Rees' Pieces
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December 2021 - Playing cards on the table
The favourite buzz word is "Affordable Housing", and rightly so. Nova Scotia is facing a disaster with an increasing number unable to afford to put a roof over their head. Many are robbing Peter to pay Paul, so they can be warm and dry. They are not taking the required dosage of medicine; sometimes not getting their prescriptions filled; going hungry, suffering from malnutrition; increasing balance on their credit cards, or choosing whatever is needed to be warm.
Even if you are not a card player, you are aware there is an appropriate time to "lay your cards on the table". For a variety of positive reasons for Colchester now is the time. As a location, Colchester could be the leader in developing "Affordable Housing" projects. Let me provide some suggestions:
- It is not the sole responsibility of county council, or councils and leaders from Stewiacke, Tatamagouche, Truro and Millbrook;
- Citizens and business groups – everyone in the municipality, must come together to develop a solution;
- In the beginning, everyone must "think outside the box", be creative and start a new process;
- Ownership could / should be a combination – through a Co-op, or some other equity investment tool, which permits all groups to have a vested interest.
- Through consultation the County should be the pact leader to get it started but must not be the controlling entity, but must be an investor.
Look at it this way. Imagine a legal structure, an umbrella corporation (Ownership available only to those living or having business in Colchester / Truro / Stewiacke / Tatamagouche and Millbrook. This umbrella company (mega-Corp) would be responsible to develop the plan, acquire lands, oversee construction, manage leases to property occupants, and successfully manage the housing projects for a number of years.
Investors would be a combination of Community Economical Development Funds (CEDIF) – available only to individuals; Colchester business groups; individual businesses, municipal governments could become a shareholder / equity investor by supplying services, such as land, municipal services, water, sewer, etc.
The foregoing was about what and who, now I’ll expand on why:
- Colchester has the geographical location that is within an hour of approximately one million people, and on another matter is ideal location for business expansion or re-location.
- A surge in new businesses, would require housing for employees;
- Debert has an airport in a fog-free location, but the airport needs expansion, equipment upgrades and major investment;
- Almost two years ago, former councillor, Bill Masters commented the county has significant land holdings as part of the Debert Business Park, which would be ideal and easy to develop for residential;
- With CoVid-19 many have chosen Nova Scotia as a new place of residence, primarily because of housing costs, but also Nova Scotia has been a leader with the lowest per capita rate of pandemic infections, deaths and the way Covid was handled.
- Plenty of land is available in the other municipalities within the County, and at costs far below national averages.
- You can think of many other reasons why Colchester is probably the best location in Eastern Canada if not country-wide.
The suggested increase in housing does not need to be limited to "affordability". If lands are opened up for residential construction, they should be a mixture of regular detached housing, multiple unit buildings and as much "affordable housing" as government subsidies are obtainable.
Yes, it would be an organizational nightmare to get started, but other property developers and construction companies would not be excluded. They could become equity partners, and then bid on various parcels of construction.
If private developers can make a profit from inclusion of affordable housing, a mammoth Colchester-owned umbrella entity should be able to do the same. In fact with proper planning the entire project(s) could be the first "net-zero" emission large scale rural-based project in Canada.
Who in Colchester is interested in forming a nucleus group to get things started? Contact me with your ideas. It would take upward of two years for organization development.
Would a minimum goal of 1,500 residential units be achievable within five years of shovels in the ground?
Time will tell - Maurice
November 2021 - Welcome back, recognizing businesses
Times might be changing. During the past year there has not been much opportunity for businesses to celebrate and to congratulate one another while we were embroiled in some sort of CoVid-19 shutdown. Last week the Truro and Colchester Chamber of Commerce was able to hold its Small Business Week festivities to congratulate a number of local businesses.
Having had to cancel events in 2020 the pent up demand to gather meet and celebrate was most evident in last week’s ceremony. Business executives are getting used to wearing masks at such events. Eight local businesses were recognized for success in a variety of categories. (Photos & citations about the businesses are included elsewhere in this issue).
The chamber used the easing of CoVid restrictions to announce the launch of Live for Local Rally which will dole out $15,000 in prizes to promote "shop local". During the CoVid crisis there has been a significant increase in online shopping mostly to businesses who take the money but do not contribute to the local economy.
Studies have shown that 70% of each dollar spent at a local business is returned to the local economy in wages, taxes, support of other business and various forms of participation with charities. To win prizes a customer is encouraged to upload a copy of a receipt of purchase made at any business in Colchester to be eligible for up to $15,000 in prizes.
The Rally was launched at a Fall Celebration event at the RECC when Jackie Putnam provided background music while 150 chamber members and guests enjoyed an evening with Kilted Chef, Alain Bosse who has spend considerable time sourcing local ingredients for a variety of tasting samples how local products can be turned into a culinary delight.
Now that Small Business Week recognitions are back on track the return of congratulations and the celebration of local business is welcomed, but must not stop there. The Town of Truro is to be congratulated on being the first area / municipality in Nova Scotia to have 10 commercial building lots included in a certification program approved by the Atlantic Association of Community Business Development Corporation. The program assures the length of time to go from property purchase to shovels in the ground is fast tracked as all the necessities have been included. According to media reports four of the ten lots in the Business Park on Young Street have already been sold.
