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

Available on INTERNET at http://www.gov.ns.ca/legislature/HOUSE_BUSINESS/hansard.html

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HALIFAX, THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2009

Sixtieth General Assembly

Second Session

2:00 P.M.

SPEAKER

Hon. Alfie MacLeod

DEPUTY SPEAKER

Mr. Wayne Gaudet

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The draw for the late debate has taken place. It has been submitted by the Leader of the Liberal Party:

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize the significance of the Irving-owned land in Digby County currently up for sale to the highest bidder, with a deadline of May 2, 2009 approaching and the consequences of this important land being sold to outside interests.

We will now commence the daily routine.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

PRESENTING REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

TABLING REPORTS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER PAPERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table the Nova Scotia Civil Procedure Rules Amendments that have been provided by the courts.

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MR. SPEAKER: The amendments are tabled.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table the Revised Youth Case Processing Times document.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Justice.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to table the Nova Scotia Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Review Office, 2008 Annual Report.

MR. SPEAKER: The report is tabled.

STATEMENTS BY MINISTERS

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

HON. RODNEY MACDONALD (The Premier): Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise in my place today to remember a friend to everyone in this House and our colleague, the Honourable Michael Baker. Despite the pain Michael endured until his last days, he always remained committed to his duties, whether here in the House or outside. On this first day back I have to say this House is not the same without him.

Michael was one of the most dedicated and intelligent individuals that I have ever met. He entered the political arena in 1998 and he was determined to improve the conditions of his community, of his riding and of the Province of Nova Scotia. He was elected as MLA for Lunenburg four times and I know it saddened him to think that he may not be there to fight for yet another victory.

Ever since he first learned of his cancer diagnosis three years ago, he remained full steam ahead. He rarely spoke of his ordeal and never sought sympathy. After his first surgery, just prior to the election call - in fact, I didn't tell him that I was making the election call because I knew he probably wouldn't go in for his surgery. I went to the hospital to visit him to tell him that I called the election at that time. After his first surgery, just prior to the election call, he disregarded his doctor's advice and only a few weeks later hit the campaign trail and won.

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He has been a central figure of our government at each and every turn. His time as Finance Minister was perhaps his proudest, Mr. Speaker, delivering an historic, unanimous vote on his first budget. His stamp is on the 2009-10 budget as well. He delivered three straight balanced budgets.

Another proud highlight of Michael's, Mr. Speaker, was the significant change he was part of as Aboriginal Affairs Minister in the relationship that we have between the province and our First Nations people. He was a key partner toward the development of a new relationship with the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia based on partnership, respect and mutual understanding.

Mr. Speaker, Michael was a tireless promoter of his constituency, without doubt. He was so proud of the many beautiful and historic communities included in the area, as well as their citizens and heritage, and worked to enhance the constituency at each and every turn. However, as noted by friends, family and admirers in the last while, what was dearest to him was certainly his marriage to Cindy, his boys, Matthew and Daniel, and his family. Regardless of how busy he was he always found time to be a dad, a husband, and a son.

His life has left a mark, I believe, on the province and on us all. I was so proud to be at his side when we dedicated the new justice centre in Bridgewater in his name - a tangible testament to his life's work. Michael's pride in our province, his community and family, as well as his devotion to duty, was second to none.

Mr. Speaker, following the comments of my colleagues, I would ask for a moment of silence to recognize Michael.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, I rise to respond to the Premier's statement with respect to Minister Baker. I want to thank him for his comments. I have thanked him previously for his comments at the service for Michael, but also for the comments that he made in the press after Michael's death. They were heartfelt, profound and I thought reflected the feelings not only of the Progressive Conservative caucus, but of all members in this House and I thanked him for that.

All of us knew Michael in various ways and as it happens, Michael Baker and I walked through the doors of this House at the same time - we were elected in the same general election - but we also walked through the doors of Dalhousie University at the same time. In fact, I first met him during frosh week at the university, which you might understand is a tumultuous time in the lives of young men. I remember having great conversations with him at that time and after we kind of reconnected back here sitting in the Opposition benches, I had many, many fabulous conversations with him.

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For Michael, politics was like oxygen. It was something that he needed as part of his life, he liked every part of it. He liked the legislative part, he liked the public policy part, he liked the constituency part, he loved the political strategy - he loved to figure out how to outdo his opponents. I was on the receiving end of that more than one time, but I never minded. It was always great to be able to have that kind of relationship with a person who, although they sat on the other side of the House, was truly a democrat, somebody who truly believes in the purpose for why we are here.

With that, we will all miss Michael Baker and we, of course, have extended our sympathy and condolences to his family. Thank you.

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

[2:15 p.m.]

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am honoured to rise on behalf of my colleagues in the Liberal caucus to remember and pay tribute to our friend and former colleague, the Honourable Michael Baker.

As the Premier mentioned, there is a noticeable absence in the House today. Even though Michael is no longer with us, his memory will guide our work here in the Legislature and we will continue to see his fingerprints on our public policy and public institutions for years to come.

Since first elected in 1998, Michael was a strong voice for the people of Lunenburg and worked diligently for the opportunities for his community, a community he was very proud to call his home. He was elected four times - a testament to his work ethic and the character of the man. Michael Baker was a strong voice for all Nova Scotians. He was a pillar for his government and his views were respected across Party lines. As a member of the Executive Council and as the Minister of Finance, he has made a lasting imprint on our province.

As I so often say, most people enter public life because they sincerely want to make a difference. The members of this Legislature may differ in our approach, but we all want to make this province a better place for today and for the next generation. Michael Baker personified that spirit of public service. He did not waiver from his commitment to his constituents and to his government and, through those dark and difficult days, he showed up for his work and carried on his duties with professionalism. He served as an example for all of us.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with his wife, Cindy, and their sons, Matthew and Daniel. I know how proud Michael was of his children and I believe they are

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indeed his greatest legacy. Michael Baker was a great Nova Scotian, a respected member of this Legislature, and someone who we should all be proud to say that we served with.

MR. SPEAKER: Before I ask the members to stand, Michael was also very active in the Council of State Governors and the State of Connecticut General Assembly has sent the following in memory: "Be it hereby known to all that the Connecticut General Assembly extends its sincerest condolences and expressions of sympathies to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly on the passing of Michael G. Baker." It was introduced by representative Bob Godfrey of the 110^th District; representative Pamela Sawyer, the 55^th District; and Senator Nathaniel Harp, the 10^th District, on this 2^nd day of March, 2009. The original has been forwarded to his family so that they can have that as a memorial of Michael. If we could all now stand for a moment of silence, please.

[A moment of silence was observed.]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you.

I would like to advise all those in the gallery and in the House that cellphones and other such devices should be turned off or the individual should please leave.

GOVERNMENT NOTICES OF MOTION

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

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

Whereas an armed gunman hijacked CanJet Flight 918 on the tarmac of Montego Bay, Jamaica, on April 19^th; and

Whereas the pilot, Nova Scotian Captain James Murray and his crew are being hailed as heroes for the courage and composure in the face of one of the most harrowing scenarios for passengers, pilots, and flight attendants; and

Whereas Captain Murray and his crew have been widely praised for persuading the gunman to free all 159 passengers and two crew members and avoiding a terrible tragedy;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House commend Captain James Murray and his courageous crew for their professionalism and bravery under unimaginable circumstances and thank them for acting to keep all passengers on Flight 918 safe.

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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 Minister of Finance.

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall:

(1) read and table the message from Her Honour the Lieutenant Governor transmitting the Estimates of the Sums required for the service of the province for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2010, for the consideration of this House;

(2) table the Estimates Book;

(3) table the Crown Corporation business plans;

(4) table the Estimates and Crown Corporation business plan resolutions;

(5) deliver my Budget Speech; and

(6) move that the Estimates of Sums required for the service of the province for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2010, being Supply to be granted to Her Majesty and the Crown Corporation Business Plans be referred to the Committee of the Whole House on Supply.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable Minister of Labour and Workforce Development.

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

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Whereas the National Day of Mourning initiated by the Canadian Labour Congress in 1984 as a day to acknowledge the ultimate sacrifice of workers is recognized by more than 80 countries around the world; and

Whereas today we join families, co-workers and friends to remember those 29 workers who were killed on the job and honour those injured; and

Whereas in light of this sobering statistic, we offer not only our sympathies but our collective commitment to do better;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House join the people of Nova Scotia in redoubling their work towards safer and healthier workplaces in Nova Scotia.

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 favor of the motion please say Aye. Contrary minded, Nay.

The motion is carried.

The honorable Minister of Justice on an introduction.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We have some very special guests with us today in your gallery joining us and indeed I would like to introduce them and ask them as I read out their name if they would stand so we can acknowledge our distinguished guests.

Joining us today we have Chief Frank Beazley of the Halifax Regional Police; we have Chief Delaney Chisholm of the New Glasgow Police; we have Chief Gary Copeland, President of the Nova Scotia Chiefs of Police Association and the Chief of Springhill Police; Chief Robert White of the Trenton Police Service; we have the Assistant Commissioner Steve Graham, Commanding Officer for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Nova Scotia and Staff Sergeant Major Rick Chadwick, NCO in Charge of Deportment and Protocol for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Nova Scotia. Mr. Speaker, I would ask all of colleagues in House to give a warm welcome to our distinguished guests. (Standing Ovation)

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Thank you Mr. Speaker and if I could just note that tomorrow is a great occasion for policing in Nova Scotia as Chief Myles Burke will be installed officially as the Chief of Police in the change of command ceremony for the Cape Breton Regional Police Service.

MR. SPEAKER: The honorable Minister of Justice.

RESOLUTION NO. 6489

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

Whereas the police services provided in our communities by municipal police services and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police contribute to just, safe and secure communities in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas police services in Nova Scotia work co-operatively with each other, with departments of government and many individuals and organizations to provide police services; and

Whereas the work of all those who provide police services deserves the respect, appreciation and recognition of this House and of all Nova Scotians;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House support the proclamation of May 2009 as Police Month in Nova Scotia.

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 responsible for Military Relations.

RESOLUTION NO. 6490

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

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Whereas Rear-Admiral William Moss Landymore was a proud and distinguished member of the Royal Navy and the Royal Canadian Navy and served in 13 ships during the Second World War; and

Whereas Admiral Landymore, serving in HMCS Fraser, took part in the evacuation of allied forces and diplomats following the fall of France and as the commanding officer of HMCS Iroquois, conducted the daylight bombardment of the main North Korean railway line near Songjin during the Korean Conflict; and

Whereas in the 1960s, Admiral Landymore led the efforts to preserve the distinct identity and skills of Royal Canadian Navy's personnel during the transformation to unify the Canadian Forces;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge Admiral Landymore's heroic contributions to Canada's naval victories at sea and his postwar efforts to maintain Canada's naval tradition practices, as his ashes are committed to the sea from HMCS Toronto later today.

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 for the Public Service Commission on an introduction.

HON. LEONARD GOUCHER: I'd like to welcome, from the house up the hill, two individuals here in the House today. First of all Councillor Debbie Hum, District 16 for Rockingham-Wentworth, and also with her is Deputy Mayor David Hendsbee, representing District 3. (Applause) It's great to have you in the House and thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

The honourable Minister of the Public Service Commission.

RESOLUTION NO. 6491

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

Whereas staff from the Public Service Commission came together with other government employees on March 28^th to participate in Bowl for Kids Sake; and

Whereas the Public Service Commission's team raised more than $1,000 for the event; and

Whereas all the proceeds go to help the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization here in metro;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize the efforts of these employees, as well as all government employees who took part to help the children in our communities.

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.

RESOLUTION NO. 6492

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

Whereas this year the world took time to honour Yom HaShoah. on April 21^st; and

Whereas in Halifax, under the leadership of the Atlantic Jewish Council, Nova Scotians joined with Jewish communities throughout the world in the public recitation of names of Jewish victims of the Holocaust; and

Whereas this annual ceremony is a poignant remembrance of the senseless and tragic loss of lives;

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Therefore be it resolved that this House stand for a moment of silence to commemorate the six million Jews whose lives were extinguished during the Nazi regime, and take this moment to recall the words of one of the young victims, Anne Frank, who wrote, "How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."

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.

Please stand.

[A moment of silence was observed.]

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you.

The honourable Minister of Agriculture.

RESOLUTION NO. 6493

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

Whereas the Nova Scotia Agricultural College will hold convocation ceremonies tomorrow in Truro; and

Whereas 142 graduates will receive their degrees; and

Whereas these graduates represent the future of agriculture in our province, in the Atlantic Region, and in the country;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the 142 graduates of the Nova Scotia Agricultural College and wish them the best in their careers.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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[2:30 p.m.]

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. 6494

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

Whereas when a crime occurs it doesn't affect just one person, but their family members too; and

Whereas crime victims need to know that there are laws in place to help them; and

Whereas National Victims of Crime Awareness Week, April 26 to May 2, 2009, offers an opportunity for the community to raise awareness about victims' issues and services and laws in place to help victims and their families;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House do hereby proclaim April 26^th to May 2^nd as Victims of Crime Awareness Week in the Province of Nova Scotia.

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.

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The honourable Minister of Health Promotion and Protection.

RESOLUTION NO. 6495

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

Whereas each year we recognize the volunteers selected by their peers in communities at the Provincial Volunteer Awards; and

Whereas we also recognize the over 377,000 volunteers across the province who give over 47 million hours of their time every year; and

Whereas our province will continue its long tradition of paying tribute to those who give their time and energy to improving the lives of others;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House acknowledge the importance of all volunteers, their commitment, and ongoing dedication.

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 responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women Act.

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, may I make an introduction before I do my resolution?

MR. SPEAKER: Please do.

MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: We have three guests in our east gallery today from the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. We have Liz Chisholm, who is our past chair and continues to represent the Highland region on the council; Jean d'Entremont is the incoming chair - Jean was inducted in the Red Chamber earlier today - she represents the South Shore

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region; and we have our Executive Director, Brigitte Neumann, who has joined us as well. If we could extend a warm welcome to our guests. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women Act.

RESOLUTION NO. 6496

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 the Advisory Council on the Status of Women has been working since 1977 to advance equality, fairness, and dignity for women in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the advisory council's successes are due to hundreds of dedicated individuals, in all their diversity, including council members and members of the agency's committees and working groups representing Nova Scotia women; and

Whereas Liz Chisholm, council chair from 2007 to 2009, welcomed the first Acadian chair, Jean d'Entremont, at a reception in the Red Chamber today;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Liz Chisholm and Jean d'Entremont, both long-time and dedicated members of the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of 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 Minister of Education.

RESOLUTION NO. 6497

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

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Whereas C.J. Hubley of Forest Heights Community School participated in the Options and Opportunities program and through that program has become the first youth apprentice on the South Shore; and

Whereas the Options and Opportunities program provides students with the chance to gain valuable knowledge through workplace experience while still in high school; and

Whereas Mr. Hubley has overcome significant personal obstacles to become a shining example of perseverance and success;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House sincerely commend C.J. Hubley for being an inspiration to Nova Scotian students, and for demonstrating that it is possible to exchange challenges for success in life through hard work and dedication.

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 Health.

RESOLUTION NO. 6498

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

Whereas April is Parkinson's Awareness Month and the theme for 2009 is: Everything is harder when your body turns against you; and

Whereas the results of Parkinson's disease, such as trembling, fatigue, and depression, make it difficult for a person to move or even to communicate; and

Whereas April is a perfect time for re-energizing efforts to create a brighter future for the more than 100,000 Canadians, including 8,400 Maritimers, with Parkinson's disease;

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Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House join me in marking Parkinson's Awareness Month in Canada, and in helping to spread understanding of Parkinson's disease and its impact on people's lives.

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

Bill No. 240 - Entitled an Act to Permit the Expenditure of Surpluses Generated by Offshore Offset Revenues. (Hon. James Muir)

AN HON. MEMBER: Call it for a vote.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Before we can call for a vote, we probably have to get it tabled.

Bill No. 241 - Entitled an Act to Create a Community Lands Trust to Protect Significant Land in Nova Scotia. (Mr. Darrell Dexter)

Bill No. 242 - Entitled an Act to Assist in Economic Growth and Provide Opportunities for Small Businesses in Nova Scotia. (Mr. Stephen McNeil)

Bill No. 243 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2000. The Agricultural Marshland Conservation Act. (Hon. Mark Parent)

Bill No. 244 - Entitled an Act to Establish a Transportation and Accommodation Subsidy Program for Out-of-Province Medical Referrals. (Mr. Darrell Dexter)

Bill No. 245 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 250 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Land Titles Clarification Act. (Hon. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson)

Bill No. 246 - Entitled an Act to Keep Hospital Emergency Departments Open. (Mr. Darrell Dexter)

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Bill No. 247 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 8 of the Acts of 1995-96. The Internal Trade Agreement Implementation Act. (Hon. Murray Scott)

Bill No. 248 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 377 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Public Service Superannuation Act. (Hon. James Muir)

Bill No. 249 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 340 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Pension Benefits Act. (Hon. Mark Parent)

Bill No. 250 - Entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 155 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Executive Council Act; and Chapter 376 of the Revised Statutes of 1989. The Public Service Act. (Hon. Murray Scott)

Bill No. 251 - Entitled an Act Respecting the Designation of Registered Reflexology Therapists. (Hon. Mark Parent)

Bill No. 252 - Entitled an Act to Enable the Village of Canning to Transfer Certain Lands to the Canning Library and Heritage Association. (Hon. Mark Parent, as a private member.)

[2:45 p.m.]

MR. SPEAKER: Ordered that these bills be read a second time on a future day.

NOTICES OF MOTION

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

RESOLUTION NO. 6499

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

Whereas the current government said it could not answer questions or make plans about the economy until there was a federal budget but that federal budget was tabled three months ago; and

Whereas the current budget then said that the economic climate made it difficult to prepare a budget but all other provincial budgets have been completed for weeks now and most were done before the end of March; and

Whereas this Spring session finally assembled, this Progressive Conservative Government has not even confirmed a date for the presentation of the 2009 budget;

[Page 6666]

Therefore be it resolved that this string of excuses for work not done shows that the Premier was telling the truth when he said in early March that the next election is the only thing that he is focusing on. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable Leader of the Liberal Party.

RESOLUTION NO. 6500

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

Whereas Dave Wilson began his career in broadcasting in 950 CHER in Sydney and moved to ATV Sydney and Saint John, New Brunswick; and

Whereas in 1979, Dave returned to Sydney and joined CJCB as the New Director and for 13 years hosted an open line program called Talk Back; and

Whereas in 1998 Talk Back was cancelled, leaving Dave with the opportunity to run for public office, Mr. Speaker, and 11 years later authored a book, Talk Back: Surviving Open-Line Radio in Cape Breton;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House congratulate our colleague, Dave Wilson, and offer him our best wishes and success for his new book. (Applause)

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

Is it agreed? (Interruption)

I would ask that one more time.

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.

[Page 6667]

RESOLUTION NO. 6501

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

Whereas the East Coast Music Awards annually showcase the amazing talent from within our region; and

Whereas this year Inverness County native Aaron MacDonald was nominated for Newcap Radio Pop Recording of the Year, along with other talented East Coast artists such as Gordie Sampson; and

Whereas his CD, John Prine's Advice, has received great praise and Aaron has been called a voice to remember. His performance is described as chocolate for the soul;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House applaud this talented musician for his nomination, for his continued success in a very competitive industry and also congratulate him on the impending addition to his family of a third child.

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.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Before my resolution I would to make an introduction to the House. In the west gallery I'd like to introduce to the House Lenore Zann, internationally-known actor and a candidate in the next election, whenever that might happen to be, if the House would make her welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

RESOLUTION NO. 6502

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

Whereas the HMC Dockyard serves as our country's East Coast Naval Base and is one of North America's oldest defence bases, founded in 1759; and

Whereas HMC Dockyard has a rich history, having served as an outpost for the British Empire and Royal Navy since 1749; and

Whereas on May 31, 2009, HMC Dockyard will be honoured on its 250^th Anniversary with a special celebration hosted by the Maritime Museum and the Canadian Navy;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly extend thanks and appreciation to the Maritime Museum, the Canadian Navy, including the Stadacona Band, and all others involved in the special events celebrating the 250^th Anniversary of HMC Dockyard.

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. 6503

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 numerous occasions the NDP have stated that a timely House session and timely budget are needed in these uncertain economic times; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Liberal caucus made the commitment to setting fixed House session start dates and fixed budget dates, the Leader of the Official Opposition and his Party were hesitant to commit to such actions - making various excuses; and

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Whereas this is further proof that the NDP likes to talk the talk but won't always walk the walk;

Therefore be it resolved that both the Progressive Conservatives and the NDP commit today to a fixed legislative calendar as proposed by the Leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Victoria-The Lakes.

MR. KEITH BAIN: Mr. Speaker, if I may do an introduction before I begin my resolution?

MR. SPEAKER: Please do.

MR. BAIN: Mr. Speaker, in your gallery is Kevin Saccary, a councillor from the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, who is here today to view the procedures of the House. I ask the Legislative Assembly members to welcome Kevin here. (Applause)

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

Whereas the Iona Volunteer Fire Department proudly represents their community during times of crisis; and

Whereas the Iona Volunteer Fire Department first began operations in 1949 and will be celebrating a special 50^th Anniversary on Saturday, May 2^nd; and

Whereas the Iona Volunteer Fire Department is under the exceptional and capable direction of Chief Colin MacNeil;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House of Assembly recognize the compassion and generosity exhibited and demonstrated by members and executive of the Iona Volunteer Fire Department, both current and past, over this last half century as the community celebrates a special and richly deserving 50^th Anniversary this weekend.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

[Page 6670]

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 Dartmouth South-Portland Valley.

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

Whereas Dartmouth resident and retired Navy captain, Bryan Elson, recently published his first book describing the personal life, career and historical significance of Benjamin Hallowell, a Royal Navy officer during the American and French Revolutions; and

Whereas Bryan Elson researched his subject for 10 years, including his brief stay in Halifax before joining the Royal Navy as a 16-year-old midshipman rising to the rank of admiral; and

Whereas Mr. Elson also serves as the current director of the Canadian Naval Memorial Trust;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Bryan Elson of Dartmouth upon the publication of Nelson's Yankee Captain: The Life of Boston Loyalist Sir Benjamin Hallowell and thank him for his many contributions to his community, province and country.

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.

[Page 6671]

The honourable member for Preston.

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

Whereas on November 25, 2008, the Premier called to a close the Fall sitting of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, declining to provide an economic update to the citizens of this province; and

Whereas in the six months since then countless businesses have filed for bankruptcy and hundreds of Nova Scotians have been left searching for work; and

Whereas the Premier and this government have sat on their hands refusing to table a financial plan for this province in a timely manner;

Therefore be it resolved that the province explain to Nova Scotians why nine other provinces have been able to bring forward both financial updates and budgets and we have not.

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.

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

Whereas the Cabot Comets Bantam Girls Basketball Team captured the 2008-09 Basketball Nova Scotia Division Three Championship in Windsor on March 27^th to March 29^th; and

[Page 6672]

Whereas the Comets finished the tournament with the record of 4-1, including a thrilling 38-35 win over the West Hants Shooting Stars to advance to Sunday afternoon's gold medal game where they defeated the Sackville Storm 36 to 21 in the provincial gold medal final; and

Whereas Michaela Ashford of the Comets was named tournament MVP while teammate Kelsey Dixon was named to the tournament's All-StarTeam, in recognition of their exceptionally strong play throughout the entire weekend;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the tremendous work ethic of the 2008-09 Cabot Comets Division 3 Girl's Bantam Basketball Team in winning this year's Nova Scotia championship, and wish them every future 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 Hants East.

