Amendments Introduced to the Public Archives Act

Appointments to the board of trustees at the Public Archives of Nova Scotia will be in line with the practice in other provinces with legislative amendments introduced today, April 12.

"The Public Archives of Nova Scotia plays an important role in preserving our province's documentary heritage," said David Wilson, Minister of Comminutes, Culture and Heritage. "The changes to the act bring Nova Scotia in line with best practices in the rest of the country and ensures the public will continue to enjoy a high level of service from the archives."

The proposed changes to the Public Archives Act mean the Chief Justice of Nova Scotia will no longer have to serve as chair and a member of the board of trustees. Nova Scotia was the only province with this requirement. The chair will now be appointed by cabinet from among the members of the board.

The amendments also mean the position of provincial archivist will now be considered a civil servant, eliminating the need for an order in council appointment. The amendment brings the practice of recruiting the position into compliance with the Civil Service Act.

Other administrative changes to the act reflect the realignment of government departments announced in January by correcting references to officials and the name of the department responsible for the archives.