Official Site of Diana Whalen, MLA

A Nova Scotia politician is renewing her call for a provincial holiday in February.
Deputy Liberal leader Diana Whalen has been calling on the Conservative government to declare a new, annual holiday ever since she introduced a bill in 2005.
At the time, only one Canadian province celebrated a February holiday. Since then, the number has increased to five — Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island.
Whalen says making the third Monday in February a day off would give Nova Scotians more time to spend with their families.
"Having a statutory holiday on the third Monday of the month would give people the opportunity to relax and maintain a balance in their lives," Whalen said in a statement released Sunday.
As well, the proposed holiday would fall in line with President’s Day in the United States, she said.
"Monday . . . will see the financial markets closed across North America. The momentum for a winter holiday is clear. Nova Scotia is falling out of step with other provinces, which flies in the face of our quality of life advertising."
So far, Conservative Premier Rodney MacDonald has shown no interest in the proposal.
Whalen said the new holiday could be named after Joseph Howe, the 18th century journalist and former premier credited with securing freedom of the press and responsible government in the former colony.
Nova Scotia has the fewest statutory holidays in the country, celebrating only five mandatory federal holidays — New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Canada Day, Labour Day and Christmas.
Most provinces offer between seven and nine holidays under provincial legislation.
Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories have 10 statutory holidays — more than any province or territory in Canada.
Workers in industries gov-erned by federal jurisdiction, including Crown corporations, transportation and telecommunications firms, have their own list of nine holidays.[Back]

News Release

www.nsliberalcaucus.com

February 12, 2009

Diana Whalen, MLA
Status of Women Critic

Whalen questions whether domestic violence is a Macdonald government priority

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen is criticizing the provincial government for failing to recognize the hard work of the many Nova Scotians who are devoted to eradicating family and domestic violence.

Family Violence Prevention Week has nearly passed us by and the MacDonald government has not seen fit to acknowledge the crisis facing so many Nova Scotians, charges Whalen. Unfortunately, this government has shown time and time again that family and domestic violence is not one of its priorities.

The government set up a domestic violence prevention committee in May 2008 after controversy in the Legislature. Since that time, Rodney MacDonalds government has been completely silent on the committee and its work.

The community members of the Domestic Violence Prevention Committee are working in good faith with government. The government on the other hand, has not provided the committee with a public platform to highlight the unacceptable level of domestic violence in our province, said Whalen. Ignoring domestic violence is not going to make it go away.

Whalen will be attending an event at the Military Family Resource Centre in Windsor Park on Friday. The event is hosted by the Metro Interagency Committee on Family Violence and New Brunswicks successful domestic violence court system will be discussed.

For further information, contact

Kyley Harris
(902) 223-2387
harriskz@gov.ns.ca [Back]

News Release

www.nsliberalcaucus.com

November 25, 2008

Diana Whalen, MLA
Clayton Park

Leo Glavine, MLA
Agriculture Critic

Liberals give animal protection laws some teeth

(Halifax, NS) Liberal MLAs Diana Whalen and Leo Glavine have long sought tougher animal protection laws and as the fall legislative session wraps today, their hard work has finally paid off.

Over the past few years, instances of animal cruelty in this province have been escalating, explains Glavine. Nova Scotians have made it clear that this type of abuse will not be tolerated. Finally, with our amendments to the Animal Protection Act, the law reflects that.

Whalen insists that the animal protection legislation as presented by government wasnt satisfactory, so she and Glavine worked to strengthen the bill by amending it.

The act initially was not strong enough on the issue of pets and the standard of care required, says Whalen. We wanted to provide clarity to help address puppy mills and conditions in pet stores.

The amendments brought forward by the Liberals achieve that by including a stronger definition of what constitutes distress, unsafe living conditions and inadequate care for family pets. Maximum fines allowed under the act were also increased substantially.

Most breeders and pet stores are operated by ethical and humane individuals, states Whalen. These laws are aimed at those who disregard the welfare of the animals in their care.

Glavine says the new law will properly mandate the SPCA to deal with domestic cases of animal cruelty, while ensuring that the Department of Agriculture remains responsible for overseeing the farming industry.

For further information, contact
Kyley Harris
(902) 223-2387
harriskz@gov.ns.ca [Back]

News Release

www.nsliberalcaucus.com

November 20, 2008

Diana Whalen, MLA
Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Critic

Liberals call for renters to receive fair treatment under property tax rules

(Halifax, NS) It is unfair and unacceptable to leave renters vulnerable to the costs of rising tax assessments, says Liberal Critic for Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Diana Whalen.

For this reason, Whalen has introduced a bill in the legislature that would ensure renters in large multi-unit buildings receive the same protection from the cost of rising tax assessments as home owners do.

Whalen points out owners of single family homes and condominiums are protected by a cap on assessments. She notes, however, that large multi-unit buildings are not covered by the same assessment cap.

Whalen explains, Property tax is reflected in rents and renters incur these costs as a share of their buildings operating costs.

It is time this government acted to reflect the needs of all Nova Scotians whether they own or rent their home, claims Whalen. Especially in this economic climate, people need to be able to count on government for real solutions to their problems.

There are more than 45,000 Nova Scotian families living in rental units not currently covered by the property tax assessment cap.

Adding apartments to the property tax cap will help ensure that people who rent will be able to afford to stay in their home.

