Applications Sought for Agencies, Boards, Commissions

Nova Scotians who want to serve the public are encouraged to apply for the many positions available through Nova Scotia's agencies, boards and commissions.

Executive Council Office deputy president Frank Corbett today, Oct. 14, launched the fall recruitment campaign to encourage more people from all parts of the province to get involved.

"I am very pleased with the increase in interest from Nova Scotians who want to serve on the province's many agencies, boards and commissions," said Mr. Corbett. "I know there are many talented and knowledgeable people from all walks of life who would be a great asset and I encourage them to put their name forward for consideration."

There are more than 170 agencies, boards and commissions in the province.

Adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions serve a variety of roles and interests and have quasi-judicial functions. They review evidence, make findings of fact and law, and make decisions affecting the liberty, security or legal rights of individuals. Members must apply legal principles and sound professional and technical principles for their decisions. Some examples of adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions include:

• Labour Board
• Nova Scotia Natural Products Marketing Council
• Teachers' Certification Appeal Board.

Non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions make financial, regulatory, business, or policy decisions or recommendations to government. They have far-reaching implications for Nova Scotians in many areas, from children and youth services to loan and licensing boards. Some examples of non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions include:

• Advisory Council on the Status of Women
• Council of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia
• Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission

"Improving the occupational health and safety of Nova Scotia workers is a fundamental component of the work I do as a safety professional," said Jacqueline Hatt, Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Council member. "Having the opportunity to advise government and, in doing so, improve the health and safety of all Nova Scotia workers is very rewarding."

Applicants are assessed on skills and qualifications and the needs of individual agencies, boards or commissions.

For board position profiles, current opportunities and how to apply, visit www.gov.ns.ca/exec_council/abc or contact the Executive Council Office at 424-4877 or toll free at 1-866-206-6844.

The province has an Employment Equity Policy and welcomes applications from Aboriginal people, African Nova Scotians and other racially visible people, persons with disabilities and women. People are encouraged to self-identify on applications, covering letters or resumes.

The application deadline for adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions is Nov. 21. Applications for non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions are welcome any time, with assessments beginning Nov. 18.