Claudia Chender, the only candidate for the leadership of the Nova Scotia NDP, was officially elected leader on Saturday during the second day of the party’s convention in Dartmouth.
Speaking after his election, Chender said the party would continue to push for reforms in key areas such as health care, affordable housing and the cost of living.
Chender said Nova Scotians are paying too much for unreliable power and his party plans to intervene at the next UARB hearing.
“Nova Scotians expect their electricity to be reliable, affordable and environmentally friendly,” she said. “We beat zero for three, but we have solutions and we know what we have to do.”
In his first proposal as leader, Chender calls on Tim Houston’s government to provide families with direct support of $500 to help with the cost of living.
Chender said the prime minister was “sitting on a tax windfall” and had the money to offer such a payment.
The party needs to start planning for the 2025 election, she said, and part of that will be growing support across the province, especially in rural areas.
“I’m not fooled into thinking it’s a simple task,” Chender told the media after his podium speech.
“But I will tell you that if there is half the enthusiasm in this province as we see in this room, it will be joyful.”
There are 206 delegates registered for the convention which ends on Sunday. This includes some former NDP MPs and former NDP premier Darrell Dexter.
Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh spoke on Saturday before Chender addressed the crowd and underscored the NDP’s commitment to affordable housing.
His remarks on housing initiatives were enthusiastically received by the assembly.
The convention began Friday with party business and a tribute to outgoing leader Gary Burrill.
In his last speech as leader, Burrill paid tribute to party staff, volunteers, caucus members, former candidates and his family for supporting him during his tenure as party leader.
Burrill explained how, through perseverance, New Democrat ideas such as a $15 minimum wage, rent control and paid sick leave ended up on the radar of Liberal and Progressive Conservative governments.
Before a final thank you, he turned his gaze to the government in place and alluded to his expectations for the future of his own party.
“This government talks a lot of bluster. That’s because that’s what it is – all bluster and no substance,” he said.
“Claudia Chender is the pin to pop their balloon.”
Although Burrill stepped down as leader, he did not retire from politics. He will continue as MPP for Halifax Chebucto.
“Internet evangelist. Extreme communicator. Subtly charming alcohol aficionado. Typical tv geek.”