Province Législature Session Type de discours Date du discours Locuteur Fonction du locuteur Parti politique Nouvelle-Écosse 55e 2e Discours du Trône 22 Février 1990 Lloyd R. Crouse Lieutenant-gouverneur PC Nova Scotia: Speech from the Throne, Second Session of the 55th General Assembly, February 22th, 1990 I welcome you in Our Sovereign's Name to this Opening of the Second Session of the Fifty- fifth General Assembly of the Province of Nova Scotia. In the last year, my Government was saddened by the death of two former Members of this House: Dr. Eric W. Balcom; and, Dr. Thomas J. McKeough. Nova Scotians were saddened also by the death last year of Dr. Helen Creighton, Canada's foremost folklorist. My Government takes note of the retirement of Major Harold Long as Sergeant-at-Arms of this House and the appointment of his distinguished successor Mr. Delmore (Buddy) Daye. After 31 years of loyal and distinguished service to Nova Scotia, Major Long was the longest serving Sergeant-at-Arms in the Commonwealth. The United Nations has declared 1990 "International Literacy Year" and to mark this important occasion, my Government, through the Department of Advanced Education and Job Training, is embarking upon a number of community based activities to promote the need for literacy and academic upgrading. My Government extends congratulations to the Towns of Digby and Yarmouth who are celebrating the centennial of their incorporation in 1990. Introduction Meeting the challenges of today and being prepared for the 21st Century is Nova Scotians' first priority. My Government is dedicated to preparing our people to adapt and take advantage of the new emerging global opportunities. My Government continues to be committed to the strategic goal of leading Nova Scotia on a course that will best prepare our people to take advantage of the new job opportunities of the future by building a competitive and diversified economy in a rapidly changing world - where success can be achieved through the proper preparation and development of our people. Together we must plan to meet the challenge of today and tomorrow. My Government is dedicated to the guiding principle of promoting a compassionate and caring society in which Nova Scotians are assured of the highest standards of education, health, personal safety, the protection of their families and fundamental freedoms. It is within this general strategy that my Government presents to the people of Nova Scotia this 1990 Speech from the Throne. The 1990’s global opportunities for Nova scotians We enter the 1990's stronger than we entered the 1980's. The new realities that are occurring as a result of world market and commodity changes will provide new growth opportunities and new jobs for Nova Scotians. Changes in worldwide communications are occurring everywhere. Nova Scotians see, hear and read about these new realities around the world on a daily basis. Clearly, the world is growing smaller due to modern worldwide communications. New markets and new opportunities emerge almost daily. In this highly competitive and rapidly changing environment where the only constant is change, economic success will belong to those of us who anticipate, are flexible, and who adapt to new consumer markets. That is why, my Government is dedicated to the strategic economic goal of working with our people to ensure an environment where the people of Nova Scotia can build a diversified, competitive, growing economy in a rapidly changing world. Building our economy and protecting our environment Planning with People: My Government is dedicated to working with Nova Scotians to maintain the proper climate for economic success. In achieving economic success with our people, my Government is committed to the guiding principle of actively involving Nova Scotians in the process of identifying and developing new policies and programs. My Government understands and is committed to the direct involvement of the people and their communities in the development and implementation of new economic strategies. Nova Scotians recognize and understand the new ecological reality where all countries are dependent on one another for their environmental health. It is a fundamental truth that environmental damage is endangering the planetary habitat. New economic growth and success, therefore, must be based on this new ecological reality a commitment to the concept of sustainable economic development. In the emerging information based society, knowledge is the key to opportunity. This is so not only with the development of new knowledge intensive industries, but also in our traditional resource, commodity and manufacturing industries as they adapt to and implement changes required for the new competitive success in the 1990's. Nova Scotians understand that in a knowledge based economy, education and training, research and development, science and technology are the foundation for the creation of new jobs. These job creation needs mean for Nova Scotians, continued reform and excellence in our education and training system, in our public schools, our community colleges and universities. My Government understands that success in meeting the challenges of the knowledge based economy demands partnerships with people. Working together, governments must listen to and consult with the people. That has been my Government's planning approach to public policy development in the 1980's. It has worked. My Government is dedicated to continuing that planning strategy in the 1990's. Building our Economy Together: My Government is currently engaged in a major update of our provincial economic development strategy for the 1990's. In 1984, my Government together with Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning, produced the economic development White Paper "Building Competitiveness. That strategy, the first of its kind in Canada, has been the foundation of government's economic policy for the past five years. It has served all successfully, yet in changing times, we cannot afford to stand still but must continuously strive to be current and anticipate change to make it work for us. The major components of the new strategy currently being developed will be: - technology strategy; - trade strategy, and - human resource development strategy. With the completion of this new economic development strategy, in the summer of 1990, my Government, in partnership with Voluntary Planning, will conduct a province-wide consultation process-taking the proposed new strategy and its recommendations to the people. All interested Nova Scotians will have an opportunity to provide their feedback. Only after the people have participated will my Government adopt and implement this new program. My Government is dedicated to pursuing this public consultation process as the proper way to build a common vision and plan for our economic future - we must all be partners in its process and implementation. The fishing industry The most serious issue facing Nova Scotia today is the major problem in the ground fisheries. This problem causes all Nova Scotians grave concern. The Nova Scotia fishing industry