N.S. NDP Demands Accountability Over Lobbyist Registry Reform

UPDATE: In a bold move today, N.S. NDP Leader Claudia Chender announced plans to overhaul the province’s lobbyist registry, demanding greater government accountability amid concerns over “shady decisions” by Premier Tim Houston‘s administration. Chender made her remarks during a press conference at Province House on October 19, 2023, highlighting urgent issues that affect everyday Nova Scotians.

“This government is playing fast and loose with Nova Scotians,” Chender declared, emphasizing the need for transparency in government dealings. She pointed to multiple controversial contracts, including untendered agreements with Sobeys and Enterprise Canada, raising alarms about possible favoritism and lack of oversight.

Chender’s call for reform is particularly pressing as she accuses the Houston government of failing to protect the interests of all Nova Scotians, instead prioritizing those with connections to the ruling party. Notably, she referenced concerns about a proposed bylaw in Halifax Regional Municipality that could facilitate infilling at Dartmouth Cove, a project linked to friends of the premier.

“We have a lobbyist registry right now, but really in name only,” Chender stated, urging for a system that holds decision-makers accountable for how public funds are managed. “Nova Scotians deserve to know who is influencing the government spending their money.”

In response to these issues, Chender announced the appointment of Paul Wozney, MLA for Sackville-Cobequid, as the party’s new ethics and accountability critic. This position aims to maintain scrutiny on government spending and highlight any questionable practices. Wozney expressed concern over what he described as “Trump-style politics” that overwhelm the public with information, complicating the monitoring of government activities.

“The Houston government was elected on mandates to fix health care and address housing and affordability concerns,” Wozney explained. “However, we have seen a concerning shift towards natural resource development that the public did not have a say in.”

Chender’s accusations come at a critical time when trust in government decisions is paramount. The NDP’s push for reform has been fueled by a series of controversial actions by the Houston government, which has been criticized for its lack of transparency and accountability.

“You don’t defend people from Trump by being like him,” Wozney added, reinforcing the call for a more responsible governance approach.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Premier Houston responded, asserting that the government welcomes ideas from all political backgrounds and is committed to accountability. “That’s a key reason why two former Liberal MLAs joined our caucus,” the statement read.

As the NDP ramps up scrutiny on government practices, the public is urged to stay informed about these developments. The proposed changes to the lobbyist registry could reshape how Nova Scotians engage with their government and hold it accountable for its actions.

This situation is developing, and further updates are expected as the NDP pushes for reforms that could significantly impact governance in Nova Scotia.

Stay tuned for more breaking news on this story and how it affects you and your community.