For further information, contact

Kyley Harris
(902) 223-2387
harriskz@gov.ns.ca [Back]

Over 100 newcomers to get their money back
Immigration minister says refunds 'right thing to do'
By DAVID JACKSON Provincial Reporter
Wed. Oct 22 - 5:13 AM

October has once again been kind to immigrant Jose Duenas.
The Filipino is one of more than 100 people who may now qualify for a refund of up to $80,000 in fees they paid for a troubled provincial immigration program. Immigration Minister Len Goucher announced the refunds Tuesday.
Mr. Duenas said the news is much better than the word he got last fall.
"October, as far as my immigration background is concerned, has always been filled (with) surprises," Mr. Duenas said after Mr. Goucher’s announcement at a Halifax news conference.
"I landed in October . . . 2005. I started my mentorship (in) October 2006. I got blindsided by this whole thing in October 2007, and now, we’re looking for a happy Christmas in October of 2008."
The "whole thing" Mr. Duenas, 58, referred to was last year’s announcement of refunds for people who hadn’t yet signed employment contracts under the economic stream of the province’s nominee program.
Under the program, people paid $130,500 in fees to be fast-tracked into Canada. That included a $100,000 "economic contribution" that would go to a Nova Scotia business where the immigrant would work for at least six months in a middle management position and be paid at least $20,000.
Stories of problems with immigrant-business matches emerged in 2006 and 2007, leading the province to offer $100,000 refunds to people who hadn’t signed a mentorship contract.
Mr. Duenas, who has a background in alternative fuels and information technology, said he had a good experience during his work placement at a Shubenacadie farm. He said helped computerize parts of the operation and developed ideas for planting canola as a source of biofuel.
But he said it didn’t seem fair that people who came through the same immigration program he did could get their money back, and he couldn’t.
"To me, it was not so much the money, as I mentioned. To us, the whole question here was the issue of fairness," Mr. Duenas said.
The available refund is the difference between what the immigrant earned at the work placement and $100,000. Mr. Duenas said he expects he’ll qualify for about $55,000, which he plans to use to build on the alternative fuel projects he discussed with the mentor farmer.
Mr. Goucher said he expects about 100 or 125 people to qualify for refunds, and the total payout should be about $8 million. Immigrants must have proof they’ve lived in the province on a regular basis for at least the last 12 months.
Mr. Goucher said the money will not come from taxpayers. Rather, it’s money paid by immigrants who haven’t met the program’s requirements and have forfeited their fees. In some cases, immigrants would have used the provincial program simply as a quick way to get into Canada and never intended to settle in Nova Scotia.
"This is the right thing to do," Mr. Goucher said. "We believe that nominees and their families who have proven their commitment to Nova Scotia and to building their futures here should be eligible."
Liberal immigration critic Diana Whalen said the new refunds are a good step, one her party called for months ago.
"I have to say the government has been embarrassed and, really, shamed into doing this. It’s taken them a year to come round to understand the position of immigrants," Ms. Whalen said.
Mr. Goucher said in June that more refunds would become available. He said Tuesday that he had been waiting for the auditor general to finish reporting on the program before putting the refunds in place. That final report came Oct. 1.
NDP immigration critic Leonard Preyra said the refunds should go even further. He cited the case of an Iranian psychiatrist who moved here with his wife (who’s also a doctor) and family, only to return home because of the slow process of having their medical credentials recognized.
"I think the program should be expanded to include those who came here in good faith, who tried to make a go of it, and to say to those people that we would like them to come back, and if they come back, we will make them eligible for an expanded refund," Mr. Preyra said.
He said he’s also concerned that some immigrants will end up paying part of their refund as a fee to Ken Friedman, a mostly retired consultant living in Halifax who acted as a spokesman for about 70 immigrants and lobbied government on their behalf.
Mr. Friedman said he took on the job after hearing moving stories from the immigrants last year. He said they paid him $12,000 and agreed to also pay 0.75 per cent of their refunds if the refund option came through.
He said he wasn’t sure how to respond to Mr. Preyra, but he spent hundreds of hours on the issue. Mr. Duenas said the fees are much lower than a lawyer would have charged.
Immigrants have until Jan. 5 to submit their refund applications. There were 206 people who signed employment contracts before October 2007, the cut-off for the expanded refund program.[Back]

Federal cash holding up details of $40.7-million rec centre
Halifax Mainland Common project ready to go but frustration mounts as feds drag heels on announcement
By AMY PUGSLEY FRASER City Hall Reporter
Wed. Jun 4 - 5:36 AM

A $40.7-million recreation centre is in the works for Halifax’s Mainland Common.

The site has been cleared, the plans are drawn up and the funding appears to be in place. It’s just that no one can announce it yet.

Last week, the city unveiled its brand new "community facility master plan." The 159-page book contains a tiny line item for the recreation centre under the "Capital program summary," outlining an outlay of $40.7 million.

Even faced with such proof that the centre exists, regional councillors are still keeping mum.

"I would love to go to the community and say, ‘Here’s the project we’re building for you,’ but I can’t say much about it," said Coun. Russell Walker (Fairview-Clayton Park).

The funding for the state-of-the-art centre is virtually equally divided among the city ($12 million), the province and the feds ($13.34 million apiece).

But the announcement of the rec centre, expected as long ago as last year, is still on hold, pending a nod from the federal government. And it doesn’t even appear to be on Ottawa’s radar.

On Tuesday, the news from the office of Peter MacKay, the minister responsible for ACOA, was that there’s "no news."

"At this time, we don’t have an announcement to provide to you, nor is there a date for any announcement," Jay Paxton, Mr. MacKay’s press secretary, said from Ottawa.

It’s not just the delay that has tongues wagging in Halifax.

The public process surrounding the design of the centre has prompted people to write blogs on the Internet and organize letter-writing campaigns to local newspapers. It also spurred Liberal MLA Diana Whalen to draft a private member’s bill.

In the last week of the legislature’s spring sitting, Ms. Whalen unsuccessfully introduced a bill calling for a mandatory public process in projects with provincial funding of over $250,000. The impetus, she said, was the process surrounding the Mainland Common Recreation Centre.

"The public demands and deserves no less than full accountability when their money is being spent," she wrote in a March op-ed piece in The Chronicle Herald.

"Recreation facilities are desperately needed in Nova Scotia, and the old-time attitude of ‘We know what’s best for you’ coming from the two levels of government is not appropriate or acceptable in 2008."

