Co-Chairs Announced for Premier's Council on the Economy

Premier Darrell Dexter, today, Jan. 22, appointed leaders from Nova Scotia's business and labour sectors to serve as co-chairs of the Premier's Council on the Economy.

Robert Patzelt, vice-president of Scotia Investments and Rick Clarke, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour agreed to serve as co-chairs for the council.

"I want to thank both Robert and Rick for agreeing to co-chair this important council," said Premier Dexter. "Their work will help inform government decisions on how to grow the economy, live within our means and ultimately make life better for Nova Scotia families."

In November, an economic advisory panel recommended that the premier create a council on the economy to provide advice to government on strategies and actions to grow the economy. The council will also act as a sounding board for the premier on government initiatives for economic development and fiscal management.

The advisory panel recommended that leaders from Nova Scotia's business, labour, and voluntary sectors make up the council.

"The creation of this council is a progressive step forward and we are pleased to be a part of it," said Mr. Clarke. "Economic development is a matter of great interest and importance to Nova Scotians, and I look forward to working with Robert as co-chairs, to provide government with the solid advice and recommendations they need to help build a stronger and more prosperous Nova Scotia."

Terms of reference for the council have been drafted and other members from the business, labour and voluntary sectors will be recruited shortly. The council will meet three times a year.