When absence of consultation can become a political headache

In the wake of his party winning the government in 2021 with a promise to address the healthcare crisis, Premier Tim Houston embarked on a province-wide tour to engage directly with healthcare professionals on ways to improve the struggling system. These consultations led to the implementation of various programs and initiatives based on feedback from frontline workers, marking a significant step forward in addressing a longstanding issue that had plagued previous administrations.

However, as the Progressive Conservative government entered its second term under Houston’s leadership, concerns arose regarding the government’s commitment to public consultation and whether feedback would be reflected in policymaking. The introduction of unexpected bills during the legislative session, including controversial measures such as limiting the powers of the auditor general and privacy commissioner, raised doubts about the government’s transparency and willingness to engage with the public.

One contentious issue was the government’s decision to lift bans on uranium exploration and hydraulic fracturing without adequate consultation with Mi’kmaw chiefs and municipal officials. This lack of dialogue resulted in criticism and concerns about the potential environmental and social impacts of these activities, highlighting the importance of meaningful consultation in decision-making processes.

Similarly, the government faced backlash over its unilateral decision to make parking free at healthcare sites without considering the implications for hospital staff. Following public outcry, the government was forced to backtrack on plans to increase parking fees for healthcare workers and is now scrambling to address the parking shortage in healthcare facilities.

The government’s approach to legislation, such as the bill aimed at reducing interprovincial trade barriers, also drew criticism for not consulting with professional regulators beforehand. This oversight led to flaws in the bill that could have compromised regulatory oversight and consumer protection if left unaddressed.

While the government has shown a willingness to amend problematic legislation in response to feedback, the lack of proactive consultation has raised concerns about its decision-making process. Despite successful initiatives like the health tour and the new student code of conduct, instances like the Coastal Protection Act demonstrate a tendency to disregard documented feedback in favor of a predetermined agenda.

As the government enjoys a supermajority in the legislature, there is a heightened responsibility to engage with the public and incorporate feedback into policymaking decisions. Failure to do so risks eroding trust and credibility, potentially impacting voter perception in the next election. Moving forward, prioritizing meaningful consultation and transparency will be essential for building public trust and ensuring effective governance.