Independent Review of Province's Finances Begins July 6

A request for proposals for an independent review of the province's finances will be issued Tuesday, June 23, Premier Darrell Dexter announced, today June 22.

That request for proposals will close Thursday, July 2 and the actual review will begin July 6.

"This independent review will fulfill a commitment we made to Nova Scotians," Premier Dexter said. "It will give us a clear picture of the province's finances and a clear understanding of the challenges the new government will face. It will be the first step toward ensuring this province lives within its means."

The review will be conducted in two phases. The first phase will examine the province's finances, with an interim report required by Aug. 7. The second phase will examine a number of issues, which have been previously raised by the Auditor General, including how prepayments should be treated and whether capital and operating budgets should be separated. A final report will be due Oct. 16.

"Coupled with the excellent information we are receiving from finance officials, we know this information will help us to make the decisions that are in the best interests of Nova Scotians," said Premier Dexter.