Second session of the 57th legislature began today

Photo courtesy of http://www.newbrunswickbeacon.ca

The New Brunswick Legislature in Fredericton was the site of more than just political gatherings today.
The second session of the 57th New Brunswick Legislature was opened today with the Speech from the Throne, delivered by New Brunswick Lieutenant-Governor Graydon Nicholas.

Communications New Brunswick quoted a part of the throne speech:

“This throne speech marks the beginning of the legislative year and the continuation of your government’s work to support a stronger economy and enhanced quality of life while living within our means,” said Nicholas. “The last few years have seen significant and difficult changes which have impacted the people of New Brunswick. It is no longer business as usual.”

New Brunswick Premier David Alward told Communications New Brunswick that "today’s speech from the throne lays out a new foundation for rebuilding our province. This foundation will be built on an economic development strategy that will move our workers from ‘hope wanted’ to ‘help wanted,’ with investments in job opportunities. It will be built by supporting families with renewed programs and services to help overcome poverty, increase access to primary health care and provide quality education for our next generation. This foundation will be supported by a government that is innovative, equitable and sustainable." 

The throne speech highlighted investments in job creation, healthy families and an enhanced quality of life and government renewal. 

Some major issues the government will take on during this session include a reestablishment of electoral boundaries and reforms to local government. A total of fifteen new pieces of legislation will be introduced during this session. 

Protesters braved a snowstorm and flocked to the front lawn of the Legislative building in the province's capital city to voice their opposition to the exploration and development of shale gas in rural New Brunswick. A teepee was set up on the lawn on Saturday where protesters have been camping out.

A copy of the Throne Speech is available online at http://www.gnb.ca/cnb/Promos/Throne-2011/PDF/SpeechThrone2011.pdf.