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Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, MLA Cumberland North
Weekly Constituency Update
Week June 1 , 2026
Global
Global conflict continues to affect fuel prices – Fuel prices continue to fluctuate with the instability in the Middle East. Recent fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, along with renewed tensions involving Iran and the United States, has raised concerns about the security of global oil supplies.
Even when oil production itself is not directly disrupted, markets often react quickly to the possibility that conflict could spread or threaten key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters News Agency reported that oil prices rose more than 3% as Israel expanded its operations in Lebanon and as U.S.-Iran tensions escalated.
For families, farmers, truckers, small businesses, and rural communities, these global events are felt very locally at the gas pump. It is another reminder that Canada must take energy security seriously while also working toward long-term affordability and stability for households and businesses.
National
Canada’s economy is showing signs of strain- Statistics Canada reported recently that Canada’s economic output declined by 0.1% in the first quarter of 2026, following a 1% decline in the final quarter of 2025. That marks two consecutive quarters of negative growth on an annualized basis, which some economists refer to as a “technical recession.” While economists have cautioned that the decline was very small and could still be revised, the numbers are concerning. They point to a broader slowdown, including weak business investment and ongoing uncertainty around trade and tariffs.
For families, workers, small businesses, and rural communities, this is another reminder that affordability, economic stability, and responsible government decision-making must remain top priorities.
Alberta referendum raises important questions about national unity – Many Canadians are watching developments in Alberta where a referendum is scheduled for October 19, 2026. On that date, Albertans will be asked to vote on questions related to the province’s relationship with Canada, including whether the province should begin a legal process toward a binding vote on separation in the near future.
Premier Danielle Smith has said she supports Alberta remaining in Canada, while also arguing that Albertans deserve a stronger voice within Confederation.
This is a serious moment for Canada. Western alienation and regional frustration should not be ignored, but national unity must be handled with care, respect, and a commitment to strengthening Confederation for all provinces and including Atlantic Canada.
Provincial
Protecting Atlantic Canada’s export infrastructure – As part of their Nova Scotia agriculture tour, Federal Shadow Minister for Agriculture MP John Barlow along with MP Dave Epp and MP Carol Anstey, and I, had an informative and productive meeting and tour of the Halifax Grain Elevator.
Thank you to Kim Batherson and the team at the Halifax Grain Elevator for taking the time to explain the importance of this facility. Thank you also to James Kinsman, who provided the farmers’ and trucking perspective and explained what losing export access would mean for producers trying to move product to market.
This facility handles close to 500,000 tonnes of product, valued at approximately $86 million each year. More than $53 million of that product went to buyers in the UK and the European Union. We also heard that this facility has significant room to grow. With long term certainty, the operators believe they could modernize equipment, improve efficiency, move more product, and support more farmers, forestry producers, exporters, and food processors.
However, the Halifax Port Authority’s plan to infill the pier would cut off the Halifax Grain Elevator’s export access. Without that berth, the facility cannot load bulk vessels, which is the core service farmers, forestry producers, grain exporters, wood pellet producers, food processors, and rural businesses depend on.
If Canada is serious about food security, trade diversification, and supporting rural industries, Atlantic Canadian agriculture infrastructure cannot be treated as temporary or disposable.
Funding Applications Open for Emergency Response Organizations – Volunteer fire departments, ground search and rescue teams, hazardous materials units and other emergency response organizations across the province can apply for funding through the Emergency Services Provider Fund. The program supports volunteer first responder organizations by helping with the purchase of equipment used directly in fire suppression and other emergency response activities.
A variety of items are eligible for funding for individual organizations includimg personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus, other equipment and emergency power for buildings. Examples of eligible purchases through the regional fund include major equipment and specialized vehicles and trailers as well as for shared equipment pools.
Emergency Services Provider Fund information and applications are available here.