The certification program is welcomed by Site Selectors and puts the Town of Truro as another option in the highly competitive global marketplace. It will be interesting to see how long it will take for Colchester to have properties in the Debert Business Park included in the program.
With an extensive inventory of available large and small lots available, the certification program could help propel Colchester nearer to the front of the provincial pact as a location to relocate or establish a new business. Debert’s added attraction is that in addition to access to major highways, rail and sewer it also offers an additional service – the airport – which most other municipalities are not able to offer.
Yes, the airport needs major investment for upgrading, runways expanded and new infrastructure. That’s a matter of a appropriate business plan, decision making and dollars. The gem in the back pocket is the basics are there, the room for expansion is not questionable and Debert has world wide recognition from its many years as a military base.
In addition to its geographical location of delivering within a 100 Km radius the largest population and business base of any area east of Montreal. One problem many areas face is traffic congestion and lack of housing. Debert excels in both areas, because within a stone’s throw there are 100’s of acres of raw land owned by the municipality, which could be developed for residential purposes for thousands of employees for potential business relocations.
The futuristic insight into the airport and availability of lands for residential development was not lost of former 20 year veteran councillor, Bill Masters, who passed away on October 18th. Master had advocated both needed priorization by the municipality.
Maurice
October 2021 - Did Houston paint himself in a corner?
If there is only one thing to be said about Tim Houston PC and opposition leader, now Premier Houston is for at least eighteen month run-up to the provincial election, he was consistent in his message health care was broken and had reached crisis proportions.
It worked.
At the end of August he was sworn in as premier who along with his MLA’s controls 31 of 55 seats in the legislature. It will take several years to determine the answer, but with one consistent message for well over a year, has he effectively painted himself into a corner?
I do not want to play politics, but wish to look at the situation logically. However, logically his success improving healthcare and fixing the broken system should be the only thing he is judged on come next election.
I seem to remember during the campaign he stated over 70,000 Nova Scotians were without a medical doctor and his plan was to ensure everyone had a family doctor.
Within a week of being premier, he fired the Nova Scotia Health Authority administrator and members of the NSHA board. That’s a fine first step, because about two years ago 80% of doctors claimed they did not have confidence in NSHA administration and they must be re-engaged for the system is to work.
However, those actions will be nothing more than smoke screen if he doesn’t implement a plan appropriate to Nova Scotia’s needs. The healthcare system has been in decline for over 30 years starting back when Dr John Savage was premier. Five successive governments under Premiers McNeil, Savage, Hamm, MacDonnell, and MacLellan failed to get it right. Progress was shown by NDP, Darrell Dexter’s four year term with the introduction of the Collaborative Health Care Centers.
If he hopes to succeed, Premier Houston’s plan must look far beyond politics, bureaucracy and unfounded seat-of-the pants urges. Those without family doctors and the doctors themselves could provide insight into what is needed.
Government’s role would be to search out professionals who can develop a workable plan which would lead to success. It will be a long difficult job. Residents must be respectful of the fact significant progress will not be visible for 2-3 years and then we would only be part way there. Sure some limited geographical areas will report success, but it will not be province wide.
As with another hot subject, i.e. - housing crisis and affordable housing, municipalities would be a great source of inputs contributing to successful solutions for healthcare. Municipalities, which federal and provincial governments have overlooked are the one level of government most aligned and knowledgeable with needs in their area.
The ultimate success of Houston’s healthcare new plan cannot be the sole responsibility of his cabinet and bureaucrats in Halifax. If left to Halifax alone there will be not solution.
A significant portion of finding solutions must come from local MLA’s, which brings me to MLA representation. Locally in Cumberland and Colchester four of five sitting MLA’s are part of Houston’s team.
Healthcare success in the two northern counties rests primarily with Rushton, Taggart, Ritcey and Harrison. I suggest they immediately collaborate on development of a two county approach. When deciding to run for office, I’ll bet none of them considered themselves to be "Weight lifters".
I am positive each of them is sincere in their desire to help their electorate. However, on two subjects: healthcare and affordable housing they need training and professional help.
It is their responsibility to do the heavy lifting on these two matters.
Collectively they must find the "gym", which can provide professional "weight lift training" in plan development for healthcare and affordable housing that is separate and apart from their other MLA colleagues, cabinet, Premier Houston or the bureaucracy to find and implement solutions for the Cumberland and Colchester areas.
Time will tell if they can do the heavy lifting. I think they can, but how they approach the challenges will determine the outcome.
With the right approach, they could become a dominant force of four affecting the entire province.
Perhaps now is the time to start building their legacy. - Maurice
September 2021 - Rees Pieces - Have we become crystallized?
The August 17th election ushered in Tim Houston’s Progressive Conservative team into power with 31 seats out of a possible 55. The outcome was shocking in the number of seats they amassed, but not a complete surprise they toppled Rankin’s Liberals who were seeking their third mandate.
The entire coverage area of the Shoreline Journal and South Cumberland News is represented by four Tory blue MLA’s. Once the votes were counted in the election the results showed Tory Rushton (Cumberland South); Dave Ritcey, (Truro Bible Hill Salmon River Millbrook) and Larry Harrison, (Colchester South Musquodoboit Valley) easily won re-election.
Newcomer, Tom Taggart easily beat Merlyn Smith, who was carrying the Liberal banner hoping to keep former MLA, Karen Casey riding in the Liberal column.
