Labour Market News

Keeping up with the latest news in the labour market is key to planning your next job search or recruitment move.

On this page, you can read news articles about current or upcoming job opportunities and layoffs across Canada. You can refine your search by selecting a specific location, occupation, industry, or type of event.

Search by

Nova Scotia

All industries All news

The following news present significant events from the past four weeks that may affect the supply and demand in the labour force in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia’s first class of emergency medical responders have started their studies with Medavie HealthEd this month. The 14 students will graduate at the end of May, the first of 200 emergency medical responders who will be trained over the next 2 years. The next group begins in June.

  • Other type of event
  • Health care and social assistance
  • Added on 2024-03-12
  • Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia's Department of Labour has cleared the Donkin underground coal mine for year-round operation after an 8-month shutdown due to roof falls in the main access tunnel. Mine owners Kameron Coal have not yet indicated their plans.

  • Other type of event
  • Mining and oil and gas extraction
  • Added on 2024-03-13
  • Cape Breton Region, NS

The Government of Canada has announced $14M in joint federal/provincial funding to establish a network of new trails and reconstructed sidewalks in Inverness to improve cyclist and pedestrian safety and increase connectivity and walkability.

  • Other type of event
  • Construction
  • Added on 2024-03-12
  • Cape Breton Region, NS

New and Coming Soon Businesses: TNDude (Spryfield), The Sandman Signature Hotel and Denny’s/BarOne (Dartmouth), Silken Swim, Levantic Bakery, and Bollywood Bar & Lounge (Bedford), Chai Samosa, Buddy’s Deli, Kings Pier Vintage and Winners (Halifax).

  • Other type of event
  • Accommodation and food services
  • Added on 2024-03-10
  • Halifax Region, NS

The Association of N.S. Midwives says demand for their services has been rising for years but has not been reflected in provincial funding levels and are pushing for increased funding for more positions. There are currently 16 midwives employed at 3 provincial sites (Halifax, Lunenburg, and Antigonish).

  • Other type of event
  • Health care and social assistance
  • Added on 2024-03-09
  • Nova Scotia

The N.S. Government has announced $3.1M in funding (Year 1) for 16 community-based organizations for projects that address gender-based violence including Elizabeth Fry Society, Antigonish Women’s Centre, N.S. Native Women’s Association, Africadian Empowerment Academy and Coverdale Justice Society.

  • Other type of event
  • Health care and social assistance
  • Added on 2024-03-08
  • Nova Scotia

Three Nova Scotia municipalities are receiving $9.1M in federal housing funding to fast-track the construction of over 500 homes over 3 years. These include Kings County ($6M for 220 new units), Chester ($2M for 200 new units) and the Town of Lunenburg ($1.1M for 135 units).

  • Other type of event
  • Construction
  • Added on 2024-03-11
  • Nova Scotia

The Government of Canada has announced combined federal/provincial/municipal funding of $1.1M for Barrington to improve its wastewater treatment infrastructure.

  • Other type of event
  • Public administration
  • Added on 2024-03-11
  • Southern Region, NS

N.S. Health has reported about 153k people waiting for a doctor on the family practice registry as of Feb. 1, more than double 2021 numbers. Approximately 10% of those have been on the list for over 3 years. Challenges vary by area but key driving factors include population growth and practices closing.

  • Other type of event
  • Health care and social assistance
  • Added on 2024-03-12
  • Nova Scotia

SaltWire Network Inc., the owner of 23 Atlantic Canada newspapers, has filed for creditor protection with $94M in debt. The company has 14 weekly papers, as well as the Chronicle Herald and Cape Breton Post in N.S., the Telegram in N.L., and the Guardian in P.E.I.

  • Layoff
  • Information and cultural industries
  • Added on 2024-03-11
  • Nova Scotia

The federal government has decided to cancel the 2024 Maritime elver season for harvesting baby eels, as it was unable to control illegal fishing. Fisheries and Oceans states it needs more time to put in regulations to crack down on the illegal harvest.

  • Other type of event
  • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
  • Added on 2024-03-11
  • Nova Scotia

The trucking industry in Atlantic Canada wants the government to do more about companies that employ drivers as independent contractors. This practice allows companies to make more money because the drivers don’t get benefits like sick days or overtime.

  • Other type of event
  • Transportation and warehousing
  • Added on 2024-03-08
  • Nova Scotia
News Archive

Want to find out more about local or provincial labour market history? The labour market news archive may be a good place to start.

In this section, you can browse archived news titles, whose links are no longer functional, for up to one year from the current date. The archived news can help you understand the labour market trends in geographic areas and industries that are of interest to you.

  • Week of 2024-03-01 to 2024-03-07
    • The Faculty Association and Mount Saint Vincent University have reached a tentative agreement ending the current strike, which included full-time faculty, librarians and lab instructors. University staff were among the lowest paid in the province and asked for wage parity with other Atlantic universities.

      cbc.ca
    • HRM is considering funding 15 new full-time firefighter positions for Upper Tantallon to address staff shortages. Training for new recruits will begin in February 2025. Construction will begin soon on the new $40M fire station and headquarters in Bedford West with completion slated for spring 2026.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. government has issued two warnings to Emergency Medical Care, about poor ambulance service in recent months. The main issue appears to be a lack of staff, despite spending millions to upgrade the fleet, a new contact, and more training spots.

      cbc.ca
    • The Town of Yarmouth has bought the former visitor information centre property from the N.S. Government and will be having public consultations on what to do with the property. With Yarmouth’s housing shortage, there is discussion that it could be used for a housing project.

      cbc.ca
    • New and Coming Soon Businesses: Better Golf (Hammonds Plains) and PetSmart (Halifax Shopping Centre).

      retales.ca
    • The Body Shop Canada will close nearly one third of its 105 Canadian locations, with four Martime locations closing in in Saint John, Dieppe, Sydney, and Truro. The company is seeking creditor protection and has closed all of its U.S. operations.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Halifax Regional Police will add 22 new positions this year to deal with staff shortages and population growth. The officer positions include 1 for the hate crime unit, 4 for community response, 2 for the police science training program, 2 for security checks, 1 for employee and family assistance, and 12 front-line patrol officers.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government is expanding its physician incentive programs to encourage more doctors to practise in the province. Qualifying physicians who establish a practice in the Central Zone can earn up to $75k in incentives while those outside the Central Zone are eligible for up to $125k.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $6,437,005 in funding through the Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund to four Cape Breton organizations to help establish comfort centres and upgrade facilities to improve emergency preparedness, and assist companies with storm-related repairs.

      canada.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced over $2.1M in funding to The Tomorrow’s Legends, a non-profit organization based in Sydney, to convert a former hockey arena to a solar-powered, net-zero state of the art multisport facility.

      canada.ca
    • Combined Federal ($155.7M), Provincial ($65M) and Municipal ($38M) Government funding was announced to build the Mill Cove Ferry Service for travel between Bedford and downtown Halifax. The project will include five electric ferries, two terminals and a maintenance facility.

      novascotia.ca
    • Combined Federal, Provincial and Municipal Government funding of over $17.7M was announced for 5 infrastructure projects in 3 communities in Pictou County to improve their capacity to manage wastewater and drinking water.

      canada.ca
    • N.S. wineries are concerned about the impact a new provincial program supporting commercial wine producers could have on local grape growers. The program would give $6-12M to 2 wine bottling companies that can purchase their grapes from outside Nova Scotia. The province’s wine sector adds $250M to the economy annually and sustains 1,100 jobs.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government is providing one-time funding of $1M to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia’s Community Grant Program, which funds charities, community groups and organizations for projects focused on mental health services and supports.

      novascotia.ca
    • Nova Scotia’s 2024-25 provincial budget shows an increase of 128 funded full-time staff for the disability support program. About 70 positions will be people moving from other parts of government while the rest are new jobs. The increase follows 77 new positions that were added in 2023.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2024-02-23 to 2024-02-29
    • Nova Scotia announced that 25 new modular public housing units will be installed in Glace Bay, Ingonish, Port Hawkesbury, Antigonish, Amherst, Springhill, Westville and Barrington. These are in addition to the 222 units announced previously.

      novascotia.ca
    • According to CMHC, Nova Scotia is tied with P.E.I. for the lowest rental vacancy rate in Canada. Despite a lot of construction in Halifax, its vacancy rate remains at 1%, while Cape Breton has dropped to 0.8% in 2023, compared to 6.1% in 2021.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Health Minister announced that prep work will begin in the spring of 2024 to prepare the site for the new Halifax Infirmary acute-care tower to be built at the QEII. It is estimated that it will cost about $245M for the first phase of construction.

      cbc.ca
    • Almost 240 Autoport workers in Eastern Passage have gone on strike after negotiations broke down between the company and Unifor Local 100 union. Autoport offered an 8% wage increase over three years to workers who currently earn $22.30 to $33.06 an hour.

      cbc.ca
    • Members of the Mount Saint Vincent University Faculty Association returned to the bargaining table after going on strike on Feb. 12. The association wants its faculty, librarians and lab instructors to receive the same wages as other Atlantic universities.

      cbc.ca
    • A veteran seafood analyst states that seafood exports from Nova Scotia to China have grown from $25M in 2007 to $666M in 2021, with most of that growth in lobster. In the early 2010s the Maritimes had an excess of lobster and targeted the market in Asia.

      cbc.ca
    • New and Coming Soon Businesses: PZZA.co (Sackville), Fishiam Sushi & Bubble Tea (Halifax), Kibo Sushi (Halifax), and Pazzo (Halifax); Closures: Centrall (Halifax Shopping Centre).

      retales.ca
    • St. John's-based Ocean Choice International (OCI) has sold its offshore scallop quota to three Nova Scotia companies. The value of the quota is estimated to be $200M and was purchased by Comeau's Sea Foods, LaHave Seafoods and Mersey Seafoods.

      cbc.ca
    • Calgary-based Lynx Air has ceased operations as of Feb. 26, after filing for creditor protection. The low-cost airline began in 2022 and flew out of Fredericton last summer. A Lynx spokesperson attributed the closure to growing financial pressures.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. government will issue a construction tender for a new Yarmouth emergency department in the spring. The new space will double the capacity and should be completed in 2027. An assisted living facility next to the hospital will also get $1M in upgrades.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia attracted 763 healthcare professionals and 244 construction professionals in 2023 through immigration programs. To help continue the province’s 70% retention rate of immigrants and their families, an extra $3M will go toward settlement supports.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2024-02-16 to 2024-02-22
    • Data between 2018 and 2022 from the Canadian Institute of Health Information, shows that N.S. is one of several Canadian provinces (the only maritime province) that experienced an outflow of physicians. Dalhousie University’s medical school currently admits 134 medical students annually with 79 positions allocated for N.S. residents.

      cbc.ca
    • A new state-of-the-art nurse training facility will open at Acadia University (Wolfville) for the 2026-27 academic year that will allow Acadia to obtain accreditation for a standalone nursing program that will target graduating 63 nurses every year by 2027. The N.S. Government is contributing $13.9M towards the project.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $1.2M over the next 2 years to the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia (Cherry Brook) to support several key projects that are aimed at expanding the centre’s resources and community engagement.

      novascotia.ca
    • Black and Indigenous Nova Scotians are still experiencing lower employment rates compared to the rest of the population. According to OneNS, the 2021 age-adjusted employment rate was 42.8% for First Nations and 46.1% for African Nova Scotians which fell behind the provincial rate of 51.9%.

      cbc.ca
    • The Atlantic provinces signed a new Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism, which will provide $30M in funding over the next four and a half years. The agreement aims to expand tourism year-round. Tourism in the region employs more than 111,000 workers.

      ctvnews.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced a new payroll rebate agreement to support the growth of global technology services company Cognizant, which could see as many as 1,000 new jobs within 6 years. Cognizant currently employs 1,000 people in the province where the Information and Communications Technology sector contributed $2.06B to the GDP in 2022.

      novascotia.ca
    • New and Coming Soon Businesses: Tesla (Burnside Industrial Park/Dartmouth) and Halifax Vintage Co-op (Halifax); Closures: Hyve Halifax (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $405k in funding to support the County of Kings Municipality to install electric vehicle charging stations in six different locations, including some stations that will use solar energy with battery storage. The municipality is contributing $270k to the project.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has approved a 120-unit housing development on 12 hectares in Fall River in the Halifax Regional Municipality. The developer, Perry Lake Developments, will begin work with municipal staff to move the project forward.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government is investing $3.6M in a new 6-month Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) training program with updated curriculum that will be piloted in April, with a second class in the fall. The current average length of CCA training is eight months.

      novascotia.ca
    • Acadia University is set to launch its new Africentric Bachelor of Education Program in Fall 2024 that will create more opportunities to increase the number of African Nova Scotian teachers in schools. It will target African Nova Scotian student-support workers currently employed in schools to upgrade their skills to teach.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2024-02-09 to 2024-02-15
    • The N.S. Government is partnering with Safety Services Nova Scotia to hire 15 new examiners to work out of Access Nova Scotia centres in the Halifax area to help reduce driving test wait times at a cost of about $2.3M.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has designated 15 new provincial parks and plans to expand 2 others as a part of the provincial parks and protected areas plan. The province now has 128 provincial parks.

      cbc.ca
    • Champlain Seafoods (Montreal) have announced that their Riverside Lobster International processing plant in Meteghan will shut down permanently citing insufficient lobster landings to sustain current processing capacity. Last spring the company employed about 80 local employees and 70 temporary foreign workers.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced two new initiatives to grow the provincial workforce in skilled trades. One is funding more training seats in high-demand trades that include electrician, plumber, carpenter, powerline technician, industrial mechanic, welder, metal fabricator, and automotive service technician. The other is waiving certification exam fees.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced its $1.6B 2024-25 Capital Plan. Highlights include $301.7M for the Halifax Infirmary expansion and CBRM healthcare redevelopment projects, $146.1M for hospital construction/renewal projects, $208.5M to build/renovate schools, and $47.1M in building/repairing public housing.

      novascotia.ca
    • Saint John-based Coast Tire & Auto Service and Andy’s Tire Group, which is headquartered in Halifax, have announced a merger. The new group will have roughly 500 staff, 46 stores, three distribution centres, and three retreading plants across Atlantic Canada.

      thewave.ca
    • The Dept of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is proposing to close the commercial Maritime fishery for baby eels or elvers in 2024. DFO said it is not possible to have a safe and sustainable elver fishery in 2024, after unauthorized fishers flooded the market in 2023.

      cbc.ca
    • Canada's actors, directors, musicians and the groups representing them have expressed major concerns over the livelihood and reputational threats Artificial Intelligence (AI) poses to them and have called on the Federal Government to include industry protections in its proposed AI legislation.

      citynews.ca
    • Bell Media’s parent company BCE Inc. states that it will sell 45 of its 103 regional radio stations and layoff 9% of its workforce or 4,800 jobs. CTV and BNN Bloomberg will see immediate cuts. Five Atlantic radio stations will be sold to Maritime Broadcasting.

      cbc.ca
    • New and Coming Soon Businesses: Pink Piano Cafe & Lounge (Sackville), Frank & Oak (Halifax Shopping Centre), DB Pearlz (Halifax), Starbucks (Halifax); Closures: Fujiyama (Halifax), Needs (Windsor Street location/Halifax), and Birch & Anchor (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • Over $1M in combined Federal/Provincial/Municipal funding has been announced to improve drinking water and wastewater management infrastructure in the Village of Port Williams.

      canada.ca
    • 160 full-time faculty, librarians and lab instructors represented by the Mount Saint Vincent University Faculty Association went on strike on February 12 after failing to reach an agreement with their employer. The main issue cited was the current compensation package.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced plans to streamline education program requirements with prospective teachers able to apply after 2 years of undergraduate study. The policy change is intended to address the provincial teacher shortage. Job offers have been extended to all prospective education degree graduates of a N.S. university.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2024-02-02 to 2024-02-08
    • New and Coming Soon Businesses: The 7 Virtues (Halifax), Kohinoor Resto-Bar (Halifax), Kababji (Dartmouth), and M&M Food Shop (Tantallon); Coming Soon: Pure Casa Café and Splurge Cheesecake and Snack Bar (Porter’s Lake); Closures: Papa Mario’s (Bedford Highway).

      retales.ca
    • $2.3-$3M in provincial government funding has been announced to cover contractor repairs to the Chester Connection Trail from July’s flood damage. Other recipients include Queens County Rails to Trails ($144k), LaHave River Trail ($285k), Bay-to-Bay Trail ($98k), Hubbards and Area ATV Club ($85k), and others.

