Dartmouth (Nova Scotia), March 4, 2025 – The third reading of bill 3, which aims to create a special commission to delineate electoral boundaries in the Chéticamp region, was passed yesterday in the Nova Scotia Legislature. This crucial step marks significant progress towards establishing a special electoral constituency for the Acadian region of Chéticamp and area.

This initiative faces some opposition, particularly due to the relatively low number of voters in the region compared to other constituencies. However, it is imperative to understand why such a constituency is necessary for Chéticamp.

Why is this important?

1. History of Representation: Since the creation of Nova Scotia, Chéticamp has only had representation in the Legislature for two years, from 1925 to 1927. This prolonged absence of political representation is a critical issue that must be addressed to ensure local interests are heard and defended.
2. Closure of French-language Services: The Access Nova Scotia and Registry Motor Vehicles offices in Chéticamp, where services could be provided in French, have closed. This has contributed to a general decline in French-language services in the region, jeopardizing residents' access to essential services in their mother tongue.
3. Disappearance of French Place Names: Another major issue is the replacement of French place names and road signs in the region with English names. This represents a gradual erasure of the Acadian identity and cultural heritage, a trend that cannot be ignored.
4. Lack of Representation of Local Interests: Chéticamp residents often feel that their voices are not heard at the provincial level. Their unique reality is not adequately represented, which affects decision-making on issues that directly concern them.
5. Historical and Symbolic Memory: During the Acadian deportation, the Acadian community was scattered across various regions. Today, Nova Scotia cannot justify leaving the Chéticamp region without legislative representation simply because its population is too small. This is a historical injustice that must be rectified.
6. Insufficient Health Services: Even in the healthcare sector, professionals often assume that all residents can effectively communicate in English, which leads to gaps in the provision of French-language services, thereby affecting the quality of care received by French-speaking residents.
7. Need for Cultural Recognition: Chéticamp has always been considered a special Acadian region, with a unique heritage and culture that deserves to be protected and supported. Legislative representation and a dedicated electoral district are essential steps to ensure access to quality French-language services and preserve the Acadian identity in the region.

“The creation of a special commission to delineate electoral boundaries for Chéticamp is an important decision. It is an opportunity to restore fair representation for this region, defend the rights of the French community, and ensure better recognition of the cultural and linguistic distinctiveness of the Acadian community,” said the president of the FANE, Denise Comeau-Desautels. “The Government of Nova Scotia must consider these important issues and respond positively to the aspirations of Chéticamp residents.”

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