Return Home?

---

Page 1 Select a page: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

Total Events: 348 Page Results: 348

---

Government concludes agreement in principle with Irving Shipbuilding Inc. to build combat vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy

Date: February 02, 2012 Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, joined Prime Minister Stephen Harper at the Halifax Shipyard to announce the Government of Canada and Irving Shipbuilding Inc. have successfully reached an agreement in principle that paves the way for the construction of Canada’s combat fleet under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS). The National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy – the largest procurement sourcing arrangement in Canadian history – is expected to create thousands of high-value jobs in shipbuilding and related industries across the country. The Strategy is about undertaking major ship procurements in a smarter, more effective way – a way that sustains Canadian jobs, strengthens the marine sector and provides the best value for Canadian taxpayers. [..]

African Heritage Month: Celebrating Unsung Heroes

Date: February 01, 2012 February is African Heritage Month and therefore a time to reflect on the tremendous contributions African-Nova Scotians have made and continue to make in business, politics, academics, athletics and the arts. Nova Scotia has a rich history in this regard. We can be particularly proud that the efforts of civil-rights pioneer Viola Desmond will be recognized through a February 2nd stage production at Glasgow Square in New Glasgow called Other People’s Heaven: The Viola Desmond Story. Ms. Desmond made history for refusing to leave the ‘whites-only’ section of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow back in 1946. This single act of standing up for what she believed in changed this nation’s history by brining to the fore the struggle of many African-Nova Scotians to have their rights recognized. A visiting businesswoman who refused to be treated like a second-class citizen, Ms. Desmond fought for her rights all the way to the Supreme Court and created awareness about segregation. In the process, she became a human-rights activist who rightfully garnered praise the world over. Canada Post issued two stamps today in celebration of Black History Month, highlighting the experiences and accomplishments of two remarkable Canadians: Viola Desmond and John Ware. Inspirational Canadians like Viola Desmond and John Ware are part of Canada's rich culture and history. These commemorative stamps are a wonderful tribute to these heroes who have shaped and continue to define how we live as Canadians. There are numerous other African-Nova Scotians contributions to our province: - Everett Desmond of Upper Big Tracadie, a lay leader with Tracadie Baptist Church, is a pillar of support in the Guysborough area. - C.F. (Babe) Paris of New Glasgow, an inaugural member of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, has worked tirelessly to promote social justice. - Councillor Henderson Paris of New Glasgow is well-known for founding the Run Against Racism and his efforts to foster a more inclusive society.. - Senator Donald Oliver has played an important role in raising awareness of inequalities. By sharing his views on diversity and human rights with students across Canada, he has educated many Canadians about the fight against racism and intolerance. There are many more African-Nova Scotians that deserve our province's and our country's praise. And so, this month, communities across Nova Scotia will host dozens of events to commemorate the storied history of African Nova Scotians. Everything from an African Heritage Month gala in Guysborough to a month-long cultural celebration in Monastery is taking place. African Heritage Month is an opportunity to better understand of the importance of diversity in our country’s cultural, political and economic landscape. By encouraging tolerance, fairness and inclusiveness every day, we can help make the world a better place. Honourable Peter MacKay MP for Central Nova [..]

DSTN Delivers Final Wind Towers to Sprott Energy Windfarm in Amherst

Date: January 24, 2012 On behalf of the Government of Canada, I’d like to congratulate everyone on a job well done. This is truly a cause for celebration. The shipment of the final tower section from D-S-T-N to Sprott Wind Farm represents an important milestone.You are not only well on your way to powering more Nova Scotians in a cleaner and greener fashion. You are helping to shape the economic future of this province. This fifteen-tower wind farm – which I’m told will generate enough electricity to power ten thousand homes – is good for the community and, in fact, good for Atlantic Canada. Communities throughout the region will undoubtedly profit from the many spin-off effects that this will generate. It’s also heartening to see so many former TrentonWorks employees now working at DSTN. This speaks volumes about the quality and dedication of our workforce. I recognize the valuable partnership between DSTN and Sprott. And how much I value DSTN’s contributions to our region, along with the opportunities this company is creating for Nova Scotians.I wish you continued success in future. Sincerely, The Honourable Peter MacKay Member of Parliament for Central Nova [..]

