In the recent February 1, 2017 Standing Committee meeting on Education and Economic Development, Minister MacDonald was questioned. One of the questions I asked was, “who specifically should people contact if they have bad internet?”, so that the government can work to address the issues. The Minister said people should “Call our office right away.” […]
Reliable High-speed Internet Needed
Here are my questions on lack of high-speed internet – one of the biggest issues in D18 Rustico-Emerald. Questions include: Why are the terms of the Bell Aliant contract not being enforced? Why is Bell-Aliant allowed to charge the same rate for all DSL accounts – regardless of how fast? (e.g. high-speed internet rates for […]
Can government buy local?
What prevents government from buying local? The Atlantic Procurement Agreement has been pointed to – and so I asked for witnesses to present on it to the Public Accounts standing committee. At the October 5, 2016 presentation some of what we learned is: Detailed specifications for goods and services are encouraged, and if there is […]
DENIED – Debate on High Speed Internet
At the Standing Committee on Education and Economic Development on September 15, 2016, I was denied the chance to speak to a motion, because the chair wanted to “move on”. The chair recognized me before the question was called, and then did not allow me to express my views on behalf of my constituents. Here […]
Proposed Power Transmission Lines and Sub-station
Thanks to the hard work of the working group, and Maritime Electric, the following power transmission lines and sub-station routes have been proposed for what was originally known as the “New Glasgow Sub-Station”. Thanks to Ken Brown for creating this Google Map of the proposed routes with information markers. Just click on a marker to […]
Local Food Act Input
This is an incredibly important piece of legislation, primarily because we need to ensure long-term food security on the Island for all – and work to prevent food waste. Also because of the economic impact buying local can have. Import substitution is just as effective as export growth when it comes to economic impact. One […]
Government Tender Prefers off-Island Suppliers
When buying meat for 17 provincial institutions the “Provincial Protein Tender” specifies a preference for off-Island brands from large multi-national companies: “Preference shall be given to brand name specified on the “Request for Pricing Form” but brand name equivalents may be considered at the discretion of Health PEI.” You can download and view the spreadsheet […]
Small Business Micro-loans
So glad to see that the government has finally implemented a program to help entrepreneurs get the capital they need to operate. This is something that was part of my election platform in District 18 Rustico-Emerald, and I have been fighting for small business micro-loans in the legislature since the spring of 2015. …a micro-business is one-person, two-person […]
Taxi service needed in North Rustico
“A taxi service is much needed in North Rustico. Especially, this would give freedom to those who cannot drive – much needed especially for seniors to seek medical treatment and food.” Notes from Brad This sort of service would be great not only in North Rustico, but in most of District 18.
Solar panels a feasible solution for North Star Arena cost reduction?
What is the cost-benefit analysis for solar panels on the North Star Arena to reduce costs? Is there an opportunity for a funding partnership with provincial and federal governments? (e.g. 1/3 – 1/3 – 1/3)
