Lloyd Hines, MLA Guysborough

In times of turmoil, people often find a new sense of purposeto help one another. For the volunteers throughout our province, giving back is what fuels them. These individuals have stepped up to ensure those in need get the support they deserve. In some cases, it has meant helping an older neighbour get their errands done safelyor ensuring a friend in isolation has groceries waiting for them. There are also many Nova Scotians who have given their time and energy to local food banks, to running pop-up testing sites and many other worthwhile initiatives. These people are change-makers and community heroesthey have been there to build us up, and they have doubled their efforts to keep us safe.

Our government is building a strategic, flexible immunization plan to ensure every Nova Scotian who wants the vaccine gets it. This plan accounts for over one million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine enough for more than 500,000 Nova Scotians over the next six months. This is the largest and most complex immunization project ever undertaken in the province. Public health and logistics experts are working diligently in conjunction with vaccine manufacturers to ensure the best possible immunization program for the benefit of all Nova Scotians.

As of today, Jan. 5, Nova Scotia has 19 active cases of COVID-19. Three new cases are being reported today, Jan. 5. All of the cases are in Central Zone. One case is related to travel outside Atlantic Canada. The other two cases are under investigation. None of the cases reported today, Jan. 5, are connected to Churchill Academy. Nova Scotia Health Authority's labs completed 1,045 Nova Scotia tests on Jan. 4. Nova Scotia will report the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses admini...stered weekly, starting today. There were 2,720 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine administered between Dec. 16 and Jan. 2. Since Oct. 1, Nova Scotia has completed 119,593 tests. There have been 419 positive COVID-19 cases and no deaths. No one is currently in hospital. Cases range in age from under 10 to over 70. Four hundred cases are now resolved. Cumulative cases may change as data is updated in Panorama.

In 2020, our government approved a record number of applications for newcomers, continuing to increase our population growth and encouraging economic recovery in the years to come. Focusing on skilled newcomers in essential services like health care and transportation, Nova Scotia is set to welcome over 3,500 migrants over the next few years, as the federal government processes applicants and travel restrictions are eased. While the past year has been challenging for aspiring immigrants, our government knows that immigration will continue to play a key role in our economy and its recovery.

This year has affected us all in different ways, changing lives forever. For some, that has meant the loss of a loved one for others, the various hardships of lockdown. Fortunately, for many, it has also meant a new sense of purpose in helping others, and keeping our communities safe. Frontline workers have stepped up to protect all Nova Scotians. Whether heroic healthcare professionals and first responders, or dedicated employees who work to ensure we have access to the goods and services we rely on we all owe these brave individuals a debt of gratitude.

From December 26th to January 1st, people across Nova Scotia celebrate Kwanzaa to honour African heritage, while recognizing the blessings of family, community and togetherness. When we come together to strengthen our families and our communities, we can face the future with faith and optimism. Wishing you and yours peace, unity and hope in the New Year.

NOTE: On Saturday, Jan. 2, Nova Scotia reported 382 resolved cases of COVID-19 since Oct. 1. As of Jan. 2, the correct number of resolved cases of COVID-19 since Oct. 1 was 383. As of today, Jan. 4, Nova Scotia has 27 active cases of COVID-19. Six new cases are being reported from Sunday, Jan. 3 and today, Jan. 4. On Jan. 3, two cases were reported. One case is in Western Zone and related to travel outside Atlantic Canada. The other case is in Eastern Zone and is under inves...tigation. On Jan. 4, four cases were reported in Central Zone. One case is related to travel outside Atlantic Canada, one case is a close contact of a previously reported case, and the other two cases are under investigation. None of the cases reported on Jan. 3 and today, Jan. 4 are connected to Churchill Academy. Public health has been in contact with the school community and has arranged testing for all staff and students. The last day of school was Dec. 18 and classes are scheduled to resume Jan. 11. "I'm pleased that the recent low number of cases in the greater Halifax area means that restaurants can reopen today," said Premier Stephen McNeil. "I want to thank the hardworking entrepreneurs in this sector for their patience as we do our best to slow the spread of the virus. I remind all Nova Scotians that following all the public health protocols is the best way to protect each other and also help our economy." Nova Scotia Health Authority's labs completed 969 Nova Scotia tests on Jan. 2 and 1,077 on Jan. 3. Since Oct. 1, there have been 416 positive COVID-19 cases and no deaths. One person is currently in hospital. Cases range in age from under 10 to over 70. Three hundred and eighty-nine cases are now resolved. Cumulative cases may change as data is updated in Panorama.

Many Nova Scotians, of all backgrounds, find comfort and solace in the spiritual side of life whatever that means to them. When this year’s pandemic struck and limited in-person gatherings, a little creativity and a lot of hard work allowed faith-based gatherings to resume once again. Some communities have taken their services online and although this may not feel quite the same, creative solutions have offered an invaluable way for some of us to reconnect with ourselves and our communities.

During the holidays, we find strength in our differences, while celebrating everything we have in common. This has been a year of staying apart, while pulling together to take care of each other, and to make life better for those around us. That’s what Christmas and Nova Scotia is all about.

Over the last two weeks, I have been highlighting the resilience of our collective community. Focusing on kindness, hope, purpose, strength, and opportunity, we have reflected on the spirit of our people, the many challenges overcome in the last year and the future promise of our province. The resilience and ingenuity of our people, paired with decisive government action, have allowed our economy to remain stable through these challenging times. While we continually work to improve the wellbeing of all in our province, we can each be grateful for the quality of life and safety enjoyed right here in Nova Scotia.

Last year was one that kept us apart yet somehow found a way to bring us closer than ever before. Old habits have made way for new opportunities, and every simple act of kindness has been amplified. We’ve learned, adapted and persevered. Innovative products and technologies have allowed friends and families to stay in touch, while employers and employees across the province have learned the value of working remotely. Nova Scotians will always find new ways to stay connected - and united.

One of our most famous traditions in this province is gathering together over music, food, and good cheer. In response to this year’s gathering limits, and in an effort to spread hope, warmth and joy, Nova Scotians took these traditions online. Virtual kitchen parties have become a new kind of celebration, with many sharing their favourite Nova Scotian folk songs, showing off some skilled tap dancing, or simply connecting with their loved ones.