Department of Intergovernmental Affairs Annual Accountability Report Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Table of Contents

Accountability Statement ...... 1

Message from the Minister and Deputy Minister ...... ~

Financial Results ...... 1.

Measuring Our Results ...... §.

Overall Performance ...... §.

1. Government of Canada Relations ...... §.

2. Provincialfferritorial (Pff) Relations ...... z

3. Council of the Federation (CoF)/National Aboriginal Organizations- 2012 ...... ~

4. International Trade, Commerce and Relationships ...... 10

5. Protocol ...... ~

6. Government House ...... 16

Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act ...... 19 Accountability Statement

The Accountability Report for the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs for the year ended March 31, 2013 is prepared pursuant to the Finance Act and government policies and guidelines. These authorities require the reporting of outcomes against the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs Statement of Mandate for the fiscal year 2012- 2013. The reporting of the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs outcomes necessarily includes estimates, judgments and opinions by the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs management.

We acknowledge that this accountability report is the responsibility of the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs management. The report is, to the extent possible, a complete and accurate representation of outcomes relative to the goals and priorities set out in the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs 2012-2013 Statement of Mandate.

The Honourable Darrell Dexter Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs

Catherine Blewett Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 1 of21 Message from the Minister and Deputy Minister

We are pleased to present the Accountability Report for the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs (IGA) which outlines the department's progress and achievements for the 2012-13 fiscal year. IGA has a mandate to coordinate and advance Nova Scotia's interests with the Government of Canada, other provinces, and foreign governments at national and sub­ national levels. It also serves as a central point of contact for the coordination of the province's strategic intergovernmental priorities and protocol requirements. IGA facilitates and promotes a coordinated approach within the Government on international matters, and is also responsible for the operation of a Protocol Office and Government House. In 2012-2013, IGA met its objectives and has advanced Nova Scotia's intergovernmental priorities across the country and internationally through meetings, events, and engagement activities. Progress and achievements are noted on a number of corporate public policy matters, particularly in the areas of trade, regional cooperation, energy and health. In July 2012, Nova Scotia took on a national leadership role as chair of the Council of the Federation (CoF). CoF met twice in 2012-2013 (July 26-27 and November 22-23) in Nova Scotia. At these meetings, Canada's premiers were focused on working together to grow Canada's economy, with a particular emphasis on joint interests in the areas of labour market, employment insurance, immigration, health care, energy, infrastructure and trade and investment. Prior to the July meeting of CoF, IGA facilitated and led a meeting of premiers and Leaders of National Aboriginal Organizations held in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia to discuss issues of mutual importance, specifically in the areas of education, economic development, housing, disaster mitigation and violence against Aboriginal women and girls. In September 2012, Nova Scotia led a delegation of Canadian premiers and business leaders on a successful trade mission to China which positioned Canada's premiers well to advance our collective and unique trade and investment priorities with our partners and emerging economies. In addition to this mission, IGA commenced preparations for Nova Scotia to be represented at an Atlantic mission to Brazil in 2013-2014. During Nova Scotia's tenure as CoF chair, premiers announced a coordinated approach to price setting for six widely-used generic drugs. This initiative could produce savings of up to $100 million for provincial and territorial drug plans, including approximate savings of $7 million for Nova Scotia. IGA engaged with Atlantic counterparts in the planning and coordination of the Council of Atlantic Premiers meeting at Brudenell, PEl, (June 6, 2012). At this meeting the Premier led and advanced the Atlantic Workforce Partnership initiative which aims to address concerns over federal Employment Insurance changes. The Premier also participated in important discussions regarding federal service reductions in Atlantic

