News release

Utility and Review Board Appointment Process Changed

Justice

The province has changed the way people are appointed to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board. The appointment process, outlined today by Justice Minister Michael Baker, closely resembles the model used for provincial judicial appointments.

"We're making sure appointments are merit-based, as we promised we would. Appointments to the Utility and Review Board will now be made in the same manner as provincial judicial appointments - a process that has been described as one of the best in the country," said Mr. Baker. "Ability is the criteria that matters and this process will ensure that everyone selected has the ability to do the job."

Appointees will be recommended to Executive Council by an advisory committee. The committee will include the chair of the Utility Review Board, or a designate, two lay persons from among the four who serve on the Judicial Appointments Advisory Committee and a human resource professional. In the case of a full-time appointment, the committee will include a member of an administrative tribunal from another province.

Should there be a requirement for an individual from a specified profession, a representative of the relevant professional association shall also serve. The committee will provide a short list of at least three candidates with a summary of information on each. They will not be ranked.

All vacancies will be advertised. The committee has a range of criteria to consider when evaluating candidates, including: integrity and fairness; open-mindedness; flexibility and a commitment to public service with sensitivity to the changes in social values relating to matters coming before the board. If a professional designation is required, the individual must be a member in good standing with at least five years of experience.

All future vacancies will be filled in accordance with the new process.