This site always puzzled me. This picture was taken last Satuday. The parking lot is empty and Bernard still demands that his parking spot stays free! Come on???? Give me a break!!!!
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
BERNARD LORD RULES!!!!
This site always puzzled me. This picture was taken last Satuday. The parking lot is empty and Bernard still demands that his parking spot stays free! Come on???? Give me a break!!!!
QUESTION PERIOD IN THE NEW BRUNSWICK LEGISLATURE!!!! < TUESDAY >
ORAL QUESTIONS 3 QUESTIONS ORALES
December 13, 2005 Not finalized / Non finalisé le 13 décembre 2005
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Child Protection
Mr. S. Graham: We are all proud to be New Brunswickers here in this Chamber, and I think when we enter into the public service, we should put aside partisan politics and work to represent all New Brunswickers. That is why I have to say it is a concern when we see a headline in a national newspaper, the Globe and Mail, that reads “Abuse cases scream for advocates: New Brunswick still hasn’t acted despite years of complaints and a new law”.
It is these types of headlines that reinforce the “can’t-do” attitude here in New Brunswick. That is why today, we have an opportunity to debate an important motion to put in place a tangible deadline for the creation of a Child and Youth Advocate Office here in the province of New Brunswick.
My question for the Premier today is this: The amendments that your government is proposing are looking to limit the scope and responsibilities of the Child and Youth Advocate as adopted in the law that has already been passed in this House. My question to you, Mr. Premier, is, Why would you want to confine the responsibilities of the Child and Youth Advocate to two departments—Public Safety and Family and Community Services?
Hon. Mr. Lord: We are all very proud to be New Brunswickers. There are other headlines out there that are very positive about New Brunswick, but I know that every time those come out, the opposition Liberals are very disappointed. They like days when things go badly for New Brunswick, because they think it makes them look better. We like days when things go well for New Brunswick—when New Brunswick has record low unemployment, when we are leading the country in investments in health care, when we are leading in reducing the number of people on social assistance.
Our government is committed to helping the families and children of this province, and there is more than one way to do that. The most important way to do that is to make sure there is a strong environment for growth in the economy and in jobs. That is what will help children and families the most in the province, and that is what we will continue to do.
Mr. S. Graham: In the rhetorical answer that the Premier has provided today, he has not answered the question. I very clearly asked him a question, and I know the Minister of Justice is going to brief him now.
I am asking him this question very clearly: Mr. Premier, in the amendments that you are proposing, why are you looking to limit the scope of the Child and Youth Advocate’s responsibilities simply to the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Family and Community Services?
Hon. Mr. Lord: We supported the bill that was brought forward by the opposition. When we supported that bill, it was indicated very clearly to the Leader of the Opposition himself, by myself, that the government would, in the upcoming session, make modifications to clarify the scope of the Child and Youth Advocate. That was in the legislation that was tabled last session, which did not pass because it was not brought in for third reading proposed.
It is our intention to appoint a Child and Youth Advocate in 2006. It is our intention to bring in modifications to clarify the scope of the Child and Youth Advocate in this session.
Mr. S. Graham: Again, for the third time, my question to the Premier, explaining the process . . .
I am asking why the government wants to reduce and limit the responsibilities of the Child and Youth Advocate to two departments, the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Family and Community Services. This is the third time. I am sure the Minister of Justice has briefed the Premier fully by now. Please answer the question.
Hon. Mr. Lord: If the Leader of the Opposition wants a full briefing from the Minister of Justice, we can certainly provide that. In the legislation, there is advocacy for individuals, as there is advocacy for the system. What the Leader of the Opposition is referring to is only for individual advocacy.
We want to make sure the scope is the right one for New Brunswick. There are different models in Canada. We are looking at those models, as well, and that is why we want to clarify the scope of the Child and Youth Advocate that we will appoint in 2006.
Mr. S. Graham: The Premier is indicating today that he does not have a sound answer as to why the Child and Youth Advocate, which mirrors the Child and Youth Advocate’s office that was created in Newfoundland as a template and a model for all other jurisdictions to follow . . . Why does this Premier want to limit those responsibilities to two departments pertaining to individuals?
It begs the question, if an individual in New Brunswick is not receiving services that he or she should receive in the Department of Education, the Child and Youth Advocate would be powerless to make recommendations to the government. My question to the Premier is this: Why do you want to limit those powers of responsibility?
Hon. Mr. Lord: There is more than one model of Child and Youth Advocate in the country. In the specific case raised by the Leader of the Opposition, in the case of education, the Child and Youth Advocate, under the legislation that we tabled last year, which is no longer before this House, could still make recommendations with regard to the system in education. There are other means in the education system, as there are other means in the government today, to protect every child. It is
incorrect for the Leader of the Opposition to try to suggest, and to create the perception, that some children are not protected in New Brunswick.
Mr. S. Graham: I am reminded of the Charles Dickens classic entitled A Christmas Carol. When Scrooge was asked to contribute to the relief of the poor at Christmastime, he said: Are there no prisons? Are there no poorhouses? I have to say that it is very fortunate today that Tiny Tim did not come from New Brunswick, because if he were looking for government help, he would likely have
been out of luck if this legislation were passed as the government proposed.
The Premier wants to limit the scope and the responsibilities pertaining to the Department of Health and Wellness. Today, we have many issues pertaining to obesity in New Brunswick. A Child and Youth Advocate could make many recommendations on how to improve the wellness of young children in New Brunswick and on how to prevent obesity, but he could also do it on a specific case, on a needs basis where individuals in New Brunswick may not be receiving the necessary services.
That is where the shortfalls of this legislation exist today.
Mr. Speaker: Question.
Mr. S. Graham: I am asking for the fourth time, because you have not answered the question. What you are saying is that we want to be at the bottom of the pack . . .
Mr. Speaker: Question.
Mr. S. Graham: . . . rather than at the top of the pack. That is not good enough for the children of this province who are at risk.
Hon. Mr. Lord: When the Leader of the Opposition talks about these examples, he is really stretching. When it comes to obesity, it is not the Child and Youth Advocate who will make a difference for the children in the province. Parents can make the biggest difference in obesity in children.
Parents are the number one people responsible for the education and safekeeping and security of their children. I know that the Liberal view on parents is that they are only there to buy beer and popcorn for children and their families, but that is not the view of the government of New Brunswick. The view of the government of New Brunswick is that we are there to support parents in the education of their children and to protect their children. However, that responsibility falls on
the parents, first and foremost.
Mr. S. Graham: I am not going to get into the gutter politics that the Premier wants to play this morning, because I do believe the parents of New Brunswick . . . Today his government is falling far short of the national average that the Canadian Medical Association says we should be entertaining in physical education in our school system. The Canadian Medical Association says we should be averaging 150 minutes per week. Our Francophone system is averaging less than 40 minutes per week, as your own deputy minister stated in the public accounts committee. The
Anglophone system is attaining less than 100 minutes per week. The same Deputy Minister of Education stated this clearly in the public accounts committee.
That is where a Child and Youth Advocate can help move the government in a direction to deal with changes that are necessary to help children who are at risk in New Brunswick. What your government is proposing today is to put it simply on the mandate of two departments.
We are saying that this is wrong. That is what I am asking you. Why do you not adopt a law that will allow the Child and Youth Advocate to review all government departments to better serve the children of New Brunswick?
Hon. Mr. Lord: I am glad the Leader of the Opposition is talking about phys ed classes, keeping in mind that it was the government of which he was a member that cut phys ed classes. That is part of the problem. They do not want to look back to the past, because they say that is the past.
Every once in a while, I hear some of them say: You guys have been there for six and a half years. Stop talking about the years between 1987 and 1999. However, I remember the last day that I was in opposition. Sheldon Lee was talking about Richard Hatfield 12 years after the fact.
