Release of Report from Justice Merlin Nunn

Premier John Hamm today released the report prepared by Justice D. Merlin Nunn on allegations made against Eastern Shore MLA Bill Dooks. The premier expressed satisfaction with the report's findings.

"Based on all the evidence to date and Justice Nunn's report, I have every confidence that Mr. Dooks conducted himself appropriately," said the premier. "It is clear that Mr. Dooks was merely attempting to fulfil his legitimate duties as a councillor for the Halifax Regional Municipality."

The five-page report was received by the premier earlier this week in response to his request of May 31. In it, Justice Nunn concluded: "It would be most presumptuous of me, and quite improper, to suggest to you that Mr. Dooks is guilty of offences under the Elections Act in these cases....

"Mr. Dooks was attempting to perform his role as councillor for his district while also running as a candidate in the election. Because of the rather unique situation of the councillors discretionary fund (perhaps unique to the Halifax Regional Municipality) he may have acted contrary to the strict prohibitions of the Elections Act but, I must make it very clear, I have had no indication of political undercurrents or that the payments created political advantages for Mr. Dooks with regard to any of the payments requested to be made by Mr. Dooks."

Premier Hamm has asked Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Angus MacIsaac and Justice Minister Michael Baker to consult with the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities to identify possible amendments to the Municipal Act, the Elections Act and other relevant statutes to clarify the intent of the legislation.

"Should councillors be allowed to serve in municipal office while campaigning for elected office while MLAs are not permitted to hold office during the writ period? We need to have a second look at the current laws as they apply to candidates," added the premier.

Since assuming office last August, Premier Hamm has fulfilled his commitment to enact the province's first-ever code of conduct for cabinet ministers.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Copies of Justice Merlin Nunn's report are available; please telephone Rob Batherson in the Office of the Premier, 902-424-6601.