Province Stops Growth of Paperwork Burden

For the first time in a generation, there is a downward trend in the paperwork burden for Nova Scotia business.

The provincial government has reduced provincial regulatory paperwork by 2.5 per cent through its Better Regulation Initiative, ending a long-established trend that saw increases in regulatory requirements.

Premier Rodney MacDonald announced the results today, Oct. 18, at a Small Business Week celebration hosted by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, where the premier also accepted an award for progress in reducing the regulatory process.

"Nova Scotia is becoming an easier place to do business," said Premier MacDonald. "We've stopped the growing trend in paperwork and have achieved a reduction, but we are aiming for greater results next year to move us closer to our 20 per cent reduction target."

Paperwork was measured using the Better Regulation Index, which calculates the hours businesses must spend on regulatory paperwork required by provincial departments. The commitment to reduce paperwork is one of several priorities of the Better Regulation Initiative.

"We know there's no short-term solution to improving the competitiveness of Nova Scotia business while still protecting our communities," said Premier MacDonald. "It's an on-going commitment that will need to change government culture, change the way we think and do our jobs. Nova Scotia needs to make better regulation a priority - and we have."

During the event, the province was recognized for its progress on regulatory reform, its commitment to meaningful measurement and reduction of the regulatory burden by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.

"Wrestling the red tape beast is no easy feat. But, the government of Nova Scotia has shown a real commitment to do just that through ongoing measurement and accountability," said Leanne Hachey, vice-president, Atlantic, Canadian Federation of Independent Business "This is something deserving of recognition."

The Better Regulation Initiative is a multi-pronged approach to improve the provincial government's regulatory climate. It aims to maintain the benefits of regulation while making it easier to do business in Nova Scotia. It involves all departments in government to create a culture of continuous improvement that will result in simpler, more effective regulation.