The Record Ep. 42

Cape Breton-Canso MP Mike Kelloway recently returned from a trip to the United States, where tariffs on Canadian goods were a key topic of discussion.

During his visit, Kelloway met with several U.S. officials, including Maine Senator Angus King. He emphasized that both parties agreed to keep communication open. A particular focus was placed on defending the fishing and seafood industries against tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Additionally, he highlighted concerns regarding the impact of tariffs on the Port Hawkesbury Paper mill in Point Tupper. Following these discussions, Kelloway said steps were taken to strengthen these relationships.

A Richmond County couple has been found guilty of multiple sexual charges involving young people.

On February 21, Shelley and Daryl Digout were convicted in Port Hawkesbury Provincial Court of sexual interference, sexual assault, and being at large on a confirmed undertaking. The Nova Scotia Public Prosecution Service confirmed that the couple is scheduled for sentencing on May 7.

Finance and Treasury Board Minister John Lohr tabled the 2025-26 provincial budget on February 18, promising more than $500 million in tax cuts—the largest in the province’s history.

The budget outlines a record-breaking $2.3 billion capital plan and projects a deficit of $697.5 million, with revenues of $16.5 billion and expenses of $17.6 billion, according to the provincial government.

Port Hawkesbury Town Council held a combined committee-of-the-whole and regular public meeting on February 18. Afterward, Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton and CAO Terry Doyle answered media questions.

Councillor Paula Hart reported that residents have raised concerns about large trucks using noisy brakes late at night. Meanwhile, the town is seeking more details about the provincial government's plans for resource extraction.

On the same day, the provincial government introduced legislation to lift blanket bans on natural resource development while ensuring projects are carried out safely. The omnibus bill, An Act Respecting Agriculture, Energy, and Natural Resources, amends five pieces of legislation. It proposes changes to the Petroleum Resources Act to allow for the potential use of hydraulic fracturing, repeals a ban on uranium exploration and mining to permit research, extends Efficiency Nova Scotia’s demand-side management plan, modernizes agricultural regulations, and enhances protections against noxious weeds.

During the meeting, a SAERC Social Services program student raised concerns about ice buildup along the waterfront, while a Napean Street resident questioned the timing of sidewalk clearing in her neighborhood.

The town also confirmed that it will comply with the provincial government’s request to have municipal Emergency Control Centres fully staffed and operational, ensuring coordination with the Provincial Coordination Centre during emergencies.

Mayor Chisholm-Beaton was also asked about an open house held on February 4, which aimed to encourage resident participation in town committees.

Two vessels built in Richmond County have joined the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Conservation and Protection fleet.

On February 20, Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard, announced the arrival of two new 44-foot vessels to replace aging patrol boats. Built by Samson Enterprises Ltd. of Isle Madame under a $5.4 million contract, the vessels were designed with input from fishery officers to meet the department’s needs.

According to the DFO, the new vessels will enhance fishery officers’ ability to enforce the Fisheries Act, recover abandoned or lost fishing gear, and monitor endangered species. The vessels are designed to operate in adverse weather conditions and provide greater storage capacity than their predecessors.

One vessel will be based in Yarmouth, while the other will share a home port between Pictou and Chéticamp. These vessels are the final two in a four-vessel replacement program, funded through the Small Craft Acquisition Program.

The Government of Canada is investing $4,520,403 to support businesses and organizations in Inverness and Victoria counties.

Through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, several projects are receiving repayable contributions. One such project, Marble Mountain Estates, is set to receive $250,000 to establish year-round accommodations on the Bras d’Or Lake. Currently home to Eileanan Breagha Vineyards, the project includes the construction of four chalets, renovations to the existing farmhouse, and an accommodation above the winery. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) noted that these enhancements aim to boost year-round tourism by encouraging visitors to explore the region during the shoulder and winter seasons.