Session of the Sixtieth General Assembly (Interruptions) Unless there's consensus. However, I move that the House do now recess and await the attendance of Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor.

[Page 6473]

MR. SPEAKER: The motion is for a recess. Would all those in favour of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

We are now recessed until the arrival of the Lieutenant Governor.

[2:22 p.m. The House recessed.]

[3:22 p.m. The House reconvened.]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

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

MR. SPEAKER: Let Her Honour be admitted.

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS: Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor.

[The Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Mayann E. Francis, preceded by her escort, and Mr. Ken Greenham, Sergeant-at-Arms, bearing the Mace, entered the House of Assembly Chamber. The Lieutenant Governor then took her seat on the Throne.

The Sergeant-at-Arms then departed and re-entered the Chamber, followed by the Speaker, the Honourable Alfie MacLeod, the Chief Clerk of the House, Roderick MacArthur, Q.C., Assistant Clerk, Arthur Fordham, Q.C. and Assistant Clerk, Neil Ferguson.

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

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

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

THE CLERK:

Bill No. 26 - Environment Act.

Bill No. 78 - Assessment Act.

Bill No. 93 - Motor Vehicle Act.

[Page 6474]

Bill No. 118 - Residential Tenancies Act.

Bill No. 129 - Trade Union Act.

Bill No. 154 - Education Act.

Bill No. 158 - Gaming Control Act.

Bill No. 179 - Halifax Regional Municipality Charter.

Bill No. 181 - HRM By Design.

Bill No. 186 - Animal Protection Act.

Bill No. 187 - Child Pornography Reporting Act.

Bill No. 189 - Miners' Memorial Day Act.

Bill No. 190 - Co-operative Associations Act.

Bill No. 191 - Motor Vehicle Act.

Bill No. 193 - Municipal Grants Act.

Bill No. 194 - Partnership Act.

Bill No. 195 - Partnerships and Business Names Registration Act.

Bill No. 196 - Beneficiaries Designation Act.

Bill No. 199 - Enforcement of Court Orders Act.

Bill No. 200 - Human Rights Act.

Bill No. 201 - Counselling Therapists Act.

Bill No. 203 - Hospitals Act.

Bill No. 204 - Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre Expansion Act.

Bill No. 207 - Silver Dart 100^th Anniversary Act.

Bill No. 208 - Conservation Property Tax Exemption Act.

[Page 6475]

Bill No. 210 - Education Act.

Bill No. 211 - Fair Registration Practices Act.

Bill No. 212 - Homeowner Protection Act.

Bill No. 213 - East Hants Sportsplex Expansion Act.

Bill No. 215 - Education Act.

Bill No. 216 - Crosbie Memorial Trust Fund Act.

Bill No. 217 - Utility and Review Board Act.

Bill No. 220 - Judicature Act.

Bill No. 225 - Provincial Sport Act.

Bill No. 227 - Provincial Horse Act.

Bill No. 233 - Apology Act.

Bill No. 234 - Privacy Review Officer Act.

Bill No. 239 - Democracy 250 Act.

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR: In Her Majesty's name, I assent to these Bills.

[The Speaker and the Clerks left the Chamber.]

[The Lieutenant Governor left the Chamber.]

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

[The Speaker took the Chair.]

MR. SPEAKER: I would ask the members of the House to join me in the singing of O Canada.

[The national anthem was sung by the members.]

MR. SPEAKER: Please be seated.

[Page 6476]

The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to first and foremost thank the Speaker for the fine job that you did this Fall sitting once again. (Applause)

I was thinking about this week as we gathered for the dinner hosted by Her Honour during the past week and one-half or so, I thought it was a tremendous night that Her Honour hosted us for that night, thinking of just how fortunate we all are to have this opportunity to be MLAs in this House. Regardless of our political affiliation, regardless of our thoughts and different issues - and we do have our disagreements from time to time and we do take shots at each other from time to time, but at the end of the day, I truly believe that each and every member in this House of each and every Party is here for the right reason and that's to make a better province for the people of our province to live in. I want to acknowledge that. I think we often forget, or forget to remind ourselves, that we're all here together for that one reason.

I just want to thank all members of the House, the Leaders - both Leader of the NDP and the Leader of the Liberal Party - and their caucuses, for working with the government this session and we all worked together to pass, I believe, some very good legislation from all sides of the House. I think that our province will be better served for that.

