Showing 31 results

Archival description
Series · 1991-1998
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of records created by the African Nova Scotian Business Ad-Hoc Committee and its preceding committees and initiatives: Nova Scotia Advisory Group on Race Relations and African Nova Scotian Business Forum. In the early 1990s the VPB determined it was time for collaboration on a more multicultural level to better represent the province’s population. The Advisory Group on Race Relations brought together three levels of government and members of the Black community to recommend a plan of action to eliminate racism and racial discrimination in the province. The African Nova Scotia Business Forum was initially convened to discuss matters of access to financing, though it was quickly determined that there were other areas of need and the forum broadened focus to creating a strategy for African Nova Scotia business development. The African Nova Scotian Business Ad-Hoc Committee was formed to continue the work begun at the Forum.

Records in this series include reports and recommendations, meeting minutes and agendas, correspondence, and community consultation materials.

Series · 1962-1993
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and contains records created by the Agriculture Sector Committee of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). This Sector Committee was formed to serve as a forum for farmers, producers, regulators and others from across the province with common concerns. Founded in 1963 as one of VPB's original sectors, members came from the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Federation of Agriculture, other related Provincial Government departments, Federal interests, agricultural associations and the larger agricultural community.

These records include correspondence, transcripts of speeches and presentations, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of the agricultural industry in Nova Scotia, touching on legislation, taxation, the stewardship of land and primary resources, education, and government policy in regards to various aspects of the industry.

Series · 1981-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board (VPB) fonds and consists of the records of the Community Development Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board. This committee was established in 1981 as a forum for community development groups and associations across the province, facilitating communications with government bodies and giving common voice to shared concerns and projects. When established, the Sector was known as the Voluntary Association for Community Development (VACD), adopting the name Community Development Sector in 1987.

These records include correspondence, transcripts of speeches and presentations, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of the community development industry in Nova Scotia, touching on government policy around community development, legislation, taxation, education and information-sharing, conference planning and participation, networking, and entrepreneurship. Records outline a number of the Committee's projects, in particular the Northumberland Institute, the Rural Opportunities Program, the Community Economic Development Encounter, and Community-Based Investment Funds.

The Community Economic Development Encounter was held in February 1989 and was an invite-only event to generate recommendations for community economic development programs, policy, and initiatives to be considered by the Ministers of Small Business Development and of Industry, Trade and Technology. The event was primarily a workshop, but also included info-sharing and presentations.

Between 1995 and 1997, the Sector facilitated a series of ‘Kitchen Meetings’ in communities throughout the province to generate an overview of issues impacting Nova Scotians. Series includes correspondence, background information and final reports from these meetings.

Series · 1975-2000
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Construction Sector committee of the Voluntary Planning Board. This committee was established in 1964 as a forum for the province’s construction industry, facilitating communications with government bodies and giving common voice to shared concerns and projects. The committee brought together members from labour, management, development and government organizations.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of the construction industry in Nova Scotia, particularly a province-wide strategy for the industry. Other key topics include legislation, conference planning and participation, job creation, infrastructure, safety, and resource-sharing.

Records outline a number of the Committee's projects, in particular the Construction Strategy 2000. Outlined in 1989, Construction Strategy 2000 was a plan to revitalize and sustain the construction industry in the province. It was a joint effort to address relevant issues and needs from all areas of the industry and province. The effort defined several goals and focus points to strengthen the industry by the year 2000 and moving forward. These goals included marketing and communications, training, technology transfer, government relations and labour relations.

The Construction Sector Committee had several offshoots, subcommittees and task forces, mostly established on an ad hoc basis. These included the Construction Industry Development Council of Nova Scotia (CIDCONS), Infrastructure Renewal Subcommittee, Occupational Health and Safety Subcommittee (responsible for Creating a Safer and Healthier Workplace, a 1992 conference and forum), Marketing and Communications Subcommittee, Education and Training Subcommittee.

Economic Strategy Committee
Series · 1989-1995
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of records created by the Economic Strategy (CORE) Committee. In June 1988, Voluntary Planning urged the Government of Nova Scotia to update and replace Building Competitiveness, the 1984 White Paper on Economic Development that had been serving as the Province's primary Economic Strategy document. Voluntary Planning was invited to take on this project. In March 1989 Voluntary Planning established a CORE Committee of volunteers to begin the process, which led to the November 1991 release of the Economic Strategy, Creating Our Own Future. The Strategy was publicly accepted by the Premier of Nova Scotia.

The Economic Strategy Committee was extensive, both in size and scope. The main committee focused on economic issues and strategy of provincial concern, while subcommittees and issue groups branched out to focus on specific areas, such as Human Resources, New Business, Technology, Trade and Competitiveness, Telecommunications, Prosperity Initiative, and Government’s Role. Records include meeting minutes and agendas, correspondence, community consultation materials, reports, and press and media coverage.