The fact is that the opposition, when it was in government, cut phys ed, and it had an impact on our children—absolutely. When they cut the number of medical training spaces, it had an impact on wait times 10 years after the fact. That is why, when the member for Fredericton-Fort Nashwaak today criticizes another 10-year plan, it is because these people do not know what it means to plan ahead.
Mr. S. Graham: I am sure the Premier will have all kinds of time to do his planning in Quebec after Christmas. My question to the Premier today pertains to the issues here in New Brunswick. Very clearly, the Child Death Review Committee has been under the spotlight recently for conducting only partial reviews of a number of child deaths in New Brunswick. You yourself committed to an investigation of why this was occurring. Yesterday, unionized employees in New Brunswick stated that, with respect to the 143 required child protection social workers needed in the province, as
identified by your government’s own report, Children Come First, we are still far short of that benchmark. In fact, only 48 social workers have been hired for child protection services versus the 143 that were needed. There are shortfalls in the system today. That is why we are saying that a Child and Youth Advocate with a clear, broad mandate will be able to protect children at work.
My question to the Premier is this: Can you update us on the review that you were personally undertaking pertaining to the Child Death Review Committee? We hope that you will take into account the recommendation we are making today. This could be a process and a mandate followed under the Child and Youth Advocate’s office. Is this something that you are willing to entertain?
Hon. Mr. Lord: The Leader of the Opposition, with his staff, I am sure, is very good at twisting information and taking statements and creating a different perception. I am not undertaking that review myself. I have asked . . .
(Interjections.)
Hon. Mr. Lord: They can insult us as much as they want, because that is all they have. I did ask the department to review and bring to us the situation in terms of why it is like this. Is it or is it not adequate?
One thing is certain: There are more social workers working in the province for the government of New Brunswick today than there were when we took office.
Anoter thing is sure: During the 12 years that they were in office, the current Ombudsman, who has these responsibilities, is the one who said that the previous government neglected the social side, which included the children of New Brunswick. We have been making significant investments and significant progress. We will continue to work for the families and the children of this province.
Création d’emplois M. Haché : On a appris récemment que l’entreprise canadienne, Research In Motion, allait s’établir en Nouvelle-Écosse, plus particulièrement, à Halifax. J’aimerais vous rappeler que Research In Motion recevra un montant de 19 millions de dollars pour créer 1 250 emplois. Si on veut comparer cela et juxtaposer les faits, on sait que ce gouvernement-ci a accordé 6 millions de dollars à Molson
pour qu’elle vienne s’établir dans la région de Moncton pour quelque 40 emplois seulement.
(Exclamation.)
M. Haché : Si ce sont 20 emplois, c’est encore pire. J’aimerais demander ceci au ministre des Entreprises Nouveau-Brunswick : Quelles démarches a-t-il
faites pour tenter de s’assurer que Research in Motion pourrait peut-être venir s’établir au Nouveau- Brunswick? Quelles démarches précises a-t-il faites auprès de Research in Motion?
Hon. Mr. Mesheau: I would be pleased to answer the honourable member from up the way.
Certainly, we have a number of files on which we are working. I would like to point out to the honourable member, who says that we do not do enough for the north, that, in the last six years, we have loaned over $200 million to over 140 companies in the north alone. I want to assure the honourable member across the way that we work hard every day with many, many files, including some in his area. I want to assure him that we will continue to do that.
M. Haché : Je pense que le ministre des Entreprises Nouveau-Brunswick a attrapé la maladie du premier ministre. Il ne comprend pas les questions et ne peut donner les bonnes réponses. Ma question est celle-ci : Le ministre a-t-il été en contact avec Research in Motion dans le but d’apporter ces emplois ici, au Nouveau-Brunswick? De plus, j’aimerais lui demander s’il est d’accord avec son agente de communications, Sarah Ketcheson, qui dit que le Nouveau-Brunswick n’était pas sur le radar de Research in Motion.
Hon. Mr. Mesheau: I can assure the honourable member that, indeed, a lot of companies are on the radar, including Molson, including Moosehead, and including a whole raft of companies in the north and in the south. I can assure the honourable member that, if there is any opportunity to bring 1 250 jobs here, we would certainly play a role in convincing a company to come to New Brunswick. Are
we involved in every file going on in North America and in Canada? I doubt it, but I want to assure the honourable member across the way that, when we are on a file, we rarely let go.
In fact, recently, the contact centre industry of Canada rated New Brunswick in the top three jurisdictions in terms of procuring contact centre jobs in this country and, in fact, in North America.
M. Haché : J’aimerais citer l’agente de communications de son ministère qui dit :
Even the provincial government admits the company’s Maritime headquarters could have drained New Brunswick’s high tech job market and employees with the required skill set.
Elle continue en disant : “There’s a fear of - the term is called cannibalization - of the workforce.”
C’est incroyable. Vous pouvez blâmer l’ancien gouvernement libéral tant que vous voulez. Il y a une chose, cependant : McKenna ne se gênait pas pour aller chercher ces emplois-là. McKenna croyait dans les gens du Nouveau-Brunswick. Il croyait dans les gens d’affaires du Nouveau-Brunswick,
ce qui est le contraire de votre gouvernement. De ce côté-là de la Chambre, ces gens ne croient pas
aux capacités du Nouveau-Brunswick, ils ne croient pas aux talent des gens d’affaires du Nouveau-Brunswick et ils ne croient pas que, au Nouveau-Brunswick, nous avons le talent nécessaire pour faire venir n’importe quelle entreprise. C’est le problème…
Mr. Speaker: Honourable member, your time is up.
(Interjection.)
Hon. Mr. Mesheau: You sit down.
Asseyez-vous.
Mr. Speaker: Order. Take your seat. Order.
Hon. Mr. Mesheau: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. He can cannibalize the truth all he wants, and he can pick away at his old bones, but I want to assure the honourable member across the way that we have consistently, over the last 13 months, kept our unemployment figure well below double digits.
That, McKenna failed to do in 10 years of government.
(Interjections.)
Highways
Mr. Allaby: Perhaps everyone could regain composure in the House. This past September, following a lot of pressure from industry, road builders, truckers, CAA, and other advocates of better highways, the federal government agreed to add some 12 000 km to the National Highway System.
This should be very good news for northern New Brunswick, because Routes 8, 11, and 17 were added to the national highway system. The Minister of Transportation was absolutely correct in calling this an important victory for the people of New Brunswick. However, it is not important enough for the Premier even to have mentioned the words “roads” or “highways” in the throne speech. My question to the Minister of Transportation is this: Will the minister explain to this House
how the policy direction of the throne speech could completely ignore such a significant expansion of the National Highway System in New Brunswick.
L’hon. P. Robichaud : Cela me fait toujours rire lorsque l’opposition me pose des questions au sujet des routes. On parle ici d’un parti qui a négligé les routes du Nord du Nouveau-Brunswick et qui veut maintenant devenir un champion en défendant ces mêmes routes. La réponse à la question du député est bien simple. Lorsque je rencontre les constructeurs de routes du Nouveau-Brunswick et tous les autres intervenants dans le secteur de la construction de routes au Nouveau-Brunswick,
ils nous disent tous, sans exception, que notre gouvernement est un chef de file dans la construction routière. Nous allons continuer de l’être. J’invite les parlementaires libéraux à regarder le budget que le ministre des Finances déposera. Encore une fois, nous démontrerons que nous sommes des chefs de file dans la construction de routes au Nouveau-Brunswick.
Mr. Allaby: Compared to the way that this government gutted road building in the first few years of its mandate, finally starting to restore a road building capital budget is, indeed, worthwhile news.
