Province Législature/Legislature Session Type de discours/Type of speech Date du discours/Date Locuteur/Speaker Fonction du locuteur/Function Parti politique/Political party Ile du Prince Edward Island – Prince Edward Island 59 4 Discours du Trône/Speech from the Throne 29-02-1996 Hon. Gilbert R. Clements Lieutenant-governor Liberal P.E.I: Speech from the Throne, Fourth Session of the Fifty-Ninth General Assembly, February 29th, 1996 Fellow Islanders, it is my privilege and honour, in the name of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 11, to welcome you to this Fourth Session of the Fifty-Ninth General Assembly of Prince Edward Island. This is my first opportunity to represent Her Majesty at the opening of the Legislative Assembly and, as I take a different chair in this House, I remain mindful of the many blessings that have been provided to Canada and its people. In a world where many countries are stricken by drought and famine, Canadians have been blessed with abundant crops and natural resources. In a world where many countries lack respect for human rights and the rule of law, Canadians have been blessed with democratic institutions and constitutionally protected rights and freedoms. In a world where many countries have been ravaged by internal conflict and civil war, Canadians have been blessed with a spirit of community and a willingness to resolve differences by peaceful means. As we count our many blessings, we also remember those in less fortunate places. We think, in particular, of the people of the former Yugoslavia, who are struggling to reconstruct their lives in the wake of a bloody and protracted internal conflict. PEACE IN EUROPE Madam Speaker, our hearts are with the people of this troubled land, where war has stolen the dreams and innocence of children, shattered lives, uprooted and torn apart families, and pitted neighbour against neighbour, community against community. Canada has long been at the forefront among nations in fulfilling international responsibilities. In the former Yugoslavia, as part of the United Nations' protection force, our troops conducted themselves with distinction. Now, as people attempt to put the tragedies of war behind them, the people of Canada stand with them, prepared to enforce the peace. As we work abroad in the cause of peace, we also continue to work at home to build a stronger, more socially just and compassionate country. The challenges are great and the stakes are high, particularly in view of the referendum held in the Province of Quebec last October. KEEPING CANNADA UNITED Islanders have strong feelings on the issue of Canadian unity, and with good reasons. Canada began at the other end of this very hall, when the Fathers met of Confederation met here at Province House in 1864. We take great pride in being known as the birthplace of Confederation. We believe strongly in a united Canada. We believe that Canada is far greater than the sum of its parts. We believe that Canadians outside Quebec and Canadians inside Quebec are enriched by each others' presence within our country. Madam Speaker, Canada has been successful because its citizens, often in the face of great adversity, have been willing to change, to adapt and to show flexibility. Dans les jours à venir, mon gouvernement continuera à œuvrer pour préserver l'unité du Canada. Pour réussir cette entreprise, nous devons tous cependant y mettre l'effort. C'est pourquoi ce gouvernement consultera les Insulaires des quatre coins de la province en 1996 afin de connaître leur opinion au sujet de l'unité Canadienne. In the coming days, as new challenges arise, My Government will continue to work to keep Canada united. If we are to succeed in this endeavour, all Islanders must share in the task. As such, over the coming year, My Government will consult Islanders across the Province to solicit their views on the subject of Canadian unity. OVERCOMING CHALLENGE Madam Speaker, just as Canadians have created and sustained Canada in the face of great challenges, Prince Edward Islanders have faced and overcome great challenges together. A few short years ago, the recession had taken a heavy toll on the Island. The Province's economy was emerging from a period of very slow growth, and almost one Island worker in five was unemployed. Federal transfers were declining, bringing about shortfalls in total provincial revenue. The cruel mathematics of annual budget deficit had eroded the Province's ability to provide services that Islanders had come to expect. Today, we have made great progress. Statistics Canada reports that between April 1993 and December 1995, the number of people working in this Province increased by 8,000, reaching an all-time record. These job gains have reduced our unemployment rate by as much as seven percentage points over that time--the largest reduction of any province in Canada. This is a major achievement, Madam Speaker. Nevertheless, despite the outstanding record of the past three years, the unemployment rate is still too high. In the coming days, My Government's emphasis on job creation will continue. Every additional job brings security, well-being, and a better future for one more Island family. Jobs for Islanders remains My Government's fundamental priority. My Government has also placed priority on fiscal responsibility, and in so doing, has restored the capacity of the Province to provide quality services to Islanders into the future. Our service delivery systems and decision-making structures have been reformed to better meet the needs of the future, and to share responsibility with individuals and communities. Prince Edward Island stands today, stronger, more prosperous, and more self-reliant than ever before, ready to face the challenges of the future. Madam Speaker, these are the goals that My Government had in mind when it began its work. Three years ago, in the last election campaign, My Government set out three clear priorities: deficit reduction, economic development, and education. The three are linked together, for the accomplishment of each goal is key to achieving the other goals. Together, they form the basis for a secure, caring, prosperous society with a bright future. These goals have not been easy to