      lighthousenow.ca
    • The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has reduced the share of the Gulf of St. Lawrence redfish quota held by Clearwater Seafoods and other offshore licence holders by 20%, in part to encourage Indigenous participation in the fishery. The commercial redfish harvest is resuming this year after a 30-year moratorium.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2024-01-26 to 2024-02-01
    • The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has released the redfish quota allocations for the Atlantic Provinces when the fishery reopens later this year after a nearly 30-year hiatus with N.L. at 19% (+2.0), N.S. at 33% (-5.8), N.B. at 11% (+3.1), and P.E.I. at 5% (+0.5). The total allowable catch will be 25k tonnes.

      cbc.ca
    • As contract talks begin, the N.S. Government and General Employees Union says job vacancies for health-care professionals have increased by 200% since 2019 with 1,100 full-time equivalent positions currently vacant across the province.

      cbc.ca
    • The Halifax Stanfield International Airport reported 3.6M passengers in 2023, an increase over 2022, but still about 15% lower pre-pandemic numbers of 4.2M. Passenger numbers between Halifax and the U.S. also dropped 45% between 2019 and 2023. Expansion by all airline partners is expected in 2024.

      cbc.ca
    • Data from the N.S. Association of Realtors show that on average, provincial real estate prices were up 2.9% in 2023 compared to 2022, while sales were down 17.2%. Low inventory continues to drive up demand and competition, keeping prices high, while high interest rates are pricing some people out of the market.

      cbc.ca
    • New and Coming Soon Businesses: Red Swan Pizza (Dartmouth), Raj’s Pizza (Halifax), and Snover (Halifax); Closures: Reitman’s (Scotia Square-Halifax), Backoo’s (Halifax), and RCHMND (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $3.5M in funding to Cape Breton University (CBU) to help them support an upgraded instructional facility for science-based research and learning. CBU is one of Canada’s fastest growing universities with over 8,000 students and over 800 employees.

      canada.ca
    • Staff shortages remain a limiting factor in improving health care in Nova Scotia as new projects are developed in areas such as cancer treatment. In addition to a shortage of family doctors, the provincial health authority has 150 radiological technologist openings and another 40 in pathology and laboratory medicine.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government’s 1-year pilot program to help establish the new public billing model for the universal mental health care transition, will start with psychologists, registered counselling therapists and social workers. N.S. has about 750 registered counselling therapists and a surge in clients is expected.

      cbc.ca
    • Northern Pulp in Abercrombie Point has officially terminated its unionized workforce of 110 former mill workers as of January 1, 2024. Unifor, the union representing the workers, will meet with company officials later this month. The mill shut down operations four years ago.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2024-01-19 to 2024-01-25
    • Changes to N.S.’s foreign health-care workers credentialing process in 2023 have led to an influx of nurses and an exodus of continuing care assistants from long-term care facilities where many foreign-trained nurses took temporary CCA positions. N.S. is working to fill the shortage by recruiting CCA’s from the Philippines and other countries.

      cbc.ca
    • Saint Mary's University in Halifax is scheduled to close its English-language training centre on May 1, 2024. The closure, which impacts about 24 staff and instructors, is due to declining demand for English-as-a-second-language (ESL) training at the school and a steady shift to private-sector providers.

      cbc.ca
    • A decision by the U.S. to increase the minimum legal size of lobster from 82mm to 84mm in 2025 and then 86mm in 2027, could reduce the amount of lobster shipped to the U.S. from Canada by 10-30%. The decision was made due to a reduction of young lobster.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Turkaz, The Daily Grind, The Moxy, and Grounds Café (all in Halifax), Milestones (Dartmouth), Jukai Japanese and Thai (Bedford); Coming Soon: Brilliant Jewellery & Repair and Bramble Café (all in Halifax) Envy+Grace (Dartmouth); Closures: East West (Dartmouth), Minato Sushi (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced over $950k in funding over 2 years on new programs and projects to help beef farmers increase production and stay competitive. The province has 380 licensed beef producers ,11 provincially inspected beef abattoirs and 86 licensed meat processing facilities.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2024-01-12 to 2024-01-18
    • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimates 3.5M additional housing units will be needed by 2030 to address the housing affordability issue. The Atlantic provinces are exploring ways to boost factory-built housing as one solution to accelerate housing construction in the region.

      cbc.ca
    • The Membertou First Nation in Cape Breton will be receiving $8.25M in funding from the federal Rapid Housing Initiative to build 32 new homes. Membertou is contributing $1.12M with $665k coming from Indigenous Services Canada. Construction has begun with completion expected by summer.

      cbc.ca
    • The federal government announced that the deadline of Jan. 18 for small businesses to repay their CEBA loans, will not be extended any further. If a business misses the deadline, the CEBA loan will be converted to a three year loan at 5%.

      charlottefm.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Sip Bar + Fare (Dartmouth), Anoinette’s Cheesecake (Sackville), Harvest (Dartmouth), and Hot Topic (Bedford); Closures: Fung Lum (Bedford).

      retales.ca
    • Halifax’s Macdonald Bridge is receiving a $75M makeover with a goal of extending its life by 75 years. Stantec has been hired as the engineering company with a construction tender expected to go out in spring. The project is expected to begin construction in Fall 2024 to be completed by 2027.

      cbc.ca
    • The Halifax Partnership, HRM’s economic development organization, recently attended several international job fairs where they received over 4,000 applications for 35 job offers from Halifax companies. Most of the jobs were for construction tradespeople with additional opportunities in information technology, manufacturing, business and financial sectors.

      cbc.ca
    • Winter tourism operators in northern Cape Breton are seeing an increasing number of out-of-province tourists. The area's winter tourism offerings are being better promoted and local amenities such as restaurants and accommodations have extended their seasons.

      cbc.ca
    • The federal government has announced $980k for 56 electric vehicle charging stations in the Halifax area to be installed this spring.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S.-based company, Heritage Memorials, has been awarded the new $236,830 contract to construct a tomb of the unknowns at the Newfoundland National War Memorial in St. John's slated to be completed by July 1.

      cbc.ca
    • The federal government will provide up to $86M in funding to 15 organizations across Canada to help speed up the credential process of 6,600 internationally educated health workers. The aim is to help fill labour gaps and strengthen the healthcare system.

      ctvnews.ca
  • Week of 2024-01-05 to 2024-01-11
    • The Government of Canada has signed a $355M bilateral agreement with N.S. to improve health care over 3 years. This investment is expected to increase primary health provider access, reduce backlogs and wait times, further support mental health services, and provide greater health data access.

      canada.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Chicken Little Café (West Bedford), Monasaba (Bayer’s Lake), Swaad Sagaa Indian Cuisine, Sugar Marmalade and Bombay Bazaar grocery (all in Halifax), Indian Spice Land (Spryfield), Iyalode African Wholesale Market (Dartmouth); Closures: Charmed Aroma (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • Annapolis Valley Early childhood educators are concerned that staffing shortages in the pre-primary program are leading to burnout and difficulty attracting staff. The Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education currently have 28 openings with 9 people hired in December.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S. has announced they will train up to 200 emergency medical responders over the next 2 years to help improve emergency care in the province. Training by Medavie HealthEd will start in March 2024 with the first graduating class working by summer. A bridging program will be developed to help some transition to paramedics.

      novascotia.ca
    • Pete's Frootique downtown Halifax workers, represented by the Service Employees International Union, have ratified their first 3-year collective agreement with Sobeys. The deal includes at least a $1/hour raise ranging from $15.45 to $19.57 and a $250 signing bonus.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia regulators have approved a new oyster farm in Antigonish Harbour. Town Point Consulting intends to grow up to 3M oysters a year from three sites spanning 36 hectares.

      cbc.ca
    • Cape Breton regional police officers ratified a new 4-year collective agreement with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality on December 18 affecting 200 officers. It includes a 4% and subsequent annual increases of 4, 3.5 and 3.5% while officers with four or more years of service will get an additional 3.75% in 2024.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-12-29 to 2024-01-04
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Hardisty Brewing, Sephora and Yummy Deli (all in Dartmouth), KIBO Sushi, Anytime Fitness, City Mart, and Meltwich (all in Halifax), El Centro Pizza (Cole Harbour) and Panada Pizza (Musquodoboit); Closures: Coffee Matters (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • Nova Scotia’s minimum wage will increase to $15.20/hr. on April 1, 2024. Moving forward, the rate will increase each April based on the consumer price index plus one percentage point. About 6% of workers worked for minimum wage during fiscal 2022-23 primarily in retail trade and food/accommodation.

      novascotia.ca
    • N.S. Health and U.S.-based company Varian have entered a 10-year multi-disciplinary oncology partnership to provide new, state-of-the-art oncology equipment and software. N.S. Health will invest up to $224M. Varian will open a new Halifax office that will create at least 60 jobs.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government is expanding funding support for the Work-based Trades Practical Assessment program that will increase the supply of skilled trades professionals in the province. The new funding will see about 175 newcomers experienced in construction trades receive support to complete their apprenticeship.

      novascotia.ca
    • In 2023, the N.S. College of Nursing began fast-tracking the licensing process for nurses from seven countries including the Philippines, India, Nigeria, U.S.A., U.K., Australia and New Zealand. N.S. Health also made changes to its onboarding process and has onboarded over 400 nurses since July.

      Cape Breton Post
    • The Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education (AVRCE) is experiencing staffing shortages, with vacancies for permanent and spare bus driver positions. The school board is also actively recruiting janitors, educational assistants, and early childhood educators.

      Saltwire
    • The Public Service Commission's 2022-2023 annual report states that the federal public service grew by 6.5% from April 2022 to March 2023, adding 16,642 new employees. Over 423,000 people applied to externally-advertised public service positions.

      Other Sources
  • Week of 2023-12-22 to 2023-12-28
    • Halifax has exceeded national expectations for a recovery in tourism after a successful 2023 with hotel room sales up 9.2% over 2019 pre-pandemic levels. The strong recovery was aided by large events like The North American Indigenous Games and the World Juniors Ice Hockey Championship.

      citynews.ca
    • The NS Government has lifted the July 15 stop work order on the Donkin coal mine as of December 27. The mine’s operator, Kameron Coal Management Ltd., can resume production if it chooses to but must still hire an independent engineer to review the ground control plan before February 29.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Oaklawn Farm Zoo in Aylesford has closed after 4 decades in business due to retirement.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced it will delay the adoption of new national building standards that were set to begin on January 1, citing labour shortages and supply chain issues as reasons. These include updated national codes for building, plumbing and energy for new buildings.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-12-15 to 2023-12-21
    • Statistics Canada reports that Canada’s inflation rate was steady at 3.1% in November, with mortgage costs, food and rent with the biggest increases. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) was up by 2.5% in N.S, 2.1% in N.L., 1.7% in N.B., and only 0.4% in P.E.I.

      thewave.ca
    • The Lobster Fishers of P.E.I. Marketing Board says the price of live lobster is as high as $11.50 a pound, up from $7.50 last year. Catches were down this year in New England, N.S., and N.B., plus demand is high in the Asian market, followed by the U.S.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government is raising the wages of early childhood educators (ECE) and introducing a comprehensive group benefits and pension package for all those working in the provincially licensed sector. Wages will range from $22.91-$28.78/hr. for ECEs Level 1, 2 and 3, and up to $34.54 for ECEs in leadership roles.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: 2Crows Brewing/Yeah Yeahs Pizza (Halifax), Stubborn Goat (Halifax), Sketti & Ball (Halifax), Vandal Doughnuts (Dartmouth/2nd location), McDonald’s (Timberlea), Pet Valu (Halifax), The Empanada Shop (Halifax), and Dejean European Bakery (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • Joint federal/provincial funding of $582,000 has been announced for four active transportation research and planning projects in the Halifax Regional Municipality led by Vélo Canada Bikes, Saint Mary’s University, the Halifax Regional Municipality, and Cycling Nova Scotia.

      canada.ca
    • The University of King's College will be securing a design team to work on the plans for a new building that would double its student residence capacity, and also include space for a new gym, wellness centre and the university's journalism school.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S Government has announced its new Green Hydrogen Action Plan to help develop the sector in alignment with provincial climate change goals. It supports domestic use and export of green hydrogen with a focus on safety, a skilled workforce, research and innovation, and public engagement.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced over $500M in funding for roadwork and major projects already underway in its 2024-25 Five-Year Highway Improvement Plan. The new work includes a $75M budget increase for gravel road upgrades and rehabilitating paved roads.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $18.3M in funding to N.S. over 4 years to help end gender-based violence including the Peer Outreach Support Services and Education Project ($1M) and the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre ($725k).

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $4,144,807 in funding to support 5 aerospace and defence companies. These include ESL Technology ($2.58M) to create 18 new jobs by end of 2025, Aerotec Engines Ltd. ($500k) to create 10-15 new jobs, I.M.P Group Ltd. ($478k), Modest Tree Media Inc. ($334k), and Spiri Robotics ($250k).

      canada.ca
    • Nine new healthcare professionals have been added to the Digby Collaborative Family Practice team based out of the Digby and Area Health Services Centre including 4 family physicians, 2 nurse practitioners, a registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse and a pharmacist.

      novascotia.ca
    • Nova Scotia Power was given environmental approval to construct a new 345-kilovolt transmission line from Onslow, N.S., to the N.B. border. It will also upgrade the power substation in Onslow. The new lines will help to create a green energy grid.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-12-08 to 2023-12-14
    • The N.S. Government is considering the expanded use of family practice anesthetists (family doctors with additional training and certification in anesthesia) in hospitals following a successful 2-month pilot project at Yarmouth Regional Hospital. There is a national and provincial shortage of anesthesiologists.

      cbc.ca
    • A new study from Downtowns Atlantic Canada Inc. reports that downtown businesses are dealing with security issues, lack of staffing, decreased foot traffic due to remote work, and concerns about repayment of the federal CEBA small business loans.

      globalnews.ca
    • A new research report by the Atlantic Economic Council shows Indigenous businesses contributed 5% of Atlantic Canada’s GDP, over 8% of jobs, and about $3.6B to the economy in 2020. The report identified 660 Indigenous-owned businesses and 2,400 self-employed persons in N.S. as of 2023.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Dental Association is concerned that amid the shortage for dental assistants and hygienists, dental offices won’t able to service the 130k new patients estimated for 2024 in response to the new $13B federal dental care plan announcement. By 2025, N.S. is expected to need an additional 40 hygienists and 70 assistants.

      cbc.ca
    • A new collaborative family practice clinic opened on December 4, 2023, in Eastern Passage that will allow the community’s existing family practice with two nurse practitioners to expand to include a mental health social worker and physician.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Bells Lane Kitchen, Aisle 24, The Wine Spa, and Osmow’s (all in Halifax), BMO (Dartmouth Crossing), Sudz in the City (Cole Harbour), Taquitos (West Bedford), Goldy’s (West Bedford) and Good Earth Coffeehouse (Halifax Chapters); Closures: Noodle Nami (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The Government of Canada and Nova Scotia have announced a combined $2M investment in disaster mitigation infrastructure in Lawrencetown in the Halifax Regional Municipality that includes rebuilding a section of Route 207 along the beach further away from the coast and naturalizing the existing section.

      canada.ca
    • Nova Scotia Works, providing services to job seekers and employers through over 50 employment centres are facing 8-15% funding cuts at in-person employment centres across the province as of January 1, 2024. No details are yet available as it relates to the impact on service delivery and employment.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-12-01 to 2023-12-07
    • The N.S. Government has announced that travel nurses working for N.S. Health, IWK Health or a government-funded long-term care facility can only be hired for a maximum 180-days effective December 15. There are over 350 travel nurses working in Nova Scotia at any given time.

      novascotia.ca
    • Turner Drake & Partner’s new consulting report indicates Halifax needs 17,500 additional housing units to meet current demand and about 31,000 units by 2027. To meet this target, the number of units being built needs to triple to about 9,000 units per year. Developers cite high interest rates and labour shortages as challenges.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Torrid (Dartmouth Crossing), Hot Topic (Halifax Shopping Centre), Chef in the Kitchen (Halifax), Kiyoto Sushi (Halifax), and Red Swan Pizza (Dartmouth); Closures: Incandescent Clothing Company (Bedford), Flora James Shop (Halifax), and Smittys (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • Two new, accelerated Bachelor of Education Programs at Cape Breton University will help increase the number of teachers in the province with the number of funded seats at the university, increasing to 115, from 40. There are about 480 first-year students enrolled in B.Ed. programs in N.S. this year.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Digby-Saint John ferry (MV Fundy Rose) is no longer being considered for temporary redeployment in spring 2024 to service the route between Souris, P.E.I., and the Magdalen Islands. Trucking and tourism operators had expressed concern about the potential impact such a change could have on businesses.

