Province Establishes Award to Recognize Brave Nova Scotians

A bill to create a medal to honour heroic actions of extraordinary Nova Scotians was introduced today, March 20.

Premier Rodney MacDonald introduced an Act to Establish an Award to Recognize Bravery of Nova Scotians, would establish the Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery (MBNS) for anyone who risks life or limb to assist someone in an emergency situation.

"We have Nova Scotians -- in uniform or without -- who go to amazing lengths to assist another in an emergency situation," said Premier MacDonald. "This medal would be a way to thank that individual or individuals for bravely thinking of others before themselves, and to hold those actions up as an outstanding model of Nova Scotian values."

If the act is passed, the premier would establish an advisory committee to help the provincial secretary make recommendations to the Executive Council on those deserving a Nova Scotia Medal of Bravery. The award could also be bestowed posthumously.

Once awarded, the recipient may use the initials M.B.N.S. after his or her name and, if employed in an occupation in which he or she wears a uniform, would be able to wear the medal on the uniform.