Province Législature Session Type de discours Date du discours Locuteur Fonction du locuteur Parti politique Nouveau-Brunswick 46e 2e Discours du trône 4 mars 1969 M. Wallace Samuel Bird Lieutenant-Gouverneur PL It is a pleasure for me to address you today in my capacity as Her Majesty's representative as you commence your exacting duties of the second session of the 46th Legislature of the province of New Brunswick. Since last I had the opportunity to address you I had the sad duty of representing Her Majesty at the funeral of my distinguished predecessor in this office, the Hon. John Babbitt McNair. During his life, he demonstrated the outstanding qualities of leadership, integrity and high purpose that were recognized by all citizens of our province. We know the sad loss felt by his gracious wife and family. This ceremony today reminds us of the stability of the rule of law in our nation and province, flowing as it does from the Crown, and the vital and democratic institutions and conventions which are of such magnitude in our everyday lives. We take this occasion to reaffirm our allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen, whose devoted service to Canada contributes to orderly functioning of our democratic parliamentary system. We also take this occasion today to reaffirm our faith in the future of Canada, its peoples and its promise as a land providing avenues for the fullest development of the individual in freedom, in peace and in harmony. In recent weeks, Canadians have had an opportunity to witness a reaffirmation of this faith in the future of our nation through the deliberations of the Premiers and Prime Ministers of Canada at the Constitutional Conference held in Ottawa in February. New and positive approaches were made in the difficult and complex problems involving constitutional reform. The establishment of continuing committees charged with careful study of specific subjects leading to necessary revision of our constitution is of considerable importance. At the conference, my government reaffirmed that it is vitally concerned with the achievement of economic, linguistic and cultural equality of opportunity in our country. My government supports the efforts of the government of Canada to entrench in the constitution those rights vital to the freedom and well-being of all Canadians and to provide for national linguistic opportunities in Canada through federal legislation. The economy of New Brunswick during the past 12 months continued to expand. The gross provincial product increased by 7.2 per cent, to a record S 1.3 billion. This encouraging growth rate is expected to continue in the coming year. My government takes the view that long-term, steady economic growth in New Brunswick, shared by all, can be achieved through concentration on three principal objectives. First, the necessity for the government of Canada to pay unique attention to the growth requirements of the less developed areas of Canada under the new federal Department of Regional Economic Expansion. Second, there must be continued orderly and detailed planning of our development efforts. Third, priorities must be established. My government's principal priority is education, together with industrial development and elimination of poverty while the achievement of one priority will assist the achievement of others policies and programs must be designed for each in particular. My government will continue to provide these policies and programs. Collectively, these three approaches will, with orderly planning and continued federal- provincial cooperation, ensure that the New Brunswick economic future is a bright one. Improved transportation facilities in the broadest sense are required in the Atlantic Provinces. My government is cooperating with the other Atlantic Provinces in working to develop approaches toward a regional transportation policy. The findings of the Atlantic Provinces Transportation Task Force involved will be made known in the near future. The construction of a modern ferry to ply between Saint John and Digby will result in improved facilities for the Bay of Fundy service. In addition construction of the vessel will mean increased employment in the shipbuilding industry. The government will continue its efforts to promote improved transportation standards in our region. A transportation branch will be established in the Department of Economic Growth, in recognition of the vital importance of this element in our industrial economy. In the past year, and in conjunction with other government departments and many local manufacturers, the Department of Economic Growth helped develop the modular school construction system which is having the result of considerably increasing the New Brunswick product in new schools. The new system has attracted considerable interest in the United States and in the West Indies, and could result in increased exports of New Brunswick materials abroad. Export opportunities will actively be pursued through the consortium approach whereby a complete development package made up of New Brunswick skills and products will be presented to prospective buyers. Continued encouragement will be given to the development of natural resources as source material for new and secondary industries within the province. My government, through the New Brunswick Development Corporation, last year commissioned a feasibility study on the development of deep-water port facilities in New Brunswick. As part of the government's long range planning, studies will be completed soon on the feasibility of a multiple industry complex, a specially coordinated development of interrelated industry. The study has been assisted by a Government of Canada grant covering half its cost. Promotion of the Atlantic Provinces region will continue this year through participation at trade shows and exhibitions in the United States. Provincial government efforts at the Springfield Trade Exhibition last year resulted in substantial export sales of New Brunswick products. In addition, there will be participation in trade reconnaissance missions to Britain, Europe and the Caribbean. There will be continued liaison with the Trade Commissioners Service of the Government of Canada in promotion