The Economic Strategy Committee coordinated input into the consultation paper 'Our Province Our Future Our Choice', as well as 'Will to Win - Encounter on the NS Economy' and other provincial economic initiatives.

Series · 1963-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series consists of records of the Energy Sector Committee of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). Previously known as the Power Sector and as the Energy Advisory Council, the name Energy Sector was adopted in 1976. The Sector was established to provide for the effective involvement of private sector representatives in the long-term planning of energy issues affecting the province. Made up of representatives from across the public and private sectors, the Sector identified issues and made recommendations to Government through the VPB.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers, final reports and other materials. The Sector focused on matters relating to the supply and consumption of energy across the Province of Nova Scotia in a wide variety of forms: coal, wood chips, oil, electricity, nuclear energy and tidal power. The records reflect this, as well as the Sector members’ emphasis on educating the public about different forms of energy resources, assisting private industry in navigating public policy and in strategizing the development of future energy resources.

Series · 1988-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series consists of records of the Environment and Economy Sector Committee of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). The Sector was established in 1988 promote the importance of the environment and how it related to the sustainable development of the economy of the province. Composed of members of environmental agencies, government representatives and private industry concerns, the Sector focused on public awareness programs, establishing recommendations to resolve environmental conflict, and reviewing incentives for individuals and groups to be more environmentally responsible.

Series includes correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers, final reports and other materials. Records outline a number of the Committee's projects, including sustainable development in coastal areas, pollution control, economic incentives, waste management, rural wastewater management, and private woodlots.

Fiscal Management Task Force
Series · 1999-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of records created by the Fiscal Management Task Force. In October 1999, Premier Hamm announced that Voluntary Planning would appoint a special, independent Fiscal Management Task Force to advise government on debt management and spending cuts. This Task Force released a preliminary report in December 1999 and a final report in January 2000. The reports generated a great deal of public interest and comment, which is documented here.

Records reflect the formation of the Task Force, and document the development and completion of the reports. Presentations, meeting minutes, media coverage, correspondence and public submissions are included.

Series · 1972-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Fisheries Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). One of the first Sectors established, Fisheries brought together inshore and offshore fishermen, processors, industry associations, unions and government officials, facilitating varied representation in the long-term conversation around the fisheries industry in Nova Scotia. The Sector played an important role in advising both provincial and federal governments on an assortment of projects and concerns.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of the fisheries industry in Nova Scotia as an entirety, touching on provincial fishing policy, fish processing plants in the province, quotas and allocations, Free Trade, problems with grey seals, aquaculture, pollution and environmental effects, safety and training for industry professionals, and the Fisheries Loan Board. The Sector also advised on offshore oil and gas development and on foreign investment.

Records also include some minutes of the Eastern Shore Fisherman's Protection Association, Coastal Communities Network, and VPB special meetings on the Fisheries Sector.

Series · 1969-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Forestry Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). One of the first Sectors established, Forestry brought together private sector associations, mills, consultants, councils, unions, and government departments (both federal and provincial). The Sector was initially established to draft a plan for the future of the industry and to advocate for the long-term commitment to extensive forest management and protection.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, position papers and responses, and other materials. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of the industry, sustainability, and forest management. Sector's submissions and responses to the Royal Commission on Forestry are included, as well as records on pest control (Spruce Budworm, Whitemarked Tussock Moth), policy development, the NS Forest Accord and Forest Action Plan.

Series includes some records of the Nova Scotia Forestry Association and the Maritime Lumber Bureau as well, as these organizations had similar goals and an established relationship with the Forestry Sector.

Series · 1987-1991
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Health Care Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). Also referred to as the Health Sector, it was established to address concerns around the rising costs of health care, decreasing health status indicators, and the lack of coordinated policy in provincial health care. Sector membership included health care providers, medical societies, care workers, educators, consumer organizations and representatives from hospital boards, public health, community clinics, and labour.

Records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, reports, and other materials. The records focus on the relationship between the public and private areas and the Sector’s contribution to the Royal Commission on Health Care.

Heritage Strategy Task Force
Series · 2005-2006
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of records created by the Heritage Strategy Task Force. The Task Force was recruited in Spring 2005, with a mandate from the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage in partnership with the Federation of Nova Scotia Heritage. Task Force members conducted community hall meetings, received written submissions, met with organizations and heritage specialists, conducted research and published an interim report, inviting comment on initial findings. Recommendations for a provincial heritage strategy were released in December 2006 as a report entitled ‘Our Heritage Future: A Shared Responsibility’.

Records reflect the formation of the Task Force, and document the development and completion of the reports. Presentations, meeting minutes, media coverage, correspondence and public submissions are included.