It is still not back up to Sheldon Lee’s budgets. For a great many years, successive Ministers of Transportation have talked about how much more they could do for Routes 11 and 17, if only the federal government would help. I am told that this minister told a group wishing to have the Marysville bypass extended to South Portage, as was done in the 1998 design, that they would be able to do this if only the feds would agree to a partnership. Now, the announcement has been made that the feds are partners, but there is not a word about road building in the throne speech. Why?
L’hon. P. Robichaud : J’invite le député à relire le discours du trône. Il se rendra compte que l’infrastructure stratégique et les routes font partie du discours du trône. Lorsque je suis allé dans la circonscription du député cet été, les gens m’ont dit que mon gouvernement investissait plus d’argent dans les routes dans Îles-de-Fundy que les Libéraux en avaient investi lorsqu’ils étaient au pouvoir. J’entends les Libéraux nous faire la morale au sujet des routes 8, 11 et 17 et je leur demande de convaincre leurs petits cousins à Ottawa d’être des partenaires financiers avec nous. Si nous avons inclus des routes dans le réseau routier national, c’est parce que le fédéral reconnaît qu’il a une responsabilité. Qu’il vienne donc à la table de négociation pour mettre de l’argent comme nous en mettons dans les routes 8, 11, 17, dans les routes 1, 2, 7, 95 et 15 ainsi que dans toutes les autres artères principales du Nouveau-Brunswick.
Mr. Allaby: I am glad the minister brought up Route 1. In early October, the U.S. Congress designated the East-West highway from Calais to Watertown, New York, as a high priority for funding from Washington. This is very important for trade and economic development for all of Atlantic Canada, especially southern New Brunswick, and also for industrial growth in Saint John..
This government has been asleep at the switch on Route 1 for five years. Only in the last year or so has the government started rebuilding it. There is not a word in the throne speech about how New Brunswick will shape our economic development road-building policy to take advantage of this enormous initiative that is taking place in Maine. We could really benefit from it, and there is not a peep about it in the throne speech. Why?
L’hon. P. Robichaud : Vous savez, si le député d’Îles-de-Fundy, qui est le porte-parole des Transports, et le Parti libéral au grand complet, veulent aider les gens du Nouveau-Brunswick en ce qui a trait à la construction routière, ce n’est pas compliqué, car nous avons des routes qui font partie du réseau routier national et une initiative pour les routes rurales. Nous avons un réseau routier qui comprend au-delà de 18 000 km de route, si ces gens-là veulent faire leur part ils devraient parler à leurs petits cousins d’Ottawa, qui nagent dans des excédents et ne savent plus faire avec leur argent, autre que de faire des promesses électorales à tout bout de champ. Ils devraient leur demander d’investir avec nous dans des projets stratégiques d’infrastructures qui sont les routes du Nouveau-Brunswick qui ont tellement été négligées lorsque les parlementaires du côté de l’opposition étaient au pouvoir.
Soins de santé
M. V. Boudreau : Le 21 novembre dernier, Donald Thomas, de Petit-Tacadie a été gravement blessé, lors d’un accident automobile, et a dû attendre 18 heures avant sa première chirurgie. Le 28 novembre, le ministre a annoncé qu’une enquête aurait lieu pour faire la lumière dans cette affaire.
Nous sommes maintenant à trois semaines depuis l’incident et à deux semaines depuis que le ministre s’est engagé à faire l’enquête. Nous savons tous que ce gouvernement est fatigué et ne fait rien dans bien des dossiers, mais cet incident est très sérieux et mérite une attention particulière.
Le ministre de la Santé et du Mieux-être peut-il nous confirmer quand, avec une date précise, il rendra publics les résultats de cette enquête?
L’hon. E. Robichaud : Premièrement, les questions de santé ne sont pas des questions de politique.
Lorsqu’il arrive des situations comme celle relatée par mon collègue, il faut regarder les raisons qui peuvent expliquer le délai. On a embauché un expert-conseil, le Dr Dubinsky Celui-ci est en train de faire l’analyse. Ce que j’ai demandé à mes employés est ceci : un rapport complet du temps où le patient a été admis à Tracadie-Sheila, jusqu’à ce que les traitements aient commencé à Saint John.
C’est l’information que j’attends, et je n’ai pas donné de temps précis. Lorsqu’on aura toute l’information, à ce moment-là, je vais sûrement regarder à ce cas, car mon intention est de m’assurer que, si on peut améliorer le système, on va le faire, comme c’est le cas depuis 1999.
M. V. Boudreau : En parlant avec des professionnels de la santé un peu partout dans la province, on doit sérieusement se poser la question à savoir si l’incident de M. Thomas en est un isolé au Nouveau-Brunswick ou non. Nous savons tous que le plan de santé de ce gouvernement n’a pas été bien intégré dans le système de soins de santé de notre province. Ce gouvernement n’a pas consulté les partenaires et a réduit par centaines le nombre de lits dans les hôpitaux avant de mettre des ressources additionnelles dans les autres secteurs.
Le ministre de la Santé et du Mieux-être veut-il nous avouer qu’il se cache derrière cette enquête, car ce n’est pas un incident isolé, mais plutôt un problème systématique qui existe en raison d’un manque de plan de coordination entre les huit régions régionales de la santé de notre province?
(Exclamations.)
L’hon. E. Robichaud : Évidemment, lorsque l’on parle de vérité, comme le député de Nigadoo- Chaleur le mentionne, il faudrait peut-être que ses collègues arrêtent de dire des faussetés.
L’incident dont il est question aujourd’hui n’a pas rapport du tout avec le fait s’il y avait des lits disponibles ou non. Je peux affirmer cela très clairement. Toutefois, nous allons regarder à ce qui s’est produit. Lorsqu’on parle de notre plan de santé, c’est bon d’en parler, parce qu’il y a à peine un an, il n’y avait pas de clinique de méthadone au Nouveau-Brunswick, sans parler du troisième
laboratoire de cathétérisme que l’on va établir à Saint John.
Un peu plus tôt, le député de Shediac—Cap-Pelé, faisait des commentaires à savoir qu’on n’investissait pas ce qu’il fallit, eh bien, selon les dernières statistiques de l’Institut canadien d’information sur la santé nous dit qu’on est la deuxième province au niveau d’investissement par habitant. En termes d’augmentation, l’année dernière, on était la troisième province au Canada qui a le plus augmenté ses budgets.
M. V. Boudreau : Selon certains spécialistes dans le domaine de la santé au Nouveau-Brunswick, l’incident de M. Thomas ne ferait même pas la liste des 100 pires scénarios dans la province. Alors, je pense qu’il y a des problèmes à régler dans notre système.
On sait tous que ce gouvernement cherche à concentrer tous les soins de santé dans nos centres urbains et ne tiennent pas compte des réalités rurales de notre province.
Mais c’est complètement ridicule d’aller aussi loin que d’embaucher un expert de Toronto pour évaluer les lacunes qui existent dans les régions rurales du Nouveau-Brunswick. Le ministre de la Santé et du Mieux-être peut-il nous expliquer pourquoi un expert de Toronto vient enquêter sur cette question, plutôt qu’un
expert de la Nouvelle-Écosse, par exemple, qui connaît sûrement mieux la réalité du phénomène de la ruralité dans les soins de santé dans une petite province comme le Nouveau-Brunswick?
L’hon. E. Robichaud : Lorsque le gouvernement libéral était au pouvoir, il apportait des toasts de Toronto à l’Hôpital régional de Saint-Jean. Le chef de l’opposition est sorti. Monsieur le président, vous m’excuserez si je fais un commentaire sur l’absence d’un député, mais cela le gêne, parce que c’est le même chef qui embauche des gens de l’Ontario pour venir décider de la destinée du parti d’en face.