employs 22,000 Nova Scotians in more than two hundred communities across the Province. In this $800 million per year industry, 450,000 tons of fish are landed annually. It is essential that this industry remains a vital contributor to the economic health of our Province and continue to employ thousands of Nova Scotians. The groundfish sector of our fishery is experiencing particular difficulties given decreased quotas, new market competition, and inflexible management strategies. The fishery resource is under federal jurisdiction. Consequently, the ability of the Province to respond to the downturn is limited because the resource management and quota allocations are the direct responsibility of the Federal Government. My Government will continue to urge that the Federal Government undertake the following action plan: stop the unacceptable practice of dumping and high grading; implement a controlled seal cull; use its influence on other countries to stop overfishing: - allow Nova Scotia fishermen to catch unutilized allocations of redfish in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence; - implement a majority of the recommendations of the Scotia-Fundy Groundfish Task Force report at an early date - many of the recommendations contained in the report such as the use of square mesh nets and the protection of juvenile fish were recommended in the Province's submission to the Task Force; - use its agencies such as the Canadian International Development Agency to purchase more underutilized fish species for food programs; - and eliminate the requirement regarding cubic measurements for replacement fishing vessels and substitute a practical and reasonable policy. My Government is pleased that the Government of Canada has reached an agreement with the Soviet Union with regard to processing their bycatch in Nova Scotia. My Government urges the Government of Canada to pursue similar bilateral agreements with other fishing nations. The Province's responsibility in the fishing industry begins after the fish are brought ashore. In 1989, approximately 57 million pounds of unprocessed groundfish left Nova Scotia. This must cease. Hundreds of jobs will be created by processing these fish in Nova Scotia; My Government will take steps to limit the export of unprocessed selected groundfish from Nova Scotia in order to preserve and increase jobs in our fishing industry; My Government will develop a specific industry incentive fund to attract new industry to those areas significantly affected by the decline in the groundfish industry. This assistance will complement the financial commitment made by the Government of Canada for the areas affected by the downturn in the groundfishery; My Government will accelerate research into the processing and marketing of underutilized fish species; My Government will maintain the moratorium on the issuance of new processing plant and fish buyer licenses in order to encourage more stability in the industry. Security – Stabilization of our communities My Government is concerned with the serious socio-economic effect on people and communities caused by job losses in the groundfishery. My Government's commitment is to further diversify the economic base of those areas of our Province dependent upon such single industries. Small communities are the backbone of our unique Nova Scotian way of life. My Government believes this traditional lifestyle has to be maintained for future generations of Nova Scotians, and that the economies of these communities must be diversified to maintain that heritage. My Government will be developing a strategy aimed at planning for the economic diversification of these areas. The priorities of this strategy are: - facilitating and coordinating federal, provincial and regional economic development programs: and - utilization of our community college system to retrain our workforce to meet the new employment opportunities flowing from a planned diversification strategy at the local level. Job opportunities in new or expanded industries must be developed to ensure the security and growth of these communities. Small business - Job creation Recognizing 100,000 Nova Scotians are employed in small business, my Government is taking steps to enhance this vital aspect of economic diversification of our economy in the 1990's. My Government is dedicated to the creation of new job opportunities through small business development in Nova Scotia. My Government has increased the financial lending capacity of the Small Business Development Corporation from $250,000 to $3 million. This initiative is designed to help small and medium sized businesses and industries. Building upon the strength and accessibility of our Regional Small Business Service Centres, my Government will offer expanded advisory services through the Executive Advisory Program. This initiative will enable government to access the talents of retired executives, volunteers and professionals throughout the Province so that they may lend their expertise to small business owners and operators. This will enhance the business and managerial skills of people who require this kind of support at critical times. Small business people, like all other participants in our economy, must be aware of and understand the current and future trends in the global economy if they are going to succeed. Through the Department of Small Business Development, my Government is tracking and analyzing new trends and programs relevant to small business and is compiling a computer database so this information can be shared with entrepreneurs throughout the Province. My Government recognizes the contribution of home based businesses to the Nova Scotian economy. Many of our middle-sized and larger businesses can trace their beginnings to a home base. My Government, through the Department of Small Business Development, will conduct a comprehensive study of the impact of these home based businesses on the Nova Scotian economy and of their special needs, in order to encourage further small business growth. In the summer of 1990, my Government in cooperation with Université Sainte-Anne, will present a unique business conference for and about the Acadian business community. This Church Point conference will showcase Acadian business success stories and will feature national and international speakers. My Government recognizes the tremendous impact women entrepreneurs are having on our economy. Women are starting businesses at four to five times the rate of men. My Government wants to assist these enterprising women by allocating more dollars to programs that strengthen women's ability to participate fully in the creation and management of new business. My Government, through the Women Entrepreneur's Program, the Women's Business Development Program, and through its sponsorship of Women in Business conferences, will continue its support to the fastest growing sector within business. Over the past two years, my Government has hosted successful conferences for women entrepreneurs in Halifax. This year, a series of conferences will be organized throughout Nova Scotia to allow easier access