Hospital Foundation Act Repealed

A bill to repeal the Nova Scotia Hospital Foundation Act will remove possible confusion and simplify administration, accounting, and record keeping.

The act has been inactive for six years.

"Repealing this act reflects the changes that have already taken place, as the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia has been successfully carrying out this role since February 2004," said Health Minister Maureen MacDonald.

The mental health foundation has a broader scope than the previous foundation, which was focused solely on the Nova Scotia Hospital, and better represents and supports services in the community and provincewide.

In June 2009, the trustees of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia unanimously approved a resolution to ask the province to repeal the act. The old Nova Scotia Hospital Foundation does not have any assets, liabilities, incomes or expenses.

"Mental health services is a priority for me personally, and for government," said Ms. MacDonald. "Repealing this act is a small step. But we will take a big step toward enhancing mental health services for Nova Scotia families later this year when we begin the development of a provincial mental health strategy."