Category: Kentville

Rita MacNeil controversy

There’s a dispute over two books and a concert by Symphony Nova Scotia centred around Rita MacNeil.

The biography, “I’m Not What I Seem:  The Many Stories of Rita MacNeil’s Life,” by Charlie Rhindress; was expected to be on sale at the concert, but Rita’s family said no.  Only her own autobiography, “On A Personal Note,” will be sold.  Rhindress’ appearance was cancelled by the symphony which said it was honouring the family’s wishes.

MacNeil’s son, Wade Langham; told the CBC it’s nothing but a big brouhaha.

Stephen McNeil defends a former leader

Premier Stephen McNeil is defending a former liberal leader and his job as head of Engage Nova Scotia.

Danny Graham makes over $162,000 a year to head the agency which works with communities to get people engaged in social and political activities.  Taxpayers put up over $444,000 for the agency in 2015.

Conservative leader Jamie Baillie calls it a sweetheart deal and wants Graham’s contract cancelled.

McNeil says Baillie is just politicking because Graham is a friend of his.  He says the work the agency does matters, even though it’s hard to quantify.