Premier Tim Houston said it appears the NDP is looking for ways to gain a political advantage.
He made the comments Thursday afternoon, when questioned by reporters about accusing the official opposition of organizing Wednesday’s rally for arts and culture, the Premier responded, “well, the NDP were obviously speaking there, promoting it. They’ve, you know, it’s part of what they’re doing.”
Thousands of people across Nova Scotia joined the rally in response to last week’s spring budget, which included hundreds of cuts to arts and culture programs. The government said the reductions are necessary to help tackle a $1.2 billion deficit.
NDP Leader Claudia Chender said she was not the only one to speak at the rally. Other government officials stepped outside to address the crowd including Liberal Leader Ian Rankin and Independent MLA Becky Druhan.
The event drew widespread attention from the arts community, with many participants voicing concern that the budget cuts could have lasting impacts on cultural institutions and local artists.
While Houston reiterated that the province must focus on fiscal responsibility, opposition members argue that the arts are a vital part of Nova Scotia’s identity and economy.
The debate over funding priorities is expected to continue as the legislature reviews the details of the spring budget.
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