Je trouve cela insultant quand les gens font de tels commentaires. Le député de Shediac—Cap-Pelé devrait prendre le temps de s’informer. On a vérifié avec une firme du Nouveau-Brunswick, mais ce n’était pas possible. On a vérifié avec une firme de la Nouvelle-Écosse, mais, dû à l’urgence de la situation, il fallait être sûr qu’on aurait une objectivité, on est allé chercher un spécialiste à l’extérieur de la province.
Premièrement, il faut vérifier les faits. Le député de Shediac—Cap-Pelé nous parle de 100 cas. Je l’invite à apporter ses 100 cas et je serais surpris d’en trouver une dizaine. On a des gens qui se dévouent dans le système de santé tous les jours. Je trouve honteux quand on fait des commentaires gratuits comme le député le fait actuellement.
Monday, December 12, 2005
MY PROTEST IN FRONT OF THE NEW BRUNSWICK LEGISLATURE ENDED EXACTLY TWO YEARS AGO TODAY!!!!
My God how time flies? It was exactly two years ago < Tuesday > that my protest ended.
Sure feels like the protest continues but on the information Highway?
Even thought Bernard Lord and Elvy Robichaud promised they would look at the issue but quickly told New Brunswickers after the protest ended that a committee was totally out of the question.
I know one certain fact!
If the MLA’s from both political parties would have known at the beginning of the protest that I would be moving to the Capital afterwards?
They would have made certain that my protest would have ended in days and not 6 months.
These days? They have to see my ugly face every day of the week…lol
The ombudsman Bernard Richard told New Brunswickers and the Senate that the Government should take a close look at the issue of drugging our kids but to no avail.
I could write many stories that happened to me since the protest ended but why bother?
I know if I was living in Saint John? I would show up at the Legislature for a one day protest but why bother?
I have been continuing the protest via the information Highway!
You can read a few articles by clicking in these website for more stories of the end of the protest!
target="_blank">Charles
Blog
target="_blank">Charles
Blog
target="_blank">Charles
Blog
I wrote a book of my protest and I truly believe it would be printed by now but it’s not. The title is - The last of the true protesters!
So maybe you can say that it can come out in years?
It’s a darn shame.
This is a story of my last days of the protest. In my own words-
In the evening of December 11th, I was at my tent for the last time, it began to rain.
I crawled in my tent to shut my radio off.
I just put my brain cells back to six months earlier when I first began my fight for the 10,000 kids with ADHD.
All those heavy rainy nights and the hot broiling sun.
My God? How time flies when you’re having fun?
I felt sad the protest was soon coming to an end I was going to return to Saint John and spend Christmas with my family.
I turned my lantern off for the very last time and I was a little emotional.
I had many comfortable evenings sleeping in that tent I am going to miss it.
I close my tent up and went walked to the James Joyce Restaurant across the street at the Beaver Brook Hotel.
I had to return the Lantern Julie MacDonald < Manager > lent me and the winter gloves that Kim Finnamore < Waitress > gave me a few months earlier.
Those people treated me with respect even though they knew I wasn’t a customer.
Once inside, I noticed two politicians enjoying a nice drink.
Donald Arseneault and Burt Paulin.
These Liberal MLA’s have been very good to me since the protest began it was nice to see them.
We had a chat for a final time.
They told me to order anything I wanted because we have to celebrate the end of my protest.
As a joke? I said- Give me a triple white Russian!
They insisted so I ordered a double white Russian it was a great way to celebrate the end.
Burt Paulin told me he’s very grateful he met me because his daughter’s child was told he would have to be on Ritalin.
If it wasn’t for my protest? He would have never known about Ritalin so he told his daughter that his Grandson will never be on Ritalin.
I’ve been hearing the same thing from a lot of other people who I educated about the use of Ritalin.
Yes, maybe it was time to end the protest.
The next morning, I returned to my tent and it was still all in one piece so I decided to go for a coffee at Tim’s.
Gary who drives for Trius Taxi beeped his horn and told me to look in the direction of my tent?
I looked than continued on but he beeped his horn again.
I walked over to him he told me someone was at my tent.
I glanced over and noticed a woman walking away she quickly disappeared between the two government building.
I walked to my tent and noticed an envelope with a ten dollar gift certificate from Quizno’s. It was signed by Le vent de L’Est!
In English it means - From the wind from the east or the eastern wind!
I wish I could have had the chance to speak to her because that Lady has been leaving Tim’s Horton coupons all summer long.
I might add that she also left a few religious items but as soon as I called her name?
She quickly disappeared with the cold winds.
Sure was nice of her because I need the coffee with lots of sugar in the morning to get myself going to confront the public with my petition. She sure knew what she was doing.
There’s a lot of nice people in this City.
What a day this has been. I was told to meet T.J. Burke at 9:30am on the front steps of the Legislature.
Sure enough? He was right on time.
T.J. Burke came to the scene he invited me into the Departmental building where the media was located.
He introduced me to everyone including the communication man for the Government –– Tim Porter.
I didn’t really want to shake the guy hand because he has always intervened during my conversation with the Ministers during the summer months but I decided to let by
gone be by gone.
By now? The media knew all about me I became good friends with a few of them.
Afterwards, we went to the front desk in the Legislature T.J. told Andre that I needed to register.
I was heading to the Gallery but they had something else in mind.
He arranged for me to be sitting on a sofa in the chambers.
I never expected that honor!
I expected to be in the gallery to watch the action from the top of the house.
This was a total surprise for this protester.
While waiting for the action to begin, a few MLA'S from different political party came to shake my hand and congratulated me.
They said- HEY CHARLES??? IT'S YOUR DAY!!
I answered- It's not my day!
It's the day for the 10,000 kids around this province who suffers from ADD/ADHD!
I noticed Dawn Bowie in the Gallery I waved at her.
She was a great help to me during my protest.
I sat down and looked at all the politicians inside the Legislature.
There’s many of them that I became good friends with during the summer months and of course there’s some of them I didn’t care for.
The ceremony began with the Sergeant At Arms leading the way I must admit that Dan Bussieres plays the part like a professional.
He had his fancy suit with his sword in hand.
We New Brunswickers should be proud to have a Sergeant At Arms with such class.
Roly McIntyre < Liberal MLA> stood up and said- Mr. MacIntyre: It is my pleasure to introduce Charles LeBlanc from Saint John, if anybody here has not met him.
It is a very special occasion today.
Charles has been here at the Legislature for 180 days, and he is going home today.
He always said he was here for the kids, protesting against the use of Ritalin for ADD and ADHD. It was not about him.
It was about the kids.
I will say to you, Charlie: You have some tenacity. I want to thank you for your efforts and for your tenacity, and I wish you well in whatever journey you take.
Goodbye from all of us.
After he finished his speech all the liberals stood up and gave me a standing ovation.
I was surprised the P.C.’s did the same gesture.
One person asked me to stand up I didn't really remember the next few seconds but I do remember I gave the whole House a nice good bye wave!
I was very emotional it sure was nice to be recognized for the battle that I've been doing for the ADD/ADHD during the past 6 months.
Elvy Robichaud quickly stood up and said – I also want to recognize Charles Leblanc.
Last week we sat down to discuss what has been accomplished about the issue of ADHD and what more can be done.
This morning, I want to assure Charles during his six months protest he has educated a lot of people about ADHD.
The petition that he collected shows there’s many more people in this province who are educated about this mental disorder because of Charles.
I told Charles I was going to help him set up a meeting with the representatives from the Medical Society.
My colleagues Mrs. Dube < Minister of Education> is making sure Charles meets the people from the Department who really understands the politics in the school system in the special education process in the school system.
So Charles, I want to assure you this morning that your efforts weren’t in vain.
Because of you Charles? There’s thousands of people out there who are more educated on the issue of ADHD.