      cbc.ca
    • The Governments of Canada and N.S. have announced to the Canada-N.S Offshore Petroleum Board a shared decision to veto the fundamental decision to issue a $1.5M exploration licence to Inceptio Ltd. that would have given them the exclusive right to explore in a shallow water parcel on the Sable Bank.

      novascotia.ca
    • Millbrook First Nation has partnered with transportation logistics company, Canadian Rail Equipment Works and Services, to develop an inland shipping terminal near Truro (Onslow). The terminal is expected to create about 300 jobs with construction scheduled to begin in 2024.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced 2 new child-care programs, the Minor Infrastructure Program and the Family Home Start-Up Program, which will help create new child-care spaces in licensed not-for-profit child-care centres and family homes across the province.

      novascotia.ca
    • Mersey River Wind Inc., a subsidiary of Roswall Development of Halifax, announced that construction of a major wind farm in Queens County will begin next spring now that the company has secured Crown land near Milton. Turbines are expected to begin arriving in 2025.

      cbc.ca
    • According to Statistics Cananada, 11% of women and 16% of men were self-employed in 2022. The report also stated that 80% of self-employed women and 68% of self-employed men had no employees in 2022.

      ctvnews.ca
    • CBC/Radio Canada announced it will cut about 10% of its workforce or roughly 600 unionized and non-unionized positions, due to financial pressures. Another 200 vacant positions will also be cut. It’s unknown how many layoffs will be in Atlantic Canada.

      vocm.com
  • Week of 2023-11-24 to 2023-11-30
    • Mastermind Toys, the Canadian toy retailer, has filed for creditor protection and intends to close some of its 66 stores across Canada. The company states that it faced a number of challenges such as the pandemic, increased competition, and a poor economy.

      charlottefm.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Fjällräven (Halifax), Dessert Yard (Halifax), Xaymaca Bar & Grill Cole Harbour, Pizza Fiamma (Halifax); Closures: KSD (Dartmouth), The Underground Snax (Barrington St./Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced housing development approvals for Bedford West to enable the development of up to 2,060 new homes that will include apartments, townhouses, semi-attached and single-family units. HRM is receiving federal funding to hire 29 employees for the planning and developing group.

      cbc.ca
    • Alberta energy company Pieridae has officially announced it is abandoning plans for a liquefied natural gas terminal at Goldboro on the province's Eastern Shore and selling its Goldboro subsidiary and associated assets. The move was cited as a strategic pivot towards an Alberta-focused natural gas production and processing business.

      cbc.ca
    • The Town of Wolfville is estimated to need 830 additional housing units within the next 3 years to keep up with demand as it deals with above-average population growth over the past 5 years (21% compared to 5% provincially). The town is seeking funding for consultants and a new staff position to help create 120 units over 3 years.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Forestry Innovation Transition Trust has announced $9.8M for the new Ecologically Sustainable Forestry Equipment Program to support businesses to buy or retrofit equipment for sustainable harvesting operations. The program will be administered by the Nova Scotia Community College.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Construction Association of N.S. has described the provincial housing shortage as a generational challenge due to labour shortages and the rising costs of home building. N.S. is projected to be short 41,200 homes by 2028 and there are currently 2,000-3000 construction job openings across the province.

      cbc.ca
    • According to a new report by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, labour shortages in N.S. have cost businesses about $1B potential lost sales and contracts in 2022. The construction and manufacturing sectors were the most affected and the province estimates it will need 11,000 new tradespeople by 2030.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government recently announced plans for 2,200 additional new and replacement long-term care rooms in Nova Scotia by 2032. Challenges include competition with other major health-care construction projects, skilled labour shortages, increased construction costs, higher interest rates and staffing needs to operate them.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova-Scotia based Vida Living, a real estate company that offers affordable housing, has expanded into the P.E.I. market. The company, which owns 2,000 units in the Maritime provinces, bought 20 apartment buildings in Stratford and Charlottetown.

      cbc.ca
    • Despite the strength of the seafood sector, three maritime seafood companies were forced into receivership in 2023 with TD Bank as a secured creditor. These include Chester Basin Seafoods, Meridien Atlantic and Rocky Coast Seafoods, and P.E.I.’s South Shore Seafoods.

      cbc.ca
    • The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association reports that more than 600 cruise ships came to the region between April and August, with a 28% increase in port calls. The Port of Sydney and Saint John experienced record-breaking activity in 2023.

      charlottefm.ca
  • Week of 2023-11-17 to 2023-11-23
    • P.E.I.-based pharmaceutical company BioVectra has nearly completed its $90M expansion, which will see another 125 people hired. It will open a new biologics fermentation facility and development lab in Windsor, N.S. and Canada's first mRNA vaccine biomanufacturing centre in Charlottetown.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has paused its plan to fast-track wind farms until the framework for offshore areas are in place.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: The Korinoor (Halifax), Taquitos/Cocina de Mexico (West Bedford), Starbucks (Sackville/Superstore), Daisy Jo’s Boutique (Dartmouth), Hey Babe Sports Bar (Bedford/replacing Patrons), Caissie Pizza & Donair (Bedford), Downtown Pizza/Mango Burrito (Halifax), Pizza Delight (Dartmouth); Closures: Score Pizza (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced 2,200 addititional long-term care rooms that will be added or replaced by 2032, in addition to about 3,500 new and replacement rooms expected to be completed by 2027. Construction across the province is set to begin this fall, with 336 rooms expected in three Halifax Regional Municipality communities.

      novascotia.ca
    • A new 3-year collective agreement with paramedics was ratified by members of the International Union of Operating Engineers on November 17. The contract runs until October 31, 2026, and includes a 16.5% classification adjustment, 8.5% cost of living increases and a small retention allowance.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has granted EverWind Fuels a $125M loan to help the company build a proposed green hydrogen production plant in Point Tupper. Some site preparation work has already begun. The project would bring thousands of jobs to Cape Breton and Nova Scotia while helping the area transition away from fossil fuels.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $188M funding to build a new naval training centre at Canadian Forces Base Halifax Combatant Training and Integration Centre – Atlantic. Completion is expected by 2029. The centre is expected to sustain 650 jobs in the Halifax area while being built.

      cbc.ca
    • Workers at the downtown Halifax location of Pete's Frootique have been on strike as of November 18. Sobeys (owners) have announced they are closing this location indefinitely due to the strike while the workers, members of the Service Employees International Union, are seeking pay increases. The Pete's Frootique Bedford location remains open.

      cbc.ca
    • Riverside Lobster International in Meteghan, after halting processing in July, says it will not process lobster this fall and winter, citing lower catches throughout the Maritimes and Maine as the reason in a surprise move that will leave about 100 locals without employment. At peak times Riverside employs about 150 people.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $2.99M annually for the newly opened 50-bed emergency shelter in Dartmouth, which will operate until May 2026. The funding will cover building rental, operating and staff costs, and wraparound services through the non-profit volunteer homelessness organization 902 Man Up.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Nova Scotia-based fuel company, Maritime Fuels, has filed for bankruptcy and PwC has been appointed as the licensed insolvency trustee in charge of dealing with creditors.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Atlantic Recruitment working group is looking to recruit international health-care workers in a more collaborative approach, as opposed to drawing from other provinces. Dubai, India, the Philippines, and Ireland are all potential recruitment sites.

      ctvnews.ca
  • Week of 2023-11-10 to 2023-11-16
    • Combined federal, provincial and municipal funding of $54M has been announced for Transit Cape Breton to purchase 6 new electric buses and build an upgraded bus maintenance and charging facility.

      canada.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: 091 Indian Takeout (Dartmouth), Monasaba (Bayer’s Lake Industrial Park), Vandal Doughnuts (Dartmouth/2nd location), The Pink Piano Café & Lounge (Sackville); Closures: Sprout Therapy (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $1.9M in funding to support staffing, programming and leasing costs on a collaboration with Grafton Developments to create a new long-term supportive housing option in Halifax for women and gender-diverse people experiencing homelessness. YWCA Halifax will provide 24/7 support at the site which is expected to open in December.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Halifax Convention Centre hosted 155 events in 2022-23 and is on track to have its busiest year yet. Combined with the Scotiabank Centre, the two together brought in $105M in economic impact for businesses with 270 events and nearly 680,000 guests. Over 170 events are planned for the convention centre in 2023-24.

      cbc.ca
    • On November 10, after months of work stoppages and layoffs at the Donkin Mine since July, the over 60 remaining mine employees were laid off. Owners Kameron Coal announced they are ending all work at the mine indefinitely while still awaiting provincial approval to resume operations. Overall, 130 people were impacted since July.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced new funding about $3.8M ($750k/year for 5-years) to support Nova Scotia entrepreneurs through startup hub Volta to continue delivering educational programs, mentorship, tools and supports to help startups. Volta was established in 2013 and currently supports 61 resident companies.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Canadian Union of Public Employees – N.S. says 10% of its continuing-care workers quit in the past year amidst an ongoing shortage of nurses and home support workers. They cite ongoing issues including less than full-time employment, out-of-pocket expenses, and compensation. The Victorian Order of Nurses is short about 170 continuing-care assistants and about 100 registered nurses.

      cbc.ca
    • The new Bayers Lake Community Outpatient Centre, N.S.’s first public-private healthcare partnership, is now open in Halifax. It will provide a wide range of appointment-based services such as X-ray, blood work, ultrasound, eye care, orthopedic assessment, rehabilitation, and more.

      novascotia.ca
    • On November 8, 2023, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists reached a tentative agreement with the group representing major production studios. This follows the new contract recently signed by the Writers Guild of America that ended a 148-day strike. N.S. experienced a significant negative impact this summer due to strike-related production delays.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-11-03 to 2023-11-09
    • The Canadian Institute of Health Research is investing $2M in a research project dedicated to making sexual health services accessible in N.L and N.S. pharmacies over the next 5 years. Many pharmacists face resource and staff shortages within their regular workload.

      cbc.ca
    • The Atlantica Centre for Energy has created a new literacy project called Fuel 4 the Future (F4F). The aim is to raise awareness of opportunities in the clean energy sector and create new career pathways in clean hydrogen, biofuels, and renewable natural gas.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Statistics Canada data shows residential construction costs increased by 8.4% in Halifax in the third Quarter of 2023 compared the same quarter in 2022, although increases have slowed over the past few years. Factors include labour shortages, increased build time, supply-chain disruptions, high interest rates and local events such as flooding and wildfires.

      cbc.ca
    • CN and Genesee & Wyoming, which owns the Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway, have announced a partnership aimed at long-term growth opportunities in eastern Canada. The CN investment could affect the provincial subsidy for the Cape Breton line from Point Tupper to Sydney.

      cbc.ca
    • The new Red Spruce Mental Health Centre, operated by Acadia University, recently opened two locations, one at Acadia's Wolfville campus and the other at the Red Door Sexual Health Centre in Kentville. Both locations are expected to be fully operational by early 2024.

      cbc.ca
    • Veterinarians across Canada are increasingly reporting burnout and deteriorating mental health conditions due to elevated stress levels, staff shortages and growing demand for services. Canada has had a shortage of vet technologists, technicians and vets.

      cbc.ca
    • Scotiabank has announced job cuts amounting to 3% of its global workforce and the closure of several branches across Atlantic Canada, predominantly in rural locations, citing a growing preference for online banking. In N.S. closures will include Annapolis Royal, Bridgetown and Shelburne (Spring 2024) and Fairview (Halifax) and New Waterford (November 2024).

      cbc.ca
    • The Keltic Lodge in Ingonish is temporarily closing half of its accommodations and restaurants next year to renovate its 70-year-old main lodge and cottages. The shutdown will affect the resort's temporary foreign workers whose 2-year employment contracts between May 15 and October 31 were not renewed.

      cbc.ca
    • With a provincial work-stop order still in effect for Donkin Mine, the Kameron Coal owned mine has layed off another 15 employees, while the remaining staff of 60 have had their work hours reduced from 5 days a week down to 3. This follows the layoff of 40 miners in July 2023.

      saltwire.com
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Backoos in the 4 pad (Bedford), Gong-Cha (Halifax), Naughty Kitty Café (Inside BAD Dog Cycles/Timberlea), Manilla Thai Grill in the Nine Locks Taproom (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced an additional $2M investment in the Community Housing Growth Fund to create a dedicated stream to support Black-led community housing initiatives. The Community Housing Transformation Centre will administer the grants to approved projects over 3 years.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2023-10-27 to 2023-11-02
    • Everwind Fuels has submitted environmental assessment plans to the provincial government for two of its three proposed wind farms with plans to file the third in 2024. The three projects are Bear Lake (West Hants), Kmtnuk (Colchester) and Windy Ridge (Colchester).

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announded $32M in funding for its new one-time Municipal Capital Growth Program to support priority provincial infrastructure projects under the categories of water and wastewater, accessibility, brownfield redevelopment, and climate change adaptation.

      novascotia.ca
    • The federal government made changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, which will allow employers in seven sectors that have labour shortages, to hire up to 30% of their staff until Aug 30, 2024. Sectors include accommodation and food services, construction, food manufacturing and hospitals.

      Globe & Mail
    • According to the First Atlantic Municipal Report released by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), small businesses want more support from municipalities. They would like to see reduced taxes, less paperwork, and quicker processing.

      thewave.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Sushi Koisho (Dartmouth), ButterMilk (Dartmouth), Chai Samosa (Halifax) and Mavericks Baking (Hammonds Plains).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $5M in funding to repair over 45 flood-damaged trails across the province. The funding will go directly to non-profit trail organizations administered through NS Trails and will be used to pay contractors to repair trails and reimburse community groups for already completed work.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $47.3M to start the new Cellular for Nova Scotia Program to expand telecommunications infrastructure and communications networks throughout the province. Phase 1 will improve cell coverage using existing infrastructure while Phase 2 will close any remaining coverage gaps with new infrastructure.

      novascotia.ca
    • Service Employees' International Union Local 2 representing workers at the Pete's Frootique in Halifax is negotiating its first collective agreement with Sobeys Inc. for higher wages and improved benefits. Pete's Frootique and Fine Foods, with locations in Halifax and Bedford, was sold to Sobeys Inc. in 2015.

      cbc.ca
    • Health departments across Canada are increasingly using nursing agencies to fill shifts that aren’t covered by current staff. Agency nurses get higher pay and have more flexibility, while working beside public system nurses who earn less and are asked to work more.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-10-20 to 2023-10-26
    • The N.S. Government has released its 5-year housing plan “Our Homes, Action for Housing”, representing a projected $1B of investment for the creation of more than 40,000 new housing units. A recent needs assessment report estimated that the current pace of construction will lead to a shortage of 41,200 units by 2027-28.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Nayya Pizza (Halifax/3rd location), 7:40 European Breakfast & Diner Restaurant (Hammonds Plains), Patwari Pizza/Indian Curryhouse (Sackville), New Asian Food Market (Chain Lake), PetValu (Timberlea), Jellies (Halifax), Red Wing Shoes, Curry Hut, Incandescent (all Dartmouth), Rollz Ice Cream (Halifax), and Villa Madina/Mucho Burrito, PZZA.co, Orginal Six Barbershop, Antionette’s Cheesecake (all Sackville); Closures: Big Rays (Fairview), Reitmans (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • Combined Federal/Provincial/Municipal funding of $3.695M has been announced for two projects that will support inclusive recreational infrastructure in Liverpool and provide updates to the Liverpool Community Sports Field, a Mi’kmaw learning trail and a coastline protection project in Western Head.

      canada.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $2.9M in support of 6 N.S.-based innovative life sciences companies to enhance product offerings, scale-up production, create efficiencies and reach new markets. The recipients include Adaptiiv Medical Technologies, Daxsonics Ultrasound, NovaResp Technologies, Sparrow Bioacoustics, Allumiqs and B-Line.

      canada.ca
    • A new stream of Nova Scotia’s Provincial Nominee Program, the Critical Construction Worker Pilot - includes 21 in-demand construction sector occupations, largely focused on trades for as welders, electricians, carpenters, bricklayers, crane operators and heavy equipment operators.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government recently announced it will add up to 5,000 new apprentices to the system in the next 3 years, increase the number of journeypersons by 1,000 a year, and increase the apprentice retention rate to 60% within 5 years at an estimated cost of about $100M over three years.

