NS Premier questioning CBRM’s decision to declare a state of emergency during weekend winter storm

The Premier of Nova Scotia didn’t appear to be pleased that the CBRM council declared a state of emergency on Sunday as that part of the province was dealing with well over 100 cm of snow.

Tim Houston says an emergency declaration is not required to access assistance from other government levels. However, he says, it does grant a municipality several powers, like the ability to fine people for being out of their homes.

“They can absolutely do that, they don’t need provincial approval to do that.  We respect their ability to do that” said Houston “At the end of the process I wonder what they will do with it?  Will they do anything with it or was it more of a PR issue is what I am wondering.”

CBRM mayor Amanda MacDougall said in issuing the declaration that the council was urging people to shelter in place for up to 7 days.

MacDougall says CBRM council voted unanimously for the declaration after it became clear a provincial state of emergency was not going to be called, adding that the hope was to keep people off the roads for emergency and snow-clearing vehicles as they attempt to clear up to 150 cm of snow in some areas.