Columns

I want to take this opportunity to outline a few changes, rebates, and programs the government has introduced, including the Affordable Living Tax Credit, free influenza shots, and a program dealing with climate change. First, the tax news. As you know, the HST was restored to its former 15 per cent on July 1. “Nobody [...]

Do I need to hire a Tutor? When is it a good time to outsource your education? Getting a good education today is more difficult. There are increased class sizes and budget cuts. It’s not the fault of the school or teachers; it is a sign of the times. So when is it good time [...]

Cuts to Navy Reserve Training The Navy is facing $3 million in cuts to its reserve divisions. This five percent budget reduction is unfortunate during what should be a year celebrating and strengthening Canada’s navy. The cuts are expected to reduce training for reserve members.  This will affect morale, recruitment, and readiness to serve. I [...]

A recent decision by the Department of Natural Resources Minister, Hon. John MacDonnell, to deny Waverley Amateur Athletic Association’s request to build a Treego facility in MacDonald Sports Park was shocking, disappointing and unacceptable and leaves many questions to be answered by the NDP government, Minister MacDonnell, and our own MLA Percy Paris. First a [...]

Since becoming an MLA in 2006, I have furnished the Percy Paris Award for Social Justice.  The recipient of the award, chosen by the faculty of Lockview High School, is a graduate who has demonstrated a commitment to issues of social justice – previous winners have been involved in issues relating to the environmental, anti-poverty, [...]

Federal Government Should Keep Lighthouses The Harper government recently announced that they want to rid themselves of 1,000 lighthouses across the country by declaring them surplus property as they no longer want to be responsible for their maintenance and care.  The decision will affect communities with lighthouses in every region of the country, including Atlantic [...]

I first heard it many years ago, as my grandfather tanned my behind with a razor strap; and frequently, over the years, I have again heard the statement “Spare the rod and spoil the child .” Today that statement still rings true, and it is no less important in the development of an understanding between right and [...]

House Finances and Household Finances After the Auditor General’s report was issued in early February, MLAs were severely restricted in the amount we could spend on advertising and donations. I have had a ton of calls since then  from disappointed constituents who were hoping to receive a donation to their club, team or organization. Many [...]

Cuts to the Navy Disappointing In mid May, news broke that budgetary shortfalls were forcing the Navy to take three coastal patrol vessels at CFB Halifax and three vessels based at CFB Esquimalt out of service.  Rear Admiral McFadden, Commander of Canada’s Navy, had written a letter in April to navy officials on the East [...]

As summer approaches, parents ask me “How do I keep my child reading over the summer?” Here’s one idea: Start a Summer Reading Book Club. It is actually easier than you think. 1. Invite: Call some friends, neighbours, teammates and invite them to join a reading club. Their ages and reading levels do not need [...]