Community Services Committee Prepares Report

Nova Scotia's standing committee on community services wrapped up public hearings this week and will table its report when the legislative session resumes later this winter.

Groups and individuals made 117 presentations to the committee at public hearings held across Nova Scotia over the past four months. About 70 other submissions were made by phone, e-mail, post and fax.

"Members of the committee extend their thanks to the numerous individuals who took the time to speak to us," said committee chair Maureen MacDonald. "We know that for some it took a great deal of courage to come before a public forum and tell their private stories. But these personal experiences were often the most effective in helping people understand what Nova Scotians face within the social assistance system.

"We also thank the representatives of the many groups who took the time to prepare briefs and recommendations. The committee appreciates their ideas and participation."

Ms. MacDonald was joined on the all-party committee by fellow MLAs Jamie Muir, who was vice-chair, Paul MacEwan, Charlie MacDonald, Laurie Montgomery, Yvonne Atwell, Jerry Pye, Gordon Balser and Murray Scott.

The committee began public hearings in September in Sydney, and travelled to Port Hawkesbury, Guysborough, Stellarton, Yarmouth, Bridgewater, Kentville, Truro and Preston before wrapping up in Halifax. In all, it held 14 public sessions in the 10 communities.

Members wanted to hear from those Nova Scotians most directly affected by the provincial social assistance system to determine how it was working and to pinpoint areas for improvement. Areas of concern included education and upgrading skills programs, physical and mental support, and poverty among children and persons with disabilities.

"The level of interest and concern surrounding these topics was clearly high among Nova Scotians," said Ms. MacDonald. "The fact that we had to add four public hearings to our original schedule -- to ensure everyone had a chance to be heard by the committee -- was an obvious indication of this high interest.

"As committee members prepare their report, they will certainly be considering the many helpful ideas and recommendations presented."