News release

New Licence Plate Supports Buy Local Initiatives

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

Local producers will benefit from Nova Scotians purchasing the new Buy Local licence plate at Access Nova Scotia and Registry of Motor Vehicle offices.

The Select Nova Scotia image is featured on the new licence plate that was launched today, Aug. 27, by Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Minister John MacDonell. Select Nova Scotia is the province's buy local marketing initiative.

"Nova Scotians have told us they want to buy local products to support local industries such as the agriculture and seafood sectors," said Mr. MacDonell. "Nova Scotians can help promote local products by purchasing the new licence plate. This is an optional plate for drivers who want to use it on their vehicle."

David Baldwin, a Nova Scotia fruit grower, proposed the idea for a buy local licence plate when he saw one when travelling in the United States. He thought it would be a good idea for Nova Scotia.

"Every time someone sees the Buy Local licence plate on a car stopped at a traffic light, or even in a parking lot, it will serve as a reminder to those not directly involved in agriculture and food production of how important it is to eat good food grown in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Baldwin.

The plate will be issued, by request, to passenger and light commercial vehicles up to 5,000 kilograms. An application form and standard registration fees will apply, in addition to a $50 donation, when the licence is purchased and on registration renewals.

"Raising awareness about agriculture in Nova Scotia is very important to us," said Dennis Boudreau, president, Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture. "Engaging Nova Scotians to support buying local and to showcase it on their licence plate is a good step forward."

The Select Nova Scotia Fund will raise public awareness and help sponsor events supporting local products and industries. One hundred per cent of the donation collected will be used for these activities.

"Each year Select Nova Scotia sponsors groups that host the popular community suppers and Incredible Picnics," said Mr. MacDonell. "The money collected from the Select Nova Scotia fund will be used to enhance these and other initiatives that help connect Nova Scotians with their local farmers and producers."

For more information about the new licence plate, go to www.accessns.ca or call 902-424-5851 in Halifax area or toll-free 1-800-898-7668.