Susan Kirkland agrees. The president of Build it Right, a residents group fighting for a recreation centre that people want, said the ground has been cleared on the Mainland Common but the community still hasn’t been told what will be built there. The last big public meeting was almost three years ago, she said.

"It’s just not right that the community doesn’t know what’s going on in their own neighbourhood, with tax dollars that they pay for," Ms. Kirkland said.

"And you can be sure that the community is going to be asked to fundraise as well as pay taxes for what is going on."

Mr. Walker said public input was invited, and acted upon, during the design process.

"We had meetings with all the stakeholders to get their input on what they wanted in a facility," he said.

He acknowledged there’s been no public meeting recently but he said open houses that were held were sufficient in terms of planning.

"The big thing was that when we won the 2011 Canada Winter Games, the vision of what we needed to build for those Games was built into this facility," Mr. Walker said.

As a result, the rec centre has grown in scope from $8 million to $11 million to $24 million to $40 million, he said. And it’s clear that nothing will be built without federal money, he said.

A public meeting to announce plans for the new rec centre will be held soon, Mr. Walker promised — "as soon as this federal money is announced."

He said he has seen the plans and the finished rec centre will be "wonderful."

"I would be surprised if any community in Nova Scotia would turn down this rec centre. That’s how nice it is," Mr. Walker said.

The Sackville Sports Stadium, built in 1990, is the last full-service recreation centre built in metro Halifax. It includes hockey and curling rinks, two pools, a fitness centre, a daycare and activity rooms.

Two years earlier, Cole Harbour Place went up, with two arenas and pools, squash courts, fitness and community rooms, a library and a canteen.[Back]

Tories set up domestic violence committee after killing Grit bill
By AMY SMITH Provincial Reporter
Thu. May 29 - 5:08 AM

The head of a Halifax women’s shelter says she’s shocked that Justice Minister Cecil Clarke dumped a domestic violence bill because of politics.

On Tuesday night, Mr. Clarke did not bring forward Liberal MLA Diana Whalen’s bill, which would have established a committee to combat domestic violence, for a final vote in the House because she voted against his bill cracking down on copper thieves.

"I’ve always wondered what value government puts on women and children, and last night I got my answer — it’s less than scrap metal," Joanne Bernard, executive director of Alice Housing, said Wednesday.

"To me it’s offensive, and I was really surprised coming from this particular minister because my sense is that he does get a lot of the issues that face women and children in this province. So clearly this was a political and personal agenda."

Ms. Bernard noted that Mr. Clarke did support a bill by Liberal MLA Michel Samson, who also voted against the minister’s bill.

"Was it a gender thing? Absolutely," she said.

The Transition House Association of Nova Scotia issued a news release Wednesday saying the group was "gravely concerned and very disappointed" with the bill being shelved.

"We wonder how abused women in Nova Scotia will feel, being equated in importance to the theft of scrap metal," co-chairwoman Rhonda Fraser said in the release. "Scrap metal can be replaced. Lives lost to violence cannot."

Mr. Clarke told reporters Wednesday he stands by his decision not to bring forward Ms. Whalen’s bill.

"If there are any people that look at this in a negative light, I regret that, but at the same time you have to look at the MLA in question, and again I am not going to apologize for the politics around this," he said after cabinet.

The justice minister said Ms. Whalen should be the one to apologize.

He announced Wednesday the establishment of a committee on domestic violence prevention, the same kind of committee Ms. Whalen’s bill would have created. Two co-chairs, one from the Justice Department and one from the community, will be announced at the committee’s first meeting next month. The committee will begin consultations in the fall.

Ms. Bernard said the announcement of a committee shows common sense prevailed, and she hopes there will be legislation in the fall to back it up.

Premier Rodney MacDonald said the government didn’t need Ms. Whalen’s legislation to set up the committee, something he said has been discussed for months. He said he stands behind Mr. Clarke.

"He did a good job," the premier said. "He made minority government work."

Ms. Whalen said the Tories were doing "some really fast damage control" by announcing the committee.

She said she was unaware of any deal through which the justice minister would have supported her bill if she had backed his. She said she doesn’t owe anyone an apology.

She said she voted against Mr. Clarke’s bill because recyclers had told the law amendments committee they hadn’t been consulted and needed time to study the proposed legislation.

( asmith@herald.ca)

’I’ve always wondered what value government puts on women and children, and last night I got my answer — it’s less than scrap metal.’

JOANNE BERNARDWomen’s shelter director[Back]

WHALEN SLAMS PREMIER’S ‘PATERNALISTIC’ ATTITUDE
CLAYTON PARK MLA CALLS FOR FULL DISCLOSURE OF MAINLAND COMMON PLANS
May 27, 2008
JON TATTRIE
The Halifax West Clayton Park Weekly News

Fed up with the secrecy surrounding the Mainland Common plans, and fearing a rerun of the Commonwealth Games debacle, MLA Diana Whalen is calling on the Progressive Conservatives to pass a bill that would force governments to be open about major projects they are funding.

At a press conference at Province House last week, the Liberal Party's deputy leader slammed the "paternalistic" attitude Rodney MacDonald's government has taken over the Common project, pointing out that there hasn't been a public meeting on it since 2005.

"The trouble is the province and municipality think that this project is 100 per cent decided upon, but they have neglected the most important component - the public. The secrecy surrounding this project should not be tolerated," Whalen said.

"If public money is going into a project, then people have a right to know what is being planned."

Her private member's bill would compel public consultation on all community-facility projects that the provincial government is funding to the tune of $250,000 or more, either by itself or in partnership with other levels of government. That would include recreational centres, schools, libraries and medical centres.

"We know that a lot of work has happened on the site, but we don't know what any of the plans are - the building footprint, or the components of the recreation centre," she told The Weekly News in an interview. "We know it's going to have a field house as part of the Canada Games, but I think it's shameful that as a host city for the Canada Games, we don't know the details for the Games."

HRM is set to host the 2011 Canada Winter Games.