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 2 of21 Canada; federal transfer funding agreement renewal; benefiting from more joint procurement initiatives; and pursuing the development of new, clean and renewable electricity resources. At the end of July 2012, Nova Scotia attended the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian premiers' conference in Burlington, Vermont. The conference theme was Energy and Transportation: Opportunities for Economic Growth, and resulted in resolutions to accelerate the development of renewable energies, support the development of emerging transportation technologies, and lead nationally and internationally on climate change initiatives. Through its participation in the May 2012 conference of the Southeastern United States and Canadian Provinces Alliance, the Nova Scotia delegation strengthened relationships with key international leaders. In addition to the meeting, the associated trade mission had a robust Business Delegation program that matched over 250 delegates from across the 13 Alliance jurisdictions in a business-to-business matchmaking program. The Protocol Office, in conjunction with Government House, delivered a host of events throughout 2012 commemorating Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the ll's Diamond Jubilee, and installed Brigadier-General John James Grant as Nova Scotia's 32nd Lieutenant Governor since Confederation. By all accounts 2012-2013 was a productive year for Intergovernmental Affairs in Nova Scotia. In 2013-2014 it is expected that IGA will leverage its previous successes and continue to effectively represent Nova Scotia's interests in the Province's intergovernmental dealings.

The Honourable Darrell Dexter Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs

Catherine Blewett Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 3 of 21 Financial Results

INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS I

2012-2013 2012-2013

Estimate Actual

Program and Service Area ($'thousands) ($'thousands) Intergovernmental Affairs -Admin $2,918 $2,293 Government House $852 $762

Ottawa Office $224 $103

Protocol Office $685 $649

Total Program Expenses $4,679 $3,809*

Provincial Funded Staff (FTEs) 30.71 27.44**

*The difference between the Estimate and the Actual is $878,000. This is primarily due to the CoF Secretariat directly procuring a majority of the necessary items and services for which IGA had budgeted relating to the 2012 CoF Summer Meeting and CoF China Mission. In addition, Intergovernmental Affairs realized $127,000 savings during the Ottawa Office closure process. This savings and others helped Intergovernmental Affairs achieve its budget reduction targets. Moreover, with careful planning it has been able to reduce costs while continuing to maintain the same level of advice and support that it was previously providing.

** The Executive Director position remained vacant for seven months during the hiring process. A few other positions remained vacant for a number of months due to timing of competitive process.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 4 of21 Measuring Our Results

Intergovernmental Affairs (IGA) works to anticipate, identify, and advance government's strategic priorities and provide a corporate understanding of opportunities and challenges in an intergovernmental context.

IGA will continue to work with the Premier's Office and other departments and agencies to develop priorities and reinforce a strong understanding of corporate positions and priorities relative to intergovernmental issues and negotiations.

In 2012-2013 IGA reviewed its measurement system with a view to better assessing the department's performance. Due to the nature of IGA work, its performance is most effectively measured through qualitative information gathering. For this reason IGA engaged a third party to conduct focus group sessions with representatives of IGA client departments. This group and the Premier's Office constitute the major stakeholders for IGA.

The results, along with other available measures, are summarized below to address each of IGA's six core business areas, specifically:

1. Government of Canada Relations, 2. Provincial/Territorial Relations, 3. Council of the Federation/National Aboriginal Organizations, 4. International Trade, Commerce and Relationships, 5. Protocol, and 6. Government House

In 2013-2014 IGA will work to further refine its outcome measures and produce new base-line data.

Overall Performance

The focus groups were asked to provide an overall assessment of their satisfaction with the services and interaction they have had with IGA in 2012-2013. All departmental representatives expressed that they were satisfied and most of them stated that they were very satisfied. Some of their supporting comments included:

• "They provide quality advice and typically go the extra mile." • "Always professional and responsive." • "Very plugged into the national scene and willing to listen." • "I know the people there and I can call anytime and I get really great service."

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 5 of 21 There were a few areas identified for IGA improvement, including a desire for client department representatives to attend meetings; consistent communication of outcomes back to departments; and client department's knowing when to engage IGA staff and specifically with whom. These issues will be addressed in 2013-2014.

1. Government of Canada Relations

IGA's 2012-2013 Statement of Mandate defined three outcomes regarding relations with the government of Canada:

A. IGA works to create Nova Scotia's positions, strategies and opportunities on federal policy issues and developments for its decision makers. B. It advances constructive dialogue with the federal government on key Federal-Provincial priorities. C. It positively influences Government of Canada policy and decision making.

As a province within the federation, IGA recognizes the importance of maintaining effective relations with the government of Canada and the importance of understanding and managing its constitutional and fiscal relationship with them.