We're also very fortunate to have the opportunity to be in this House, to practice our beliefs freely in our province and in our country, to be open to criticisms from the public and to be open to having the opportunity for them to share their beliefs, to be educated in good schools, to be treated by caring health care workers in our province, professionals, and to watch our children grow up in a society that I believe is the envy of the world.

Let us continue to do all that we can for our province and for our country. With that said, I want to wish you and your staff, I want to wish all members, the very best this holiday season. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and a safe season for us all. Nollaig Chridheil agus Blia Dhna Mhath Ur. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Assembly I move that this General Assembly be adjourned to meet again at the call of the Speaker. (Applause)

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

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Thank you very much. I'd like to echo the sentiments expressed by the Premier with respect to your wise and fair rulings in this House over the course of the session. I'd also like to extend, I'm sure, the thanks of all members of the House to the Clerk's Office and to Legislative Counsel. I know that often times they're working on short notice to prepare a lot of what we do here. (Applause) Of course, I would like to extend our thanks to the Pages and to the operation staff of the House and, of course, to the Library staff. We can't do what we do unless we get their support as well.

[Page 6477]

On behalf of our caucus, we want to extend best wishes to everyone for the holiday season and I want to assure all the members opposite that they're on my Christmas card list. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Where do I go from there, Mr. Speaker? I can't wait. I want to associate myself with the remarks of the Premier and the Leader of the New Democratic Party. This has been - as the Premier had spoken last week when we were gathered at a dinner with Her Honour, I had mentioned that I believe we are all very blessed to be in this House, to be able to represent and bring the concerns of our constituents, the people who are the heart and soul of this province, here to defend them.

I also would like to acknowledge our families, the extended families, the spouses of the people who are in this House and our children. While sometimes the public may not think we're in this House very long or in this House very often, oftentimes many people in this House are away from their loved ones and they commit to public service, they have a commitment to public service. (Applause) They allow us to come here because they believe in our dream. They believe in the fact that we know we can move our province forward. We know that we can have a better Nova Scotia so that they can have the same opportunities, or more opportunities, than we were given and blessed with from our parents.

So I want to extend to everyone in this House, on behalf of our caucus, a sincere Merry Christmas to you and your families, and all the best as we move into the new season. Thank you very much. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Just before we close, I would also like to extend very special and warm holiday wishes to everybody here today. I want to thank you for your support over the course of the last little bit of time and also echo what has been said about our families, because there is nobody who knows more about the time that's taken away from our homes than our spouses and our children. Sometimes we forget that and we should always remember that they are, indeed, our strongest supporters.

To echo what the Leader of the Opposition said earlier, you are all on my Christmas card list because you already got them. (Laughter) Have a safe holiday.

We are adjourned.

[The House rose at 3:42 p.m.]

[Page 6478]

NOTICES OF MOTION UNDER RULE 32(3)

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Nova Scotia headed to the polls to elect their school board representatives; and

Whereas in Richmond County, Francine Boudreau was acclaimed as the school board representative on the Strait Regional School Board for East Richmond; and

Whereas a member of the Parent Advisory Committee for the East Richmond Education expansion project, Francine Boudreau was first elected to the board in a July 2007 by-election;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Francine Boudreau on being acclaimed as the school board member for East Richmond and wish her well during her term on the Strait Regional School Board.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Richmond County native Robert Bouchard is celebrating 40 years of song writing and performing; and

Whereas Robert Bouchard released four recordings, having toured Canada and the United States with his own songs and those of his favourite artists such as Gordon Lightfoot, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, George Jones and Willie Nelson; and

Whereas the Lennox Passage Yacht Club kicked off the opening of their annual Harbour Fest in D'Escousse on August 1^st with a musical tribute to Robert Bouchard's 40 years in the music industry;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Robert Bouchard on celebrating 40 years in the music industry and wish him continued success.