Jobs and Growth the Priorities as Minister Peter MacKay and Parliamentary Secretary Gerald Keddy Host Pre Budget Consultations

Date: January 24, 2012 The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Central Nova, and Parliamentary Secretary Gerald Keddy (on behalf of Minister Ed Fast) today took part in pre-budget roundtable discussions in Halifax with business, academic and sectoral leaders from across the country. Minister MacKay also held a pre-budget roundtable in Antigonish on January 23rd and will meet with representaives from the Digby-Cornwallis area on January 26th. The event is part of a series of cross-Canada consultations on how best to ensure Canada’s economy continues to produce jobs and growth in a difficult global economy. “Budget 2012 will maintain our focus on jobs and economic growth while reducing the deficit and returning to balance in the medium term,” said Minister MacKay. “Today and in coming weeks, we want to hear from Canadians on how to advance the next phase of our Economic Action Plan to continue to deliver results on these priorities.” In separate roundtables, Members of Parliament MacKay and Keddy met with members of the restaurant, banking and lumber industries as well as representatives from the academic world and local business. “Our low-tax, pro-trade plan has served Canadians well,” said Parliamentary Secretary Keddy. “We will maintain this focus on jobs and economic growth in Budget 2012 and continue to deliver results on these priorities.” Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters welcomed this local opportunity to present employers’ and industries’ concerns to Minister MacKay. “Minister MacKay listened to our suggestions to increase exports and employment,” said Ann Janega, Vice-President, Nova Scotia for CME. “CME also took the opportunity to thank Minister MacKay for his role in facilitating the merit-based National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy, which will set the stage for more high-quality jobs and growth in the region.” Cross-country consultations with members of the government will continue into the New Year, with venues and details to be announced as they become available. In order to ensure that all Canadians can participate in this process, the Harper Government has also launched online pre-budget consultations. Those wishing to make submissions can do so by visiting http://www.fin.gc.ca/prebudget-prebudgetaire/1-eng.asp. [..]

Membertou First Nation from Nova Scotia to join First Nations Land Management Regime

Date: January 23, 2012 The Harper Government today announced that Membertou First Nation from Nova Scotia will soon begin a process to opt out of the 34 land-related sections of the Indian Act and assume greater control over their reserve land and resources, announced the Honourable Peter MacKay, Member of Parliament for Central Nova and Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. 'I would like to congratulate the Membertou First Nation on being the first community in Nova Scotia to join the First Nations Land Management Regime," said Minister MacKay. "This announcement demonstrates our government's commitment to creating jobs and growth for First Nations communities by removing barriers to economic development.' "The First Nations Land Management Regime has a proven track record of increasing economic development opportunities for First Nations," said Minister Duncan. "Together with First Nations organizations and communities, we are working to build a future in which First Nations are self-sufficient and prosperous, making their own decisions, managing their own affairs and making strong contributions to the country as a whole." "I am extremely excited and elated that 18 new First Nations who are well-deserving will be added as signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management," said Chief Robert Louie, Chair of the First Nations Lands Advisory Board (LAB). "This is an investment in First Nations that will bring significant returns to these First Nations and to the entire Canadian economy. For First Nations to be recognized as governing jurisdictions with their own decision making powers is the desire of First Nation communities across this country." Today's announcement is a result of a commitment made in Budget 2011. The Government of Canada committed to reallocating up to $20 million over two years to respond to the growing interest from First Nation leaders to participate in the First Nations Land Management Regime. Improving economic opportunities for Aboriginal people is a priority for the Government of Canada. In June 2009, the Government of Canada released the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development (FFAED) which represents a fundamental change to how the federal government supports Aboriginal economic development. The FFAED emphasizes strengthening entrepreneurship, enhancing the value of Aboriginal assets, and forging new and effective partnerships to maximize the economic development potential of Aboriginal Canadians. [..]

