News release

Province Moves to Protect Consumer Interests

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Province Moves to Protect Consumer Interests


Barry Barnet, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, has appointed Daniel MacKay as the administrator of Heatherdale Memorial Gardens in Alma, Pictou Co.

The appointment of an administrator addresses the uncertainty surrounding Heatherdale following the death of the owner last year. The appointment will ensure that burials can resume, the facility is maintained and that it remains open and available to families and friends of those interred there.

Burials at Heatherdale can resume on May 10. The Perpetual Care Fund maintained by the previous operator will be available to provide for the maintenance of the grounds.

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations staff are developing a refund process for clients who have prepaid for cemetery goods and services. More information about the refund process will be available in a few weeks.

Mr. MacKay, an employee of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations in New Glasgow, is knowledgeable of the industry and has consumer protection expertise. His appointment follows changes to the Cemetery and Funeral Services Act that came into effect on April 23.

The person responsible for the former owner's estate was unable to find a buyer for the cemetery and ceased operations earlier this year. In addition to overseeing Heatherdale's operations, the administrator will try to find a new permanent operator for the cemetery.