When “Flexibility” Becomes a Pattern: Why Nova Scotians Deserve Better Government Accountability

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Trish McCourt, RSW

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about government accountability — specifically, about what happens when “emergency spending” becomes business as usual. The PC government in Nova Scotia has been defending its use of additional appropriations—money spent outside the regular budget process. Their argument? Government needs flexibility to respond when emergencies or opportunities arise. And you … Read more

Nova Scotia Fracking Project: Why Dalhousie’s $30M Research Deal Bypasses Indigenous Consent, Community Engagement, and Climate Reality

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When Our Institutions Bypass the Communities They’re Meant to Serve Nova Scotia’s $30 million hydraulic fracturing research agreement between Dalhousie University and the Houston government has sparked serious concerns from experts who led the province’s 2014 Nova Scotia fracking review. This isn’t just about energy policy—it’s about Indigenous sovereignty, environmental justice, community consent, and whether … Read more

Open Letter: Nova Scotia Budget 2026 Cuts to Community Programs: The True Cost of “Thoughtful Financial Decisions”

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To: Premier Tim Houston, Minister of Finance John Lohr, and Members of the Legislative Assembly From: Trish McCourt, RSW Former Executive Director, Social Worker, Non-Profit Consultant, Arts Volunteer Date: March 5, 2026 I have wrestled with whether to speak publicly about the 2026-27 provincial budget tabled on February 24th. Having just left my role as … Read more

When Family Becomes a Stranger: Coping With Family Estrangement

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We don’t talk enough about the hard things. There are fractures in life that don’t make a sound when they happen. They start as small hairline cracks and then they grow. Sometimes you think you can repair them. Sometimes you try harder, or longer, than you should. And sometimes, despite everything, the break becomes permanent. … Read more