Premier Dexter Receives Economic Report from Donald Savoie

Premier Darrell Dexter today, July 29, received advice and recommendations from Donald Savoie, Canada Research Chair in Public Administration, on how to improve Nova Scotia's economic development initiatives.

"I asked Mr. Savoie to take a look at Nova Scotia's current economic development effort and make recommendations on how it can be more effective from the perspective of those who would want to invest and do business here in Nova Scotia," said Premier Dexter.

The report, titled Invest More, Innovate More, Trade More, Learn More: The Way Ahead for Nova Scotia, focuses on the work of many of the province's economic development agencies including Nova Scotia Business Inc., Film Nova Scotia, Trade Centre Limited, Waterfront Development Corporation, Innovacorp, regional development authorities and the departments of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

"We can't improve on economic development in Nova Scotia if we don't have a full picture of what is being done across the province and this report provides us with that valuable information," said Premier Dexter. "As government moves forward with the plan to create good jobs, grow the economy and make life better for families, this analysis will help us continue to improve our approach to jobs and economic development."

Premier Dexter will now turn the report over to the co-chairs of his Council on the Economy, Rick Clarke and Robert Patzelt for review, input and consideration by the council.

"On behalf of the Premier's Council on the Economy we thank the premier for referring this report to us and we look forward to reviewing and discussing Mr. Savoie's recommendations with council members," said Mr. Clarke.

Mr. Savoie made 24 recommendations and highlighted several areas where Nova Scotia has achieved success with economic development initiatives. They include the partnering with credit unions on loan programs for aspiring entrepreneurs, opportunities gained from exporting government's knowledge and expertise in solid waste management, and effective investment attraction and business start-up support from Nova Scotia Business Inc., Innovacorp and the Industrial Expansion Fund. He also highlighted the strong working relationship with the federal government and other economic development organizations.

"Nova Scotia holds great potential for economic growth, and the recommendations in this report outline ways for helping the province achieve it," said Mr. Savoie.

Premier Dexter thanked Mr. Savoie for his work and valuable analysis that will help inform government on what can be done to ensure Nova Scotia has a strong and vibrant economy.

A copy of the report is available at www.gov.ns.ca/premier .