Whalen thinks the government wants to make one big announcement when the project is done, and not involve the community. "They'll just say, 'Here it is, you should be happy.'"

But she says a project the size of the Mainland Common - which will be within a 20-minute drive for 200,000 Nova Scotians - needs public participation.

"The community ... is getting frustrated with the deafening silence coming from HRM and the province."

Barry Barnet, the Tory minister for Service Nova Scotia and municipal relations, did not reply to an e-mail request for comment by press time. [Back]

NewsRelease
April 28, 2008

Diana Whalen, MLA
Finance Critic

LIBERALS TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE TAX CREDITS

(Halifax, NS) Members of the Liberal caucus will today re-introduce legislation to provide tax credits to individuals who purchase fuel efficient vehicles or use public transportation. A third bill will require the government to choose fuel efficient vehicles when adding to or replacing provincially-owned vehicles.

“The premier has told Nova Scotians to buy fuel efficient vehicles or take the bus if they find fuel costs too high,” says Liberal Finance Critic Diana Whalen. “If he believes that is the best – and only – way to deal with high gas prices, then he should call these two bills for debate and passage on the floor of the legislature.”

However, because these two bills have been before the legislature in the past, Whalen is skeptical of the premier’s commitment to help Nova Scotians cope with gas prices.

Keith Colwell, the party’s environment critic, will also introduce legislation aimed at protecting the environment. The Fuel Efficient Fleet Management Act calls for the government to purchase or lease fuel efficient vehicles.

“This is a responsible bill with responsible outcomes,” says Colwell. “The premier is telling Nova Scotians to purchase fuel efficient vehicles but hasn’t made the same commitment to the environment on behalf of his government. It’s time for him to lead by example.”

To help Nova Scotians deal with high gas prices, the Liberal caucus is advocating a four cent per litre cut in the motive fuel tax and has called on the government for almost two years to scrap gas regulation.

“Nova Scotians need a break at the pumps,” says Whalen. “We have the highest per capita tax gases in the country and pay among the highest gas prices in Canada. Reducing the taxes and scrapping regulation would certainly reduce the sticker shock we experience at the pumps.” [Back]

March 22, 2008

When will HRM, province learn?
Public input vital part of public projects
By DIANA WHALEN

The last HRM public meeting on the Mainland Common Recreation Centre was held in December 2005. It’s no wonder, then, that people are asking what is happening with the project because for the past month, drivers along Lacewood Drive have been watching as trees have come down and trucks and diggers are at work beside the Keshen Goodman Library.

This is the site proposed for the Mainland Common Recreation Centre, but surprisingly there have been no fanfare announcements and the community is in the dark.

The site preparation work is costing $1.8 million and yet HRM has not told the public what is included in the planned facility.

Inquiries from members of the public to HRM and to the provincial Office of Health Promotion have been met with a decided lack of information. We are told that the province and HRM are working closely, but the details can’t be revealed to the public.

The powers-that-be intend to meet with federal representatives to make their request for funding. This hasn’t taken place yet, so they contend there can be no discussion or consultation with the community.

Closed-door meetings and a lack of public information: Does this sound familiar? It has been just over a year since the Commonwealth Games bid collapsed. It appears as though HRM and the province have learned nothing from their mistakes.

The public demands and deserves no less than full accountability when their money is being spent. Recreation facilities are desperately needed in Nova Scotia, and the old-time attitude of "We know what’s best for you" coming from the two levels of government is not appropriate or acceptable in 2008.

Throughout the province, there are pressing community needs and growing frustration. A year ago, the province and HRM were each willing to put forward $300 million to fund the Commonwealth Games. We were chasing the Games because we have a serious lack of recreational facilities, and this was seen as a way to address that. In the meantime, our government has abandoned this commitment to recreation and we are back to Square 1.

One only has to look at the recent meeting in Bedford to see that people are impatient with the lack of consultation and progress on recreation needs. A basic premise of any successful project is citizen engagement, yet this is being ignored.

At the Mainland Commons, there is a chance to build a first-class facility that will serve the 200,000 people who live within a 20-minute drive.

The HRM report on the site work says that "final design details of the facility and a funding strategy are currently being reviewed with the provincial and federal governments." Apparently, when a funding announcement is made, there will be an open house and the plans will be presented to the public. Consulting with the public after plans have been finalized behind closed doors is not good enough!

What meaningful level of input will the community have, once the funding is secured and the announcement is made? The father-knows-best attitude of both the municipal and provincial governments is patronizing and short-sighted.

Other municipalities have been open and accountable and won the support and commitment of their communities. Port Hawkesbury built an $18-million centre for its community and Bridgewater is working with the public to plan its $30-million centre; yet here in HRM, the people are not consulted.

A year after the collapse of the Commonwealth Games bid, we find the province and HRM still trying to manage public projects without public input.

Diana Whalen is the deputy leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party and the MLA for Halifax-Clayton Park. [Back]

News Release
March 19, 2008

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Leader
Halifax Clayton Park

WHALEN CALLS ON GOVERNMENT TO ALLOW U-VINS

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader and Clayton Park MLA Diana Whalen is urging the government to allow u-vins to operate in the province and says Saskatchewan’s decision to allow the activity demonstrates the Nova Scotia government’s outdated attitude to on-site brewing.

“Its time for the government to recognize that prohibiting u-vins is out of touch with today’s consumers,” says Whalen. “The government should be changing this law to reflect modern practices and customer demands. Wine making is a popular hobby but some people don’t have the space, money or the expertise to make it at home.”

Last fall, after a wine supply store in her riding was charged for allowing wine to be brewed on site, Whalen introduced legislation that would allow for u-vins across the province. In addition to Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Ontario and British Columbia allow u-vins.

Whalen says the government should see her legislation as a boost to small businesses by reducing unnecessary regulations and restrictions. “This should be seen as a business opportunity for Nova Scotia entrepreneurs,” says Whalen. "Nova Scotia talks about growth and support for small business, but in this instance they are showing no willingness to review outdated regulations and approaches."

