Disclosure of Wrongdoing 2005-06 Annual Report

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The provincial government's second annual report on disclosure of wrongdoing was tabled in the legislature today, Nov. 23.

The report, which covers April 1, 2005, and March 31, 2006, was tabled by Human Resources Minister, Ernest Fage.

"The province has regulations and policy in place that enable employees to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisal," said Mr. Fage. "These mechanisms, and an annual report to the public, are important parts of accountable government and building confidence among Nova Scotians."

Nova Scotia implemented umbrella disclosure regulations and policy in September 2004. The regulations are not meant to supercede other protections for employees, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

In the time frame covered by the report, there were no disclosures reported.

The Public Service Commission met with government agencies to share information and created a website and resources for employees and managers. The Office of the Ombudsman developed an information package for government employees and established a wrongdoing inquiry line (1-877-670-1100).

A copy of the annual report can be accessed on the Public Service Commission's website at www.gov.ns.ca/psc .

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FOR BROADCAST USE:

     The second annual report on disclosure of wrongdoing was

tabled in the legislature today (November 23rd). It covers the

2005-2006 fiscal year.

     Human Resource Minister Ernest Fage says having ways

for government employees to report wrongdoing is an important

part of accountable government.

     The regulations and policy are two years old and were

designed to provide government employees with clear direction on

how to report wrongdoing, as well as protections against reprisal

action.

     In the time frame covered by the report, there were no

disclosures reported. A copy of the report can be found on the

Public Service Commission's website.

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Media Contact: Michelle Lucas
              Public Service Commission
              902-424-7280
              E-mail: lucasmx@gov.ns.ca