Hospital money announced at Queens candidate’s forum

The Department of Health has formerly committed $10-million to the upcoming Queens General Hospital expansion.

Liberal candidate Wayne Henley, NDP candidate Vicki Conrad and Conservative candidate Kerry Morash were present at the South Queens Junior High School forum, with Green candidate Stuart Simpson declining to take part.

The forum was not a debate between candidates, but rather a chance for the public to hear what each candidate thought on various issues. Occasionally however candidates did criticize the other parties on their policies.

The candidates were asked what they thought was the primary issue regarding healthcare in Queens Co. All candidates gave their support for the expansion of Queens General Hospital.

Henley said this was an issue he is passionate about because of his work in the laboratory at Queens General Hospital.

“I have seen what has eroded at the hospital over the years,” citing O.R. and other services lost. “I will not stand for any more cuts.”

Morash said the government must ensure residents have continued access to high quality health care, and will with the new expansion.

“The CEO has a letter from the Department of Health telling him basically to get started on the hospital.”

He stated the province has designated money for design work and another $10-million for construction. The community has raised about $7-million of another needed $10-million.

Conrad immediately said the announcement for Queens General Hospital from last month was not clear on dollar figures or timeline and the money was for design.

“It’s really unfortunate that some of these election promises have been tugging at the heartstrings of our community,” she said, citing the Queens General Hospital and an addition to Dr. John C. Wickwire Academy instead of a new stand alone middle school.

“It’s just a sad reflection on the government.”

A later call to Kevin McNamara, CEO of South Shore Health, confirmed the Conservative government committed $10-million to the project through a letter, sometime after the design funding was made. However no press release was issued to announce the funding to the public.

All candidates supported a new, freestanding middle school. The question was raised on how, whether they are in the government or the opposition, they would ensure it was built.

Henley said a bill would need to be brought forward in the house on the question of funding.

“Where the priority is already announced (by the school board), hopefully with the support of other members of caucus this motion will go forward.”

Morash stated he wanted to work with the community to find the solution.

“As most of you know, we currently have $8-million earmarked for renovations at the school you’re currently sitting in.”

He said a new middle school makes sense, but adds it will take time to find another $4-million for the new school.

“The Dept. of Education is being fiscally responsible by saying we would rather redo this one at $8-million than build a new one at $12-million.

“Our job, with the school board and everyone else, is to convince them money is best spent at a new free standing school.”

Conrad said she and Leader Darrell Dexter are committed to working with the school board and the community to see the new school happen.

“The current minister (of Education) failed to recognize the priority that both the school board and the community identified.”

A question from the floor came on how the candidates will support Bowater Mersey Paper Company Ltd. and its employees during this economic downturn.

Morash covered his past achievements that have benefited Bowater, such as a $26-million land purchase by the provincial government a few years ago.

He also said the government has to work with Bowater, bringing incentives for the company.

“There are ways of working with Bowaters to reduce electrical costs, which is a tremendous burden.”

They also have the potential of using excess steam generated by the Brooklyn Energy biomass plant, and help businesses have a zero carbon footprint, he added.

Conrad countered by saying the conditions facing Bowaters are not energy related, but come from market conditions.

“This is not about whether or not we have an efficient mill in Queens. We have the strongest little mill this side of Quebec,” she said.

“We need to stand behind our workers and support our mill, to advocate that this is an efficient mill.”

She spoke about accessing federal dollars set aside to help infrastructure, and consult with the management of Bowater to figure out how to help in this time of need.

Henley said the reality is technology has drastically reduced demand for newsprint, and it has a global effect.

“Our door right now is open on how we can help Bowaters. It’s a global issue, and its something the government can’t jump in with both feet without knowing the ramifications.”

Each candidate also had four minutes to make closing remarks.

Henley emphasized a Liberal government will be there for small businesses, helping them stay in communities and grow.

“I have dedicated my professional life to serving people,” adding he wants to continue that as MLA for Queens.

Conrad said this election is about economy and leadership.

“The Rodney MacDonald government is out of touch with families, and has failed Nova Scotians.”

She said the government has made so many commitments; it will take an independent auditor to figure it out what is spent, what is saved and what needs restructuring.

A government needs balance, she said, which an NDP government can bring to the table.

Morash asked the voters to consider two key questions when they go to the polls.

“Look at the party platforms. Ignore the party rhetoric and see what each party is proposing. Then ask yourself which party has a plan to stimulate the economy, keep jobs, and move Nova Scotia forward.”

The second, he said, was make your voices heard.

“Talk to the candidates, look at our records and experiences, and ask yourself which candidate has the best reputation and the experience to get the job done.”