News release

Department Will Address All Auditor General Recommendations

Labour and Advanced Education (Jan. 2011 - Aug. 2021)

Government will act on all 25 recommendations related to the Office of the Fire Marshal contained in the auditor general's semi-annual report released today, May 18, said Labour and Advanced Education Minister Marilyn More.

"Public safety is a priority and will not be compromised," said Ms. More. "We will address all of the auditor general's recommendations within the next 18 months."

The recommendations cover the areas of management information, monitoring fire inspection activities in municipalities, inspection, compliance and enforcement, and fire safety education.

The Department of Labour and Advanced Education has responded to the recommendations and attached timelines for addressing each one.

"We have already assigned a project director who has developed a working plan for each recommendation," said Ms. More. "The majority of the recommendations will be addressed or underway by the end of this year and we will issue progress reports so everyone can see what action is being taken.

"As of today, we have started an inventory of buildings that require fire inspections, implemented daily and monthly reporting routines, are developing an interim management information system, and have worked out an agreement to ensure all public schools will be inspected as required under legislation."

The Office of the Fire Marshal is responsible for the oversight of fire safety in buildings and for safe storage of flammable and combustible materials. The office advises various levels of government and municipalities on fire-related matters including fire protection systems and provides education on fire prevention to interested groups.

"Those working at the Office of the Fire Marshal are dedicated professionals who protect the public from fire safety risks," said Ms. More. "The recommendations contained in the auditor general's report provide an opportunity to improve fire prevention and investigation in Nova Scotia."

For more information about the Office of the Fire Marshal, visit www.gov.ns.ca/lae/publicsafety/ofm.asp .