Social Assistance Restructuring Updated

Community Services Minister Francene Cosman released a progress report today outlining the achievements and future direction of Nova Scotia's Social Assistance Restructuring Initiative.

Rebuilding the System: Progress Report updates the restructuring initiative and presents a summary of the feedback on a 1998 discussion paper titled Rebuilding the System. It also outlines the next steps for a comprehensive review of all aspects of Nova Scotia's social assistance system.

"We have made some major improvements in the social assistance system already, and the feedback has been very constructive," said Ms. Cosman. "We have also documented some complex issues, and it is clear we will have to roll up our sleeves to tackle them."

In the first phase of social assistance restructuring, officially accomplished April 1, 1998, the Department of Community Services assumed responsibility for delivering all municipal social assistance programs. Among the benefits to clients are a standard set of rates, a uniform special needs policy and universal Pharmacare.

Social assistance restructuring is now into the second phase, which involves reviewing and updating policies and developing new legislation.

"There are some complex issues to be addressed, and we will need everyone's co-operation to consider all the policy options thoroughly," said Ms. Cosman.

To ensure continued consultation throughout the process, the minister will establish a policy reference group with membership from community and advocacy groups representing various regional and other interests.

People who provided comments on the discussion paper supported the need for changes to the social assistance system. However, the process also revealed the complexity of the issues and the range of potential solutions.

Issues include the role of social assistance in an increasingly complex economic environment and changing labour market, the adequacy of benefits, and the unique needs of persons with disabilities.

Ms. Cosman said it is clear there are no quick fixes for the social assistance system, and the process is likely to continue into the next year.

"A major change such as this takes time. We feel the process cannot be rushed," said Ms. Cosman. "Resolving poverty issues requires the co-operation of all levels of government, community representatives, and the public at large."

Copies of Rebuilding the System: Progress Report are available from the Department of Community Services at 902-424-4326, or on the department's website at www.gov.ns.ca/coms.