Government of Canada Welcomes Investment in Canada's Energy Future - Nova Scotia's Offshore Oil Potential

Date: January 20, 2012 The Honourable Joe Oliver, Minister of Natural Resources, and the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, today welcomed news of a major new commitment to Canada’s offshore energy resources. The Canada–Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board (CNSOPB) today announced Shell Canada Limited as the winning bidder for four parcels of land off the Nova Scotia coast, resulting from a bid to spend $970 million on offshore exploration activities. “The energy sector will continue to be a major source of prosperity, bringing jobs and economic development to communities across Canada,” said Minister Oliver. “We welcome this significant investment in our energy industry, the single largest bid in the area.” “This bid is an example of the reinvigorated interest in Nova Scotia's offshore oil potential, which could be as much as 8 billion barrels of oil," said Minister MacKay. "Exploration off Nova Scotia's coasts ensures that our energy sector remains dynamic and jobs are created in our communities. This is an exciting time for all Nova Scotians." The parcels of land are located 200 km off Nova Scotia’s southwestern shore. The CNSOPB will proceed with issuing exploration licences effective March 1, 2012, to Shell Canada Limited, pending final ministerial approval by both the federal and provincial governments. The CNSOPB will continue to ensure the responsible and sustainable development of these offshore resources, while protecting the safety of workers and the environment. Further information is available on the CNSOPB website at: www.cnsopb.ns.ca. [..]

Message from Peter MacKay

Date: January 04, 2012 Friends, I am overjoyed to announce Nazanin Afshin -Jam and I married at a private ceremony surrounded by family and loved ones today. Since coming into my life many of you have met Nazanin on her many visits to Nova Scotia. She is the most important person in my life and over the coming months Nazanin and I look forward to spending more time at home in Central Nova and sharing our happiness with all of you. Nazanin and I would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and all the best for 2012. Peter photo credit: Alec & T. Photography [..]

Government of Canada Continues to Increase Public Health Care Funding

Date: January 02, 2012 Whether it’s the birth of a newborn baby, medical help when facing an illnesses, or urgent care during an emergency, we all rely on our hospitals, doctors, nurses and other key parts of our health care system. We want it to be there for ourselves and our family when we need it most. I know how important a reliable health care system is for Canadians and for our community. That’s why I’m so pleased to share the news that this federal government has increased health care funding to record highs – from $20 billion a year when we formed government in 2006 to nearly $27 billion this year, an increase of nearly $7 billion. That’s billions more in increased funding to ensure that you and your family have timely access to the best medical attention available. Building on that record, our Conservative government recently announced we would continue increasing support for Canada’s health care system with a long-term and growing investment. Specifically, federal health care transfers will continue to grow each year at record high levels – for instance, from $30 billion per year in 2013-14 to $38 billion per year in 2018-19. Nova Scotia will receive record-high support through major federal transfers in 2012-13 totalling nearly $2.9 billion – an increase of $594 million (or 26%) from under the old Liberal government, including: - nearly $1.3 billion through Equalization - $797 million through the Canada Health Transfer, an increase of $172 million (or 27%) from under the former Liberal government - $322 million through the Canada Social Transfer, an increase of $56 million (or 21%) since the former Liberal government - $458 million in Offshore Accord payments in 2012-13 - $13 million in Total Transfer Protection to Nova Scotia to ensure we receive at least as much support this year as we did last year. This long-term support helps ensure Nova Scotia has the resources needed to provide essential public services including health care, post-secondary education and other social services.That means federal support for health care will keep growing every year beyond the record levels the federal government has already invested – and in a way that is both predictable and sustainable. This will help ensure Canada’s health care system – including our local hospitals, doctors, nurses, and more – will be there when you and your family need it. The Hon. Peter MacKay Member of Parliament for Central Nova [..]

Central Nova New Year Report 2012

Date: January 01, 2012 As we usher in the new year, it’s a good time to take stock of our finances and our country’s fiscal future. I’m proud to be a part of a government whose economic stewardship has made this country one of the most financially stable in the world. The Harper government has recently introduced some important new measures that will save Canadians money, provide peace of mind and contribute to long-term growth. As of January 1, 2012, Canadians have a new $5,000 of room to invest in their Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA).TFSAs are flexible, registered, general-purpose savings vehicles that allow Canadians to earn tax-free investment income. More than 8 million tax-free savings accounts have been opened to date, with that number expected to grow. The final stage of the bold tax-reduction plan we introduced in 2007 came into force on January 1. At that time, the federal general corporate income tax rate was reduced to 15 per cent. This type of broad-based tax reduction improves productivity and economic growth rates, creating more and better-paying jobs for Canadians and raising the standard of living here in Nova Scotia. New support for caregivers of infirm dependent family members also kicked in on January 1. Announced in Budget 2011, this new 15-per-cent non-refundable tax credit on an amount of $2,000 provides tax relief for caregivers of all types of infirm dependent relatives – including, for the first time, spouses, common-law partners and minor children. It’s great news and needed relief for Nova Scotia families. Furthermore, our government recently broadened the scope for tax relief on investments in manufacturing or processing machinery and equipment. By extending the temporary 50-per-cent straight-line capital cost allowance to include investments undertaken in 2012 and 2013, we help businesses in these industries re-tool to position themselves for long-term success. These tax relief measures now coming into effect will create jobs and growth from coast to coast to coast. It’s clear our government’s low-tax plan is working and the world is increasingly noticing. For more information on tax relief for Canadians, see the Next Phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. The Honourable Peter MacKay Member of Parliament for Central Nova [..]

