2 female MLAs allege premier's conduct intimidating, seek ruling from Speaker

Two MLAs are accusing Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston of abusive behaviour meant to intimidate opposition members, particularly women.

Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, who has sat as an Independent since being tossed from the PC caucus for participating in a blockade of the Trans-Canada Highway last summer, has asked Speaker Keith Bain to rule on whether her former leader's behaviour was meant to intimidate her.

She said after she complained about what she considered the premier's attempt to influence the chair of a committee during debate, Houston lobbed an insult her way "loud enough for everyone in the chamber to hear".

"He made a derogatory comment meant to intimidate and meant to embarrass me," said Smith-McCrossin. "It was very upsetting."

"It makes me feel uncomfortable to even come in this chamber to know that there are things being said and done to purposely intimidate me, which I do feel affects my ability to work effectively and confidently to represent the people of Cumberland North."

According to former Liberal cabinet minister Kelly Regan, Houston shouted, "Why don't you block another highway?" Smith-McCrossin confirmed that's what she heard too.

But as MLAs filed out of the chamber after the sitting officially ended late Friday, Houston flatly denied that's what he said.

"No, I did not," he said. "Listen, look, tensions are always high in the House, particularly at the end of the sessions."

"Session's over. It was a productive session. Lots of legislation passed and budget passed. We're going to leave on a high note."

Asked what he did say to Smith-McCrossin, Houston responded, "Look, things happen in the chamber and things get said back and forth," he said.

"We closed the session and it's a good day and we're going home and back to our constituencies."

In a separate but related incident, Regan has officially complained to the Speaker about the way a PC cabinet minister treated her and others.

Smith-McCrossin left the chamber after the disagreement with Houston. Regan joined her with another Liberal, Patricia Arab.

The three were speaking when Economic Development Minister Susan Corkum-Greek walked by and called the women a "coven," or gathering of witches.