Nova Scotians who want to serve the public can now apply for the many available positions on the province’s 165 agencies, boards and commissions.

The province launched its fall recruitment campaign today, Nov.

12, to get more people to play an active role.

“It is truly commendable that so many Nova Scotians want to volunteer their time and expertise to help make government work at its best,” said Labi Kousoulis, Minister of the Voluntary Sector. “Agencies Boards and Commissions provide an important role for Nova Scotians who want to make a difference in their province.”

Adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions involve a variety of roles and interests and have quasi-judicial functions. They review evidence, make findings of fact and law, and make decisions affecting the liberty, security or legal rights of people. Members must apply legal, sound professional and technical principles for decisions. Examples include: Farm Practice Board; Review Board under the Criminal Code; Tuition Appeal Board.

Non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions make decisions or recommendations to government on financial, regulatory, business or policy matters.

Their work has far-reaching implications for Nova Scotians in many areas including youth services, health authority boards and licensing boards.

“I have served on many provincial boards and commissions over the past four decades because I truly believe that if we participate we can make a difference,” said Daniel Paul, Nova Scotia Police Review Board member.

“I would not hesitate to do it again because I’ve met many interesting people and received a first-hand education on how government functions.”

Applicants are assessed on skills and qualifications and the needs of the individual agency, board or commission.

Applications for non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions are welcome anytime, with assessment of applications to begin Dec. 9. The application deadline for adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions is Dec. 16.

“I was pleased to serve with the many board members who are from diverse areas of expertise and deal with complex engineering and strategic financial issues,” said William Mills, commissioner, Halifax-Dartmouth Bridge Commission.

“I enjoy being active in business and making a contribution to my community. The experience is both challenging and rewarding.”

Applications will be considered for both current vacancies and openings over the coming year. Due the wide variety of potential positions across government and timing of appointments, applications can take considerable time to process.

Applicants can contact the Executive Council Office at 902-424-4877 or toll free at 1-866-206-6844 for updates or if they have any questions about the process.

The province has an Employment Equity Policy and welcomes applications from Aboriginal people, African Nova Scotians and other racially visible people, persons with disabilities and women. People are encouraged to self-identify on applications, covering letters or resumes.

For more information on board position profiles, current opportunities and how to apply, visit www.gov.ns.ca/exec_council/abc/current-opportunities.asp .

Source: Release