A. Create Nova Scotia's positions, strategies and opportunities on federal policy In 2012-2013 IGA achieved its outcome to create positions, strategy and issue on federal policy issues and developments through its efforts to coordinate and identify Nova Scotia's strategic intergovernmental interests, positions and opportunities, and to develop its approaches to communicating and positively influencing federal relations and outcomes.

Some of the more notable areas of IGA activity and achievement include:

• Supported the premier in bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister by working with departments to develop advice on federal-provincial priority areas of interest. • As Chair of CoF, raised issues on behalf of all of Canada's 13 premiers with the Prime Minister. • Ensured that shipbuilding was on the agenda for every meeting with the Prime Minister. • Provided advice to the Premier's Office concerning Federal Employment Insurance changes.

B. Advance constructive dialogue with the federal government Through these activities IGA was effective in advancing constructive dialogue with the federal government on key Federal-Provincial priorities. This is reflected in the comments from the focus group sessions with department representatives as they credit IGAwith:

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 6 of 21 • providing "advise and support for the Premier"; • "advancing the priorities of government"; • being "coordinators"; and having "the big picture".

C. Positively influence Government of Canada policy and decision making The outcome of influencing outcomes resulting from Federal-Provincial or Premier­ Federal communications and engagements is always difficult to assess. IGA often shares in the accomplishments of other departments that contribute significantly to the work of IGA. The development of positive relationships and the resolution of federal­ provincial issues or negotiations are often many years in the making. Moreover, given the many actors involved and the time frame that IGA works under, the outcomes and achievements are most often shared with the many. Furthermore, in many cases IGA provided direct support to other departments with sound advice and intergovernmental­ relations expertise for their federal-provincial meetings and negotiation preparations.

Working with line departments, IGA has been effective in providing evidence-based advice in support of influencing federal government policy. In 2012-2013 notable progress was made in the following areas:

• Exploring options to revitalize the Yarmouth-Bar Harbour Ferry service • Organizing and providing advice for a pan-Canadian international trade and commerce mission to China which opened doors for Nova Scotia to do more business in this important emerging economy • Providing analyses and advice on a myriad of important issues, for example Federal Senate reform, marine protected areas, federal employment insurance, labour market agreements and federal labour-related legislation. • Advancing Nova Scotia's interests in securing long-term, sustainable electricity from Muskrat Falls

2. Provincial/Territorial (PIT) Relations

IGA's 2012-2013 Statement of Mandate defined three outcomes relating to IGA's relations with provincial and territorial governments. These included:

A. Providing analysis and quality advice on PIT interests and positions impacting Nova Scotia B. Identifying and implementing strategic collaboration on federal/provincial/territorial programs and services to Nova Scotians C. Demonstrating regional leadership and serving as a spokesperson for the Atlantic Provinces.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 7 of 21 A. Provide analysis and quality advice on Provincial/Territorial interests and positions One of the many outcomes that IGA realized was to provide analyses and advice regarding other Pff actions and interests. This was achieved through participation in multi-lateral forums, bilateral discussions, media analyses, and monitoring/analyses of pertinent think tank and academic reports. All IGA staff are engaged in this day-to-day endeavor, and this supports all three Pff relations outcomes. This function assists in the development of reliable advice through a greater understanding of the interests of other governments. It also provides IGA with an opportunity to develop support among PITs for its issues; to define and collaborate on areas of mutual interest; and to share learning's among provinces.

These outcomes are often interrelated as the success of IGA's research, analysis and advice often leads to the outcome of identifying and implementing strategic collaboration, and to the outcome of demonstrating regional leadership.

B. Identify and implement strategic collaboration The outcome to identify and implement strategic collaboration is demonstrated by the four Atlantic provinces coming together to establish an Atlantic Workforce Partnership. This partnership is mandated to develop strategies and enhance the region's labour force through improved use and skills development.

It is also demonstrated in the development of an agreement on a generic drug initiative with premiers for a price setting approach that will realize savings of up to $1 00 million across Canada. This was a collaborative effort agreed through CoF, and advanced by the Department of Health and Wellness.

Other joint-priorities discussed included the federal shipbuilding contract, Lower Churchill project, the renewal of federal transfers, reductions in federal services, and emerging regional issues and opportunities for regional co-operation.