reach. Many difficult decisions had to be taken, and sacrifices had to be made. All Islanders have shared in these sacrifices in some measure, and My Government is committed to ensuring that all Islanders benefit from the progress that we have achieved. BALANCING OUR BOOKS Madam Speaker, when My Government began its mandate three years ago, the greatest challenge was to confront and overcome a provincial deficit which had soared to more than 80 million dollars. Without corrective action, the deficit was projected to exceed 120 million dollars within three years. Shortly after assuming office, My Government established a three-year expenditure reduction plan to balance the Budget. Since that time, decisive action has been taken to bring the deficit under control. It has been a difficult but necessary exercise. To ignore the reality of our financial predicament would have been, quite simply, irresponsible. It would have meant continuing to live beyond our means and leaving the bills for future generations of Islanders to pay. It would have meant jeopardizing essential services. This Session, when the Provincial Treasurer stands in this Assembly to present the Budget, Islanders will see that My Government has not ignored these realities. They will see that My Government has done what it said it would do. It has balanced the Budget. EMPLOYING ISLANDERS THROUGH ECONOMIC GROWTH Madam Speaker, economic development has been another core priority of My Government Economic development creates jobs and wealth. Jobs are essential because they increase the resources and well-being of Islanders and their families, and revitalize communities. Wealth is also essential, for it allows the private sector to invest in new opportunities throughout the Province, and provides revenue which My Government invests in services for all Islanders-- education, health care, social supports, roads. These benefits--jobs, and wealth to reinvest in Prince Edward Island--are making us a stronger, more self-sufficient society. Although the past year has seen large-scale economic development announcements which are unprecedented in number and magnitude, My Government remains mindful that small and medium-sized businesses are the heart of our economy. In our Province, the numbers tell the story. Small and medium-sized businesses employ two out of every three Islanders, and 75 per cent of these businesses have fewer than five employees. These businesses are adapting rapidly to new technologies and opportunities, and are at the forefront of innovation and quality. While the private sector must lead in creating economic development opportunities and jobs, government also has a key role to play. By its actions, government can create a climate which encourages and assists the private sector to grow and develop. It can help businesses build relationships in the global community and open doors to new opportunities. It can help Island businesses link together in stronger partnerships and plan for success in the future. During the past three years, Madam Speaker, My Government has played a leadership role in creating a better climate for economic growth. Traditionally, businesses in Prince Edward Island have faced significant obstacles, including access to capital, high costs of transportation and electricity, high taxation rates, and red tape. Our Province has made much progress in reducing those obstacles, and will make further progress in the coming years. My Government has improved access to capital through participation in five separate loan and venture capital programs. These programs range from the New Entrepreneur Loan Program, which has provided more than 125 new businesses with loan guarantees of up to 15,000 dollars each, to the recently announced Atlantic Investment Fund, which will enable individual companies to source venture capital in excess of 500,000 dollars. Transportation costs can have a serious impact on business competitiveness. My Government has placed priority on providing a safe, high-quality, efficient primary highway system throughout the Province, for the benefit of both businesses and the travelling public. Major investments in highway upgrading have been made during the past three years, and further investments are planned. In particular, My Government has recently negotiated an agreement with the Federal Government which will provide an additional 18 million dollars, over and above current expenditures, to our Province for highway construction and repair. In the coming year, My Government will also proceed with the redevelopment of the Hillsborough Bridge and its access ways to accommodate four lanes of traffic--an investment which will open southeastern Prince Edward Island to additional economic and residential growth. Another bridge will open in 1997 as well--a bridge to the mainland which has brought opportunities and prosperity to our Province throughout its construction. Work will continue throughout 1996 and into the following year, providing over 1,000 jobs. My Government is committed to ensuring that the short-term benefits of the fixed link will be followed by long-term prosperity and opportunities for Island workers, businesses, and communities. From the onset of construction, My Government has been working to achieve those goals. In 1997, we look forward to a dramatic increase in opportunities and convenience for all Islanders throughout the Province, for all Island businesses, and for visitors to Prince Edward Island. Other obstacles are also being overcome. The long-standing problem of high electricity rates has been greatly reduced by the Maritime Electric Company Limited Act, which requires the utility to reduce rates to 10 percent above New Brunswick rates by January 1, 1998. Island electricity rates have already fallen by more than 10 per cent from their previous levels and will continue to decline over the coming months. Business creation and expansion can also be encouraged through a fair and efficient tax and regulatory regime. My Government recognizes this, and is committed to keeping its corporate tax rates among the lowest in the country. On the regulatory front, My Government's Community Consultative Committee has undertaken a Red Tape Review, and has heard