Articles tagged with "Government and Policy"

The article discusses a significant move by the Nova Scotia NDP leader, who has taken on the role of housing critic amidst a housing crisis. This change comes after Premier Tim Houston appointed John White as the new housing minister. However, the Premier did not establish a separate housing department for the new minister to manage. The decision reflects ongoing challenges and scrutiny concerning housing policies in Nova Scotia.

Charities in Nova Scotia are experiencing increasing demand for their services as the housing crisis coincides with the arrival of cooler weather. The lack of affordable housing options is exacerbating challenges for the unhoused population. With winter approaching, charities are under pressure to provide necessary support. The current housing situation further complicates efforts to shelter and assist those in need.

The Government of Nova Scotia has announced improvements to Highway 102, aimed at easing commuting, supporting housing, and expanding transportation options. The project includes safety upgrades and enhancements for 20 kilometers of the highway near Halifax, potentially influencing economic growth and development for the next 20 years. This initiative involves preliminary design work and assessments, with a request for proposals for a consultant now issued. Modernization efforts might include safer interchanges and high-occupancy vehicle lanes.

Residents in Cape Breton are upset and preparing to challenge a developer who has shown interest in developing a golf course at West Mabou Beach Provincial Park. The area's scenic beaches are at the center of a potential development dispute. Local opposition plans to fight the developer's intentions to preserve the natural environment. Concerns are being raised about the impact on the local community and environment.

Ontario's Minister of Energy and Mines, Stephen Lecce, and Nova Scotia's Premier, Tim Houston, have signed an agreement to collaborate on the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). The partnership will focus on sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources related to new technologies, regulatory infrastructures, and economic factors in the realm of SMR development. This move aims to enhance SMR capabilities within both provinces.

Nova Scotia will partner with Ontario to explore small modular reactors (SMR) as a future clean energy option. This collaboration includes sharing knowledge on SMR technology, regulatory frameworks, and public engagement to help inform Nova Scotia's energy planning. Additionally, Nova Scotia plans to join an interprovincial agreement on transmission interties to support offshore wind projects. Ontario's Darlington New Nuclear Project is noted as a key advancement in making SMRs operational in Canada.

Nova Scotia's $2 million homecare contract was awarded without a bidding process to expedite the implementation of services, according to Seniors Minister Barbara Adams. The decision to forego competition in the bidding was made to move quickly on this urgent file.

Nova Scotia's NDP leader is spotlighting two housing bills that her party introduced, which she claims were ignored due to the government's swift conclusion to the fall legislative session. These bills aimed to address issues related to high rent and housing shortages. The government’s decision to cut short the session has drawn criticism for sidestepping important housing policy discussions.

Residential developers in Canada are positive about collaborating with the federal government's new Build Canada Homes (BCH) agency, which aims to support private builders rather than undertake construction itself. BCH will concentrate on creating affordable housing, initially using public land in various cities including Dartmouth, Ottawa, and Toronto. The agency will work alongside the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and aims to boost the non-market housing sector. Key figures in the industry, like Polygon Realty's Neil Chrystal, appreciate the partnership approach with the private sector.

Halifax Water has applied for a rate increase due to the necessity of replacing aging infrastructure and the general rise in the costs of labor and materials. The utility acknowledges that it should have considered the impact on low-income individuals more thoroughly. These rate hikes are submitted to the province's utilities regulatory body for approval. The decisions are part of broader efforts to address the financial needs of maintaining essential water infrastructure.

Build Nova Scotia has completed the excavation for the QEII Halifax Infirmary's acute care tower, a milestone in enhancing medical services in the region. The site has been cleared of 543,000 tonnes of soil and rock, and major structural work is set to begin, including the foundation and mechanical work. The expansion, expected to finish by fall 2031, will offer 216 new beds and enhanced medical facilities. This project is a pivotal step towards improving access to healthcare in Nova Scotia.

The Government of Canada is awarding $63.2 million to Nova Scotia to fund numerous community-building projects. These projects will cover areas such as public transit, water systems, community infrastructure, and local roads and bridges scheduled for the 2025-26 period. This investment aims to enhance public services and infrastructure across the province.