C. Demonstrate regional leadership and serve as a spokesperson The outcome to demonstrate leadership and serve as spokesperson for the Atlantic Provinces was supported with the help of IGA's positive relationship with PITs, and through regular interactions with intergovernmental bodies such as with the Council of the Federation, Council of Atlantic Premiers, New England Governors-Eastern Canadian Premiers meetings and through pan-Canadian trade missions abroad. These meetings also contributed to collaborations and the strategic development of joint interests.

IGA engaged with Atlantic counterparts in the planning and coordination of the Council of Atlantic Premiers meeting at Brudenell, PEl, (June 6, 2012). The Premier led key elements of the meeting including scoping of the Atlantic Workforce Partnership, and in this capacity IGA provided him with effective policy advice in advance of, and during the meeting.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 8 of 21 3. Council of the Federation/National Aboriginal Organizations, 2012-13

IGA's 2012-2013 Statement of Mandate defined three areas of focus relating to IGA's Council of the Federation (Co F) and National Aboriginal Organizations engagements in 2012-2013. These included:

A. Leading and serving as spokesperson for Canada's provinces and territories during the period as CoF Chair (2012/13) B. Ensuring successful Summer and Fall Meetings (including determining and exploring opportunities for the Premier as the CoF chairperson) C. Ensuring a successful premiers meeting with Canada's five National Aboriginal Leaders.

A. Lead and serve as spokesperson for the CoF In 2012-2013, IGA achieved its outcome in preparing the Premier to lead and serve as spokesperson for the CoF. The CoF met twice in 2012-2013 (July 26-27 and November 22-23) in Nova Scotia. At the summer meeting, premiers were focused on working together to grow Canada's economy, with a particular emphasis on joint interests in the areas of labour market, employment insurance, immigration, energy, infrastructure and trade and investment.

During Nova Scotia's tenure as chair, CoF advanced priorities through three Premier­ led working groups in the areas of Health Care Innovation, Energy, and Fiscal Arrangements. During Nova Scotia's tenure as chair, key working group milestones were reached, including:

• Release of the report of the Council of the Federation Working Group on Health Care Innovation, From Innovation to Action, which focused on practical innovations that each province and territory can put to use to enhance patient care and improve value for taxpayers. The recommendations in this report received extensive endorsement from a wide-range of health sector stakeholders across Canada. • Announcement of a coordinated approach to price setting for six widely-used generic drugs. • Agreement to pursue strategic, forward thinking approach for sustainable energy development through a renewed Canadian Energy Strategy. • Release of the report of the Fiscal Arrangements Working Group, which assessed the impact of the federal government's changes to major transfers to provinces and territories.

In September 2012, Nova Scotia led a delegation of Canadian premiers and business leaders on a successful trade mission to China. This mission positioned Canada's premiers well for advancing unique trade and investment priorities with our partners and emerging economies.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 9 of21 Building on the outcomes from the July CoF meeting, Nova Scotia hosted premiers again in November 2012 for the CoF International Economic Forum. IGA secured Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of Canada, and Tyler Cowen, Professor of Economics at George Mason University to engage with Premiers on the state of the global economy, and on critical factors to ensure continued job growth and future economic prosperity.

B. Ensuring successful Summer and Fall Meetings IGA was successful in achieving the outcome of ensuring successful Summer and Fall Meetings. In preparation for these meetings IGA helped identify and advance Nova Scotia's interests and priorities; coordinated departmental inputs around agenda issues and topics of interest; and launched the CoF strategic communications agenda. The meeting generated positive national media coverage and also resulted in 480 visitors and 1,500 visits to the IGA CoF website.

IGA managed effectively the logistical operations, briefings and advice needed in support the Premier and the events. The meetings were highly organized, conducted in a timely fashion without incident, and were delivered significantly under budget. Feedback received from participants and others was all positive.

C. Ensuring a successful premiers meeting with Aboriginal Leaders IGA's outcome to ensure a successful premiers meeting with Canada's five National Aboriginal Leaders was fully met through IGA's coordination and policy advice. Prior to the CoF meeting, premiers and Leaders of National Aboriginal Organizations met in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia and discussed issues of mutual importance, specifically in the areas of education, economic development, housing, disaster mitigation and violence against Aboriginal women and girls. This important meeting, along with all of the other CoF related successes was achieved with IGA coordination, logistical operations and policy advice.