of New Brunswick products abroad. My government will present legislation for your approval consistent with the White Paper on Language Equality and Opportunity presented to members of the Legislature in December of last year. The objective of my government is to ensure that no New Brunswicker will find himself at a linguistic disadvantage in participating in the public life of our province. My government's aim, as stated in its White Paper, is to create a climate in which it will be possible to foster a genuine partnership of all who speak either principal language and participate in either culture. It is the intention of my government to ensure that no New Brunswicker should be deprived of his rights. It is beyond human power to legislate good will and my government feels that New Brunswick is and must continue to be a mirror of the Canadian Confederation. My government will continue to upgrade educational opportunities in the province. School construction this year will continue at a high level. New senior high schools are under construction at Sirnonds, Tracadie, Shippegan and Shediac. Contracts for new high schools have been awarded in Campbellton Buctouche and Dalhousie. At Millidgeville, the first phase of the high school is completed, and the second phase is expected to be completed this month. Elementary schools are under construction at Val D'Amour, Port Elgin, St. Anselme, St. Joseph and St. Stephen, and tenders have been awarded for component-built elementary schools at Rogersville, Campbellton and Belleisle. My government accepts the principles put forward by the New Brunswick Higher Education Commission in its report entitled "Investing in the Future: A Programme for Government Assistance to Universities, technical Schools and their Students." For the academic year 1971-72, New Brunswick government assistance to universities will have risen to approximately $30 million a year. The government intends to move ahead faster with development of technical schools, with a target enrolment of 3,700 by 1975-76. My government intends to increase the amount of financial assistance which is available to help the needy high school graduate to proceed to the university college or technical institute of his choice. You will be asked to approve amendments to the Trade Schools Act and the Schools Act. The utilization of our forest resources during 1968 was equal to the level of the previous year. After a period of softness for pulp and paper products in the world market, it is apparent that we are now entering a period of expansion in utilization of our forests. Increasing demand for wood fibre means even greater responsibility on the part of government to cooperate with industry in the protection and management of the resources. The aim of my government is that of maximum multiple use consistent with sound conservation practices. Studies are now under way, under the guidance of the Minister of Natural Resources, that will include a complete re-examination and revision of all aspects of forest policy to provide a more suitable environment for the development of the forest sector of the economy. Surveys conducted last fall indicate that, as a result of the very dry and warm weather conditions during 1968, we are faced with a severe infestation of spruce budworm in southern and central New Brunswick, covering from two and one-half to three million acres. It will be essential to continue control measures in the coming year. During the past year, the government's reforestation program was expanded. Some two million softwood seedlings were planted on burned and cut-over lands. The figure is expected to rise to five million annually by 1975. Metallic mineral production remained steady in 1968 and continued to contribute substantially to the economy. My government will continue to expand the policy of encouragement and persuasion to obtain maximum exploitation of our mineral wealth. The $11 million expansion at Heath Steele in Northumberland County is an indication of the vigor of the metallic minerals industry. At the first session of this Legislature, a framework for action with respect to the Grand Lake coal fields was approved. Notwithstanding the world-wide problems in the coal industry, additional declines in markets for eastern coal and increasing costs of production, substantial progress has been made. Through the Grand Lake Development Corporation, measures have been implemented to provide immediate employment opportunities, and long-term programs to permit the Grand Lake community to develop into a viable economic unit being formulated. A multimillion-dollar charcoal plant is now under construction in an industrial development area in the Minto region and when it opens later this year will employ approximately 70 people. Prospects are excellent for additional new industry to locate in the Grand Lake area. You will be asked to approve legislation affecting the coal mining industry in New Brunswick. My government recognizes that New Brunswick shares the North America-wide problem of pollution. Public support of my government in its efforts of pollution abatement is appreciated. Public awareness of the problems involved and a desire to preserve and enhance our environment in a period of increasing industrial expansion is a vital factor in continuing efforts in pollution control. Recent agreements negotiated by the government and decisions by municipalities and industry are resulting in increased activity in the development of pollution control facilities throughout the province. A survey of the water resources of New Brunswick, sponsored by the Atlantic Development Board, will be available this summer and the results will provide a basis for long-range water management programs. In anticipating the conclusion of the survey, my government is discussing with the government of Canada the establishment of a comprehensive river basin plan for the St. John and St. Croix River systems. You will be asked to amend the Water Act to provide a framework for implementing recommendations for the management of this important resource. In the field of fish and wildlife management, my government intends to continue its studies of our major game species, with emphasis on big game. The zone