Commission Named to Help Seize Opportunities

Published by the Premier's Office

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Premier Darrell Dexter has appointed a commission to seize the opportunities in Nova Scotia's future and spread the benefits across the province. The Nova Scotia Commission on Building our New Economy will be led by Ray Ivany and include Nova Scotia leaders John Bragg, Dan Christmas, Irene d'Entremont, and Susanna Fuller.

Quotes

“ In the next five to 10 years, I believe that local economies throughout Nova Scotia, in HRM and outside HRM, can thrive, not simply survive. But to do that, we also must understand our province's common opportunities, and share ideas about seizing them. ” Premier Darrell Dexter

“ Preparing for prosperity is about reaching higher to make the most of opportunity. That will mean business and community leaders need to take some risks. And Nova Scotians must understand that that's OK. ” Premier Darrell Dexter

“ We are at a unique point in our history. As Nova Scotians, it is incumbent on us to take stock of our strengths and face our challenges directly. My fellow commissioners and I are honoured to take on this important task. We will immediately begin our work and set a schedule for an extensive consultative process with the people of Nova Scotia. ” Ray Ivany, commission chair

“ I want Nova Scotians to understand that growth in one part of the province means opportunity in others. I want to break down the outdated idea that regions of the province are competing against each other. How can a business owner in Dartmouth learn from the success of a business owner in Oxford? ” Premier Darrell Dexter

“ How do we ensure that small businesses in towns like Lockeport, Pictou or Cheticamp take the steps they need to export their products to the world? ” Premier Darrell Dexter

“ Above all, I encourage the commission to help Nova Scotians participate in this process, to put more and more people, families and communities in a position to win and to grow. ” Premier Darrell Dexter

Quick Facts

• Government, business, and labour have partnered in a new spirit of co-operation to create tremendous opportunity for the province.
• Nova Scotia is building ships, creating thousands of good, modern jobs, exploring the offshore, constructing the Maritime Link, and modernizing its forestry and natural resource sectors.
• The Premier's Advisory Council on the Economy will oversee the independent commission. Their work is expected to take place over the next 18 months.
• The commission will look at how provincial priorities of innovation, skills training, and competitiveness work in a local context, in tourism, manufacturing and primary production sectors, for young people, workers and families that seek a better life in their home communities.
• With the value of Nova Scotia's natural resources increasing, the commission will engage Nova Scotians on how to manage the social and environmental risks that sometimes go with economic development.

Learn More

• Commissioner bios
• Premier's Office

Media Contact

Melissa MacKinnon

Executive Council

902-240-9077

E-mail: mackinnm@gov.ns.ca