Amendments to Emergency Measures Act Focus on Management

Updates to the province's Emergency Measures Act will help Nova Scotia remain a leader in emergency management. Amendments to the legislation were introduced today, Oct. 18, by Ernest Fage, minister responsible for the act.

The name of the act will change to the Emergency Management Act, which better reflects the role government plays in emergencies. Other areas of the act are amended to focus on the main elements of emergency management -- mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

"This legislation demonstrates the province's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety of Nova Scotians," said Mr. Fage. "Nova Scotians have already started to think about emergencies differently. It's time our legislation reflects our new thinking."

Other amendments will enable the province to work more closely with American officials from various New England states, giving the province access to equipment and personnel in times of emergency.

"These amendments help to ensure that we can receive assistance from our American counterparts," said the minister.