system established for deer hunting last year proved most useful in game management and will be continued. My government will place additional emphasis on the development of tourism. Significant progress was made during the past year, with a 15 per cent increase in the number of visitors coming to New Brunswick. My government is determined to achieve greater growth in the tourist sector of the economy and, to attain this objective, has established a branch of travel and tourist development incorporating and expanding the role of the New Brunswick Travel Bureau. In addition to its advertising and information functions, the new branch will conduct research, develop new programs and techniques and provide improved lines of communication between all concerned in shaping the future of the economically important industry of tourism. Close to $10 million have been expended in New Brunswick under ARDA programs administered by the Department of Agriculture. The farm adjustment program which started in July 1966, designed to assist farmers in establishing more economic farm units, is of considerable importance to the agricultural industry. The program is also providing loans for the purchase of farms, livestock and machinery, and the leasing of land. Commercial marketing of hogs showed an increase of some 40 per cent. During the year, assistance was extended to a new potato storing, washing and grading complex which was established by the Evangeline Co-operative in the Drummond area of Victoria County. The purpose was to increase and encourage the orderly marketing of New Brunswick quality potatoes in the larger central Canadian centres. The potato industry now is considering plans for improved marketing methods and is working to achieve better quality control. Assistance was provided in the construction of a new dairy plant in southern New Brunswick for the purpose of manufacturing butter, cheese, milk powder and Ice cream. The dry season during the past year made it possible for farmers in all areas of the province to make maximum use of land improvement policies, including open ditching, tile drainage and land-clearing programs. Despite marketing problems which disrupted some sectors of the fishing industry in the Atlantic Provinces, New Brunswick fisheries enjoyed record catches and sales in 1968. A good part of the expansion took place in the exploitation of new fisheries with the cooperation and encouragement of the provincial Department of Fisheries. The major species involved in the expansion were herring, scallops, Atlantic Queen crab, pink shrimps and tuna. Four new shrimp plants were built in the southern part of the province, and nine lobster plants located in northern and eastern counties diversified into crab and scallop processing. Six additional crab and shrimp processing plants are now under construction. A large herring meal and oil plant is being built and another is doubling its present capacity, involving millions of dollars in new capital investment. Three steel trawler-seiners are now under construction at the Saint John shipyard for herring fishermen, and contracts for two larger vessels will be announced shortly. Funds from the Fishermen's Loan Board are being made available for the larger units to enter into the fast expanding herring fishery. The Department of Fisheries will continue its successful research and development programs, in cooperation with fishermen, fish processors and other federal and provincial agencies. The Fisheries School is being expanded and is providing important technological training for our fishermen. You will be asked to approve legislation providing for optimum use of Irish moss harvested by inshore fishermen. You will be asked to approve legislation relating to a new Provincial Loans Act. The existing Act was approved in 1909. The new Act will relate to present-day financial conditions and practices. Concern over rising costs of health and welfare services has become a matter of study by the government of Canada, in cooperation with the provincial governments. It is hoped that the outcome of these studies will be available shortly and will lead to more efficient methods of providing essential services, while at the same time improving cost control methods. The concern of the government of Canada is shared by my government, which is examining ways in which costs can be more effectively kept in check, while at the same time ensuring that no one goes without needed services. Integration of the health and welfare departments is proceeding satisfactorily, and reviews are now being carried out concerning increased coordination. My government is giving careful consideration to the recommendations of the Mental Health Services Study Committee, completed last year. Plans have been developed to implement a number of recommendations of this committee. You will be asked to approve a new Mental Health Act. My government has undertaken a study of nursing homes and other services for the aged and chronically ill, because of its concern relating to standards and distribution of nursing homes. My government is concerned with the need for a legal aid system, and studies are continuing with a view to the formation and implementation of such a system for the province. In the interim period, you will be asked to approve amendments to the Poor Prisoners Defence Act to extend its provisions to a number of offences not now covered. It is recognized that the proposed legislation will not provide an adequate legal aid system, but it should have the effect of meeting the more pressing needs. My government is currently in the process of examining the most feasible methods for the revision of the provincial statutes. The aim is a revision in fact as opposed to a mere consolidation. It is expected that this will expedite translation as well. You will he asked to approve legislation in relation to both the magistrate’s courts and the county courts. Plans are progressing for New Brunswick's new national park in Kent County. The park will add significantly to our recreational resources in the province and will also provide many new employment opportunities. The construction program of the New Brunswick Electric Power Commission continues at a record