RESOLUTION NO. 6508

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

Whereas a career in public service can lead to groundbreaking achievements; and

Whereas Joan Gloade of Millbrook First Nation is a social worker who has helped build Mi'kmaq Family and Children's Services into a widely accepted social agency; and

Whereas in Winnipeg on March 6, 2009, Joan was honoured with the National Aboriginal Achievement Award;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Joan Gloade on being named recipient of the National Aboriginal Achievement Award and wish Joan further success in her public service career.

[Page 6673]

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 Clare.

RESOLUTION NO. 6509

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

Whereas one of the roles of the Auditor General of Nova Scotia is to bring forward meaningful recommendations on how best to improve our province; and

Whereas in recent years, the Premier and his government have shown disregard for the Auditor General's hard work and his well-thought-out findings; and

Whereas the Auditor General's latest report supports this claim, stating that of the 146 recommendations made in June and December of 2006, only 39 per cent have been implemented;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier explain to Nova Scotians why his government does not feel the need to follow the Auditor General's meaningful advice.

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.

[Page 6674]

The honourable member for Hants West.

MR. CHUCK PORTER: Mr. Speaker, may I be permitted to make an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER: Please do.

MR. PORTER: In the east gallery this afternoon, I'd like to welcome Mr. Vince Upshaw and his son, Jordan. If they'd rise and receive a warm welcome this afternoon. (Applause) Nice to have you here, gentlemen.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Hants West.

RESOLUTION NO. 6510

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 theme of National Volunteer Week 2009, celebrated April 19^th to 25^th in Nova Scotia, was recognizing people in their communities who take action and solve problems; and

Whereas Renda Vandertoorn is one of 377,000 active volunteers across Nova Scotia and her list of accomplishments and activities in the Town of Hantsport remain truly amazing, as she and her husband Casey began a youth basketball league which has now grown to over 50 teams, while Renda has also served as president of both the Hantsport Minor Basketball and Minor Soccer Associations; and

Whereas besides her involvement in athletics, Renda has found the time to serve on the Town of Hantsport's Memorial Community Centre Board of Directors, as well as a committee member for the town's centennial year and volunteer for July 1^st celebrations;

Therefore be it resolved that MLAs in the Nova Scotia Legislature applaud the dynamic efforts of one Renda Vandertoorn for her recognition by the Town of Hantsport as their 2009 Volunteer of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

[3:00 p.m.]

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 6675]

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. 6511

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

Whereas Mona MacDonald of Pictou County wrote and published a book entitled Anchored in Time, about the lives of people who live along the Northumberland Shore in communities such as Toney River and Seafoam; and

Whereas in the writing of this book, Ms. MacDonald has combined her own research with information gleaned from interviewing 75 individuals; and

Whereas Ms. MacDonald states that she wrote the book in the hope to preserve the history and culture of the people who have gone on before us;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend Mona MacDonald on preserving the history of the lives of those who lived on the Northumberland Shore and congratulate her on the launch of her new book, Anchored in Time.

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 honorable member for Digby-Annapolis.

RESOLUTION NO. 6512

[Page 6676]

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

Whereas for many months we have seen tourism numbers continue to drop; and

Whereas despite the Minister of Tourism's continuing sense of optimism, the situation fails to improve; and

Whereas this government and this Premier committed to doubling tourism revenue by the year 2012, a goal that will likely fall short;

Therefore be it resolved that the current Minister of Tourism inform Nova Scotians how he and this Progressive Conservative Government plan to put Nova Scotia tourism back on track.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

I hear several Noes.

The notion is tabled.

The honorable Minister of Public Service Commission.

RESOLUTION NO. 6513

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

Whereas volunteers are people from all walks of life and all ages with common desire to make a difference in their community and in their own life by giving of their time and expertise; and

Whereas volunteers in Bedford are the life-blood of our community, providing support in virtually every aspect to society including health, education, social services, youth, sports, recreation, culture, the arts and the environment; and

Whereas 31 volunteers from Bedford were recognized on April 5, 2009 by the Bedford Volunteer Recognition Committee for their selfless act of giving themselves to their community;

[Page 6677]

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize the invaluable efforts made by all volunteers in their communities and thank the Bedford volunteers for their contribution to the community and the people of HRM.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member for Queens.

RESOLUTION NO. 6514

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

Whereas the central electronic point of information is important to residents of rural communities; and

Whereas business and tourism development relies heavily on the Internet for information and research; and

Whereas this past March, the North Queens Board of Trade launched their Web site, discovercaledonia.ca;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize John Budgell for his part in creating this website and providing a valuable tool that will provide information to prospective visitors, showcase the community as a great place to live and work and will serve as a resource for local residents with up-to-date information on events, facilities, and services.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 6678]

It is agreed.

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

The motion is carried.

The honourable member and author from Glace Bay.

RESOLUTION NO. 6515

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 throughout the Fall sitting of this House, the Premier and his Cabinet told Nova Scotians that we were well prepared for an economic downturn and that we would not feel the effects for six to eight months; and

Whereas statistics tell a very different story with bankruptcy rates and the unemployment rate increasing to record levels; and

Whereas the Premier's words of assurance mean very little to the thousands of Nova Scotians struggling to find employment;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier tell this House of Assembly whether or not he stands by his previous statements on this matter.

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 Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

RESOLUTION NO. 6516

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

[Page 6679]

Whereas the Musquodoboit Valley Health Centre Auxiliary located in the beautiful Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley has been holding "Loonie Drives", bake sales and volunteering for many years in support of our deeply cherished health centre; and

Whereas the Musquodoboit Valley Health Centre Auxiliary for more than the past 15 years has carried out fundraising activities that have contributed $73,000 to the Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital and $20,000 to Braeside Home for Extended Care; and

Whereas these valuable donations are very significant considering the size of the catchment area and speaks volumes about the auxiliary and their support to their community, the Musquodoboit Valley;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the Musquodoboit Valley Health Centre Auxiliary and wish them well as they embark on the next "Loonie Drive" throughout the month of May.

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 Shelburne.

MR. STERLING BELLIVEAU: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future

day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas the Halifax Rainmen brought a ray of sunshine and hope to more than 400 grieving students, staff and community by extending an invitation to watch the Rainmen compete with the Montreal Sasquatch in the Premier Basketball League at the Halifax Metro Centre on March 28, 2009; and

[Page 6680]

Whereas being more than just a basketball game this event was a memorial tribute to the late Shannon Knowles, a Grade 8 student who passed away on March 11, 2009, after a 14-month battle with cancer; and

Whereas Shannon loved both basketball and the Halifax Rainmen, where they faithfully visited her while she was receiving treatment at the IWK Health Centre and the team wore her Number 91 on pink T-shirts during the game warm up;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend the Halifax Rainmen for bringing a ray of sunshine and hope to more than 400 grieving students, staff and community by extending an invitation to watch the Rainmen compete with the Montreal Sasquatch in the Premier Basketball League, at the Halifax Metro Centre on March 28, 2009.

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: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to draw the attention of the House to the west gallery. I would like to introduce Kelly Regan who is here. Kelly is our candidate in Bedford-Birch Cove, as well as Patrick Doyle, who is here from Hammonds Plains in Upper Sackville, who will be our candidate whenever the election may be called. I ask for the House to give them a warm welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future day I shall

move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas despite his claims that he does not want an election, the Premier has given the go-ahead to the campaign slogan, Proven Record. Economy First; and

[Page 6681]

Whereas the words "Economy First" . . .(Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order please. The honourable member for Kings West has the floor. (Interruption) Order, please. Order, please. The honourable member for Kings West has the floor. Would you like to start over?

MR. GLAVINE: Whereas the words "Economy First" are quite ironic, considering we are one of the last provinces to bring forward an economic update, we are the last Legislature to sit and we will be the last province to introduce a budget; and

Whereas the only thing which has been proven is that this Premier is completely incapable of managing this province during an economic crisis;

Therefore be it resolved the Premier replace the words "Economy First" with "Economy Last", to give a more accurate description of his government's priorities.

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 Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

[Page 6682]

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

Whereas Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his colleagues have been busy working with provinces like ours, with matching infrastructure funds to help sustain and build our economy; and

Whereas he is busy with this and regular Parliamentary business, the Prime Minister will probably have little time to celebrate his birthday today; and

Whereas he is turning 50, a significant milestone for this country's National Leader;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House send our congratulations to the Prime Minister on his 50^th birthday and wish him well as he continues to be the Leader of our great country, Canada.

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 Timberlea-Prospect.

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, I hereby give notice that on a future

day I shall move the adoption of the following resolution:

Whereas Timberlea resident Barry Bastow, Warrant Officer with the Reserves and a member of the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Service, recently returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan; and

Whereas while in Afghanistan, Barry worked as a member of the Kandahar provincial reconstruction team; and

[Page 6683]

Whereas Warrant Officer Bastow's dedication and service are exemplary;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature commend and thank Warrant Officer Barry Bastow for his service to our country, with best wishes in his future endeavours.

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 East on an introduction.

MR. CLARRIE MACKINNON: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. In the west gallery I would like to make an acknowledgment of the presence of my son, who is here for the first time, witnessing our Assembly. He works in the oil industry and has been from the Gulf of Mexico to the Barent Sea and is now working off Africa. I'm very pleased and proud that he is with us today. His name is Kent MacKinnon. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth North on an introduction.

MR. TREVOR ZINCK: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to draw the House's attention to your gallery, Mr. Speaker, where we're joined today by a constituent of mine, Mr. Sean Tufford. He is the Director of Business Development currently for M5 Marketing and a proponent for more safety in our crosswalks on Woodland Avenue. So please, if the House can give him a warm welcome. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Preston.

RESOLUTION NO. 6521

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

Whereas in these times of economic recession Nova Scotians look to a Premier and his Cabinet for direction and leadership; and

[Page 6684]

Whereas unfortunately all Nova Scotians are seeing is a Premier who has only recently come to the realization that the Nova Scotia economy is, in fact, in trouble; and

Whereas Nova Scotians deserve better from their government, a Premier who is at the front of the pack on issues, not one who is content with coming in last;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier apologize to Nova Scotians for his inability to respond to the current economic recession in a timely manner.

MR. SPEAKER: The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage.

RESOLUTION NO. 6522

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

Whereas Curtis Caron, a 9-year-old member of the Shearwater Shannon Minor Hockey program, has the same goals as every young hockey player in Canada but works especially hard to overcome his physical challenge of a partially paralyzed hand; and

Whereas minor hockey coach Dale Shewchuck of Shearwater recognized these challenges and set out to offer an especially inspiring experience for young Curtis as a hockey player in his program; and

[3:15 p.m.]

Whereas Dale organized a trip to Sarnia, Ontario, for Curtis and his family, enabling Curtis the opportunity to meet Sarnia Legionnaires and Canadian National Men's Amputee Hockey Team member Scott Stafford, for inspiration and encouragement;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend Dale Shewchuck for his ongoing contribution to the Shearwater Minor Hockey Program and for taking steps above and beyond the norm to meet the needs of a young player, Curtis Caron, with special and particular challenges.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 6685]

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. 6523

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 tee-up news release for the Spring sitting of the House of Assembly, the Leader of the Official Opposition stated that his Party would bring in legislation to help solve the ER closure crisis in this province; and

Whereas the basis of the proposed NDP legislation is to require health boards to host public meetings to discuss ways to keep ERs open; and

Whereas Nova Scotians are looking for strong leadership and real solutions to health care issues in this province and not just an opportunity to have a chat about them;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of the House of Assembly welcome the NDP to the conversation on ER closures, with the hope that perhaps they will bring forward a more concrete idea in the future.

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 Cape Breton Nova.

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

[Page 6686]

Whereas St. John Ambulance medical responders are renowned for volunteering their time at numerous events throughout the community; and

Whereas Father Roman Dusanowsky, priest of the Holy Ghost Ukrainian Church in Whitney Pier, is one such responder; and

Whereas Father Dusanowsky was presented the Priory Vote of Thanks Award for his outstanding contributions to the local medical responders unit;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Father Roman Dusanowsky for his dedication and commitment to the St. John Ambulance.

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 Clare.

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

Whereas throughout our province Nova Scotians are losing their jobs and businesses are filing for bankruptcy; and

Whereas the loss of well-paying jobs is having a devastating impact on the local economy, especially throughout rural Nova Scotia; and

Whereas instead of focusing on his re-election campaign, this Premier needs to focus his attention on what really matters to the people of this province;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier and his government commit to real action on the economy and not just political posturing.

[Page 6687]

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 East.

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

Whereas there are many children in Nova Scotia whose parents can't provide for them as well as they wish that they could; and

Whereas providing warm pajamas can help keep children warm during winter nights if there isn't enough heat in their home; and

Whereas Louise Downs of House Whisperer Cleaning & Organizing in Elmsdale collected over 400 pairs of pajamas as well as cash donations on behalf of the Salvation Army for distribution to those families in need;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Louise Downs of Elmsdale for her efforts to keep Nova Scotian children in need warm at night.

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.

[Page 6688]

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

Whereas on April 28^th, the Premier announced that Bill Casey would become Nova Scotia's representative in the nation's capital; and

Whereas Mr. Casey has done a great deal for the province during his time as a Member of Parliament, including his fight to keep the Atlantic Accord in its original state; and

Whereas the Premier's newfound confidence in Mr. Casey's ability to represent the interests of Nova Scotia is a far cry from the last federal election when the Premier stated his preference for the Conservative candidate, Joel Bernard, in the riding of Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley;

Therefore be it resolved that the Premier explain to Nova Scotians why he felt Mr. Casey was not good enough to represent Nova Scotia last Fall, but is now.

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 Queens.

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

Whereas physical activity is so important for the health and well-being of our youth in Queens County and skating is one of those wonderful activities; and

Whereas athletes from the Queens County Blades spent several days at the Skate Dartmouth Invitational in February; and

[Page 6689]

Whereas hundreds of athletes from across the Maritimes competed in this event;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Kieran Clattenburg for her outstanding performances which earned her a gold medal in the Pre-Juvenile Ladies category.

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.

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 these uncertain economic times, Nova Scotians need to know that they will be able to weather the storm; and

Whereas from one end of this province to the other, Nova Scotians are losing their jobs and businesses are closing up shop; and

Whereas instead of taking a leading role in the fight to get our province back on track, the Premier and his caucus have sat on their hands hoping things will get better;

Therefore be it resolved that this government provide real solutions for our economy, instead of playing political games.

Mr. Speaker, I request waiver of notice.

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

Is it agreed?

[Page 6690]

I hear several Noes.

The notice is tabled.

The honourable member for Shelburne.

[Page 6691]

RESOLUTION NO. 6530

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

Whereas 12-year-old Kelsie Smith of Woods Harbour was recognized by the Tri-County Regional School Board during Remembrance Day services, for her contributions of vocal presentations on November 11, 2008; and

Whereas Kelsie has participated in the Rising Star Talent Search at the Mariners Centre and the Barrington Idol where she was awarded first place; and

Whereas Kelsie was presented with a Certificate of Recognition by board member Andrea Huskilson-Newell during an assembly for the Positive Effective Behaviour Support Program;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Kelsie Smith of Woods Harbour for being recognized by the Tri-County Regional School Board for her contribution of vocal presentations on November 11, 2008.

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 Timberlea-Prospect.

RESOLUTION NO. 6531

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

Whereas Cassidy McCarthy, a student of Atlantic Memorial School in Shad Bay, played a prominent role in the promotion of Purple Day for Epilepsy Awareness in March of this year; and

[Page 6692]

Whereas through her efforts, Cassidy travelled to New York for the global launch of Purple Day on March 10, 2009; and

Whereas Cassidy's dedication and determination is a wonderful example for all of us;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Cassidy McCarthy of Shad Bay on her initiative of promoting epilepsy awareness and extend best wishes to her in her future endeavours.

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.

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, may I request that we revert to the order of business, Presenting and Reading Petitions, please?

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed?

It is agreed.

PRESENTING AND READING PETITIONS

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

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Thank you.

Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to introduce a petition on behalf of the residents of Digby County and it reads as follows:

"We, the undersigned are asking the Minister of Health for help in the Digby area. In this area patients must travel as long as 2 ½ hours per week for dialysis. This is at the Yarmouth hospital, that is overwhelmed with the

[Page 6693]

amount of patients they are treating. We, the undersigned are requesting dialysis treatment to be held in the Digby General Hospital."

It's signed by 717 individuals and I have also affixed my signature to the petition.

MR. SPEAKER: The petition is tabled.

The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, further to the notice that I have given you, I rise in accordance with Rule No. 43 and move that the business of the House be set aside at the moment of interruption for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance - the state of the provincial economy and the jobs it provides.

Nova Scotia relies for much of its wealth on exports to our nearest and greatest market, the United States. This week Americans learned that their gross domestic product has shrunk at an annual rate of 6.1 per cent and an equally bad decline in the fourth quarter of 2008. The Bank of Canada reported last week that the country's gross domestic product fell by 7.3 per cent in the first three months of the year and the bank told Canadians that this is the largest economic contraction since comparable records began being kept in 1961.

Just yesterday, Canadians learned that a record number of working men and women submitted Employment Insurance claims in February - claims increased by almost 19 per cent from January and only 43 per cent of those who lost their jobs are eligible for employment insurance. Layoffs, temporary shutdowns, permanent plant closures, receiverships, shrinking markets and falling prices face many Nova Scotia industries. The damage done to capital markets has had wide-ranging effects. People whose savings have lost value and whose pensions are under duress ask themselves how secure their job is and how easy it will be to find another one.

This House has not met for five months. There is no more urgent topic and no better place to discuss the ways in which the province can secure and create lasting jobs that our economy needs during the worldwide economic crisis.

MR. SPEAKER: I have received more than the two hours notice of the matter required under Rule 43. Under that rule I am required to decide whether the matter is proper to be discussed. After reviewing it and discussing it with the Clerks, I believe that it is a matter that should be discussed. So the motion is that the business of the House be set aside for the purpose of dealing with this issue, as described by the Leader of the NDP, at the hour of interruption. Does the House agree to give leave for the motion to be debated?

SOME HON. MEMBERS: Agreed.

[Page 6694]

MR. SPEAKER: It is agreed. The motion will then be debated at the hour of interruption and we will move forward from there. Thank you. We are now ready to move on to the Orders of the Day. The time is now 3:28 p.m. and we will go to 4:28 p.m. - it is 3:29 p.m. and we will go to 4:29 p.m.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

ORAL QUESTIONS PUT BY MEMBERS

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

PREM: BUDGET - LACK EXPLAIN

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. My question will be through you to the Premier. After Canadians saw the federal budget in January, provinces moved quickly to complete their own budgets. Between February 17^th and March 26^th, seven provincial budgets were presented and two more followed thereon. Yet today, the Premier's government refused to even set a date for Nova Scotia's budget. My question for the Premier is this - why, when people deserve genuine leadership and solid planning, is he the only Premier with no budget?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia will certainly stand out because we will have a balanced budget next week.

MR. DEXTER: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just recently Barack Obama marked 100 days of action since he has been President. This Premier can point to 93 days of inaction since the federal budget gave him the all-clear to bring forward his own plans.

[3:30 p.m.]

A month ago the Premier told reporters - and this is a direct quote, Mr. Speaker - that he was looking forward to the next election: That's the only place I'm focused on. The election is an urgent issue for this Premier but the question that many Nova Scotians are asking is this - why did the government come up with a complicated scheme to avoid presenting a budget, instead of having one ready in March like other provinces?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, we have prepared a budget, as I said, that will be balanced. We have also put forward plans with regard to our Building for Growth Plan, a plan which will see $1.9 billion invested in the people of this province, which will see 20,000 jobs created. Unlike the risky schemes of the NDP, which will bankrupt this province in the future if ever given the chance, our plan will put Nova Scotians to work today.

[Page 6695]

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, while Nova Scotians worried about their savings, their businesses, their jobs, their children, the Premier has been totally focused on the next election. He seems to think that his chances in that election will be better if he never has to present a budget, with audited estimates of revenue to the House of Assembly. This is a decision for the voters but I ask the Premier to tell Nova Scotians, why the Premier has made billions of dollars of promises without taking responsibility, by tabling a budget that shows just exactly how he expects to pay for it all?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, again I go back. If we listened to every single thing the NDP put forward, this province would have been in deficit year after year.

The NDP have no plan for the economy. The risky schemes of the NDP are very clear, they have no plan, while we on this side of the House have a plan, Building for Growth, which will see 20,000 people put to work. I have spoken to those individuals and they want that member to do the right thing and put his province first, not politics.

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

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. On October 31, 2008, I asked our Premier to put politics aside so that we could work together to come up with an economic plan. One month later, I asked our Premier to return to the Legislature to deal with the economic challenges being faced by Nova Scotians. On both occasions those requests were to put politics aside to come up with a plan and try to protect jobs in Nova Scotia. You, Premier, chose to protect your own. My question to the Premier is, six months have passed, why are we the last province in the country to call our Legislature and why are we the last province to bring forward a budget?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, we have a plan, Building for Growth, a $1.9 billion capital plan which will see 20,000 jobs created and maintained across our province. I hope that member, the Leader of the Liberal Party, and also the other Leader of the NDP, will do the right thing and support the government's budget and support Nova Scotia. Rather than put political interests first, let's do the right thing.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, we're the last Legislature to sit in Canada, we are the last province to introduce a budget, this is the last government to respond to the economic downturn and yet, instead of showing leadership, you are looking for someone else to blame. My question is, when will you admit that this has always been about you keeping your grip on power and had nothing to do with the jobs and the economy of Nova Scotia?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, we're all in this House to do the right thing and I believe the right thing - and Nova Scotians are saying it, the people of the province are saying

[Page 6696]

it, the business leaders are saying it, the other elected officials are saying it, the only two people that don't get it are the two Leaders on the other side.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I asked the Premier to allow us to work together to address the single biggest issue facing our province, the economy. The Premier said he didn't want our help; it's clear today, seven months later, he needed it. Now is the time for the Premier to tell Nova Scotians why he neglected the economy and jobs at a time when Nova Scotians needed leadership?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Liberal Party was calling on the government to put forward a capital stimulus plan. We said we were going to do so. We have done so. Now is his chance to stand in this House and support the government's direction to ensure that these jobs and opportunities are not lost. This morning, $422 million announced for the people of this province for universities, for the community college system, they get it, they understand the need for investment in those areas. Atlantic Gateway, the Port of Halifax understands the need to see that investment move forward. The Chamber of Commerce, in fact, they were quoted yesterday saying that the Chamber President, Valerie Payn, says now is not the time for an election. She says going to the polls will slow down the flow of stimulus money - and I will table that. She understands it and many others do too. They don't.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Leader of the Opposition.

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, you know that emergency rooms were closed for thousands of hours last year and for 10 years this government has failed to keep emergency rooms open. The Minister of Health now claims that she has a plan for the ER in her constituency, which came as a surprise to her own constituents, but the minister appears to have a casual attitude to the closures at many other ERs, she is in no rush to release a provincial plan.

My question for the Minister of Health is, why don't you address the severity of the ER crisis and release a plan to keep Nova Scotia emergency rooms open?

HON. KAREN CASEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the member opposite, it's true that we have situations in some of our emergency rooms where they are having closures. It's certainly nothing new, it is certainly not anything that I would take as "casual" but I do want to remind all members of the House that the circumstances in each of those particular emergency departments that cause the closures are different and it's not one solution for all, so I'm looking at the best solution for each one.

[Page 6697]

MR. DEXTER: Mr. Speaker, the importance of the ER in Tatamagouche and the dedication of the local health team I am well aware of. I also know that the other ERs are equally important. People's attention is very focused on public health concerns right now, as you might understand, yet this government has allowed the Fishermen's Memorial ER in Lunenburg to close this week, Pugwash, New Waterford, Parrsboro, the Northside General have also closed their ERs this week. My question to the minister is this, why doesn't the Minister of Health keep emergency rooms open when public health is such a priority?