Visiting Canadian Forces Members Deployed Overseas for the Holidays

Date: December 25, 2011 KABUL, Afghanistan - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, accompanied by His Excellency, the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and General Walt Natynczyk, Chief of the Defence Staff, has concluded a four-day visit with members of the Canadian Forces deployed overseas during the holidays. Minister MacKay met with the crew of HMCS Vancouver, docked in Rome, Italy, then travelled to Canada’s Intermediate Staging Terminal in Kuwait, and concluded his trip by spending Christmas with CF members training Afghan security forces in Kabul. While in theatre, Minister MacKay spoke with US General John R. Allen, Commander of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). “Canadian Forces members have worked tirelessly, at home and abroad, to save lives, provide security, and promote peace,” said Minister MacKay. “It has been a busy, challenging year. As we celebrate the holidays, we should also take time to think of those who are still deployed throughout the world. The Canadian Forces serve and sacrifice to defend our country and it was an honour for me to spend this special time of year with the men and women who represent Canada to the world,” added MacKay. Canada ended its UN-mandated, NATO-led combat mission in Kandahar Province in July 2011 and began a non-combat, Kabul-centred training role that will continue until 2014. Operation Attention, Canada’s participation in the NATO Training Mission–Afghanistan (NTM-A), delivers training and professional development services to the national security forces of Afghanistan, especially the Afghan National Army (ANA) and the Afghan National Police (ANP). Its primary objective is to prepare the Afghan national security forces for a seamless transition of authority by the end of 2014. Minister MacKay visited many of the 920 CF members deployed on Op Attention at their three Kabul-area training locations, and at the Afghan Armed Forces Academy of Medical Sciences, where a group of Canadian Forces health-care providers serve as advisor-mentors to their Afghan counterparts. HMCS Vancouver joined Operation Active Endeavour, the NATO counter-terrorism effort in the Mediterranean, in November, following a successful deployment on Operation Mobile, the NATO-led mission to protect Libyan civilians from the Gadhafi regime. HMCS Vancouver and her compliment of approximately 250 sailors and air crew will remain on Operation Active Endeavour until early next year. The Intermediate Staging Terminal in Kuwait serves as a staging point between Canada and the theatre of operations in Afghanistan, where equipment and personnel are provided safe movement to the next destination. The Canadian Forces currently has 160 personnel in Kuwait. [..]

Happy Holidays from Peter MacKay

Date: December 24, 2011 "Have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends. Wishing you good health, happiness, and prosperity in 2012". [..]

Colonel Commandant of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets Announced

Date: December 23, 2011 Peter MacKay with award winning musicians George Canyon and Dave Gunning after a concert for the troops in Afghanistan (Kandahar Airfield, November 2011). The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, today (December 23) announced that George Canyon, former Honorary Colonel of 14 Wing Greenwood and well-known Canadian country music singer and songwriter, has been appointed as the first-ever “We are absolutely thrilled that George is the first Colonel Commandant of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets,” said Minister MacKay. “Being a former Air Cadet himself, he has always exuded a keen interest in aviation and has made several positive contributions on military matters. He will be an exceptional role model and mentor, motivating Canada’s youth to reach their full potential.” Canyon joined Air Cadets as a young boy with the full intention of becoming a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilot. When a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes prevented him from pursuing his dreams of becoming a pilot, he simply switched gears. His big break came in 2003 when he came in second place during the talent contest Nashville Star, which launched his music career. After learning to manage his diabetes through diet, lifestyle and the effective use of insulin pump technology, and passing a series of medical tests, Canyon has been able to obtain his pilot's license. With his own plane, his personal story of perseverance, and a project he named “The Sky’s Not The Limit,” Canyon organized several speaking engagements and concerts to inspire youngsters afflicted with type 1 diabetes and urged them to take ownership of their disease, pursue their dreams and achieve any goals that they set for themselves. As Colonel Commandant, Canyon will have the responsibilities of developing, promoting and sustaining strong community ties, fostering esprit de corps, and acting as a spokesperson and role model. For the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, Canyon is certainly living up to the title of his Canadian Gold album: “One Good Friend.” For more information and updates related to this Honorary Appointment, please visit www.cadets.ca. [..]