Soon Houston’s new government will be sworn in. Houston hit the road running the morning after the election. One of his first actions was to invite other party leaders, Rankin (Liberal) and Burrell (NDP) to join him in meeting Dr Robert Strang to get an update on the CoVid-19 situation.
For the past 18 months, Nova Scotia has been a Canada-wide leader with the least number of infections, hospitalizations and death on a per capita basis. It is Houston’s goal to reduce Covid occurrences even further allowing him to focus on rebuilding the Nova Scotia economy, and usher in a "new normal" with residents as comfortable, as possible as we go forward.
Houston’s big task for the moment is to choose his cabinet ensuring quality paying attention to regional representation, diversity on gender, ethnic backgrounds and leadership attributes. It is unlikely, but if brief recent political success and quality provided a seat at the cabinet table, Cumberland and Colchester could see more than one cabinet minister around the table.
If for no other reason, Tory Rushton, Cumberland South, could be considered for his youth; re-election success and to help dispel the feeling of many Cumberland County area has been ignored by many successive governments as demonstrated by the re-election of Barbara Smith-McCrossin, who won as an independent, following her ouster from the PC’s, primarily on strongly representing the interests of residents in Cumberland North (Amherst and area) during the blockade of Hwy 104.
Representing the Truro Bible Hill Salmon River Millbrook, Dave Ritcey who won re-election comes to the political world with a long list of experience as a senior business executive, whose family have a strong Progressive Conservative background,. Remember, Gerald Ritcey, is deceased father and the family’s lengthy involvement in several community groups and projects.
Newcomer, Tom Taggart, won accolades for gaining one of many seats for the PC’s from the Liberals by snatching Colchester North from the Liberal held seat of retiring Karen Casey. She previously represented the riding as a PC prior to switching parties to join the Liberals. Taggart has over 12 years experience in municipal politics for his service in Colchester’s District 10 and several years as a Nova Scotia representative to the board of Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). Some have suggested he could be a candidate for the Minister of Municipal Affairs portfolio.
It is unlikely the Northern Region will get more than one cabinet minister, but there definitely is quality among our local MLA ranks.
Perhaps it is opportune to review my opening remarks the outcome of the election was not a total surprise, but the largess of seats amassed was a shocker. In an overall analysis, it was not the large swing of votes determining the outcome, but their strategic location. In the popularity contest, the PC’s gained three percent to 38.7 of votes cast going from 17 seats to 31, while the Liberals dropped from 27 seats to 17 with their percentage of the vote fell 2.7 percent to 36.7.
There is no point in trying to evaluate why the outcome except to say Houston spent the last 18 months focusing on one thing – problems in Healthcare. The Liberals folly started to show a lack luster performance the day after (Sunday) Rankin won the leadership when he failed to have breakfast with the other contenders from the leadership race and not speaking to one of the Candidates until Wednesday. There are several other instances displaying weakness or lack of good judgment on Rankin’s behalf. Most noticeable is his public disclosure of two Driving under the Influence (DUI’s). His admission was the proper thing to do, however doing it during a Covid media update was the wrong venue. It put Dr Strang, a public servant right into the middle of a political topic. Some loyal Liberals are starting to question the level of transparency why the DUI’s were not revealed during the leadership race.
I will suggest the election outcome has different unrelated reasons which have not been mentioned to any public degree. It partially revolves around "Are we crystallized".
Crystallization of the human mind has evolved from 18 months of reduced inter-human interactions from being isolated and not doing the things we spent decades doing. During isolation we spent so much time trying to understand ourselves and how we were going to cope, that we have formed morals, standards and aspirations so deeply embedded within us they appear to be crystallized.
Although we might not realize it, but individually we have developed a new outlook with different expectations as to our careers; how we are going to live and contribute to society in general. This is a reason why some sectors – hospitality, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and retail are and will continue to face constant pressures bringing staffing levels back to required levels. Choices and expectations of everything around us have been crystallized.
Our crystallizing of internal thoughts is driving us to have different career excpectations, but has not taken into consideration the changes we need for "job-readiness". As a result some are content to do nothing, stay home relying on Covid grants, assistance or savings until the "new career" drops into our lap.
For our crystallized thoughts to become reality guidance counselors, and job re-training in mammoth proportions will be required to take us to the next level. It’s a matter of going up the ladder one step at a time. With many in the hospitality, restaurant and service sectors wishing to move up, it will provide an opportunity for general laborers or "unskilled" seasonal workers to get into the once "glorified" positions in customer service, waiter / waitress careers and similar jobs.
We need a period of "togetherness" to decide how these massive personal expectations can be implemented. There is an opportunity for Colchester and Cumberland to capture and implement retraining programs to capture the "new waves" to coincide with the lure of people wanting to move to the area so they are exposed to less population density, somewhat lower living costs and a higher standard of living.
The question right now is can political parties in the current federal election adjust their operations and voter appeal to garner support from the newly "crystallized thinking" voters. Will the crystallized thoughts providing an unexpected magnitude shift of the Nova Scotia election be a prelude to what might happen on September 20th? - Maurice
August 2021 - Get out and vote
For almost 18 months we "stayed the blazes home" at the insistence of then premier Stephen McNeil. By following his stern straight-up warnings, we as a population of almost one million people caused Nova Scotia to be a leader with far less Covid-19 infections, serious hospitalization and deaths.
