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Nova Scotia Restores $53.6 Million in Grants After Budget Backlash

The premier moved to undo part of the grant reductions after days of protests, pledging further adjustments as the legislature reviews the budget.

Overview

  • Premier Tim Houston apologized for aspects of the 2026–27 budget and said his government "got it wrong" on some grant cuts.
  • The province will reinstate $21.4 million for seniors, people with disabilities, and programs aiding African Nova Scotian and Indigenous students, plus $10 million for supporting organizations and $22.2 million for community programs.
  • With the restorations, the projected deficit rises to $1.24 billion, up from roughly $1.2 billion in the original plan to save about $130 million by reducing or eliminating more than 280 grants.
  • Funding for the arts sector remains at the previously announced $66 million, even as rallies drew participants from arts, Indigenous, African Nova Scotian, and environmental groups outside Province House.
  • The budget remains under legislative review, and Houston said there is still an opportunity to make further changes before it is finalized.