New Brunswick.

• Author: Dunn, Patrick
• Position: Legislative Reports

This report covers the period from July 6 to October 6, 2022.

Cabinet Shuffle

On July 15, Premier Blaine Higgs announced changes to cabinet. Two ministers changed portfolios. Dorothy Shephard moved from Health to Social Development and Bruce Fitch moved from Social Development to Health.

New Leader of the Liberal Party and New Leader of the Opposition

At its leadership convention held in Fredericton on August 6, the New Brunswick Liberal Association elected Susan Holt as its new leader. The first woman to lead the provincial Liberal party, Ms. Holt is a former business leader and advisor to former Premier Brian Gallant. As she does not hold a seat in the Legislative Assembly, the Liberal caucus named Robert McKee as Leader of the Opposition. In addition, Francine Landry was appointed Opposition Whip and Chuck Chiasson was appointed Opposition Caucus Chair.

Resumption of the 1st Session of the 60th Legislature

The first session of the 60th Legislature resumed on October 4. The continuation of the session in the fall was another exceptional development during the extended first session that opened in November 2020. The House has traditionally reconvened in the fall each year solely to prorogue the current session without transacting any substantive business, followed by the opening of a new session the same day.

Introduction of New Members

When the House resumed on October 4, two new Members returned at by-elections held on June 20, Rejean Savoie (Miramichi Bay-Neguac) and Mike Dawson (Miramichi-Bay du Vin), were introduced by Premier Higgs and took their seats.

Demise of the Crown

On October 4, the House marked the passing of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with speeches by Premier Higgs, Opposition Leader McKee, and Green Party Leader David Coon. Later that day, Premier Higgs moved, seconded by Mr. McKee, a resolution for a humble address of condolence to His Majesty King Charles III and members of the Royal Family, which was adopted following further tributes to Her late Majesty.

Legislation

One government bill was introduced when the House resumed on October 4:

* Bill 120--An Act Respecting Community Funding, introduced by Local Government and Local Governance Reform Minister Daniel Allain The Bill proposes a new funding mechanism for local governments and rural districts. The existing mechanism for community funding and equalization grants provided to local governments and rural districts has been in effect since 2013. Under the...