the concerns and advice of Islanders across the Province. During this Session, the Committee will table recommendations to improve service to the public and the business community and to stimulate economic growth. Madam Speaker, these measures go a long way towards creating a better climate for economic and job growth today and in the future. These efforts have shown results: Prince Edward Island has experienced impressive economic growth in both 1994 and 1995, and the Bank of Montreal predicts that our Province will "Stay at the Top" this year, with economic growth second only to Alberta. But My Government has done more than build a positive climate for growth. My Government has also actively worked with the private sector to encourage growth in those areas of our greatest strength and greatest benefit. ADDING VALUE TO OUR PRODUCTS OF LAND AND SEA Madam Speaker, one of these areas of strength and opportunity lies in adding more value to our raw products of land and sea before exporting them. By doing so, we create jobs, we create wealth, and we create a strong, stable, secure market for our primary industries. In turn, our skilled primary producers and their high-quality products help give our processors a competitive edge in the global market. My Government has placed priority on increasing the value added to our resources --with outstanding results. In 1995 these efforts culminated in a series of major project announcements representing 150 million dollars worth of new investment. Theses investments will strengthen communities and bring jobs to Islanders across the Province. To name but a few, they include: -100 jobs at Summerside's Slemon Park, at a new potato chip plant; -150 to 200 new jobs in New Annan, at a new plant which, when combined with current operations, will create the largest potato processing facility in North America. -35 jobs at Carleton Siding, where one of the most modern potato processing facilities in the world has expanded; -40 jobs in Desable at a processing plant which will expand production of Atlantic Canada's best selling pizza; and -350 jobs in Eastern Kings, where several projects are underway. BREAKING RECORDS IN OUR PRIMARY INDUSTRIES Madam Speaker, these and other investments in food processing will result in more than 1,200 additional jobs across the Province. But this is only a part of the benefits they bring. They also hold the promise of continued success in Prince Edward Island's agriculture, fishing and aquaculture industries, through the stable local markets that they provide. These industries continue to experience record gains. In the agriculture industry, potato acreage increased again in 1995, by more than 12 percent to 105,000 acres its highest level ever. Total farm cash receipts for 1995 reached 323 million dollars, a 5.5 per cent increase over the last record high in 1994. Growth is taking place not only in our long-standing areas of farm strength, but also in new areas. As part of the Eastern Kings Redevelopment Plan, My Government announced a Blueberry Lands Development Program, with the goal of bringing 6,000 acres of unused and underutilized land into production within five years. This project has been extremely successful. To date, more than 4,500 acres of land have been approved, with additional applications pending. This scale of production makes a processing facility in West St. Peters feasible. In turn, the facility's demand for product will create a secure and stable local market for blueberry producers, encouraging further expansion. Not only is the agricultural industry growing and diversifying; it is also increasingly taking charge of its own destiny. During the coming year, My Government will take action to reinforce the industry's shift to greater self-reliance and self-determination, by establishing the Agriculture Industry Transition Program. This Program will support industry's leadership role in planning for a successful, sustainable future. My Government has also developed a new Whole Farm Income Stabilization Proposal designed to act as a safety net for Island farmers in situations of market collapse or crop losses. In the coming year, My Government will negotiate a bilateral agreement with the Federal Government based on this Proposal. The past year has also been an outstanding one for the fishing and aquaculture industries. The landed value of fish and shellfish reached an all-time high - over 110 million dollars. Both the traditional areas of the fishery and a diverse range of new species contributed to this outstanding performance. The aquaculture industry continues to increase both production and quality, anchoring Prince Edward Island's reputation as a producer of some of the finest shellfish in the world. Capping a record year, Madam Speaker, the giant bluefin tuna returned in large numbers, holding promise that North Lake will once again take its place as the Tuna Capital of the World. Further innovation and diversification in fishing and aquaculture requires continued cooperation between the private sector and research and development agencies such as the Atlantic Veterinary College and the Food Technology Centre. My Government will continue to foster partnerships between these groups by establishing the Fisheries and Aquaculture Research Initiative. This program will support industry-driven applied research and development projects in areas such as new species research, new product development, process technology and fish health. To substantially increase the production of high-quality farmed shellfish and, in particular oysters, My Government will also establish the Shellfish Aquaculture Financing Program. This Program will provide qualified shellfish leaseholders with commercial financing tailored to industry requirements, and will complement the technical and marketing support that My Government currently provides to this industry. Madam Speaker, the forestry sector is also at record levels of activity across the Province. Strong prices for lumber and pulpwood are encouraging the harvest of many of Prince Edward Island's aging softwood stands, and providing the revenues to reforest or develop those lands. Last year, more than 50 million dollars of wood products were exported