Even though we became agitated from "cabin fever" and the stress of not seeing relatives and close friends, or attending various community events like we did a couple years ago, we can take pride in our collective efforts to remain healthy even though we suffered from isolation anxiety.
While others were suffering with much more rampant rates of infection and higher per capita death rates, they were jealous of our success. The reason was simple: "We did exactly as we were told". We put our concerns for others ahead of our own desires. There was very little flagrant non-mask wearing violations and demonstrations even though we didn’t like what we "had" to do. It didn’t take long for other Nova Scotians to remind us we were coming within 6 feet of them. The smaller the community the more respect was shown.
It will take another year for community groups to get back in the groove and do all the local fund raising events, which have kept rural communities alive. As a result of the caring, and respect, I predict community groups will enjoy a resurgence on community participation, as we find ways to keep ourselves busy, realize the importance of and concentrate on ways to make rural living even more enjoyable. Covid-19 will result in a greater closeness to and appreciation of those around us.
The most damaging effect of the pandemic is the rapid escalation in the price of housing and real estate, when people from other provinces realizing out level of safety started buying properties – sight unseen. Even in some rural areas, the price of putting a roof over your head has far outstripped our ability to build or purchase.
We can talk all we want about the need to invest in existing businesses and provide cheques to help those who lost their jobs get through the rough spots – solutions will evolve. The challenge for federal, provincial and municipal governments will be to design, develop and implement programs which will bring more affordability to housing. Thinking "outside the box" will be required. Whether is mortgage rate relief; extending mortgage terms to 30-35 years or similar concessions. Yes, 30-35 mortgages involve paying a tremendous around of interest until the mortgage is retired. Compare that to becoming a renter, ending up only with a stack of receipts and "no equity" at the end of the same time span.
I’d much prefer the option to end up with a bundle of equity. What are your thoughts?
We now have the opportunity to get out and enjoy times with friends and relatives and we have an excellent excuse when to do so.
We are heading to the election booth on August 17th. Summer elections normally have lower voter turn-out. However, just as we followed guidance and "stayed almost isolated" for 18 months, perhaps this August we change things around.
Would it be a good idea to use, "I have to go vote" as a good reason to get out of the house, see some friends, and do your civic duty?
If you are afraid of large crowds on election day, there are several options available to avoid crowds. If you act on or before August 4th, you can request a "mail-in" ballot. One of the first things to do is to ensure you are on the voter’s list. If you call: 800-565-1504, or email: elections@novascotia.ca you can start the process and also find out the various voting options, alternatives.
(See story elsewhere in this issue, "Please, please VOTE"). We have listed days, hours for returning office voting, community events, etc, We attempted to provide complete details so that Nova Scotia can be the leader in increasing voter turn-out for the August 17, 2021 election.
Regardless of who you support, please exercise the rights that so many have given their lives by serving the Canadian Armed Forces. Do it for them if nothing else. - Maurice
July 2021 - Enjoy the upcoming freedoms, but be careful
Everyone will welcome the forthcoming escape from CoVid lockdown restrictions, as we move into a phase where the pandemic has been wrestled almost into submission. However, we must be aware with the new Delta variant it could raise its ugly head and set us back into another lockdown, which will be more difficult to accept that what we have experienced in the past 18 months.
We must be prudent and aware CoVid-19 or various strains will be among us for decades, just like mumps, measles, polio and Tuberculosis (TB). We may want to always have a mask at the ready.
Because Nova Scotians did as we were told, "Stay the Blazes Home", we have been able to work our way out of the pandemic with far fewer infections and deaths per capita than other provinces. As the numbers recede, Premier Rankin and professional health officials are giving us the opportunity to move around the province, meet up with friends and even give a hug to those we love, plus travel throughout the Atlantic region.
Regardless how much movement we are given over the next few weeks, it is still to be determined how much communal living we are allowed and from what areas (provinces and states) Nova Scotians will be allowed to welcome as visitors to Canada’s Ocean Playground.
If you recall in this column in the May issue, I forecasted had it not been for the recent surge we would have gone to the polls and elected a new provincial government. At the beginning of the article, I suggested with the May surge Rankin would probably delay dropping the writ with an election date between August 20th and September 21st. Of course that is a projection. Rankin could pull the plug earlier for an election date earlier in August.
It was interesting to see Jim Vibert, a communications advisor to five governments turned writer, in his Chronicle Herald article on May 29th suggest "Barring yet another COVID crisis expect a provincial election call pretty close to Labour Day, too".
As unusual as it might seem with fewer CoVid restrictions, we might welcome some "old-fashioned" retail politics whereby we could get out to mingle with friends and attend some political rallies. An election call would give us something else to think about and maybe voter participation might increase above the 2017 level of 53% back to historic levels approaching 70% which occurred in post war years up to the early 1990’s.
One political poll taken in late March and early April suggested the Liberal fortunes had risen to a favourable lead of 24% over Houston’s Progressive Conservatives. However with CoVid fatigue and many feeling the lockdown was too severe, it is understood the polls have tightened and Rankin’s popularity has receded a bit, but has a strong lead.