MS. CASEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The member opposite has mentioned some of the emergency rooms that are experiencing closure. Just for the record, I would like to remind everyone in this House that I have continued my discussion with the DHA CEOs in particular, regarding the Digby closures, the Shelburne closures and Pugwash, so it is certainly not isolated and unique to mine but it is one of the others.

MR. DEXTER: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The minister knows, especially at this time, that Nova Scotians are concerned about keeping all of their ERs open, yet she says that she is only focused on one. So my final question then will be to the Premier; is the fact that your government has no plan to keep ERs open another reason why you are on the brink of calling an election without ever presenting a budget?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I stand by the minister and what she has done and other ministers. In fact, again a couple of the issues, dealing with a couple possibly solved during the past week. I want to add to that, when the government came out and the PHSOR Report came out and we supported moving forward on a rural health care strategy, every CAO across this province agreed with that go-forward. The only people who disagreed were the NDP.

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

JUSTICE: SENTENCING ERROR - RESPONSE

MR. WILLIAM ESTABROOKS: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To say that this past year was a tough one for the Minister of Justice would be a huge understatement. The minister wasn't even capable of getting his resignation accepted, which the Premier, of course, wouldn't accept. Now we learn that "a sentencing error" at the Burnside jail meant that an inmate spent an extra 60 days behind bars. This inmate was supposed to be released on February 20^th but he remained incarcerated until earlier last week.

The department's response, Mr. Speaker, we will let him off easy if he commits another crime. I want to repeat that, we will let him off easy if he commits another crime.

My question to the Minister of Justice, are you at all concerned that your department has just given an offender a free pass, should he commit another crime?

[Page 6698]

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. If the honourable member wants to get his facts straight and have a correct answer, a question, I'll answer it appropriately.

MR. ESTABROOKS: It's not just the member for Richmond, I guess. This is not a get out of jail free time, I hope. The minister can't keep people in jail who should be there, now he's telling people they can commit crimes and get away with them. What analysis has his department done to determine what crimes it has now allowed this person to commit without any fear of punishment? Just exactly what are those 60 days worth to this particular gentleman?

MR. CLARKE: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. In responding to the honourable member's question, as he knows, it's very difficult for the privacy matters with an offender but we do know that the person in question was there this time on eight charges that were convicted. The error occurred because of rather than a concurrent, they were listed as consecutive by Court Services, that the person under the care of the Central Nova was in the health unit, and in that facility was receiving the appropriate care, and I know that officials who have discussed this with the individual have been mindful of that, and yes, Mr. Speaker, officials have recognized that he has had a history, a repeat presence within the correctional system. It's not something we take lightly, and officials have dealt with it appropriately.

MR. ESTABROOKS: Mr. Speaker, to discuss this particular gentleman's difficulties with the system and the problems that he's had to face, consecutive or coincidental, is not the issue here. The issue is the response from the minister, which was nothing short of irresponsible.

Nova Scotia's justice system has become the punchline for bad jokes, but Nova Scotians aren't laughing. My question is pretty direct: shouldn't the minister's review - the review that's now underway, of why he can't keep offenders in jail - be expanded to consider his new practice of issuing get out of jail free cards under the same parameters that he is now reviewing?

MR. CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, it's not about the punchline; quite frankly, it is about the front lines where the NDP are in bad taste. We have dealt with our issues that have come up in the criminal justice system, we've dealt with it responsibly, we've been accountable and responsible for that. What he fails to talk about are all the successes that we have in Nova Scotia, the investments, the women and men that go to work every day to make Nova Scotia safer. The same member that voted against - the NDP took a risk in voting against investments, key investments, in our justice system and apparently are prepared to do it once again and leaving further risk, and again, the risky NDP are putting justice in jeopardy in this province.

[Page 6699]

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

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. In the Fall of 2008 the Premier stated that Nova Scotia's economy would not feel the effects of the economic downturn for six to eight months. Unfortunately for Nova Scotians, what he meant was that his government was unwilling to respond for six to eight months. My question to the Premier is, after months of waiting, why did you introduce a debt creation plan instead of working with the members of this House to create a real plan?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, it sounds to me as if the Leader of the Liberal Party is saying he's against investments in our health care system, against the investments required for our hospitals, in our schools. Which one of the schools is he against with respect to renovations or the new schools? Which highway in Nova Scotia is he against? These projects are not only needed in the short term, they're needed in the long term to position Nova Scotia and I'm not hearing any plan from the other side, while this side has a plan. I hear risky schemes by the NDP, with over 70 promises - over $2 billion worth of promises, promises that this province can't afford.

[3:45 p.m.]

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, the only plan from this Premier and this government is to increase our debt by $1.4 billion. To ask our children in 10 and 15 years to make decisions that we, that they, were unwilling to make - that they were unwilling to make. The answer the Premier just gave is cold comfort to more than 250 people who have lost their jobs in North Sydney from Precision Finished Components, to more than 300 people in New Minas with ACA Co-operative, to 45 people who were working at Pratt &Whitney here in Halifax, the over 45 people who lost their jobs from Fundy Gypsum. My question to the Premier is, what do you tell the hundreds of Nova Scotians who have lost their jobs while you've been watching from the sidelines?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, what the Leader of the Liberal Party is saying is that he is against a capital stimulus plan for the people of our province. How many thousand jobs is he willing to put aside simply for political interest? Twenty thousand jobs, Mr. Speaker. I'm not prepared to do so.

MR. MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I'm not willing to leave my responsibility and the job that I asked for to my children 10 and 15 years from now. We had a government that once

[Page 6700]

did that. That was the government of John Buchanan, and we today are suffering the sins of that government, and I will not, and our Party will not, ask our children to suffer the sins of this government. While this government has waited, 38 people have lost their jobs at C-Vision in Amherst; 67 people found themselves out of work at Acadian Mining in Colchester County; 60 people lost their jobs at Comeau Lumber in Clare. This government has been watching from the sidelines while jobs have been slipping away - refusing to show leadership and refusing to deliver a budget.

Today, Mr. Speaker, this government is introducing legislation to change the law retroactively to allow them to cover up their mismanagement in the province's finances. My question is, when are you going to stop playing politics with the jobs in this province and call the election that you've been looking for?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Liberal Party and the Leader of the NDP are prepared to see millions of dollars and lost opportunity from Ottawa. They are prepared to see thousands of jobs go by the wayside at a time when this province needs it. Nova Scotia continues to outperform Canada in job creation. The latest Statistics Canada labour report survey shows that Nova Scotia added over 4,000 jobs over March 2008 compared to a loss of 186,000 for Canada. Only Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan posted positive year-over-year employment gains. We're on the right track here in our province.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Queens.

MS. VICKI CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Premier. People equate paving and politics together and that's very unfortunate. The government claims that all roads are treated fairly. Time and time again the government claims it does not use paving as a political tool but the feeling among the public persists. My question for the Premier is, what can he tell Nova Scotians to assure them that capital project decisions are not based on politics?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, the government has laid out a plan to increase the Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal budget for paving highways and the needed infrastructure across our province by upwards of 60 per cent in the increase. The road builders yesterday spoke out and said this budget has to pass, and I hope the critic for the NDP will support the government's initiative to make sure that the road builders of Nova Scotia and other workers make sure that these roads are built on time.

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, my question again is for the Premier and first I would like to point out we very much do support the road builders of Nova Scotia. (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

[Page 6701]

MS. CONRAD: Just yesterday, Mr. Speaker, in an article on (Interruptions)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. Order, please. Everybody take a deep breath. (Interruptions)

Minister, actually I'm supposed to be in control here. (Laughter) So when I stand up, I would request that the members pay attention. What we are here for is Question Period. The honourable member for Queens has the floor and she is going to ask a question. I would appreciate that the members give her that opportunity.

The honourable member for Queens.

MS. CONRAD: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate that. Just yesterday in an article on allNovaScotia.com a backroom deal was exposed that says this government had offered the Third Party a deal that would have given Liberal constituencies a generous share of the upcoming stimulus spending in return for a promise to call a September election.

Mr. Speaker, is this Premier using what is supposed to be Nova Scotia's stimulus for his own political fortunes?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, the member and the NDP do not support the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association. If they did, they would be supporting this budget because the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association, the construction individuals, they understand that the construction season is a short one here in our province and by delaying that investment, they're delaying thousands of jobs. They're delaying the opportunity to invest in millions of dollars of work across Nova Scotia.

I know that the people of Queens County and other counties want to see that work happen, Mr. Speaker. I'm calling on that member to do the right thing and stand up when the time comes and support the initiative that will ensure that constituencies across this province see blacktop.

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, my question is again to the Premier. It sounds as though this Premier does not agree with what was published yesterday morning and it certainly sounds like there has been some scheming. If the Premier does not agree with what is in this publication, why didn't he refute it publicly?

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, again, I'll go back. We have a plan, a $1.9 billion capital plan that's needed for the economy at the present time. What the NDP and the Leader of the NDP present are risky schemes - over $2 billion. This province can't afford the promises after promises made by the NDP; deficit after deficit is what we would see. We need to focus on what Nova Scotians want. That's the plan, a capital plan that will see 20,000 jobs created or maintained.

[Page 6702]

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Pictou East.

MR. CLARRIE MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, the Boarding, Transportation and Ostomy Program - BTO - provides financial assistance to cancer patients for medically necessary travel within the province. Radiation treatment is only available in Halifax and Sydney, which means many Nova Scotians are paying high fuel bills and travelling long distances to access life-saving treatment. Unfortunately, the income cut-off for the program is only $15,720 per year. My question for the Minister of Health is, why is your department continuing to refuse to increase the income limit for the BTO Program?

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I think we all recognize that those people who are requiring radiation treatment are a priority for us and we want to do everything we can to make sure the treatment they need is available to them in a timely fashion. I'm very proud of the two programs that we have - one in Cape Breton and one in Halifax. I'm also very proud of the fact that when there is a situation and someone is in need, my door is always open.

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, the Canadian Cancer Society tells us that the income cut-off for the BTO has not been increased since 1994. That is 15 years that the Government of Nova Scotia has refused to recognize the financial hardships faced by Nova Scotians travelling for life-saving cancer treatment. My question to the Minister of Health is, has your government considered increasing the income level for the BTO Program or did it come to the conclusion that there weren't enough votes in it?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I'm not prepared to answer that question.

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, the minister knows that radiation treatment is only available in Halifax and Sydney. She also knows that cancer does not only strike those with an annual family income of under $15,720. My question to the Minister of Health is, will you commit to this House to meet with the Canadian Cancer Society representatives in the gallery today to discuss changes to the BTO Program?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I guess I'm repeating myself. My door is always open, I'm prepared to meet with those folks at their convenience.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Glace Bay.

[Page 6703]

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Health. Last week the minister stated she would have a solution for emergency room coverage at the Lillian Fraser Memorial Hospital "in a couple of weeks." Surely the minister meant to report that a solution for all emergency room hospital closures would be made available. After all, Nova Scotians in this province have endured emergency room closures last year that totalled 9,758 hours, or the equivalent of 406 days. Mr. Speaker, what is even more disturbing is that emergency room closures for the first four months of this year outnumbered the first four months of last year by over 1,500 hours.

My question to the minister is, will this minister today, on the floor of this Legislature, show all Nova Scotians her solution to solve emergency room closures across the province and not just a solution for a hospital in her riding.

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, you know the statistics that are being shared certainly are not new to me, as the Minister of Health, but I think there are other statistics that perhaps the floor of this House needs to understand. We have 38 hospitals that provide emergency room service, 28 of those are 100 per cent 24/7. We never hear the Opposition talking about that 100 per cent, what we do hear them talk about are the 3 per cent and those are the ones that are the focus of my attention.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, if the minister is looking for some statistics, I have some more for her. How about this one: 10 years and five health ministers, in 2008, 9,758 hours of closures; in 2007, 6,273; 10 years, five ministers, a 377 per cent increase in ER closures in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, we have a litany of ministerial failures in front of us. The residents of Glace Bay, of Digby, of Lunenburg, of North Sydney, of Parrsboro, Middleton and New Waterford deserve better than what they're getting. When can these residents who have endured emergency room closures for the past 10 years expect a solution to be announced for their community?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, as most people would understand, the emergency rooms and the hospitals are the responsibility of the district health authorities and my role is to continue to work with the CEOs at those district health authorities, to bring about a resolution to the unique circumstances that they have in their health authority.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Glace Bay): Mr. Speaker, it happens to be quite ironic that the Premier of this province stood in front of a podium two days ago with a sign that stated "A proven record." I think that record is broken, so my final question to the Premier is, how can the Premier look the people of Nova Scotia in the eye and state that ER closures of 9,758 hours last year alone represent a record in which he and his government are proud to stand behind?

[Page 6704]

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I am very proud of the fact that we have a team that will look at the concerns that exist and as the minister, I am prepared to work with the communities, the DHA and that's the process that I have begun and, as part of my mandate as minister, I will continue that. As I said earlier in one of my responses, the circumstances in each ER are different, the solutions will be different.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Dartmouth East.

MS. JOAN MASSEY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is for the Minister of Health. Nova Scotian children face multiple obstacles when attempting to access mental health services. Earlier this year there was a Code Purple called at the mental health inpatient unit at the IWK because there were no available beds. Children were discharged before they were ready to go home. One even ended up in her local emergency room and thank goodness that was open. My question for the Minister of Health is, why are you refusing to ensure that our children have timely access to the treatment they need, in a safe environment?

[4:00 p.m.]

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, we recognize that there are more demands on our mental health services. Those continue to grow and those are not unique to Nova Scotia but I do want to say that the situation of which the member speaks has been discussed, as all circumstances have been, with the district health authority and I have been assured and I believe that no patient in need of help has been turned away.

MS. MASSEY: Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotian children and youth are waiting too long for mental health treatment - that's a fact. The minister allowed the number of children waiting for a first appointment with the IWK Mental Health and Addictions Program to reach 647 on March 31, 2009. These youth and their families are waiting an average of 87.5 days, and that's just over three months. My question for the Minister of Health is, why do you think that 87.5 days is an acceptable period of time to leave children waiting for mental health treatment in this province?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, you know there are a number of services in the mental health area that are available for our youth in our province. Many of them are delivered through the district health authorities and they do not require inpatient status, and those programs are expanding. We are putting money into those programs. So the number of people who do require assistance at the IWK Mental Health is reduced and they are getting the service close to home through a program in their own DHA.

[Page 6705]

MS. MASSEY: Mr. Speaker, this is not a new issue here. In fact, in the last session of this House, we asked the former Minister of Health what he was going to do to help these children. His response at that time was, there were competing priorities within his department. My question is, to the minister, will you commit to making adolescence mental health a priority in your department now?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, it is true there are many competing programs looking for support through the Department of Health, but I can assure you that when the budget is presented there will certainly be an acknowledgment of the needs in the mental health area.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Kings West.

NAT. RES: IRVING LAND (DIGBY CO.) - PURCHASE PLANS

MR. LEO GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Natural Resources. Well, it appears the eleventh hour government across the floor is attempting to come to the rescue once more. A few hours ago, government announced it was willing to buy 21,000 acres of the Irving land in Digby County, but all along we were being told that government didn't have the money, they just couldn't afford it. Yet here we are with the government on a white stallion galloping to save the day. My question for the minister - what has changed so quickly that allows you to make this offer, other than an imminent election?

HON. CAROLYN BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, there's one thing that I do want to make perfectly clear, and I guess the goal of this government is to ensure that as much of this land as possible remains accessible. Now, the land acquisition budget for 2009-2010 has just been finalized and within those parameters, within a balanced budget, we have committed the Department of Environment and the Department Natural Resources to put forward a bid on the 21,000 acres of land.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, on February 27^th the Minister of Natural Resources said, if we had the resources we would be looking at this parcel of land. On February 27^th the Minister of Environment said, we would love to be able to purchase the Irving properties as a wilderness area, but there are only so much resources available. On March 30^th the Minister of Natural Resources again said, the province is not in any position to buy this property. On April 2^nd the Minister of Community Services said, Irving has done a disservice to the province; and on April 9, 2009, the Premier himself said, perhaps the municipalities themselves would like to acquire that land. Lo and behold, by sheer miracle the province comes up with an offer and funding today for 21,000 acres.

My question for the Minister of Natural Resources is, has this offer been in the works for some time or is this just a proposal you put on a piece of paper after Cabinet this morning?

[Page 6706]

MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, if the member opposite understood the budget process he would realize that until those budgets are finalized - and if he chose to vote on that budget, which I hope that he will see to it so that the people in southwestern Nova Scotia will have the opportunity to enjoy 21,000 acres of this land.

MR. GLAVINE: Mr. Speaker, a token gesture is all this is to try and silence Nova Scotians who believe Nova Scotians should own Nova Scotia. Quite frankly, this weak symbol of a weak government's attempt to try and save important land in Nova Scotia is insulting. You betrayed Nova Scotians. You're not even sure that people will even be able to gain access to this land. It's a piecemeal offer made by a piecemeal government. My question to the minister - is the land you are offering to buy going to be accessible to all Nova Scotians?

MS. BOLIVAR-GETSON: Mr. Speaker, I guess what's really insulting here is that member opposite will not allow these people to have that right to access that, if they do not vote for the budget. I spoke very firmly outside today that of this 21,000 acres, there will be roughly 25 per cent that would be committed for conservation. It's there for all Nova Scotians to enjoy for all purposes, recreation purposes, off-highway vehicling, hiking, camping - to be able to use and enjoy traditionally as they have in the past.

FISH. & AQUACULTURE: ROADSIDE SELLING - LICENCES

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Shelburne.

MR. STERLING BELLIVEAU: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. This past winter, lobster fishermen in Southwest Nova found that the prices being offered made it difficult for fishing families to make ends meet. In order to secure a fairer price, they decided to bring their product directly to the consumer. I asked the department, what rules would apply to fishermen selling directly to consumers at the roadside and the response I received from the department said, fishermen or persons selling on behalf of the fishermen could sell directly to the consumer and were not required to have either a seller's permit or a mobile vendor's permit. My question is, what has changed between December and today to change the minister's mind?

MR. SPEAKER: The honorable Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture.

HON. RONALD CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, as we know, last Fall there was a considerable amount of roadside selling of lobster in the Province of Nova Scotia, which at that time the weather was colder, the lobster would survive quite a bit longer, as well as the Spring when the weather warms up, it's not so good. It was a decision that we made on behalf of all Nova Scotians who harvest, sell and buy lobsters for the food safety of the people of Nova Scotia. So it was a health safety issue and we put that in place.

[Page 6707]

MR. BELLIVEAU: Mr. Speaker, the spokesman for Northumberland Fishermen's Association, Ronnie Heighton, called the move ridiculous and outrageous. Mr. Heighton also said that he was blind-sided by the new rules and did not hear anything about the changes until he picked up the mail this Monday, just three days before his season opened. My question to the minister is, why didn't the minister at the very least consult with the fishermen before springing these new requirements on them?

MR. CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, I guess as we all know, the permit process was part of the Health Promotion Act that requires all vendors in the Province of Nova Scotia who sell perishable goods, perishable food on the side of the road do need a permit. For the health and safety of the consumer in the Province of Nova Scotia, the province made the decision to have everybody that sells have a permit.

We've got to know exactly where the vendors are selling, with the purchase of a permit that allows the food specialists to be able to track and monitor where they're selling and what they're selling. It was an issue of food safety and we dealt with it.

MR. BELLIVEAU: Mr. Speaker, these changes are so important, the process should have started a long while ago. The minister knows when the different seasons open and he should also know when fishermen have to apply and wait ten business days before a permit is issued. My question to the minister is, why has he handcuffed these lobster fishermen, providing them with these requirements only a few days before their season starts?

MR. CHISHOLM: Mr. Speaker, surely the member opposite from Shelburne and the NDP Party are not saying that we should be selling lobster that could possibly (Interruptions) They're very risky, is right - selling products on the side of the road that are not healthy.

Mr. Speaker, the member opposite should go around the province and talk to some of the fishermen, some of the associations that we deal with, on lobster science, on the good work that the government does with association, the lobster hatchery down in Richmond County, the lobster hatchery in Pictou County. So the members opposite should check with those people and see the good work that we do do on behalf of the fishermen in the Province of Nova Scotia.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Sackville-Cobequid.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, the ministerial briefing book provided to the current Minister of Health outlines her roles and responsibilities. One of these responsibilities is the development of a provincial plan for the health system that reflects the health needs of Nova Scotians. This minister has not shown Nova Scotians that she has a plan that meets their needs. Instead, she has allowed ERs to close and wait times

[Page 6708]

for surgeries to grow. So I'd like to ask the Minister of Health, when will you present Nova Scotians with a plan that actually reduces wait times for surgeries?

HON. KAREN CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I would like to tell all members of the House that every decision that is made out of the Department of Health, and that I make as minister, is designed to improve the access that Nova Scotians have to quality health care in a timely fashion, and that will motivate me on all of my decisions.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, the previous Minister of Health said he had a plan for surgery wait times, but then had to explain that he wasn't actually able to track them. My office gets regular calls from patients who, after waiting in pain, have had their surgeries cancelled or delayed because of health care worker shortages and bed shortages. I'd like to ask the Minister of Health, why are you allowing the health of Nova Scotians to be put at risk by the cancellations of their surgeries?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind everyone in the House that we work very closely with the federal government and there are five national benchmarks on wait times that we try to meet. Those national benchmarks have been set and all provinces are working towards them. Nova Scotia is meeting or exceeding the wait time in four out of those five national benchmarks.

MR. DAVID WILSON (Sackville-Cobequid): Mr. Speaker, the Department of Health contracted out surgeries so that Capital District Health Authority could be more productive. When this created a deficit at Capital Health, this government refused to help. Instead, they forced the cancellation of over 1,100 surgeries, which grew the wait times for surgeries.

[4:15 p.m.]

I'd like to ask the Minister of Health, when will you honour your ministerial responsibilities and come up with a plan to deal with the long wait times and cancellations of surgeries?

MS. CASEY: Mr. Speaker, the operation of the health care facilities in this province is the responsibility of the district health authorities and perhaps the responsibilities of the DHAs would be something that, in addition to the responsibilities of the minister, the member opposite should read.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, since this Premier was first elected in 2006, Nova Scotians have been forced to witness deterioration of the correctional services in this province. Over that time period we have seen 11 mistaken releases, two escapes, and a highly

[Page 6709]

publicized riot that included over 50 inmates in the Burnside Correctional Facility in Dartmouth.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotians' confidence in our correction system is shaken and they are looking for leadership from this government. My question to the Premier is, what have you done to fully address the concerns and issues within the correctional service unit in Nova Scotia?

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from the honourable member because, in fact, as he would know, in dealing with any of the pressures and issues that have come forward, we have been forthright and transparent in dealing with those and that's why we had the Deloitte audit that was done, the implementations going forward. We've hired additional staff to work on that implementation. Many positive changes have been made and will continue to be made.

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, when this government boasted earlier this month that catch-and-release season had officially opened in Nova Scotia, most Nova Scotians assumed that it applied to sports fishing. Who would have thought that the Premier and Minister of Justice would have thought that it applied to the department of corrections here in this province? So we have the embarrassment of mistaken releases, we have a riot at the Burnside facility and today we find out they kept someone in custody two months longer than they had been sentenced to. What was their response? Next time this person comes to a correctional facility, they gets two months free.

Nova Scotians deserve to have a correctional system that they can trust and believe in and that's going to help keep our province safe and keep criminals behind bars where they belong. My question again to the Premier is, since you refused to accept the resignation that was offered by the Minister of Justice, what can you tell Nova Scotians now to restore confidence in our justice system in Nova Scotia?

