Chester-St. Margaret's PC Association

22/07/2026

14/07/2026

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Premier John Hamm.

Dr. Hamm, as he was known for decades, made an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of Nova Scotians. First as a compassionate family physician in Pictou County and later as the premier who made big changes to set our province on a better path.

Premier Hamm first entered public life as the MLA for Pictou Centre in 1993. In 1995, he was elected as the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia, and in 1999, he led the party from third place to a majority government.

He was elected premier again in 2003 and retired from politics in 2006.

During his time as premier, he made a landmark investment in Nova Scotia Community College, calling it an investment in the province’s future.

Among his most significant achievements was his successful negotiation of the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord. He was a tireless champion for the province, and his successful Campaign for Fairness ensured Nova Scotians would be the primary beneficiaries of the province’s resources.

What he said in 2001 is still relevant today:

“I want Canadians to know that Nova Scotia wants to earn economic independence by our own means and once again be social and economic equals within this great country. We are asking only for what Nova Scotians were promised – as the revenues from our offshore oil and gas grow, the additional financial benefits should flow to Nova Scotians.”

I will remember Premier Hamm for his strength, his quiet dignity and for his determination to improve the lives of the people he served.

At this difficult time, I send my most sincere condolences to his wife Genesta and their children John, Jeffrey and Jennifer, their families and to all who loved Premier John Hamm.

In recognition of Premier Hamm’s many contributions to Nova Scotia, the flags on Province House and all provincial buildings will be half-masted.

01/07/2026

Wishing all Nova Scotians a happy Canada Day! 🇨🇦

01/07/2026

Slow Down we ♥️ our Children and Pets signs are available for pick up. Drop by the office, Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm to grab one.

📍4080 Nova Scotia Trunk 3, Chester

19/06/2026

Starting today until September 7, youth aged 17 and under can enjoy free admission to all 16 Nova Scotia Museum sites and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. Young adults aged 18-24 will receive 50% off admission.

From 100-year-old fire trucks to 200-million-year-old dinosaur skeletons, our museums are full of stories that celebrate Nova Scotia’s history and culture. This program is part of the Canada Strong Pass, an initiative that encourages young people to discover Canada’s natural and cultural heritage.

There is no physical or virtual pass to present, people only need to visit participating sites to receive the benefits.

News release: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2026/06/19/museums-offer-free-reduced-admission-youth-summer

04/06/2026

I often hear from people who want an easier way to stay up to date on local news and what's happening in our community, so I'm starting a monthly email newsletter.

It will include community updates, local announcements, events and other important information. If you would like to receive it, you can sign up with your email using the link below:

https://mailchi.mp/5da3a0f763c2/mla-danielle-barkhouse

11/04/2026

Happy Birthday, Premier Tim Houston! 🎉

Send your best wishes and sign his card at the link below.

https://pcpartyns.ca/premier-houston-birthday-card/

11/04/2026

The spring sitting of the Nova Scotia Legislature has wrapped up! Our PC government delivered:

✅ Billions to rebuild healthcare and hire more frontline workers
✅ More money to build up long-term care and supports for our seniors
✅ Action to get more homes built, faster
✅ The Powering the Economy Act, positioning Nova Scotia as an energy superpower

From building up healthcare to powering our economy, we’re focused on core services to support Nova Scotians now and in the future.