The search continues for a missing man in Colchester County who was the subject of an emergency alert over the weekend.

RCMP say helicopters are now being used in the search for 47-year-old Jason Lorette, last seen Thursday on Harmony Road in Salmon River.

Ground search and rescue teams from across the region are also assisting.

Police are asking residents to check surveillance footage and outbuildings, and to contact Colchester RCMP or Crime Stoppers with any information.

 

More than 5,000 long-term care workers in Nova Scotia could be heading toward a strike.

CUPE Nova Scotia says five days of conciliation talks with the province have ended without a deal, and members are now preparing for possible job action.

Workers at 52 nursing homes have been without a contract since 2023, with wages a key issue.

The province says contingency plans are in place to maintain care if a strike happens, but the union says it’s not willing to accept the current offer.

 

RCMP are investigating the theft of a historic church bell in Antigonish County.

Police say the iron bell was taken from St. David’s United Church in Cape George sometime between March 18th and 20th. Investigators believe a grinder was used to cut it from its base before it was loaded onto a truck.

Mounties say the theft is especially concerning given the bell’s cultural and religious significance.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Royal Canadian Mounted Police or Crime Stoppers.

 

Nova Scotians at highest risk from COVID-19 can now book an additional vaccine dose starting yesterday.

Health officials say those eligible include people 80 and older, long-term care residents, and anyone who is immunocompromised. Some individuals over 65 may also qualify.

Nova Scotia Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health Jesse Kancir says the extra dose helps protect against severe illness.

Appointments are available through healthcare providers or online, with the spring program running through the end of June.