MR. CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, to my honourable colleague, as he would know, and I'm sure he will be very supportive of the fact that this government, in dealing with corrections, has worked with Canada on the stimulus package, has worked on strategic infrastructure partnerships. I'm sure he's going to support the $18 million investment that will see 100 new persons being able to be incarcerated in Springhill in a joint partnership with Corrections Canada. That's the type of forging ahead with a plan, with the knowledge that we are working strategically. If they will allow the Minister of Finance to bring forward his budget, they'll see further improvements and they can act on it by allowing this House to consider that budget.

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotians know that the announcement that was made by the minister - what are you these days? - by the member for Cumberland South - oh, yes, he's Economic Development, that's right - the Minister of Economic Development, that a new facility will be built in Springhill. We all know that two years is how long that will

[Page 6710]

take even being realistic in a best-case scenario. I'm sure the good member for Cumberland North will probably have a few comments that he would like to make about that new facility that's going to be constructed.

The problem exists today. Nova Scotians continue to be concerned about people being mistakenly released, a government that says they want to keep our streets safe and yet we continue to see such mistakes happening. There is clearly a need for new leadership within the correctional system of this province so I ask the Premier again, when will you finally show leadership, stand up and assure Nova Scotians that the mistakes taking place in the Department of Justice are going to end and they're going to end now?

MR. CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, as you would know, Nova Scotia has had significant investments that have been made to deal with the justice system. We have the best restorative justice program in North America with our youth attendance centres that we have in Halifax and we're rolling out to Cape Breton - with the investments we've made within justice that will ensure the integrity of our system. When there have been challenges we've dealt with those head-on and therefore we've brought forward a plan.

If the member would allow the Minister of Finance to come forward and present that budget, he'll have the opportunity to vote for more investments in the justice system. But at this point they don't seem willing to have that information brought before this House so that Nova Scotians can have the confidence of a criminal justice system that has the integrity of a government that continues to invest time and time again - but they won't.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Queens.

MS. VICKI CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Education. I have a question on behalf of the parents, children, school board members and teachers in Queens. Your department chose to ignore their needs and ignore the advice of the South Shore Regional School Board. Your department wants to impose a solution on the community, closing a junior high and expanding an existing school, not building the new one everyone wanted. The board didn't recommend it and the community doesn't want it. My question to the minister is, will she admit that her decision was based on politics, pure and simple, and not the community's priorities?

HON. JUDY STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise in my place and speak for as many minutes as you will allow about the phenomenal commitment of this government to build eight new schools across this province, to renovate 41 additional schools, for a total of $307 million of investment to the students, to the youth, to the teachers, to our communities - rural and urban. That's proof positive of this government's commitment to communities in Nova Scotia, from one end to the other.

[Page 6711]

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, the minister is proposing expanding an elementary school to a P to 8 with over 800 students. The school board made the difficult decision to close Milton Centennial because they understood from the minister's department that a new free-standing middle school was coming. My question for the minister is, will she explain what criteria she used to decide to ignore the school board's priorities and the community's wishes?

MS. STREATCH: Again to all Nova Scotians, and to the members opposite should they care to listen, $307 million is a phenomenal investment from one end of this province to the other to build eight new schools, to renovate 41 schools, along with the over $425 million that we have already committed. My goodness, I didn't teach math but that's over $725 million of investment and the South Shore Regional School Board is delighted with the $8 million that we have committed for whatever the community decides will work that will match their community configuration. I am more than happy to continue to go on about the investments but I know you would rather I sit down, Mr. Speaker.

MS. CONRAD: Mr. Speaker, the previous Minister of Education approved removing South Queens Junior High from the renovation list and adding it to the future new construction list, but this minister has chosen to ignore construction priorities from the South Shore Regional School Board and the community. My question is, why does she know so much better than the people of Queens and our South Shore Regional School Board?

MS. STREATCH: Mr. Speaker, we're extremely pleased and proud of the commitment of $307 million under the new proposals for communities from one end of Nova Scotia to the other. We know, in partnership with our school board representatives, with our communities, with SAC committees, we know, as we've been in communication with them just recently, in Queens County, in all areas of Nova Scotia, we know that they are pleased to propose recommendations, to continue to work on options and alternatives that work for them given the envelope that we've provided. As always, we've indicated that should those options not prove to work for them, we would be pleased to consider other options that they may bring forward.

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

MS. MARILYN MORE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Community Services. Recently the minister announced no budget increases for community agencies doing critical work. This affects essential programs delivered by transition houses, women's centres, parent and family resource centres and many others. Most haven't had any increase in 10 to 15 years. Their budgets have effectively been cut since 1995 by 10 per cent to 24 per cent. My question to the minister is, why are you forcing these agencies into a crisis when they are doing your department's work well and cost effectively?

[Page 6712]

HON. CHRISTOPHER D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, I know last year a lot of these organizations did get modest increases. As we looked at our budget, making sure that we have funds available to help those who so much need our help, we had to hold the line, as we're holding a line right across this department when it comes to extra spending. So I'm very pleased to have made the announcement that all of those budgets would be protected within this year's budget.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, the sector is reeling from the challenge of increased demands from the recession with few resources. More workers work in the voluntary sector than the retail industry in Nova Scotia. They're working with high-risk clients, facing multiple issues. They've lost 30,000 volunteers annually, there's fierce competition for skilled staff and yet they have to work for low salaries. So my question to the minister is, your government has become part of the problem, not part of the solution, by freezing grants, where is the leadership needed to support the voluntary sector through this crisis?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, this government took leadership in providing Nova Scotia's first Poverty Reduction Strategy, a reduction strategy that will bring $155 million to help the poor in this province.

Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity yesterday to sign off on a housing agreement with the federal minister that will bring well over $128 million for housing in this province. This government has done more than anyone would expect for us to do. We have lots of things still on the books to do, to ensure that there is less and less poverty in this province, year over year.

MS. MORE: Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Premier. Last December you signed a collaboration agreement with the social service organizations in the voluntary sector and affirmed a partnership based on dialogue, respect and accountability. My question to the Premier is, what is your signature worth on the collaboration agreement if your government is breaking the agreement already?

MR. D'ENTREMONT: Mr. Speaker, again I can only herald the Poverty Reduction Strategy, one that will bring $88 million for skills and training development through our partners at Labour and Workforce Development; $2.4 million to help people in receipt of income assistance; $3.5 million in affordable child care; $2.5 million or so, so more families can access children's benefits.

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

The honourable Government House Leader.

[Page 6713]

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Before continuing with the business of the House, may I be permitted to do an introduction?

MR. SPEAKER: Please do.

MR. CLARKE: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd just like to draw the attention of the House to your gallery and an individual, as others were introduced here today, that whenever the opportunity does arise and there is a provincial election, will be a candidate and we have with us the candidate for the Progressive Conservatives for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island, Ted Larsen, and I'd ask all member to welcome Ted to the House. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. The government business for the day was being proposed to go to Public Bills for Second Reading, which would have been Bill No. 236, the Judicature Act, but I would ask, given the emergency debate and the nature of the topic that has been brought forward, I would seek the consent of the House to forgo the regular business and we would adjourn our regular business for the day. Before doing that, I would seek first to do that and then the business for tomorrow.

MR. SPEAKER: Is it agreed that we adjourn the business and go to the emergency debate?

SOME HON. MEMBERS: Agreed.

MR. SPEAKER: It is agreed.

The honourable Government House Leader.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: Mr. Speaker, I do believe in the normal process of emergency debate we would adjourn the House and then go into the emergency debate. So what I would like to do is move that we do now rise and meet again tomorrow from the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Following the daily routine, there will be the consideration of Public Bills for Second Reading, which would include Bill Nos. 236, 240, 243, 245, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251 and 252. I so move. A busy day tomorrow.

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

The motion is carried.

We are adjourned.

[Page 6714]

ADJOURNMENT

MOTION UNDER RULE 43

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

ECONOMY (N.S.): JOBS - SECURE

MR. DARRELL DEXTER: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I'm very pleased to rise this evening - I guess it's still this afternoon - and have the opportunity to speak on the challenges that Nova Scotia currently faces with respect to the economic downturn which is affecting the lives of so many of our constituents and so many of the people of this province.

Mr. Speaker, you only have to go to the newspaper on any particular day to read about the kind of difficulties that people are facing. We have seen, for example, layoffs with Michelin. We have seen the closure of Eastern Protein and the loss of those jobs there. We have seen the layoffs at Pratt & Whitney. We have seen the layoffs at Fundy Gypsum. We've seen the closing of Keata Pharma, Cape Breton Castings, and Magna. In Queens County, where I grew up, we have seen the temporary shutdown of AbitibiBowater and the difficulties, of course, and the economic stress that that causes for the people in those communities and all of those communities.

AbitibiBowater, just as an example, is a company which has a long and very rich history in Queens County. If anything should happen to that plant, it wouldn't be just the employees there - there are estimates that it would affect some 1,600 or 1,700 people, not just in Queens County but in the adjoining counties as well. So you get some sense of the gravity of the economic dislocation that we teeter on the brink of, and I think it has been very clear that this has been - although it often is related to forces that are beyond the control of governments, what is within our control is our ability to be able to respond to these kinds of crises.

So that is why it is with some amazement that the people of the province look around and try to figure out why it is the House of Assembly hasn't sat in some five months. They expect that in these extraordinary times when their communities are facing economic crisis, when their neighbours are losing their jobs, when they are told that their pensions are in question, when they are seeing people lose their employment - I couldn't help but notice just the other day, Mr. Speaker, that Statistics Canada noted that the Nova Scotia employment numbers took another hit in January, with the province now having the third highest rate in the country. Nova Scotia's figures jumped to 8.8 per cent, up from 8.2 per cent in the previous month, and that gives you some idea of what is happening out there across the province.

[Page 6715]

Yet here we are in the Legislature with a government which is the last one in the country to provide any kind of economic update so that people can be aware of what the actual economic situation is. They're the last one in the country to come up with a stimulus program, and I attended the announcement of the stimulus program which amounted to, you know, really not much of anything except a sketch of what the Premier had in mind. In fact, the only real thing we knew about the so-called stimulus package was that they were going to add $1.4 billion to the provincial debt.

We are in a province where, despite the fact that we are now at the end of April, the House has still not had the opportunity to see a budget from the government at a time of this great economic stress. I know we've watched while the government has postured around the question of their economic plan, their budget plan, and they seek, quite frankly, to use the budget and the provincial Finance Act to try to shift the blame for their own decision-making onto the benches of the Opposition Parties. They know and we know that this is absolutely transparent to the people of the province - and I hear it absolutely everywhere I go - they recognize what the reality is, what the truth is. And the truth is that this is a government that ran a budget deficit in the previous budget year and now what they want to do is change the law so that they can take money that was put on the debt in 2005 and pretend - they want all of us here in the House of Assembly, they want all of us to make believe, along with them - that that is somehow revenue in last year, and therefore the budget was balanced. Well, nobody is buying it.

What they expect from their government, especially at times like this, is an honest portrayal of where the province stands and they expect to see a budget that portrays an honest vision for the province. Unfortunately we have seen absolutely none of that. Instead, the government is engaged in a kind of shell game, designed to try and move figures around on the balance sheet in order to make itself look good when they know that what is going to happen is that they are going to run up yet further debt on behalf of the province.

The government has been sitting on their hands while nine other provinces proceeded with timely budgets. All Nova Scotians do know about the government is that they intend to add an additional $1.4 billion to the province's current debt. Now, the current debt of the province is over $12 billion. We pay, every year, some $900 million just in interest to service that debt. And it's no secret that debt was amassed as a result of the free-spending ways of the Progressive Conservative Government through the 1980s primarily - other governments were also responsible for adding to that debt. It put us in this position so that now, each and every year, the amount of money that we spend on interest is two and a half times the amount of money that's spent on infrastructure in the province. It's two and a half times what the Department of Transportation's budget is.

This is the one way that governments are able to tie the hands of future governments. You can't do it at law, but you can do it by running the province so far in debt that there is no flexibility in future governments to be able to respond to crises like this one.

[Page 6716]

I just want you to think about $1.4 billion in additional debt and what that actually means to people. If you take that new Tory debt and you divide it by our population, you will discover that the Progressive Conservative plan means that a family of four in this province will be on the hook for an additional $6,000 in debt. And sooner or later - and they talk over there as if the debt burden, the debt that they're going to incur, is somehow free, but sooner or later the people of the province are going to have to repay it and that is going to be passed along to the next generation through the irresponsible exercise of the budgets of this government.

I've been in the House for 11 years and here's the irony - I believe that the greatest single moment of John Hamm's term as Premier was the day that he received $830 million from the Atlantic Accord and with our support, he used that money to pay down the provincial debt. Now the Premier is going to single-handedly wipe out that achievement. The sad thing about that is that everybody in this room understands who ultimately pays for that debt. Everyone understands that the price of excessive debt is hospital bed closures, nurses having their wages rolled back, road improvements cancelled, schools falling into disrepair. That's what the legacy of the previous Tory debt has been.

Now their plan, their road to prosperity is through further debt. If debt were the road to prosperity, there would be statues to John Buchanan all over this province. But there isn't because debt is not the road to prosperity. Debt means that the things you want to be able to do for your citizens, you are not able to do because the budget flexibility that you require in order to invest in new hospitals, new schools, new programming and for that matter, the money you would like to invest in tax relief, is done away with. When they decide that their approach to the economy is to increase the debt of the province, they are doing all of us, every citizen, a great disservice.

We have tried to lay out for the government some of the ideas that we have about how you go about approaching successfully strengthening the economic infrastructure. That's why we've been trying to convince the government that a manufacturing or processing tax credit that will reward companies for investing in new technology, investing in new productivity measures, is the way to stimulate investment in this province.

We've proposed a 10 per cent tax credit, we know it's modest, but we want to make sure we are living within the means of the province and we want to make sure it is enough to be able to incent that kind of investment. We hear from manufacturers and processors who say, now is actually the time to be investing in new technology. Now is the time to make yourself ready so you can take advantage of that as the economy starts to pick up.

We need to incent investment in new industry. But we also have to invest in people. We need to make sure the unique competitive advantage of this province is actually its

[Page 6717]

people. We need to invest in new training, in new education. We have to make sure our community colleges and our universities are accessible to the young people of this province.

[4:45 p.m.]

We need to make sure those workers who are currently in the workforce, but underemployed, are able to come back and get the re-skilling and retraining that they need so they can be a bigger and more productive part of our economy. That's what the members on this side of the House have been trying to get through to the government.

A real plan for this province takes three things. It takes vision, commitment and courage and that's what the people, that's what the members on this side of this House are all about. That's what we are all about. Unfortunately, on that side, they are about trying to manipulate the books, to prevent people from getting an honest picture of the province's finances. They don't like the truth, they don't want the truth and quite frankly, they can't handle the truth. Thank you. (Applause)

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

MR. STEPHEN MCNEIL: Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to join this debate tonight. It was October 31, 2008 when we had this debate, began to talk about the economy in this province, encourage this government to deal with the economic crises that was before us as a province and as a country and really, globally. The challenges that were there, we reached across this floor and asked this government to be a partner, to try to help to mitigate the damage that would take place from one end of this province to the other to try to help mitigate the damage that would take place from one end of this province to the other and, really, in our economy nationally. The Leader of the Opposition listed down through the number of layoffs that have taken place since that time. As you know, 4,400 Nova Scotians lost their jobs in the month of November alone - 1 per cent of our workforce in the month of November alone, when government was telling Nova Scotians we were months away from the economic challenge downturn.

We've been the last government to have their House recalled. We have been the last government to lay out a constructive, positive solution for how we're going to make sure that our economy continues to move forward and how we are going to be able to position ourselves to take advantage of the opportunities that will exist at the end of this downturn.

Mr. Speaker, since 2003 until the present day, we had the worst performing economy in the country, collectively - we've had the worst performing economy in the country. I want you to think about that for a moment. In 2003, Canada was either at the top or second in the G8 countries in economic performance. Our country was booming, and Nova Scotia had the worst-performing economy in our country. Nova Scotia was dead last in the best economic times for our country. That should be an indication that the way we've been attacking this

[Page 6718]

problem hasn't been working - not only in the good times, but it certainly won't work in these difficult times.

The answer is not simply writing a cheque; the answer is not simply adding $1.4 billion to our debt and then asking our children to make some decisions we were unwilling to make, asking our children to forego their future to pay for our mistakes.

There was a generation of politicians who, quite frankly, robbed this generation of politicians of the ability to make some decisions. There was a generation of politicians that sat in this House and just wrote cheques for everything - someone arrived here with a problem, we wrote a cheque. At the end of the day, Mr. Speaker, our children are left with a $12 billion debt, crumbling infrastructure, roads that are decaying from one end of this province to the other, schools that - as the Minister of Education talked about today - are in tough shape, hospitals that are closing.

So from that point, where do we go and how do we go forward? We have said on this side of the House that it is time for us, as a province - that we need to do business differently. We need to ask, how do we engage the men and women who are creating the jobs from one end of this province to the other, how do we engage them to be our partner? How do we say to them, we need your help to rebuild this economy? You are the people who stood with us in the most difficult times and in the best of times, and you are the people who are still here, creating the jobs from one end of Nova Scotia to the other.

I believe, our caucus believes, we need to partner with them. We need to cut the small business tax from 5 per cent to 1 per cent, Mr. Speaker. We need to engage the men and women who are creating the jobs. We need to reach out to them and say here, we want to be your partner, we're going to give you the tools to create the jobs in Ecum Secum, to create the jobs in Bridgetown and Sydney and in downtown Halifax.

You are the people who have been doing it. We're not going to engage and we're not going to write cheques for people to fly in, spend government money, and leave when it's over. We want to be your partner. You are the people who have an investment in your community beyond just your business and our school boards and our hospital boards and our hockey programs and our soccer programs. You've committed to our youth, and we now want to be your partner to commit to grow this economy.

Mr. Speaker, 50 per cent of Nova Scotians work for small business; 50 per cent of Nova Scotia jobs are in small business. Why, then, wouldn't the government of today want to partner with them, join us in reducing that small business tax and telling them, here's the tools for you to create those stable and secure jobs as we go forward? Not only will it provide stimulus in every community across this province, not only will it provide stimulus to every business, every community, and every family today, but it would set our province up to be competitive at the end of this economic downturn.

[Page 6719]

It's not picking winners and losers. It's not picking one sector over another. It's engaging the small-business community. At the end of this downturn it would allow them to be competitive and to take advantage of the opportunities that exist at the end of every downturn.

Whenever there has been a downturn, Mr. Speaker, not only in our economy but in the global economy, there has always been an upswing, and the businesses and the governments and the countries that have prepared themselves for the upswing are the ones that thrive at the end of the day. They're not the ones that just dump another $1.4 billion on their debt without a plan.

One of the challenges for small business, Mr. Speaker, is access to capital. It's extremely difficult not only in economic tough times but it's difficult sometimes in the best of times. It's why we believe we need to be partners in providing a microcredit lending system with NSBI, allowing loans up to $25,000, not only to deal with the tough challenges today but it would allow the businesses to reshape themselves for the opportunities that will exist going forward. It would allow them to invest in their employees. It would allow them to ensure the survival of their business but, more importantly, it would allow them to grow our economy in the Province of Nova Scotia.

I believe our success and our ability to grow jobs in this province will be directly related to the partnership we create with the small business - the people who have invested in us for generations and have stayed here and shown faith in our economy and in our province, Mr. Speaker, but as part of that, as we go forward we're not opposed to providing some stimulus and put it into the economy of this province but it has to be with the eye of saying, what does that project do for us at the end of this downturn? Not only will it provide jobs today, not only will it allow us to build a piece of infrastructure, but what will it do in five years, in 20 years? What will it do for our economy?

I know that the university presidents have visited every caucus, spoken to every member of this House. They talked about a plan and they talked about the infrastructure deficit at our universities. There's over a $500 million infrastructure deficit and they know, they willingly admit, we can't solve that problem overnight but what they said and what they did as a group, they came together and they put together a plan. They put together a plan that seemed logical. It was thoughtful and you could see at the end of it what the results were going to be. We engaged them in that conversation. We said to the university presidents, are you looking for all of this money from the Province of Nova Scotia? It's around $100 million, Mr. Speaker, and they said no.

We do believe, though, that the province should have some investment in that. The federal government will participate in that. The private sector would participate in that. The endowment funds at universities would participate in that. So instead of saying to our children we're going to dump another $100 million of debt on top of you, we should be

[Page 6720]

reaching out and finding those partners and saying in that small investment we would provide infrastructure, jobs, in every region of this province, across sectors - plumbers, electricians, lawyers, architects, and the list goes on. But what it would do is it would provide us with a piece of infrastructure that would allow us in five years to continue to educate our children for the jobs of today and the ones tomorrow. It wouldn't just be spending money for the sake of spending it - spending it without a plan.

Mr. Speaker, paving in this House has been talked about an awful lot. I represent a rural riding and let me tell you, my riding could use as much paving as anywhere but we need to make sure that as we go through and spend those precious dollars that we have as a province, regardless of who is sitting on that side of the House, as we go forward and make those decisions, we need to be looking at the paving of this province through an economic lens. What are the corridors like that we move our goods and services over and our people coming to and from?

Mr. Speaker, when people come to our province, they enjoy the Cabot Trail, they enjoy the South Shore, the Valley. They should be leaving our province with the thought of the hospitality of our citizens, the beauty of our countryside, and not remembering the shape of the roads. When you ask for a plan on what's going to happen in paving projects in the next number of months and years, there is no plan, it's helter-skelter. And again, I'll repeat, I'm from a rural riding and I don't expect this government or any government to be able to deal with the highway infrastructure challenge that's in front of us.

We certainly can't deal with it if we do not put a plan in place that would systematically look at our highway infrastructure from an economic point of view to kind of drive our economy, to allow us to move our goods and services, to allow our people to move to and from so that we can have the tax revenue to be able to invest in the things that we believe in.

The other real challenge for business today is the uncertainty that this province has been left in because we - or because the government was unwilling to respond in a timely way. There's no reason why we as a province should not be sitting in this House of Assembly in February and introducing a budget in February and debating it in February, so that by the end of one fiscal year and the beginning of another, Nova Scotia's public institutions that we rely on, plus the business community, have a sense of where we're going as a province.

If we're going to try to create a partnership to build our province, to move forward, then we have to be open, we have to move away from making budgets to fit our timetable; it has to fit the timetable of the fiscal year.

Our school boards, our hospital boards, our municipalities, all of the public institutions that we rely on should be treated with the respect they deserve and understand what their budgets are by April 1^st. Whether they like it or not at the end of the day, whether

[Page 6721]

we can argue about the amounts, we always will argue about the amounts, but they should know that they have a provincial government that is a partner with them, and allow them to move forward. That is no different for the business community. They need to understand with some certainty that their government understands their challenges and is going to respond in a timely fashion.

[5:00 p.m.]

We have debated this issue for a long time outside of this House. Every other government, every other province responded in a timely manner and we are the only province still sitting here in this uncertainty. Not only are we in economic uncertainty, we are in political uncertainty. It's a dangerous recipe for the people of this province. It's time that this House dealt with the issue one way or another. Either this government brings forward legislation that we can support, that is not asking us to change the law to go retroactively, that is not allowing us to cook the books to make sure that it fits their fiscal needs, or let's go to the polls and let the people of Nova Scotia decide who should sit here and who shouldn't. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Premier.

THE PREMIER: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise this evening and to say a few words about the subject that is on everyone's mind in Nova Scotia, indeed on everyone's mind in our country, and indeed worldwide, and that's the economy and the global economic slowdown that we have seen during the past year.

