French-language Licence Plate Unveiled

Nova Scotians can display pride in their Acadian heritage with a new, optional French-language licence plate.

Based on public input, the Acadian flag will be the image featured on the new licence plate, which was unveiled today, Aug. 15.

Nova Scotians provided input by completing survey questions asking them to select one of four Acadian-themed licence plate designs and to include their thoughts on a possible donation that could be used to support the long-term development of the Acadian and francophone community.

"We received input from over 1,500 Nova Scotians on the plate design as well as the donation fee," said John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "Now that we have chosen a design, we can move forward to manufacture the plate and make the necessary changes to the Registry of Motor Vehicles system to include the new plate."

"Acadians are proud of their heritage," said Graham Steele, Minister of Acadian Affairs. "By opting for this new licence plate, Nova Scotians will be showing their Acadian pride and, at the same time, supporting their local community."

Eighty-four per cent of survey respondents chose the image of the Acadian flag. Sixty per cent said a donation should be collected as part of a cultural fund for Acadian and francophone community projects. The entire donation will go back to the Acadian community in which it originated. Acadian Affairs will manage the cultural fund, called the Vive l'Acadie Community Support Fund.

The new licence plate is expected to be available in January. It will be issued, by request, to passenger and light commercial vehicles up to 5,000 kilograms. Standard registration fees will apply, in addition to a $50 donation fee, which will be collected initially and on registration renewals.

For more information, call 424-5851 in HRM or toll-free 1-800-898-7668. A video of the unveiling is available at www.accessns.ca/plate or www.accessns.ca/immatriculation.