Today, more than ever, strong coordination is required amongst the various levels of government. Intergovernmental cooperation is necessary to ensure success in meeting citizen needs, and providing effective and efficient public service.

Each level of government has a different mandate for the types of services they are responsible for, along with various methods of providing services to their citizens. Understanding the authority and responsibility of each level of government is key to understanding how to develop relationships between the various levels of government. Maximizing the benefits of the different responsibility areas, and coordinating the activities of each level, further enhances overall service to the public.

Municipal governments are the closest point of intersection to the community and its citizens. In Nova Scotia, the municipal mandate, roles and responsibilities are set out in the HRM Charter. The growing significance of municipal governments in an urbanized country is now being recognized. HRM needs to capitalize on this opportunity and work with our government (and non-government) partners to further common objectives.

In undertaking government relations and partnership development, HRM is committed to:

- focussing on priorities
- setting clear goals that address public good
- collaboration
- creating solutions
- providing credible, reliable, factual information

This office also consists of an African Nova Scotian Affairs Intergration Office which provides leadership, strategic direction, policy advice and expertise to all parts of the organization to strengthen the delivery of municipal services to residents and communities of African descent within HRM.  For more information, click here.

If you would like more information, please contact:

Chris Bryant
Acting Managing Director

Government Relations & External Affairs
Halifax Regional Municipality
(902) 490-3677

Marion Currie, MA

Government Relations & External Affairs

(902) 490-6422