      novascotia.ca
    • Health administrative professionals represented by the N.S. Government & General Employees Union have ratified a new 5-year contract. The agreement includes 3 years of retroactive increases of 6.5% covering the period of Nov. 1, 2020 to Oct. 31, 2023, followed by 3% and 2% increases on Nov. 1, 2023 and 2024, respectively.

      cbc.ca
    • The Cape Breton-Victoria Regional Centre for Education is working to hire more casual bus drivers to backfill for staff who are ill or away. Officials have noted 22 bus cancellations due to driver shortages so far this year, compared to 3 last year.

      cbc.ca
    • The Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education is actively recruiting new school bus drivers due to a staffing shortage for both spare bus drivers and permanent positions. Drivers usually work a 5-hour split shift and must also complete criminal record and child abuse registry checks.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-10-13 to 2023-10-19
    • Cape Breton University saw its enrolment figures grow by over 3,000 students in the last year, with about 77% of the 9,100 students being international students. The university plans to cap enrolment due to a lack of space, housing and available positions. `

      globalnews.ca
    • New research from KPMG Canada found that extreme weather events this year have impacted nearly 60% of small and medium-sized businesses in Canada. Over 50% of those surveyed experienced a significant rise in overall costs, while 44% reported a direct loss in revenue.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Despite the large construction project in Sydney, where the new NSCC campus is being built, many proposed developments have not materialized. It is expected that with the low vacancy rate, new housing incentives, and lower material costs, projects will begin.

      cbc.ca
    • N.B. and N.S. have reached an agreement with the federal government on phasing out coal and increasing the use of renewable energy to generate electricity by 2030. The plan involves upgraded transmission lines, with an emphasis on wind, solar and nuclear power.

      cbc.ca
    • A wind power report states that Atlantic Canada has the opportunity to become a global leader in renewable energy if it harnesses its offshore wind potential. The Sable Island Bank could ideally handle 1,000 offshore turbines and supply around 70,000 GWs.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Wrap N’ Roll (Sackville), Charger Burger (Sackville), Roy’s Restaurant (Sackville), Freshii (Halifax Shopping Centre), Booster Juice (Cole Harbour), Turkuaz Restaurant (2nd Location/Halifax); Closures: Subway (Burnside) and Dekie’s (Sackville).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. government amended the Health Services and Insurance Act on October 13, to include mental health and addictions care as part of a publicly funded healthcare system. The province has already invested $65M over the past two years.

      novascotia.ca
    • N.S.’s More Opportunities for Skilled Trades program, which was launched back in June 2022 to attract youth into skilled trades has only received 1,810 applicants out of 7,500 expected to qualify. Tradespeople, nurses, and numerous film industry occupations are eligible under the program.

      cbc.ca
    • Health ministers from across Canada have identified its main priorities for health care. These include improving retention, examining training and supply demands, quicker international credential process, easier labour mobility, and improved workforce data.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-10-06 to 2023-10-12
    • According to Statistics Canada, employment levels rose by 64,000 across Canada in September, although the unemployment rate remained at 5.5%. N.B. lost 2,700 jobs, whereas N.S. and P.E.I. added 1,800 and 2,700, respectively.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Lower Sackville will be the location of the first N.S. tiny home community, which will see 52 units built on Cobequid Road. The province will spend $9.4M in the construction of public housing and hopes to house the homeless next summer.

      globalnews.ca
    • Nova Scotia won’t be part of the proposed Atlantic Loop as part of its new clean energy plan, but are planning to add 30% more wind and 5% more solar energy to the grid. The province said the Loop was too costly and wouldn’t be viable for its 2030 targets.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S. paramedics have rejected the latest contract offer from the province, which includes a 20% wage increase over a three-year period. Several paramedics stated the contract didn’t address work-life concerns, as workers often have to work extra hours.

      cbc.ca
    • ACOA will invest over $4.8M in six Annapolis Valley companies to help them grow through automation, expansion and access to new markets. The companies are Scotian Gold, Atlantic Poultry, Nova Agri, Van Meekeren Farms, Eden Valley Poultry and Sustainable Blue.

      canada.ca
    • Serpent Brewing in Spryfield, Pizza Girls on Main St, and all of Kara’s Day Spa locations have closed. Philthy Philly’s has opened on Quinpool Road, Mountain Warehouse has opened in Dartmouth Crossing, and Starbucks is opening on Herring Cove Road.

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. government is launching a pilot project this fall in Sydney, which will see 12 new child-care spaces created with extended hours, specifically aimed at health-care workers. It is hoped it will help with recruitment and retention of health professionals.

      cbc.ca
    • The province is doing a review of a pharmacist pilot project, which currently has 25 pharmacies across N.S. offering free appointments and services for minor ailments. With 315 pharmacies in N.S. it is hoped the service will be expanded based on demand and staff levels.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-09-29 to 2023-10-05
    • N.S., P.E.I and N.L. raised their minimum wage rate by 50 cents on Oct. 1 to $15/hour. N.S. has agreed to increase its minimum wage in line with consumer price inflation plus 1%.

      cbc.ca
    • The Municipality of East Hants is opposed to a proposed expansion of the Mount Uniacke quarry. Northumberland Capital would like to expand the site from four to 40 hectares. There are concerns about traffic, effects on surface water, and blasting.

      cbc.ca
    • Elmridge Farm in Annapolis Valley has invested heavily to construct a stainless steel production facility, but is idle waiting to be certified. Small-scale food processing in Atlantic Canada has declined over 30 years, but can generate needed revenue for farmers.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Bravado Wine Bar (Halifax), Isle at Ease (Halifax), Reiyee Vintage (Halifax), Sugar Marmalade (Halifax Shopping Centre), Pizza Delight (Dartmouth); ; Closures: Kor-B-Q (Clayton Park).

      retales.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced joint Federal/Provincial funding of over $11.9M to support the Kings Transit Authority's purchase of Zero-Emission Buses (ZEBs), hybrid transit vehicles, and related infrastructure.

      canada.ca
    • A combined $83M in federal and provincial funding will go toward the development of more than 200 new public housing units across Nova Scotia. Units will be built in Bridgewater, Kentville, Truro, Cape Breton and in the Halifax region.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2023-09-22 to 2023-09-28
    • The International Graduates in Demand stream of Nova Scotia’s Provincial Nominee Program has been expanded to include paramedics and pharmacy technicians. This allows International students who have graduated from N.S. post-secondary institutions to apply for a work permit and permanent Canadian residency.

      novascotia.ca
    • The federal government will begin its category-based selection from the Express Entry immigration pool this week and begin with agriculture and agri-food occupations. The process will allow Canada to invite those with specific skills and training.

      charlottefm.ca
    • The federal government will begin its category-based selection from the Express Entry immigration pool this week and begin with agriculture and agri-food occupations. The process will allow Canada to invite those with specific skills and training.

      Chronicle Herald
    • A new report says N.S.'s ambulance service saw an increase in average wait times last year from 14 to 25 minutes. The longest delays were recorded at Halifax-area hospitals, where paramedics spent 25% of their time waiting to transfer their patients.

      cbc.ca
    • Destination Cape Smokey in Ingonish is a step closer to building a tree walk and lookout tower as an added tourist attraction. Meetings were held with tree walk architects and officials in Europe over planning rules.

      cbc.ca
    • Thousands of health-care admin professionals across the province are set to picket after being without a work contract for three years and pay raises for four years.

      Cape Breton Post
    • The College of Family Physicians of Canada wants the residency programs for family doctors to increase from two to three years in 2027. While this extra clinical specialty training could better prepare doctors and physicians, it could also add to the shortage of family doctors.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. government will remove the provincial HST from new multi-unit apartment building construction projects, in a bid to address the housing crisis. While the province says it will cost $80-$100M a year, it acknowledges that more skilled labour is required.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S. is expanding its fast-tracked immigration program to include international students who want to become paramedics and pharmacy technicians in order to address the shortage of health care workers. Up to 400 pharmacy techs and paramedics are needed over three years.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $9M to help improve the readiness of designated climate comfort centres. Funding will be used for facility and equipment upgrades, emergency supply purchases and training.

      canada.ca
  • Week of 2023-09-15 to 2023-09-21
    • The Government of Canada has announced around $2.9M for Eden Valley Poultry to help the company modernize its processing, packaging and wastewater systems and adopt an enterprise resource planning system that is expected to increase processing capacity and efficiency.

      canada.ca
    • New Businesses: Adidas (Dartmouth Crossing), Ben & Florentine (Dartmouth) and the new TD Bank (Dartmouth); Closing: John’s Lunch (Woodside).

      retales.ca
    • East Coast Metal Fabrication, based in the Sydport Industrial Park in Sydney, closed in late August 2023 with the layoff of the 10 remaining employees, after over two decades of metal fabrication and construction in eastern Cape Breton. The company was a major employer of welders, equipment operators and other metal workers with peak employment of 50 in 2015/2016.

      Chronicle Herald
    • Cape Breton University administrative and support staff voted in favour of a new tentative collective agreement on Sept. 7, 2023. The 3-year agreement includes wage increases of 4.15%, 2% and 2.25%, respectively and a new pay band that will see wages rise by 8% in year 1. The approximately 90 employees work in finance, admissions and registration, student affairs, library services, IT, and academic support.

      Cape Breton Post
    • The Government of Canada announced joint federal/provincial/municipal funding of over $4.1M to support water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in Windsor. These improvements will increase the access to drinking water and the capacity to treat and manage wastewater and storm water.

      canada.ca
    • A new report from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation concluded that Nova Scotia will need 70,000 more housing units by 2030, in addition to what is already in the works in order to address the affordability gap and increasing population. Developers suggest the biggest barriers are labour shortages, higher interest rates and rising construction costs.

      cbc.ca
    • Two new Centres of Rural Aging and Health will operate from Nova Scotia Community College’s Strait Area campus in Port Hawkesbury and Shelburne campus with the assistance of $425k in provincial funding. The centres are modelled after the pilot centre at the Annapolis Valley campus in Middleton established in 2021.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced over $4.4M for 6 climate change related agricultural sector projects. This includes $2.4M to hire climate adaptation co-ordinators at Perennia Food and Agriculture Corp., the Christmas Tree Council of NS, the Agri-Commodity Management Assoc. and Horticulture NS as well as projects at TransCoastal Adaptations ($1.9M) and NSCAD University ($112k).

      novascotia.ca
    • Four independent senators have released a report that is critical of Canada’s international education program and suggest that designated learning institutions (DLIs) need to be held accountable for their recruitment practices. They would like to see greater protection and support for international students and a national policy developed. Atlantic Canada accounts for 5% of international students.

      Other Sources
    • ACOA announced it will invest $12.6M in core funding to support the 41 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) in Atlantic Canada. CBDCs support economic development in primarily rural areas and help businesses to grow and create jobs.

      canada.ca
  • Week of 2023-09-08 to 2023-09-14
    • A new report by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.(CMHC) states that Canada needs an additional 3.5M housing units by 2030, above and beyond current projections. Immigration, rising incomes, and limited supply are driving demand.

      ctvnews.ca
    • Canada’s military has a vacancy rate of around 10% and recruitment has been unable to keep up. This comes after the Armed Forces relaxed the dress standards a year ago in an effort to attract new recruits. Other measures include offering signing bonuses and shorter contracts.

      cbc.ca
    • A new collaborative family practice clinic opened in Masstown on September 8. The practice shares a care team with the West Colchester Community Health Centre in Bass River. The care team includes nurse practitioners (3), administrative support staff (3), a registered nurse, pharmacist, and social worker. A part-time doctor is set to join in January 2024.

      novascotia.ca
    • There are currently about 2,600 substitute teachers across Nova Scotia and the N.S. Teachers Union anticipates finding available subsitutes will remain challenging this year. Reasons cited include compensation (lowest substitute teacher pay in the region), working conditions, increasing numbers of people leaving the profession and fewer entrants.

      infomedia.gc.ca
    • The CRTC, which regulates Canada's broadcasting system, has approved a new licence to run an FM radio station in Lunenburg. Owner Scott Clements plans to launch the new rock station on the air by mid-2024.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia Health recently posted updated figures that show 142,457 people are trying to find a family practice - a decrease of 9,544 people since the registry was last updated in July. However, the total number is still in excess of 14% of the population as ongoing efforts to boost recruitment and expand collaborative care clinics continue.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced its purchase of the former Wheelhouse Motel in Lunenburg, which will be converted into mixed-income housing for healthcare workers. The site will include 10-12 one-bedroom units plus 6 townhouses at a total project cost of $4.7M.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Dalhousie Centre for Psychological Health pilot project launched on September 12 with $4.5M in funding (over 3 years) by the N.S. Government. In partnership with Dalhousie University, the centre provides mental health and addictions care through clinical psychology PhD students under the supervision of registered clinical psychologists.

      novascotia.ca
    • The federal government made its first municipal agreement under the multi-billion dollar Housing Accelerator Fund, which is part of a new housing strategy. The idea is to offer incentives for municipalities to reduce red tape and allow for quicker construction.

      ctvnews.ca
    • New Businesses/Coming Soon: Fjällräven (Halifax), Daisy Jo’s Boutique (Dartmouth), Harvest (Dartmouth), High Mart (Halifax), Bells Lane Kitchen (Halifax), Sketti and Ball (Halifax) and Pazzo Ristorante & Enoteca (Halifax); Closures: East of Grafton (Halifax) and Bianco Apertivio (Halifax).

      retales.ca
  • Week of 2023-09-01 to 2023-09-07
    • The N.S. Government has announced project funding through two provincial programs to assist municipalities to create inviting spaces and provide job opportunities. These include 27 projects ($569,968) through the Beautification and Streetscaping Program and 14 projects ($311,598) through the Community Works Program.

      novascotia.ca
    • Commercial licence holders in the Maritime baby eel fishery have lost their legal bid to overturn the federal decision to cut the commercial elver quota by 14% and give it to Indigenous bands, without compensation to private licence holders.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Aviyal Indian Kitchen (Sackville), two Starbucks (Sackville), Martha’s Pizza II (Halifax), and Aisle 24 (Halifax); Closures: East of Grafton (Halifax), Hopyard (Halifax), and Peppereka (Burnside).

      retales.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $2M in funding for clean technology growth in Cape Breton that includes Verschuren Centre ($1M) to expand its research centre, Cotex Technologies ($500k) to begin production of its biodegradable fertilizer coating in a North Sydney facility, and Dispersa ($500k) to scale-up production.

      canada.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced nearly $1.2M in funding for Rogers to bring high speed internet to 16 rural communities across Cape Breton that includes over 440 Indigenous households. The funding will be used to install fibre-optic internet with a completion date of spring 2025.

      cbc.ca
    • The Department of Health and Wellness reported that 5.5 additional full-time positions would clear the shortage of midwives in Halifax but funding for midwives in the province has been stagnant for 4 years. There are currently only 16 midwives working at 3 sites - Halifax, Lunenburg and Antigonish.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. government has announced close to $1M through the Recreational Trail Expansion Fund. The funding includes over $580k in capital grants for 27 trails and over $400k in operating funding to support groups managing 23 trails on the provincial rail bed.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2023-08-25 to 2023-08-31
    • The Government of Canada has announced $2.2M in funding to the Ship Hector Society for upgrades to the Hector Heritage Quay in Pictou to help boost long-term tourism growth in the area. Major upgrades at the interpretive centre will include new roofing, windows, doors, and solar panel installation.

      canada.ca
    • Transit Cape Breton is adding 2 new routes and 2 improved routes to its bus service around Sydney starting on September 5, 2023 as ridership in the area hits an all-time high. Growing student enrolment at Cape Breton University is driving the need for the expansion.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S. continues to experience a chronic shortage of child-care spaces as it works on an action plan to access federal funds for child care and early childhood education of $123M (2023/2024), $143M (2024/2025), and $169M (2025/2026). N.S. has created 400 of the 1,500 new child-care space goal and has increased wages for early childhood educators.

