by Father Paul Abbass is resigning as Executive Director of Talbot House—the addictions and recovery centre in Frenchvale. Abbass says that the environment in addictions and recovery is changing, and that it’s time for a change of leadership at the centre. He adds that he’s glad to be able to leave knowing that Talbot House is functioning effectively and making a difference in peoples’ lives. Abbass’ resignation takes effect on June 15th. The facility was at the centre of controversy when unspecified allegations were made against Abbass, leading to his resignation and the closure of the facility in February of 2012. A police investigation found no wrongdoing on Abbass’ part, though Talbot House continued to face troubles in a dispute with the Community Services Department, which reviewed the facility’s operations and claimed that proper procedures weren’t being followed. Abbass returned as executive director in September of 2012, and the facility re-opened in 2013 following a groundswell of support from current and former residents. The chair of the board of directors, Jim Gogan, says that a search for a new executive director will begin in the near future.
Dave Desveaux
Dave Desveaux, a native of New Waterford leverages his experience and passion for research in The Coast 89.7 Newsroom where as the Weekday Newscaster. His foray into radio began with a research position at The Coast, which led to the production of a radio documentary on the music of the Mi’kmaq people. The program, entitled “First Nations, First Music” was co-produced with fellow Coast personality Ron Neville and released in early 2011. A graduate of Breton Education Centre, Dave went on to get a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Sociology from Cape Breton University, as well as a Master of Arts Degree in Sociology from Dalhousie University. He has worked as a teaching assistant at Dalhousie, and in various short-term customer service and research positions.
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