Nova Scotia Legislature Reopens with Tight Security

0:00It's April 2nd. This is Canada News Today, driven by AI. Nova Scotia's legislature just reopened after shutting down for weeks over a wild protest that stalled a budget vote. On March 24th, folks in the public gallery started singing and shouting, delaying the whole thing, so Provin's house closed the next day. Now it's back, but second-four access is locked down to MLA's, media, and staff with special passes. They're cracking down hard on the disruptors from that day no gallery entry for them until the sergeant at arms wraps up the probe or the session ends. Short-term bans hit the whole precinct, including grounds and nearby rooms, but law-biting visitors get a pass with zero fallout. Fresh rules ban cell phones, tablets, front row seats, note-taking, talking, or any distracting vibes up there. Protest kicked off weeks earlier outside over budget slashes to arts, culture, tourism, and funding for Mick Mack and African Nova Scotian communities.

1:00Speaker Daniel Barkhouse called it out, saying some even blocked an MLA in the parking lot afterward. She stressed staff and members need a threat-free zone to work. Even with the investigation still rolling, these tighter visitor guidelines stick around for the rest of the sitting. No message, I close aloud either, if it's visible from the floor, cover it, or bounce. Bottom line, they're aiming for smooth debates without gallery drama, keeping the focus on the people's business and Halifax.