      cbc.ca
    • A new wilderness area in Guysborough County - The Archibald Lake Wilderness Area - will encompass 684 hectares of forest, wetland and 3 lakes. Atlantic Mining Nova Scotia Inc. wants to build an open-pit gold mine near the wilderness area using water from one of the lakes and is assessing the potential impact of the new designation.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Peppercorns Eatery (Bedford), Manuela’s Cakery (Bedford), Aly Mae’s Bread Basket (Dartmouth), Xaymaca Grocery (Dartmouth), Virani’s Pizza (Dartmouth), Asado Wood Fired Grill (Dartmouth), Little Luxuries Soapworks (Dartmouth) and JYSK (Bridgewater).

      retales.ca
  • Week of 2023-08-18 to 2023-08-24
    • After years of declining enrolment, N.S. has added over 9,700 students to public schools over the 9-year period from 2014-15 to 2022-23. Over 100 new classroom teachers were hired throughout the province in 2022 for a total of about 10,000 while 60 ESL teachers were hired in the last few years bringing the total to 100.

      cbc.ca
    • Canadian tech companies using the Global Talent Stream (GTS) to recruit foreign workers has dipped 2.8% in the first quarter of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The use of GTS is still above pre-pandemic levels, despite layoffs and hiring slowdowns.

      thelogic.co
    • Canada is seeing a steady influx of international students, with a record 550,150 international study permits issued last year, but more student housing is needed. There is currently no cap on students allowed or requirement for schools to build housing.

      cbc.ca
    • Licensed cannabis producers and retailers continue to struggle due to dropping prices, a saturated market and a heavy tax burden. They are predicting a significant increase in the number of bankruptcies within the next 18 months without any federal level changes to help the industry.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Liquor Corporation’s first-quarter 2023 financial results show total sales down 0.1% to $219.1M, with a 6.7% increase in cannabis sales and a 1.1% decrease in beverage alcohol sales compared with the year prior. Local cannabis led the growth of Nova Scotia products with a 22.2% increase in sales to $9.5M.

      novascotia.ca
    • The quota for the Southwest Nova Scotia/Bay of Fundy herring fishery has been decreased by 11% for 2023 and has dropped by 50% since 2018. Nova Scotia's fishing industry and conservation groups are at odds over the quota. The commercial herring fishery is worth about $19.5M.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Hardisty Brewing Co. storefront location (Cole Harbour), Nayya Pizza (2nd location/Lower Sackville), Planet Fitness (Woodlwan/replacing World Gym), Toys R Us (Bayers Lake); Closures: Coburg Social closed abruptly this week.

      retales.ca
    • Canada’s first offshore wind farm is coming to Nova Scotia off the coast of Goldboro through a partnership between global renewable energy group DP Energy and SBM Offshore, an organization that specializes in building infrastructure at sea at an estimated cost of about $1.5B.

      charlottefm.ca
  • Week of 2023-08-11 to 2023-08-17
    • The Government of Canada has announced that a new commercial whelk fishery will be introduced in spring 2024 in the waters off Eastern Cape Breton. A successful exploratory whelk fishery there supported about 55 jobs and the new commercial whelk fishery is expected to generate more opportunities.

      canada.ca
    • New Businesses: BarBurrito (Tantallon), Tarek’s 2 (Spryfield) and Room + Spaces (Dartmouth Crossing) while Fluevog Shoes is scouting downtown Halifax locations for a new store spring opening. Closures: Oasis (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government recently commissioned a survey of newcomers and a review of existing programs which concluded that there was an insufficient number of settlement workers for the existing workload which has seen settlement organizations serving 55-60% more immigrants than expected.

      cbc.ca
    • The Donkin coal mine run by Kameron Coal is to remain shut with a stop-work order while the N.S. Government reviews operator's safety plan and is satisfied that the mine is safe. As a result, close to 40 employees have been temporarily laid off at the mine and there is no reopening date estimate yet.

      ctvnews.ca
    • Recent job data from Statistics Canada shows that construction employment has decreased by 71,000 across Canada since January 2023. The industry has 80,000 vacancies, which has impacted costs and productivity, while there is a growing need for new homes.

      www.msn.com
    • Joint federal ($2M) and provincial ($1.5M) funding has been announced for the Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial to upgrade the Chéticamp Cultural Quarter - a multifunctional arts facility. Upgrades will include a conference room, art gallery, artist studios, a 200-seat theatre, a community library and a café.

      canada.ca
    • A joint federal/provincial investment of $6.4M will fund the expansion of over 150 new child care spaces in licensed centres and family homes in Southern N.S. that include spaces in Lockeport, Shelburne, Wedgeport, Tusket, Church Point and Digby.

      novascotia.ca
    • Gateway Meat Market (Dartmouth) have submitted a development proposal, now in its second phase, for a large expansion to double its retail space. The store first opened in 2008 and currently employs close to 80 staff.

      cbc.ca
    • The Northumberland Strait fall lobster fishery has opened up after weather delays, allowing boats in southern P.E.I., northwestern N.S. and southeastern N.B. to set their traps. Demand for this season's catch is expected to be high and push up prices.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government Employees Union representing provincial correctional officers says there is a staffing shortage crisis at the Central NS Correctional Centre in Dartmouth - the province's largest jail. Staffing challenges include experienced officers retiring at the same, or faster rate than new recruits.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-08-04 to 2023-08-10
    • The N.S. Government has announced $5.6M to develop a new 2-year physician assistant master’s program at Dalhousie University along with $1.5M in annual funding – the first one in Atlantic Canada. The program is expected to begin in January 2024 and will be open to 24 students with provincial applicants being given priority.

      novascotia.ca
    • As the federal government tries to expand access to dental care through the Canadian Dental Care Plan, its success could be hampered by a shortage of dental staff. Across Canada there is a scarcity of dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and other staff.

      Other Sources
    • The federal government announced a new three-year pilot program, which will speed up the approval process for companies with a track record of using foreign workers. It is hoped it will help with labour shortages, especially in the agricultural sector.

      theglobeandmail.com
    • The average rate for a hotel room in the Halifax area increased by about 20% in 2023 compared to 2022 cited as a response to the significant 17% increase in visitor numbers over the previous year. The occupancy rate in Halifax is 66%, roughly the same as Montreal and slightly lower than Toronto.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced nearly $1M toward three N.S. companies for projects that will help to further Atlantic Canada’s ocean technology innovation and growth. They include Lunenburg’s ABCO Industries, Halifax’s ReelData and Dartmouth Ocean Technologies. The ocean sector is estimated to grow to over $25B by 2030 worldwide.

      canada.ca
    • N.S. Blueberry growers say the recent provincial wildfires will spark new growth as the plants are more resilient than most due to large root systems. Nova Scotia produces between 45-60M pounds of wild blueberries each season and exports over $100M worth a year.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has partnered with online home-sharing platform Happipad to expand their program across the province through a $1.3M investment over 2 years. Happipad matches renters with hosts and staff in Nova Scotia will provide user support.

      novascotia.ca
    • Miawpukek Horizon Maritime Services and EverWind Fuels have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a green fuel transshipment corridor between EverWind’s proposed Burin Peninsula hydrogen project and its Point Tupper facility in Cape Breton. The vessel will be crewed by up to 16 full-time Indigenous mariners.

      vocm.com
  • Week of 2023-07-28 to 2023-08-03
    • Since 2015, N.S. has added nearly 111k new residents for a total population of 1,047,232 as of April 1, 2023, driven largely by immigration and migration from other provinces. Growth over the past year has been the fastest on record since 1951, and current projections suggest the population will surpass 1.15M by 2030.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government and General Employees Union that represents all 17 telehealth associates at the 811 telehealth phone line says staffing shortages coupled with a wage rate of $18.44/hour are leading to burnout. They are employed by Emergency Medical Care Inc. with the current contract expiring in 2024.

      cbc.ca
    • Halifax police are exploring ways expand officer recruitment as the force deals with long-term absences and large numbers of potential retirements. 74 officers are eligible for retirement in 2023, 16 in 2024 and 20 in 2025, with a total of 208 officers eligible for retirement between now and 2029.

      cbc.ca
    • New Businesses: Aroma Maya (Dartmouth), Market Price (Halifax), Spirit Halloween (Bayers Lake), Activate (Dartmouth Crossing), and Macao Imperial Tea (Fairview).

      retales.ca
    • The Cape Breton Regional Hospital (Sydney) is the first location in N.S. outside of Halifax’s QEII Health Sciences Centre to hire someone through the clinical assistant program, which allows physicians who have trained/worked in other jurisdictions who are not yet eligible for their full licence to use their skills to support patient care.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-07-21 to 2023-07-27
    • The N.S. Government has announced close to $2M in water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades for the Town of Antigonish and the Municipality of the County of Antigonish to help better serve the existing community and allow for future development growth.

      novascotia.ca
    • New Businesses: Hallycraft the Búkà, Banh Mi A&B, Tribeca, Flenjor Foods, The Wobbley Duck, The Dukes Public House (all in Halifax), Pizza Delight (Dartmouth), and The Kilted Goat Country Store (Bedford); Closing: Level 8 Nightclub and Katch (Halifax), and The Posh Pearl (First Lake).

      retales.ca
    • A tentative agreement has been reached between the N.S. Government and the 4 unions representing 10,000 nurses in the province. The 5-year contract retroactive to 2020, will see total salary increases over the contract of 21% (nurse practitioners), 15-21% (registered nurses) and 12-17% (licensed practical nurses). The contract also includes other premiums and incentive.

      cbc.ca
    • Doctors N.S. and the N.S. Government have ratified a new 4-year collective agreement for physicians on July 20, 2023 that provides a new compensation model option for family physicians based on hours worked, services provided and number of patients as well as funding to hire allied healthcare providers, such as physiotherapists and dietitians.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced an $8.5M 5-year funding agreement for the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship to assist them to continue to increase the province’s share of the global marine technology sector and support innovators to grow successful companies and create jobs.

      novascotia.ca
    • The new mental health and addictions day hospital is now open in Sydney, Cape Breton. The interdisciplinary team of mental health specialists working there include a psychiatrist, nurses, social workers, an occupational therapist, a recreational therapist and a pharmacist.

      novascotia.ca
    • Nova Scotia Power reported a 16% increase in permit requests over 2022 figures and hire and trained 15 new employees to decrease the wait time for permits. This comes after receiving feedback from electrical contractors about the increased wait times which affect construction projects in the province.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-07-14 to 2023-07-20
    • Statistics Canada released figures showing that Canada’s inflation rate rose 2.8% year over year in June. P.E.I. had the lowest year-over-year increase at 0.2%, while Newfoundland and Labrador’s inflation rate was 1.7%, N.S. was 1.9%, and N.B. was 2.1%.

      thewave.ca
    • EverWind has announced plans to develop three wind farms that are expected to create 650 construction jobs and 30 full-time positions. Proposed sites in Colchester include Windy Ridge ($660M) and Kmtnuk ($190M), while Bear Lake ($170M) is in Hants. Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2024/2025.

      cbc.ca
    • A new collaborative family practice clinic opened in Amherst on June 8, 2023 that will include 2 nurse practitioners, a family practice nurse, a family doctor and rotations by a pharmacist and social worker.

      novascotia.ca
    • New Businesses: Palm Tree Kitchen, Au Liban , Martha’s II Pizza (Halifax), Jessy’s Pizza (Porters Lake), Fledglings & Folk, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Sackville), Homesense (Bedford Commons), Long & McQuade (Dartmouth Crossing); Closing: The Tare Shop (Halifax), Press Play Café and Beaver Bank Pizza (Sackville).

      retales.ca
    • The Government of Canada and the Municipality of the District of Clare have announced joint funding of over $2.9M to renovate the Clare Veterans Centre in Saulnierville. The funding will enable accessibility enhancements, a solar array installation and numerous equipment upgrades and renovations.

      canada.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced approximately $43M for infrastructure improvements and projects related to Hurricane Fiona recovery in Parks Canada administered places on Cape Breton Island that include the Fortress of Louisbourg and Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Sites.

      canada.ca
    • The 2023 North American Indigenous Games officially opened in Halifax on July 16 bringing together about 5,000 athletes, coaches and mission staff from 750 First Nations across the continent.

      cbc.ca
    • Provincial judges have expressed concern about chronic staffing shortages at the Central NS Correctional Facility (Dartmouth) that have resulted in numerous lockdowns. In addition to ongoing recruitment efforts, the province has been developing other workforce initiatives to help improve staffing in correctional facilities.

      cbc.ca
    • Signal Gold has announced a delayed start to the construction of its Goldboro project as a result of changes in government timelines and the lack of availability of investment funds in the public financial markets.

      guysboroughjournal.com
    • Nav Canada, which oversees Canada's air traffic controllers, says it's recruiting and training over 400 new staff in order to address a labour shortage across Canada. During the pandemic Nav Canada cut 720 jobs and terminated its training program.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-07-07 to 2023-07-14
    • Emergency Medical Care Inc., the company contracted by the N.S. Government to provide ambulance service in the province, has hired 53 paramedics in 2023. However, 49 have also left the system, 16 of whom were advanced-care paramedics.

      cbc.ca
    • The Nova Scotia TV and film industry has been impacted with production delays as a result of the Writers Guild of America strike that began on May 2 with the union representing actors set to also strike this week if a deal is not reached. Key issues include wages, residuals and regulations on Artificial Intelligence.

      cbc.ca
    • The Halifax Forum redevelopment project is a step closer to reality as the Halifax regional council voted in favour of the provision of a detailed site and facility design for the project. The redevelopment project cost has increased from $81M in 2021 to an estimated $110M in 2023 due to inflation.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $1.3M for three projects under the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund. These include two energy efficiency projects by two Cape Breton community housing organizations and a third project involving research on climate change’s impact on groundwater and wells.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced over $1.6M in joint federal-provincial funding to support green energy upgrades to the Bayside Travel Centre in Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation. Project works include installing a direct current microgrid energy system.

      canada.ca
    • The N.S. Government and General Employees Union has called on the N.S. Government to open contract wage negotiations early for the 18 telehealth associates employed with Emergency Medical Care Incorporated. They currently earn $17.05-$18.44/hour while HRM employees with similar duties start at $26.90/hour.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-06-30 to 2023-07-06
    • Over 10,000 Nova Scotia RNs, LPNs and nurse practitioners who work in hospitals, satellite clinics and in public health throughout the province's acute and community care sector have been without a contract since November 2020 and have filed for conciliation after recent stalled contract talks.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government and the Halifax Regional Municipality have partnered to move forward with a new, licensed long-term care facility in Dartmouth. The facility, one of seven planned for HRM, will be owned and operated by Northwood and will provide 96 long-term care rooms. All seven are expected to open in 2025.

      novascotia.ca
    • Nova Scotia Farmers have been struggling to maintain and harvest their crops after a rainy start to the summer. The Annapolis Valley, which is home to many farms and vineyards, has seen about 80 mm of rain in the last 10 days - waterlogging crops and washing away pesticides.

      cbc.ca
    • The Electric Vehicle (EV) Association of Atlantic Canada says that with the carbon tax driving up fuel costs, there should be increased interest in people buying EVs. Rebates for EVs can also be as high as $10K in provinces like N.S. and N.B.

      globalnews.ca
    • The Old Sydney Society, a group that offers historical walks and ghost tours in downtown Sydney, is experiencing a staff shortage of tour guides and needs at least 5 additional guides by fall which is beginning of their high season. The shortage currently limits tour numbers and new programming.

      cbc.ca
    • The YWCA Halifax has taken over ownership of Swings Daycare in Elmsdale after the previous owner announced their retirement. The transition comes at a time that the province continues to struggle with a child-care shortage as pressure continues from people in the sector retiring.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Tatamagouche Ice Cream (seasonal location/Dartmouth), Oceanstone Spa (Peggys Cove), Propeller Brewing (Bedford Highway), Latitude 44 (Halifax), and A Fresh New You (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • N.S. Power intends to convert three coal-fired units at the Lingan Generating Station in Cape Breton to heavy fuel oil in 2030 and keep them operating until 2050. The Point Tupper Coal plant will be converted to natural gas in 2029 while Point Aconi and the two plants in Trenton will be retired by 2029.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-06-23 to 2023-06-29
    • Many airlines are struggling to find qualified pilots, due to a limited labour supply and greater demand for air travel. Transport Canada says about 1,100 pilot licences were granted annually prior to the pandemic, compared to under 500 in 2020 and 238 in 2022.

      vocm.com
    • The former Windsor textile mill could soon become part of Mill Island - a larger hockey-themed development by United Gulf Developments. It would include a museum, restaurant, outdoor rinks, and a new building with 164 residential units and commercial/office space. Construction could begin within a year following approval.