While there is definitely cause for concern, because we do live in a global economy, Nova Scotia has fared much better than many other parts of the country and much better than many other parts of the world as a result of a lot of work done by our government and the good people of our province. This government's efforts to get the province's finances on solid footing and to grow the economy are insulating the province from some of those challenges. For example, last year, Nova Scotia GDP growth was well above the national average. The latest statistics - Canadian Labour Force Survey shows that employment was at a record high in March, and only Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan posted positive year over year employment gains. We're creating good jobs in this province. There were four provinces, I believe, that had an increase in GDP last year. We were among those four. There are positive things happening here.

Now I look back at the couple of months and I look back at one of those announcements being Flagstone. They announced the creation of 80 new jobs that are paying around $100,000 per job in the neighbourhood here in Halifax. That's an example of what we're doing.

[Page 6722]

I take a look at Lockheed Martin and the plans that they have, to see additional jobs there as well. Just this past week I joined the Minister of Economic and Rural Development in the Amherst area, with a small business that started off with two gentlemen, called Bradean's - they are now at 13. We announced a payroll rebate; they are increasing to 35 jobs, out in rural Nova Scotia.

We've seen roughly 15,000 jobs created in the past few years in that regard. We are able to do that because we have a variety of choices and programs that we offer, choices of programs such as the payroll rebate through NSBI, which is working. It's the very reason why we increased the IEF spending, to be able to react quickly to businesses that require help, whether it's through a loan guarantee or a loan which has to be repaid with interest.

When we look down the water at Nova Scotia Crystal, we have a good example of a Nova Scotia company that was able to maintain and continue to exist here in our province. It's an icon for our province and without the support of the government - they have said it, Mr. Speaker - they wouldn't have been able to do it. That's what this government is doing.

The list can go on. I can speak about the Credit Union Loan Program which provides upwards of $150,000. The Leader of the Liberal Party mentioned small business. There is a program there, the Business Retention and Expansion Program. There are many, many programs and we work individually with business to deal with the challenges.

What I'm hearing from the Opposition in the past few weeks, and what I'm hearing from the Opposition today, is that they don't support a capital stimulus package because we recognize that revenues are indeed falling and that's being experienced by every other province.

One of the questions that continues to come up is the timing of the budget. Well, in fact, last year on this very day, one year ago, we introduced last year's budget - a year ago today. I've heard the Liberal Party speak about budgets. In 1998 and 1999 they delivered their budget in June, Mr. Speaker - which I know you're very familiar with, and you recall that month.

AN HON. MEMBER: With a $600 million deficit.

THE PREMIER: Right. And we have taken the time, and our staff in our various departments have put a tremendous amount of energy into going through each and every budget item line by line because we recognize the challenges and they recognize the challenges.

Almost every other province in the country will have a deficit. This province will once again have a balanced budget for the people of our province. It takes time to make sure you do the proper planning, it takes time to do the proper work, and it takes time to put

[Page 6723]

forward a capital stimulus plan which leverages federal opportunity. Today we announced $422 million which will impact not only the short term, and when I talk about our schools and our universities, I talk about - we're putting money to infrastructure, but indeed, we're putting money into the foundations of our education system and the foundations of our economy for the future. If we don't take the opportunity to leverage those dollars, Mr. Speaker, those dollars will be lost. They will go to another province because the federal government has been very clear that if we don't spend the money in the next 24 months, we'll lose it.

The Road Builders Association have come out because they recognize the short construction season. The university presidents have come out because they recognize the challenges that they have to deal with. The Chambers of Commerce - everyone recognizes it except the Leaders of the Opposition.

Now I have heard the Leader of the NDP saying, well, don't add to the debt, balance the books, do everything, be all things to all people. Meanwhile, they're out making promises, over $2 billion worth of promises, there are 70 promises, not one of them that will stimulate the economy. We have a responsibility as a government, we have a responsibility as MLAs, to ensure that the people of our province get as much benefit and that businesses are able to deal with what is a significant challenge.

Our Economic Advisory Council, which is made up of some of the brightest minds in business in Nova Scotia are saying we need to get this capital stimulus plan through or else it will hurt the economy of our province. I believe them because they are the ones who have trucks out on the highways; they are the ones who are doing the day- to-day business - and I respect what they are saying. I respect what they are saying.

HON. CECIL CLARKE: It's a socialist risk we can't afford.

THE PREMIER: We can't afford, as my good colleague from Cape Breton North just said, what the NDP are proposing. The only way to afford what the NDP and the Liberals are suggesting is to raise taxes - significantly. That is the only way to afford what they are saying. They're saying, do not have a stimulus package, raise taxes. That's what they're saying. There's no other way when revenues are down. I know you know that, Mr. Speaker. They are risky; extremely risky. They're willing to roll the dice for political reasons, not for what is right for Nova Scotia.

I want to make sure that, yes, my son and other young people in this province have an opportunity of going forward in the future. That's why we have balanced the books. I remember back in 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002, and my colleagues, many of whom were there then, remember, when we were standing up and making the tough decisions to balance the books of the province and the NDP were voting against those decisions. I remember when that was the case - it's not that long ago and some of those decisions were not easy, but they

[Page 6724]

were the right decisions and that's why the cost of borrowing in this province has gone down significantly, on our debt. That's why we've been able to invest in our schools, in our highways, and grow the economy of our province.

We are bucking the trend when it comes to what is happening across the country. People are taking a look at Nova Scotia because they recognize we have done things right. Do we have challenges? Yes, we do. We need to recognize those challenges, we can't hide from them - and that's what the Leader of the NDP is saying, hide, pretend they're not there. They are there, Mr. Speaker.

This capital plan recognizes that, it deals with that and, while we have a plan, they have no plan. They have no plan. What will they do? They will have to raise your taxes. They will raise the taxes of every Nova Scotian because that's the only way to afford the risky promises of the NDP. They don't like hearing that, but that's the truth and they know it. They know it, Mr. Speaker. By denying this budget the opportunity to proceed and go through, by denying that opportunity they are denying 20,000 Nova Scotians the opportunity to work in the short term, and denying Nova Scotians the opportunity to have the infrastructure they need for the long- term future of this province.

I have people coming home from out West and they are looking for work now. I have people who would have been going and they are home. The NDP Leader may think that's not a serious situation. I can tell you in my riding, it's a serious situation. Those people want these jobs to happen. Those people are coming to me and saying, you've got to find a way to get that budget through because that's important for me and my family. I respect them and I respect the fact those jobs are not only needed for them, but they are needed for their children and they are needed for the people of this province. I do talk to them about the risky schemes being put forward by the Leader of the NDP; I do talk to them about the fact that they will have to raise their taxes. And while they're looking for a job, the NDP and the Liberals would rather be out on a campaign trail.

Mr. Speaker, I am more concerned about the main streets of our small communities and our cities; I am more concerned about these individuals than I am about elections. I am more concerned about the municipalities we invested in this morning and we announced money in Richmond County for wastewater management. I am more concerned about seeing that project go forward than a ballot box. I am more concerned about the people in Queens County and making sure that the 100-Series Highway, Highway No. 103 gets the needed infrastructure investment it needs. I am more concerned that the people of Antigonish and St. F.X. University see the investment they need. I am more concerned that we take advantage of the opportunity that the Atlantic Gateway provides for Nova Scotia and the future of our province.

I am more concerned, Mr. Speaker, about the good people of Cumberland County and the new correctional facility which it will provide to them. I am more concerned about the

[Page 6725]

people in Sydney who are depending on these jobs, I am more concerned with them than I am about the Opposition and their want for an election. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

The honourable member for Halifax Needham.

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I'm very pleased to have an opportunity to rise in my place to speak in this emergency debate. I've been in this Legislature for 11 years now. I'm privileged to represent a constituency where we still have a manufacturing base. You know, I like to say that we make ships and beer in my constituency and although we've been abandoned pretty much by our federal government with respect to a national shipbuilding policy, we still have a very fine shipyard and we still have a very good skilled labour force in that constituency.

Mr. Speaker, this is a very, very serious matter. It's a difficult time for many families and many communities throughout our province. We are currently experiencing a global recession - the worst downturn in our economy since the Great Depression. The difficulties that we see, particularly as the Leader of the Official Opposition indicated when he spoke earlier in this debate, is primarily due to the relationship that we have as a trading partner with the United States. The litany of problems in the American economy is well known to us all - the bank failures, the slump in the housing market, the automobile industry crisis and so on.

[5:15 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, not so long ago, just in the last few weeks, I had the privilege of joining a parliamentary exchange to China. I'll tell you it was really quite an eye-opener to go to this country. This is a country that has experienced a loss of 30 million jobs in this recession - 30 million jobs have been lost - 30 million workers in China have been sent home from the free trade zones. What was really interesting was the Chinese Government had managed to have a budget and a stimulus package. (Interruption) And a plan and, in fact, the plan was underway. (Interruptions)

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

MS. MAUREEN MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, the Government of China has been very much engaged in the international conversations. (Interruption) Well, the Government House Leader talks about whether or not there is democracy in China and I just want to let the honourable House Leader know that I found some similarities between our government in this province and the Chinese Government, in that they too only have their House sit

[Page 6726]

approximately eight or 12 days a year. They think that is okay, and I had to say - I couldn't tell them that we sat a heck of a lot longer in our democratic system.

Anyway, really I'd like to focus on the concerns of many families and communities here in Nova Scotia. The Premier spoke about the growth in GDP in Nova Scotia and I have to say when I saw this in the paper I felt good about that, and I think we all need to retain some elements of a positive outlook. We have a mixed economy in this province, a good mix of public and private sector, of manufacturing, of resource-based industries, and of services. This actually gives our economy some resilience, I guess you would say, but the rosy picture that the Premier points to is not the picture throughout this province.

I'm very fortunate to represent a constituency here in our capital, but let me tell you, Mr. Speaker - and the Premier should be well aware of this - let me tell you what the unemployment rate is on the beautiful island of Cape Breton right now: 17.2 per cent unemployment up from 15 per cent unemployment. That's not a rosy picture, and that isn't the only region of this province that has difficulty. Let me look at northern Nova Scotia. The northern region has gone from 9.7 per cent unemployment last year to 12.2 per cent. When we look at the southern region of this province, it has gone from 9.9 per cent unemployment to 13.5 per cent unemployment. So in fact, the parts of this province that the majority of members over there are representing don't seem to be doing so well. This is a very great concern and that's something that we need to be debating and talking about in this legislature.

Mr. Speaker, I hear the members from the other side screaming about passing the budget. Well, they haven't even set a date to bring a budget forward. Show us the budget. Bring that budget forward.

There are many measures that we need to be looking at and considering. One of the things that my Leader and this Party have been advocating for is a return to a manufacturing and a processing tax credit and a rebate program. This, I think, once was available to businesses and companies in the Province of Nova Scotia, and they could invest in new capital equipment and they could apply for a tax credit against income or future income and receive a rebate. This would encourage advances in technology and the kind of innovation to keep our manufacturing base healthy and competitive.

In the past, probably year and a half, before it was apparent, in fact, that we were entering into this kind of global recession, the kinds of signs were there. We saw Moirs leave, we saw TrentonWorks leave, we saw a number of manufacturing plants around the province lay off and close down.

Mr. Speaker, we know about the difficulties that the pulp and paper industry has experienced throughout the province. When you look at the NewPage Corporation in the Strait of Canso and the fact that they have, in fact, invested in new technology. As I

[Page 6727]

understand, the mill that they have now, NewPage, they in fact have invested in technology that gives them a competitive advantage in that they are the only plant now with a particular kind of mill that can make a particular kind of paper - this really is the kind of thing that we need to be looking at and it is, in fact, something that the return of a manufacturing and processing tax credit and rebate program would be very helpful around.

Mr. Speaker, I had a fair number of workers who worked at Moirs who live in my community. I remember when the announcement came around that plant - and I know my colleague here, the member for Dartmouth South-Portland Valley, spent a fair amount of time because that particular manufacturer was in her riding - I thought, what are we going to do if we lose all of our manufacturing base? When you go to a country like China, you start to see how that, in fact, is a real possibility, the threat of industries leaving North America and locating in the free trade economic development zones essentially that the Chinese Government have set up for people. When I was in China I was in a steel plant - maybe it was the steel plant that the former Tory Government sold the mill from Sydney Steel to, I don't know, but they had 12,000 workers and it was an enormous plant. It had the capacity to serve a very significant part of the world market, in terms of steel.

This is what we're up against, Mr. Speaker, in many respects when we look at our manufacturing sector. So we really need very much to look at the ways that we can use our resources to support industries that not only fit in our economy but have been really a fundamental backbone to many communities in this province.

The jobs that we have in manufacturing tend to be good jobs, well-paid, good benefits and the kind of security that people in families and communities really rely on. So this tax credit is, I think, something that this government should seriously look at.

Mr. Speaker, in addition to looking at manufacturing, of course we need to look at recessionary times as the time when people aren't in the labour force and they can be retrained. Their skills can be upgraded and their educational attainment can be improved, so that when the economy improves you're ready to hit the ground running.

Now, Mr. Speaker, we have daily, in our constituency offices, contact from people who are having real difficulty getting employment insurance, number one, and getting into the kinds of training and retraining programs that they really would need for when there is a recovery. I remember in 1995, when the federal Liberal Government of Paul Martin gutted the employment insurance program. There are many, many, many studies and reports that have been done by a wide range of think-tanks about the impact of those changes and the prediction was that if we ever faced a serious recession, we would find ourselves with a social safety net for working people that would be in tatters and, in fact, that's exactly what we have.

[Page 6728]

We have an EI system that approximately 43 per cent of the workforce can actually get access to and the rest of the labour force is ineligible for EI. We have a system that people apply to and they wait four to six weeks to get any benefits. I was at a food bank in my constituency, Parker Street, with Mr. Mel Boutilier yesterday before the House opened and I can tell you they are seeing people at the food bank who have applied for employment insurance, who cannot pay their rent, pay their mortgages, give their children the kinds of fees they need for the programs they're involved in in the school system, and they're waiting for a program that they've been paying into and they should be eligible for - and they should be eligible for it within a much shorter period of time than currently is the case. It's disgraceful that we have allowed our federal government to erode that program to the extent that we have. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable member for Richmond.

MR. MICHEL SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, it's with mixed feelings that I have the opportunity to rise to speak for a few minutes on this emergency debate that we have here this evening.

Mr. Speaker, a lot has been said about the situation we find ourselves in here in Nova Scotia and in many ways it's typical of what's being faced by other Canadian Provinces. What was mentioned earlier in Question Period, our Leader raised to the Premier, I think it's a question all Nova Scotians are asking. We know that Nova Scotia is the last province to bring in a stimulus package. We know Nova Scotia is the last Canadian Province to recall its Legislature to deal with the economy and bring forward a budget. We know Nova Scotia is the last province to bring a budget forward and, in fact, they have yet to bring a budget and if I'm not mistaken, I don't think the Minister of Finance actually gave us a date as to when he's going to be bringing in his budget. So the question that our Leader . . .

HON. JAMES MUIR: I would be happy to bring it in on Monday.

MR. SAMSON: Well, now, if he wants to bring it in on Monday, Mr. Speaker, under the British parliamentary system, as you well know, the government determines what the order of business is going to be, it is not the Opposition because I can assure you, if it was the Opposition, this House would work quite a bit differently than it has been working in the last 10 years under a Tory Government.

[5:30 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, the question that our Leader was asking, which I think is a legitimate question - and maybe the Minister of Finance wants to stand on his feet and answer it - was, what's taking so long? What has taken Nova Scotia so long to be able to bring a stimulus package together and to present the budget and recall the Legislature? I think it's a very legitimate question and if that question was answered, I and others may reflect and say, well,

[Page 6729]

okay, is that legitimate? Is it a legitimate excuse that it took this long and can they tell us here is what . . .

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please.

The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. JAMES MUIR: If he would like an answer, I think one of the things he was talking about is the fact that we - and we would be quite happy to present a budget on Monday and the two Opposition Parties just have to consent with it being tabled, Mr. Speaker, I would be happy to table it on Monday. But the other thing is the other two Parties are talking about balanced budgets.

Mr. Speaker, we would be presenting balanced budgets but all of the samples that they cited except two in the rest of the country didn't balance their budgets. So here they are, they're really talking - what do we say? - sucking and blowing at the same time. Either they want balanced budgets which we're prepared to present or they are standing up there, you know, singing the praises of governments that weren't able to balance their budgets. What is it?

MR. SAMSON: Mr. Speaker, I can tell you that we've heard a lot of talk about projects being shovel-ready. What we just heard from the Minister of Finance was a lot of shovelling but I can assure you what he was shovelling wouldn't make for very good foundations for schools or for highways here in Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, the British Parliamentary System does not require the Opposition to give consent for the government to bring in a budget. The Minister of Finance knows that. (Interruption) It does not at all. The Minister of Finance can bring in a budget when he wants to bring in a budget, following the rules that are established of two days' notice. He's known this; he's been in this House as long as I've been in, since 1998. He knows how it works.

I was going to say this later, but let me say it now because I feel bad for the Minister of Finance, I really do. The man announced that he was leaving politics after, I think, a successful career and he made, I think to the best of his abilities, his impact on Nova Scotia and on behalf of his constituents. I find it unfortunate that the Premier put him in the situation that he's been put in because unfortunately he has to stand in this House and defend a budget that he's not going to go to the polls and face Nova Scotians and say, I'm prepared to put my name on the ballot because I believe this is the best budget. That's a decision he had made beforehand, so I'm not criticizing him that he doesn't want to run now, because he announced it before.

It is very unfortunate because at the end of the day it's the Minister of Finance who brings forward the fiscal plan and then goes to Nova Scotians with the Premier and says, this

[Page 6730]

is why I think this is the best plan for Nova Scotians. This minister is not going to do that. Again, it's not a criticism, he already said he wouldn't do that, so I blame the Premier for that. The Premier put in a minister who said he's not running again to try to sell a fiscal plan that he will not have his name on the ballot saying, here is why I think this is the best fiscal plan. So that's the unfortunate situation the Minister of Finance finds himself in.

Once again, what the Minister of Finance failed to answer, and the Premier failed to answer, is what has taken so long? While the Minister of Finance might get up and criticize the budgets of the other provinces, no one here has been praising those budgets - what we've been praising is the fact they've allowed the residents in their provinces to see the budget, to at least know what stimulus plan was going to be. We can listen to the Minister of Finance all day tell us that the budget is going to be balanced. The question is, again, what has taken so long, and how are we to know as legislators that's the case when we haven't seen it? It's a very simple question and, why the Premier won't answer it, I don't know.

If the Premier could stand in this House and say to Nova Scotians, I have been working seven days a week to try to address the economic situation in Nova Scotia and I've been working as hard as I can and all of my ministers seven days a week - Mr. Speaker, with all due respect, we know that the Premier sends out his schedule every week and we all know that's not the case. So, again, we ask the question, what has taken so long? As I mentioned before, if there's a legitimate answer let's hear it. Why is it that every other Canadian province other than Nova Scotia is ahead of the game? Why is it every other government has brought forward a stimulus package and we haven't?

It's one thing as elected officials - and I hear one of them say we're blocking it. Blocking it? The budget from the federal government, which this government every year has said that we have to wait until we get the numbers from the federal government before we can bring in our budget - every year. This year the problem was the federal government pulled a fast one on them - they brought the budget in January. So we wait. February, March, April, and now we'll be into May. Four months after the federal numbers are out, we're still waiting for a budget. There's absolutely no excuse for that.

As I mentioned before, it's one thing for the government to say well look, he's a member of the Opposition so he's just criticizing us and the NDP are just criticizing us because they're in the Opposition. My thoughts on what's happening here today - I don't think I could summarize them any better than what was summarized by a respected columnist here in Nova Scotia in the article that was written today by Marilla Stephenson in The ChronicleHerald. She's not a member of the Opposition, she's not a member of the NDP or the Liberal Party as far as we're aware, but what did she write?

The headline: "Premier has only himself to blame." Interesting. So she starts off with saying: "All of a sudden, Premier Rodney MacDonald is worried about delays that may hurt the provincial economy. What gall." Not my words. Those are the words exactly from the

[Page 6731]

column. Let me read a little bit further: "It was the premier's choice to delay the spring sitting of the legislature to thereby delay the introduction of the annual budget and to delay providing an update to Nova Scotians on the state of the province's books." Nothing incorrect in that statement. She goes on and she quotes the Premier where he says: "I don't believe Nova Scotians want an election. We don't want an election. We believe that moving forward in that direction, we're going to hurt the economy." To which she responds, "Hurt the economy? If anything is hurting the economy, besides the stinging impact of job losses and shrinking revenues, it is the delay in getting government stimulus spending into Nova Scotia communities."

Not my words - those are her words. I think that's a reflection of the thoughts of most Nova Scotians. She goes on, "Now, after choosing to delay the opening of the legislature for the spring sitting, in an economic environment that surely called for an earlier-than-usual session of the House of Assembly, the Premier has no one to point the finger at but himself." How true.

I have to say, I found it sad today to watch the Premier somehow try to say it was the Leader of the NDP's fault and the Leader of the Liberal Party's fault that we find ourselves here today still waiting for a budget. I have to say, I really do find it sad and I'm sure that the nightly news tonight will reflect that and it will be reflected by Nova Scotians very shortly when they have their opportunity to be able to judge that. After 10 years in office, you have a government that's grown tired, it's grown out of ideas. The Minister of Justice has offered to resign, you have a situation going on of embarrassment on an almost continual basis. Yet now, all of a sudden, it's the Opposition's fault for the situation we find ourselves in.

She ends her column by saying this, "But had the government recalled the legislature last month, Nova Scotia could either have passed a budget or been nearly through an election campaign by now. Either way, the province would have been better-positioned to begin accessing federal stimulus programs, plus get its own programs underway by now. Instead, we have a premier complaining about opposition leaders putting politics before the economic health of the province and its people. The fault for that lies squarely at MacDonald's feet."

Mr. Speaker, I can't think of a better way to summarize my thoughts on the situation we find ourselves in. I believe that's a reflection of the thoughts of Nova Scotians. Until the Premier can stand in his place, or the Minister of Finance, and give Nova Scotians a legitimate excuse - or any excuse - as to why it's taken this long, I think the credibility of the Premier and the credibility of this government - it is right for Nova Scotians to call it into question, and that's why it's our belief that it's time to let Nova Scotians pass judgment on the decisions that have been made by this government in waiting so long to address the economic crisis existing in the Province of Nova Scotia. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Economic and Rural Development.

[Page 6732]

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, as I rise in my place here to - it's quite ironic, I'm going to respond to some of the comments I've heard from the members opposite. I have to begin by saying I find it very strange that all of a sudden, the business community in Nova Scotia has these newfound friends across here, who - I think if you ask the business community of Nova Scotia, they're scared to death of them. Businesses are scared. They very well should be, because there's no riskier bunch in this province than that sit across there.

I just want to give my colleague opposite something to think about while I'm speaking, because I'm sure he'll respond to this. I heard the honourable member for Richmond talk about this government and how slow we are getting the budget and getting before the House. I just want to remind them, I think he was a Cabinet minister in 1999 in the Liberal Government. When did they introduce the budget and the budget address? June 1, 1999, Mr. Speaker. Maybe he can answer why they were so late.

Mr. Speaker, I do as well want to say that I want to commend employees in my department and the employees of NSBI as well. Although the members opposite maybe don't agree with this, I have a tremendous amount of respect for them and the work they do on a regular basis, every day, for business in Nova Scotia. I think they deserve a lot of credit.