for women from all regions interested in becoming a business owner. Transportation – New directions for the 1990’s Nova Scotians understand that as we move into the global economy, one of our most important competitive assets and responsibilities has to be our transportation infrastructure. In ensuring appropriate conditions favourable to competitive success, government has a major role to play in infrastructure maintenance and development. My Government, through the Minister of Transportation and Communications, has completed a province-wide public consultation process on the recommendations resulting from Travel 2000. Travel 2000 is a comprehensive new transportation strategy covering highways, rail, ports, air and intermodal transportation. Nova Scotia is the first province ever to undertake such a provincial study. Nova Scotians have played a very significant role in this consultation process. Highway 2000 Program: An improved and expanded highway system means more efficient transport of goods and people as well as jobs for Nova Scotians. Highway expansion means safer travel for Nova Scotians. As part of the transportation strategy and recognizing the role highway transportation must play in our future, my Government will develop a major program of upgrading our highways including the twinning of our 100-Series Highways by the year 2000. This initiative will be called the Highway 2000 Program. My Government will negotiate with the Federal Government to be a major partner in this project. To finance Nova Scotia's portion, my Government will establish a Highway 2000 Fund. Rail/Ports: My Government has called upon Canadian National to establish an intermodal transportation terminal in Halifax in 1990/91, and in other locations at a later date. Intermodal transportation will increase the efficiency and safety of our highway infrastructure. My Government believes that it is essential for the viability of Halifax as the major container port in Eastern Canada that our rail lines and bridges be upgraded in order to allow double stacking of containers. My Government will be bringing this matter forcefully to the attention of the Government of Canada and Canadian National. My Government will further assess the potential of other major ports in the Province to determine how they might be utilized more effectively in the export of Nova Scotia products to Canadian and world markets. Air Transportation: My Government believes that an improved infrastructure at the Halifax International Airport is essential if we are to maintain and enhance our position as the strategic transportation centre for Atlantic Canada. This airport upgrading is necessary to preserve and expand worldwide linkages that make it possible for Nova Scotians to maintain and increase job opportunities. New opportunities in science and technology Nova Scotians are committed to making science and technology work to build a better future. We have in Nova Scotia the second largest per capita component of scientists and engineers in Canada. We are in third place among the provinces in terms of our commitment to research and development expenditures in science and technology. One of the new realities of the 1990's is the trend towards high technology industries which are essential if our economy is to compete, win and grow in the 1990's. My Government maintains its commitment to the success of our traditional resource industries and to working with those industries to accelerate the pace at which they are adapting to new and innovative technologies. In 1989, Nova Scotia hosted the first National Forum on Science and Technology in Canada. This conference involved science and technology advisory councils from all provinces as well as important leaders in government, and science and technology, from Canada, the United States, Japan and other countries. This session held in Halifax in June, produced the Halifax Declaration - A Call to Action, which is a recommended course of action for provincial and federal governments to follow and to foster the growth of science and technology. The Halifax Declaration has been adopted by the Premiers of all the provinces. My Government will be working closely with Dr. Robert Fournier and the Council on Applied Science and Technology, with other provinces and the Federal Government over the next few years in the implementation of the Halifax Declaration. My Government will continue to assist companies in adopting and applying new technology through the existing federal/provincial technology agreement. Among the technology activities based on our strengths and funded through this agreement are: - the establishment of the Nova Scotia Technology Network - a communications network involving universities, colleges, research institutions and industry; - the establishment of a centre for Marine Vessel Design and Research at the Technical University of Nova Scotia; - the establishment of an Atlantic Centre for Remote Sensing of the Oceans; - funding of Computer Aided Design milling at the University College of Cape Breton to enhance the scope of CAD/CAM services to Cape Breton industry; - development of a new library automation system, joint ventured with industry, at Acadia University; - establishment of a Centre for Computer Graphics and Animation at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. A further initiative undertaken with provincial and federal support included the establishment of environmental test facilities at the Nova Scotia Research Foundation. The facilities will be used for product development testing for industry clients. In September 1989, my Government entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government to acquire radar satellite data from Radarsat. The Radarsat satellite is one of the major components of the Canada Space Program. The satellite is scheduled for launch in 1994. Information obtained from Radarsat will provide Nova Scotia's public and private sector necessary information to help: - effectively manage forest and agricultural land; - prospect for mineral deposits, and - provide timely ocean and ice surveillance. Nova Scotia's involvement in Radarsat applications and development will assist in the economic diversification of the Nova Scotian economy. Trade Nova Scotia is a trading province. Our foreign exports are valued at approximately 2.2 billion dollars annually. More than 75 per cent of these exports are destined to the United States, especially to New England and the mid-Atlantic states. The Trade Development Authority of Nova Scotia, established in 1985, has put forth a series of strategies in the areas of marketing, trade education, trade infrastructure and technology. My Government is favourably considering the implementation of these initiatives during the fiscal period 1990/91. My Government is committed to increasing trade promotion to further develop and increase our trading export markets. A major step in this direction will be the establishment of a Trade and Technology Promotions Office in Boston on August 1, 1990. My Government will work to assist Nova Scotia's service industry in increasing its