from our Province, up sharply from 1994's record sales. In the coming year, My Government will sign a new Forestry Partnership Agreement with the forest industry which will provide annual funding to renew and sustain our forest resources, so that they remain a lasting source of wealth and jobs. Our primary industries are the foundation of our economy, our rural communities and the Island way of life. My Government will continue to assist these industries to strengthen profitability, promote growth, improve quality and ensure the sustainability of resources. My Government will also continue to press for changes to the Federal Government's proposed Employment Insurance reforms. If our Province is to continue to prosper, seasonal industries must continue to have access to a skilled and motivated labour force. Any federal changes which discourage Islanders from participating in seasonal industries show a lack of regard for Prince Edward Island's economy and, in particular, for the fact that our three largest industries are seasonal, and depend on seasonal workers. My Government will continue to make this case to the Federal Government, and will continue to fight to protect the seasonal workers of this Province. SUCCEEDING AT OUR INDUSTRIAL PARKS Madam Speaker, clearly 1995 was a banner year for many farmers and fishermen and for many Island businesspeople and employees engaged in food processing. Important advances were not confined, however, to this area. Throughout 1995, several major economic development announcements were made which promise additional jobs for Islanders. Many of these announcements were made at our industrial parks and, in particular, those parks in Charlottetown and Slemon Park. In Charlottetown, the West Royalty Industrial Park has enjoyed steady growth over the past few years and is now operating at capacity. Several firms established operations at the Park over the past year and other businesses expanded. Two firms opened stand-alone facilities outside the Park after leasing space within the Park for a number of years. Approximately 1,500 people are now employed full-time, part-time and seasonally at the Industrial Park's 56 businesses. A further increase in employment will take place at the Park when Watts Communications begins operations. The potential of the communications industry for our future is clear, Madam Speaker, when we consider that this development alone will bring 240 full-time jobs to Prince Edward Island--the largest single private sector job creation announcement in the history of our Province. Watts is a leader in the industry, assuring the Province of high-quality secure jobs, a sound business development, and the prospect of expansion in the future. Madam Speaker, half a year ago, Watts was considering over 30 locations across Canada, but Prince Edward Island was not on that list. Three months later, they announced that Charlottetown had won hands down. They gave several reasons for that choice: a responsive, accessible Government; a loyal, hard-working labour force; high- quality, creative training at Holland College; and a state of the art telecommunications system. These are the strengths that assure Prince Edward Island a place in the knowledge-based economy of the future. Technology-based industries hold promise for communities across the Island including the City of Summerside. A few short years ago, Summerside faced perhaps its greatest challenge with the closure of the Canadian Forces Base. The people of Summerside have been successful in turning that challenge into opportunity. They have successfully converted the former air base into an industrial park, and today Slemon Park's 28 companies employ more than 500 people. The recent announcement by Testori Americas Corporation to expand operations at the Park will increase employment by an additional 111 jobs. Madam Speaker, Testori is a company that could have located anywhere in the world. In fact, when My Government first opened discussions with the company, they were considering other locations throughout Europe and North America. The fact that My Government was able to attract this company to Prince Edward Island says a great deal, again, about our competitive business climate, our skilled, dedicated workforce, and our quality of life. These advantages will continue to give Prince Edward Island a competitive edge in attracting businesses from around the world. As well, the continuing growth of aviation- related businesses in Summerside builds credibility and expertise, helping Slemon Park to play an even more successful role in this industry. Madam Speaker, just as too have the people of Borden Carleton. the people of Summerside have risen to their challenge, so REDEVELOPING BORDEN-CARLETON It is often said that we live in a rapidly changing world. Nowhere is this more true than in Borden-Carleton. Over the past few years, the people of this community have lived in the shadows of giant cranes and pier shafts. Collectively they have been witnesses to, and participants in, a world-class megaproject. Throughout this time, the people of Borden-Carleton have shown tremendous resiliency and optimism. They have embraced change and the opportunities that change presents. Almost a year ago, they made the decision to amalgamate their communities. Since that time there have been significant announcements: an 11 million dollar packaging plant; a 12 million dollar "Gateway Village" made up of retail, commercial and tourist operations; and a world class interpretative centre which will showcase the natural beauty, friendliness and other assets that make Prince Edward Island a unique place to live and visit. These projects, combined with post-link employment by Strait Crossing Incorporated, will help to ensure that Borden-Carleton continues to play a key role in the Province's economy. Borden-Carleton has historically welcomed the vast majority of visitors to our Province. The new interpretative centre and Gateway Village will continue that heritage. To ensure that both visitors and returning Islanders enjoy Prince Edward Island's matchless beauty from the onset of their travel, development along the highway from Borden-Carleton to the Albany intersection is being carefully