Whalen says this is a public policy question that needs to be reviewed. "I think it’s unfortunate we are not displaying the kind of forward thinking that is needed to support our business community or our reputation as a progressive place to live." [Back]

News Release
February 14, 2008

Diana Whalen, MLA
Liberal Deputy Leader

WHALEN SEEKING JOE HOWE DAY LEGACY PROJECT FOR 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF DEMOCRACY IN NOVA SCOTIA

(Halifax) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen continues to champion a February holiday that will allow Nova Scotians to spend more time with their families.

Whalen is seeking the support of the Democracy 250 Committee for a new statutory holiday, Joseph Howe Day, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of democracy in Nova Scotia. She has asked the Honourable Russell MacLellan and the Honourable John Hamm, co-chairs of the Democracy 250 Committee, to lend their support to this initiative.

"“I can think of no better way than to recognize the contribution that Joseph Howe has made, not only to Nova Scotia, but to all of Canada,” said Whalen. “It supports the aims of Democracy 250 and upholds the memory of a great Nova Scotian.”"

"Whalen says it has been the tradition in Nova Scotia to celebrate the founding of democracy in Canada with a signature project. To mark the 150th anniversary of democracy, for example, the Dingle Tower was erected and the Bicentennial Highway was built fifty years later."

Whalen has re-introduced a private member’s bill in the legislature and if passed it would designate the third Monday in February as Joseph Howe Day in Nova Scotia. The day would be a statutory holiday and retail workers would be protected under the Act that ensures store closures on statutory holidays.

“This year, 56 per cent of Canadians will be celebrating a long weekend in February. It's time for our province to follow suit. I’m asking the co-chairs of Democracy 250 to add their voices to the thousands of Nova Scotians who are in support of honouring Joseph Howe - and their families - with a statutory holiday. [Back]

News Release
January 18, 2008

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader

TIME FOR GOVERNMENT TO ALLOW ON-LINE PETITIONS, SAYS WHALEN

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen is calling on the government to allow Nova Scotians to submit on-line petitions to the House of Assembly. Whalen has raised this issue in the legislature on three occasions only to have the Conservative government vote the resolutions down each time.

Whalen says technology has evolved to allow groups and individuals to establish on-line petitions and collect names electronically in support of their respective causes. She believes it is a convenient and cost-effective way to raise awareness and engage Nova Scotians on the issues.

"People are routinely using on-line petitions. It’s time for the government to acknowledge this trend and adapt our practices accordingly."

Whalen points out that last summer, Premier MacDonald called on Nova Scotians to sign an on-line petition in support of the failed Atlantic Accord, yet his government is refusing to accept these petitions in the legislature. "Nova Scotians are looking for a government that is consistent and willing to lead on the issues. It’s time for this province to start embracing change."

Given declining participation rates in recent elections, Whalen argues that the government must provide Nova Scotians with every opportunity to participate in political matters.

"All Nova Scotians have a right to have their voice heard. Government should be doing everything in its power to reach out and make it easy for citizens to participate."

This week HRM became the first municipality in Canada to accept on-line petitions. "On this issue, the Conservatives continue to cling to the status quo. This is a call for them to take a leadership role, as the municipality as has done, and recognize on-line petitions." [Back]

News Release
December 12, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Critic

WHALEN WANTS GOVERNMENT ACTION TO PROTECT CONDOMINIUM OWNERS

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen today asked the Minister of Service Nova Scotia to commit to protecting condominium owners in Nova Scotia.

Whalen pointed out that there has been an alarming increase in complaints in recent years about poor workmanship in condominium buildings across the province. The situation has become so widespread and serious that a new organization called CONS (Condominium Owners of Nova Scotia) has been formed. Among the changes they are demanding are amendments to the Condominium Act, improvements to the Atlantic Home Warranty Program and professional licensing of builders and contractors.

Whalen says the Atlantic Home Building and Renovation Sector Council has been calling on government for mandatory licensing of residential builders yet the government has not responded.

"These changes would go a long way to ensuring that condos are well built." says Whalen. "Condo owners deserve help now and the government has chosen to delay action which would make builders more responsible for their work."

Whalen also called for an extension to the warranty period from the current one year period. "Houses are covered for five years under the Atlantic Home Warranty Plan for major structural problems, yet condos are currently only covered for one year. That's simply unacceptable." [Back]

News Release
December 13, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader

WHALEN PROPOSES CHANGES TO RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES ACT

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen today introduced a bill in the legislature that would modernize two sections of the Residential Tenancies Act. The bill would grant security of tenure to renters after one year and would allow landlords to give a notice of eviction fifteen days after rent was overdue.

“I see the two changes in this bill as the start of what should be a complete review of the Residential Tenancies Act. I do not believe the current Act is meeting the needs of modern day renters and owners.”]

Currently, renters are granted security of tenure after having lived in the same apartment for five years. Security of tenure gives greater certainty to a tenant since they can only be evicted by an order of the Residential Tenancies Board. This change would harmonize the rights of tenants with those living in mobile homes.

At present, the process of evicting a tenant for non-payment of rent cannot begin until 30 days have passed. Whalen’s amendment would shorten this time frame to 15 days. In many cases it can take up to six months to exhaust all avenues of appeal. [Back]

News Release
December 13, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader

WHALEN WANTS TO GIVE NOVA SCOTIANS A WINTER HOLIDAY

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen continues to champion a February holiday for Nova Scotians that will allow people to spend more time with their families.

Whalen has introduced legislation three times to make the third Monday in February, Joseph Howe Day, a statutory holiday in Nova Scotia. When this was first introduced in 2005, the province of Alberta was the only one to enjoy a winter holiday. Since that time, the province of Saskatchewan adopted Family Day in 2007 and both Manitoba and Ontario will begin to celebrate a winter holiday in February 2008.