I suggest, for a first time in a long while, the outcome will depend more on the quality of candidates in each of the 55 constituencies, rather than leadership from a caucus office. Rankin and Houston are unproven as effective provincial leaders.
Globally, as the USA government attempts to find the origin of CoVid pandemic, any blame or restrictions placed on China will be political in nature. If we feel China is a threat to dominance and trade, we (North Americans and Europe) democracies must turn their attentions to changing the supply chains, which would hurt China economically and create high paying domestic jobs and increase self-security.
We must embark on a process to increase research and development to reduce the volume imports from elsewhere. Focus should first be placed on high value items like medical supplies, computer chips, intelligence and similar items which cause us to be vulnerable.
Canada could be a leader in these areas. Historically, we have a proven track record in many areas – polio vaccine – Canada Arm for space ships, and back in the days of sail being a global leader. Once we have focused on the high priced items, we can continue a program of other manufacturing, which we have let slip away over the post-war decades.
Let’s work to put Canada back as a global leader. - Maurice
June 2021 - Be Strong! Be Brave! Be First! Be Safe!
Prior to and since Confederation, Nova Scotians have exhibited traits of strength, bravery, compassion, and doing what has been right for country and colleagues. A year after CoVid-19 took over our lives, we have continued with these traits. Most of us went even further, by demonstrating a willingness to obey, when then Premier McNeil said, "Stay the Blazes Home". Heeding his request resulted in Nova Scotia being Canada’s leader in fighting the virus and the safest province in Canada.
This has lead to many wishing to move here, including former residents deciding now is the time to "return to their roots". Some people are purchasing properties in a virtual manner, without ever viewing the property. Prices have escalated to historic highs and the number of properties sold continues to escalate.
Concern is being expressed the upsurge in pricing is pushing ownership far beyond the reach of most Nova Scotians, but that is a story for another day.
Nova Scotia’s safeness, from the virus, is exhibited by 53 of the total 72 deaths occurred at a sudden and uncontrollable outbreak at Northwood Senior’s Complex. Since its beginning in 1962 Northwood has evolved into the largest not-for-profit continuing care organization east of Montreal.
Yes, all deaths are unfortunate, but with only 20 province-wide, excluding Northwood, Nova Scotia quickly rose to be the safest province in Canada. Being strong, brave, and a desire to succeed we are able to hold our heads high for being Canada’s pandemic fighter regardless of which matrix is used to determine results.
Obeying the request of political and health officials got us to this enviable position. Unfortunately a small number defied everything – not stopping travelling, refusing to wear masks and social distance - causing May’s recent upsurge of over 1,600 cases and more patients in ICU’s than a year ago.
Thanks for them we are in a lockdown banning us from: shopping in traditional ways; throwing many in the hospitality and retail sector out of work; unable to visit family and friends, and prohibited from travelling outside our town or municipality.
When you encounter some who defy all, extend your appreciation for their actions contributing to loss of employment; travel restricted to your municipality and an increased level of loneliness.
Additionally, if you see someone not adhering to protocols, do everyone a favour. Call the authorities. It is not snitching. It is your civic duty to protect the health and safety of all citizens.
When we exit the most recent upsurge things will start returning to the "new" normal, permitting us to travel province-wide, return to work, students will be back in school and the economy will start rebounding.
Those to have stayed on the straight and narrow obeying every request will continue to exhibit a high level of nervousness, because we are unsure if the person next to us has been vaccinated. Traditionally, the "honour system" has been enough, but as has been demonstrated there has been a small number of non-conformists, who were less compassionate continuing not to heeds warnings and requests.
For those who were good "foot soldiers" doing as requested to lessen the pandemic - proof and confirmation is lacking. We need to be "totally" sure. Government should find a way to reward us. We don’t expect government to put something in our pockets, or to give us a medal.
Simply respect and recognize us for our efforts.
Politicians could provide the "assurance" with one simple act. Issue a new health card, which included coding showing we are totally vaccinated, when and with what vaccine.
A decision of this nature would not create a new bureaucracy, would be economical and not infringe on anyone’s constitutional rights and be automatic upon vaccination. Businesses could start swiping Nova Scotia Health Cards, to ensure added safety and as a marketing tool.
The new card would be used as admission requirements permitting concerts and sporting events to be held with safety to help rebuild the economy letting us lead a comfortable safer life.
Nova Scotia would be the country’s leader assuring CoVid protection. This simple act would permit us to be: Be Strong! Be Brave! Be Safe! and Be First! - Maurice
May 2021 - Where’s the Common Sense?
(This column was written on April 17th. Since then the number of CoVid-19 cases have surged to new highs, bringing the centre part of the province to a standstill, and borders will remain closed for another month. This will definitely impact my prediction of a June 15th election. It is more reasonable to assume we might go to the polls later in August. To avoid a summer campaign an election date of September 21 is more probable suggesting the writ could be dropped August 20th).
What I am going to write is primarily based on data from the United States, but the essence of the message, "Where is the common sense" is not foreign to Canada.
USA banned administrating additional doses of the J&J vaccine because six people out of 7-million administered vaccines suffered a blood clot reaction. This meant 6,999,994 people received the benefit of the vaccine.
Meanwhile eight people, plus the shooter were killed in a mass shooting at a FedEx plant in Indianapolis, Indiana, which was the 45th mass shooting incident in the United States within 30 days an average of 1.5 incidents per day. In USA a mass Murder is one where at least four people, not including the shooter, were killed or injured.
