Applications are now being accepted from Nova Scotians looking to help support their communities by serving on one of the province’s 160 agencies, boards and commissions.
The province’s spring recruitment campaign is now underway to let people know about the opportunities available.
“By serving on an agency, board or commission, Nova Scotians can make a real impact in their communities, and grow professionally and personally,” said Joanne Bernard, Minister of the Voluntary Sector.
“I want to thank and recognize the many Nova Scotians who volunteer their time to serve their communities and our province in these key roles. I encourage anyone who is interested to look at the positions available and apply.”
People of all communities, regions and walks of life are needed to serve on the agencies, boards and commissions.
“I think it’s really important to have diverse views on boards, to be able to share experiences when we’re sitting around the table,” said Holly Meuse, member, Council on Mi’kmaq Education and member of L’sitkuk First Nation (Bear River).
“If you’re feeling that your views, area or culture aren’t being represented, if you want to make change, you’ve got to get out there and make change.”
The positions offer opportunities for people to use their skills and knowledge, learn new ones and build relationships, while volunteering for their communities and province.
“I thought it would be really personally broadening,” said Peter Corey, acting chair of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board, who works and lives in Woods Harbour, Shelburne Co. “I like the idea of being involved in things outside my workplace but still relevant to my work. And I’ve really enjoyed the experience.”
Adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions deal with a variety of different matters and have quasi-judicial functions. They review evidence, make findings of fact and law, and make decisions that affect the liberty, security or legal rights of people. Examples include: Environment Assessment Review Panel, Labour Board, and Assistance Appeal Boards.
Non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions make decisions or recommendations to government on financial, regulatory, business or policy matters. Their work affects Nova Scotians in many important areas, including youth services, policing, and self-regulating professions.
Applicants are assessed on their skills and qualifications, taking into account the needs of the individual agency, board or commission.
Applications for non-adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions are welcome at any time, with assessment of applications beginning on May 16. The application deadline for adjudicative agencies, boards and commissions is May 24.
Applications will be considered for both current vacancies and positions that open up in the next two years. Most appointees are reimbursed for expenses and, in some cases, are nominally remunerated for their services as well.
For more information on boards, current opportunities and how to apply, visit http://novascotia.ca/abc . People can also contact 902-424-4877 or 1-866-206-6844.
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.
Source: Release