Provincial Website Privacy Policy Launched

A new policy that will further protect the personal information of Nova Scotians was launched on June 1.

Government websites are being used more frequently to submit requests for information, to access services and to obtain public opinion. The Website Privacy Policy is designed to ensure that personal information is used only for stated purposes and that it is not shared without specific permission.

"We are now offering the convenience of more online services. Due to the increase in online access to these services, we needed a policy to protect personal information provided to us by Nova Scotians," said Economic Development Minister Ernest Fage.

The policy takes into account the requirements of the provincial Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIPOP) Act. It will protect all personal information including names, addresses, telephone numbers, credit card information, driver's licence numbers, and health-care history.

A link to the privacy policy can be found on the main government website, www.gov.ns.ca , and will be on all government sites by Sept. 1. For more information on the provincial website privacy policy, visit www.gov.ns.ca/privacy .