Legislation has passed through the US House of Congress yet 100 senators have failed to act. Current president, Joe Biden was a senator almost two decades ago.
My question is: "Where is the common sense"? In the free world – primarily Canada and USA politics has become so polarized common sense is not-existent. USA leads the way, but unfortunately Canada is not far behind.
Here’s a Canadian example. Climate change is of concern and we wish government would do more, but at the same time we resist paying the freight to make it happen.
Conservative leader, Erin O’Toole, understands the dangers behind climate change. During the AGM he pleaded with the executive and delegates to recognize Climate Change. To his dismay and many Canadians, the next day the executive and registered attendees refused to include "climate change" as a recognizable problem and voted not to include it as part of the party platform. I won’t say what I would have done if "I was Erin O’Toole", but you can guess.
The Liberals are not "lily white". Far from it, they have amassed a long list of things lacking common sense. Close to the top \is lack of immediate action to eliminate sexual discrimination and sexual abuse by cleaning up the military brass. Canadians revere our military, but when sexual abuse or discrimination of any kind is paramount we become irate, and demand immediate action. Culprits should be punished not over time, but RIGHT NOW!
As normal taxpayers, we have a role to play. When something is wrong we should be raising HELL, demanding immediate action. Our problem is we are too "laid back". We want things to change, but are fearful to take action, because we might be "singled out".
Nothing will change, to our complete satisfaction, unless we "raise hell and demand action".
Here’s a local example of how to achieve change. In Nova Scotia the Bio-diversity Act was re-introduced. Within 10 days about 4,000 private woodlot owners and the industry formed a coalition demanding action. Backed by a strong advertising campaign, their demands gained traction. Sources indicate former Premier McNeil, Karen Casey, MLA and former MP, Bill Casey reached out and snapped Premier Iain Rankin’s suspenders, which added to the forming revolt in the party caucus. Immediately, many parts of the Act were changed. It passed a week later after three hours debate. This demonstrates change happens if we organize and apply pressure when we are adamant.
CoVid-19 surges have changed the probability of an early Federal Election. To get ahead of the Feds, I predict we will be going to the polls on June 15th or 22nd. In Nova Scotia the writ is normally 34-36 days. If Rankin is to pull the plug, he will have to do it by May 4th or 11th for an election on June 15th or 22nd, (35 days).
That’s my pick, but I can be totally off base. - Maurice
April 2021 - Bancroft & Friends VS Government
Tomorrow, April 1st will reveal a multitude of things, not as an "April Fools Joke", but a decision by the Nova Scotia Supreme Court which will set the destiny of what will or could happen with the 100+ Provincial Parks and Premier Rankin’s legacy.
An unintended consequence of the decision will be the life-long reputation of Premier Iain Rankin, who might have his reputation established within the first month of winning the Liberal leadership and automatically becoming premier to succeed Stephen McNeil.
Premier Rankin was thrust into the middle because he was Minister Lands and Forests, in March 2019, when the provincial government delisted "Owl Head" Provincial Park as a park enabling it being secretly sold to a private developer wishing to establish a Golf Course within a development plan for the 284 hectare Eastern Shore coastal property.
Rankin is culpable as are others in the matter, because as a cabinet member he assisted the government to keep the "delisting" a secret for over nine months. Recently, a large portion of Rankin’s campaign to win the leadership was based on protecting the environment and pushing ahead for a green economy.
If the Supreme Court decision rules in favour of Bob Bancroft and friends, Rankin has a credibility problem. His future actions will reveal if he abides by his decisions in March 2019, or he aligns himself with his recent appeals for environmental protection and a green economy.
The facts are simple. The 100+ areas referred to by the provincial government as "provincial parks", including Owl’s Head, are vulnerable to ongoing political whims. The areas are vulnerable, because the provincial government has not officially and legally designated them as part of the Provincial Parks Act.
Rankin could avoid province-wide criticism by immediately announcing a program to move forward to officially enact the 100+ parks into the Provincial Parks Act and a community-based plan for their enhancement should the court uphold Bancroft and Eastern Shore Forest Watch friend’s claim the site was removed from the protected areas designation unilaterally and without public notice.
This writer who is concerned, not a tree hugger, about the environment and demands honesty, integrity and transparency from elected officials, I have some thoughts about the possibilities, and what could happen:
- All provincial parks should become enshrined into the Provincial Parks Act;
- Forested parts of the parks should be farmed to enhance value, be an educational tool, and become an icon of the community;
- Local volunteer groups would willingly step forward to assume a meaningful role;
- Park staff and local groups could arrange public events to demonstrate forestry techniques using horses and oxen, no machines, which would become an educational tool for school students, park visitors and 30,000 owners of forest land;
- If the areas were "farmed", forest enhancement techniques such as management, thinning, etc could be used as practical demonstrations for students considering a forestry career, give them some on-site experience on a volunteer basis.
- Products harvested on a moderate basis could be used as bark mulch, firewood for park campsites and limited conversion of timber into sawn lumber.
- Quantities generated would not be large but there companies and dealers who specialize in selling "portable sawmills" and local contractors who would jump at the chance to demonstrate their product and skills.
- Proceeds from the sale of sawn lumber should be used by local volunteer groups and park management to deliver the programs how to create a "model forest".