You can go home with your head high.
It’s not my style to get emotional but I was and I tried to keep my composure.
It was very difficult.
T.J. Burke stood up and said- For those of us around the Legislature, Charles LeBlanc and his tent became a familiar sight over the past number of months.
His protest lasted 180 days. This speaks to his commitment to the issue, and it also speaks to the fact that he is one of the last true protesters of this province——or at least campers.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects 3% to 6% of Canadians. Boys with ADHD tend to outnumber girls by three to one, although ADHD is under
identified.
In his article “ What’s It Like to Have ADD?”, Dr. Edward M. Hallowell describes it as follows: “It’s like driving in the rain with bad windshield wipers. Everything is smudged and blurred and you’re speeding along, and it’s reeeeally
frustrating not being able to see very well.”
He also describes it by saying: “ Or it’s like listening to a radio station with a lot of static and you have to strain to hear what’s going on.”
There is no conclusive cause for ADHD, and the debate over treatment rages on.
There is increasing debate over the treatment for ADHD.
Ritalin, a stimulant, is the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD, but
there is rising debate over the appropriateness of the drug in treating all cases, as well as over the long-term impact.
Charles LeBlanc has spent the past six months trying to bring about greater awareness of the issue.
I sat down with Mr. LeBlanc on Wednesday, and he said something I will truly never forget.
He said: Mr. Burke, when you present this petition, please don’t mention my name.
Just mention the kids.
I think that speaks volumes for what he has accomplished.
Today, I am tabling this petition, and I am so honoured to table it, with 10 000 names. It simply states:
I agree that Ritalin is over prescribed in this province.
Je suis d’’accord que le ritalin est sur prescrit dans cette province.
I would like to table the petition of Mr. LeBlanc.
He made a wonderful speech as I knew he would.
Afterwards I was directed back out of the chambers.
Around the MLA'S shook my hand to congratulate me.
Once outside, I was met by Nina Chiarelli a reporter from the Telegraph Journal she noticed I had tears in my eyes.
It was very emotional.
Before I left the Legislature? I saw Bev Harrison < Speaker of the House> I thanked him for not signing papers to deport me from the lawn of the Legislature
like they deported us Acadians in 1755!
Once outside, I was told to return inside the Legislature to meet with Elvy and Madeleine.
These two Ministers told me they’ll support me in front of the media.
They said a committee won't be in action in the near future but my petition is something to look into.
My god? Cameras all over the place with mikes in everyone faces. The television stations asked me if I would go to my tent and they’ll film me taking down my little home.
That Evening, all the television stations except CBC English television and the Moncton Transcript refused to cover my protest.
It was great to spread the word to New Brunswickers I was protesting and it was over after I collected 10,100 names.
It’s a darn shame I never received very much coverage from day one?
It sure would have made my campaign to collect signatures a little easier.
Allan White from CBC English radio did a very good job educating the people on my battle.
Lets not forget Charles Gagnon from L'Acadie Nouvelle. He really helped my cause in
spreading the word to my follow Acadians.
The hard job was yet to come.
I had to take down my tent and I didn't know that I had so much junk.
I came to the Capital with 2 pairs of pants, 2 shirts and a few blankets.
These days? I need a van for all the stuff that I collected during these past six months.
Danny Robichaud, he’s the guy who lent me his tent.
He came at 2:30pm.
I thanked Danny than he was on his way.
Before he left he told me I did a wonderful job for the kids.
I told Danny I appreciated his tent because it made my protest a lot easier and it was warmer.
Can you imagine if I had had my summer tent in the winter
months?
It would have been an impossible task!
During this protest?
I learned one valuable lesson!
What a person says and what a person does? Is two different things!
This guy came through with his promise and I'm grateful for his good gesture.
I had to pack all my things on the back of Roly's Truck.
I have a meeting set up with the officials of the Education Department on December 19th Friday morning.
Lets pray before then I can meet with the head cheese of the medical society.
That afternoon it was very cold on the front lawn of the Legislature.
I noticed someone walking towards the Legislature with a sign.
I couldn’t make out the writing but he had a long story to tell me about his concerns.
After five minutes of listening?
I told him I was the guy in the tent and he could take my place if he wanted?
He asked me if I was the Charles LeBlanc?
I answered - Yes!
He shook my hand and told me he was French and he has ADHD!
I told the Sergeant at Arms Dan Bussieres maybe one ADHD protester is gone but there’s another one waiting to plead his case….lol…
My God? Those people with ADHD are sure radical there’s nothing wrong with that.
Two staff members from the Legislature showed up holding a bag.
They threw the items near me and quickly left the scene.
At first, I didn’t know what it was? It was my old tent the Sergeant At Arms took from me on August 19th.
It wasn’t rolled up in one piece and there were many more items inside.
I totally forgot how much stuff that I had collected because he took my tent away.
It was very windy and cold so I never had time to separate all the junk.
I just rolled it in one bag and threw it behind Roly’s truck.
I was certain Dan rolled up my tent in one piece I didn’t think Dorothy Dawson would have been too pleased because it was her tent.
The first week of the session at the Legislature finished.
Roly took off to Saint John with my things and drop it off to my cousin home.
THE PROTEST IS OFFICIALLY TOUT FINI!!
You know something? This little experience was better than the one when I rode a ten speed bicycle across Canada and to the U.S.A.! It was great I'll never forget it.
I hope someone can help me with writing a book so I can put all my entire funny stories in it so future generations can read about my experience.
On December 13th, I must admit I was very honored. The Telegraph Journal and Daily Gleaner gave the 10,000 ADHD kids good publicity.
When a person is on the front page with the new Prime Minister of Canada then a person cannot really complain I guess.
It’s over but Charles has a problem?
The problem you ask?? CHARLES IS GOING NUTS!!!!
Every Saturday morning during the past four months, I was always at the Farmer’s market to confront the citizens with my petition it made my weekend very interesting. But now?
I just walk on the sidewalk like everyone else I say- Hello!
I never shut up for the past 6 months suddenly it comes to a complete stop.
There sure is a lot of people congratulating me for a job well done it’s nice to be recognized for your hard work.
On December 13th, I noticed that the Saint John River was beginning to build up with ice when that happens? It’s time for me to pack up my tent and leave I guess.
The cold winter months are officially here!!!
Little did I know that the drugging and the killing of our children will continue in New Brunswick.
Of course for me? I will let my ADHD take me where ever I land!! If you would have told me that two years later? I would be doing the same thing? I would have told you that you're nuts but the battle continues for Justice of the kids.
Sure feels like the protest continues but on the information Highway?
Even thought Bernard Lord and Elvy Robichaud promised they would look at the issue but quickly told New Brunswickers after the protest ended that a committee was totally out of the question.
I know one certain fact!
If the MLA’s from both political parties would have known at the beginning of the protest that I would be moving to the Capital afterwards?
They would have made certain that my protest would have ended in days and not 6 months.
These days? They have to see my ugly face every day of the week…lol
The ombudsman Bernard Richard told New Brunswickers and the Senate that the Government should take a close look at the issue of drugging our kids but to no avail.
I could write many stories that happened to me since the protest ended but why bother?
I know if I was living in Saint John? I would show up at the Legislature for a one day protest but why bother?
I have been continuing the protest via the information Highway!
You can read a few articles by clicking in these website for more stories of the end of the protest!
target="_blank">Charles
Blog
target="_blank">Charles
Blog
target="_blank">Charles
Blog
I wrote a book of my protest and I truly believe it would be printed by now but it’s not. The title is - The last of the true protesters!
So maybe you can say that it can come out in years?
It’s a darn shame.
This is a story of my last days of the protest. In my own words-
In the evening of December 11th, I was at my tent for the last time, it began to rain.