exports. Targeted sectors include computer software, architectural, engineering, and environmental and management consultant services. New and emerging competitive world markets are those of the twelve nation European community, the Eastern Bloc countries as well as the Pacific Rim including Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Protecting our environment My Government is committed to the principle of sustainable economic development, and in conjunction with the Roundtable on the Environment and the Economy and Voluntary Planning, will develop a conservation strategy for implementation in Nova Scotia. This strategy will be based on extensive consultation with special interest groups, the business community, resource industries, and Nova Scotians from all walks of life, to ensure that the natural resources of our Province are conserved for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations of Nova Scotians. Nova Scotia Resource Recovery Fund: The 1989 Recycling Act includes provisions for a Nova Scotia Resource Recovery Fund. My Government, with voluntary private sector dollars, will establish such a fund in 1990. This fund will be used to encourage Nova Scotia to become a better resource conservation society. This program will assist municipal governments in diverting waste from landfills, reducing operating costs and extending the life of landfill sites. An early focus of this fund will be the establishment of "blue box" and other multimaterial recycling programs throughout Nova Scotia. Environmental Trust Fund My Government proposes to establish an Environmental Trust Fund which will finance programs for environmental research development and enhancement including environmental protection and conservation. This fund will enable the Province to receive money and property from individuals, and the private sector that can be dedicated to environmental improvement and associated scientific study. My Government, in consultation with municipal governments, will implement a mandatory training program for municipal water and pollution control plant operators in Nova Scotia. This will be reinforced by a water and waste water certification program for operators of such facilities. My Government will develop and implement a new policy for the purchase of environmentally friendly products by government. The goal of this initiative is to maximize the purchase of environmentally friendly goods and services by government; and to encourage government departments and agencies to recycle and reuse materials. A paper recycling pilot project involving the Departments of the Environment and Government Services is already underway. My Government will appoint a permanent advisory council to assist the Minister of the Environment in establishing priorities and programs for the Nova Scotia Youth Conservation Corps. My Government will establish a Ministers Task Force on Clean Air to examine air quality discharges, emission standards and related environmental problems in the industrial, government and private sectors. The work of the task force will commence this spring and its recommendations will, after future consultation with interested Nova Scotians, result in new clean air legislative initiatives. The Task Force on Clean Water will commence province-wide public consultation initiatives in the spring of 1990. This task force will draft a comprehensive sustainable provincial water resource management policy. The task force will present an interim report to government in the fall of 1990 with a final report to come in 1991. This initiative will Provide a Nova Scotia clean water strategy for the 1990's and beyond. Municipal Solid Waste Capital Assistance Program: My Government will offer a new program for capital assistance in the development of municipal solid waste incinerators. Under this new program, where two or more municipalities develop a single regional incinerator system, a grant of up to 33 per cent will be offered. This program is designed to help municipal governments implement modern environmentally attractive garbage disposal procedures. The movement to incinerator processes would necessitate increased recycling activities, because to a large degree, recyclable materials are not burnable. Halifax Harbour Clean Up: Through the Halifax Harbour Clean-Up, my Government intends to support the development of exportable environmental expertise. The environmental protection industry is one of the most rapidly growing components of the Nova Scotian economy. Growth in this industry will be greatly accelerated through the expertise that will be gained from the harbour clean-up and the sewer and water initiatives. It is estimated that the North American harbour clean-up potential is worth approximately 22 billion. My Government wants to ensure that Nova Scotians play a major part in that industrial potential in Canada and abroad. Private Sector Engineering Consortium: My Government will support the establishment of a Nova Scotia Private Sector Engineering Consortium that will have the capability to provide engineering consulting on major projects both within Nova Scotia and in other jurisdictions. This will involve Nova Scotia's private sector engineering consulting companies. The Government of Nova Scotia and all Crown Corporations will use substantial Nova Scotia engineering projects such as the Halifax Harbour Clean-Up and the Highway Infrastructure Program, Highway 2000, as opportunities to begin this consortium. Tourism and culture – Strengthening our distinctiveness Tourism is Nova Scotia's leading growth industry and will be a major generator of new jobs in the 1990's. Tourism is important to all of our communities. It provides new job opportunities in all regions of our province. In the fall of 1989, the Minister of Tourism and Culture conducted an extensive public consultation program in 18 communities throughout the province listening to the views and obtaining input of Nova Scotians on tourism and culture. My Government will be implementing a number of new initiatives as a result of these consultations. The Nova Scotia Craft and Design Centre is being established in the Johnston Building in downtown Halifax. My Government will establish the Nova Scotia Film Development Agency. The Department of Tourism and Culture will continue to support regional theatres. These centres for the performing arts provide experience and employment for artists as well as entertainment for tourists and residents in our smaller communities. My Government will establish an annual tourism attraction in tribute to the late Dr. Helen Creighton, "The Sounds of Nova Scotia". This unique province-wide program will showcase Nova Scotian music, performing arts, visual arts and crafts, multicultural activities and community festivals. My Government is negotiating a new federal-provincial Tourism Agreement with the federal government. Through this agreement, my Government will implement a number of new initiatives to enhance the growth of the tourism industry. New strategies to be introduced will be: - new training measures to afford private operators easier access to