Members Statement: Community Leaders
April 6, 2018, Brad Trivers, MLA District 18 Rustico- Emerald
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UacmKHzAsJs
Mr. Speaker, it is my absolute pleasure to rise today and salute the leaders in our communities.
Mr. Speaker, community leaders are often volunteers – members of service organizations like the Women’s Institute, Lions Club, and Rotary Club – or church groups like the Catholic Women’s League, Knights of Columbus, and United Church Women – or youth organizations like 4-H, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, and minor sports.
Mr. Speaker, the Montague Rotary Club presented to the Health & Wellness Standing Committee last month and reminded me that these groups often fill the gaps in critical services that this government should be providing – literally millions of dollars worth of supports.
Mr. Speaker, I also want to give special thanks to the many people who put their names forward and serve on community councils – our elected municipal leaders who step up to make such a profound difference in our communities. In most cases the compensation they receive is minuscule for the amount of work they do.
Mr. Speaker, under the new Municipal Government Act passed by both this Government and the Third Party, the scope of their responsibility has been significantly increased. They are being boxed into a corner where there is no other option but to amalgamate – through a flawed process – and they are being asked to lead that too!
Mr. Speaker, I call on this provincial government to join me in recognizing the great work of our community leaders; and I call on this government to fulfill their clearly legislated provincial responsibilities – like land use planning – in support of our communities, instead of continuing with their attempt to pass off these responsibilities.
Mr. Speaker, I want to let community leaders from my district, and right across the Island, know that our Progressive Conservative Caucus supports them and the work they do. Their dedication, hard work and time do not go unnoticed.
Thank You,
Mr. Speaker