- In areas where there are stands of maples, why not create a series of maple syrup demonstrations?
- There are many more options available not mentioned here.
First and foremost such a program should not be handled or directed from Halifax or regional Department of Forestry offices. Policy should be established, then ongoing execution turned over to local park management, who work hand-in-hand with local volunteer groups and professionals.
I am not suggesting the decision will be in favour of Bob Bancroft and Friends, but how Premier Rankin reacts to the April 1st Supreme Court decision will determine his legacy.
Until next month, enjoy the passing of winter and the oncoming spring weather. Maurice
March 2021 - Will there be two elections this year?
There has been so much going on during the last month, it is difficult to know where to start. For instance, near the first of the month provincial Liberals chose Iain Rankin as their new leader, who will automatically become Premier Stephen McNeil’s replacement. There is a major uproar, which started in Bass River, about the EHS response times which has also evolved into complaints about volunteer Fire Fighters, not being involved in or receiving messages about local 911 events.
Winter finally arrived last weekend with depending where you lived a dumping of 12-24 inches of snow, followed by freezing rain, which turned to rain as temps rose overnight to 12-13. Tuesday morning an onslaught of cold air turn everything into a skating rink.
Recently two matters things have been much in the news and a third matter, at the county level, will become very contentious. As we stay somewhat isolated from Covid-19, within our own bubble, people have lots of time to dwell on "discussions" happening while joining friends for coffee.
First the conjecture there might be two elections this year. Many believe Prime Minister Trudeau might pull the plug and send us to the polls before the end of June. In Cumberland-Colchester the announcement by at least two people who will seek the Conservative nomination to run against incumbent, Lenore Zann. So far Colchester Councillor Tom Taggart and David Phillips, Business Development Officer for the Truro Colchester Partnership for Economic Prosperity have announced their intentions to seek the nomination. It is rumoured a professional in the Truro area medical field will also seek the nomination. No candidates from Cumberland and Amherst areas have reached the speculative stage.
The number of current Liberal MLA’s who have indicated they will not be seeking re-election continues to rise, giving speculation newly installed, Premier Iain Rankin (sworn in Tuesday, February 23) is facing a quandary - when to send us to the polls. By law, he must call an election by May 2022. The 40th Nova Scotia general election was held on May 30, 2017. His problem is not wanting to be in the election cycle close to a Federal Election. It appears to be a guessing game. Will Trudeau go before end of June or wait until later this fall?
So far, according to my memory, the following Liberals will not be seeking another term. Included in the list with the year first elected in brackets includes: Stephen McNeil, (2003), (former premier), Karen Casey (2006), Leo Glavine (2003), Geoff MacLellan (2010), Gordon Wilson, (2013), and most recently Mark Furey (2013).
The second saga is that 100+-Million Americans have been afflicted with a major winter storm, including a week-long deep freeze throughout the entire state of Texas. Imagine Dallas receiving a foot of snow. After the temperatures started to moderate, thawing and melting of snow started, the real damage was with the number of frozen pipes which have basically demolished entire homes. Interesting photos included a chandelier with icicles almost a foot long; ceilings which had fallen due to excessive water dripping from the room above and kitchens with up to three inches of water.
Texas has experienced cold spells in each of the last three decades, but state leaders and electricity executives failed to implement winterization changes mandated by various investigative commissions. All of Canada and many USA states successfully operate power generation and natural gas plants during more severe winter conditions. It is estimated the repair costs will exceed that from Hurricane Harry, which was in excess of $18-Billion (USA dollars).
Colchester Council is facing one of its most difficult "stick-handling" decisions of all times, as it discusses implementing a Noise By-law. It will be far more contentious that the recent uproar from its 2019 dog and kennel by-law.
In today’s legal climate, rest assured following implementation there will be several court battles naming not only the county, but individual councillors as people seek solutions to "unintended consequences". Legal bills will mount and taxpayers will be paying through increased insurance premiums and settlement costs if it reaches that stage.
Until next month. Maurice
February 2021 - Confusion Around CoVid-19
Even though I didn’t change the subject title of this column as result of Thursday’s announcement, I had to change the lead-in to this writing.
Karen Casey’s announcement she will not re-offer in the next provincial election, is a sad moment for Colchester North, but not unexpected. Fifteen years in politics, turning 74 in April, following a successful career in the education system which started in 1967, she has achieved much more than most of us. She was a pioneer in so many ways.
She will be missed, but deserves the time to enjoy grandchildren, and other family events she has missed over the years.
KAREN: Thank you and wishes for good health.
Now I can resume where I intended to go in the beginning.
Premier McNeil and Dr Strang have done a tremendous job disseminating information on Covid-19 and how to keep the infection rate down. Their dedication over the last 10 months has been nothing short of a miracle, because most politicians and public servants are not as forthcoming.
Nova Scotia has among the lowest rates of transmission and serious cases, other than the early mishaps at Northwood, which still accounts for the majority of fatalities. With their honesty and directness, although the public did not like what they were asked to do they paid attention to McNeil and Strang. Restrictions on shopping, dining out, visiting friends and family, participating in sporting activities, or attending sport functions caused major upheavals in normal life.