planned to preserve its scenic quality. BUILDING A VIBRANT TOURISM INDUSTRY Madam Speaker, the beauty of our Province's landscape is, quite simply, beyond compare. More than 460 years ago, French explorer Jacques Cartier called Prince Edward Island "the fairest land that may possibly be seen." Our famous writer Lucy Maud Montgomery wrote of "... the vivid colour contrasts: the rich red of winding roads, the brilliant emerald of the uplands and meadows, the glowing sapphire of the encircling sea." Each year, more and more people from other places journey to our Island to see themselves, increasing our success as a tourist destination. In the 1995 season, 778,000 people visited Prince Edward Island, a record number. Tourism receipts approached 178 million dollars, an all-time high and a 13 percent increase over the previous year. Traditional tourism businesses, most small in size, employed upwards of 17,000 Islanders on a full and part-time basis, including many students, and generated a payroll of almost 55 million dollars. With the completion of the fixed link in 1997, additional increases in these figures are expected. Madam Speaker, this is good news. It holds promise for growth and jobs in every part of Prince Edward Island--as well as the cultural and social benefits that flow from hosting and getting to know people from elsewhere in Canada and throughout the world. We must ensure, however, that in the midst of rapid growth and development we remain "the Island", with all of the traditions and values that we and our visitors hold dear. My Government is working closely with the tourism industry, Madam Speaker, to ensure that we maintain these qualities. Initiatives designed to attract more visitors during the non-peak season are also underway. Strategic development such as the Links at Crowbush Cove Golf Course, recently named the Best New Course in Canada, and a Province-wide trail system have also been undertaken. In Charlottetown and Summerside, exciting new waterfront development and facilities highlight our proud contributions to the history and culture of Canada, for the enjoyment of all Islanders as well as our visitors. Events such as the opening of Confederation Landing Commemorative Park on Charlottetown's waterfront last summer, highlighted by the first visit of HMCS Charlottetown to its namesake city, and the recent highly successful East Coast Music Awards, are making a growing contribution to the tourism industry. These events attest to the tremendous hospitality and spirit of voluntarism of the many Islanders who make these events a reality. Over the coming year additional events will be hosted, including the annual meeting of the International Assembly of French-Speaking Parliamentarians--North America Section this summer. During this meeting the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island will be officially sworn in as an associate member of the International Assembly. Madam Speaker, earlier I spoke of the tremendous success that we have enjoyed with our primary products, and of the great advances that we have made in the processing of potatoes in particular. This success, and the dramatic success of our tourism industry, depend ultimately on one precious and finite resource--our land. PRESERVING OUR LAND RESOURCES In the last Session of this House, significant amendments designed to strengthen the Lands Protection Act were made. Loopholes were closed and fines for non-compliance were substantially increased. Over the coming year, My Government will continue to monitor land ownership within the Province and will move decisively to ensure that the provisions of the Lands Protection Act are respected. It is vitally important to ensure that Island land remains a resource for Islanders. But this is not enough. We must also, as a society, take steps to ensure that we sustain and protect the quality of our land. Madam Speaker, if our Province is to continue to prosper, we must identify strategies which maintain and improve our land base's capacity to generate wealth. We must also find ways to minimize negative impacts on human health and the environment and reduce conflicts between resource land use and other land uses. To accomplish these ends, during this Session My Government will appoint a private sector Roundtable on Resource Land Use and Stewardship. Mr. Elmer MacDonald of Augustine Cove, a highly respected member of the farming community and a strong supporter of sustainable land use practices, will lead the Roundtable in preparing a Resource Land Use Strategy for Prince Edward Island. Mr. MacDonald is here today; I would invite you to join me in recognizing him. Madam Speaker, our waterways and wetlands are also an essential part of our natural resources, supporting fish and wildlife habitat and a diverse range of recreational opportunities for Islanders and visitors. Over the past four years, many community-based groups have been active in the restoration and enhancement of this resource. This Session, My Government will announce the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program to continue that impressive tradition of watershed enhancement. There is an ancient aboriginal saying that our lands and waters are not inherited from our forefathers; they are borrowed from our children. Our natural resources are precious gifts, Madam Speaker, and My Government is committed to their preservation and protection. CREATING NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN EDUCATION Madam Speaker, to ensure our children's future we must do more than preserve and protect the natural resources which we are borrowing from them. Although critically important, our natural resources have never been and will not be our only source of wealth. Our core wealth has been and will continue to be our people. Throughout our history, the knowledge, ingenuity and skills of Islanders have allowed us to unlock the wealth contained in our resources. The future holds even wider opportunities, as our economy diversifies and expands into value-added and knowledge-based industries. Further action is needed if we are to participate in and develop these opportunities of the future. Our children are growing up in a world where boundaries are less