A year ago, those of us who were in the economic community development business were talking about developing new products, talking about new opportunities, hiring new people, and expanding markets. Mr. Speaker, that was the world a year ago here in Nova Scotia. It seems the only people in the whole Province of Nova Scotia that don't understand that things have changed are the people sitting across from us here. Where have they been for the last year? Things have changed and all they want to talk (Interruptions) Mr. Speaker, I gave the honourable member the respect to listen to her and I ask her to give me the same respect. I sat and listened to her speech and I ask for the same respect.

Mr. Speaker, you know all of a sudden they want to talk about China and they want to talk about wherever else in the world they traveled, I have no idea. I want to talk about Nova Scotia, the opportunity to work right here in Nova Scotia. Never mind China, China has caused enough of a threat to Canada now when it comes to imports in this country. So you worry about China and I'll worry about Nova Scotia.

Mr. Speaker, we're faced with a global economic downturn that we've seen in 2008 has affected many of the strongest sectors in Canada and in the world. The story is no different here in Nova Scotia but you know there is one difference - our province continues to outperform Canada in job creation. In March statistics, as the Premier said, Nova Scotia added 4,100 jobs over the last year while this country has seen a loss of 165,000 jobs.

Mr. Speaker, as indicated earlier as well, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan have seen increases in this past year, something we're very proud of. In fact, in Nova Scotia - they should listen to this opposite because these are the facts - the honourable Leader who said

[Page 6733]

earlier that we are afraid of the facts, which I wish he was here to hear this, who said that we are afraid of the facts, well here are the facts, folks. The facts are we had a record high in Nova Scotia with more than 454,000 people working in the month of March in this province.

Yes, Mr. Speaker, we've seen challenges in our local business and entrepreneurs are facing those challenges. Many successful firms are finding banks are less willing to loan money to them. I think I heard in the media recently that the Industrial Expansion Fund, which I'm going to talk about here in a few moments, I think the honourable Leader of the Liberal Party has even suggested we do away with that. Do you know what that would do to businesses of Nova Scotia? Do you know what that would do to the manufacturers who they want to sit over there and talk about? Last year $59 million in the Industrial Expansion Fund, 70 per cent, $40 million, where did it go in Nova Scotia? To manufacturers. Do you know where they would be today?

Well you know what? The honourable NDP member can say pork barrel but you want to talk about established business in Nova Scotia that created jobs for decades, and they say they're taking part in pork barrel politics, well good luck to you because they are good employers who have come to us to say we need help. (Applause)

You can call businesses in Nova Scotia who have worked for years, paid taxes, created good jobs in small communities, they can call those names of those businesses all they want but I'll tell you, Mr. Speaker, I have the utmost respect for those businesses and business owners in this province and what they're doing. I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, I've met with many of them since January and they've told us time and time again the Industrial Expansion Fund - in fact, just to recall a little history here - has been in place for decades. In fact, when the Liberal Government was in power they certainly used it. They thought it was a great thing at the time, now they want to do away with it, so which is it?

[5:45 p.m.]

Mr. Speaker, it's a good fund. It's administered by good professionals, great people who have the respect of this province and the government. I'll tell you, they do a good job and the Industrial Expansion Fund helps a lot of people and a lot of businesses. I'll tell you, Mr. Speaker, we as a government won't do away with that. In fact, we're expanding it and businesses are very appreciative of that.

Mr. Speaker, in February 2009, as I said, we increased the Industrial Expansion Fund by $175 million - the largest increase in the fund's history - and it has helped several companies and created lots of jobs. In fact, over the last five to six years, the Industrial Expansion Fund has created and maintained 11,000 jobs. Now the ironic part is that many

[Page 6734]

of those people are in my riding, sure they are, and they are in the ridings of members opposite. So why don't you go home and tell those people that the Industrial Expansion Fund was useless and if you had your chance you'd do away with it and don't worry about their jobs; they'll find a job somewhere else. But the Industrial Expansion Fund has maintained and created those jobs and it is important that Nova Scotians know that.

Mr. Speaker, the Industrial Expansion Fund has helped numerous companies stabilize their operations, invest in new technology, improve their productivity and competitiveness and we're proud of that. Increases to the fund does not mean that it will only help support business ready to expand in new technology but also to maintain current jobs.

Mr. Speaker, we've seen many funds increase now because businesses understand that this year is a year of retaining what we have and we understand it, with challenging times.

Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about a few businesses that have taken advantage of many programs this province offers. The business development officer of LED Roadway Lighting, for example - an innovative Nova Scotia company that designs, develops, manufacturers and markets energy-efficient roadway lighting - what did he say? The $1 million loan from IEF meant he could hire research staff and invest in technology. That's exactly what we should be doing in this province.

In the Annapolis Valley, members across from the Annapolis Valley, Apple Valley Foods received a $1.5 million loan guarantee. The president said without this loan, the company would not be able to grow his business and what do you say to it? Porkbarrelling. A $15 million loan, IEF to Northern Pulp, now, where would Northern Pulp be located? Who said porkbarrelling? Pictou County. It came from over there, Mr. Speaker. That loan from IEF to Northern Pulp protected 650 forestry operators - 800 indirect jobs. That's 1,450 jobs needed protection in Pictou County, in Nova Scotia, and we're proud of that.

Mr. Speaker, through the efforts of NSBI and the payroll rebate Nova Scotia has been able to attract some of the world's leading companies in IT, defence and aerospace and financial services. We're attracting international players like Flagstone, a global reinsurance provider. Lockheed Martin, one of the world's top defence companies, and where do they say the best place in the world to do business is? Right here in Nova Scotia, with the help of this government.

Mr. Speaker, business communities throughout the province are making critical investments in their own competitiveness. Another example, in Cornwallis, Acadian Seaplants in Cornwallis, they've developed expertise in a wide range of seaweed harvesting, processing and product manufacturing technologies. As mentioned earlier, Bradean's Tool and Dye in Amherst, Cumberland County, is going to create an additional 35 jobs and they're working in the aerospace and defence sector as well.

[Page 6735]

The province through Nova Scotia Business Inc. is supporting the growth in a payroll rebate and Bradean's Tool and Dye will produce a range of aircraft parts, components and tooling for such things as fuel tanks, wings and cargo doors. Mr. Speaker, those two young men that the Premier and I met last week are very proud of what they've been able to do and we're very proud to be able to help them.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia is at the forefront of innovation. InNOVAcorp is a driving force in a knowledge economy and innovation capital markets in Nova Scotia - it is internationally recognized. The business model has helped Nova Scotia companies generate over $278 million in export revenues and employ more than 1,440 people in Nova Scotia last year alone.

AN HON. MEMBER: Tell us more, minister. (Laughter)

MR. SCOTT: Entrepreneurial activity in rural Nova Scotia is alive and well . . .

AN HON. MEMBER: It's story time back there.

MR. SCOTT: Well, you know, Mr. Speaker, the honourable member opposite said this is just a story time. Well, maybe to them. To me this is very serious business. (Interruptions) Well, you can call names all you want, I take this very seriously. The job I have, I think, is one of the most important in government today. Business is looking for leadership, not someone sitting across the hall making fun about it and heckling about what we're talking about here tonight.

Mr. Speaker, InNOVAcorp received 121 formal submissions from entrepreneurs across Nova Scotia. IT technology started up competition and that was just over a year ago. We find examples of this right across this province. Medusa Medical Technologies is delivering electronic patented record software products and services around the world. MorSwift Machines in Digby designs and manufactures products for the international packaging industry. LED Roadway Lighting, I mentioned a moment ago, has developed energy-efficient roadway lighting and is targeting international markets around the world. Protocase in Sydney delivers custom prototype enclosures to the largest brand-name electronics companies in the world. These companies with the help of this government, obviously, are globally competitive and very proud of our province, and we're very proud of them.

Mr. Speaker, our team in Economic and Rural Development works with our partners and as was suggested earlier we should be doing. Well, if they took a little time to do a little research, they would see that the professionals in my department and NSBI are in fact partnering with businesses throughout Nova Scotia. We're pursuing sustainability, growing our businesses and our communities. We are improving the bottom line and making a

[Page 6736]

positive impact on the environment. It is our goal to make Nova Scotia one of the cleanest and most sustainable environments in the world by 2020.

Mr. Speaker, something that's very important to business across this province, the residents and individuals, is a commitment made by the Premier in 2006 to ensure high-speed Internet was available to all Nova Scotia.

We will complete the broadband rural Nova Scotia initiative this year, Mr. Speaker. This will only enhance our position to truly exploit opportunity when the economy begins to recover.

Mr. Speaker, our communities are rich and diverse. Through the Business Retention & Expansion Program, we're working with businesses on the community level to identify opportunities and help overcome barriers to their success. It is an especially vital program during these uncertain times and an important part of our economic growth strategy.

Mr. Speaker, this year we invested more than $280,000 in provincial support for the BRE Program which is now expanded to all six regional development authorities across the Province of Nova Scotia. Through $25 million in strategic investments last year, the Community Development Trust is now hard at work in key sectors, including the forestry, fishery, aquaculture, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism. This fund is also helping to strengthen rural communities such as Canso and Trenton.

Mr. Speaker, I see you're telling me I'm running out of time. I just want to end off by saying this, that unlike the Opposition - I think it's pretty clear today there's not a lot of confidence in our economy, our province or our business people from what we've heard across the way here tonight. So unlike the Opposition, we're confident in our ability to increase prosperity for all Nova Scotians through economic and rural development programs and the Building for Growth stimulus plan. We are taking action and we are investing in our communities and in our people for the future.

Mr. Speaker, I see I have one moment left. I just want to let you know that today I received word from a major construction company in this province that tells me this; if this budget does not pass - and this is not me saying this, this is a business owner - if this budget does not pass, in a month and a half he'll be out of work, he'll be laying off 700 people, as well countless hundreds of other indirect jobs. The responsibility for those layoffs will be at the feet of the people across here. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: Thank you.

The honourable member for Pictou East.

[Page 6737]

MR. CLARRIE MACKINNON: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Jobs are being lost in this province from North of Smokey, right through to Yarmouth, and where are we? I think the Minister of Economic and Rural Development should be speaking to the Premier because the minister just said things have changed. The Premier said, let's do a comparison with the budget of this year and the date of it with the date of last year. That is a continuation of the head-in-the-sand approach that has been taken by this government.

You know I hope that the Premier will, in fact, run an election campaign on one of his statements, that the people of Nova Scotia, or Nova Scotia, has fared much better than the rest of Canada. There are a lot of people in my constituency and throughout the Province of Nova Scotia who do not agree with that. Run on that, run on that.

You know, here we are - the last province in Canada to bring in a budget. The last fiscal update we had was in December and here we are in a situation with the Premier saying in a speech a few minutes ago, I'm more concerned with this, I'm more concerned with that. The Premier is more concerned about trying to save the hide of this government.

You know people in my constituency and throughout the province just got a newsletter or a huge leaflet form piece of information about 20,000 jobs. That, incidentally, looked to me like a campaign piece but it was paid for in publication and in mailing distribution, tens and tens of thousands of dollars going out in a cost to the taxpayers of Nova Scotia, tens of thousands of dollars were spent on that and a woman said to me the other day, I'd like to have one of those 20,000 jobs.

We are in a situation with just information released to us, the labour force in Nova Scotia decreased from February to March, falling by 2,700 or one half of a percentage point, on a monthly basis. Seasonally adjusted employment in the province also fell, dropping by 3,000 on a month over month basis. These decreases were, in fact, concentrated in full-time work.

We have an unemployment rate of 8.9 per cent in Nova Scotia, and there are all kinds of people out there who are not included in that 8.9 per cent. We have a government in Ottawa that is not overly concerned with the average Canadian or the average Nova Scotian. From an EI perspective, I get so many calls in northern Nova Scotia in relation to EI. We have a situation where the government in Ottawa is not concerned about the average Nova Scotian, the average Nova Scotian in his or her family. And we have a government in Nova Scotia who, over the last number of months, is more concerned about staying alive than dealing with the economic situation in this province.

In so many things, we have regressed so much in relation - the word "pork barrel" was used. When I look at the school construction list - a government that may have hours or days left, making commitments for the next seven years and making a lot of those

[Page 6738]

commitments based on politics. A lot of those commitments are based on politics - priorities of school boards are being totally ignored.

We, in this province - well, I'll tell you what ones I'm for, some of the ones I'm for, because the top of the school board list in my area involved two schools in my constituency that are not even mentioned in that seven years. The priorities have been totally ignored. We are going back in time to the old-time politics. We had three Premiers in Nova Scotia who helped to move us away somewhat from the old system, and two of them, in fact, were Progressive Conservatives.

[6:00 p.m.]

One of them was Premier Donnie Cameron. Premier Donnie Cameron tried to make a few changes. Premier Savage tried to make a few changes in the pork-barrel system. We had Dr. Hamm, who actually was doing a lot of good in relation to some areas and he has a legacy which is being destroyed by an anti-Dr. Hamm piece of legislation that is coming forward in a financial perspective. But we also have a government that has moved (Interruption) Dr. Hamm was involved with the promotion of Nova Scotia Business Inc. to take the politics out of the system to some degree. Here we have a government with Cabinet approval being the order of the day in relation to the industrial expansion fund.

Now, certainly in some areas there is a need for the industrial expansion fund. But to pump so much money into the Industrial Expansion Fund and at the very same time, almost creating a bit of competition with Nova Scotia Business Inc. to some degree - I think we have had a return to the politics of the 1940s and 1950s with this government, and the people of Nova Scotia will remember what is going on in this province.

Just on Tuesday of this week, I had a young constituent in my office who has been waiting for his EI since March 4^th, and I had my constituency send me a fax a few minutes ago with just a few examples of what is happening in the EI spectrum. Last September, constituents were told by the EI office that they were four weeks behind with processing and I could go through the list where it has developed. Last month, a constituent waited for six weeks from the time of the first filing before receiving any cheque and there were no hitches or no problems with the claim. I believe this government should be dealing with its counterpart in Ottawa for the people of Nova Scotia.

You know, job creation is something that my Leader is putting forward in a manufacturing and processing tax credit. The business community that I am dealing with is very concerned with what's happening in this province, and there is tremendous support for my leader in relation to this manufacturing tax credit, which will in fact create jobs in Nova Scotia and it will be done without the pork-barrelism that has been occurring within the province.

[Page 6739]

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The chair recognizes the honourable Minister of Economic and Rural Development.

HON. MURRAY SCOTT: Mr. Speaker, I was wondering if the honourable member opposite will take a question.

MR. SPEAKER: Will the honourable member from Pictou East take a question?

MR. MACKINNON: Mr. Speaker, my time has expired and, actually, the government is on its last breath as well.

MR. SPEAKER: Order, please. The honourable member's time has expired. The chair now recognizes the honorable member from Digby-Annapolis.

MR. HAROLD THERIAULT: Mr. Speaker, I wasn't going to speak on this but I guess by the looks of you here, I've got to. (Laughter) I would like to start by getting into some of our resources and some of the economic problems that we have there. I want to start with one that's certainly dear to my heart and to my family, and that's our lobster fishery in this province. I want to go back a ways to start this - I want to go back to 1999, that was 10 years ago, when the Supreme Court made a ruling in this country. The problems were started financially then by DFO, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. I'm going to get into how the province hasn't really helped out here in this situation, and if we don't, we're going to see one of the major fisheries in this province - I'm not sure where it's going to go. If I could predict that, well, maybe I wouldn't be here.

In 1999 a decision was made. DFO was given a mandate to get the Aboriginal fishermen into the fishery, so they started trying to buy up the licenses and couldn't - the enterprises - so they had to start jacking up the prices of the enterprises, the boats, and licenses to get a hold of them, to satisfy that Supreme Court ruling. Things were good, the market was good, fairly good, the fishery was fairly good, the fishery still is fairly good, but now the problem has come into the market.

Some of these young fellows in the past six or seven years have paid $1 million to get into this fishery. Last Fall we saw what happened in the fishery - we saw what happened to a lot of things. In the fishery the price went to half on them, to what those young people had, those young men had planned for. On a $6 lobster they could pay for a $1 million rig if they had enough time to do it. That went into half on them, Mr. Speaker, last year. I'm not sure whether it was the market or I'm not too sure whether it was a lot of propaganda, but I do know one thing for a fact, that the financial officer of a big company in this province just stated three weeks ago - and I have that and I could find it and table it if need be - that they would have had bigger problems in that company if they had not gotten all the cheap lobsters they bought in the Fall of the year. I'll leave that there and you can make your own decision out of that.

[Page 6740]

So we have the buyers working against the fishery too. I don't know why - I've got theories, but I won't get into that. So you've got a lot of young fishermen, you've got 10 or 15 per cent of them around this coast who are on the verge of bankruptcy right now. When you go down through my riding, I know every one of them and a lot of them have their homes for sale and they have their half-ton trucks parked out at the end of the driveway with "for sale" signs on them. That's going on today, right now.

I know for a fact they've gone to the bank. Some of them have gone to the bank and some to the loan board - 20-some per cent through the loan board; 30 per cent through the banks of this country. So over half of the fleet is in debt - huge debt some of them. The loan board has eased up, the loan board helped them out this year by forgiving some loans, and also the loan board is going to help the young people to get into this by long-term loans. That's kind of good, but I'll get into that a little bit later.

The banks are refusing to work with some of these young people - give me your money or else, that's what's going on. So you have some of the young fellows down there with the crews leaving them because there was no money in it, so you have them starting to tie one of the boats up and one crew going aboard one boat. They're going to try to pay for these rigs.

Now, the loan board was good, the loan board came out with a thing here, the minister did, by letting young people get into this and giving them a long term to buy. But what about that 20 to 50 per cent who got into this since the Marshall decision, who have a $1 million debt over their head - who is going to help them?

I wrote to the Minister of Fisheries of this country and the reply back in a letter was, we're concerned. That's what they said - they were concerned. That's all I got, nothing more. So how are we going to stop this bankruptcy from happening in the lobster fishery, that's coming on? It's coming. I stood in this House last May, right here, and I told you it was coming. I told you a lot of things were coming. It's coming true and there's worse coming yet and I guarantee it. We haven't seen anything yet to what we're going to see. So I'm not sure who is going to help these young fishermen get through this; I'm not sure how it's going to happen. I know they're scrambling; I know that they're even breaking the law, some of them. It's happening and it's going to get worse.

I don't know what it's going to do to the industry. I know what it's doing to the coastal communities - the crews are walking away now. They were going to Alberta - I think that has stopped, so you're going to see worse. You're going to see more of them coming back here to these coastal communities. I'm not sure what for, but they're going to come back.

[Page 6741]

In the clamming industry down there we have a problem. We have a $9 million industry down there in that little area that has been cut in half this past year. For a year and a half, two years, there's been an overflow from a sewer down there that nobody seems to want to fix. I'm not sure why, but it has cut that completely in half, that fishery, because when it rains, they shut the beaches down because of overflow. Then they have to wait six or seven or eight days for somebody to do a test on them, if they can get them to do it. Why are we letting something like this happen?

You got it in for the forestry down there. Here's all the trees cut off, the forest workers are out of work, the farmers are paying double for their fertilizer this year to what they normally pay. I'm not sure about the answers to anything, but I know there are problems and I know they're going to get bigger if we don't work to try to fix them. The biggest one is going to be in that lobster fishery around this coast. You have a $0.5 billion industry and half of it's going to go under. I'm not sure where it's going to go, but it's going under. Those young fellows cannot handle the debt they have alone.

Anyway, with that, I'll close. I was going to get into the debt, and why this province should be going$1.4 billion more into debt when I have people from financial institutions telling me the best thing you can do in hard times is try to get out of debt and you'll survive it. If there's stimulus money got to come into these provinces of this country, maybe the federal government better ante up the works. With that, I'll take my seat.

MR. SPEAKER: The honourable Minister of Finance.

HON. JAMES MUIR: Mr. Speaker, it is with mixed emotions that I rise today to speak on the very important topic of Nova Scotia's economy. There are some preliminary plans - this government recognizes that things need to be done to stimulate the economy, and we have a plan to do that.

It's very interesting to hear the member for Pictou East stand up there and say that, along with his colleagues, the loan to Northern Pulp from the Industrial Expansion Fund of $15 million, which is keeping people in the constituency of Pictou East, Pictou West, and Pictou Centre, is pork-barrel politics. I hope if he ever gets to the door, he will look at them and he's going to say the same thing and you know, not only that, I did a real service because last year I voted against the single largest loan to the fishing industry in over 60 years when he voted against the budget. As did the member for Shelburne and the member for Pictou West, and yet they will stand on their feet and say, we have the answers to the economy. You know as well as I do that they are not to be trusted with the economy of this province.

[6:15 p.m.]

[Page 6742]

The other thing, Mr. Speaker - this morning we had, in the Red Room, a very good announcement from the federal government. It was stimulus money from the federal government, because the provincial government is going to have to partner in that. You know, when I look on that side of the House I see the member for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island, who has four universities in his constituency, saying he is going to vote against stimulus money for universities.

I see the representatives for Halifax Needham and Halifax Chebucto, and I don't know which one has the Leeds Street community college in their constituency - it's one of the two of them (Interruption) It's Needham? She stands up on her feet and says she is not going to vote to support community colleges in this province. I'm really kind of at a loss to see the logic of this.

We also - and I probably said it today in a way which the Speaker said probably wasn't appropriate - we have a budget, which in large part is intended to help Nova Scotia through this relatively slow period of the economy and get us back to normal. Well, as one of my colleagues said today, Economics 1, Economics 2, Economics 3 and Economics 4, they say if the private sector is not in a position to keep things moving then it is probably the responsibility of the government to step in. We are a government who wants to step in, but the Opposition at this particular point refuses to allow us to present our plan to the people.

Mr. Speaker, we have included in our budget - the Finance Critic for the Official Opposition says table it Monday. Look, I want to tell you, and I will tell the member for Digby-Annapolis down there, you go to your Leader and you go to your Leader and you say you work with our Leader and our House Leader, we are quite prepared to table that budget on Monday. I challenge you, allow us to table the budget Monday. (Interuptions)

You want to see it, we want to show it. All you have to do is get together. The honourable member for Richmond talks about House Rules, but I'm sure more of you are more astute parliamentarians than I am. Despite having been in this House for 11 years, I'm not really one to ask about the rules, but I do know that if everybody consents you can do it. I hope the Leaders would respond to the offer.

One of the other things that I would like to mention to you and it has to do with a stimulus package and they say, well, it's not good economics at this time to add to the debt. (Interruption) And here is the member from Halifax Citadel-Sable Island, refuse to support universities. Our debt, as I said this morning, is a little bit more than $12 billion, but one of things that the members of this House should understand, and I think they do, is that we also have an infrastructure deficit of around $8 billion. So if you add up what we owe somebody and what we ought to do, you get up to about $20 billion. We were committed or prepared - and we have said this publicly - as a stimulus package, to attack the infrastructure deficit, to contribute $1.4 billion.

[Page 6743]

Now at the same time, the stimulus package, which would be contributing to the infrastructure deficit - you put money to correct that infrastructure deficit, you are diminishing the liability for that. Is that right? Everybody nods their head, yes. So we put $1.9 billion dollars against that $8 billion infrastructure deficit and at the end of a two-year period, three-year stimulus package we've got a $6.1 billion dollar infrastructure deficit. We also have, at the same time, increased the debt from $12 billion to about $13.1 billion. The current debt that we have, if you add together the infrastructure debt, the actual dollar debt is about $20 billion dollars. At the end of three years, if we get that money from the federal government - our bet is it's going to be $500 million dollars less than that, it's going to be $19.5 billion dollars. Just look at the numbers. It is false economy - (Interruption) if you don't want to look at it - not to go to the federal government and accept that infrastructure money.