I crawled in my tent to shut my radio off.
I just put my brain cells back to six months earlier when I first began my fight for the 10,000 kids with ADHD.
All those heavy rainy nights and the hot broiling sun.
My God? How time flies when you’re having fun?
I felt sad the protest was soon coming to an end I was going to return to Saint John and spend Christmas with my family.
I turned my lantern off for the very last time and I was a little emotional.
I had many comfortable evenings sleeping in that tent I am going to miss it.
I close my tent up and went walked to the James Joyce Restaurant across the street at the Beaver Brook Hotel.
I had to return the Lantern Julie MacDonald < Manager > lent me and the winter gloves that Kim Finnamore < Waitress > gave me a few months earlier.
Those people treated me with respect even though they knew I wasn’t a customer.
Once inside, I noticed two politicians enjoying a nice drink.
Donald Arseneault and Burt Paulin.
These Liberal MLA’s have been very good to me since the protest began it was nice to see them.
We had a chat for a final time.
They told me to order anything I wanted because we have to celebrate the end of my protest.
As a joke? I said- Give me a triple white Russian!
They insisted so I ordered a double white Russian it was a great way to celebrate the end.
Burt Paulin told me he’s very grateful he met me because his daughter’s child was told he would have to be on Ritalin.
If it wasn’t for my protest? He would have never known about Ritalin so he told his daughter that his Grandson will never be on Ritalin.
I’ve been hearing the same thing from a lot of other people who I educated about the use of Ritalin.
Yes, maybe it was time to end the protest.
The next morning, I returned to my tent and it was still all in one piece so I decided to go for a coffee at Tim’s.
Gary who drives for Trius Taxi beeped his horn and told me to look in the direction of my tent?
I looked than continued on but he beeped his horn again.
I walked over to him he told me someone was at my tent.
I glanced over and noticed a woman walking away she quickly disappeared between the two government building.
I walked to my tent and noticed an envelope with a ten dollar gift certificate from Quizno’s. It was signed by Le vent de L’Est!
In English it means - From the wind from the east or the eastern wind!
I wish I could have had the chance to speak to her because that Lady has been leaving Tim’s Horton coupons all summer long.
I might add that she also left a few religious items but as soon as I called her name?
She quickly disappeared with the cold winds.
Sure was nice of her because I need the coffee with lots of sugar in the morning to get myself going to confront the public with my petition. She sure knew what she was doing.
There’s a lot of nice people in this City.
What a day this has been. I was told to meet T.J. Burke at 9:30am on the front steps of the Legislature.
Sure enough? He was right on time.
T.J. Burke came to the scene he invited me into the Departmental building where the media was located.
He introduced me to everyone including the communication man for the Government –– Tim Porter.
I didn’t really want to shake the guy hand because he has always intervened during my conversation with the Ministers during the summer months but I decided to let by
gone be by gone.
By now? The media knew all about me I became good friends with a few of them.
Afterwards, we went to the front desk in the Legislature T.J. told Andre that I needed to register.
I was heading to the Gallery but they had something else in mind.
He arranged for me to be sitting on a sofa in the chambers.
I never expected that honor!
I expected to be in the gallery to watch the action from the top of the house.
This was a total surprise for this protester.
While waiting for the action to begin, a few MLA'S from different political party came to shake my hand and congratulated me.
They said- HEY CHARLES??? IT'S YOUR DAY!!
I answered- It's not my day!
It's the day for the 10,000 kids around this province who suffers from ADD/ADHD!
I noticed Dawn Bowie in the Gallery I waved at her.
She was a great help to me during my protest.
I sat down and looked at all the politicians inside the Legislature.
There’s many of them that I became good friends with during the summer months and of course there’s some of them I didn’t care for.
The ceremony began with the Sergeant At Arms leading the way I must admit that Dan Bussieres plays the part like a professional.
He had his fancy suit with his sword in hand.
We New Brunswickers should be proud to have a Sergeant At Arms with such class.
Roly McIntyre < Liberal MLA> stood up and said- Mr. MacIntyre: It is my pleasure to introduce Charles LeBlanc from Saint John, if anybody here has not met him.
It is a very special occasion today.
Charles has been here at the Legislature for 180 days, and he is going home today.
He always said he was here for the kids, protesting against the use of Ritalin for ADD and ADHD. It was not about him.
It was about the kids.
I will say to you, Charlie: You have some tenacity. I want to thank you for your efforts and for your tenacity, and I wish you well in whatever journey you take.
Goodbye from all of us.
After he finished his speech all the liberals stood up and gave me a standing ovation.
I was surprised the P.C.’s did the same gesture.
One person asked me to stand up I didn't really remember the next few seconds but I do remember I gave the whole House a nice good bye wave!
I was very emotional it sure was nice to be recognized for the battle that I've been doing for the ADD/ADHD during the past 6 months.
Elvy Robichaud quickly stood up and said – I also want to recognize Charles Leblanc.
Last week we sat down to discuss what has been accomplished about the issue of ADHD and what more can be done.
This morning, I want to assure Charles during his six months protest he has educated a lot of people about ADHD.
The petition that he collected shows there’s many more people in this province who are educated about this mental disorder because of Charles.
I told Charles I was going to help him set up a meeting with the representatives from the Medical Society.
My colleagues Mrs. Dube < Minister of Education> is making sure Charles meets the people from the Department who really understands the politics in the school system in the special education process in the school system.
So Charles, I want to assure you this morning that your efforts weren’t in vain.
Because of you Charles? There’s thousands of people out there who are more educated on the issue of ADHD.
You can go home with your head high.
It’s not my style to get emotional but I was and I tried to keep my composure.
It was very difficult.
T.J. Burke stood up and said- For those of us around the Legislature, Charles LeBlanc and his tent became a familiar sight over the past number of months.
His protest lasted 180 days. This speaks to his commitment to the issue, and it also speaks to the fact that he is one of the last true protesters of this province——or at least campers.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects 3% to 6% of Canadians. Boys with ADHD tend to outnumber girls by three to one, although ADHD is under
identified.
In his article “ What’s It Like to Have ADD?”, Dr. Edward M. Hallowell describes it as follows: “It’s like driving in the rain with bad windshield wipers. Everything is smudged and blurred and you’re speeding along, and it’s reeeeally
frustrating not being able to see very well.”
He also describes it by saying: “ Or it’s like listening to a radio station with a lot of static and you have to strain to hear what’s going on.”
There is no conclusive cause for ADHD, and the debate over treatment rages on.
There is increasing debate over the treatment for ADHD.
Ritalin, a stimulant, is the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD, but
there is rising debate over the appropriateness of the drug in treating all cases, as well as over the long-term impact.
Charles LeBlanc has spent the past six months trying to bring about greater awareness of the issue.
I sat down with Mr. LeBlanc on Wednesday, and he said something I will truly never forget.
He said: Mr. Burke, when you present this petition, please don’t mention my name.
Just mention the kids.
I think that speaks volumes for what he has accomplished.
Today, I am tabling this petition, and I am so honoured to table it, with 10 000 names. It simply states:
I agree that Ritalin is over prescribed in this province.
Je suis d’’accord que le ritalin est sur prescrit dans cette province.
I would like to table the petition of Mr. LeBlanc.
He made a wonderful speech as I knew he would.
Afterwards I was directed back out of the chambers.
Around the MLA'S shook my hand to congratulate me.
Once outside, I was met by Nina Chiarelli a reporter from the Telegraph Journal she noticed I had tears in my eyes.
It was very emotional.
Before I left the Legislature? I saw Bev Harrison < Speaker of the House> I thanked him for not signing papers to deport me from the lawn of the Legislature
like they deported us Acadians in 1755!