      globalnews.ca
    • Ottawa announced a new express entry stream for health professionals in the economic immigration program. Invitations will go to foreign doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, physiotherapists and optometrists to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced funding for a new school to replace Windsor Forks and Three Mile Plains district schools that will fall under the Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education. The new school is expected to open in September 2029.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced the new pilot CCA–Practical Nursing Bridging Program that will offer 25 continuing care assistants currently working in Nova Scotia a free 2.5 year practical nursing diploma program starting in January 2024 to build career advancement opportunities in the sector.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government is contributing $10M toward the new Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax that follows the $1.7M previously provided in 2022-23 for new programs and initiatives at the current centre.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: JUKAI Japanese & Thai (Bedford West), Panada Pizza (Musquodoboit Harbour), Flower Street (Dartmouth), Mind Games (Dartmouth); Closures: Greco (Main Street/Dartmouth), Pizza Girls (Dartmouth), Quality Used Books (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced funding to build a new French first-language school to serve the historic Acadian community of Tor Bay in Guysborough County. Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial intends to open the new school during the 2023-24 school year.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced funding for a new school to replace Trenton Elementary and Trenton Middle School, under the Chignecto Central Regional Centre for Education, which will serve about 280 students. The new school is expected to open in September 2027.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $56,250 in funding to Coastal Gardens, an Indigenous and woman-owned garden centre in Pugwash. The funding will be used to construct two additional greenouses with automated systems that will triple capacity and increase production by 90%.

      canada.ca
    • The Canadian Union of Public Employees says it is relieved that after months-long shortage of 911 dispatchers Cape Breton Regional Municipality has hired 2 new dispatchers in training, 6 more in the final hiring stages, and another 16 candidates being interviewed. The positions have been changed from part-time to full-time.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $6.4M in funding for the design and construction of a new 50-km coastal hiking trail, “The Seawall Trail”, within the Polletts Cove-Aspy Fault Wilderness Area north of the Cabot Trail. It will include huts and bridges, as well as marketing, communications and engagement with local Mi’kmaw communities.

      novascotia.ca
    • Doctors Nova Scotia have reached tentative agreements with the Provincial Government on new 4-year contracts for 3,400 doctors in the province. Details about the contracts to be released upon ratification.

      cbc.ca
    • The union representing Halifax Regional Police officers reported that in the past 6 months there were 20 resignations, all of which went to the RCMP, and 10 retirements. Reasons for the shortage include burn out, compensation, lack of training/career opportunities, and competition from other municipalities and the RCMP.

      cbc.ca
    • About 5,000 Nova Scotia health-care workers represented by three unions have voted overwhelmingly to reject the tentative agreement with the provincial government reached back in April. It includes clerks, equipment operators, administrative assistants, transcriptionists and health record technicians in hospitals.

      cbc.ca
    • Fisheries and Oceans has announced that it will double the redfish experimental quota in Atlantic Canada, but N.S.-based Ka'le Bay Seafoods states that there is already too much redfish in the market and this will cause the price to drop.

      Telegram
  • Week of 2023-06-16 to 2023-06-22
    • Over 35,000 members of the Public Service Alliance of Canada employed at the Canada Revenue Agency have ratified new collective agreements with the Treasury Board of Canada. The deal includes wage increases of 12.6% over 4 years and protections against contracting out.

      vocm.com
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: The Good Robot beer garden (Halifax), MediTerra Grocery (Bedford), Mind Games (Dartmouth), Stories (Halifax), Charger Burger/Wowly (Sackville) and Yilan (Halifax); Closures: Shawarma King (Sackville), Qiu Brothers (Halifax), and Wasabi Grill (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • The Government of Canada will invest over $3.7M to construct a new facility for the Pictou County Sports Heritage Hall of Fame in Trenton. The facility will include a community room, kitchenette, and technology to support local business activities.

      canada.ca
    • The N.S. Government has unveiled a new 5-year school capital plan worth nearly $1B which includes $707.2M in new funding. The plan includes four replacement schools including one slated for New Germany and one for Porters Lake plus two in yet to be announced locations.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. government is investing over $5.1M to improve public transportation services in the province. The funding will assist 29 municipalities and community organizations in purchasing vehicles, supporting operations and planning, and enhancing transportation accessibility.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. government has announced $3.2M to fund eight new Integrated Youth Services sites that will offer a range of supports, including mental health, social, and education services as well as employment assistance.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has proposed a $4.5B loan to N.S. for the Atlantic Loop, which has a $6.8B overall capital cost, to expand the electrical grid connections between Quebec, N.B., and N.S. to increase access to renewable electricity. N.S. is concerned about loan repayment and continues to explore alternatives such as offshore wind and tidal power.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia has announced 4 new affordable housing projects. The developments include Antigonish Affordable Housing Society (14 units/Antigonish), Affirmative Ventures (6 units/Westphal), One World Building Association (32 units/Hammonds Plains) and Spryfield Social Enterprise and Affordable Housing Society (48 units/Spryfield).

      novascotia.ca
    • The union representing police officers say the Cape Breton regional police are facing severe staffing shortages, with some shifts up to 40% understaffed and officers working 18-hour shifts. Recruitment efforts have been underway and 8 new officers are expected to start this summer.

      cbc.ca
    • Halifax Transit service reductions introduced in February, will now continue indefinitely due to ongoing staff shortages. Despite progress on recruitment and hiring, there were still 42 vacancies for conventional bus operators at the end of March, with 598 of 640 positions filled.

      cbc.ca
    • New research by TD Bank has found that more women with young children are joining the Canadian labour force, due to more flexible work environments and better access to child care. The participation rate has increased to 78.8%, since the summer of 2020.

      Globe & Mail
  • Week of 2023-06-09 to 2023-06-15
    • Over 1800 workers at the Halifax Regional Centre for Education represented by CUPE have reached a tentative contract agreement with the province. It includes educational assistants, early childhood educators, student support workers, community outreach workers, school library specialists, and others.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced a $2M investment to help community groups, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations make needed upgrades to recreation facilities. The funding will assist 46 projects in total.

      novascotia.ca
    • The NSLC has released its fiscal 2022-2023 year-end financial results reporting a 6% increase with $860.7M in total sales. Alcohol sales increased by 4.3% while cannabis sales experienced a significant 9.3% increase. Eleven new cannabis locations were added bringing the total to 48 stores.

      citynews.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced joint federal-provincial-municipal funding of over $8.3M to upgrade Chester’s wastewater collection system and treatment plant. The upgrades will increase capacity and provide wastewater service to a new housing development project in the community.

      canada.ca
    • The national unemployment rate rose to 5.2%, the first increase since last August. Nova Scotia had a net decrease of 5,200 jobs and its unemployment rate fell to 5.7% with fewer people in the labour force.

      charlottefm.ca
    • APEC reports have identified over 500 major capital projects in the region this year, with an investment value of $225 billion, which is 48% higher than in 2022. There are concerns about a shortage of labour and worker retention, due in part to lack of housing and healthcare issues.

      charlottefm.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Vans (Halifax), Mera Café (Halifax), 2 Crows Brewing (Halifax), Osmow’s (Bayers Lake), Red Wing Shoes (Dartmouth), Villa Madina (Sackville), and Mucho Burrito (Sackville); Closures: GoodFare Café (Halifax).

      retales.ca
  • Week of 2023-06-02 to 2023-06-08
    • Two daycares near Halifax have been destroyed as a result of the recent wildfires. These include ForestKids Early Learning, also known as Hammonds Plains Children's Centre (82 children) and Giant Steps (Upper Tantallon). The loss has exacerbated the existing provincial shortage of child-care centres.

      cbc.ca
    • Marco Group Ltd. was awarded the $45.7M contract to build the replacement for St. Joseph's-Alexander McKay Elementary (Halifax), while RCS Construction was awarded the $37.8M contract for the new Conseil Scolaire Acadien school (Clare), which is expected to be ready for the 2024-25 school year.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Cha Baa Thai (Bayer’s Lake), Mezza’s (Dartmouth), Nine Locks (Waverley), El Este (Scotia Square-Halifax), Banh Mi A&B (Halifax), Cowboy Bar & Grill (Halifax) and Tarek’s Café (Spryfield); Closures: The Foggy Goggle (Halifax) and Ray’s Lebanese (Burnside).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government is assessing the wind power industry’s interest in putting commercial offshore wind turbines in waters under provincial jurisdiction in sites such as Chedabucto Bay, Mahone Bay and St. Marys Bay. Projects are expected to take 8-10 years to develop after a seabed licence is awarded.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-05-26 to 2023-06-01
    • The Nova Scotia Fruit Growers' Association states that many peach, plum and nectarine trees were severely damaged after an extreme cold snap in February, which will impact crop volumes. Stone fruits make up less than 5% of the N.S. tree fruit orchard industry.

      cbc.ca
    • Ottawa has launched a category-based selection for Canada’s economic immigration management system, Express Entry. Special focus will be on workers with French or experience in healthcare, trades, transport, agriculture and STEM professions.

      canada.ca
    • The Department of Natural Resources has announced a new legislation that will enable Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador to explore the potential of offshore wind development. Canada’s East Coast has significant potential for growth and financial investment.

      nationalpost.com
    • Fisheries and Oceans have extended the closure of the baby eel fishery in the Maritimes for another 45 days. The extension takes place amid ongoing concerns over conservation and poaching. Fishery officers have made over 110 arrests since the fishery closed in mid-April.

      globalnews.ca
    • The ForestKids Early Learning in Yankeetown was destroyed from the wildfire that has been burning out of control around the Hammonds Plains area. The couple that run the daycare stated their intention to rebuild.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Stillwell Brewing (Halifax), Harnois Énergies (Dartmouth), Zen House (Halifax), Scotiabank (Larry Uteck Boulevard), Caissie Pizza (Bedford Highway), Meltwich (Halifax); Closures: Into The Wild pet store (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • The launch of an expanded ferry service to Tancook Islands will begin in the fall of 2024 after the completion of a new dock and facilities in Blandford. A.F. Theriault and Son (Meteghan) was awarded the $10.6M shipbuilding contract in 2021 with the ferry expected to be completed by summer 2024.

      cbc.ca
    • A new survey from BDO Debt Solutions reports that over 25% of Canadians are considering taking on extra work (or a second job) to pay down their debts. It also states that about a third of Canadians find themselves so deep in debt that they are not sure what to do about it.

      thewave.ca
    • Construction has begun on a new $48M rail line project that will connect Halifax's south-end container terminal with the Fairview Cove terminal by 2026. The project will take most transport truck traffic out of downtown Halifax. In 2022, there were over 25K jobs connected to activities at the Port of Halifax.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-05-19 to 2023-05-25
    • The Association of Nova Scotia Midwives say the lack of educational opportunities is driving the midwife shortage. There is currently no formal midwifery training program in Atlantic Canada. In N.S., the province funds 16 positions, but has two temporary positions that remain unfilled.

      cbc.ca
    • The latest assessments from Fisheries and Oceans Canada states that the Maritime lobster population is strong and the fishery is sustainable, despite warming ocean temperatures. Lobsters can tolerate a wider range of temperatures than other species.

      cbc.ca
    • In March the number of Canadians receiving jobless benefits through Employment Insurance fell to a record low, as the labour market remained tight. This was the lowest number of regular EI beneficiaries going back to 1997.

      theglobeandmail.com
    • The N.S. Government has created a new department, the Department of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions, to focus on digital services and cybersecurity. Staff from the Nova Scotia Digital Service will move to the new department which will employ 798 employees with an annual budget of $229.1M.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Walter’s Snack Bar (Halifax), Virani’s Pizza (Halifax), Sugar Fix (Halifax), Daily Grind (Halifax), and Toys R Us/Babies R Us (Chain Lake); Closures: Flower Child (Halifax) and Budapest Bisztro (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced a new francophone school for the Eastern Shore to serve students from pre-primary to grade 8 to replace École des Beaux-Marais as part of the plan to update aging schools. The school is expected to open in September 2027 though the site has not yet been selected.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced joint federal-provincial funding of over $1.5M to modernise the Village of St. Peter’s drinking water infrastructure.

      canada.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced joint federal-provincial funding of over $9.7M to build new water and wastewater infrastructure in Kentville. This will increase capacity to treat and manage wastewater and stormwater while opening up new land to build housing in Kentville.

      canada.ca
    • Staffing shortages at Nova Scotia jails have escalated to the point where inmates are going to court with Charter rights challenges. New hirings have been mostly offset by departures due to the high stress environment while the provincial collective agreement for correctional officers doesn't expire until 2024.

      cbc.ca
    • WestJet and the Air Line Pilots Association (union) representing its pilots reached a last-minute deal on May 18, averting a strike planned for the following day. Key issues addressed in the tentative agreement include job security, working conditions and wages.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-05-12 to 2023-05-18
    • A new program, called the early maintenance mobilization project, will soon be rolled out at regional hospitals across the province. As a result, 45 new positions in recreation or rehabilitation therapy will be distributed among regional hospitals by September.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has reported that 168 doctors (78 family doctors and 90 specialists) have started practising in the province from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. NS Health hired 155 of them while IWK Health hired 13 and the net gain was 86 physicians.

      novascotia.ca
    • Video game design company Ubisoft Halifax is expanding to a new studio downtown. There are more than a dozen video game studios operating across Nova Scotia, employing over 300 people, with 80 of those employed by Ubisoft. The move is seen as indicative of the growing video game industry here.

      ctvnews.ca
    • Nova Scotia shellfish farmers will now be allowed to add kelp to aquaculture leases as a new report suggests the industry could be worth $40M in the province within 3-5 years. Kelp can be processed and used as an additive to food, health and beauty products.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced six new long-term care facilities being built in Halifax Regional Municipality that will add 720 beds to the province by 2025. The locations include Dartmouth (2), Bedford (2), Tantallon (1) and Lower Sackville (1). Construction has already begun at some of the sites.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Tribeca Bistro, Bar & Café (Halifax), EatGRK (Halifax), Adidas (Dartmouth Crossing/October), Indi’s Shoetique (Bedford), Wild Things (Bedford), Cyclesmith (Dartmouth), The Fog Company (Halifax), and Rumi Coffee Company (Halifax); Closures: Lindt (Clayton Park location).

      retales.ca
    • Sustainable Marine Energy, a firm that hoped to create tidal power from the Bay of Fundy tides is winding up operations due to what it claims as excessive regulatory hurdles from the federal Fisheries Department. The company is placing its Canadian subsidiary into bankruptcy.

      cbc.ca
    • The Amalgamated Transit Union Local 508 has signed a new 4-year contract that runs until August 2025. The contract is retroactive to Sept. 1, 2021, and will see Halifax Transit operators receive a wage increase of 3% each year and addresses other issues training money and wage parity between drivers of accessible and conventional buses.

      cbc.ca
    • Construction is set to begin on the new Halifax Infirmary Site of the QEII Health Sciences Centre after the N.S. Government reached an agreement with Plenary PCL Health. The agreement covers initial site prep work for the acute care tower, which will have 216 beds, 16 operating rooms, an intensive care unit and a new emergency department.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada through ACOA, has announced $2.8M in funding to help 4 cleantech start-ups and a not-for-profit energy efficiency organization create sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. These include Rayleigh Solar Tech, Graphite Innovation and Technologies, Prosaris Solutions, Arolytics and EfficiencyOne.

      canada.ca
    • The N.S. Government announced $4M to fund an additional 180 licenced practical nursing seats at 6 N.S. Community College campuses and establish a nursing program at Acadia University. The Acadia program will launch in September 2023 with 21 seats before growing to 63 a year. Both institutions will require more faculty.

      cbc.ca
    • The Nova Scotia College of Nursing has seen a significant influx of applications since the introduction of fast-tracked licensing for out-of-province nurses at the end of March and some international nurses at the start of May. As of May 16, the college has received 10,526 applications.

      citynews.ca
    • Under interim understandings with the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans, three Cape Breton Mi'kmaw First Nations (Potlotek, We'koqma'q, and Eskasoni) will fish during the commercial season under renewed moderate livelihood understandings. The season is now open around Cape Breton and closes in mid-July.

      cbc.ca
    • Restaurants Canada is concerned about the federal deadline of Dec 31, for restaurants to pay back their COVID-19 loans. According to the association bankruptcies are up 116% since 2022, as businesses face rising costs, labour shortages and supply constraints.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Dalhousie University (Halifax) has announced plans for a new $12M ocean science centre expected to open in 2025. The project is being developed in collaboration with Discovery Centre International and will become a destination for students, tourists and the public.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-05-05 to 2023-05-11
    • Northern Nova Scotia will see over 300 new child-care spaces in licensed centres and family homes in 2023 as a result of combined federal-provincial funding as part of the 1,500 new, licensed child-care spaces planned for N.S. It includes 50 spaces at Pictou County’s new YMCA child-care centre scheduled to open this fall.