“The time has come for Nova Scotia to recognize the need for this holiday. The people of Nova Scotia work hard and they deserve a day to relax and spend with family.” says Whalen.

She notes that Nova Scotia has less statutory holidays than any other province in Canada.

“There are also economic costs associated with not taking time out from work, such as days lost because of illness – particularly during the winter months.”

A recent study by Health Canada has suggested that Canadians are spending on average 45 minutes less per workday with their families than they did two decades ago. As well, Nova Scotians are working longer hours and more unpaid overtime than the national average.

“I will continue to fight for this holiday in the legislature and at every opportunity I have. I believe Nova Scotians deserve it and our economy will be stronger as a result of it,” added Whalen. [Back]

News Release
December 11, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Clayton Park

LIBERALS WANT TO EASE REGULATIONS TO ALLOW U-VINTS

(Halifax, NS) Liberal MLA for Halifax Clayton Park Diana Whalen today introduced a bill in the legislature to reduce unnecessary regulations and allow for the operation of u-vints and u-brews with proper licensing.

Whalen wants government to keep up with the times and reduce unnecessary regulations and restrictions that limit business. In Clayton Park, charges have been laid against Wine Kitz, a wine making store that is allowing wine to be brewed on their premises. This is a practice that is widespread in other provinces and provides convenience and service to customers.

Whalen says the response to this situation points once again to a government that is unwilling to adopt change and to keep pace with the times. "The practice of brewing on site provides choice for customers and helps the small business meet customer demand", said Whalen. "I find it incredible the government would stifle this small business innovation and choose to defend the status quo."

Whalen recognizes that wine making is a big hobby for many people and is urging the government to re-examine our liquor laws in light of changing circumstances.

"Allowing people to ‘brew on site’ would help older and disabled customers who have difficulty in handling the product," said Whalen. "This would also be a great benefit to many people who live in apartments and condos, allowing them to enjoy wine making."

Nova Scotia talks about growth and support for small business but in this instance they are showing nowillingness to review outdated regulations and approaches.

News Release
December 11, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Immigration Critic

LIBERALS WANT TO ENSURE IMMIGRANTS HAVE ACCESS TO PROFESSIONS

(Halifax, NS) Liberal Immigration Critic Diana Whalen today re-introduced legislation that will assist professional and trained immigrants to gain faster entry into their chosen careers in Nova Scotia.

The Access to Regulated Profession Act will allow for the appointment of a commissioner to help ensure that regulated professions and individuals applying for registration in regulated professions are governed by rules that are transparent, objective, impartial and fair.

The role of this commissioner would be to assess the registration practices of these professions and independently advise the House of Assembly on the need for legislation, policies and practices to ensure the fair processing of all applicants.

“Currently we have too many well-trained professionals who can’t work in their chosen vocation because their credentials have not been recognized in Nova Scotia,” says Whalen. “In many cases, it takes years to gain the necessary credentials to be able to work in a career in which they may have many years of experience in their home country.”

Whalen believes if trained professionals could gain access to their vocations more immigrants would chose Nova Scotia as their new Canadian home. “We know Nova Scotia is not a leader in attracting immigrants to our province. In some cases there is no need for the accreditation process to take as long as it does in Nova Scotia. If we are going to have a strong skilled workforce in the future we need to do a better job attracting and retaining immigrants to our province. This bill is a good place to start.”

Whalen says in light of the failed business mentorship program the government must now focus on regaining the trust and respect of newcomers and would-be immigrants to the province. “Easing immigrants’ entry into our workforce is an important element of a successful immigration strategy.” [Back]

News Release
December 6, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader

LIBERALS INTRODUCE BILL TO ELIMINATE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

(Halifax, NS) Today, Halifax-Clayton Park MLA Diana Whalen re-introduced a bill to establish a Domestic Violence Prevention Committee in Nova Scotia.

“Our Liberal bill is an important first step towards tackling a problem that is a reality in the pubic and private lives of many women, children and countless families throughout Nova Scotia,” says Whalen.

The Liberal bill provides for the creation of a multi-departmental, community-representative committee to establish a process to eliminate domestic violence in Nova Scotia.

“Working together, we can raise awareness, change attitudes and protect Nova Scotians against all forms of abuse. Government must commit to supporting all victims of domestic violence and those who are working on a daily basis to address this serious issue.”

“Under this approach, government officials and relevant community organizations are working together to create a process to define, measure and eliminate domestic violence in this province.”

Whalen says the committee will be tasked with reviewing programs and services within the province and examining best practices within other jurisdictions. Upon review, the committee is to make recommendations to government on the implementation or expansion of programs to address prevention, public education, victim support services, treatment programs for abusers and legislative frameworks.

“Domestic violence is not just a personal tragedy. It is a serious crime that affects everyone in our society.”

This session, the Liberals also introduced legislation to create a Domestic Violence Court Program to provide fair and appropriate court proceedings for those involved with domestic abuse. [Back]

News Release
October 31, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Immigration Critic

AUDITOR GENERAL ACCEPTS WHALEN’S REQUEST FOR AUDIT OF NOMINEE PROGRAM

(Halifax, NS) Liberal Immigration Critic Diana Whalen says the fact that the Auditor General has agreed to conduct an audit of the Provincial Nominee Program is proof that the province failed to provide the necessary checks and balances to ensure the credibility of the program and protect the reputation of the province.

Whalen requested the audit last Friday after observing a two hour news conference where provincial immigration officials explained the history of the program. She received confirmation this afternoon that the Auditor General will audit the controversial program and report his findings to the legislature.

"I am pleased that Mr. Lapointe has agreed to investigate this program," says Whalen. "Nova Scotians deserve to know how and why this program failed our newcomers."

Whalen says it’s important to get to the bottom of this program so that the same mistakes are not repeated with the government’s replacement program, which is due this fall.

