Summary:

South Shore—St. Margarets is a federal electoral district located in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. The district is located on the south shore of the province and encompasses many small, rural communities. The area has a rich history and is known for its scenic landscapes, cultural events, and community organizations. The district has a diverse economy that includes tourism, fishing, and agriculture.

Population centres:

The key population centres within the district are the towns of Lunenburg and Chester. Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its historic architecture, museums, and art galleries. Chester is a picturesque coastal town that is popular with tourists during the summer months.

Issues and events:

One of the key issues in the district over the past few years has been the impact of climate change on the fishing industry. The area has experienced warmer waters, which has affected the fish populations and led to lower catches for fishermen. In addition, there have been concerns about pollution from aquaculture operations in the area.

Another issue that has affected the district is the closure of the Bowater Mersey paper mill in Brooklyn. The mill was one of the largest employers in the area, and its closure had a significant impact on the local economy.

Economy:

The economy of South Shore—St. Margarets is diverse and includes tourism, fishing, agriculture, and manufacturing. Major employers in the district include Ocean Nutrition Canada, Clearwater Seafoods, and High Liner Foods.

One recent development that had a significant impact on the local economy was the opening of the Bluenose II Visitor Centre in Lunenburg. The centre serves as a hub for tourism in the area and showcases the history and culture of the town.

Important landmarks:

One of the most significant landmarks in the district is the town of Lunenburg. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its historic architecture, museums, and art galleries. Other notable landmarks in the area include Peggy's Cove, the Mahone Bay Wooden Boat Festival, and the Bluenose II Visitor Centre.

Arts and culture:

South Shore—St. Margarets is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The district is home to many museums, art galleries, and cultural events. Some of the most notable events include the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival, the Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival, and the Chester Playhouse.

The district is also home to many community organizations that support arts and culture. These include the Lunenburg Heritage Society, the Mahone Bay Centre, and the Chester Municipal Heritage Society.

Electoral issues:

During the 2021 federal election, one of the key issues in the district was the impact of COVID-19 on the local economy. Many businesses and industries in the area were affected by the pandemic, and voters were looking for candidates who could offer solutions and support.

Another issue that was important to voters was the environment. The fishing industry plays a significant role in the local economy, and concerns about pollution and climate change were top of mind for many voters.

Community organizations:

There are many community organizations in South Shore—St. Margarets that play an important role in the economic and social wellbeing of the area. Some of the most notable organizations include the South Shore Tourism Co-operative, the Nova Scotia Salmon Association, and the Lunenburg Board of Trade.

Other important groups include the South Shore Council on Aging, the South Shore Genealogical Society, and the Chester Garden Club.

Multicultural groups:

South Shore—St. Margarets is a predominantly English-speaking area with a small French-speaking community. In recent years, there has been a growing diversity in the area, with an influx of newcomers from other parts of Canada and around the world.

The district is home to many cultural groups and events that celebrate the diversity of the community. These include the South Shore Multicultural Festival, the African Heritage Month celebrations, and the Lunenburg Doc Fest.

Overall, South Shore—St. Margarets is a diverse and vibrant area with a rich history and culture. The district is renowned for its scenic landscapes, cultural events, and community spirit, and is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.