Series · 1975-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Human Resources Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). Formerly known as the Education Sector, the name Human Resources Sector was adopted in 1982 to more fully reflect the growing scope of the committee. The Sector was established to address education, training and employment opportunity issues, and to develop the human resource potential of the province to its highest potential. Membership was drawn from large and small businesses, academics and educators, unions, and representatives from federal and provincial government departments.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, final reports and concept papers, workshop materials, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is literacy, apprenticeship training, career options, automation in the workplace, community college system, and cooperative education. Records detail a number of the Sector’s projects, including the Atlantic Groundfish Strategy, Review of Vocational Education, and several papers on and reviews of the Community College system.

Series includes submissions and responses to the Royal Commission on Post-Secondary Education.

Labour Management Forum

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consist of the records of the Labour Management Forum. During the development of an economic strategy for Nova Scotia in 1992, ‘Labour Management Relations’ was identified as a critical issue. In March 1992, Voluntary Planning initiated the Labour Management Forum - modeled after the Labour Management Study Committee of the 1970s, but with a broadened mandate, and envisioned as an ongoing mechanism to promote greater partnerships in the workplace and in the economy.

In January 2002, administration of the Non-Binding Arbitration Panel Process was transferred from Voluntary Planning Board to the Department of Environment and Labour. The Labour Management Forum had designed and implemented the process in 1994 and proved its success with 143 applications to 2002. Employers and unions had an opportunity to meet with a panel, comprised of one labour and one management member who co-chaired the process and rendered a decision to assist the parties in mutually resolving a grievance.

Series is made up of correspondence, meeting materials, background and discussion items, and several reports.

Series · 1981-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Land Resources Coordinating Council (LRCC) of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). Briefly known as the Wildlife Resource Coordinating Committee, the LRCC was founded in 1979 as a response to concerns and tensions around land use and hunting activity. The Council provided a forum for landowners and recreational land users in the province to discuss joint issues, such as fire prevention, hunter safety and rights, conservation and development, trespass laws and the effects of litter and waste. LRCC taught respect for the land and cooperated with several government departments on the development of legislation and policy. The LRCC played a large part in the foundation of such organizations and initiatives as Clean Nova Scotia Foundation, Hunting and Fishing Guides of Nova Scotia, the Arson Prevention Council of Nova Scotia and the Land Registration and Information System.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. Records reflect the actions of the LRCC, as well as subcommittees on Arson Prevention, Trails and Liability, Abandoned Rail Lines, Conservation/Development, Occupiers’ Liability, the Sharing the Land Program, Pipelines, Hazardous Waste and Education. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of land use in the province and building relationships and understanding between land owners and land users. Records outline a number of the LRCC’s projects, in particular Sharing the Land Week, Waste Management Awards, Caretakers of the Environment initiative, a Review of Provincial Parks and Campgrounds, Silvilog, and the The Law, Landuse and the People workshop.

Series · 1963-1995
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Manufacturing Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). The Sector, also known as Secondary Manufacturing, was established in 1963 and was divided geographically into five 'segments': Annapolis Valley, Colchester/Cumberland/Pictou, South Shore, Cape Breton and Halifax Metro/Dartmouth. Membership and participation varied from segment to segment\, but always featured representatives from both public and private sectors.

Records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas for the Sector and segments, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is maintaining the growth of the manufacturing industry in Nova Scotia through consultations, recommendations and reports to government. The Sector had major input into the Green Paper and White Papers on economic development, aided in a review of the Workers' Compensation Board, and was involved in several studies on employment insurance. The Sector provided input into provincial legislation and programs and was concerned with taxation, training, and liability.

Series · 1964-1999
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Mineral Resources Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). The Sector, known as Mining until 1988, was established in 1964 and initially focused predominantly on coal with a strong Cape Breton representation. Its earliest initiatives focused on appealing to the federal government for assistance and support for the Cape Breton mining industry, which was under threat of shut down. Membership included representation from mineral commodity groups (producers), mineral exploration and processing interests, the Mining Society of Nova Scotia, labour, academics, and related government departments.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, submissions, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, final reports and other materials. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of the mining and mineral resource industry in Nova Scotia and the production of several reports and industry strategies. Records reflect Sector’s input into Nova Scotia's Energy Plan, uranium exploration in the province and related policies, organization of the Mineral Resources Forum, as well as the exploration permit process and approvals.

Series · 1997-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of records created by the Non-Resident Land Owners Task Force. On April 10, 2000, the Government of Nova Scotia introduced Bill 42, which included measures to enable municipalities to levy additional property taxes on non-resident property owners. This legislation received Royal Assent on June 8, 2000. However, the section dealing with non-resident land ownership was not enacted, as the issues were not as straightforward as originally envisioned. Cabinet then called upon Voluntary Planning to hold open discussions, conduct additional research, and provide recommendations on this topic. VPB's Task Force on Non-Resident Land Ownership in Nova Scotia assembled in March 2001 and released an Interim Report and Final Report later that year.

