Registry Wounded

The federal long-gun registry was in the crosshairs of Parliamentarians. A bill to dismantle the registry came up for a vote where it passed 164 to 137. South Shore/St. Margaret's M-P Gerald Keddy says he has been clear from the very beginning, he's never changed his position and never wavered on this bill against the registry for rifles and shotguns. Keddy says along with saving money, the streets will be safer because of more police officers being available with the money that will be saved. Meantime, Quebec's public safety minister has written to all M-Ps in the province, demanding they vote against the private member's bill tabled by the Conservatives. The legislation now goes to committee for further study and possible changes.

Dr. Hamm Appointment

A long-time physician and one-time premier has been re-appointed chairman of the Board of Directors of Assisted Human Reproduction Canada. The federal health minister says Dr John Hamm's medical career and his strength in working on complex issues with diverse stakeholders have served the Agency well. Dr Hamm has served on the Board as Chairperson since AHRC began operations in 2007. Assisted Human Reproduction Canada was established in 2006 to administer and enforce the Assisted Human Reproduction Act. Its mandate is to protect and promote the health and safety, dignity and rights of Canadians who use or are born of assisted human reproduction technologies, and to foster ethical principles in relation to assisted human reproduction and other related matters under the Act.

Privateer Funding

While the weather may not look the greatest for Privateer Days, the economic forecast is a little brighter today. Gerald Keddy was on hand for last night's opening ceremonies, and he had more than 20-thousand dollars in federal booty ($20,800). The Conservative Member of Parliament for the area says the Government is proud to support Privateer Days - something that celebrates our shared history. Anne Langille - the Chair of the event this year - says the money will help to bring back local entertainment to Privateer Days and celebrate the history of Queens county and it's privateering heritage. 2009 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of Liverpool Township. The festival runs right through the weekend.