Community Pride Across Cental Nova

Date: December 23, 2011 Peter visited with New Glasgow Mayor Barrie MacMillan,Community Development Officer Geralyn MacDonald, CAO Lisa MacDonald and Marketing Director Kim Dickson as the Town recently earned two prestigious awards. The Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia presented New Glasgow with the Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award and New Glasgow earned 5 Bloom honours at the 2011 National Edition of Communities in Bloom. _______________________________________________________________________________________ Community engagement begins with pride of place, and nowhere is that more evident than in Central Nova. The Town of New Glasgow recently took top honours, among towns of its size, at the national Communities in Bloom awards. This is a huge coup - a tangible recognition of the hard work of our community leaders and volunteers. I’d also like to congratulate the Town of New Glasgow for winning the Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award. These two awards foster a sense of civic pride amongst our residents and reinforce the image of this region as a great place to live, work and play. The Town of Trenton also deserves credit for being awarded five blooms at the Communities in Bloom’s provincial level. This is the second time the town has received the highest honour for similar-sized communities and it speaks volumes about the commitment and dedication of our neighbours. Trenton has undergone a dramatic transformation over the last while and it’s gratifying to see the fruits of that labour recognized. Meanwhile, projects that will enhance our communities for generations continue to take shape in all corners of Central Nova. Efforts are still ongoing in Sheet Harbour, for example, to revitalize the port and create jobs for the region. Antigonish residents are enjoying the newly minted People’s Place, more formally known as the Antigonish Town and County Library. The Government of Canada was proud to support this project with a $1.8-million investment but this new library would not have been possible without the efforts of local individuals and businesses. I’m confident it will inspire a love of learning in a whole new generation, serving also as an important gathering place where residents can freely discuss their ideas. The Hon. Peter MacKay Member of Parliament for Central Nova [..]

Visiting HMCS Vancouver on deployment in the Mediterranean

Date: December 22, 2011 Port of Civitavecchia, Italy - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence speaks with the crew of HMCS Vancouver. HMCS Vancouver and her CH-124 Sea King Helicopter detachment have been in the Mediterranean Sea since August, when she joined the NATO fleet off Libya as part of Operation Unified Protector, the NATO-led mission to protect Libyan civilians from the Gadhafi regime. With the successful completion of NATO operations in Libya, HMCS Vancouver has been re-tasked to participate in Operation Active Endeavour, the NATO counter-terrorism effort in the Mediterranean. HMCS Vancouver and her compliment of approximately 250 sailors and air crew will remain on Operation Active Endeavour until early next year, when she will be relieved by HMCS Charlottetown. HMCS Vancouver’s tasks while on Operation Active Endeavour include locating, tracking, reporting and boarding vessels of interest suspected of involvement in terrorism. Operation Active Endeavour prevents the movement of terrorists or weapons of mass destruction, and enhances the security of shipping in general. Minister MacKay thanked the crew of HMCS Vancouver for their ongoing efforts in the Mediterranean Sea and wished them a happy holidays. “Thanks to HMCS Vancouver and the rest of the Canadian contingent of Operation Unified Protector, Libyans will enjoy a New Year brighter than any they could have imagined under Gadhafi’s dictatorial regime,” added MacKay. [..]

Bilateral Meeting with Minister Giampaolo Di Paola, in Rome, Italy

Date: December 21, 2011 The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, meets with his counterpart, Minister Giampaolo Di Paola. The two leaders spoke on various issues including: Warm bilateral defence relations between Italy and Canada; the F35 joint strike fighter program; the UN-mandated, NATO-led mission in Afghanistan; and, the upcoming NATO meeting in Chicago. Minister MacKay thanked his counterpart for hosting Canadian Forces members and aircraft during Op UNIFIED PROTECTOR. [..]