on-site training for key staff members: and - new training programs for front-line staff in Provincial Tourism Information Centres and for tourism information facilities owned and operated by local tourist associations. Agriculture – Building on strength Nova Scotia's agriculture industry is a vibrant and successful contributor to our Province's economic development. My Government is committed to ensuring that our agricultural industry continues to be innovative, contemporary and successful. Beef Industry Development Agency: In 1990, my Government will establish a Nova Scotia Beef Industry Development Agency. This agency will work with the people involved in our beef industry with the goal of doubling the value of Nova Scotia's beef industry by 1995. The agency will promote Nova Scotia beef throughout the province and will coordinate all beef value added initiatives in Nova Scotia. The Nova Scotia Beef Industry Development Agency will work to ensure the local sale of Nova Scotia beef in the grocery outlets throughout the province. This is an important step in diversifying our agricultural sector and at the same time making more quality Nova Scotia beef available to the consumer. My Government, in cooperation with beef producer organizations, will develop on-farm programs to demonstrate new ideas and new technologies of beef production. Forestry Our forestry industry employs 30,000 Nova Scotians. Since we last met, my Government has successfully completed a new Forestry Agreement with the Government of Canada. The new Cooperation Agreement for Forestry Development provides $45 million for continued forest management initiatives with special emphasis on: - woodlot management; - forest management ventures; - forest research and development; - forest product development and marketing; and - student internship employment. My Government will enter into a five year overseas market development agreement to provide for market and technical promotional strategies of Nova Scotia lumber in Europe. This program will be developed and implemented in partnership with the Maritime Lumber Bureau and the Government of Canada. My Government will dramatically increase reforestation programs in Nova Scotia in the 1990's. As we entered the 1980's, our province planted 3 million trees annually. At present, our reforestation efforts involve planting in the range of 26 million to 30 million seedlings on an annual basis. My Government's commitment is to double that figure by the year 2000 ensuring continuation of a healthy mixed forest of merchantable wood fibre for Nova Scotia. This will create significant employment opportunities in the forestry sector. My Government will work through the new Extension Division of the Department of Lands and Forests, to substantially improve forest management practices throughout the province. Similarly, through the Extension Division, my Government will ensure that students in Nova Scotia's public schools are provided with an understanding of our forest industry and its contribution to Nova Scotia's economy. In this regard, in 1990 5,000 Nova Scotian students will visit the Musquodoboit Valley Forest Nursery and Education Complex to learn about our forestry environment, reforestation and management practices. My Government is continuing to ensure the efficient, effective and environmentally sound management of our forests and woodlands for the ultimate benefit of all Nova Scotians. My Government has introduced and published the new Forest Wildlife Guidelines and Standards for Nova Scotia. These guidelines and standards, developed through extensive consultation with Nova Scotians, constitute up-to-date recommendations regarding forestry techniques that will provide adequate wildlife habitat. My Government was pleased to co-host, earlier this month, a Canadian Council of Forest Ministers National Forum on the Sustainable Development of Forests. At the forum, Canada's forest ministers committed themselves and their provinces to the joint goals of environmental protection and sustainable development in forestry. Mining Nova Scotia's mineral development industry is another major contributor to our economy valued at approximately $500 million annually. More than 6,000 Nova Scotians are employed in our mining industry. My Government will introduce a new Mineral Resources Act representing the first major revision of this Act in more than a decade. Changes in the Act will address technological advances, and address environmental concerns as well as streamline administrative procedures, to encourage new exploration, new jobs and to add value to our mining industry. My Government recognizes the importance of protecting and enhancing our environment and the contribution that can be made to environmental protection through energy policy. In this regard, my Government continues as an active partner in the Canadian Energy Ministers Task Force on Energy and the Environment. My Government continues to carry out research and development into clean coal technologies. It is important that we use our coal resource in an environmentally responsible manner to generate electricity, and to sustain employment in the industry. My Government will host the Northeast International Committee on Energy Annual Energy Roundtable on April 24-26, 1990. The theme of this year's conference is "Northeast Electricity Issues". Subjects to be addressed include future consumption and generation technologies, electricity regulation and trade, alternatives to utility capacity and environmental mitigation. My Government will develop and adopt an updated Nova Scotia energy strategy for the 1990's. This new energy strategy will embrace elements of demand side management, conservation and alternate forms of energy. Job training for our people Nova Scotian's work force skills are critical in the global economy. Nova Scotia's most important resources - our most competitive assets - are the skills and knowledge of our people. Nothing is more important in the new global economy than the education and training of our people to perform the jobs that the new economy requires. In transnational economies, capital moves freely across international boundaries. State of the art factories can be built anywhere. The newest technologies can flow from computers in one country to satellites in space and then can be beamed back down to computers in another country. The process can be operated by knowledgeable workers anywhere. So countries and provinces, whose workers are educated and trained appropriately, are the countries and provinces that will succeed in the 1990's. A properly educated and trained workforce will be a major factor in attracting new business investment. It is important that government continue to invest in an education and training system that will produce a skilled workforce. As we increase our campaign for Nova Scotian competitiveness, we will concentrate on building our education and training system. This means we must have an effective, efficient, contemporary education system that will continue to provide full educational opportunities for all Nova Scotians. Through our community