"Many questions remain unanswered, and hopefully the Auditor General can shed some light with his audit" said Whalen. "Nova Scotians, and the individuals who paid to take part in this program, deserve answers."

Whalen has requested that Lapointe pay particular attention to a trust fund containing the fees from immigrants who took part in the program. Immigration staff say $75 million is sitting in the fund. [Back]

News Release
October 29, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader

WHALEN HOPES WILDERNESS WILL BE PROTECTED

(Halifax, NS) Diana Whalen, MLA for Halifax Clayton Park and Deputy Liberal Leader, is hopeful that an announcement tomorrow will protect the Crown Land in the Blue Mountain – Birch Cove Lakes area. A government press release on Oct. 25 publicized a major announcement from Mark Parent, Minister of Environment and Labour, and David Morse, Minister of Natural Resources concerning the protection of certain Crown lands in HRM.

“The importance of these lands was brought to my attention by a Rockingham resident in the 2003 election,” said Whalen. “One of my first acts after being elected was to hike into Susies Lake to see the beauty firsthand."

Whalen has been calling on the government to protect these lands since being elected in 2003. She put forward a Private Member’s Bill on October 8, 2004, asking the government to protect the Blue Mountain - Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Area under the Wilderness Areas Protection Act. The act has since been reintroduced on two subsequent occasions by Whalen.

After exploring the lands, Whalen spearheaded more than a dozen public walks into the Blue Mountain – Birch Cove Lakes. To raise awareness of the issue, she also hosted a town hall meeting in 2005, spoke at schools, churches and service clubs and collected signatures for a petition. “Public interest in protecting these lands has risen dramatically in the last four years,” notes Whalen.

A variety of community groups, including the Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Society, the Halifax North West Trails Association, the Ecology Action Centre and Canoe Nova Scotia have joined together on this issue and have called upon the government to adopt Whalen’s bill.

“I hope tomorrow’s announcement will fulfill the vision of the residents of Clayton Park and beyond to have a protected wilderness area within easy reach of so many residents,” said Whalen.

The Blue Mountain – Birch Cove Lakes is approximately 1,750 hectares (4,300 acres) and lies about 10 km west of downtown Halifax, behind the Bayers Lake Industrial Park. It is bounded roughly by Highway 102, Route 3, and the Kingswood subdivision. If protected, this will create the largest protected urban wilderness area in Canada. [Back]

News Release
October 26, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Immigration Critic

WHALEN WANTS AUDITOR GENERAL TO INVESTIGATE NOMINEE PROGRAM

(Halifax, NS) Liberal Immigration Critic Diana Whalen has sent a letter to the Auditor General requesting he immediately audit the economic stream of the Provincial Nominee Program, with particular emphasis on a trust fund containing $75 million of nominee program fees.

Whalen is making the request after taking part in a two-hour news conference where senior staff and the minister responsible for the Office of Immigration answered questions on the controversial program. At its conclusion, she called on the government to apologize to current and former nominees of the program.

"After meeting with new comers who have taken part in this program earlier this week and listening to the officials today, it is clear that a lot of questions remain unanswered," said Whalen. "Nova Scotians, and the individuals who paid to take part in this program, deserve answers."

Whalen wants the Auditor General to pay particular attention to the fund, filled with $130,500 in individual fees from immigrants wanting to earn valuable job experience in the province.

"Many nominees have expressed their deep disappointment with the program and should be entitled to some form of compensation," she said. "The government should ensure that any money from the fund not allocated to other sources be returned to immigrants who don’t qualify for the nominee program. In many cases, they were not provided with what was promised - appropriate work experience." [Back]

News Release
September 6, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
HalifaxClayton Park

REPORT LIGHT ON RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPROVE CROSSWALK SAFETY

(Halifax, NS) Liberal MLA Diana Whalen says she is disappointed with the government’s Road Safety Advisory Committee’s report and its failure to provide suggestions to improve crosswalk safety.

"After reviewing the report, I’m concerned the government is more worried about clarifying existing legislation, rather than taking action on improving crosswalk safety," says Whalen. "The Conservative government has delayed the process with committees and reports, but the public expects concrete improvements. Nova Scotians are looking for action, not definitions."

The interim report was released today after calls from the Liberal Caucus on the status of the document, completed in July. The report emphasizes the need to review legislation, which it calls "unclear" and "not compatible with current traffic issues challenging pedestrian safety."

"I’m wondering what changes the government will be making based on the contents of this report," says Whalen. "The minister says to expect legislative changes, but the report only addresses the need to improve definitions."

Whalen says once again the provincial government is failing to act while municipal units are showing leadership.

"HRM has prepared an information booklet on crosswalk safety that will be sent to all households in HRM," she says. "Once again, the municipality has taken leadership on an issue of provincial concern while the government continues to bury its head."

Since 2000, there have been more than 660 injuries due to driver - pedestrian collisions at crosswalks. Whalen believes that number is much higher as many people do not report minor injuries or even near misses on the road. [Back]

News Release
September 5, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Halifax Clayton Park

WHALEN WANTS SIGNAGE TO WARN OF NEW SPEEDING FINES

(Halifax, NS) Halifax Clayton Park MLA Diana Whalen is pleased the government has finally responded to her calls to double the fine for speeding in school and playground zones, but is calling on the government to post signs notifying drivers of the increase.

"What’s the point of increasing the fines if motorists aren’t made aware of it," said Whalen. "The point of doubling the fines is to encourage drivers to slow down in areas where there are many children. Getting a fine after an accident has occurred misses the point. It’s about safety and protection."

Whalen introduced a private member’s bill in 2005 to double the fines for motorists caught speeding in a school zone, playground zone or failing to yield to a pedestrian on a crosswalk in these designated zones. The government followed Whalen’s lead and introduced legislation to combat speeding in school zones that has been in effect since January 1of this year.

"I introduced this bill in 2005 as a deterrent to drivers who speed through school and playground zones. This legislation is about protecting our streets for pedestrians and creating a safe environment for students and young children."

