PC MLAs not ready to commit to weekly public accounts meetings in N.S.

The Progressive Conservative MLAs on the legislature’s public accounts committee are taking a cautious approach to their meeting schedule in Nova Scotia. Following their record-setting majority win in the recent provincial election, the committee is reevaluating how often they will meet.

Committee vice-chair and Pictou West MLA Marco MacLeod proposed a motion to review how other legislatures in Canada conduct their public accounts meetings before determining the frequency of meetings in Nova Scotia. MacLeod emphasized the importance of understanding different approaches as the committee welcomes new members post-election.

In response to MacLeod’s motion, opposition members raised concerns about the potential implications. NDP MLA Lisa Lachance criticized the PC government for what she perceived as a desire to avoid accountability. Lachance highlighted the public accounts committee’s role in discussing auditor general reports and financial matters that can create challenges for governments.

Liberal MLA Derek Mombourquette echoed Lachance’s sentiments, noting the history of changing meeting schedules based on political agendas. Under former premier Stephen McNeil, the committee’s meetings were reduced to monthly before the Tories reinstated weekly meetings after their election victory in 2021.

The committee also received updates from Auditor General Kim Adair on upcoming reports, including the annual financial report, a report on university funding, and progress updates on previous recommendations. Adair’s team is currently focusing on health care-related examinations, with reports on alternative procurement, nursing home beds, and performance indicators for the government’s Action for Health plan in the works.

Last year, Adair’s report scrutinized the Tories’ use of untendered contracts and a controversial health-care facility purchase. The upcoming reports are expected to shed light on key issues within the government’s operations.

As the public accounts committee navigates its meeting schedule and tackles significant financial matters, the focus remains on transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. Stay tuned for more updates on the committee’s progress in ensuring sound fiscal management in Nova Scotia.