college system we will continue to provide training for new and more complex jobs. In an age where lifelong learning is the norm, we will provide retraining programs so that workers can constantly keep up with the demands of the technologically advanced workplace. Throughout 16 campuses across the Province, the Nova Scotia Community College is providing training and education programs on technological, trade and applied arts fields. The community college skills training programs will meet the future needs of Nova Scotians. In the current academic year, 17 new training programs have been put in place in the community college system. These programs have been developed in response to the anticipated market needs in the 1990's. Further new programs will be added this year as part of our ongoing program of improvement and expansion of our community colleges. My Government is pleased to announce the commencement of the College de l'Acadie, the Francophone component of the Nova Scotia community college which will come on stream this year. Learning centres will be established to provide training programs in French through electronic and computer technologies. Literacy - A Major Canadian Workplace Problem My Government is committed to providing an opportunity for needy Nova Scotians to receive the literacy training they require to get the jobs they want. We will continue to expand our efforts in eradicating illiteracy in our Province in conjunction with our many volunteer groups. My Government has already established on the Halifax campus, the first computerized literacy resource centre to provide resource assistance to community based literacy groups. Universities My Government, through the Nova Scotia Council on Higher Education, will continue to work cooperatively with Nova Scotia universities to develop a long-range plan for the development of a coordinated system of post-secondary education in Nova Scotia. Our universities have recently completed statements of their current role and planned capacity which describe their programs, approaches to research and teaching and their plans for the future. These statements are now under review by the Nova Scotia Council on Higher Education and will be analyzed to develop a more coordinated approach to the delivery of university education in Nova Scotia, including program rationalization. This rationalization of university programs will require a consultative approach with the universities over a three-year period and will form the basis of our new funding structure The review will make recommendations for practical actions my Government can take to improve the long-term development of social and economic policy through a strengthened working relationship between my Government and the universities. Outreach Programs My Government will be involved in major outreach programs to improve educational opportunities for the Nova Scotia black community. A Provincial Advisory Committee on Education for Black Learners has been established to advise the Departments of Advanced Education and Job Training and Education on education and skills training issues that affect blacks in Nova Scotia. Recent new initiatives started with the Micmac Community will be enhanced this year as we work together with Micmac educators to develop greater learning opportunities for the native community in Nova Scotia. My Government remains committed to ensuring that greater numbers of minority communities are able to take advantage of the educational training opportunities that are available to other Nova Scotians across the Province Public School Education Already, our Department of Education has taken a number of steps to ensure our education system is moving to better prepare young Nova Scotians for the jobs of the new world economy. The Department of Education is: - initiating an annual summer institute for science teachers focusing on science, computer and technology skills of these teachers; - increasing microcomputer equipment in our schools; - providing microcomputer equipment as part of new school construction projects; - providing educational computer software to schools throughout the Province; - holding workshops for teachers on microcomputer applications; - providing junior high school mathematics teachers with computer education upgrading; and, - establishing an electronic information system for public schools which will include electronic bulletin boards and computer databases. My Government is committed to excellence in education. We believe in working in partnership with other governments and with teachers to accomplish these important goals in making our students Competitive in the 21st Century. Learning Disabilities My Government has received the report of the Standing Committee of this House on Human Resources on the subject of learning disabilities in our public school system. My Government is thoroughly reviewing the report and its recommendations with a view to strengthening the capacity for early identification and development of appropriate responses to the learning disabled in Nova Scotia. Justice My Government has accepted-the report of the Royal Commission on the Donald Marshall Jr. Prosecution. My Government commends the commissioners and commission staff for the thoroughness of their work. My Government has already taken a number of important initiatives in the implementation process and will continue, in partnership with all appropriate stakeholders, to implement the Royal Commission recommendations for justice renewal in Nova Scotia. My Government will inform the people of Nova Scotia of these initiatives as they are developed and presented over the months ahead. My Government through the Department of the Solicitor General, will work to implement the recommendations of the Royal Commission on the Donald Marshall Jr. Prosecution that relate to policing in Nova Scotia. My Government is embarking on a multi-disciplinary approach to family violence which will coordinate the review of all family law and related criminal law issues and implement change in this area. My Government has appointed an Environmental Prosecutor with the responsibility of prosecuting violators of environmental law in Nova Scotia. Health and fitness Ensuring Quality for our People: My Government is committed to ensuring that all Nova Scotians continue to receive the highest possible standard of health care now and in the years to come. That is why my Government appointed the Royal Commission on Health. The Report of the Royal Commission on Health was presented to my Government in December, 1989. My Government on behalf of all Nova Scotians, commends and thanks the commissioners and staff of the Royal Commission on Health. My Government believes that it is essential that we protect and maintain our quality health care system in the 1990's - an era when changing times will produce new challenges. My Government believes that it is important to build on the strong foundation that is in place to ensure that our health care system continues to meet current and new needs of Nova Scotians. My Government has examined the Royal Commission's report, and as