5. International Trade, Commerce and Relations

IGA's 2012-2013 Statement of Mandate defined four outcomes relating to IGA's International Trade, Commerce and Relations. These included:

A. Promoting Nova Scotia trade with China and ensuring a successful CoF Mission to China B. Creating opportunities for Nova Scotia businesses through the establishment of strategic trade and investment partnerships in China C. Maximizing the Premier's engagement to advance Nova Scotia's International Commerce Strategy, business development programs, investment and trade D. Creating jobs and growing key sectors through enhanced US trade relations.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 10 of21 A. Promoting trade and ensuring a successful CoF Mission to China The outcome to promote Nova Scotia trade with China and ensure a successful CoF Mission to China was met as evidenced through a number of outcomes:

In September 2012, Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter, as Chair of the Council of the Federation lead a mission to China including stops in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong, and represented Provinces!Territories at the World Economic Forum in Tianjin. China is the world's second largest economy and represents a fast growing segment of Canada's global trading market. Working together to expand trade and further develop relations with China was an important priority of Canada's premiers.

Premier Dexter was joined by 30 officials from Nova Scotia representing government, business and academic institutions. The mission resulted in secured trade and investment opportunities in key sectors of importance to Nova Scotia and provided an opportunity to promote Nova Scotia's gateway and corridors, natural resources, educational excellence, ocean technology and ship-building sectors during meetings and events.

Nine of 13 jurisdictions (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Northwest Territories and Yukon) and a of delegation of 110 Canadian business and institutional leaders participated in the mission.

B. Creating opportunities for Nova Scotia businesses through strategic trade and investment partnerships in China The outcome to create opportunities for Nova Scotia businesses through the establishment of strategic trade and investment partnerships in China was achieved through several initiatives including an agreement between Nova Scotia and China's State Oceanic Administration (which oversees ocean technology research and development for the Chinese government to pursue co-operation in three areas: marine coastal management; marine disaster mitigation; and marine energy, including tidal energy.

During the CoF mission, Premier Dexter and Alberta Premier Alison Redford co-led a meeting with Li Fanrong, CEO of China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). Discussions focused on CNOOC's desire to continue investment in Canadian energy projects and the premiers addressed investment opportunities in their provinces and territories. Premier Dexter also discussed the recent $970-million Shell Canada exploration investment in Nova Scotia's offshore and other offshore opportunities.

Other business in China included the signing of a new trade agreement between Atlantic Canada Resources and Shenzhen LeTianTian Food Company ensuring the purchase of seafood from Nova Scotia.

Premier Dexter attended the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Cape Breton University and China Synfuels that will lead to an agreement to develop a

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 11 of21 Synfuels research and development laboratory at CBU's Verschuren Centre.

C. Maximizing the Premier's engagement to advance Nova Scotia's International Interests The outcome to maximize the Premier's engagement to advance Nova Scotia's International Commerce Strategy, business development programs, investment and trade has been achieved through a number of activities and initiatives. As a member of the Nova Scotia International Commerce Strategy Committee, IGA supports international activities within the province. Helping Nova Scotia businesses be more competitive globally is a priority of JobsHere; the plan to grow the Nova Scotia economy. Part of the JobsHere plan, is working to help Nova Scotia companies build their international capacity and strengthen the province's access to international markets and networks. IGA worked with line departments and key stakeholders in support of Nova Scotia business's international activities.

Over the past five years, internationally-traded sectors employed 39 percent of workers in Nova Scotia - an annual average of 175,000 jobs; Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) companies contributed to job creation and the economy; every year, about 850 Nova Scotia companies produce exports worth almost $15 billion; Nova Scotia imports almost $23 billion in goods and services.

D. Creating jobs and growing key sectors through US trade relations The outcome to maximize the creation ofjobs and grow key sectors through enhanced US trade relations is evidenced through IGA's actions in its organization and participation in a number of Canada premier-US governor led business forums.

Nova Scotia places tremendous value on its long-standing relationship with the United States and supports a collaborative approach to Canada-U.S. relations.

