Procurement reform - Nova Scotia, Canada

New Public Procurement Act Introduced

The Public Procurement Act, introduced by Percy Paris, Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism, is part of the Provincial Government Procurement Initiative and a jobsHere commitment.

“We estimate that public sector entities procured more than $2-billion last year,” said Mr. Paris. “It’s our job to ensure this money is being spent wisely and all public sector entities are working together to be more efficient.”

The act will allow for the development of a new procurement governance structure, including a chief procurement officer for the province. A Procurement Advisory Group of public procurement professionals throughout the province will be created to identify efficiencies, share best practices, and implement greater standardization.

The act also mandates supplier debriefing sessions, a common vendor complaint process, a code of ethics for all public procurement professionals and posting tender notices, winning bidder and award amounts online.

The act will replace the Government Purchases Act, which no longer fits government’s procurement objectives.