Eight Honourary Members of Executive Council Appointed

Premier Rodney MacDonald and Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis recognized eight honourary members of the executive council today, Dec. 20, at a ceremony at Province House.

"Our democracy was built by the actions of former premiers and members of the legislature," said Premier MacDonald. "As we look ahead to celebrate 250 years of democracy in Canada, it's important that we take time and action to celebrate and honour their work to build a stronger society."

During the spring session of the legislature, an amendment to the Executive Council Act was passed to allow the lieutentant- governor to appoint honourary members of the executive council, upon recommendation of the premier and existing executive council. The act also allows those members to use the honorific The Honourable and the initials ECNS (Executive Council of Nova Scotia).

With the act now in place, former members of executive council may apply to the cabinet of the day to retain the right to use the honorifics.

The honourary members recognized today are:

• John Hamm, former premier
• Russell MacLellan, former premier
• Donald Cameron, former premier
• Roger Bacon, former premier
• John Buchanan, former premier
• Gerald Regan, former premier
• Darrell Dexter, leader of the Opposition
• Stephen McNeil, leader of the Liberal party

"We are pleased to welcome former premiers and leaders of the opposition as honourary members of the executive council, and recognize the contribution each has made to the democratic process in Nova Scotia." said Premier MacDonald.