Building Boats, Changing Lives: Experiential Learning - Member's Statement

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

MR. SPEAKER: Permission granted.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I'd like to draw members' attention to the gallery opposite where we're joined by Dr. Shane Theunissen, a professor in Child and Youth Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University and Eamonn Doorly, boatbuilder at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. I'd like everyone to join me in offering them the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Shane Theunissen, Professor in Child and Youth Studies at Mount Saint Vincent, and his colleagues: Dr. Christine McLean, also at Mount Saint Vincent University; and Eamonn Doorly, boat builder at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. This is for their work in developing and furthering the Building Boats, Changing Lives program, which seeks to help youth overcome socio-economic disparities by way of traditional Maritime skill.

A version of this workshop was brought to the Grade 5 and 6 students of Pictou Landing First Nation School. They worked together to measure, cut, bend and nail wood to build rowboats, which they launched at a community ceremony. In the process the youth learn to problem solve, communicate and work together in teams. Their confidence grew as they took initiative and responsibility for their boats.

Please join me in thanking Dr. Theunissen, Dr. McLean and Eamonn Doorly for bringing this unique opportunity for experiential education to young people in Nova Scotia.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.