Political speak -
The Spring Session of the Nova Scotia Legislature just wrapped-up and I'm looking forward to spending less time at Province House, and more time out in the community talking to people like you.
Spring has arrived early this year, which signals an early start to what political watchers often jokingly refer to as the BBQ circuit. Over the coming weeks I'm looking forward to attending a variety of fairs, fundraisers and festivals. These activities showcase the best Hammonds Plains-Upper Sackville has to offer (including food) and give me a chance to find out first-hand what issues are high on residents' minds. Armed with this knowledge, I can ensure that the needs of constituents are being heard at the decision making table.
When I'm out talking to people, seniors issues are one of the more common things that come up. I think this stems from the fact that everyone wants to know that their aging loved ones are going to be well looked after - if a need arises. Currently a number of projects in our community will provide greater access to long-term care. These include the Millwood Seniors Complex , the Northwood Continuing Care Centre opening soon on the Hammonds Plains Road and the White Hills Long-term Care Centre. Our NDP government is committed to making life better for seniors and their families, which is why in February we fulfilled our key election commitment to eliminate security deposits at nursing homes. In the current budget we removed another major burden, and now seniors receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement no longer have to pay provincial income tax.
In recent weeks I've also heard a lot of questions about roads and highways, especially about the construction Margeson Drive - the new connector road between Sackville Road and Highway 101. Just to give you a quick update, currently the project's design is being finalized and the construction estimate is being prepared for tendering purposes. Tendering is not yet scheduled but will happen as soon as possible. Improving roads and highways in every region of the province is a priority of our NDP government. That's why the current budget includes over $300 million dollars for infrastructure renewal - the second largest such investment in our provinces history.
Our NDP government's first true budget was a significant moment from the spring session of the legislature, but personally for me, the highlight was the apology and free pardon granted to Viola Desmond. Mrs. Desmond was an African Canadian who was wrongfully jailed for sitting in the white person's section of a New Glasgow movie theatre in 1946. It was a very sad moment in our history, but due to the courageousness and bravery Mrs. Desmond displayed in the face intolerance she has since become a hero for many people in Nova Scotia and abroad. Although nothing can fully right the wrong committed to Viola Desmond, this act will ensure that her legacy will never be forgotten.
That's it for me this month, as I said at the beginning it's important I know what is on your mind, so if you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact me at 864-5310 or mat.mla@ns.sympatico.ca.
