Intergovernmental Affairs advances the interests of Nova Scotia by creating
and pursuing intergovernmental opportunities; by identifying and addressing
challenges through relationships with other departments, governments, and key
non-governmental organizations; and through the provision of quality services
including leadership, expert advice, research, information gathering, policy
expertise, protocol expertise and analysis.
Mission Statement:
To provide leadership in the development of corporate strategies for Nova Scotia's relations with governments and organizations.
Mandate
Intergovernmental Affairs receives its mandate from section 46 subsections D and E of the Public Service Act. The Act states that - under the direction of its Minister - the department is responsible for coordinating and advancing the province's interests with the Government of Canada, other provinces, and foreign governments at the national and sub-national levels. It is also focused on serving as a central point of contact for the coordination of the province's intergovernmental priorities and protocol requirements. It provides strategic direction and support to the province's trade policy requirements, as well as its interprovincial and international trade negotiations, agreements, and disputes.
Role
- Coordinate the overall intergovernmental strategy of the Nova Scotia government to ensure a corporate approach to other governments.
- Ensure fairness to Nova Scotia in negotiations with the Government of Canada and other governments.
- Build on regional alliances to promote issues of fairness for Nova Scotians and Atlantic Canadians and to promote regional programs and services that benefit citizens.
- Expand Nova Scotia's international linkages to support and promote Nova Scotia's interests abroad.
- Increase awareness and understanding, both within the Nova Scotia government and in other governments,of this province's position relative to key intergovernmental issues.