and less relevant. Their education must equip them to take part in an increasingly complex, technological, and global society. To achieve this, and to attain a high-quality curriculum, the Atlantic Provinces are pooling their resources and expertise to develop a joint curriculum in the areas of Math, Language Arts, and Science. Prince Edward Island has played a leadership role in several areas of this work, and this leadership is now showing results. New curriculum proposals have recently been circulated to teachers and parents for review. Their comments will help to ensure that the curriculum, while common to the Atlantic Provinces, reflects and strengthens Prince Edward Island's values and priorities. Madam Speaker, My Government has placed priority not only on what our children learn, but also on how they learn. Rapid advances in computers and information technology are opening doors to boundless information, knowledge, and relationships with students and educators worldwide. Moreover, a knowledge of computers is vital to success in the labour market and economy of the future. To maximize these opportunities, My Government has placed priority on a three-year program to enhance information technology. In the past three years, over 600 computers have been installed in Island schools. Today, all Island students in grades one to nine have access to modern computer equipment and provincially licensed software. In the coming year, emphasis will be placed on enhancing computer technology in the high schools, and establishing our school libraries as access points to the information highway. Madam Speaker, although these new developments hold great promise for our future, we must not neglect the more practical issues of today. Our children must be assured of a safe and comfortable environment in which to learn. During the past year, almost two million dollars have been invested in upgrading or replacing air handling systems and enhancing air quality in six Island schools. Further investments are planned for the coming year. As well, in this Session My Government will introduce the School Capital Repair Program to provide funding for necessary capital repairs to our school buildings, to ensure that our investment in those facilities is wisely maintained. These measures are all the more necessary as our schools regain the role they occupied in years gone by--centres for community life and learning. Our schools are becoming even greater resources and assets for the community at large. To recognize this trend, and to assist and encourage parental involvement in their children's education, My Government has promoted the establishment of advisory councils in every one of the Province's schools during the past year. Work will continue over the coming years to build stronger partnerships between schools and their communities throughout the Province. Madam Speaker, just as our elementary and secondary schools are adapting to meet the needs of the future, so too are our post-secondary institutions. Both institutions are entering their second quarter century under new leadership, and with the continued goal of providing Islanders with high-quality, relevant higher learning opportunities. In support of this goal, they are working to build partnerships with each other, with Island communities and businesses, and with groups and organizations outside the Province. Madam Speaker, My Government's priority on education extends beyond our children and youth to include all Islanders. Members of the labour force must be given greater opportunities to upgrade and renew their skills, both to safeguard their own future, and to provide the skilled workforce essential to economic growth. More broadly, all Islanders must be given greater opportunities to take part in life-long learning, as the basis of personal growth and social well-being. In the past, many Islanders have been unable, for family or financial reasons, to leave their communities and move elsewhere to obtain training. Today and tomorrow, information technology is opening up new opportunities, bringing the training to Islanders, while it sustains and strengthens their communities. My Government is working in partnership with Holland College and communities to realize these opportunities and provide adult Islanders with a greater range of educational and training options. MAINTAINING HIGH-QUALITY HOSPITAL AND HEALTH CARE SERVICES Madam Speaker, while Prince Edward Island has achieved remarkable success over the past three years, particularly in eliminating our deficit and in creating jobs, this success is not an end in itself. Ultimately, deficits are eliminated and jobs are created so that government has the revenue to sustain services that help to provide a better life and a better future for Islanders--services like health care. During the past two years, a great deal of progress has been made in making the health care system more financially sustainable and community-based. Many challenges have been faced, and many accomplishments have been recorded, along the way. Unlike the experience of most provinces and jurisdictions throughout the industrialized world, My Government has restructured the delivery of health care without closing health care facilities and without laying off large numbers of valuable health care providers. The health care budget has been maintained at a significant level: last year, Government spent over 275 million dollars on health and social services. If the 120 million dollars spent on interest on the provincial debt is factored out, health and social services accounted for fully 40 per cent of My Government's spending over the past 12 months. Consultations with Islanders in communities across the Province have helped My Government to take a broader view of health and well-being. Although individual lifestyle behaviours have a major impact on health, Islanders have indicated that their health and well-being depends on many other factors as well. Among these factors are the economic security and sense of self- worth that comes with a job; a clean and safe environment; freedom from violence and fear inside and outside the home; caring, close-knit communities; and opportunities to learn. I have talked