The Southeastern-United States Canadian Province (SEUS-CP) Alliance was established to promote trade and investment between member provinces and states. The goals of the Alliance are to present opportunities for businesses to enhance commercial exchanges, promote two-way investment, and encourage technological and scientific exchanges between and among the states and provinces.

In May 2012, Premier Dexter led a delegation of 17 Nova Scotia businesses to the 5th Annual SEUS-CP conference which welcomed over 250 Canadian and U.S. business and government leaders. This mission matched companies from across the 13 Alliance jurisdictions in a business-to-business matchmaking program. The event focused on a number of key areas: The economic business-outlook; partnerships in manufacturing; and Beyond the Border efficiencies in security. The forum provided the opportunity for Premier Dexter to strengthen and enhance trade partnerships between Nova Scotia and the southeastern United States; connect Nova Scotia companies to new markets and new investment opportunities; highlight key Nova Scotia economic development opportunities to south eastern US states' business and

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 12 of21 political leadership; and create new jobs by helping Nova Scotian companies expand and grow in an important market.

The New England Governors Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG-ECP) Forum encourages cooperation in five ways:

• developing networks and relationships; • taking collective action; • engaging in regional projects and endorsing projects by others; • undertaking research; and, • increasing public awareness of shared interests.

The New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers met on July 30, 2012, in Burlington, Vermont. The theme of the conference was "Energy and Transportation Opportunities for Economic Growth" and included discussions related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, clean vehicle technology, and cross-border trade. Premiers and governors adopted three (3) resolutions:

• Resolution 36-1 concerning Energy, directs the Northeast International Committee on Energy to facilitate achievement of environmental objectives and ensure long-term supply of energy; coordinate natural gas, transmission and infrastructure planning; and maximize cooperation in addressing issues of energy efficiency and conservation; • Resolution 36-2 concerning Transportation, directs state and provincial officials to explore options for advancing new vehicle technology and alternative transportation fuels and submit recommendations; review the 2008 NEG/ECP Transportation Air Quality Action Plan in light of new scientific knowledge and technological advances; and • Resolution 36-3 concerning Climate Change, directs environment and energy officials to update the 2001 NEG/ECP Climate Change Action Plan and identify an emissions reduction target for 2030; expand regional cooperation to increase public safety in light of increasing frequent extreme weather events and maximize the economic benefit available from green technology deployment.

6. Protocol

IGA's 2012-2013 Statement of Mandate defined six areas offocus relating to IGA's Protocol function. These included:

A. Promoting the interests of the Province to other governments and increasing the profile of the Province B. Profiling performers, local cuisine and historical venues to national and international visitors through official events C. Encouraging Nova Scotians to take pride in their Province and its people, and encouraging the pursuit of excellence

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 13 of21 D. Recognizing deserving Nova Scotians annually, including retiring civil servants E. Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II F. Promoting Nova Scotia artisans from communities across the province.

A. Promoting the interests of the Province to other governments and increasing the profile of the Province The outcome related to promoting the interests of the Province to other governments, and to increasing the profile of the Province, was achieved through the following activities:

• Nova Scotia received 5 official visits, coordinated by the Protocol Office. The annual target for 2012-2013 was to receive 25 official visits by diplomats, but the province could only accept 5 visits due to the Council of the Federation Summer Meeting. • One-hundred percent of Honorary Consuls that were contacted were engaged in their country's official visits. The annual target for 2012-2013 was 100 percent engagement by Members of the Honorary Consular Corps. This is also the ultimate target. • One-hundred percent of government departments that were contacted offered support and assistance in official visits. The annual target for 2012-2013 was 100% departmental support and assistance. This is also the ultimate target. • One-hundred percent of the Members of the Executive Council who were contacted were engaged in official visits. The annual target for 2012-2013 was 100 percent engagement by Members of the Executive Council. This is also the ultimate target. • The promotion of Nova Scotia's interests and global strategy with foreign governments through official visits results in increased opportunities for business, education and cultural exchanges.

B. Profiling performers, local cuisine and historical venues to national and international visitors through official events The outcome to profile performers, local cuisine and historical venues to national and international visitors through official events, is reflected in the following measures:

• One-hundred percent of performers profiled at official events were from Nova Scotia. • Ninety percent of the food and 100 percent of the wine served at official events was sourced locally. • Thirty percent of official events were held at historic venues.