Whalen is concerned that the government has failed to inform drivers of this new law. "Without proper signage to let drivers know about the fines the law does not deter speeding."

Drivers who speed in school and playground zones now face a minimum fine of $330. [Back]

News Release
June 7, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Member, Public Accounts Committee

WHALEN WANTS MAINTENANCE ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS BEFORE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS

(Halifax, NS) In light of the Auditor General’s report that recommends major changes to the way spousal and child support are managed within the Department of Justice, Liberal Public Accounts committee member Diana Whalen is asking department officials to appear before the committee.

Whalen has sent the request to the chair of the committee.

The Auditor General discovered that almost 12,000 cases totaling $106 million are in arrears. He referenced several problems including inadequate enforcement of maintenance orders, unreliable data and a lack of follow-up on cases. He has made 18 recommendations for improvements.

"Children and single parents are going without some of the most essential necessities," says Whalen. "Ninety-five percent of these cases involve children and this money is not reaching them."

Whalen says it is important to hear from department officials to explain the poor performance of the program and also to get a commitment to improve outcomes.

"These statistics are not acceptable," says Whalen. "As an elected representative I want to know mothers and their children in my riding, and across the province, are getting the support they are entitled and gain a better understanding of why this program is failing them so miserably." [Back]

News Release
March 28, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Finance Critic

LIBERALS WANT GREEN ENERGY EQUIPMENT TO BE TAX-FREE

(Halifax, NS) Liberal Finance Critic Diana Whalen will today introduce legislation to exempt renewable energy producers from paying municipal taxes on facilities used in the production of green energy.
The bill is designed to encourage more clean energy production in Nova Scotia.

"Nova Scotia has fallen behind other Atlantic Canadian provinces in the creation and use of renewable energy," she says. "The legislation will help encourage this new industry and create an environment that supports environmentally sustainable energy production."

Whalen says if the government is serious about becoming environmentally responsible, passing this bill should be a priority.

"The government has said it wants almost 20 per cent of energy produced in the province to come from renewable sources by 2013. Providing an incentive is a great way for the government to achieve or surpass its goal." [Back]

News Release
March 8, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Status of Women Critic

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY

(Halifax, NS) Diana Whalen, MLA for Halifax Clayton Park is today recognizing the 30th anniversary of International Women’s Day in Nova Scotia by celebrating the accomplishments of women.

Today, March 8th is a day of global celebration for the economic, political, and social achievements of women. As we celebrate International Woman’s Day here in Nova Scotia, we acknowledge the achievement of women as community members, leaders, and makers of history.

Whalen notes that while there has been much progress for women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and increasing successful female role models there is still much work to be done.

"The unfortunate fact is that equality is still needed in the work world. Women earn 71 cents for each dollar earned by a man and this pay disparity keeps more women and their families living in poverty," said Whalen. "Women take the resonsibility for most family care-giving and that has left many with less pension benefits and security in their senior years. Today many women find themselves looking after both aging parents and a young family at the same time.

Whalen says the struggle continues for women to have access to reliable, affordable day-care which is key to entry into the workforce. “Under our current system there are not enough day-care spaces and the cost is prohibitive. As we approach a looming shortage of workers, it is ever more important to help women to be active participants in all sectors of the work force,” noted Whalen.

Half of all single mothers live in poverty. The Liberal caucus has introduced a bill calling on the Tories to develop a “Poverty Reduction Strategy”. This strategy would identify concrete steps that could be taken to help men and women get the support needed to overcome poverty. Other provinces have taken this step while the government of Nova Scotia has been dragging its heels.

Today we observe International Women’s Day by celebrating the accomplishments women have made over the past century. We remember the countless women who were not given, and are still not given, equal opportunities simply because of their gender. All sectors of society, including government and business, individual women and men, must continue to work together to bring about positive change. [Back]

News Release
February 26, 2006

Diana Whalen, MLA
Halifax Clayton Park

CONSUMERS PAY THE PRICE FOR GAS REGULATION

(Halifax, NS) Once again the government is forcing consumers to pay much higher prices in Nova Scotia at the pumps, said Liberal MLA, Diana Whalen.

Gas prices in Nova Scotia have shot up by 7.4 cents per litre. The price per litre, for maximum self serve in Halifax, is now 103.7 cents up from 96.3 cents. Across Nova Scotia, today’s gas prices are between 102 in Halifax and 105.7 in Cape Breton.

“It’s clear gas regulation is not working for Nova Scotians,” said Whalen. “These prices are not reflective of the global or even Maritime market. Nova Scotians are paying among some of the highest gas prices in the country.”

In New Brunswick gas is now roughly 9 cents cheaper than in Nova Scotia. The maximum for regular unleaded in New Brunswick is 94.7 cents per litre as opposed to 103.7 cents in Nova Scotia. In the past the price difference has been much smaller.

Gas regulation is making retailers less competitive in relation to their New Brunswick counterparts and this is hurting business along the New Brunswick – Nova Scotia border.

“The government has implemented a bad system that consumers and the majority of retailers do not want,” said Whalen. “The government should admit they made a mistake and stop interfering with the marketplace.”

The Liberals have been repeatedly calling on the government to remove gas price regulation since its introduction last summer. [Back]

News Release
December 13, 2007

Diana Whalen, MLA
Deputy Liberal Leader

WHALEN WANTS TO GIVE NOVA SCOTIANS A WINTER HOLIDAY

(Halifax, NS) Deputy Liberal Leader Diana Whalen continues to champion a February holiday for Nova Scotians that will allow people to spend more time with their families.

“The time has come for Nova Scotia to recognize the need for this holiday. The people of Nova Scotia work hard and they deserve a day to relax and spend with family.” says Whalen.

She notes that Nova Scotia has less statutory holidays than any other province in Canada.

“There are also economic costs associated with not taking time out from work, such as days lost because of illness – particularly during the winter months.”