Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston is considering legislation to protect the right to wear poppies at work after two judges instructed court staff not to wear them in courtrooms.
The controversy emerged following a report by the Atlantic edition of Frank Magazine. Judges Ronda van der Hoek, associate chief judge of the Provincial Court, and Jean Dewolfe of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court’s family division, both based at the Kentville Justice Centre, reportedly banned staff from wearing poppies during court sessions.
“It has come to my attention that earlier this week there was an order issued prohibiting individuals working in certain court facilities from wearing poppies while on duty in those locations,” Premier Houston posted on X.
“This order was issued under the guise that the poppy is somehow a ‘political statement.’ This is disgusting. The poppy is not a political statement. It is a symbol of remembrance and respect for the fallen and those who served and continue to serve our country.”
Andrew Preeper, spokesperson for the Nova Scotia courts, clarified that no discussions regarding poppies were held inside the courtroom.
Premier Houston strongly opposes the judges’ ban on poppies, emphasizing the flower’s role as a respectful symbol rather than a political sign, and may pursue legal protections for its workplace display.