about My Government's record on increasing job and learning opportunities. Shortly I will show that My Government is taking action on these other priorities as well. Progress on these factors will help to improve health and well-being over the long term. Nevertheless, births, deaths, accidents, and illness will continue to be an inevitable part of life. To meet those needs, Islanders must have access to modern, high-quality acute and chronic care facilities and services throughout Prince Edward Island and outside the Province. My Government is committed to providing these services; as long as My Government remains in office no Islands Hospitals will be closed. My Government is committed to Island hospitals, and recognizes that these facilities and their valuable staff must have modern equipment. Advances in medical technology bring hope to Islanders and their families--hope of greater well-being, improved safety, restoration of heath, even hope of life itself. Over the years, Islanders have consistently shown tremendous generosity to hospital equipment campaigns. In spite of this selfless legacy, however, important equipment needs remain. As such, during this Session, My Government will announce the Medical Equipment Replacement Program to assist in replacing needed medical equipment in Island hospitals. Not only do Islanders need modern equipment in their own hospitals--in the most serious cases they also require rapid access to the most advanced medical care in the region. In those cases, Madam Speaker, the quality and speed of emergency transportation can mean the difference between life and death. Over the coming year, My Government will respond to this need by establishing an air ambulance service for Prince Edward Island. Madam Speaker, many Islanders have made the case for an air ambulance service, including Bill MacLean of Wilmot Valley, whose son Trevor was killed in a tragic snowmobile accident in January of last year. Mr. MacLean and his wife Myra and Trevor's widow Michelle are with us today; please join me in recognizing them. Providing quality health care for all Islanders remains a central priority of My Government. When the Provincial Treasurer stands in this House to deliver the Budget address, that commitment will, once again, be reinforced. RESPECTING OUR SENIORS Madam Speaker, as we seek to build a better future in a changing world, we must also look to our senior citizens. Older Islanders are our heritage, our link to the past. They are also the creators of the society and culture which we are proud to live in today and a key part of our future. Over the next several months, My Government will work in concert with Island seniors and their families to develop the Seniors' Independence Program. This Program will acknowledge and complement the dedicated efforts of family, friends, and neighbours who provide care and support to their elders. It will recognize that many seniors, while needing supports in some areas, have a capacity and a desire to contribute to their society in other areas. Through greater emphasis on our interdependence, this Program will promote the well-being not only of Island seniors, but also of Island families, children, and youth. PROTECTING THE VULNERABLE Madam Speaker, as my predecessor remarked one year ago on this same occasion, the family is our most enduring and sacred institution. As a society, we must do all that we can to support and strengthen the family. In particular, we must ensure protection and support for the most vulnerable among us. Last fall, a five-year strategy to support victims of family violence and to offer violence prevention programs was announced by My Government. The strategy includes additional funding for Transition House Association, increased staffing, intensive public education, and various training programs. A Premier's Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention was also established and is currently chaired by the Honourable Marion Reid. The Committee is taking stock of the services now in place, and will recommend future directions and priorities to help reduce family violence. Mrs. Reid is here today; I would ask you to join me in welcoming this distinguished Islander back to this Assembly. Madam Speaker, in this Session, My Government will reinforce its commitment to preventing family violence by introducing the Victims of Family Violence Act. In the past, victims, in order to escape continuing violence, have often been forced to leave the family home while the abuser remains. This Act will provide immediate protection for many victims of family violence, by enabling them to remain in their homes with their children, while the abuser is required to leave and stay away. MAKING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER Madam Speaker, a sense of safety and security is fundamental to our personal and social well- being. The threat of fire, disaster, and crime is a source of concern to every one of us. One of government's core responsibilities is to protect society against those threats. During the coming year, My Government will establish a new Office of Public Safety, combining the functions of the Emergency Measures Office and the Fire Marshall's Office, to provide a more effective, integrated, and efficient response to fires and other public emergencies. My Government will also establish a Province-wide 911 emergency number system, offering Islanders faster, more coordinated access to help when needed. In the coming year, My Government will also pay tribute to the courage and dedication of Prince Edward Island's volunteer firefighters, who give selflessly of their time, and risk their lives, for the good of their community. Firefighters like Brad Kennedy of the Sherwood Fire Department, who last year rescued two Islanders from burning buildings. I would invite you to join me in recognizing him. Over 700 firefighters will receive recognition for five years, ten years, fifteen years, and twenty or more years of volunteer service to their communities. This recognition is meant to express the thanks of all Islanders who benefit from the bravery and commitment of our firefighters. Madam Speaker, we are fortunate to live in a society with very low levels of crime, and