News release

Amendments Make it Easier for Professionals to Work in Nova Scotia

Labour and Advanced Education (Jan. 2011 - Aug. 2021)

Government is making it easier for professionals to work in the province.

Labour and Advanced Education Minister Kelly Regan introduced amendments to the Fair Registration Practices Act today, March 27.

Changes to the act will ensure people who have trained outside the province receive a fair review of their qualifications, and make it clear that regulatory bodies overseeing professions are subject to the legislation and annual reporting.

Some occupations, like professional engineers, physicians and surgeons, have to meet certain standards or qualifications to practice in the province. These occupations are overseen by larger regulatory bodies that set the standards or requirements, and assess and recognize qualifications of workers. The act requires these regulatory bodies to report their registration, review and appeal processes, and fees. This ensures they are accountable and their practices are objective and transparent.

Amendments will allow the minister to add new regulatory bodies without seeking approval from Executive Council, and allow the annual report to be tabled outside of legislative sessions so it can be shared in a timelier manner with stakeholders.