News release

Nova Scotia Counts Released

Premier's Office

The first edition of Nova Scotia Counts, a report card on the province's goals and its progress in achieving those goals, has been released.

"Nova Scotia is a great place to live," said Premier Russell MacLellan. "We are committed to making it even better. This report tells Nova Scotians where we stand today, and the level of success we're aiming for in the future."

Nova Scotia Counts lists 55 measures under the headings of social responsibility, economic growth, responsive government and fiscal stability. The measures cover a range of topics from private sector investment to crime rate to involvement in recycling programs.

Each year at budget time, government releases its plans for the year in Government by Design, a compilation of departmental and government business plans. Nova Scotia Counts is the followup report, charting progress and providing a solid base of information for planning purposes.

"This is about being accountable," said the premier. "Nova Scotians deserve to know where they stand. We want to be open and accountable to the people of this province."

Some highlights of the report are:

  • more Nova Scotians (general population and workforce) graduate from post-secondary institutions than the national average

  • Nova Scotia has a lower crime rate than the Canadian average

  • Nova Scotians take part in more cultural and recreational events, and civic and voluntary activities than the national average

  • Nova Scotia has seen steady, positive growth in new private sector investment, new jobs, GDP growth and the value of exports

  • the province has a high degree of labour stability compared with the national average

  • Nova Scotia has the lowest small business tax rate in Canada, tied with Newfoundland.

  • Nova Scotia has the second lowest personal tax rate in Canada, next to Alberta

The province has set high standards of success and improvement in all areas. These standards were developed by the Outcomes Measures Committee, consisting of staff from all government departments who have expertise in performance measurement. The premier thanked all staff for their dedication to this process.

"We want to build a province where every individual can realize their full potential, and build a good, secure life and future for their family," said the premier. "That's our ultimate goal."

Nova Scotia Counts is available, free of charge, at the Nova Scotia Government Bookstore, 1700 Granville Street, Halifax, 1-800-526-6575 or 902-424-7580.

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