By Patricia Arab, MLA
More Nova Scotians are feeling the financial squeeze than ever before. With the highest inflation and rental increases in Canada, power rates have surged by 15% in just two years. Compounding these challenges, the government has cut programs designed to help residents heat their homes and frozen income assistance for two years. To counter these harmful cuts, my caucus has introduced legislation aimed at preventing families from having to choose between paying their power bills and putting food on the table. We’re also advocating for initiatives that help working-class families transition to more energy-efficient heating options, like heat pumps.
The housing crisis continues to be a significant hurdle, particularly here in HRM. With a near-zero vacancy rate, rental prices are skyrocketing, making affordability a dream for many. The current 5% rent cap isn’t working, as rents are increasing by 10% to 20% across the province. We’re calling for measures like establishing a residential tenancies enforcement unit, prioritizing emergency and non-market housing, and reversing harmful cuts to the rent supplement program. We also need to collaborate with municipalities to build the affordable housing desperately needed.
The recent decision by HRM to designate nine new tent encampments for the growing homeless population highlights the government’s failure to effectively manage housing and homelessness. The Premier’s response was to point the finger at HRM instead of assuming responsibility that falls directly at his and the provincial governments feet. After promising 200 Pallet shelters nearly a year ago, only a fraction are in place, and tents are simply not an acceptable housing solution.
A Liberal government here in Nova Scotia would make affordability a priority and have already introduced legislation that offers solutions to some of these issues. One large move would be a promise to cut the HST by 2%, lowering sales tax from 15% to 13%, the lowest in Atlantic Canada. This small change could save families up to $1,500 a year, leaving more money in their pockets.
Since 2021, the government has collected over $3.4 billion more in taxes and revenues than when we were in power, yet Nova Scotians see little to show for it. The government was elected to fix healthcare, but waitlists have doubled, specialist wait times are above the national average, and ambulance offload times have tripled in parts of the province. It’s time for action and accountability. Nova Scotians deserve better!