[Page 6479]

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Boudreau's Fuels is a family-owned fuel delivery business located in Arichat; and

Whereas Boudreau's Fuels has grown to include Caper Gas, a new division that will partner with existing business to establish gas outlets in Cape Breton and the Strait area; and

Whereas Caper Gas has already established gas outlets at Shamrock Store in D'Escousse, Basque Convenience in Chapel Island, Fleur de Lis Convenience in Rockdale, Ehler's Convenience and Coffee Shop in Whycocomagh, G.H. Smith & Son in Orangedale and a new outlet expected soon at the Seal Cove Restaurant and Convenience in Louisdale;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Boudreau's Fuels on their new venture, Caper Gas, and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 6150

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas founded in 1866, the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto is internationally recognized as one of the most significant musical institutions in the world; and

Whereas in June 2008, Kaitlyn Boudreau, daughter of Jessica and Lionel Boudreau of Petit-de-Grat, earned her Honours classification in piano and also wrote her music theory examination, receiving a classification of First Class Honours with Distinction; and

Whereas Kaitlyn will begin preparation for her Grade 7 accreditation in the Fall;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Kaitlyn Boudreau on achieving this distinction from the Royal Conservatory of Music and wish her continued success in her musical career.

[Page 6480]

RESOLUTION NO. 6151

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas founded in 1866, the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto is internationally recognized as one of the most significant musical institutions in the world; and

Whereas in June 2008, Chantal Berthier, daughter of Jerome and Alvina Berthier of Arichat, earned her Honours classification in piano; and

Whereas Chantal will begin preparation for her Grade 4 accreditation in the Fall;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Chantal Berthier on achieving this distinction from the Royal Conservatory of Music and wish her continued success in her musical career.

RESOLUTION NO. 6152

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas founded in 1866, the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto is internationally recognized as one of the most significant musical institutions in the world; and

Whereas in June 2008, Kendra Landry, daughter of Albert and Andrea Landry of Petit-de-Grat, earned her First Class Honours classification in piano; and

Whereas Kendra will begin preparation for her Grade 4 accreditation in the Fall:

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Kendra Landry on achieving this distinction from the Royal Conservatory of Music and wish her continued success in her musical career.

[Page 6481]

RESOLUTION NO. 6153

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas founded in 1866, the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto is internationally recognized as one of the most significant musical institutions in the world; and

Whereas in June 2008, Alexandria Samson, daughter of Clint and Trina Samson of Arichat, earned her First Class Honours classification in piano; and

Whereas Alexandria will begin preparation for her Grade 3 accreditation in the Fall;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Alexandria Samson on achieving this distinction from the Royal Conservatory of Music and wish her continued success in her musical career.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas David Covin and Paula Boudreau once again hosted an important event at their home in West Arichat; and

Whereas with the help of volunteers Lucy Ann Richard, Alfred Richard and Reed Boudreau, the Annual IWK Hospital Pig Roast took place; and

Whereas over $1,400 was raised, with all proceeds going to the IWK Children's Hospital in Halifax;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate David Covin, Paula Boudreau, Lucy Ann Richard, Alfred Richard, Reed Boudreau, and all the participants of the Annual IWK Pig Roast for their generous donation to the IWK Children's Hospital.

[Page 6482]

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the Petit-de-Grat Red Caps have a long history of excellence in the Richmond Amateur Baseball Association; and

Whereas the Red Caps won the championship of the RABA for the 11^th year in a row with a 10-6 win over the Port Hawkesbury Bucs on August 24^th; and

Whereas this year's team consisted of Captain Richard Boudreau, Clayton Samson, Gilles Samson, Velma Boudreau, Maurice Boudreau, Rheal Boudreau, Godfrey Sampson, Terry Samson, Mark Samson, Ronnie Savoury, Shawn Boudreau, Barry Marchand, Julien Boudreau, Bruce Joshua, Don Fougere, and Hubert David;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the Petit-de-Grat Red Caps on capturing their eleventh straight RABA Championship and wish them continued success.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Richmond County RCMP officer Meghan Bremner was a member of the Canadian team heading to Japan to compete in the Women's World Cup of Baseball; and

Whereas Meghan, a native of Napan, New Brunswick, was part of the bronze medal Canadian team from the 2006 Women's World Cup in Taipei, Taiwan; and

Whereas Meghan was the only Maritime representative on the Canadian squad that was mostly made up of veterans;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Meghan Bremner on being part of the 2008 Canadian team for the Women's World Cup of Baseball.