C. Encouraging Nova Scotians to take pride in their Province and its people, and encouraging the pursuit of excellence The outcome to encourage Nova Scotians to take pride in their Province and its people, and encourage the pursuit of excellence was achieved.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 14 of21 The Order of Nova Scotia encourages Nova Scotians to take pride in their province and its people, and encourages the pursuit of excellence. Each year the Order of Nova Scotia profiles the outstanding achievements of five to six individual Nova Scotians on the national and international stage; building confidence in our communities, promoting excellence and contributing to the positive image of the province and its people.

In 2012, 84 nominations and re-nominations were received for the Order of Nova Scotia and five recipients were invested. The annual target for 2012 was 75 nominations and re-nominations received and five recipients invested, with an ultimate target of 65 nominations and re-nominations received and five recipients invested (six if a youth is selected).

D. Recognizing deserving Nova Scotians annually, including retiring civil servants The outcome to recognize deserving Nova Scotians annually, including retiring civil servants was accomplished largely through the Premier's Congratulatory Certificate Program.

In 2012-2013, 1,708 Nova Scotians were recognized (1,444 birthday/anniversary certificates and 264 retirement certificates). The annual target for 2012-2013 is to have 1,700 Nova Scotians recognized; this is also the ultimate target.

E. Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II The outcome to commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is reflected in the following measures:

• Sixty - $2,000 scholarships, celebrating each year of Her Majesty's reign, were awarded to Grade 12 students who had demonstrated leadership and service to community and province;

• The Speaker of the House of Assembly hosted the launch of the Diamond Jubilee on February 6, 2012. In addition, Province House hosted two public concerts dedicated to music from the coronation era. Province House also hosted an open house with music, exhibits, tours and a barbecue.

• An interactive educational on-line tool was created and introduced into the school curriculum. This educational tool (moodle) provided background information on the Diamond Jubilee, the role of The Queen in the Canadian government and the importance of active citizenship. Teachers used the moodle to access information on the Diamond Jubilee and a range of learning activities that supported outcomes aligned to governance and active citizenship. Teachers were also able to share ideas, resources, and the work of their students in relation to governance and active citizenship;

• A Diamond Jubilee website was created to give the celebration a dynamic

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 15 of21 presence on the IGA/Protocol Office website. The objectives of the website were to promote the Diamond Jubilee; promote Nova Scotia's role in the celebration; and link users with information and social media on the celebration;

• 200 Diamond Jubilee medals were presented by the Premier in communities across the province

F. Promoting Nova Scotia artisans from communities across the province The outcome to promoting Nova Scotia artisans from communities across the province was accomplished through the operation of the Government Gift Bank.

Through the Government Gift Bank, Nova Scotia artisans from diverse communities are profiled and their gift items promoted. The Gift Bank service is utilized by government officials for presentation of the gifts to dignitaries and diplomats, during trade missions or conferences, or as an award for a special service. The Gift Bank promotes Nova Scotia culture, expert craftsmanship, and enhances our culture and economy.

In 2012-2013, 75 artisans were profiled from communities across the Province. The annual target for 2012-2013 is 75 artisans profiled. This is also the ultimate target.

7. Government House

Measures for Government House's operational outcomes are in development, nonetheless, there are numerous outcomes that are described in this section that clearly support the accountability of this aspect of IGA business.

The outcomes relate specifically to supporting the five goals central to the mandate of the Lieutenant Governor:

A. Providing for the constitutionally defined and legal processes of the Province of Nova Scotia B. Supporting ceremonial functions that celebrate Nova Scotia accomplishments and its people C. Supporting communities in Nova Scotia through direct engagement D. Promoting Nova Scotia E. Preserving Government House, its traditions and history.

A. Providing for constitutionally defined and legal processes The outcomes relating to providing for the constitutionally defined and legal processes of the Province of Nova Scotia were defined through a series of achievements and initiatives:

The Lieutenant Governor granted Royal Assent to 70 Bills, presided over two Royal Assent ceremonies, two Speech from the Throne Ceremonies/Openings of the

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 16 of 21 Legislature. In addition to these duties, the Lieutenant Governor and Administrator signed 409 Orders-in-Council. The Lieutenant Governor also signed and had sealed 473 documents for the Department of Justice.