Cumberland North (with a National Impact)
Nappan Research Farm Tour – On Saturday, May 30, Members of Parliament took the time to come to Cumberland County to better understand the harmful impacts the closure of the Nappan Experimental Farm will have on agriculture in Atlantic Canada. We were pleased to be joined by MP John Barlow, Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Agri-Food, MP Dave Epp, and MP Carol Anstey, who came to hear directly from producers about the importance of agricultural research and the consequences of losing it.
The visit included a private stakeholder roundtable, a tour of the Maritime Beef Test Station, a visit to the Nappan Experimental Farm, and a standing-room-only public meeting. Producers, agricultural stakeholders, community members, and students shared concerns about the proposed closure and its impact on research capacity, food security, rural communities, and the future of agriculture in Atlantic Canada.
We were welcomed by Nick Van Vulpen for a tour of his dairy farm, followed by a frank and informative discussion with local producers. Joining the discussion were his son and soon-to-be owner, Denzel Van Vulpen, along with RJ Dillman, Francis Bacon, Vincent Kouwenberg, and Kim Waalderbos, all of whom shared their firsthand experiences and perspectives on the realities facing agriculture in our region.
The message from farmers was clear: agricultural research matters. The work being done through the Nappan Experimental Farm and its connections to producers throughout Atlantic Canada plays a critical role in improving productivity, advancing innovation, supporting animal health, strengthening food security, and helping farmers remain competitive.
Farmers emphasized that food security, food safety, food production, and support for the people who actually grow and produce our food must be a top priority for all governments.
These Members of Parliament heard firsthand how important it is that Atlantic Canada continues to have regionally relevant agricultural research. They also heard concerns about what will be lost if the Nappan Experimental Farm closes – not only for today’s farmers, but for future generations.
I want to sincerely thank Nick and Denzel and all the other producers who took time out of their busy schedules to share their knowledge, experiences, and concerns. Their voices deserve to be heard in Ottawa. The future of Canadian agriculture depends on the decisions we make today. Protecting agricultural science, food security, and rural communities must be a national priority.
We later toured the Maritime Beef Testing Station and witnessed something that perfectly illustrates why the proposed closure of the Nappan Experimental Farm matters so much to our region. At the same time as our visit, more than 100 young people and dedicated leaders were participating in a 4-H event on site. It was a powerful reminder that agriculture is not just about research facilities and farm production, it is about people, families, education, mentorship, and the future of rural communities.
The connections between the Nappan Experimental Farm, the Maritime Beef Testing Station, local producers, agricultural research, and youth organizations like 4-H run deep throughout Atlantic Canada. Together, they help improve cattle genetics, strengthen food production, support agricultural innovation, and inspire the next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders.
These facilities are not isolated operations. They are part of the fabric of our rural communities and play an important role in improving productivity, supporting food security, and helping keep food affordable for Canadians. When agricultural research capacity is reduced, the consequences extend far beyond a single location. The impacts are felt by farmers, youth, local economies, and ultimately consumers at the grocery store.
If you live in the Maritimes and believe regional agricultural research matters, I encourage you to contact your Member of Parliament and ask them to support the future of the Nappan Experimental Farm and the Maritime Beef Testing Station. The future of agriculture in Atlantic Canada depends on the decisions we make today.
What is especially concerning is that the Nappan herd was reportedly not allowed to be bred this spring, and there are plans to cull the herd this fall. That must not happen.
If this decision proceeds, Canada risks ending critical research on beef cow-calf herds. Once this herd, this infrastructure, this expertise, and this long-standing research capacity are gone, they will not be easily replaced.
People often expect elected officials to “fix” things on their own. There are some situations where that can happen but I want to be honest about how politics works, especially on the big issues.
Those in positions of power, the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and government decision-makers, often only act when they believe an issue will affect votes, seats, and public support.
That is why the future of local food, farming, agricultural research, and places like the Nappan Research Farm and Research Farms across Canada that are being closed cannot depend on one voice alone.
If you support farmers, food security, agricultural research, and the legacy herd at Nappan, now is the time to speak up.
This is something people of all ages can do. Whether you are a student, a parent, a farmer, a senior, a business owner, or someone who simply cares about where your food comes from, your voice matters.
