The Atlantic Almanac | October 26 to November 2

The final week of October in Atlantic Canada brought developments in healthcare leadership, energy policy, and affordability measures. New Brunswick saw controversy surrounding health authority leadership and debate over its utility’s electricity sales. Nova Scotia considered a binding agreement for a proposed date centre, while Prince Edward Island released its fiscal update for the fall. Meanwhile, Newfoundland and Labrador announced changes to its Churchill River negotiating team and plans to temporarily remove its provincial fuel tax.

New Brunswick

Health authority chair departs: Vitalité Health Network board chair Thomas Soucy stepped down on Saturday, citing a disagreement with Health Minister John Dornan over his support for the network’s senior leadership. Dornan disputed the claim, maintaining that Soucy’s exit was the result of his term ending and denying any tensions with Vitalité CEO France Desrosiers. He also rejected hints that Soucy’s departure was connected to a recent dispute over Vitalité’s decision to redeploy nurse practitioners from primary care to the emergency room at Campbellton Regional Hospital, a move the provincial government later directed the network to reverse.

Utility sales defended: Energy Minister René Legacy justified NB Power’s decision to sell surplus electricity outside of the province at higher market prices rather than offering discounted power to local customers, following a ruling by the Energy and Utilities Board in April. While Legacy argued that the practice benefits the province, J.D. Irving warned this could increase its annual electricity costs by $10 million and lead to the closure of its east Saint John paper mill. The board promised a comprehensive review of the decision, with Legacy indicating that the provincial government will await the outcome of the process before taking further action.

Nova Scotia

Data centre agreement supported: Premier Tim Houston said he is willing to negotiate a binding agreement with EverWind Fuels on water usage and protection for electricity rates for its proposed data centre in Cape Breton. The company confirmed that it had offered to sign an agreement with the province earlier this month. In addition, Houston defended a critical email sent by his communications advisor to Professor Sibo Chen at Toronto Metropolitan University, who had raised concerns about the project’s electricity costs and water usage. NDP Leader Claudia Chender criticized the government’s response, arguing that it could discourage independent experts from speaking publicly.

Liberal leadership debate held: The final debate for the Liberal Party leadership was held on Wednesday, ahead of the party’s leadership convention in November. Becky Druhan, MLA for Lunenburg West, emphasized her experience working under Houston, while Amanda Mombourquette, a Richmond County councillor, highlighted her community leadership. The candidates mainly agreed on economic development, healthcare, and improving trust with First Nations, while challenging each other’s records. Druhan questioned Mombourquette’s position on regulating data centres, while Mombourquette criticized Druhan’s leadership during a school support workers’ strike.

Prince Edward Island

Fall fiscal update released: Finance and Affordability Minister Jill Burridge reported a projected $459.3 million deficit for 2026-27, an increase of $49.4 million from the budget tabled in April. At the same time, provincial revenues exceeded budget estimates by $52 million, supported by stronger corporate income tax and sales tax revenues, as well as additional federal funding. The provincial economy continued to demonstrate growth, with increases in employment, labour income, retail sales, and exports. However, rising healthcare pressures, increased funding for social programs, and higher fuel costs continue to put pressure on PEI’s finances.

Health authority CEO appointed: Laurae Kloschinsky was selected as CEO of Health PEI after serving in the interim role since March, following the departure of former CEO Melanie Fraser. Board chair Dr. Richard Wedgie praised her leadership and commitment to collaboration, expressing confidence in her ability to improve access to care and strengthen health services. Health and Wellness Minister Cory Deagle welcomed the appointment, highlighting the importance of leadership continuity and the strong relationships Kloschinsky has established with healthcare professionals and community partners across the province.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Churchill River negotiator replaced: Premier Tony Wakeham announced that former Newfoundland Power CEO Gary Smith will succeed Barry Perry as lead negotiator for the Churchill River power agreement. Perry stepped down before final contracts were reached but will remain as special advisor, with Wakeman describing the transition as planned and amicable. Meanwhile, Liberal Party Leader John Hogan questioned the resignation of legal advisor Bernard Coffey a day before the special legislative debate, with Wakeham stating only that Coffey had fulfilled his responsibilities. Hogan also called for further debate before the final contract is signed, although Wakeham indicated that he expects the deal to be finalized before it is presented to the House of Assembly.

Fuel tax temporarily removed: The Newfoundland and Labrador government will eliminate its provincial tax on gasoline and diesel for four months, from December 1 to March 31. Finance Minister Craig Pardy said the measure will reduce fuel costs by eight cents per litre and provide approximately $25 million in relief to residents. The government plans to introduce an amendment during the fall legislative session to implement the change, building on its electricity rebate and home heating assistance program. Pardy also indicated that two “substantial measures” will be announced soon, and that the province intends to extend the tax relief beyond March, depending on fuel prices.