District Profiles

EASTERN SHORE (22)

Candidates:

Current MLA: Bill Dooks (PC)

Riding Profile: Eastern Shore was first created in 1993 from the riding of Halifax Eastern Shore. It continues to be both a bedroom community (within a half-hour commute of Halifax) and a largely rural riding hugging the Atlantic Coast.

As a result of further boundary changes since the last election, Eastern Shore stretches from Lawrencetown Beach (home to the surfer dudes) in the south, past the growing community of Musquodoboit Harbour, to Clam Harbour, where an annual Sandcastle competition attracts people from all over the province.

Forestry, fishing and eco-tourism pursuits tied to hiking trails and sea kayaking are the main economic sectors. Taylor Head Provincial Park is located in this riding.

Musquodoboit Harbour includes a hospital, a clinic and several nursing homes for senior citizens.

The population is 14,330 and the average income is $27,000. The educational level is slightly above the provincial average.

Issues: The main issues in this riding are the poor state of Highway 7 along the Eastern Shore and car insurance.

Another huge issue is access to affordable transportation for seniors who need medical attention in Halifax.

Area residents also want more attention from the province to help develop outdoor recreation opportunities that will attract tourists. Sustainable forest practices are an issue; so is the price of home-heating oil.

Voters say there's a sense that this area continues to be forgotten by politicians.

Political History: Eastern Shore has proven to be a "swing" riding since its creation in 1993. But even before that, Liberal Garnie Brown held the seat for a number of years in the Regan era, only to be followed by PC MLA Tom McInnis during the Buchanan years.

Voter Turnout: 69 per cent in 2003.