Documents Start Provincewide Consultation
Community Services Minister Francene Cosman released two documents today to mark the start of a provincewide consultation on improving and updating Nova Scotia's social assistance policies.
The department's Social Assistance Restructuring Initiative has produced Rebuilding the System: A Discussion Paper and a companion document, Summary Report of the Focus Group Initiative. Both are being mailed out to stakeholders starting today.
"I am pleased to make these papers available to engage the public in a very important discussion," said Ms. Cosman. "All Nova Scotians have a stake in making our social assistance system the best it can be."
The provincewide consultation is part of the second phase of the Social Assistance Restructuring Initiative, a multi-year project to enhance Nova Scotia's social assistance programs. The Department of Community Services completed the first phase April 1, when the province assumed administrative responsibility for all social assistance programs and enhanced benefits for many former municipal clients. The project is currently focused on updating the province's social assistance programs and policies.
The two documents released today elaborate on some key policy issues that need to be analysed and addressed in Nova Scotia. Questions include what kind of work incentives should be offered to clients, how to address the social assistance needs of youth, and whether to make special provisions for people with disabilities.
The discussion paper describes the framework for the Social Assistance Restructuring Initiative, and outlines a number of goals and ideas for public comment. The summary report of the focus groups, prepared by an independent consultant, captures the results of discussions held with clients, staff and community groups across the province last fall and winter.
Consultation is essential, given the wide range of opinion on these complex issues, the minister noted. The input will be used to develop new policies and eventually new legislation.
"We're listening to Nova Scotians," said Ms. Cosman. "Government needs to know where Nova Scotians want to go with social assistance in the future, as well as how they think we should get there."
The department has undertaken some significant activities related to Social Assistance Restructuring in recent months, including taking on responsibility for municipal social assistance programs and launching the National Child Benefit program. Release of the discussion paper fulfils a promise made in the Speech from the Throne this spring.
"We are now in a good position to proceed with the broader consultation," she said. "We want to make a strategic investment in Nova Scotia's future. Good social assistance policy is part of that."
The documents will be distributed to stakeholders over the next week. They will also be available through the Government Bookstore (1700 Granville St., Halifax, 1-800-526-6575), public libraries, Community Services offices, and on the department's website, www.gov.ns.ca/coms . Alternative formats will be available on request.
Groups and individuals are being asked to respond by Oct. 30, 1998.
NOTE TO EDITORS: Media may pick up copies of the documents at Communications Nova Scotia, Media Services, now located on the third floor, Provincial Building, 1723 Hollis St., Halifax.