part of this examination, the Minister of Health and Fitness recently completed an extensive consultation process in communities throughout Nova Scotia listening to the views of interested citizens. As a result of the public consultation process and feedback from interested Nova Scotians, the following recommendations of the Royal Commission will be implemented immediately: Provincial Health Council In keeping with the Royal Commission's call for greater public participation in the health planning process, my Government will immediately appoint a Provincial Health Council: (a) to advise Government on provincial health policy and goals; (b) to provide for broad involvement by the public in the development of a comprehensive health policy; and (c) to monitor, assess, and report on the changes, progress and achievement in our health care system. Task Force on Nursing: My Government recognizes the key role played by the nursing profession in the delivery of health care services in this Province, and of its changing role in an evolving health care system. My Government will establish a Task Force on Nursing and this Task Force will specifically address planning for nursing human resources, within the framework of a comprehensive health strategy for Nova Scotia. My Government will involve the nursing community which will specifically address: (a) nursing complement; (b) education and professional development; (c) the expansion of the role of nurses in the provision of community-based health care; (d) the role of Certified Nursing Assistants; and (e) enhancement of the work environment. Pharmacare: My Government is dedicated to and remains firmly committed to the provision of prescription drugs to seniors through the Pharmacare Program. To ensure the continued integrity of this Program, as recommended in the Royal Commission's Report, my Government will appoint a Task Force to: (a) develop and implement a physician and consumer awareness program, so as to educate Nova Scotians on prescribing practices and prescription drug utilization; and (b) develop and introduce the requisite computerized information system to improve administration of the prescription drug program. Further to this, my Government will introduce a generic drug requirement as a principle of the seniors pharmacare program, effective June 1, 1990. My Government is planning the development of a smart card system for consumer protection in health services and enhancement. Physicians: The Royal Commission's Report has focused discussion on the issues of physician supply, distribution and utilization, and cost containment of MSI expenditures. My Government will invite the Medical Society of Nova Scotia to work with us to achieve the following objectives: (a) the development of a physician human resource plan within the framework of a comprehensive health human resource strategy. To this effect, Nova Scotia will cohost, together with the Government of Ontario, an Inter-Provincial Conference in Nova Scotia on Physician Manpower Planning; (b) the implementation of alternate forms of remuneration for physicians in Nova Scotia; and (c) the establishment of a Managed Growth Strategy with respect to MSI expenditures. Community Health Initiatives Fund: Community health programs constitute a strong opportunity for improving the health status of Nova Scotians, and responding to specific local health needs. In keeping with the Royal Commission's recommendations, my Government will establish a Community Health Initiatives Fund in support of health promotion and illness prevention projects at the community level. Community Health Centres: To further support community-based health services and foster inter-agency regional collaboration, my Government will promote an expanded role for community hospitals as community health centres, with particular emphasis on meeting primary health care needs through the enhancement of outpatient services and health promotion. Coordination and Implementation Committee: To provide policy direction and coordination with respect to the implementation of the Royal Commission on Health Care's recommendations, my Government will immediately establish a Coordination Committee under the direction of the Minister of Health and Fitness. This Coordination Committee will develop an Implementation Strategy for government's response to the Royal Commission's recommendations, and will oversee and manage the implementation process, in close cooperation with key stakeholders in the health sector. No Smoking: To underline its deep commitment to the health and well-being of Nova Scotians, my Government will introduce a government smoke free workplace policy to be implemented throughout all departments and agencies of government effective August 1, 1990. Youth Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre: My Government will establish an Adolescent Youth Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre to be opened on the site of the former Halifax Civic Hospital. This facility will incorporate in-patient, out-patient, youth daycare and educational services. Community services My Government, through the Minister of Community Services, will undertake a consultation process in 1990 with regard to breaking the welfare cycle. The Minister will consult communities throughout Nova Scotia to solicit the views of interested citizens, organizations, communities and local government on this issue. My Government is negotiating with the Government of Canada to extend the Federal/Provincial Employment Accord which has been in operation for the past three years. This accord has enabled people in receipt of social assistance to receive upgrading and job finding skills. Over 1,000 participants have been successful in obtaining full time employment through this program. This program has been highly successful as a new instrument in breaking the welfare cycle. You will be presented with legislation to replace the current Childrens' Services Act. While continuing to focus on the protection of children, the new Child Protection Act will emphasize services to families. Daycare: My Government will implement a three-year program, beginning in 1990/91, to increase the per diem rate for subsidized daycare seats. This per diem increase for subsidized daycare space will increase revenues to daycare centres. This increase will be dedicated to salary enhancement of childcare workers. Senior citizens The coordinated Home Care Program serving seniors, disabled and families at risk was extended to the whole of the Province in the fall of 1989. Increased emphasis will be placed in the coming year on working with volunteer agencies throughout the Province that directly support the objectives of the coordinated Home Care Program in an effort to increase volunteer participation as a vital response to Home Care needs. Conference on Aging: Planning with Seniors for the 21st Century is the theme of the second Provincial Conference on Aging and the Aged to be held at Acadia University in Wolfville in May. This conference will bring together 200 seniors and 200 service providers, academics, policy makers and business