Carney address huge crowd in Halifax, meets with premier on energy

Prime Minister Mark Carney and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston at an event in Halifax. PHOTO: GOVERNMENT OF NOVA SCOTIA/ WITH PERMISSION.

As Prime Minister Mark Carney continues to make his rounds in Nova Scotia, he addressed a large crowd at the Halifax Convention Centre with what our mayor calls, enthusiasm and inspiration.

Andy Fillmore says in a private word with the prime minister early Friday morning, he spoke about the importance of infrastructure to support housing and Ottawa’s ambition for defence spending here in Halifax.

“I look forward to the incredible changes that will happen in Halifax as a result of these investments, including housing and housing infrastructure to support all the new workers that will be here,” says Fillmore in a video posted on Facebook.

It was Thursday when Carney announced $3 billion for our military here and in New Brunswick.

It includes investments in things like hangers, training and housing.

Ottawa, Nova Scotia sign deal to streamline project approvals

The Prime Minister’s visit also included a new agreement with Nova Scotia focused on how major projects are approved.

Carney and Premier Tim Houston signed a deal to streamline reviews when both federal and provincial approvals are required.

Carney says the agreement will allow governments to “build big and build fast” by cutting red tape and speeding up major infrastructure projects, while also creating jobs.

The so-called “one project, one review” model is expected to benefit developments like Wind West, an offshore wind project that would require new transmission to move energy across Canada and beyond.

Houston says the agreement will help “unlock the many benefits” of the province’s energy sector, adding it gives developers more certainty and could help position Nova Scotia as a key supplier of clean energy.

Carney concludes N.S. tour in Pubnico

The Prime Minister then visited Pubnico, Yarmouth County.

Dozens lined the Dennis Point Wharf and Cafe Friday for handshakes and selfies with Mark Carney.

Acadie-Annapolis MP Chris d’Entremont believes it’s the first time a Prime Minister has visited the community.

“He puts importance on rural Canada to understand their needs. There are a number of things they’ve talked about and continue to focus on, and the fishery is one of them,” said d’Entremont.

Carney also threw some bait onto a boat, and chatted with local lobster fishers.