Dear Friends,

I am happy to announce that the Activity Report: 2022 - 2023 has been published and is available to all Nova Scotians. It certainly was a historic year and I have enjoyed reviewing highlights of my time spent with each of you.

Please click here to download your PDF copy of the Activity Report. 

I cannot say how delighted Patsy and I have been to return to a regular schedule of in-person events at Government House.  This is a moment we anticipated and hoped for since March 2020. 

One of the great joys of serving as Lieutenant Governor is the opportunity to speak to individuals across the province and witness their outstanding contributions first-hand. Over the course of the year, Patsy and I hosted 132 investitures, award ceremonies and receptions at Government House, along with 126 external events, that celebrated service to the province and the country, professional achievements, academic merit and volunteerism. 

While it is always special to host annual award programs, this year was particularly notable, as 5,150 Nova Scotians were awarded with The Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal. The presentations officially began on 4 August 2022, when the Lieutenant Governor presented over 60 medals at the Westin Nova Scotian. This marked the largest investiture ever held by the Office and the largest post-COVID investiture in the country at that time. 

Despite the moments of joy and celebration, we also came together as a province to grieve the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. During the period of mourning, a book of condolences was available to the public at Government House, which will be housed on a permanent basis in the Nova Scotia Archives. A public multi-faith memorial service arranged by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, the Executive Council Office and the Protocol and Honours Secretariat, was held at the Cathedral Church of All Saints on 19 September 2022. It was also livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube for those who were not able to join us in Halifax.  

With the reading of the Accession Proclamation at Government House, we looked to King Charles III as our Head of State and King of Canada. Behind the scenes, plans for the Coronation celebration began and unfolded over the course of several months.  

This was indeed a historic year and one that will remained etched in my memory. Through all circumstances, I remained inspired by the acts of service, hospitality, compassion and care demonstrated by Nova Scotians. I am grateful for all that has been done and look to the future with great hope. 

Patsy and I send warmest wishes to all Nova Scotians and visitors to our province. 

With all kind regards,

Yours sincerely,

Arthur J. LeBlanc, ONS, KC 
Lieutenant Governor