leaders to consider and respond to the findings of the Nova Scotia Task Force on Aging, established by my Government in December of 1987. Organized by the Senior Citizens' Secretariat, the conference will provide delegates with an opportunity to assist in the development of appropriate responses to the challenges facing society as a result of the projected, significant increase in the senior population. Planning with Seniors for the 21st Century will enable my Government to draw upon the experience and knowledge of today's and tomorrow's seniors in planning for the 21st Century. Senior's Expo: To be held in the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax in July 1990, the Seniors' Expo is the first exposition in Atlantic Canada devoted to and directed at North America's most dynamic consumer market, the 50-plus generation. "Life is What you Make It", is the show theme. Seniors are making more use of their lives than ever before. A non-profit project supported by the secretariat and the corporate sector and managed by volunteer committees made up largely of seniors, the Seniors' Expo, provides an opportunity for people of all ages to participate in a two-day consumer show filled with information seminars, highlighting products and services available to seniors, preretirees and their families. Seniors' Art Gallery: Unique in all of Canada, the Nova Scotia Seniors' Art Gallery, sponsored by the secretariat, is located in the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax. Since it was established in 1988, the Seniors' Art Gallery has served as a show-case for more than 300 Nova Scotian artists. Government : managing for results My Government is committed to the guiding principle that the management of government resources must be undertaken more effectively and efficiently to deliver quality of service to the public in accordance with our ability to pay. That is why my Government continues to be committed to our ongoing multi-year fiscal plan of financial management in government operations. My Government is further dedicated to the principle that in growth years government should use that time wisely to reduce its deficit. In achieving that goal, an ongoing plan is to move first to reduce the deficit through economies within government, by being more effective and efficient managers of our government resources. In other words, government first must do all that it can within government to reduce the deficit. My Government believes that it must strive even more vigorously to maintain our sound fiscal plan subsequent to the recent budget reductions by the federal government. The Managing for Results Program announced by my Government in the 1989 Throne Speech is being pursued. In conjunction with the Managing for Results Program, my Government will commence an examination of a number of government services that might be delivered more effectively and efficiently by those in the Private sector. The ability to continue strategic approaches during the current mandate of my Government will necessitate the continued prudent use of financial resources. These strategies necessitate the setting of program priorities based on sound fiscal management. My Government is dedicated to achieving its policies and plans without risking what we have already achieved and to do so in the context of compassion, caring and fairness. Federal/Provincial relations My Government is committed to the guiding principle of working cooperatively with the Government of Canada, other provincial and municipal governments, in areas of shared responsibility in order to ensure that the needs of Nova Scotians are addressed and that our people receive their fair share of benefits and support. Nova Scotia must be treated as an equal partner with all other provinces in Confederation. Fair treatment for Nova Scotians by the federal government is the foundation for cooperation with the Government of Canada in the development of new opportunities. My Government understands that in order to accomplish our goals on behalf of Nova Scotians, negotiations with the federal government cannot always be conducted in harmony. In some situations persistence and forceful diligence is required to obtain fair and equal treatment for the people of Nova Scotia. In order to enhance that principle my Government will open a Nova Scotia office in Ottawa which will be the focal point for a direct provincial presence in the nation's capital. Maintaining a focus on the best options for Nova Scotians is the prerequisite in our dealings with the Government of Canada. Where the federal government's programs and initiatives are not in the best interest of Nova Scotians, my Government will vigorously oppose such initiatives and programs while at the same time recommending alternatives that are in our best interest. The people of Nova Scotia are genuinely concerned about a number of federal government policy initiatives that impact negatively on our province. My Government is committed to continue to work closely with Nova Scotians in addressing these issues and affecting changes in these policies that will be in the best interest of our people. My Government believes that regional economic fairness must continue to be a key building block of Confederation. As we face the new realities of the 1990's, the importance of regional development has to be a major component of national, regional and provincial policy development and implementation. My Government is further committed to leading the process which will result in a new regional development policy for our country. As announced earlier this month, my Government will host a national conference on regional economic development in the spring of 1991. My Government will, when it is in the interest of the people of Nova Scotia and Canada, exercise our national responsibility to cooperate with the federal government in implementing initiatives. An example of Nova Scotia's agreement with Ottawa relates to the Meech Lake Accord. My Government supports the Meech Lake Accord. Meech Lake is important to our future as Nova Scotians and Canadians. It is important to the future prosperity of Canada and to our quality of life. The Meech Lake Accord is essential in preserving the unity of Canada in the future and for the successful economic development of our country and our region. Conclusion This is a time for all Members of this House to cooperate, to work together with all Nova Scotians to serve our Province in building a better Nova Scotia. In conclusion, my Government reaffirms its dedication to working with Nova Scotians to ensure a better and more prosperous Nova Scotia in the 1990's. Important innovative measures will be placed before you for your consideration. The public accounts for the year ended 1989 will be presented for your consideration as will the estimates for the fiscal year to begin April 1, 1990. To these and all other matters that come before you, I ask your most careful attention, praying that sound judgment and Divine Providence may guide you in all your deliberations and decisions. God Save The Queen; God Bless Nova Scotia; God Bless Canada.