The Lieutenant Governor presided over two swearing in ceremonies of the Executive Council; one in May 2012 that was organized in conjunction with the Executive Council Office and Protocol Office; and the second in April2013, was organized by Government House in cooperation with the Executive Council Office.

The Office of the Lieutenant Governor oversaw the successful transition of Lieutenant Governors in April of 2012. The Private Secretary/Executive Director assisted the incumbent with a series of orientation meetings and briefings with various senior officials. Working under the direction of the Protocol Office a successful installation ceremony was held at Province House.

B. Supporting ceremonial functions that celebrate Nova Scotia accomplishments and its people The outcomes regarding supporting ceremonial functions that celebrate Nova Scotia accomplishments and its people are described below.

At Government House the Lieutenant Governor hosted 100 in-house events (e.g., investitures, ceremonies, and hospitality functions), not including over 7 investitures for various Canadian honours and 108 for the Order of Nova Scotia. These functions and others were successfully planned and delivered with, and in many instances with assistance from IGA's Protocol Office.

The Queen's Diamond Jubilee was recognized with 43 events and celebrations in 2012. They were associated with Government House hosting 18 Diamond Jubilee Medal investitures and receptions, and six private Diamond Jubilee Medal investitures. This resulted in 366 worthy Nova Scotians being recognized.

C. Supporting communities in Nova Scotia through direct engagement Some of the important outcomes regarding supporting communities through direct engagement are described below.

In addition to events held at Government House, the Lieutenant Governor presided over 7 Diamond Jubilee Investitures outside of the House where a further 265 individuals were recognized.

The Lieutenant Governor's Commemorative Certificate Programme which recognizes milestone birthdays, wedding anniversaries and military retirements resulted in 1,176 certificates being produced and mailed. This reflected a decrease of 6 percent over the previous year.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 17 of21 For the second year, Government House provided guided tours in the summer months, with 2,012 visitors representing all provinces and 27 different countries. This was an increase of 45 percent over the previous year (2011-2012).

The goal to support communities is also evidenced by the Lieutenant Governor making official visit to 21 communities over the course of the year.

D. Promoting Nova Scotia Some of the important outcomes that support the goal to promote Nova Scotia are provided below.

Aside from national and provincial honours, the Lieutenant Governor recognizes excellence in Nova Scotia in a diverse array of fields through 197 various Lieutenant Governor's Awards.

A policy of serving Nova Scotian produce, fish and meat (when seasonally available) was instituted at Government House in 2011 and continues to be in place. Since 2009 all wine served at Government House has been Nova Scotian in origin.

The Lieutenant Governor undertook twelve courtesy calls with Commonwealth and foreign representatives and hosted the Canada-France Joint Regional Cooperation Commission at Government House. At three Diamond Jubilee related receptions at Government House there were visitors from 64 different countries.

E. Preserving Government House, its traditions and history The outcomes regarding the historic preservation of Government House are described below.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal oversaw the complete replacement of the back steps of Government House and undertook routine maintenance and repairs to the building and Carriage House. The Government House Crown Collection saw two major pieces donated, and entered into the inventory of property and artifacts that are consistently maintained.

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 18 of21 Annual Report under Section 18 of the Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act

The Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act was proclaimed into law on December 20, 2011.

The Act provides for government employees to be able to come forward if they reasonably believe that a wrongdoing has been committed or is about to be committed and they are acting in good faith.

The Act also protects employees who do disclose from reprisals, by enabling them to lay a complaint of reprisal with the Labor Board.

A Wrongdoing for the purposes of the Act is:

a) a contravention of Provincial or Federal laws or regulations; b) a misuse or gross mismanagement of public funds or assets; c) an act or omission that creates an imminent risk of a substantial and specific danger to the life, health or safety of persons or the environment; or d) directing or counseling someone to commit a wrongdoing.

ln!or~~tion •. Fteq!Ji!$~iun~er Sectian~8of.·tbe Act The number of disclosures received 0

The number of findings of wrongdoing 0

N/A

N/A

Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 Page 19 of 21