      novascotia.ca
    • Cape Breton will see over 300 new child-care spaces in licensed centres and family homes in 2023 as a result of combined federal-provincial funding. This is part of the 1,500 new, licensed child-care spaces planned for N.S. and includes 50 at the new child-care centre at Cove Guest Home Community Lodge (Sydney).

      novascotia.ca
    • Over 1800 workers at the Halifax Regional Centre for Education represented by CUPE are on strike as of May 10 after failing to reach an agreement with the province. It includes educational assistants, early childhood educators, student support workers, community outreach workers, school library specialists, and others.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Centrall (Halifax), Labels (Dartmouth), Go Bong (Halifax), Lilac and Thistle (Halifax); Closing: Uncle Leos Brewery (Pictou), Heartwood (Quinpool location only).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government’s recent $10k bonus offer to nurses who left the province’s healthcare system has resulted in 148 retired, casual and travel nurses accepting permanent positions in the publicly funded system for at least 2 years. As a direct result, 34 hard-to-fill positions (posted for at least 90 days), are now staffed.

      novascotia.ca
    • Clean Foundation will receive $5.4M in provincial funding to deliver new community and homeowner programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for climate change. Most of the funding is for the Community Climate Capacity Support Program where climate change co-ordinators will assist communities with their projects.

      novascotia.ca
    • Nova Scotia farmers will receive a 25% increase in funding support through a new federal-provincial funding agreement. The new Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership will invest $46.25M over 5 years in Nova Scotia’s agriculture sector and focus on 5 key priorities including helping them adapt to climate change.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government, under the Land for Housing Initiative, is providing Valley Roots Housing Association with provincially owned land in New Minas for the development of a 24 unit co-operative housing development with an anticipated construction start date of early 2024.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2023-04-28 to 2023-05-04
    • A recent RBC report suggests providing permanent immigration status to over 24,000 general farm workers and 30,000 farm operators over the next decade could help address the looming industry labour shortage. The N.S. Federation of Agriculture says the province could have a shortage of 2,600 farm workers by 2029.

      cbc.ca
    • The Atlantic Physician Registry officially launched on May 1 in the four Atlantic provinces. Physicians licensed in any of the four provinces can now opt in to the registry and practise in another Atlantic province.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: The Opus Cafe (Cherry Brook), The Bread Lounge Bakery’s (2nd location/Burnside), PetValu (Halifax), Au Liban (Halifax), Simply Put (Halifax), Dessert Yard (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • Construction is underway on a $6.5M expansion of the Clare Health Centre in Meteghan River. The project will accommodate up to 5 additional doctors, physiotherapy services and study space for medical learners. The centre currently has 9 doctors, a family practice nurse, blood collection, mental health and addictions services.

      cbc.ca
    • Initial combined Federal and Provincial Government funding of $18M over 2 years has been announced for mental health, grief and bereavement services in Cumberland, Colchester and Hants counties. Positions will include grief and bereavement specialists, mental health clinicians, nurse practitioners and outreach workers.

      canada.ca
    • Meridien Atlantic Fishing and Rocky Coast Seafoods (Comeauville) has gone into receivership and is currently selling assets that include 20% of the Canadian silver hake quota after closing the fish plant back in February 2022. This is the second collapse of a silver hake business in 10 years, as Blue Wave Seafoods (Port Mouton) closed in 2013.

      cbc.ca
    • Dalhousie University and the N.S. Government are working to establish a training program for physician assistants with a goal to have the program ready for the 2023-24 academic year with up to 24 seats. Physician assistants are advanced practice clinicians who practise under the supervision of a licensed physician.

      cbc.ca
    • The union representing the 35,000 employees of CRA has agreed to a tentative deal with the federal government. The deal includes a 12.6% wage increase over four years and a lump-sum pensionable payment of $2500, as well as other arrangements.

      cbc.ca
    • Treasury Board has reached a tentative agreement with PSAC and its 120,000 federal government workers. The deal includes a 12.6% wage increase over four years, a lump sum payment of $2500, and additional language on remote work.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-04-21 to 2023-04-27
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Tatamagouche Creamery (Dartmouth), Windsor Street Diner (Halifax), JK’s Pizza (Sackville), Cook’s Broaster Chicken (Sackville); Closures: National Exchange (Dartmouth), Booster Juice (Scotia Square-Halifax), Heartwood (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government is investing $14M to open a first-of-its-kind clinic in Atlantic Canada in the former Hilton Hotel on Wyse Road (Dartmouth) that will also continue to operate as a shelter. It will include a wellness co-ordinator, continuing-care co-ordinator, community outreach worker and other healthcare professionals. All current hotel staff have been offered alternate employment.

      novascotia.ca
    • More affordable housing options are coming to Windsor under the provincial Land for Housing Initiative. The proposed development with building partner DORA Construction includes 137 units with net-zero design elements for energy efficiency with 42 units to be constructed in Phase 1 and anticipated to be ready in 2-3 years.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Sydney Airport Authority says officials are working to address concerns about the lack of flights in and out of Sydney with only one airline remaining (Air Canada) and no routes between Sydney and Halifax. However, while demand is up for more flights, airlines continue to face staffing and equipment shortages.

      cbc.ca
    • The Federal and Provincial Governments have announced a joint investment of $11.88M to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure in Yarmouth, the Municipality of the District of Clare, Mahone Bay and Digby.

      canada.ca
    • Long hours/burnout, on-call time, and ongoing staff shortages are taking their toll on the veterinarian profession. There are no emergency animal hospitals in Cape Breton or most other rural parts of the province and many veterinary clinics have agreements with other clinics to share emergency after-hours services.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada has signed an agreement with N.S. First Nations chiefs that will help transform the design and delivery of health services for the Mi’kmaq population throughout Nova Scotia. The end result will see the delivery of health services through Tajikeim?k, a Mi'kmaw health and wellness organization guided by the 13 chiefs and the Mi'kmaq Grand Council.

      cbc.ca
    • $7M in funding through the Canada-N.S. Early Learning and Child Care Agreement has resulted in about 500 new and planned child-care spaces within the Halifax Regional Municipality. New spaces have opened at the East Preston Childcare Centre, The Cunard Street Children’s Centre and the Edward Jost Children’s Centre in Spryfield with several more expansions planned for the coming months.

      novascotia.ca
    • The South Shore will see 129 new child-care spaces in licensed centres and family homes as a result of $2.7M in joint Federal-Provincial funding. The expansions include The YMCA Child Care Centre (Bridgewater), Through the Years Day Care (Hubbards), Family Matters (Lunenburg County), Lunenburg Day Care Centre and more.

      novascotia.ca
    • Through a $1.2M investment from the N.S. Government, The Community Pharmacy Primary Care Clinic program will expand to 26 locations from 12 by the end of May. Pharmacists in these clinics will be able to treat and prescribe medication for patients with common illnesses or chronic diseases.

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2023-04-14 to 2023-04-20
    • $47.1M in joint federal and provincial funding have been announced for new interchange and connector roads on Highway 101 to create a more direct route for Michelin plant truck traffic. The new Exit 14A is expected to be complete in 3 years and will fall between Coldbrook and Berwick.

      cbc.ca
    • The snow crab industry in Cape Breton is experiencing 15-year low wharf prices ($2.25/pound), which could force out some snow crab harvesters. The industry cites inflation, problems in the economy and lower consumer spending as factors coupled with rising fuel, overhead and wage costs.

      cbc.ca
    • Dartmouth-based start-up, Graphite Innovation & Technologies, announced $10M in financing to take the next step to scale up production of its marine paint business and are planning to move into a new significantly larger facility in Halifax than their current space at the technology hub in Dartmouth.

      cbc.ca
    • The impending closure of a major Quebec pork plant is expected to impact the pork industry in Atlantic Canada. With no federally regulated hog processor in Atlantic Canada, the closure will cause an oversupply in the Atlantic region.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Twist Bar & Lounge (Halifax), The North Grill House, Duck King, Macao Imperial Tea, Ala Eh and Comfort Foodies (Fairview), Mozzarrito (Cole Harbour), Wrap N’Roll and Royal King (Sackville), Smokehouse (Halifax), Curry Hut and Activate (Dartmouth); Closures: Trattoria da Claudio (Halifax) and Mary Janes (Halifax/Sackville/Sydney).

      retales.ca
    • Federal staff that belong to the Public Service Alliance of Canada, were walking the picket line on Wednesday after failing to reach a deal with their employer. Striking members include 120,000 Treasury Board and 35,000 Canada Revenue Agency employees.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Canada’s national unemployment rate was at 5% in March and a labour boom is being seen across the country. For the first time ever there were eight provinces that had unemployment rates below 6%. The labour participation rate was also a healthy 65.6%.

      theglobeandmail.com
    • A tentative agreement between CUPE and the N.S. Government has been reached for 5,400 provincial educational support workers that includes bus drivers, cleaners, maintenance staff, educational program assistants and early childhood educators.

      cbc.ca
    • Fisheries and Oceans Canada has shut down the elver fishery in N.B. and N.S. for 45 days. There were conservation and safety concerns, after reports of violence and overfishing by unauthorized harvesters. Elvers have grown in value in recent years.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada announced $2.6M in funding to support the construction of a Centre of Excellence in Acaciaville focused on the African Nova Scotian community that will provide early childhood educational and after-school programming, a seniors’ space, skills and economic development and more.

      canada.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $22M in funding under the National Trade Corridors Fund, to enable internal trade activities, including agricultural exports, in Annapolis Valley First Nation and in Kings County. This effort is expected to support the development of a new business park.

      canada.ca
  • Week of 2023-04-07 to 2023-04-13
    • The Nova Scotia government has spent $34M to purchase an unfinished hotel in Bedford and will spend another $15M to convert it into a transitional health-care unit. A similar facility is also planned for Bayers Lake to help free up hospital space.

      cbc.ca
    • CUPE's N.S. School Board Council of Unions says its 5,400 workers could go on strike next week if wage demands aren’t met. Workers include bus drivers, cleaners, maintenance staff, educational program assistants and early childhood educators.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia has given approval to Bear Head Energy to build a green hydrogen production and export plant in the Point Tupper Industrial Park. The company plans to start construction in 2024 and begin production in late 2027.

      cbc.ca
    • The Public Service Alliance of Canada and its roughly 155,000 workers could go on strike by mid-April, if contract negotiations fail. The processing of immigration applications, employment services, and travellers at the airport and border could be impacted.

      thewave.ca
    • A new report from the Royal Bank of Canada states that around 40% of Canadian farm operators are expected to retire over the next decade. It also expects a shortage of 24,000 general farm, nursery and greenhouse workers over that time.

      thewave.ca
    • The new $18M Halifax Commons pool and pavilion is set to open this summer. Halifax Regional Municipality is currently hiring staff to work at the aquatics facility.

      cbc.ca
    • Guys Frenchys opened a new location in Hammonds Plains and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is coming to Windmill Road. All Cleo and Ricki locations in HRM will close at the end, except for Ricki’s in Dartmouth. The restaurant Primal has also closed.

      retales.ca
    • Construction Safety Nova Scotia has launched a new campaign to encourage the use of fall protection on sites across the province. In 2022, 26% of time-loss claims in construction involved falls, which resulted in 15,000 days lost due to workplace injury.

      globalnews.ca
  • Week of 2023-03-31 to 2023-04-06
    • Registered tourist accommodations in Nova Scotia has increased, now that rentals such as Airbnb have to register. Of the 2,988 accommodations registered, hotels account for 13%, rooms in a home – 20%, cottages and cabins – 31%, and entire condos and homes – 36%.

      cbc.ca
    • Cape Breton University has raised $84M to build a green facility for teaching and research, which will use geothermal and solar power. The new building will house laboratories, classrooms, research facilities and student services.

      cbc.ca
    • Ottawa is giving 14% of the Maritime fishery for baby eels (or elvers) to First Nations in N.B. and N.S. without compensating commercial licence holders who could lose millions. The cut will allow the treaty right to fish for a moderate living.

      cbc.ca
    • Calgary-based Pieridae Energy is asking for a five-year extension from the U.S. government to export U.S.-sourced natural gas to a proposed LNG terminal in Guysborough County. The project would depend on N.B. fracking for natural gas, as a main source.

      cbc.ca
    • The Canadian military has a new recruitment program, called the Naval Experience Program (NEP), where you can join on a one-year contract. The program aims to attract civilians to the Navy, streamline enrolment, reduce training time, and develop sailors.

      thewave.ca
    • The minimum wage in Nova Scotia increased from $13.60 an hour to $14.50, as of April 1. The province will raise it again to $15 an hour in October, which will match the minimum wage in P.E.I. and Newfoundland and Labrador.

      cbc.ca
    • According to a couple of employees, Dartmouth's DoubleTree waterfront hotel is slated to be converted to a full-time shelter next month. Nearly all of the roughly 100 hotel staff , including kitchen, maintenance and housekeeping, will be laid off.

      Telegram
    • The Prestotea has opened in Halifax’s Bayers Lake and Booster Juice is opening a Forest Hills Parkway location. Coming to Burnside is a new Tesla dealership and service centre, as well as a CycleSmith. UMAI, Freshii, and Thai Ivory are opening new locations.

      retales.ca
    • CBRM has given approval to New Dawn Enterprises to build 24-units of supported living housing on the corner of Charlotte and York in Sydney. The building will be built within 19 months at a cost of $5.2M, but will receive $5M in federal funding.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-03-24 to 2023-03-30
    • Pictou Lodge Beach Resort has announced that it will not re-open this summer as planned, after being heavily damaged by Hurricane Fiona. The owners will not continue to operate the business, which employs roughly 80 to 90 people.

      cbc.ca
    • The federal government is opening up a new immigration stream this summer, which will bring up to 2,000 refugees per year to Canada. The new program will be dedicated to refugees, but will focus on the skills they're bringing to Canada as well.

