Change to Enhance Emergency Management, Safety of Nova Scotians

The province is taking an important step to better co-ordinate public safety and enhance its ability to prepare for, and manage, major emergencies.

Beginning today, April 19, the Emergency Management Office is a division of the Department of Justice.

"Nothing is more important than the safety of our family and loved ones," said Ross Landry, Minister of Justice. "More closely aligning the Emergency Management Office with other divisions responsible for the safety of all Nova Scotians under Justice will allow for greater co-ordination and ensure that Nova Scotia is as prepared as possible for any threat."

As a division of Justice, EMO will continue to prepare for, and coordinate responses to, major threats to Nova Scotia's people, property and environment.

The adjustment will improve information sharing and enhance continuity of services and contingency planning.

"By sharing resource units like finance and human resources, we expect some savings will be realized, while the services on which Nova Scotians most rely, including 911 and grants to ground search and rescue teams, are protected," said Mr. Landry.

Last year, ministerial and CEO responsibilities for EMO were transferred to the Department of Justice.