In addition, as the Premier has said, the Minister of Economic and Rural Development has said, and some of my other colleagues have said in debate and in answering the questions today, the stimulus package over a three-year period is supposed to put about 20,000 people either back to work or create new jobs. The fact that the other two Parties at this time will not allow us to table a budget would indicate to me, very clear, that they are against the creation or the maintenance of 20,000 jobs in a sluggish economy.

Now, Mr. Speaker, you tell me that that is responsible. Again, I will challenge them. If one of the members from the New Democratic Party and one of the members from the Liberal Party would like to stand on their feet and tell me that they will go back to their Leaders and say they will allow us to bring in the budget concurrently with the changes to the Financial Measures Act, we will (Interruptions) No, I'm quite happy to say that, you know, to do that, and I challenge them to do that, but they won't do it because they know that we have a good plan. They can't handle the truth.

Now, in terms of our plan to stimulate the economy, it was not only the Road Builders, the Road Builders whom I think my colleague in Economic and Rural Development said that if the stimulus package was not passed, one company - 700 jobs - 700 people would not go back to work. We have an organization like the Halifax Board of Trade saying, pass the budget and get the stimulus package going.

Mr. Speaker, even the editorial in The ChronicleHerald today - and as people know, sometimes I would say in recent months there have occasionally been comments in The ChronicleHerald that have not been particularly complimentary to the government - but I want to read just a couple of paragraphs:

"PREMIER RODNEY MacDonald is right about one thing. There is a real public interest in getting a provincial budget passed so capital spending can flow to the weakened economy before more of the construction season is lost. Nor is it good for the economy or employment right now to have public works tenders and commitments shut down by a snap

[Page 6744]

election campaign. . . The best economic policy is to keep the infrastructure spending flowing, which means getting at least one opposition party to support a budget."

Mr. Speaker, we have to have - to get this stimulus out there, we need the co-operation of one of the other Parties, and at least allow us to table the budget so you can see our plan and we can present the plan to people. (Applause)

MR. SPEAKER: The time has expired for the emergency debate this evening. I want to thank all the honourable members for having taken part in this emergency debate.

The motion for adjournment was made earlier.

The House will rise to sit again tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.

The House stands adjourned.

[The House rose at 6:25 p.m.]

[Page 6745]

RESOLUTION NO. 6532

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas the IWK Health Centre Foundation plays an integral role in children's health care in Nova Scotia; and

Whereas the IWK is a member of the Children's Miracle Network whose mission it is to generate funds and awareness programs to benefit more than 17 million children at affiliated hospitals in Canada; and

Whereas every year the IWK and the Children's Miracle Network choose a Champion Child to represent their organizations throughout the Maritimes in support of the IWK Telethon for Children;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize MacKenzie Colp, the 2009 Children's Miracle Network Champion Child chosen for her ability to live life to the fullest despite all of her challenges, as well as her indomitable spirit.

RESOLUTION NO. 6533

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas the Special Olympics are important for the health and well-being of our residents with intellectual disabilities; and

Whereas the Special Olympics is not only a competition among athletes but also a path to empowerment, acceptance and joy; and

Whereas competitors from around the world came together to compete and promote the message that people with intellectual disabilities can and will succeed if given the opportunity;

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Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Alexander Shenkel after his bronze and silver medal wins in snowshoeing at the World Winter Special Olympics held in February, 2009, thereby proving that people of all abilities can flourish with support, dedication and hard work.

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas physical activity is important for the health and well- being of residents of Queens, and a new recreation centre will have a significant impact on the future good health of the residents of the region; and

Whereas community support of local preventative initiatives are vital in underscoring the importance of physical activity to our overall health; and

Whereas Queens Place requires public and private funding in order for it to be realized and to begin to make a positive impact on the community;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Eleanor Seeley for her $100,000 contribution to Queens Place and her continued support of health care in Queens.

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas physical activity is so important for the health and well- being of our youth in Queens County, and skating is one of those wonderful activities; and

Whereas athletes from the Queens County Blades spent several days at the Skate Dartmouth Invitational in February; and

Whereas hundreds of athletes from across the Maritimes competed in this event;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Chloe Pitre for her outstanding performances which earned her a bronze medal in the Junior Bronze Short Program.

[Page 6747]

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas entrepreneurism is important for the development of our local economy; and

Whereas a group of students interested in learning the ropes of entrepreneurism took courses in customer service, public relations, and what it means to be an entrepreneur; and

Whereas these students researched and developed Organically Fair Coffees, learning about pricing, packaging, marketing and distribution, and created a business plan;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize the team behind Organically Fair Coffees for their dedication, hard work and enterprising spirit, and for encouraging entrepreneurship by example for all citizens of the community.

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas physical activity is so important for the health and well-being of our youth in Queens County, and skating is one of those wonderful activities; and

Whereas athletes from the Queens County Blades spent several days at the Skate Dartmouth Invitational in February; and

Whereas hundreds of athletes from across the Maritimes competed in this event;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Bailey Selig for her outstanding performances which earned her a silver medal in the Juvenile Ladies category.

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

[Page 6748]

Whereas the work of fire departments and first responders is crucial for the health and safety of our community; and

Whereas community support of volunteer fire departments and first responders is vital in underscoring the importance of these services to the public; and

Whereas volunteer fire departments and first responders rely on public and private funds in order to serve the public;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize the Liverpool Lions Club for their $2,500 donation to each of six fire departments and the West Queens First Responders and for pledging to make this donation a yearly tradition.

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas physical activity is important for the health and well-being of residents of Queens, and curling is one of these activities; and

Whereas Team Christianson of the CFB Halifax club competed in the Provincial Junior Women's Curling Championships and the National Junior Championships in January and February; and

Whereas many competitors battled at both events and performed admirably;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Brooklyn resident and Team Christianson Lead, Kaitlin Fralic, for helping the team come in first in the provincials and placing 8^th at the national championships.

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas physical activity is so important for the health and well-being of our youth in Queens County, and skating is one of those wonderful activities; and

[Page 6749]

Whereas athletes from the Queens County Blades spent several days at the Skate Dartmouth Invitational in February; and

Whereas hundreds of athletes from across the Maritimes competed in this event;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Chloe Conklin for her outstanding performances which earned her a bronze medal in the Pre-Juvenile Ladies category.

RESOLUTION NO. 6541

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a peaceful environment is a necessity in order for society to grow, work and play together effectively; and

Whereas the ideals of peace and conflict management are best learned from a young age; and

Whereas North Queens Rural School held "Peace Day" on February 13, 2009 in order to promote peace both in and out of school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize student Nicholas van Dyk for his untiring dedication in making "Peace Day" a dynamic event for his school allowing his fellow students to understand and appreciate the importance of peace in society.

RESOLUTION NO. 6542

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a peaceful environment is a necessity in order for society to grow, work and play together effectively; and

Whereas the ideals of peace and conflict management are best learned from a young age; and

[Page 6750]

Whereas North Queens Rural School held "Peace Day" on February 13, 2009 in order to promote peace both in and out of school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize student Mya Uhlman for her untiring dedication in making "Peace Day" a dynamic event for her school allowing her fellow students to understand and appreciate the importance of peace in society.

RESOLUTION NO. 6543

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a peaceful environment is a necessity in order for society to grow, work and play together effectively; and

Whereas the ideals of peace and conflict management are best learned from a young age; and

Whereas North Queens Rural School held "Peace Day" on February 13, 2009 in order to promote peace both in and out of school;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize student Julie Ramey for her untiring dedication in making "Peace Day" a dynamic event for her school allowing her fellow students to understand and appreciate the importance of peace in society.

RESOLUTION NO. 6544

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a peaceful environment is a necessity in order for society to grow, work and play together effectively; and

Whereas the ideals of peace and conflict management are best learned from a young age; and

Whereas North Queens Rural School held "Peace Day" on February 13, 2009 in order to promote peace both in and out of school;

[Page 6751]

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize student Maggi Labrador for her untiring dedication in making "Peace Day" a dynamic event for her school allowing her fellow students to understand and appreciate the importance of peace in society.

RESOLUTION NO. 6545

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a central electronic point of information is important to residents of rural communities; and

Whereas business and tourism development relies heavily on the Internet for information and research; and

Whereas this past March, the North Queens Board of Trade launched their website Discovercaledonia.ca;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Mike McNeil for his part in creating this website and providing a valuable tool that will provide information to prospective visitors, showcase the community as a great place to live and work, and will serve as a resource for local residents with up-to-date information on events, facilities, and services.

RESOLUTION NO. 6546

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a central electronic point of information is important to residents of rural communities; and

Whereas business and tourism development relies heavily on the Internet for information and research; and

Whereas this past March, the North Queens Board of Trade launched their website Discovercaledonia.ca;

[Page 6752]

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Richard Lane for his part in creating this website and providing a valuable tool that will provide information to prospective visitors, showcase the community as a great place to live and work, and will serve as a resource for local residents with up-to-date information on events, facilities, and services.

[Page 6753]

RESOLUTION NO. 6547

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a central electronic point of information is important to residents of rural communities; and

Whereas business and tourism development relies heavily on the Internet for information and research; and

Whereas this past March, the North Queens Board of Trade launched their Web site Discovercaledonia.ca;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Don Kimball for his part in creating this website and providing a valuable tool that will provide information to prospective visitors, showcase the community as a great place to live and work, and will serve as a resource for local residents with up-to-date information on events, facilities, and services.

RESOLUTION NO. 6548

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a central electronic point of information is important to residents of rural communities; and

Whereas business and tourism development relies heavily on the Internet for information and research; and

Whereas this past March, the North Queens Board of Trade launched their website Discovercaledonia.ca;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Mary Keirstead for her part in creating this website and providing a valuable tool that will provide information to prospective visitors, showcase the community as a great place to live and work, and will serve as a resource for local residents with up-to-date information on events, facilities, and services.

[Page 6754]

RESOLUTION NO. 6549

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas a central electronic point of information is important to residents of rural communities; and

Whereas business and tourism development relies heavily on the Internet for information and research; and

Whereas this past March, the North Queens Board of Trade launched their website Discovercaledonia.ca;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Jean Douglas for her part in creating this website and providing a valuable tool that will provide information to prospective visitors, showcase the community as a great place to live and work, and will serve as a resource for local residents with up-to-date information on events, facilities, and services.

RESOLUTION NO. 6550

By: Ms. Vicki Conrad (Queens)

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

Whereas education and teaching play significant roles in the continuing development and advancement of our society; and

Whereas a developed appreciation of different cultures can only serve to broaden our horizons and nurture cooperative living; and

Whereas several students traveled to Grenada to teach local youth and in turn learn from local leaders and educators;

Therefore be it resolved that the House of Assembly recognize Leah Corkum for her attendance and participation in the Service Learning trip where she was actively involved in helping out in rural schools and learned about local issues and lifestyles, thereby increasing her appreciation of the world outside our borders and raising Canada's profile abroad.

[Page 6755]

RESOLUTION NO. 6551

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas the Clare community is very proud of its dedicated volunteers; and

Whereas this year the Clare community has selected one of its outstanding citizens as Volunteer of the Year and this individual has given much in the way of time and energy to various organizations over the years; and

Whereas through this individual's genuine warmth and caring toward others she has become a valuable asset to the organization that she has been involved in;

Therefore be it resolved that the members of this House extend best wishes and congratulations to Jacqueline Mullen of St. Bernard for her outstanding contribution to her community.

RESOLUTION NO. 6552

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas the St. Mary's Bay Academy Stingrays hosted the 2009 Division III Senior Boys Provincial Basketball Championship in March, 2009; and

Whereas the hosting team played last year's defending champions Hants North Flames in the Championship Game; and

Whereas the St. Mary's Bay Stingrays defeated Hants North Flames 73-64 in the final game;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate the St. Mary's Bay Academy Stingrays Senior Boys Team and their coach Craig Glavin for winning the 2009 Division 3 Senior Boys Provincial Basketball Championship.

[Page 6756]

RESOLUTION NO. 6553

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas the 2009 Provincial Under 18 Junior Mixed Curling Championships were held in Liverpool from March 14^th to 17^th; and

Whereas the team from Clare defeated the team from Dartmouth in the final game; and

Whereas the team from Clare is composed of skip Daniel Surette, Yvelle Pothier, Chantal Surette and Jeff LeBlanc;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate the team from Clare, along with their coach Charles Surette, for winning the 2009 Provincial Under 18 Junior Mixed Curling Championship.

RESOLUTION NO. 6554

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas Faye Haley, Chair of the Tri-County Regional School Board is the 2009 Recipient of the Nova Scotia School Boards Association Education Week Partner Award; and

Whereas Board Chair Faye Haley was honoured during the provincial education awards ceremony which took place in Dartmouth in April; and

Whereas this award recognizes the outstanding contributions Ms. Haley has made to the lives of young people;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this Legislature congratulate Board Chair Faye Haley as the recipient of the 2009 Nova Scotia Boards Association Education Week Partner Award.

[Page 6757]

RESOLUTION NO. 6555

By: Mr. Wayne Gaudet (Clare)

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

Whereas strong community support and detailed care to the Hampton Lighthouse by members of the Hampton Lighthouse and Historical Society yielded rewarding results; and

Whereas the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Preservation Society announced at its general meeting recently that the Hampton group were the recipients of the Craig Harding Lighthouse Preservation Award; and

Whereas the award is named after the late Craig Harding, a volunteer from Yarmouth who led the campaign to save the Cape Forchu lighthouse and help lighthouse groups across the province;

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating the members of The Hampton Lighthouse and Historical Society for their outstanding work in saving lighthouses in Nova Scotia.

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Carly Gillis for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6758]

RESOLUTION NO. 6557

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Abby Koens for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

RESOLUTION NO. 6558

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Sam Elliott for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6759]

RESOLUTION NO. 6559

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Wolverines coach Nick Baskwill for his direction and commitment in ensuring the girls' celebrated a successful season.

RESOLUTION NO. 6560

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Lindsay Roy for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6760]

RESOLUTION NO. 6561

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Kerstin Wetter for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

RESOLUTION NO. 6562

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Kelsey Adams for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6761]

RESOLUTION NO. 6563

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Kailee Hebb for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

RESOLUTION NO. 6564

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Jenay Armstrong for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6762]

RESOLUTION NO. 6565

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Janyne Crocker for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

RESOLUTION NO. 6566

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Jani Martinius for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6763]

RESOLUTION NO. 6567

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Wolverines coach Greg Bower for his direction and commitment in ensuring the girls' celebrated a successful season.

RESOLUTION NO. 6568

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas on the weekend of March 7^th in New Waterford, the Middleton Regional High School Girls Wolverines defeated the NKEC Titans by one point to capture the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title; and

Whereas cheered on by family and friends, the team, through hard work, skill and determination, managed to fend off the taller Titans to claim victory with a 62-61 final score; and

Whereas the girls' perseverance paid off and, with only seconds left in the game, a well-placed shot left the girls celebrating their hard-fought win;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of the Legislative Assembly join me in congratulating Elizabeth Baker for her role in helping to win the NSSAF Division II girls provincial basketball title.

[Page 6764]

RESOLUTION NO. 6569

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crown of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall, winning its third straight Div. III provincial title;

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Cale Saunders for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6570

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crown of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall, winning its third straight Div. III provincial title;

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Tyson Gloade for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6765]

RESOLUTION NO. 6571

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crown of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall, winning its third straight Div. III provincial title;

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating coach Terry Saunders for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6572

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crown of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall, winning its third straight Div. III provincial title;

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Spencer Rice for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6766]

RESOLUTION NO. 6573

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crown of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall, winning its third straight Div. III provincial title;

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Scott Gouchie for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6574

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Ryan Marshall for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6767]

RESOLUTION NO. 6575

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Noah Croft for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6576

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Kris Balcom for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6768]

RESOLUTION NO. 6577

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Kevin MacNeill for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6578

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Keifer Theriault for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6769]

RESOLUTION NO. 6579

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jordan Saunders for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6580

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating coach Jim Verran for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6770]

RESOLUTION NO. 6581

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jeff McNeil for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6582

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jason Ward for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6771]

[Page 6772]

RESOLUTION NO. 6583

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jamieson Ward for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6584

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Greg McOrmond for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6773]

RESOLUTION NO. 6585

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Jeremy Gloade for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6586

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Geoff 'G' Burke for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6774]

RESOLUTION NO. 6587

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Gareth Rafuse for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6588

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Dennis Frost for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

[Page 6775]

RESOLUTION NO. 6589

By: Mr. Stephen McNeil (Leader of the Liberal Party)

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

Whereas the Bridgetown Regional High School senior boys dynasty has added another chapter to its proud history of athletic excellence at Bridgetown Regional High; and

Whereas the BRHS Trojans defeated hometown favourites NDA Acadiens by a score of 4-3, deflating the hopes of a crowd of 1,500 hometown fans; and

Whereas several core members of this team were also part of BRHS's champion soccer team which "threepeated" last Fall winning its third straight Div. III provincial title.

Therefore be it resolved members of the House of Assembly join me in congratulating team member Stephen Charlton for his hard work and dedication to making the BRHS Trojans Hockey Team Provincial Champions.

RESOLUTION NO. 6590

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the late Ronald E. Illsley spent many years researching the history of Berwick; and

Whereas in August of 2008 Mr. Illsley's book, Berwick, was published telling the stories of those who have built the community; and

Whereas Sally Horsnell's historical paintings have been used to illustrate story of Berwick;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of this House recognize the commitment made by the late Ronald Illsley to research and publish the history of his community as well as the contribution made by Sally Horsnell.

[Page 6776]

RESOLUTION NO. 6591

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas August 5, 2008 Lt.-Governor Mayann Francis presented the Exemplary Service Medals for Emergency Medical Services; and

Whereas Earl Russell of Berwick received a medal in recognition of a 20 years commitment and hard work to promote emergency services to the community; and

Whereas Mr. Russell has organized first responder training program, initiated a province-wide bus collision protocol, and chaired the Valley Fire Chief's Committees;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of this House congratulate Earl Russell and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6592

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Gary Reid has retired from military duty, however he continues his heroic acts; and

Whereas on March 10, 2008 Mr. Reid saved the life of Donald Ogilvie; and

Whereas while trimming trees, Mr. Ogilvie had a tree land on him trapping him and limiting his ability to breath, causing several injuries, Mr. Reid came to his rescue and saved his life;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of this House congratulate Mr. Gary Reid for his quick thinking and heroic actions and wish him well in the future.

[Page 6777]

RESOLUTION NO. 6593

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Monday April 27, 2009 marked the first National Healthy Schools Day across Canada; and

Whereas in an effort to improve the quality of indoor air in our schools, 31 groups across Canada are uniting to ensure that new and existing schools are the best they can be; and

Whereas each year, groups will be encouraged to find ways to improve the air quality and ensure our children have the best learning environment possible;

Therefore be it resolved that Members of this House congratulate local organizer Karen Robinson of Canadians for a Safe Learning Environment and wish her every success.

RESOLUTION NO. 6594

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas former Councillor Richard Horsburgh served the community of Berwick with distinction; and

Whereas Mr. Horsburgh served for eight years where he was a member of various committees; and

Whereas Mr. Horsburgh was well-known to survey the town and the work that was being done on behalf of the residents, even bringing his own lawn mower to take care of overgrown grass in the town hall garden;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House recognize the hard work done by former Councillor Horsburgh and wish him success in future endeavours.

[Page 6778]

RESOLUTION NO. 6595

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Liam Smith is extremely close to his neighbour, helping him work in the garden and at his roadside stand; and

Whereas the private gentleman has recently told Liam he has cancer, inspiring Liam to help this kind gentleman who has meant so much to him; and

Whereas Liam's 4-H bunnies were sold to raise $135 to assist people with cancer;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House recognize the generosity of Liam Smith and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6596

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Principal Lily DeYoung has always been well respected by her students and the parents of Thorburn Consolidated School; and

Whereas with 30 years of education experience behind her, Ms. DeYoung has served her students and schools with an enthusiasm which she has passed on to many of her students; and

Whereas Ms. DeYoung is one of 31 principals across Canada to be honoured with the 2009 Learning Partnerships Canada's Outstanding Principals award, as well as her induction into the National Academy of Principals;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Lily DeYoung for her accomplishments and wish her continued success in all her future endeavours.

[Page 6779]

RESOLUTION NO. 6597

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the 6961 metre high Mount Aconcagua is located in Argentina; and

Whereas Mark Whittier of Berwick and Mike L'Oiseau of Wolfville successfully reached the summit of the dormant volcano February 15, 2009; and

Whereas this was an extremely challenging expedition with the climbers suffering from altitude sickness and Mr. L'Oiseau suffering a broken ankle on the descent;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Mark Whittier and Mike L'Oiseau for their accomplishment and wish them every success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6598

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas brothers Nicholas and Blye Oickle are like many young brothers, they play, stick together and look out for one another; and

Whereas when Nicholas was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia, requiring a life-saving bone marrow transplant, Blye beat the odds and was a perfect match for a bone marrow transplant which saved his brother; and

Whereas both brothers have recovered from their ordeal and are both thriving;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate Nicholas and Blye Oickle and wish them every success in future endeavours.

[Page 6780]

RESOLUTION NO. 6599

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas People Worx Society was founded in 1986 to help adults overcome employment obstacles; and

Whereas through a 27-week program, People Worx Society helps develop the soft skills that employers are looking for and helps participants find meaningful employment; and

Whereas on June 26, 2009, People Worx Society will host their first fundraising golf tournament to raise much needed financing;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House recognize the great work that People Worx Society has done to improve the lives of many in the Annapolis Valley and wish them continued success in all future endeavours.

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas in 2007 The Alternative Network (T.A.N.) opened their first roaster cafe in Greenwood, followed quickly by one in Coldbrook and Toronto within the first year; and

Whereas with a philosophy the people can make the difference, T.A.N. has grown significantly and is doing their part to ensure fair trade is brought to the Annapolis Valley; and

Whereas Founder Lay Tong Tan and his team have been very successful in bringing their dreams to a reality;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House congratulate The Alternative Network on their remarkable success and wish them continued success in future endeavours

.

[Page 6781]

RESOLUTION NO. 6601

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas Valley Hospice Foundation has provided residents with the opportunity to maintain their dignity and live their remaining days in comfort and with compassion; and

Whereas the remarkable work that takes place at the Valley Hospice Foundation has been possible because of the generous contributions made by those in the community; and

Whereas on August 7, 2009, the KenWo Golf Club's Play With The Pros paired amateur and local professional golfers to raise funding for the foundation;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House recognize the contributions made by the Valley Hospice Foundation and wish them success in their fundraising tournament.

RESOLUTION NO. 6602

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of her contributions to the Children's Wish Foundation, Eileen Bowlby is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Eileen Bowlby and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 6782]

RESOLUTION NO. 6603

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of her contributions to the Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Brenda Keddy is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Brenda Keddy and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6604

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of her contributions to the Berwick Gala Days, Marg Sawler is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Marg Sawler and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 6783]

RESOLUTION NO. 6605

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of her contributions to the St. Odora Rebekah Lodge #43, Doris Gates is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Doris Gates and wish her continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6606

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of his contributions to the Western Kings Community Health Board, Robert Bellingham is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Robert Bellingham and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 6784]

RESOLUTION NO. 6607

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of her contributions to the 2^nd Berwick Scouting, Robert Chittick is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Robert Chittick and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6608

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of his contributions to the Berwick Curling Club, David Smith is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate David Smith and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

[Page 6785]

RESOLUTION NO. 6609

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of her contributions to the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program, Midnight and Deborah Lonergan-Freake is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Midnight and Deborah Lonergan-Freake and wish their continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6610

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of his contributions to the Berwick Food Bank & Youth, Robert Nichols is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Robert Nichols and wish him continued success in future endeavours

[Page 6786]

RESOLUTION NO. 6611

By: Mr. Leo Glavine (Kings West)

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

Whereas the Town of Berwick will hold their Volunteer Awards tonight April 30, 2009; and

Whereas each year the town recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to their community; and

Whereas in recognition of his contributions to the Berwick Scouts & Youth, Drew Schoonhoven is one of the 2009 Berwick Volunteer Awards recipients;

Therefore be it resolved that members of this House of Assembly congratulate Drew Schoonhoven and wish him continued success in future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6612

By: Ms. Becky Kent (Cole Harbour Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas the Lions Club's mission is to create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs, by providing volunteers services through community involvement and international cooperation; and

Whereas through the motto We Serve, the Eastern Passage Lions Club has played an integral role in the success of the communities of Cow Bay and Eastern Passage; and

Whereas the Eastern Passage Lions Club is celebrating the 37^th Anniversary of their Charter with three original Charter members: Steve Nagle, Ron Nagle and Eugene Deveaux;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Eastern Passage Lions Club on the occasion of the anniversary of their 37^th Charter and wish them every success as they continue to serve the community of Eastern Passage and surrounding area.

