The Policy Branch leads the corporate policy function of government. In collaboration with government agencies and departments, the Policy Branch provides analysis, research, discussion and advice on:
- Long-term trends affecting the province
- Cross-departmental issues
- Policy capacity initiatives
- Government’s direction and its implementation.
The Policy Branch identifies significant short- and long-term policy challenges and, in some cases leads cross government policy development.
On a more operational level, the branch ensures that Executive Council has the information, analysis, and options it requires to make informed decisions on emerging issues. The branch analyzes submissions to Executive Council and reviews all presentations to Executive Council and its committees. In collaboration with the sponsoring agency, the branch analyzes and makes recommendations to ensure proposals are consistent with government priorities, including the New Nova Scotia.