And I especially want to call on our youth in agriculture, 4-H members, young farmers, students, and future leaders to help us. You understand the importance of farming, animals, research, and food security. Your voices are powerful, and we need you in this fight.
You can help by:
– Contacting your Member of Parliament
– Starting or signing a petition
– Putting a sign on your lawn supporting research farms and farmers
– Writing to the Prime Minister’s Office
– Writing to the Minister of Agriculture, Heath MacDonald, who is from Prince Edward Island
– Make a video why this is important and put on social media
– Sharing why agricultural research matters to your family, your community, and Canada’s future
The work happening at Nappan Research Farm and other research farms across the country helps improve productivity, strengthen food production, and support the farmers who feed us.
Please know this: We cannot do it without you.
Together, we can make a difference. But standing alone, nothing will change.
I need your help. Our farmers need your help. Our research farms need your voice.
Let’s stand together across generations for agriculture, food security, and the future of farming in Canada.
Last Week as your MLA – As your MLA last week I took many calls, responded to 100’s of emails and held several meetings with people on various topics like healthcare including a lack of adequate staffing of nurses in hospital resulting in risks to patient care (this was addressed right away). Concerns regarding local crime, local deaths from illegal drug use, related lack of access to rehab and supports, need for overhaul in laws for drug use and improved law enforcement cooperation across provincial borders were also discussed. I also had quite a few messages on school issues including lack of educational assistants leading to some dangerous situations and problems with accessing student loans. I also notarized some documents for people. A reminder this is a service I can provide for free.
Recent Events
Walk for Alzheimers – On Sunday I had the honour of attending the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimers. It was inspiring to stand side by side and walk with families who are on the difficult journey of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
I shared how hard it was the first time my beautiful mother-in-law did not recognize her son – my husband. It is a moment our family will never forget, and one that sadly so many families understand.
Alzheimer’s affects not only the person living with the disease, but everyone who loves and cares for them. The love of family, friends, caregivers, and community is what helps keep us together through the hardest days. Days like that give us hope — hope that through research, awareness, support, and continued fundraising, a cure can one day be found.
Thank you to everyone who organized, volunteered, donated, walked, and shared their stories. Together, we are helping build more compassionate, dementia-friendly communities.
Air Cadet Ceremonial Review – Also on Sunday I attended the 84th Annual Ceremonial Review of the 154 Amherst Anson Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. I was pleased to participate in the cadet inspection alongside Major Allan Day and to witness the remarkable accomplishments of these young leaders. Congratulations to every cadet on completing another successful year.
This year was not without challenges. The cadets, their leaders, and our veterans were forced to deal with the disruption and uncertainty caused by losing access to their training space at the Amherst Armoury, along with access to their equipment and property. It was disappointing to see our youth and volunteers placed in such a difficult situation by our federal government.
Despite these obstacles, our community stepped up. Through the personal and professional leadership of Sean Lockhart, an alternative training location was secured, ensuring the squadron could continue to provide valuable opportunities for local youth.
Congratulations to all of Sunday’s award recipients. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment have not gone unnoticed. A sincere thank you as well to the officers, civilian instructors, volunteers, sponsors, and families who make the cadet program possible. The Air Cadet program continues to build confidence, leadership, citizenship, and life skills in young people, and our community is stronger because of their efforts.
Well done to everyone involved, and best wishes to the cadets as they continue their journey of leadership and service.
Rotary Club Fundraiser – Last Friday evening was a fun time and a successful fundraiser for Amherst Rotary Club and Camp Tidnish! Thank you everyone especially our talented musicians that volunteered their time and talents! Steve Wells, Jenn and Dave Siddall and Second Band! Monies raised will go to Camp Tidnish. The camp is owned by our Rotary Club and Easter Seals manages the camps that occur there over the summer months.