[Page 6787]

RESOLUTION NO. 6613

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Morgan Colp, a Grade 8 student at Brookside Junior High School, claimed the Halifax Regional Championship for the National Spelling Bee competition; and

Whereas Morgan now advances to the National Spelling Bee in Ottawa; and

Whereas Morgan received a $5,000 education award for his win;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Morgan Colp on winning the Halifax Regional Championship of the National Spelling Bee competition and extend best wishes in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6614

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas students of Ridgecliff Middle School in Beachville presented the drama, The Outsiders, to appreciative audiences; and

Whereas a great deal of hard work by students, staff and parent volunteers made this dramatic production a success; and

Whereas Ridgecliff Middle School has a proud tradition of accomplishments in the arts and culture;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Ridgecliff Middle School on its production of The Outsiders.

[Page 6788]

RESOLUTION NO. 6615

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Sir John A Macdonald High School students presented the musical Grease this year to sold out audiences; and

Whereas a great deal of hard work by the cast, parent volunteers, staff and community members contributed to the overwhelming success of this production; and

Whereas Sir John A's Grease was directed by Teena Turner with help from musical director Joanne Kirkpatrick and dance instructor Amy Burke;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Sir John A Macdonald High School in its superb production of Grease.

RESOLUTION NO. 6616

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas on Saturday February 28, 2009 a new outdoor rink was officially opened at Abbey Park in Haliburton Hills, Stillwater; and

Whereas Abbey Park will be the site of numerous recreational projects in the future; and

Whereas the Haliburton Hills and Heights Association has shown great leadership;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the residents of Haliburton Hills on the opening of the new outdoor rink at Abbey Park with best wishes in their future endeavours.

[Page 6789]

RESOLUTION NO. 6617

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Acadian Maple Products, located on the Peggy's Cove Road in Upper Tantallon, is expanding to include a sugar shack and maple packing plant; and

Whereas this locally owned business is owned by the Allaway family; and

Whereas Acadian Maple Products is shipping its wonderful products throughout Canada and across the world;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Acadian Maple Products on its business expansion with best wishes to the Allaway family on their future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6618

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas the Bay Chorale presented "Songs of the Stage" on April 26^th at St. Luke's United Church in Upper Tantallon; and

Whereas under the direction of Christine Murray and accompanied by Maureen McGee, "Songs of the Stage" played to an appreciative audience; and

Whereas the St. Margaret's Bay community is extremely proud of its wonderful Bay Chorale;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate the Bay Chorale of St. Margaret's Bay on its presentation of "Songs of the Stage".

[Page 6790]

RESOLUTION NO. 6619

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas legendary Brookside Junior High School guidance counselor, Bonnie Steeves, is retiring this year; and

Whereas Bonnie Steeves has given exemplary service to the teaching profession; and

Whereas throughout her career, Bonnie Steeves provided invaluable leadership to her colleagues, the community and her students;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Bonnie Steeves on her retirement with best wishes in her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6620

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Dawn MacDonald has been named as the Head Coach of the Saint Mary's Huskies Women's Rugby Team; and

Whereas Dawn is a former member of Canada's National Rugby Team and a three-time Atlantic Conference All Star at St. Thomas University; and

Whereas Dawn MacDonald's dedication and commitment to the sport of rugby is exemplary;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Dawn MacDonald on her selection as the Head Coach of the Saint Mary's Huskies Women's Rugby Team.

[Page 6791]

RESOLUTION NO. 6621

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Halifax Regional Police Officer James Perrin has been promoted to the rank of Superintendent; and

Whereas Superintendent Perrin continues to provide exemplary service to our community; and

Whereas James Perrin is a hard-working, dedicated member of the Halifax Regional Police Service;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate James Perrin of the Halifax Regional Police on his promotion to Superintendent with best wishes in his future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6622

By: Mr. William Estabrooks (Timberlea-Prospect)

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

Whereas Jamie Stewart is retiring this year from the teaching profession; and

Whereas each and every day throughout his career, Mr. Stewart gave his very best to his students; and

Whereas Jamie Stewart's contributions to our schools and the community will long be remembered;

Therefore be it resolved that the Nova Scotia Legislature congratulate Jamie Stewart on his retirement with best wishes in his future endeavours.

[Page 6792]

By: Hon. Richard Hurlburt (Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations)

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

Whereas the Costal Financial Credit Union requested all elementary students in schools covered by their six branches to design a Christmas card to be sent to their customers; and

Whereas 9-year-old Samuel Luke Pitman, a Grade 4 student at Arcadia Elementary School, designed the card chosen for use in December 2008, a copy of which I have here; and

Whereas in addition to the gifts he himself received, Samuel's winning design also resulted in his school receiving $1,000 from the Costal Financial Credit Union to be used as the school determines it should be used;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House recognize Samuel Luke Pitman for his creative genius and congratulate him on this marvellous achievement.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Shelburne County Bantam A Flames defended their KFC Classic title, going undefeated in the six-team tournament hosted by the Truro Bearcats on December 29 and December 30, 2008; and

Whereas the Flames opened the tournament with a 6 to1 win and in the second game won with a 15 to 0 score; and

Whereas the Flames won 5 to 2 in game three and in the banner game with a 4 to 1 score, giving the Flames a 24-0-1 season record;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne County Bantam A Flames for defending their KFC Classic title and for going undefeated in the six-team tournament hosed by the Truro Bearcats on December 29 and December 30, 2008.

[Page 6793]

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Anthony Coles of Forest Ridge Academy, Shelburne County, organized a fundraising dance on February 7, 2009, at the Barrington Recreation Centre to raise money for the Bayside Home in Barrington Passage; and

Whereas the dance was a fun-raiser instead of fundraiser where the students enjoyed dancing to their favourite music and had an opportunity to meet new friends; and

Whereas the students were pleased with raising $120; however, they felt giving the money to Bayside Home was the best part of the dance fun-raiser;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize Anthony Coles of Forest Ridge Academy, Shelburne County, for organizing a fundraising dance on February 7, 2009, at the Barrington Recreation Centre to raise money for the Bayside Home in Barrington Passage.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Andrew Holland of Barrington, Shelburne County, has been chosen as a recipient for one of the Ross Drake Memorial Awards at the Shearwater East Dartmouth Minor Hockey Association Tournament in 2009; and

Whereas Andrew has been coaching minor hockey for 12 years, coaching the Shelburne County Flames Bantam squad to four provincial titles, including a three-peat of the Bantam AA Banner as well as the 2009 Bantam A Banner; and

Whereas starting in 1977-78, the SEDMHA Tournament has grown to be one of the largest minor hockey tournaments in Canada, attracting upwards of 280 teams from across North America for the event;

[Page 6794]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Andrew Holland of Barrington, Shelburne County, for being chosen as a recipient of the Ross Drake Memorial Awards at the Shearwater East Dartmouth Minor Hockey Association Tournament in 2009.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Abigal Ross of Port Clyde, Shelburne County, was born weighing in at one pound 12 ounces and 13 centimetres long at 30 weeks old and is being referred to as a little miracle baby; and

Whereas Abigal was delivered by an emergency C-section where she was transported to the Isaak Walton Killam Hospital in Halifax for the next eight weeks of her life; and

Whereas Abigal is presently an active 10-month-old and weighs in at over 14 pounds and is doing great and referred to as her parents' little miracle baby;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize that Abigal Ross of Port Clyde, Shelburne County, was born weighing in at one pound 12 ounces and 13 centimetres long at 30 weeks old, being referred to as a little miracle baby.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Captain Carl Vernon Atkinson of West Head Cape Sable Island, Shelburne County, made heroic acts of sea rescues and personal sacrifice during his 50-year career as a fishing captain; and

Whereas in the Spring of 1953 Captain Atkinson rescued three crew members of the Saratoga who were stranded on Noddy Island from engine failure for two days and nights and in January 1995 he rescued a fishing captain from an overturned vessel, Jeb-Bec-M, hit by 40-foot seas off Clark's Harbour; and

[Page 6795]

Whereas in April 1960 Captain Atkinson risked his life, longliner and crew to make two medical rescues on Mudd Island and Seal Island, and in February 1968 he rescued three men from Saddle Island, Newfoundland, whose vessel was destroyed during a winter storm;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize Captain Carl Vernon Atkinson of West Head, Cape Sable Island, for his heroic acts of sea rescues and personal sacrifice during his 50-year career as a fishing captain.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Danielle Goodwin of Forest Ridge Academy, Shelburne County, organized a fundraising dance on February 7, 2009, at the Barrington Recreation Centre to raise money for the Bayside Home in Barrington Passage; and

Whereas the dance was a fun-raiser instead of fundraiser where the students enjoyed dancing to their favourite music and had an opportunity to meet new friends; and

Whereas the students were pleased with raising $120; however, they felt giving the money to Bayside Home was the best part of the dance fun-raiser;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize Danielle Goodwin of Forest Ridge Academy, Shelburne County, for organizing a fundraising dance on February 7, 2009, at the Barrington Recreation Centre to raise money for the Bayside Home in Barrington Passage.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Shelburne County Flames captured the Hockey Nova Scotia Midget B Provincial Championship in Barrington on March 15, 2009; and

[Page 6796]

Whereas five teams competed in the three-day tourney hosted by the Shelburne County Minor Hockey Association; and

Whereas the Flames won the championship banner, posting a 4 -1 tourney record;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne County Flames for capturing the Hockey Nova Scotia Midget B Provincial Championship in Barrington on March 15, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6631

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Doug Sharpham of Shelburne County was the runner-up winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the adult group on Tuesday, February 10, 2009; and

Whereas the Shelburne County Learning Network hosted the Scrabble Tournament at the McKay Memorial Library; and

Whereas the popular game was chosen to mark Family Literacy Day;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Doug Sharpham for being the runner-up winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the adult group held at the McKay Memorial Library on Tuesday, February 10, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6632

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Geneva Bower of Shelburne County was the runner-up winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the elementary group on Tuesday, February 10, 2009; and

Whereas the Shelburne County Learning Network hosted the Scrabble Tournament at the McKay Memorial Library; and

Whereas the popular game was chosen to mark Family Literacy Day;

[Page 6797]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Geneva Bower for being the runner-up winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the elementary group held at the McKay Memorial Library on Tuesday, February 10, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6633

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Irene Sharpham of Shelburne County was the first place winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the adult group on Tuesday, February 10, 2009; and

Whereas the Shelburne County Learning Network hosted the Scrabble Tournament at the McKay Memorial Library; and

Whereas the popular game was chosen to mark Family Literacy Day;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Irene Sharpham for being the first place winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the adult group held at the McKay Memorial Library on Tuesday, February 10, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6634

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Meghan Martin of Shelburne County was first place winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the elementary group on Tuesday, February 10, 2009; and

Whereas the Shelburne County Learning Network hosted the Scrabble Tournament at the McKay Memorial Library; and

Whereas the popular game was chosen to mark Family Literacy Day;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Meghan Martin for being the fist place winner of the Scrabble Tournament in the elementary group held at the McKay Memorial Library on Tuesday, February 10, 2009.

[Page 6798]

RESOLUTION NO. 6635

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the late Merrill Bruce, a Shelburne County native, has been recognized posthumously for a lifetime contribution to music and entertainment by the African Nova Scotian Music Association; and

Whereas Merrill was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the Nova Scotia Music Association's Annual Awards Banquet in January 2009 for his contribution to entertainment over the years, as a builder and entertainer, step dancer, and standup comic with country music legend Hank Snow; and

Whereas Merrill was born in East Green Harbour in 1893 where he first took the stage in 1920 step dancing, being the best in his time, dancing professionally at the Gayety Theatre in Halifax and winning the Maritime Tap and Step Dancing Championship numerous times over;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the late Merrill Bruce for a lifetime contribution to music and entertainment and for being recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the African Nova Scotia Music Association.

RESOLUTION NO. 6636

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Nolan Symonds, a Grade 9 student at Barrington Municipal High School, took home first place in the Best Overall category at the 2009 Regional Science & Technology Expo at the Nova Scotia Community College Burridge Campus in Yarmouth on April 1, 2009; and

[Page 6799]

Whereas Nolan's Project on Le Homard: Une Question de Vie won him a plaque, banner, $250, and a trip to the Canada Wide Science Fair, to be held in Winnipeg on May 9 - 17, 2009; and

Whereas with over one hundred student projects from around the Tri-County region, organizers deemed this annual event an overwhelming success;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Nolan Symonds, a Grade 9 student at Barrington Municipal High School, for taking home first place in the Best Overall category at the 2009 Regional Science & Technology Expo at the Nova Scotia Community College Burridge Campus in Yarmouth on April 1, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6637

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Shelburne County Atom A Flames were the undefeated winners of the Bridgetown Minor Hockey Tournament on December 5 - 7, 2008; and

Whereas the Flames had a 5-2 win in game one and winning 6-3 in game two; and

Whereas the Flames won 5-1 in game three, they won 4-2 in the Championship game and the Flames went home with the banner with a 6-3 score;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne County Atom A Flames for being the undefeated winners of the Bridgetown Minor Hockey Tournament on December 5 - 7, 2008.

RESOLUTION NO. 6638

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Shelburne Regional High School's Rebel Senior Girls basketball team won their first Regional Banner since 1993 in New Germany on February 21, 2009; and

Whereas the Rebels were cheered on by a strong contingent of Shelburne fans; and

[Page 6800]

Whereas the team was given a hero's welcome, being escorted through Shelburne Town by police and fire department vehicles;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne Regional High School's Rebel Senior Girls basketball team for winning their first Regional Banner since 1993 in New Germany on February 21, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6639

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Shelburne Rebels captured the Shelburne-Yarmouth Senior Girls District Basketball title, winning the District Banner on December 13, 2008; and

Whereas this is the first time the Rebels have won the District Basketball Banner since 1995; and

Whereas five teams competed in the single elimination tournament, hosted by the Rebels;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne Rebels for capturing the Shelburne-Yarmouth Senior Girls District Basketball title, winning the District Banner on December 13, 2008.

RESOLUTION NO. 6640

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne County)

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

Whereas Pi Productions, a student team from Shelburne Regional High School, was selected as one of the ten finalists in Atlantic Canada for their "Reveal Your Disguise" video in the "Racism. Stop It! National Video Competition"; and

Whereas there were over five hundred entries from across Canada; and

Whereas Shelburne Regional High School students will be going to Ottawa to represent Atlantic Canada on March 22 - 24, 2009 for the National Awards Ceremony;

[Page 6801]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Pi Productions, a student team from Shelburne Regional High School, who was selected as one of the ten finalists in Atlantic Canada for their "Reveal Your Disguise" video in the "Racism. Stop It! National Video Competition".

RESOLUTION NO. 6641

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne County)

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

Whereas Stacey deMolitor, a Grade 10 student at the Lockeport Regional High School, has taken an active role in community outreach projects; and

Whereas Stacey is a driving force in the Smiles Program, which is set up for positive recognition of students for doing good deeds and was established in memory of her cousin, Simon deMolitor, a former graduate of Lockeport Regional High School; and

Whereas Stacey has also undertaken and coordinates a program called "Sole Searching," which is a project which collects gently used shoes for distribution to villages in Africa;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend Stacey deMolitor, a Grade 10 student at the Lockeport Regional High School, for taking an active role in community outreach projects.

RESOLUTION NO. 6642

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne County)

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

Whereas Thomas Murray of Forest Ridge Academy, Shelburne County, organized a fundraising dance on February 7, 2009 at the Barrington Recreation Centre to raise money for the Bayside Home in Barrington Passage; and

Whereas the dance was a fun-raiser instead of fundraiser, where the students enjoyed dancing to their favourite music and had an opportunity to meet new friends; and

[Page 6802]

Whereas the students were pleased with raising $120; however, they felt giving the money to Bayside Home was the best part of the dance fun-raiser;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly recognize Thomas Murray of Forest Ridge Academy, Shelburne County, for organizing a fundraising dance on February 7, 2009 at the Barrington Recreation Centre to raise money for the Bayside Home in Barrington Passage.

RESOLUTION NO. 6643

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Barrington Municipal High School staff and students came together to fundraise and offer support, through various events held at the school, for the late Ms. Shannon Knowles of Barrington throughout her 14-month battle with cancer; and

Whereas Barrington Municipal High School staff and students organized a birthday bash, basketball game, sock hop, video dance, silent auction, Parent Support Group turkey dinner, and the Sean Kenny bike ride, raising more than $3,700 to give assistance to Shannon; and

Whereas on March 28, 2009 Barrington Municipal School and the Tri County Regional School Board organized a trip to the Halifax Metro Centre to pay tribute to Shannon by an invitation from the Halifax Rainmen, Shannon's favorite basketball team;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly commend the Tri County Regional School Board and the Barrington Municipal High School staff and students for coming together to fundraise and offer support for the late Ms. Shannon Knowles of Barrington throughout her 14-month battle with cancer.

RESOLUTION NO. 6644

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Wendy Stoddard of Shelburne County participated in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal; and

[Page 6803]

Whereas Wendy is a team player for the Shelburne County Special Olympians; and

Whereas the Olympians team defeated Annapolis with a score of 5 to 3 in the final winning game;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Wendy Stoddard for participating in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 6645

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Tobi Krafve of Shelburne County participated in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal; and

Whereas Tobi is a team player for the Shelburne County Special Olympians; and

Whereas the Olympians team defeated Annapolis with a score of 5 to 3 in the final winning game;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Tobi Krafve for participating in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 6646

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Tabitha Williams of Shelburne County participated in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal; and

Whereas Tabitha is a team player for the Shelburne County Special Olympians; and

Whereas the Olympians team defeated Annapolis with a score of 5 to 3 in the final winning game;

[Page 6804]

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Tabitha Williams for participating in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 6647

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Evan Crowell of Shelburne County participated in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 22-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal; and

Whereas Evan is a team player for the Shelburne County Special Olympians; and

Whereas the Olympians team defeated Annapolis with a score of 5 to 3 in the final winning game;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Evan Crowell for participating in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal.

RESOLUTION NO. 6648

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas the Shelburne County Early Childhood Development Association celebrates 20 years of serving families in Shelburne County during Early Intervention Awareness Month in February, 2009; and

Whereas the program works with children with special needs and their families in a home-based environment, free of charge; and

[Page 6805]

Whereas the program has been involved with over 200 children and their families with many day care and primary transitions, appointments attended, milestones celebrated, and relationships formed;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate the Shelburne County Early Childhood Development Association for celebrating 20 years of serving families in Shelburne County during Early Intervention Awareness Month in February, 2009.

RESOLUTION NO. 6649

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas Andrew Hicks of Shelburne County participated in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal; and

Whereas Andrew is a team player for the Shelburne County Special Olympians; and

Whereas the Olympians team defeated Annapolis with a score of 5 to 3 in the final winning game;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Andrew Hicks for participating in the Provincial Winter Curling Games on February 20-22, 2009, winning a Division C Gold Medal.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Brett Penney and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

[Page 6806]

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Brett Penney and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Brett Sears and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Brett Sears and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Colin Belliveau and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

[Page 6807]

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Colin Belliveau and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Ethan Dixon and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Ethan Dixon and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Justin Newell and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

[Page 6808]

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Justin Newell and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Jordan Chetwynd and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Jordan Chetwynd and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Justin Nickerson and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

[Page 6809]

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Justin Nickerson and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Mason Landry and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Mason Landry and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Nicholas Dixon and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

[Page 6810]

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Nicholas Dixon and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Roman Hines and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Roman Hines and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Skyler Symonds and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

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Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Skyler Symonds and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

By: Mr. Sterling Belliveau (Shelburne)

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

Whereas teammate Zachary Munroe and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames were the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008; and

Whereas five teams competed in the two-day tournament hosted at the Shelburne Arena; and

Whereas in the banner contest the #2 Flames won with a 5 to 3 score for the title;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate teammate Zachary Munroe and the Shelburne #2 Peewee B Flames for being the banner winners of the Shelburne Christmas Tournament on December 27, 2008.

RESOLUTION NO. 6662

By: Hon. Rodney MacDonald (Premier)

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

Whereas as we begin another sitting of deliberations over legislation, it is a good opportunity to recognize the return of Gordon Johnson to the Legislative Counsel Office; and

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Whereas just a few months ago, Gordon underwent serious cardiac surgery, but appears to have made a tremendous recovery and is again working alongside his colleagues with the mammoth task of drafting legislation; and

Whereas the important work of our Legislative Counsel Office continued in his absence thanks to the hard work of all staff - most especially Gordon Hebb and Neil Ferguson - who are all grateful for the return of their friend and colleague;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House welcome back this hard-working individual and wish Gordon all the best as he continues to recuperate since his return to the job.

RESOLUTION NO. 6663

By: Mr. Keith Colwell (Preston)

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

Whereas the Lake Echo Seniors' Club is celebrating their 20^th Anniversary this year; and

Whereas as part of the celebrations, the Lake Echo Seniors' Club is hosting an open house on Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lake Echo Community Centre Seniors' Room serving refreshments and providing live entertainment; and

Whereas the Lake Echo Seniors' Club has been a very valuable part of this community serving the needs of our seniors for the past 20 years;

Therefore be it resolved that all members of this House congratulate the Lake Echo Seniors' Club on this very special milestone and wish them many more years of helpful service to our seniors.

RESOLUTION NO. 6664

By: Ms. Becky Kent (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

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Whereas every year Lions Clubs across Canada hold speakout contests for youth of their communities to foster an appreciation for, and experience in public speaking; and

Whereas Megan Peron of Eastern Passage participated in the Eastern Passage Lions Club Speakout and spoke eloquently about issues that affect her; and

Whereas Megan spoke about whether or not high school students should have part-time jobs and the pros and cons of working while attending high school;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Megan Perron for her participation and success in the Eastern Passage Lions Club Speakout and wish her every success in all her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6665

By: Ms. Becky Kent (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

Whereas Rhonda Gibson is a resident of Eastern Passage who enjoys participating in many activities which include competitive sports in the Special Olympics; and

Whereas Rhonda especially enjoys her participation in figure skating as a Special Olympian for Nova Scotia; and

Whereas Rhonda won the gold medal for figure skating in the Nova Scotia Special Olympics on February 21, 2009;

Therefore be it resolved that this House of Assembly congratulate Rhonda Gibson on her successes as a Nova Scotia Special Olympian and congratulate Rhonda on her gold medal win, extending best wishes in all her future endeavours.

RESOLUTION NO. 6666

By: Ms. Becky Kent (Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage)

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

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Whereas the senior residents of D.A. MacDonald Manor of Eastern Passage enjoy gardening, but find it too difficult to tend to a ground level garden at their home; and

Whereas the