Minister Appoints Former Chief Justice to Lead Natural Resources Strategy

Retired Chief Justice of Nova Scotia Constance Glube has been named chair of a steering panel to lead the development of a new strategy governing the province's natural resources.

Natural Resources Minister David Morse made the announcement today, Dec. 23.

"Nova Scotians will be extremely well served by such a highly respected chair," said Mr. Morse. "I want to thank Ms. Glube for accepting the position. She will guide the process as we drill down into the issues and tap into the technical expertise required to develop the new natural resources strategy."

The steering panel is charged with overseeing the balance of the strategy process, starting with phase two, which will incorporate information collected through public consultations held earlier this year. More panel members will be named soon.

In the third and final stage, the steering panel will review the strategy and ensure it accurately reflects what was heard in the first two phases. The strategy is expected to be completed by March 2010.

"I am delighted to be taking on the role of chair of the steering panel and look forward to building on the work co-ordinated by Voluntary Planning during the past year," said Ms. Glube. "I am confident that the panel will remain faithful to the values of Nova Scotians as we move to the next phase of the process."

Voluntary Planning, which organized public consultations during phase one of the strategy process, will submit its final report to the minister early in the new year.

"More than 2,000 Nova Scotians from all walks of life participated in 27 sessions across the province, and submitted more than 600 written submissions," said Mr. Morse. "This was a very successful exercise in public engagement. I want to thank Voluntary Planning for capturing what Nova Scotians value about their natural resources, and identifying the important themes that will guide the work in phase two."

The department is also seeking applicants for four, three-member panels of expertise to focus on the key components of the strategy: forests, minerals, parks and biodiversity. A call for applications will be advertised in early January.

Under the guidance of the steering panel, the four panels of expertise will define the process for further researching the issues and themes that emerged during the consultation process.

"It is important, especially given the current economic climate, that we have a strategy that builds a better future for Nova Scotians through responsible, well-planned management of our natural resources," said Mr. Morse.

More information on the natural resources strategy process is available at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/ .