By Wendy Elliott
Scott Brison would like to see more work done at the Kentville Research Centre to assist Nova Scotia wineries.
“We should be ramping up viticulture into the next phase,” the Kings-Hants MP said. “This is one of the bright spots in our area and in our province.”
Brison was joined by interim Liberal Leader Bob Rae during a recent roundtable discussion with winery operators from across the province.
Pete Luckett, the newest winery owner, explained Nova Scotia is building a reputation for crisp white wines and a significant industry is developing here.
Hanspeter Stutz, of Domain de Grand Pre, spoke about the potential to boost European tourism and specific research underway at universities like Acadia.
Winemaker Gina Haverstock said her husband Sean Myles is a grape researcher based at the Kentville agriculture centre with ties to both Acadia and the Nova Scotia Agriculture College.
The winery delegation also delved into lobbying efforts to get the federal government to change legislation, which prohibits them from selling their products onsite across provincial borders.
Brison said he advocates the removal of interprovincial trade barriers because they are bad for the provincial and national economy and killing jobs in Nova Scotia.
