(Wolfville, N.S.) -- On June 9th NDP MLAs Ramona Jennex and Jim Morton celebrated the historic 1-year anniversary of their NDP government’s majority victory.

Both say it has been an honour to represent their Valley constituents over the past 12-months and they are proud of what the government has been able to achieve over this span to make life better for families.

“As a first time MLA the past year has been a challenging but ultimately exhilarating experience,” says Jennex. “Our government has made significant progress in terms of making life more affordable. This is especially true for low and modest income families who, starting July 1, will receive the Affordable Living Tax Credit."

Morton points to the removal of HST from home electricity along with the elimination of HST on children’s clothing and feminine hygiene products as key ways the NDP is making life better. He also says the government has taken enormous steps to protect the environment.

“Nova Scotia now has the most aggressive renewable energy strategy, not only in Canada, but across North America,” says Morton. “By setting a goal of 40% of all electricity produced from renewable sources by 2020, we are drastically reducing Nova Scotia’s carbon footprint while creating thousands of good jobs.”

Jennex is also pleased that more university graduates will remain in Nova Scotia thanks to the Graduate Retention Rebate.

“Far too many young people were graduating from Acadia or NSCC and then moving to another province to start a career,” says Jennex. “This incentive, that provides up to $15,000 in tax breaks, will ensure our labour market has the skilled professionals required to keep our economy strong.”

While Morton also applauds the Graduate Retention Rebate, he says the government has taken many important steps to make life better for seniors.

“We ended a major injustice when we eliminated security deposits at nursing homes,” says Morton. “This practice created a great deal of strain and forced many out of their homes and communities before they were ready – I’m glad those days are over.”

Both first time MLAs credit the New Home Construction Rebate with helping to kick start a key industry.

“This incentive was very effective in encouraging people to build new homes,” added Morton. Added Jennex, “1,500 people took advantage of this program, it saved those households money and it helped create jobs.”

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For more information,

Mark Laventure
Media Relations Officer
NS NDP Caucus
O: (902) 424-6984
C: (902) 497-5953
laventma@gov.ns.ca