Restrictions and much heavier workloads has put paramedics, essential emergency staff, medical and staff in the provinces health centres in a very difficult position. It was not just turmoil and working restriction conditions in the workplace, but the additional stress "might they become exposed" to Covid-19, or take it home to family members.
Thankfully most Nova Scotians agreed with strict adherence to Pandemic protocols, but some of our most valued volunteers are confused and feel somewhat marginalized. We must not let that continue, as their volunteering is the backbone of many communities. I’m referring to hundreds, if not, thousands of Volunteer Firefighters and Ground Search and Rescue Units.
We need to ensure they can perform their duties in case of emergencies and train to keep them ready to react or meet to keep the unit functioning.
Throughout Colchester and Cumberland Counties, they perform a valuable service when emergencies arise. I have had overtures from a few individual members and executives, who feel they are overlooked.
I received the following information from one group referencing social distancing and number of people permitted to meet, which stated: "After multiple inquiries, organizations such as Fire and GSAR are being told we are exempt only during emergency calls. How can sports teams meet and practice, and emergency services can`t? Most volunteer Fire and GSAR services cannot run daily operations as quorums are required. Training is vital to keep these types of organization personnel and equipment emergency ready".
I posed a question to Dr Strang during one of the frequent briefings. However, he seemed steadfast the number of people allowed in a group was ten. During the same briefing, he and Premier McNeil raised the limit (and other restrictions) from 25 to 50 groups such as sport teams, arts and culture. These groups can expand their activities, such as practice, virtual performances, but are still restricted to no fans or people in the audience.
Another piece of information filling my email inbox included the following: "Why are Nova Scotia Ground Search and Rescue Teams restricted to groups of 10 persons for their business meetings and the training they need to conduct to be search ready. While we are allowing sports and organized arts and culture to train and practice in groups of 25 persons without practicing physical distancing?"
We need to ensure we do not cast aside or forget the many hours of volunteering firefighters and search and rescue teams donate to the betterment of their communities.
Regardless of family events or work duties they are always there to help us during emergencies.
Thank you. We will always strive to show our appreciation. - Maurice
January 2021 - Can you become a multi-tasker?
As we say farewell to 2020, with the co-Vid-19 pandemic we should not spend a lot of time looking in the rearview mirror. As we spend more time than normal by ourselves or with those in our "very tight" family bubble, we have plenty of time to think about how we should look forward to consider how we can improve our "multi-tasking" skills.
If we don’t look ahead we will be caught "blindsided" by the things which are racing toward us, We need to immediately consider paying down Co-Vid debt and climate change.
Nova Scotia has moved from a budgeted surplus to at least a $778-Million deficit, mostly created by the government’s attempts to keep the economy moving and citizens from starving, or homeless.
The increase in the deficit is a change of $833.9 million from the $55-million surplus anticipated in February and a $74-million change from the July forecast. Total revenue of $11.41-billion is $186.6-million less than budgeted. Total overall expenses are projected at $12.32 billion, which is up $708.7 million.
Additional appropriations were required for 10 government departments for a total of $298.8 million, with the majority of expenses related to COVID-19. Government had a choice, either increase the deficit or permit those less fortunate to face even tougher situations.
If we forget about looking in the rear view mirror, we need to think about how we will help pay down the debt and what government services we will accept being reduced or eliminated. Just because the pandemic was surging, other global situations continued to head our way at amazing speed.
Protocols surrounding CoVid-19 change almost daily. For months, I have mentioned Premier McNeil and Dr Strang have been on-top of things and are constantly advising Nova Scotians, what is necessary to keep the number of infections as low as possible.
Out of the corner of their eye, McNeil, his cabinet and Dr Strang’s team of professionals have also been aware of the onslaught of problems sure to face us about global trade, tourism rebounding, and climate change.
Strengthening our efforts to fight climate change could be an asset for the local economy. If we did less "on-line" shopping from companies remote from us and put more effort into shopping local, even if it is in an "on-line" manner, you will contribute to the betterment of all of us.
If you have become a dedicated or frequent shopper from Amazon, please take this into account. In addition to contributing to the misery and downfall of our local business entrepreneurs, your decision to use Amazon as your favourite on-line retailer, you are contributing to your family or neighbours working less hours at a retail store. That has an immediate negative impact on survival of local businesses and the household income of family, friends and neighbours.
I am not saying local businesses do not contribute to increases of plastics becoming a problem in our oceans, streams and environment. They do. Solutions can be found locally. Climate change problems caused by packaging from Amazon is much harder to control and very difficult to solve.
In 2019, Amazon, a one of the largest global online shopping venues, generated 46.86-Million pounds of plastic, mostly from packaging. Compare that to the 134-Million Pounds of lobster landed at wharves of over 600 communities in Atlantic Canada in 2015-16 fiscal period.
Lobster is not a plastic, but the economic impact is over 2,700 inshore lobster vessels in the 2015-16 season generated revenues of $876 million for commercial and communal commercial license holders, a record for the region. Nearly a one third of the poundage taken from the oceans via lobster landings was replaced with some form of plastic.
We might claim from an ecology point of view too many lobsters are harvested annually, but it’s a regulated resource. You as on-line shoppers are far more destructive.
We need to start multi-tasking to solve the problems created in 2020 and what lies ahead in rebuilding the economy and to stop furtherance of climate change problems.
Happy Holidays and Best wishes for the New Year. - Maurice.