Government Addresses Auditor General's Concerns

The Auditor General will now have access to privileged documents in order to complete his audit of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program.

Auditor General Jacques Lapointe will view the documents at the Department of Justice's offices without making copies in order to maintain solicitor-client privilege.

The government and Auditor General came to this solution so that he can complete his audit.

"I am confident this solution will protect the important principles of solicitor-client privilege and cabinet confidentiality while at the same time ensuring public accountability through the audit process," said Attorney General Cecil Clarke.

The Auditor General's access will commence this week. The government will also work with the Office of the Auditor General to review the office's legislation with the aim to create statutory protection of privileged documents.

"If appropriate, we will bring forward legislation that will protect the Auditor General from court orders requiring the release of confidential documents. We want to deal with this accountability issue in the public interest" said Mr. Clarke.