pace. During the past year, the first three units of the Mactaquac generating station were put into operation. In the forthcoming year, the first 100,000 kilowatt unit at the new thermal generating station at Dalhousie is scheduled to commence operation. In addition, a new diesel generating station will be completed on Grand Manan Island Additions to and strengthening of the high voltage transmission lines, terminal stations and substation system will continue. Important negotiations are taking place with the power systems in Quebec and New England relating to agreements for interconnection of facilities. You will be asked to approve amendments in the field of labour legislation. Approval will be sought for amendments to the Industrial Safety Act, the Vacation Pay Act, the Minimum Wage Act, the Apprenticeship Act and the Tradesmen's Qualification Act. The Department of Labour in its continuing study of labour-management relations has established a labour-management committee to investigate ways and means of improving relations within our industrial economy. You will also be asked to approve amendments to the Human Rights Act to provide against discrimination in housing. My government will continue to pursue a balanced program to provide a modern highway system for our province. The construction of the Trans-Canada Highway will be completed this year with the opening of a new bridge at Florenceville and the paving of the highway from Florenceville to Andover. A planned program of improvements to substandard sections of the Trans-Canada Highway will be continued. The paving of the Hampton By-pass will complete the construction of a modern highway from Saint John to Sussex. Construction will continue on Route N° I between Waweig and Bocabec. This is the last link in a modern highway between St. Stephen and Saint John. My government will continue to work in close cooperation with the municipalities in solving the pressing problems of urban transportation. Work will continue on the Mill Street Viaduct in Saint John and will be completed on the Petitcodiac Causeway at Moncton. Detailed planning of future facilities will continue with other municipalities. The construction of dust-free rural highways will continue. A program to improve the safety of our highways will be vigorously pursued through the reconstruction of dangerous sections and a marked increase in the quantity and quality of highway signs. A new, modern sign shop has been constructed in Nashwaaksis and is now in full operation. My government has defined the most pressing priority in highway transportation to be the construction of a modern highway from Moncton to Campbellton. The location and design of this highway will be the principal activity of our highway planning group. My government expects that the current discussions that are under way with the government of Canada will result in the early and successful conclusion of a joint agreement that will permit a substantial start on the construction of this important highway. A recent agreement between my government and the government of Canada provides for the establishment of a New Brunswick New Start Corporation. The establishment of the corporation, with headquarters in Kent County, will devote its efforts to experimental research in human resource development with the object of increasing prosperity and economic growth. My government will increase its efforts in highway safety in the coming year. Additional staff will be required for law enforcement and compulsory inspection. Closer controls will be instituted in the motor carrier field. Additional safety information material will be made available and efforts to promote highway safety will be made through the media of television and radio The provision for the current year of reflectorized license plates is expected to be a factor in the reduction of accidents. Serious consideration is being given to more adequate safety measures for snowmobiles. The need for more adequate housing is a continuing problem in every province and municipality in Canada. My government is developing new policy to encourage new housing developments and you will be asked to approve legislation providing for the condominium system in New Brunswick. This will permit individual ownership of an apartment or flat in a multiple dwelling unit. There have been major developments in housing in New Brunswick during the past years. Housing starts are up over the previous year. The total number initiated by the New Brunswick Housing Corporation in 1968 was 280, or about 10 per cent of total housing starts of all types in the province. Two major family rental housing projects, comprising 104 and 96 units respectively, are under construction in Campbellton and Saint John Municipalities in New Brunswick will receive additional grants of approximately $1 million this year from the province. You will be asked to approve amendments to several Acts relating to municipal affairs. The Department of Youth is continuing its important role through its programs of guidance and counselling, student aid, sports and recreation. The Young Voyageur Program will be continued this year and New Brunswick will be host to eight student tours from other provinces. Eight tours made up of Grade XI students from schools throughout New Brunswick will visit other parts of Canada in the student exchange program. Preparations are nearing completion for the selection and training of the New Brunswick contingent in the Canada Summer Games to be held at Halifax-Dartmouth in August. The number of students receiving Canada Student Loans in New Brunswick increased last year by 11 per cent to 6,233, for total loans of $4,800,000. The public accounts for the fiscal period ending the 31st day of March 1968, a statement of the estimated revenues and expenditures for the current fiscal year and the estimates for the coming fiscal year will also be placed before you. You will be asked to approve additional measures for the benefit of our province. I am confident, as I leave you now to your deliberations and exacting responsibilities that you will work together for the benefit and advantage of all the people of our beloved province. May Divine Providence guide you in your deliberations.