Changes to Acadian Affairs Office

Nova Scotia's Office of Acadian Affairs is undergoing changes to better meet the needs of the community it serves, Acadian Affairs Minister Neil LeBlanc said today.

As a result of these changes, which are part of the current restructuring initiative in government, the position of a full- time executive director is not required at this time.

"As we strive towards new objectives, we must focus our resources on those efforts," Mr. LeBlanc said. "The former executive director, Paul Gaudet, served Nova Scotians well during his tenure at Acadian Affairs. I certainly wish him the best in his future endeavours."

Funding for Acadian Affairs in the 2000-01 budget was maintained at the previous year's level of $110,000, and is an increase over the 1998-99 budget. However, salary and expenses of the executive director consumed 68 per cent of the office's budget in 1998-99.

"With such limited resources we must look at other ways to better meet the needs of the Acadian community in Nova Scotia," said Mr. LeBlanc.

The minister said he intends to consult with Acadian organizations, such as the Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle Écosse, to find other ways the office can better meet the community's needs. In the meantime, he said the Office of Acadian Affairs will continue to assist the Acadian community and represent its interests in government.

He indicated one way service will be improved is to make it easier for Acadians to communicate with the minister's office. Effective Monday, June 26, the Office of the Minister will be able to offer callers service in the language of their choice.

"Such a service is of utmost importance to me as Minister responsible for Acadian Affairs, and allows us to better serve Acadians in Nova Scotia," said the minister.

AUX RÉDACTEURS EN CHEF: Pour version français, c. élec. [email protected] .