in particular, the lowest levels of violent crime in Canada. Nonetheless, the public is increasingly concerned about crime, particularly crime involving youth, family violence, and impaired driving. During the past year, My Government has undertaken a number of measures to reduce these and other social ills, including the Family Violence Prevention Strategy, various programs for youth including the Child and Youth Initiative Fund, and a program aimed at repeat impaired drivers. These and other initiatives will be further developed in the coming year. If Islanders are to continue to live in safe communities, they must be served by policing, correctional, and judicial services which are timely, responsive, and efficient. Like all other parts of government, the resources of the justice system must be directed to those areas and activities where they can have the most impact. Last year, My Government conducted a review to identify how those goals could best be achieved. This work included a survey of Islanders' views and concerns about crime and public safety. During the coming year, My Government will introduce measures to increase the effectiveness, efficiency, and responsiveness of our policing, judicial, and correctional services. As one aspect, Madam Speaker, we will take action to promote public trust in the fairness and integrity of the Province's judiciary. My Government will become a partner with its sister provinces in the establishment of a regional judicial council. Through a regional approach, we will conserve public funds while achieving greater consistency and objectivity in the handling of public complaints against Provincial Court judges. PROVIDING OPEN, ETHICAL, RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT Across the spectrum of public activity, the public is seeking more open, responsive, and accountable government. My Government has taken many measures to provide the public with a greater voice in decisions, and to make the process of government more open and transparent. These measures include establishing school advisory councils, placing decisions for health and community services in the hands of community boards, conducting pre-Budget consultations, and seeking Islanders' views on many other areas of government policy. Measures such as these are essential to ensure the participation of Islanders in determining their future. In the coming year, additional initiatives will be undertaken. To assist in making government more open and accessible to francophone Islanders, My Government will implement a new French Language Services Policy. Not only will the Policy improve services to francophone Islanders across the Province; it will also be an expression of support for Canada's two official languages, and of faith in our country. Action will also be taken to maintain and increase public trust and confidence in elected officials and government employees. In particular, in this Session My Government will introduce a resolution to review the current Conflict of Interest Act and to consider an appropriate code of conduct for Members of the Legislative Assembly. Conflict of interest guidelines for the Civil Service will also be implemented. Public trust and confidence in government are also increased when all citizens are given the opportunity to obtain access to information which influences government decision-making. At the same time, certain restrictions to access are appropriate, especially restrictions to preserve the privacy of other citizens. Two years ago My Government established a Special Legislative Committee to consider the desirability of legislation which would permit the public to gain access to government documents. This Session, My Government will act on the Committee's Recommendations and introduce the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. OUR LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM Madam Speaker, in addition to the measures already mentioned, a number of legislative proposals will be brought forward for the consideration of all Members. - a new Elections Act; - a new Consent to Treatment and Health Care Directives Act; - a new Vital Statistics Act; As well as amendments: - The Archives Act; - The Legislative Assembly Act; and - the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The public accounts and reports of the various departments and agencies of My Government for the year ending March 31, 1995 will be tabled. The estimates of revenue and expenditure for the fiscal year which begins April 1, 1996 will be presented for your consideration. A PROUD AND CONFIDENT FUTURE Madam Speaker, Members of the Legislative Assembly, Fellow Islanders: We have come a long way in this Province in a few short years. We have succeeded because we set and achieved clear priorities--deficit reduction, economic development, education; because we worked together, because we responded to challenge and overcame. Now, as the millennium draws to a close, we stand on the threshold of a new day. To be sure, new challenges will continue to arise, but we have never been in a better position to overcome those challenges. Our books are balanced. More and more Islanders are working. Our major industries continue to experience success. Our land base is being protected. Our social and health care system is being strengthened. Education is giving our children and their families the tools to take charge of their future. The highest reward for our toil, however, lies not in what we receive from it, but in what we become by it. With success comes a feeling of confidence, a sense that we can effect change, a realization, Madam Speaker, that our collective action determines our destiny. In the coming days, we must rededicate ourselves to this beautiful Province. We must work together and continue to build upon our success. We must strive to ensure that our children and grandchildren inherit a Province of opportunity, a place they, too, will be proud to call "home". To be sure, work remains to be done, but we are making progress and, with continued determination, we will continue to succeed. I pray that Divine Providence will continue to bless our Province and its people, and guide this Assembly in its deliberations in 1996.