Government has decided an alternative service delivery option, through a private sector partner, is not the right option to modernize the motor vehicles, companies and land registries.

After thorough research and analysis, Service Nova Scotia Minister Mark Furey announced today, April 18, that government will develop and implement a plan to modernize the registries, and in turn, enhance service to citizens.

This was the first full review of the registries to determine how they could be modernized and deliver better service to Nova Scotians.

“When we compared a private-sector led option to a government-led approach it was determined the financial benefits were marginal and too many uncertainties remained. This outcome does not serve the best interests of Nova Scotians,” said Mark Furey, Minister of Service Nova Scotia. “Nova Scotians have told us that Service Nova Scotia is doing a good job serving them, but we can do better.

“We know we are not meeting the recommended national benchmark developed by the Institute for Citizen Central Services. Our goal is to make services more convenient, and efficient for Nova Scotians”.

The criteria used to assess alternative service delivery and the government-led approach included economic benefits, risks, employee considerations, and the best way to achieve results. Research included a jurisdictional review, and an assessment of the qualifications and interest of appropriate partners.

New IT systems are required to support the registries. The system supporting the Registry of Joint Stock Companies is 20 years old. The procurement process is expected to begin in the next eight to 12 weeks to replace it. A plan will also be developed to replace or update the IT systems supporting the land and motor vehicles registries.

The motor vehicles, companies and land registries conduct about 2.5 million transactions per year and bring in about $150 million annually in revenue.

Source: Release