Walk for Huntington’s Disease – A huge shout-out to Brianna Voss who just completed a 200km walk from Lower Sackville, NS to Amherst to raise funds and awareness for Huntington’s Disease. Brianna set a goal to raise $50,000 and just as importantly, she wants people to know more about the devastating disease that has impacted her family directly. A shout-out as well to Chrissy and her team at the Elm Tree in Amherst for hosting the celebration at the end of the walk. An amazing feat by an amazing young woman! If you would like to contribute to this fundraiser you can still do so at this link: https://p2p.onecause.com/voss-family-walk…
Audio Update – For those of you who may not know, I also do a weekly update, similar to this one, on CFTA Tantramar Radio, FM 107.9. It is broadcast each Monday at 12 pm noon. You can listen to all past episodes online on my website here.
Birthday and Anniversary Wishes
I would like to extend birthday and anniversary greetings to anyone celebrating this week, including:
Monday, June 1 – Tracy Murray, Kenneth Burris and Nayo Upshaw
Tuesday, June 2 – Braeden Lines and Sandra Colville
Wednesday, June 3 – Charlotte Fawthrop and Martha MacQuarrie
Thursday, June 4 – Thomas McCrossin and Iris Black
Friday, June 5 – Judy Benjamin and Gayle Joyce Brown
Saturday, June 6 – Paul Ripley
If you know of someone celebrating a special occasion and would like me to bring a certificate of recognition, please contact my office 902-661–2288. I would be honoured to help them celebrate.
Obituaries
I would like to extend my sympathies to anyone who has lost a loved one recently, including the family and friends of:
Rosemary Evelyn Ripley Douglas James Gallagher
Bertha Georgina MacKay Stanley Rae Stiles
If anyone else has lost a loved one, please accept my sincere condolences.
Upcoming Events
Lieutenant Governor’s Garden Party – Nova Scotians and visitors to the province are invited to attend the lieutenant-governor’s annual garden party at Government House on Wednesday, June 17. Hosted by Lt.-Gov. Mike Savage and Ms. Darlene Savage, the event is a long-standing tradition that welcomes people to the ceremonial home of all Nova Scotians.
Government House, located at 1451 Barrington St. in Halifax, will be open to the public from 2 to 5 p.m. The event is free, and no formal invitation is required. Guests will have an opportunity to meet Lt.-Gov. Savage and Ms. Savage, enjoy light refreshments and musical entertainment, and explore the historic grounds of Government House.
Month of June – Indigenous History Month and Pride Month
June 11 – North Cumberland Community Health Care Foundation Fundraising Golf Tournament, Northumberland Links
June 18 – Fashion Show Fundraiser for the Kait Saxton Scholarship – contact me for tickets or also available at SeaShell BeachWear & Gifts in Pugwash
June 21 – Indigenous People’s Day
June 27 – Grand Re-opening of the Pugwash Yacht Club and Bill Mundle Marina 3 pm
June 29 – High School Graduations
June 30 – Last Day of School
July 1st – Canada Day and 75th Gathering of the Clans in Pugwash
Take care of yourself mind, body and spirit and seek ways to serve others. I do believe this is where a true sense of purpose in life is discovered.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth
Mission
My Mission as MLA for Cumberland North is to represent you, the people of Cumberland North. I am an Independent MLA, and I work for you with a foundation in the principles of parliamentary democracy.
Building a stronger Cumberland North, Cumberland County, Nova Scotia and Maritimes is possible based on a foundation of the principles of:
– Truth and Justice
– Determination and Dedication
– Honesty
– Being a Servant Leader & Empowering All People
Together, you and I can build a Stronger Cumberland respecting the courage and strength of our veterans and standing firm on the Four Pillars of:
– Excellence in Health Care
– Affordability for All People Solid Education for our Children, and
– A Growing Economy by Supporting our entrepreneurs
Other important work includes addressing the increasing crime and illicit drug use, Maritime collaboration, protecting the Isthmus of Chignecto and standing for truth and justice for victims of sexual assault and family violence. These priorities are in line with my vision for building a stronger Cumberland and Maritimes.
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