In July, RNS leadership met with Minister Ritcey and senior staff to discuss key priorities impacting recreation and community wellbeing across Nova Scotia.
Representing RNS were President Brendon Smithson, President-Elect Laura Jacobs, and Executive Director Graham Mounsey. Our last meeting took place in early 2025 and so this provided an opportunity to provide updates on the key asks from 2025, as well as highlight opportunity and priorities affecting the recreation sector.
Recreation Leadership Development
RNS provided an update on the new Nova Scotia-grown Recreation Leadership Training program, developed with funding support from CCTH. With the training currently being piloted, we discussed the engagement process and the opportunity for a new provincial standard for recreation leaders in Nova Scotia.
Improving Community Use of Schools
RNS highlighted the work of multiple partners examining issues around community use of schools, identified as a key sector issue across the province. A working group is continuing to assist in moving forward to understand and address with focus of sector level benefit and collective impact with an open Community Use of Schools meeting on 15th September.
Recreation & Emergency Response
The meeting provided an opportunity to highlight the important role that our sector professionals, facilities, parks and outdoor spaces play during emergencies and in community recovery efforts. RNS discussed opportunities to strengthen connections between recreation and provincial emergency planning processes to support protection of and safe access to key community spaces during times of crisis.
National Framework for Recreation & Parks
RNS also highlighted Nova Scotia’s leadership role in the renewal of the National Framework for Recreation & Parks in Canada, expressing it’s commitment to supporting implementation efforts across the province.
We appreciate the Minister Ritcey’s time and willingness to engage in meaningful discussion about the future of recreation in Nova Scotia. RNS remains committed to being a collaborative partner and strong voice for recreation across the province.
Have an issue or opportunity we should be elevating?
We’d love to hear from you. The strongest sector conversations are grounded in the experiences of our members. Share the challenges, opportunities, and ideas that matter most in your community. Your input helps guide our work and strengthens our collective voice.