Once outside, I was told to return inside the Legislature to meet with Elvy and Madeleine.
These two Ministers told me they’ll support me in front of the media.
They said a committee won't be in action in the near future but my petition is something to look into.
My god? Cameras all over the place with mikes in everyone faces. The television stations asked me if I would go to my tent and they’ll film me taking down my little home.
That Evening, all the television stations except CBC English television and the Moncton Transcript refused to cover my protest.
It was great to spread the word to New Brunswickers I was protesting and it was over after I collected 10,100 names.
It’s a darn shame I never received very much coverage from day one?
It sure would have made my campaign to collect signatures a little easier.
Allan White from CBC English radio did a very good job educating the people on my battle.
Lets not forget Charles Gagnon from L'Acadie Nouvelle. He really helped my cause in
spreading the word to my follow Acadians.
The hard job was yet to come.
I had to take down my tent and I didn't know that I had so much junk.
I came to the Capital with 2 pairs of pants, 2 shirts and a few blankets.
These days? I need a van for all the stuff that I collected during these past six months.
Danny Robichaud, he’s the guy who lent me his tent.
He came at 2:30pm.
I thanked Danny than he was on his way.
Before he left he told me I did a wonderful job for the kids.
I told Danny I appreciated his tent because it made my protest a lot easier and it was warmer.
Can you imagine if I had had my summer tent in the winter
months?
It would have been an impossible task!
During this protest?
I learned one valuable lesson!
What a person says and what a person does? Is two different things!
This guy came through with his promise and I'm grateful for his good gesture.
I had to pack all my things on the back of Roly's Truck.
I have a meeting set up with the officials of the Education Department on December 19th Friday morning.
Lets pray before then I can meet with the head cheese of the medical society.
That afternoon it was very cold on the front lawn of the Legislature.
I noticed someone walking towards the Legislature with a sign.
I couldn’t make out the writing but he had a long story to tell me about his concerns.
After five minutes of listening?
I told him I was the guy in the tent and he could take my place if he wanted?
He asked me if I was the Charles LeBlanc?
I answered - Yes!
He shook my hand and told me he was French and he has ADHD!
I told the Sergeant at Arms Dan Bussieres maybe one ADHD protester is gone but there’s another one waiting to plead his case….lol…
My God? Those people with ADHD are sure radical there’s nothing wrong with that.
Two staff members from the Legislature showed up holding a bag.
They threw the items near me and quickly left the scene.
At first, I didn’t know what it was? It was my old tent the Sergeant At Arms took from me on August 19th.
It wasn’t rolled up in one piece and there were many more items inside.
I totally forgot how much stuff that I had collected because he took my tent away.
It was very windy and cold so I never had time to separate all the junk.
I just rolled it in one bag and threw it behind Roly’s truck.
I was certain Dan rolled up my tent in one piece I didn’t think Dorothy Dawson would have been too pleased because it was her tent.
The first week of the session at the Legislature finished.
Roly took off to Saint John with my things and drop it off to my cousin home.
THE PROTEST IS OFFICIALLY TOUT FINI!!
You know something? This little experience was better than the one when I rode a ten speed bicycle across Canada and to the U.S.A.! It was great I'll never forget it.
I hope someone can help me with writing a book so I can put all my entire funny stories in it so future generations can read about my experience.
On December 13th, I must admit I was very honored. The Telegraph Journal and Daily Gleaner gave the 10,000 ADHD kids good publicity.
When a person is on the front page with the new Prime Minister of Canada then a person cannot really complain I guess.
It’s over but Charles has a problem?
The problem you ask?? CHARLES IS GOING NUTS!!!!
Every Saturday morning during the past four months, I was always at the Farmer’s market to confront the citizens with my petition it made my weekend very interesting. But now?
I just walk on the sidewalk like everyone else I say- Hello!
I never shut up for the past 6 months suddenly it comes to a complete stop.
There sure is a lot of people congratulating me for a job well done it’s nice to be recognized for your hard work.
On December 13th, I noticed that the Saint John River was beginning to build up with ice when that happens? It’s time for me to pack up my tent and leave I guess.
The cold winter months are officially here!!!
Little did I know that the drugging and the killing of our children will continue in New Brunswick.
Of course for me? I will let my ADHD take me where ever I land!! If you would have told me that two years later? I would be doing the same thing? I would have told you that you're nuts but the battle continues for Justice of the kids.
KITTY SURVIVES DEADLY FIRE - BY TIM SMITH!!!
Too bad that Tim Smith doesn't have a camera like mine.....two ADHD individuals in different Cities..lol...Politicians would be scared sh@tless!!!,,,lol
Here's his story -
Hey here's a little story for ya..
Nancy Kellar had gone back to her apartment on the corner of Duke and
Sydney street today dec 12th to gather a few personal belongings after 5
days.
The first thing she had to do is to look around and see if she could
locate her kitty as at the time of the fire she had only gotten her dog
out but not the kitty which had shaken her up quite a bit that horrible
day.
She heard a noise coming from under her bed and low and behold her
kitty had made it through the fire unscathed but a little shaken up.
It ran back down to the basement because she obviously was quite scared
but once nancy went down and talked to her and managed to pick her up
she then knew everything was going to be ok.
I'm glad I happened along when I did as nancy went in to her apartment
and got to witness this bit of happy news.
Of which I thought I would share with you readers.
She managed to get at her food and continued to use the litter box
which had been floating in the basement section of her apartment in about 3
feet of water until it receeded.
I wish I could say with all certainty that the kitty's name is Kipper
but I'm just not sure but I think she may rename her "LUCKY" now.
Charlie I think you should put the pic of the burning building back up
along with this good little story but I'm rushing it along to you
pretty messed up. if you can touch it up a bit to read a little better be my
guest.
I was going to send it to the paper but you can tell them there in the
fredericton office and maybe they can call nancy and do a little story
of their own. but for now through the mirical of freedom of information
and me being the amature reporter in the right place at the right time
you got the story first. and especially a nice little christmas mirical
story.
MEET THE BEST INVESTMENT FOR YOUR TAX DOLLARS IN THE NEW BRUNSWICK LEGISLATURE!!!!
I always held off in writing about this issue but no more. That’s my ADHD in action. I’ll do it but it never gets done!!!!..lol..oh well..c’est la vie…that’s what we do…
Many of you readers will never set foot inside the Legislature. < Maybe that’s a good thing >..lol..
Anyway beside all the media, bureaucrats and MLA’S, there’s one person who works very hard for the Taxpayers of this Province and never receives any credit.
Her name is Donelda Dickerson!!!
I first came across this fine woman after my protest.
Lets not forget that during my 6 months protest, I wasn’t allowed in the Legislature so I didn’t know the going on within the People’s House.
Donelda Dickerson is very quiet individual.
She goes around cleaning the mess the people left in the House.
Especially during the winter months, she always mops the floor so the visitors know the People House is a clean place.
Months ago, I noticed that the House was a little filthy and it wasn’t her style to not keep it clean.
They had other contractors filling in for her but they couldn’t keep it clean.
I found out a few months that Donelda took a leave of absence because her mother had passed away.
The old saying is so true.
You only appreciate someone when it’s gone and this was surely the case with this hard working cleaning lady.
Yes, This woman works by a one year contract and your taxpayers money are well invested with this fine Lady.
When you see our elected officials on Television?
Take a moment to think that there’s a hard working silent worker who behind the scene keeps the people’s House very clean!
This is one investment that you should be proud that the Government made.
Beside appointing Bernard Richard as Ombudsman who always on the phone and checking the information Highway for info to help New Brunswickers?
It’s not the same salary but she does good work for the citizens of New Brunswick.
Keep up the good work Donelda!!!
Many of you readers will never set foot inside the Legislature. < Maybe that’s a good thing >..lol..