[Page 6483]

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Arichat native Charcy Britten-Boudreau continues to excel in the sport of volleyball; and

Whereas Charcy was selected to play with Team Nova Scotia at the Eastern Elite Under 16 Volleyball Championships held in Moncton, New Brunswick; and

Whereas Charcy and Team Nova Scotia finished seventh out of 13 teams at the championship;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Charcy Britten-Boudreau on being a member of Team Nova Scotia and wish her continued success.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the Dundee Golf and Country Club hosted their annual championship; and

Whereas River Bourgeois resident Leon Carter continued his dominance at golf as the overall winner of the championship; and

Whereas Leon also scored his first hole-in-one by acing the par three 13^th on the final day of the competition;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Leon Carter on winning the 2008 Dundee Golf and Country Club annual championship while scoring his first hole-in-one.

[Page 6484]

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas siblings Justin and Gioia Stanley of Isle Madame spent the summer running the St. Peter's Marina Sailing School in St. Peter's; and

Whereas Justin and Gioia have been sailing for six years and enjoy the chance to share their love of the water with students from the Strait area and beyond; and

Whereas the St. Peter's Marina Sailing School, which also offers sailing for disabled students through the DisAbled Sailing Program, is supported by Sport Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Yachting Association;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Justin and Gioia Stanley for sharing their love of sailing with other students and wish them both continued success.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the Royal Canadian Legion continues to play an important role in its support for veterans, their widows, Armed Forces personnel, cadets and legionnaires; and

Whereas this year marks the 75^th Anniversary of Legion Branch 47 St. Peter's; and

Whereas the anniversary was marked with a supper at the Legion and speeches from various dignitaries;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Legion Branch 47 St. Peter's on celebrating their 75^th Anniversary and wish them many more years of success.

[Page 6485]

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Strait Pee Wee Baseball League in the Strait area featured teams from Isle Madame, St. Peter's and Port Hawkesbury; and

Whereas during the year-end tournament held on Saturday, September 13^th, the St. Peter's Pee Wees defeated the Port Hawkesbury squad 10-6 to win the championship; and

Whereas led by coaches Billy Morrison and Arthur Johnson, the team consisted of players: Makaela Sampson, Holly Wilkie, Bethany King, Steven Campbell, Rickie Marten, Sonny Morrison, Ja'li Johnson, Arthur Johnson, Austin Morrison and Jamison Sampson;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate the players and coaches of the St. Peter's Pee Wees on winning the 2008 championship of the Strait Pee Wee Baseball League and wish them continued success.

RESOLUTION NO. 6162

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Chapel Island is a First Nation's band in Richmond County; and

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island First Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Russell Marshall was elected as a councillor;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Russell Marshall on his election and wish him well in his term as councillor for Chapel Island First Nation.

[Page 6486]

RESOLUTION NO. 6163

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island First Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Kenny Basque was elected as the new chief of Chapel Island; and

Whereas Kenny Basque previously served as a band councillor for 12 years;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Chief Kenny Basque on his election and wish him well in his term as chief of Chapel Island First Nation.

RESOLUTION NO. 6164

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Chapel Island is a First Nation's band in Richmond County; and

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island First Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Basil Johnson was elected as a councillor;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Basil Johnson on his election and wish him well in his term as councillor for Chapel Island First Nation.

RESOLUTION NO. 6165

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

[Page 6487]

Whereas Chapel Island is a First Nation's band in Richmond County; and

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island First Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Jimmy Marshall was elected as a councillor;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Jimmy Marshall on his election and wish him well in his term as councillor for Chapel Island First Nation.

RESOLUTION NO. 6166

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Chapel Island is a First Nation's band in Richmond County; and

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island First Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Lindsay Marshall was elected as a councillor, having served as chief of Chapel Island in the past;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Lindsay Marshall on his election and wish him well in his term as councillor for Chapel Island First Nation.

RESOLUTION NO. 6167

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Chapel Island is a First Nation's band in Richmond County; and

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island First Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Helen Doyle was elected as a councillor;

[Page 6488]

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Helen Doyle on her election and wish her well in her term as councillor for Chapel Island First Nation.

