Amendments to Restrict Issuance of Birth Certificates

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Amendments to Restrict Issuance of Birth Certificates

Legislation was introduced today to make it more difficult to commit identity fraud using a birth certificate. Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, proposed amendments to the Vital Statistics Act.

"We're proactively improving legislation and procedures around access to birth certificates. Security for identity documents is a national issue, especially in light of the recent terrorist activities," Mr. MacIsaac said. "Our challenge is to try to prevent identity theft without imposing burdensome red tape for the thousands of people who request a birth certificate each year."

Changes to the Vital Statistics Act will restrict the issuance of birth certificates to certain individuals including the applicant, the applicant's parents and estate trustees. The changes would also increase penalties for fraudulent use of certificates.

"We must take every possible precaution to protect the safety and security of Nova Scotians," said Justice Minister Michael Baker. "This is a practical and necessary step in doing just that."

Nova Scotia's procedures to apply for a birth certificate are in step with or ahead of other jurisdictions in Canada and the United States.

Nova Scotia Vital Statistics registers about 10,000 births and issues about 40,000 birth certificates each year. To obtain a birth certificate, a person must provide detailed information, including parents' names and place of birth. Information is checked against the original birth record and cross-referenced against death certificates.

"Processes and procedures have always kept the security of documents like birth certificates in mind. Proposed changes will serve to boost sound procedures already in place," said Elizabeth Crowley Meagher, deputy registrar general of Vital Statistics.

Ms. Crowley Meagher is a member of the Vital Statistics Council of Canada and the security committee reviewing the practices of Vital Statistics registries across Canada.

"Birth certificates are used as proof of identity by law enforcement agencies, immigration and passport officials and other governments," she said. "Research and a harmonized approach will create a higher level of confidence in our documentation."

The national committee is expected to report within the next few months.

The public also needs to protect these documents.

"Birth certificates are legal documents -- they prove your identity," said Ms. Crowley Meagher. "They should be kept in a safe place, not in your wallet."

kjd 8 November 2001 12:25 P.M.