Anyway beside all the media, bureaucrats and MLA’S, there’s one person who works very hard for the Taxpayers of this Province and never receives any credit.
Her name is Donelda Dickerson!!!
I first came across this fine woman after my protest.
Lets not forget that during my 6 months protest, I wasn’t allowed in the Legislature so I didn’t know the going on within the People’s House.
Donelda Dickerson is very quiet individual.
She goes around cleaning the mess the people left in the House.
Especially during the winter months, she always mops the floor so the visitors know the People House is a clean place.
Months ago, I noticed that the House was a little filthy and it wasn’t her style to not keep it clean.
They had other contractors filling in for her but they couldn’t keep it clean.
I found out a few months that Donelda took a leave of absence because her mother had passed away.
The old saying is so true.
You only appreciate someone when it’s gone and this was surely the case with this hard working cleaning lady.
Yes, This woman works by a one year contract and your taxpayers money are well invested with this fine Lady.
When you see our elected officials on Television?
Take a moment to think that there’s a hard working silent worker who behind the scene keeps the people’s House very clean!
This is one investment that you should be proud that the Government made.
Beside appointing Bernard Richard as Ombudsman who always on the phone and checking the information Highway for info to help New Brunswickers?
It’s not the same salary but she does good work for the citizens of New Brunswick.
Keep up the good work Donelda!!!
CANADIAN FEDERAL ELECTION - SCOTTICH BLOOD? THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT WE NEED IN OTTAWA!!!
Did you readers know that me < yes me > mother is from Scotland? She came to Canada and married my father who's a pure Acadian!
My problem isn't ADHD! I'm half Scottish and we all know there's nothing more stubborn than a darn Scotsman! Maybe this is exactly what we need in Ottawa???
My problem isn't ADHD! I'm half Scottish and we all know there's nothing more stubborn than a darn Scotsman! Maybe this is exactly what we need in Ottawa???
GOD'S MINUTE!!!
FOR YOU, O LORD, WILL BLESS THE RIGHTEOUS; WITH
FAVOR. YOU WILL SURROUND HIM AS WITH A SHIELD.
( PSALM 5:12 *NKJV )
Dear Charles,
In this busy World of ours we often forget to stop and
count all of our blessings. If we are not careful we may
even take them for granted!
So why not stop and count your blessings today, for
when you count them you will find that there are many
indeed! Also you will find that counting your blessings
is a great way to begin you day!
Now the above verse reminds me of a poem that I very
much enjoy. Today I would like to share that poem with
you, and it is my hope that you will enjoy it as well!
Your Blessings Are So Many, Lord!
Your blessings are so many, Lord,
To count them one by one
Would take much longer than a day
That has just now begun!
You fill each day with miracles
From dawn to setting sun.
Each night You hear a million prayers
When day's work is done.
You keep this old world spinning
As seasons come and go,
And each one is a masterpiece
That stets our hearts aglow.
You fill the earth with beauty, Lord,
With flowers, shrubs and trees,
And we marvel at Your rainbows
And butterflies and bees.
Your words still give us comfort
For Your promises are true.
Your blessings are so many, Lord,
In everything we do!
Poet, Clay Harrison
Have a wonderful day Charles, and; MAY GOD BE
GRACIOUS TO YOU AND BLESS YOU AND MAKE HIS
FACE SHINE UPON YOU. Amen. ( PSALM 67:1 )
With My Love & Prayers,
your servant Allen
[ Prayer Requests---Contact Us---Bible Study---*Donations* ]
[ Audio---Subscribe---Change of Address---Unsubscribe ]
at: http://www.godsminute.org
Apostle Paul Ministries, P O Box 55996, Hayward, CA 94545
IF THE TAX RATE GOES UP???? IT WOULD BE WAR IN THE LOYALIST CITY!!!!
Once the LNG deal came in place? I told anyone who would listen that once the property tax goes up? It would be WAR! As any other issue, they go away with the sunset but in this case? It will just bring back the issue og the LNG deal. Am I wrong on this issue??? Here the story in the Irving's paper.
NB Telegraph-Journal | Saint John
As published on page B1 on December 12, 2005
Mayor says tax hike last resort
Council to deal with pension fund shortfall tonight
Click to zoom McFarlane
By David Shipley
Telegraph-Journal
Dealing with the city's pension fund woes will be a major focus for common council when it meets tonight.
Mayor Norm McFarlane says council will explore all options - including an increase in the city's property tax rate to deal with the issue.
The city needs to address the pension plan issue before dealing with next year's budget, he said.
"I want it done before budget," Mr. McFarlane said.
The budget should be completed in early January, the mayor said. That gives the council a little over a month to address the four-year-old pension fund problem.
Mr. McFarlane said he is reluctant to raise the tax rate because council had to raise the property tax rate by four cents last year to pay for items from previous years' budgets.
"My absolutely last resort is a tax increase," he said.
He admitted though, that given the amount of money the city is dealing with in the pension plan problem, council may have no choice but to raise taxes.
"If it has to be, it has to be."
City staff has warned the council that the pension issue could mean either a six-per-cent rise in property taxes or a major cutback in city services.
Another option is the possibility of borrowing the money and adding to the city's long-term debt.
However, Mr. McFarlane said many options were "within reason" because the pension issue has been going on since 2001.
The fund is more than $44 million in arrears and in the next year the city will be required to pay down $11 million of the liability. Actuarial experts say the fund does not have enough money in it to meet the future needs of city workers who retire.
The pension fund's shortfall is the result of an 18-month stock market dive in 2001 and 2002. The city put off dealing with the issue in the past two years and the pension plan deficit is $11 million.
The city's entire yearly operating budget is about $100 million.
Any solution council comes up with for the pension plan will have to be more than a short-term answer, aid Mr. McFarlane.
"What we do for the pension fund will have to look toward the future so this doesn't happen again and another council isn't faced with this in the future."
NB Telegraph-Journal | Saint John
As published on page B1 on December 12, 2005
Mayor says tax hike last resort
Council to deal with pension fund shortfall tonight
Click to zoom McFarlane
By David Shipley
Telegraph-Journal
Dealing with the city's pension fund woes will be a major focus for common council when it meets tonight.
Mayor Norm McFarlane says council will explore all options - including an increase in the city's property tax rate to deal with the issue.
The city needs to address the pension plan issue before dealing with next year's budget, he said.
"I want it done before budget," Mr. McFarlane said.
The budget should be completed in early January, the mayor said. That gives the council a little over a month to address the four-year-old pension fund problem.
Mr. McFarlane said he is reluctant to raise the tax rate because council had to raise the property tax rate by four cents last year to pay for items from previous years' budgets.
"My absolutely last resort is a tax increase," he said.
He admitted though, that given the amount of money the city is dealing with in the pension plan problem, council may have no choice but to raise taxes.
"If it has to be, it has to be."
City staff has warned the council that the pension issue could mean either a six-per-cent rise in property taxes or a major cutback in city services.
Another option is the possibility of borrowing the money and adding to the city's long-term debt.
However, Mr. McFarlane said many options were "within reason" because the pension issue has been going on since 2001.
The fund is more than $44 million in arrears and in the next year the city will be required to pay down $11 million of the liability. Actuarial experts say the fund does not have enough money in it to meet the future needs of city workers who retire.
The pension fund's shortfall is the result of an 18-month stock market dive in 2001 and 2002. The city put off dealing with the issue in the past two years and the pension plan deficit is $11 million.
The city's entire yearly operating budget is about $100 million.
Any solution council comes up with for the pension plan will have to be more than a short-term answer, aid Mr. McFarlane.
"What we do for the pension fund will have to look toward the future so this doesn't happen again and another council isn't faced with this in the future."
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