Records in this series include reports and recommendations, meeting minutes and agendas, correspondence, and community consultation materials.

Series · 2003-2005
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of records created by the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Task Force. In March 2003, the Province of Nova Scotia asked Voluntary Planning to help develop public policy related to off-highway vehicle use. A volunteer task force held community hall meetings, met with stakeholder organizations, invited written submissions and conducted extensive research on off-highway vehicle issues and best practices. In February 2004, the Task Force issued its interim report, entitled ‘Out of Control’. Reaction to the report led to another call for written submissions and further meetings with select stakeholders. A final report was issued in November 2004.

Records reflect the formation of the Task Force, and document the development and completion of the reports. Presentations, meeting minutes, media coverage, correspondence and public submissions are included.

Series · 1987-1990
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Professional Services Industry Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). The primary focus of this Sector was government’s contracting-out of professional services, the growth of the professional services industry, and its contribution to the province’s economy. The scope of the Professional Industry Sector touched many fields, including science, engineering, technology and information management, contributing to government policy and aiding in the implementation of the White Paper and Premier's Economic Conference (1985).

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, and other materials. The primary tasks reflected in the records is the making of recommendations relating to the contracting of professional services, procurement and taxation.

Series · 1981-1990
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Research and Development Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). The Sector began as a committee of the Board to examine issues in the growing fields of research and development. These fields, particularly technological innovation and adaptation, had become a focus of government and a means of diversifying and strengthening the economy. Membership was composed predominantly from the private sector, with a smaller representation from academia and government.

These records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, notices, meeting minutes and agendas, and discussion items. The main focus of the records is planning for the future of research and development in the province, highlighting such interests as super computers, the formation of the Council of Applied Science, government discussion papers on technology strategy, the Centres of Excellence Program, and the founding of the Nova Scotia Society for Academic and Industrial Liaison (SAIL).

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consist of records documenting the restructuring of the VPB Sector Committees. The Board of Directors met in October 2001 to begin planning for a newly restructured Voluntary Planning Organization, resulting in the introduction of a new Sector Committee structure. Cabinet approval was given in June 2002, establishing six Societal Sectors to act in an advisory capacity to the Voluntary Planning Board of Directors: Economic Growth and Competitiveness, Fiscal Management Policy, Environmental Quality and Stewardship, Health and Social Well-being, Education and Lifelong Learning, and Natural Resources.

Series is made up of records documenting the restructuring process, such as correspondence, member recruitment and member orientation, as well as records of the six new sectors.

Series · 1989-1991
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Small Business Development Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). The Sector was created in 1989 to provide a multidisciplinary and multi-sectoral approach to the strengthening of existing small businesses and the creation of new businesses in Nova Scotia in a sustainable context. The Sector served as an advisory group to the Minister of Small Business Development and a forum for small businesses to have input into development planning for the province.

Records in this series highlight the Sector’s purpose of providing advice to those government departments responsible for business development, as well as the generation of ideas, programs, and regulation directed at public and private sector business development.

Series · 1987-1991
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Special Committee on Free Trade Adjustment (SCFTA) of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). SCFTA was established in 1987 as a special committee of Voluntary Planning board members to identify risks, opportunities and recommendations regarding Free Trade and changes to the Act.

One of the principal achievements of SCFTA was preparing a questionnaire which was distributed it to all Sector Committees, with several objectives:

  1. To assess the availability and knowledge of the current Free Trade Agreement.
  2. To assess the current competitive position of Sector members within their industries.
  3. Identify ways for Nova Scotia to make full use of all opportunities and minimize negative impacts.

The majority of the records in the Series focus on this questionnaire.

Taxation Sector
Series · 1978-2001
Part of Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board

Series forms part of the Nova Scotia Voluntary Planning Board fonds and consists of the records of the Taxation Sector Committee of the Voluntary Planning Board (VPB). This Sector was established to represent a spectrum of interests in matters of taxation and government finance, to review all areas of taxation and investment, and to respond to tax-related problems identified by other sectors. Membership was composed of representatives from other Sectors, the Board of Trade, Canadian Manufacturers Association, lawyers, accountants, private company tax representatives and government.

Records include correspondence, background material for reports and papers, meeting minutes and agendas, discussion items, responses to position papers and other materials. The main focus of the records is on advising government, responding to concerns over changes to taxation, and how taxation influences business and the economy in Nova Scotia. The Sector raises questions on provincial budgeting, deficit, and federal and provincial sales tax reform, while participating in initiatives such as the Task Force on Investment and Taxation, Deed Transfer Tax, Tourism taxation problems and Manufacturing and Machinery Tax.