RESOLUTION NO. 6168

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas Chapel Island is a First Nation's band in Richmond County; and

Whereas the residents of Chapel Island first Nation recently elected a new chief and band council; and

Whereas Sandra Basque-Johnson was elected as a councillor;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Sandra Basque-Johnson on her election and wish her well in her term as councillor for Chapel Island First Nation.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

À une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que le samedi 18 octobre, les résidents de la Nouvelle-Écosse se sont rendus aux urnes pour élire leurs représentants aux conseils scolaires; et

Attendue que dans le comté de Richmond, Blair Samson a été élu par acclamation comme l'un des deus membres du Conseil scolaire acadien provincial pour le comté de Richmond; et

Attendu que Blair Samson a été membre du Richmond County School Board de 1989 à 1994, membre du Strait Regional School Board pendant une année en 1996, et membre du Conseil scolaire acadien provincial pour le comté de Richmond pendant onze ans, après son élection en 1997;

Par conséquent, qu'il soit résolu que l'Assemblée législative de la Nouvelle-Écosse félicite Blair Samson pour avoir été élu par acclamation comme l'un des membres du conseil

[Page 6489]

pour le comté de Richmond et lui souhaite bonne chance dans son mandat au sein du Conseil scolaire acadien provincial.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Nova Scotia headed to the polls to elect their school board representatives; and

Whereas in Richmond County, Blair Samson was acclaimed as one of the two Conseil scolaire acadien provincial board members for Richmond County; and

Whereas Blair Samson first served on the Richmond County School Board from 1989-1994, along with serving on the Strait Regional School Board for a year in 1996, has been a board member of the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial for Richmond County for 11 years, having been first elected in 1997;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Blair Samson on being acclaimed as one of the school board members for Richmond County and wish him well during his term on the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

À une date ultérieure, je demanderai l'adoption de la résolution suivante:

Attendu que le samedi 18 octobre, les résidents de la Nouvelle-Écosse se sont rendus aux urnes pour élire leurs représentants aux conseils scolaires; et

Attendue que dans le comté de Richmond, Robbie Fougere a été élu par acclamation comme l'un des deus membres du Conseil scolaire acadien provincial pour le comté de Richmond; et

Attendu que Robbie Fougere a été élu pour la première fois au Conseil scolaire acadien provincial en 2004 après avoir été enseignant pendant trente ans et après avoir été le premier directeur du campus du Collège de l'Acadie à Petit-de-Grat;

[Page 6490]

Par conséquent, qu'il soit résolu que l'Assemblée législative de la Nouvelle-Écosse félicite Robbie Fougere pour avoir été élu par acclamation comme l'un des membres du conseil pour le comté de Richmond et lui souhaite bonne chance dans son mandat au sein du Conseil scolaire acadien provincial.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Nova Scotia headed to the polls to elect their school board representatives; and

Whereas in Richmond County, Robbie Fougere was acclaimed as one of the two Conseil scolaire acadien provincial board members for Richmond County; and

Whereas Robbie Fougere was first elected to the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial in 2004 after teaching for 30 years and serving as the first directeur of le College de l'Acadie campus in Petit-de-Grat;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Robbie Fougere on being acclaimed as one of the school board members for Richmond County and wish him well during his term on the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Richmond County elected a new municipal council; and

Whereas Councillor Malcolm Beaton was acclaimed as the representative for District 3; and

Whereas a well-known community volunteer and leader, Malcolm Beaton has served the residents of District 3 for 20 years, having been first elected in 1988;

[Page 6491]

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Malcolm Beaton on being acclaimed in District 3 and wish him success during his current term on Richmond Municipal Council.

[Page 6492]

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Richmond County elected a new municipal council; and

Whereas Councillor Steve Sampson was acclaimed as the representative for District 9; and

Whereas a well-known community volunteer and leader, Steve Sampson has served the residents of District 9 for 17 years, having been first elected in 1991;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Steve Sampson on being acclaimed in District 9 and wish him success during his current term on Richmond Municipal Council.

By: Mr. Michel Samson (Richmond)

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

Whereas on Saturday, October 18^th, residents of Richmond County elected a new municipal council; and

Whereas residents of District 1 elected Victor David as their new councillor; and

Whereas Victor David is a well-known businessman and resident of Arichat;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia House of Assembly congratulate Councillor Victor David on being elected in District 1 and wish him success during his current term on Richmond Municipal Council.