      Telegraph Journal
    • Some employers in rural Cape Breton state that they still struggle to find and retain workers, despite adding employee perks. Transportation is often an issue in rural areas, while others reported quit for another job or work long enough to qualify for EI benefits.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Starbucks (Spryfield), Sugar Marmalade (Halifax), Freak Lunchbox (Dartmouth), Desto Binz (Dartmouth); Closures: Spryfield Head Shoppe, PizzaTown (Halifax), O’Dells Gluten Free (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • A report from the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) shows that not-for-profit CEOs average pay went up by 8.4% in 2022, while senior managers increased 1.2%, and other staff rose 2.0%. Salaries increased the most for those that changed jobs.

      charlottefm.ca
    • The Canadian government released a report titled - Developing Greater Labour Protections for Gig Workers. Steps will be taken by the government to update the Canada Labour Code to help people such as self-employed truck drivers, couriers, freelancers, and artists.

      insurancebusinessmag.com
    • Cape Breton Regional Police Service (CBRPS) has an extra $122K to be used to recruit new officers. The municipal force normally has 200 officers, but currently has 24 vacancies. CBRPS is offering paid on-the-job training and $5,000 signing bonuses.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia will end its moratorium on issuing new seafood processing licences, which has been in place since 2018. Certain standards will have to be met to get a license, but the N.S. Seafood Alliance states there is not enough supply for new entrants.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-03-17 to 2023-03-23
    • The minimum wage for federal workers will increase to $16.65/hr as of April 1. Federally regulated private sector employers include, among others, airlines, banks, grain elevators, telecom companies, and First Nations band councils.

      charlottefm.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Denny’s and Bar One will be part of the new Sandman Signature Hotel (Burnside/Dartmouth) with an anticipated Fall 2023 launch, Radish Chicken (Halifax); Closures: Sushi Tonari (Halifax/Scotia Square food court), Drala (Halifax), Riot Pixie (Woodside).

      retales.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced about $14.5M to help community groups, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations develop and improve recreation infrastructure. There are a total of 19 projects being funded, including $6M for the Barrington Recreation Centre in Shelburne County.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has imposed a moratorium on new marine fish farms applications until it assesses, maps and rates the coast for suitable locations. The ban doesn't apply to companies looking to lease sites for shellfish or seaweed harvesting. Cooke Aquaculture is planning $122M in upgrades over the next 5 years.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. government has announced $12M in funding for affordable transitional housing to support the recruitment and retention of health-care workers and skilled tradespeople. This adds to the previously announced $8M investment for modular housing for health-care workers.

      cbc.ca
    • The provincial and federal governments have announced combined funding of $16.6M towards 10 investment projects, which would see the contruction of 236 affordable housing rental units throughout the province. Communities will stretch from Guysborough to Amherst.

      cbc.ca
    • Zen Electric (Dartmouth) has announced a $1.25M investment from Nigerian-based, North South Power Company, for continued research and development for their home-grown e-battery technology. They plan to add 5 new employees to their 6-person team in 2023 and expand their staff to 50 within 4 years.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S.'s environment minister has approved the Goose Harbour Lake wind farm project that will see 29 turbines erected in Guysborough County. Owner Port Hawkesbury Paper Wind hopes to begin clearing work this summer, before construction work begins in 2024 and turbines start spinning in 2025.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada is investing $498,118 to support Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation as it constructs a full-scale oyster farm in Pomquet Harbour. The funding will support materials, equipment and set-up to launch operations and maintain 5 full-time jobs and create 5 others.

      canada.ca
    • Tidal power developer Sustainable Marine Energy is withdrawing the application for its Minas Passage electricity generation project in the Bay of Fundy. They’re currently trying to work with their project partners and stakeholders to explore their options. The decision is seen as a blow to the tidal power industry.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $10k in bonuses for nurses in the province’s publicly funded healthcare system this year and another $10k for nurses who commit to staying in the system for another two years.

      novascotia.ca
    • A new report entitled the Atlantic Canada Momentum Index says that the region is now performing at a level comparable to the national average. Atlantic Canada's growing population has led to greater economic growth, despite contributing to increased housing costs.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-03-10 to 2023-03-16
    • The N.S. Government has announced a $2.1M investment in the Westville Miners Sports Centre. The upgrade will replace the existing ice plant, cement flooring, refrigeration system and humidification system with more modern and efficient alternatives.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government announced $37.4M in funding for St. Francis Xavier University to help launch a new health research institute. The university currently has 75 health-focused researchers and expects this will lead to more research positions. The new building will cost $63.1M and is expected to open in 2026.

      cbc.ca
    • The Government of Canada announced combined Federal, Provincial and Municipal funding of over $28.8M to upgrade wastewater and active transportation infrastructure in the Town of Lunenburg and the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.

      canada.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: Zesty Pizza (Spryfield), Dodo’s Chicken (Halifax); Closures: Local Jo Cafe (Halifax), Mark’s Work Warehouse (Sunnyside Mall), World Gym (Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • Snow crab prices plunged by 60% in 2022 due to a drop in US consumer demand due to inflation resulting in a glut of supply in storage which is expected to continue to depress prices. Atlantic lobster prices also fell about 30% in 2022 but a rebound is predicted in the upcoming season with little inventory currently available.

      cbc.ca
    • Michelin, one of Nova Scotia’s largest employers, has announced a major $302.7M expansion that will modernize and expand its manufacturing facility in Bridgewater and create more than 70 new jobs. Michelin will receive a provincial tax credit of about $61.3M over 5 years and Federal funding of $44.3M.

      novascotia.ca
    • More than 100 stakeholders have come together to address labour shortages within Canada's agriculture workforce. Canada's agriculture industry contributes over $130B to the national economy, but needs a stable and skilled workforce to remain competitive.

      infomedia.gc.ca
    • Over $7.1M in one-time provincial funding grants will be distributed to community groups providing mental health programs. The Mental Health Foundation of N.S. will receive $3M to administer the grants for mental health and addictions projects and services across the province.

      novascotia.ca
    • Provincial registry figures for March show 137,587 people (about 14% of the population) currently looking for a family doctor or nurse practitioner, up about 4,000 from February, setting a new all-time high. The central zone, which includes Halifax, saw the largest increase at 4.7%.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-03-03 to 2023-03-09
    • The N.S. Government has announced $8M to help organizations supporting women experiencing gender-based violence meet an increased demand for their services and address rising operating costs.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Government of Canada has announced $1,006,223 for the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education & Development (CEED) and the Centre for Women in Business (CWB). The funding to CEED will assist over 850 startups and 200 existing N.S. businesses while the CWB funding will support two projects.

      canada.ca
    • Nova Scotia is the first province to recognize credentials of US board-certified doctors without exams. The change will remove a barrier for doctors who trained in the United States but would like to practice in the province.

      cbc.ca
    • N.S. has launched a new tourism campaign "Your Ocean Playground" that will run through the end of summer in Ontario, Quebec, and the northeastern US. The province will invest an additional $2.7M in 2023 campaigns to support earlier and extended marketing of N.S. with a total budget of $8.6M for 2023.

      citynews.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced a $58.9M investment to develop a new medical school campus at Cape Breton University (in collaboration with Dalhousie University). The new medical school campus will train 30 new doctors each year with plans to open by fall 2025. Funding also includes a new collaborative care clinic at the NSCC Marconi campus.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced a $25M investment to support the creation of new health data analytics and health system administration programs at Saint Mary’s University to help Nova Scotia become a national leader in leveraging data and analytics to improve patient care.

      novascotia.ca
    • Halifax has been chosen to host the 2024 Juno Awards on March 24, 2024 for the first time since 2006.

      cbc.ca
    • Halifax has approved $11M in spending for an affordable housing development in the city's north end to build a 38-unit project backed by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. The development project will include on-site health and social services for residents. The society will have 18 months beginning in May to complete the project.

      cbc.ca
    • Nova Scotia's Department of Education and Early Childhood Development has cited supply chain and labour pressures for the delay in meeting its pledge to add 1,500 new daycare spaces by the end of 2022. 400 new licensed daycare spaces were created between July 2021 and Dec. 31 2022.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon Businesses: McJolly (Halifax), Chicken, Burgers, Spaghetti (Halifax), The Big Leagues Brew Pub (Bayers Lake), Bluenotes/Aeropostale (Halifax), Desto Binz (Dartmouth); Closures: Steak & Stein (Halifax/Dartmouth).

      retales.ca
    • The Province of N.S. has sold 27,000 mineral claims in 2022, a solid increase compared to the past five years. Of these, at least half are held by companies looking for lithium. The two biggest buyers were Brunswick Exploration and Australia-based Continental Lithium.

      cbc.ca
    • The Touquoy open pit gold mine in Moose River is expected to wrap up mining operations in early 2024 rather than late 2024. Owner Atlantic Gold is a subsidiary of Australian-based St Barbara which has proposed 3 other N.S. gold mines.

      cbc.ca
    • The South End Family Practice has announced it is closing its Halifax medical clinic on August 30, 2023. The clinic has four doctors which currently serve over 4,100 patients. As of February 1, 2023, just over 133,000 Nova Scotians (13.5% of the population) are in need of a doctor.

      cbc.ca
    • ESDC has a new Skilled Trades apprenticeship program, which will help small to medium-sized employers to hire first-year apprentices in 39 Red Seal trades. Included are plumbers, gasfitters, refrigeration and A/C mechanics, and steamfitter/pipefitters.

      mechanicalbusiness.com
  • Week of 2023-02-24 to 2023-03-02
    • Atlantic musicians are concerned about proposed changes to increase the cost of temporary work visas from $460 to $1,615. That would triple the cost for Canadian musicians that want to perform in the U.S., on top of their other travelling expenses.

      cbc.ca
    • The Halifax Shipyard is looking for over 350 people as new projects ramp up at the shipbuilding facility. Positions include apprentice and red seal welders, electricians, millwrights, metal fabricators and pipefitters, along with labourers, riggers, stage builders and spray painters.

      saltwire.com
    • The Government of Canada has announced over $6.4M in joint Federal-Provincial-Municipal funding to improve Cumberland County’s water and wastewater infrastructure.

      canada.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $28,755 in funding to health and wellness organization Tajikeimik that will work in collaboration with the L’nu Nursing Initiative at Dalhousie University to help recruit Indigenous healthcare workers in Mi’kmaw Communities.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $559k for the Axis Point Program operated by the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton for a new supportive housing initiative for adult women. The funding will help support operations and on-site services that include 24-hr. staffing and mental health and employment services.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has given Melford International Terminal Incorporated’s proposed shipping container terminal in the Strait of Canso a deadline of October 2024 to begin construction on the $350M project.

      cbc.ca
    • Halifax Transit is hoping to launch new services this fall, but the Amalgamated Transit Union representing workers, says about 100 staff would be needed to meet those demands. Chronic staff shortages continue to be experienced with 14 driver resignations since January 1.

      cbc.ca
  • Week of 2023-02-17 to 2023-02-23
    • The N.S. Government is adding $12M in funding for additional supports for child-care operators through the Canada-Nova Scotia Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. Under the new annual agreements they will receive more funding for infant spaces, which should help compensate for rising operational costs and staff wages.

      novascotia.ca
    • Bear Head Energy is proposing to build a green hydrogen production and exportation plant in the industrial park in Point Tupper. This is the second proposal for the area after the province approved a proposal by EverWind Fuels in January. Both plan to use wind energy to power their projects.

      cbc.ca
    • The Federal and Provincial governments have announced a combined investment of over $1.22M to support two rural public transit projects in Antigonish County. The funding will support new vehicle purchases and supporting infrastructure.

      canada.ca
    • A $5,571,844 contract for replacing the bridge in Lantz has been awarded to Dexter Construction to replace the one-lane structure with a two-lane bridge. Construction is scheduled to start this June and should be completed by the fall.

      cbc.ca
    • Cape Breton University is launching a fast-tracked 16-month bachelor of social work program, which is set to begin this fall and will welcome 30 students to help meet the growing demand for workers. There are currently at least 30 positions in the child-welfare and mental-health systems in N.S. posted on various job boards.

      cbc.ca
    • Screen Nova Scotia is partnering with the province to explore the film industry's potential spin-offs on our tourism industry. 2022 was a very busy year for the NS film industry, which generated $180M in new economic activity. Similar results are expected in 2023.

      citynews.ca
    • Saint Mary's University Faculty Union, which represents 300 full-time professors, librarians, and instructors, has reached a tentative agreement with the school following 98% of the union's members voting in favour of a strike mandate late last month.

      cbc.ca
    • Doctors living and working within the four Atlantic Provinces will be able to work within the region without additional licensing requirements with the new Atlantic Physicians Registry that is expected to launch on May 1. This will allow the four provinces to draw from a larger pool of specialists to fill gaps.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Internet Funding Trust will invest $10.6M in Pictou County to bring high-speed internet to more than 4,700 homes and businesses. The municipality’s fibre expansion project will cost about $53M with the additional funding coming from The Federal Government ($31M) and Pictou County ($10.6M).

      novascotia.ca
  • Week of 2023-02-10 to 2023-02-16
    • Joint Federal Provincial funding of $593,931 was announced for Pictou County Transit’s fixed-route transit system, which provides public transit service in New Glasgow and Stellarton. The funding will enable two new bus purchases and establish new bus stops to improve accessibility.

      canada.ca
    • Combined Federal and Provincial Government funding of $8M has been announced to support energy efficiency upgrades to over 200 public housing properties in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.

      canada.ca
    • A new survey from the CFIB shows that 52% N.S. small business owners and 62% of N.B. owners have pandemic-related debt. In both provinces the average debt level is around $100K, and up to 16% report they are at risk of closure.

      charlottefm.ca
    • Bed Bath & Beyond Canada is closing all 54 stores and 11 buybuy BABY stores including its stores in Fredericton, Moncton, Halifax, Dartmouth, Charlottetown, and St. John’s. The company has nearly 400 full-time and over 1,000 part-time workers.

      cbc.ca
    • New/Coming Soon: Mary Brown’s (Bedford); Closures: Kam-Moon (Halifax) and Bed Bath and Beyond/Buy Buy Baby are closing all stores in Canada.

      retales.ca
    • The Grape Growers Association of N.S. has reported that it will take years for vineyards to recover from the recent cold snap that destroyed over 95% of some of the most prized varieties of grapes.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has renewed two agreements with Port Hawkesbury Paper that will result in less timber being cut on Crown lands which will result in a shift to the private sector. This was recommended in the 2018 Lahey Report on forestry that called for a shift to ecological forestry.

      cbc.ca
    • Some nurses early in their careers are leaving Nova Scotia hospitals and signing contracts with travel nursing agencies to work elsewhere in Canada. These nurses are citing higher pay and more flexible schedules. N.S. Health is currently trying to fill 1,024 vacant nursing positions.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has approved two new wind farm projects from Natural Forces Developments: The Benjamins Mill development (near Windsor) with 28 turbines and the Westchester Wind Project (near Oxford) with 12 turbines. Construction will begin in winter 2023 and be operational by 2025.

      cbc.ca
    • Marchand Developments is planning a major housing development that will bring 886 new housing units to a 36-acre site in Bridgewater over the next 20 years or more. Phase 1 construction is expected to start by the end of 2023 or early 2024 and will see 492 units built.

      cbc.ca
    • Statistics Canada data shows that one in five properties across much of Canada are owned by investors. N.S. and N.B. have fairly high levels of investor-owned properties, which can make it harder for first-time homeowners to find an affordable home.

      cbc.ca
    • Canada’s premiers and territorial leaders have accepted the new federal health care transfer, which will result in the provinces getting an extra $49B over 10 years. The funding will help address priorities like the doctor shortage and surgical backlogs.

      vocm.com
  • Week of 2023-02-03 to 2023-02-09
    • Cape Breton University faculty members have ratified a new contract, ending a 12-day strike in Sydney. The agreement includes a nearly 9% salary increase over 3 years, along with room for annual bonuses. The contract affects librarians, archivists, lab instructors, nursing practice educators and research chairs.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has purchased an unfinished hotel in Bedford for $34M from Cresco Holdings Ltd. to convert it into a transitional care unit for some Halifax area hospital patients. The property has been under construction since 2019 and was to be a Marriott-branded hotel.

      cbc.ca
    • Over half of the long-term nursing homes in N.S. can now provide increased hours of daily care (4.1 hours) for their residents as a result of staffing level increases stemming from $25.1M in recent funding. 1,000 people will be graduating from continuing care assistant programs in the next 6 months.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced a new $500k Abattoir Enrichment and Efficiency program for licensed abattoirs and meat processors to help upgrade their facilities and grow the local food sector. The application deadline for this year is February 28.

      novascotia.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $75,000 in funding the Municipality of Shelburne to support efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, through its new $2M Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment Community Fund.

      novascotia.ca
    • The Halifax Regional Municipality has approved plans to build sidewalks for 17 rural communities over the next 10 years. Projects could also include paved shoulders and multi-use pathways. The first five projects could cost between $4-$19M for the city.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has approved a green hydrogen project for Point Tupper to produce hydrogen powered by renewable electricity from local wind-energy suppliers. EverWind Fuels Company plans to begin operations at the former NuStar oil and gas storage facility in Point Tupper by 2025.

      cbc.ca
    • A 10-year, $196B federal health-care plan recently proposed by the Federal Government promises an influx of about $46.2B in new funding for the provinces and territories to improve struggling medical systems. This would amount to an additional $102M a year in immediate federal health funding for N.S.

      cbc.ca
    • The NS Government is increasing the minimum wage, currently at $13.60/hour, to $14.50 on April 1 and then to $15 on October 1, 6 months earlier than scheduled. It will also increase annually based on the national consumer price index plus 1%, effective April 1, 2024.

      novascotia.ca
    • New/Coming Soon: Guitar Central (Halifax), Sunny Fresh Market (Bedford), Freak Lunchbox (Dartmouth), PetValu (Timberlea); Closures: Rugova Pizza (Halifax).

      retales.ca
    • N.S. exported $2.5B in seafood in 2021, an increase of 21% from five years ago. The N.S. Fisheries Loan Board has seen increasing demand from new entrants, making up 38% of the applications approved in the 2021-22 fiscal year, and trending even higher year-to-date for 2022-23 at 42.4%.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. film and TV industry is anticipating another banner production season. It has rebounded in large part to increases in the N.S. Film and TV Production Incentive Fund which has been topped up to $41M to meet growing demand and the creation of a $15M N.S. Content Creator Fund productions in 2022.

      cbc.ca
    • The N.S. Government has announced $61,343 in funding The Yarmouth Region Medical Professional Recruitment Partnership to support efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals in Yarmouth, through its new $2M Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment Community Fund.

      novascotia.ca
Date modified: