Nova Scotia Premier Condemns Judges' Ban on Wearing Poppies in Courtrooms
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston criticized a decision by two judges to bar court staff from wearing poppies in courtrooms, calling the ban "disgusting" and emphasizing the poppy's role as a symbol of remembrance.
Background of the Controversy
The issue emerged after Frank Magazine Atlantic reported that Judge Ronda van der Hoek, associate chief judge of the Provincial Court, and Justice Jean Dewolfe of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court (family division), who both serve at the Kentville Justice Centre in the Annapolis Valley, had instructed court staff not to wear poppies while on duty.
Premier's Response
“It has come to my attention that earlier this week there was an order issued prohibiting individuals working in certain court facilities from wearing poppies while on duty in those locations,” Houston stated on the social media platform X.
“This order was issued under the guise that the poppy is somehow a ‘political statement.’ This is disgusting. The poppy is not a political statement. It is a symbol of remembrance and respect for the fallen and those who served and continue to serve our country.”
Clarification from the Courts
Andrew Preeper, spokesperson for Nova Scotia courts, mentioned that no discussions about poppies took place in the courtroom itself, suggesting the order did not stem from courtroom proceedings.
Premier's Proposed Action
In light of this controversy, Premier Houston is considering legislation to protect the right to wear poppies in the workplace across the province.
Summary
Premier Houston denounces a judge-imposed poppy ban as offensive and moves to legally guarantee the right to display this symbol of respect and remembrance in Nova Scotia workplaces.