More Protection for Volunteers

Nova Scotians who volunteer for non-profit organizations would have even more protection under legislation introduced today, Oct. 2, by Justice Minister Michael Baker.

Further amendments to the Volunteer Protection Act are intended to deter people from suing volunteers, by forcing them to pay the full court-approved legal defence costs of the volunteer in the event that a lawsuit is unsuccessful.

"This strengthens the legislation, which already limits the liability of volunteers who serve non-profit organizations," said Mr. Baker. "This amendment will hold accountable those who sue a volunteer if the case has no merit."

Mr. Baker said the change should also help encourage even more Nova Scotians to devote their time and energy to non-profit organizations.

"Volunteers are special," he said. "They help us feel proud about our people and communities. They contribute to a healthier, stronger Nova Scotia, and we thank them for their dedicated service."

The Volunteer Protection Act, proclaimed on Dec. 23, 2002, already sets out a number of circumstances where volunteers are not liable for damages.

They include:

• when volunteers are acting within the scope of their responsibilities;
• when volunteers are properly licenced, certified or authorized by the appropriate authorities.

The Act also prevents non-profit organizations from recovering costs from volunteers, in cases where the organizations are found liable and must pay damages.

A non-profit organization means any non-profit body or society incorporated under the Societies Act organized and conducted for public benefit, and operated for the following purposes: charitable, civic, educational, religious, welfare, health, sport, recreation, tourism, heritage or culture. This could include a municipality, school board, regional library board or a hospital.