Nova Scotia - 2011 by Community Foundations of Canada

Taking the Pulse of our Province

2011

Introduction Nova Scotia’s Vital Signs® provides a portrait, in numbers, of Nova Scotia society. Drawing from several authoritative sources, these “vital signs” describe, in a national context, how Nova Scotians are doing in terms of income, demographics, health, security, learning, environment and overall life satisfaction, among other indicators. Why does it matter? It matters because a well-founded understanding of where we are is the first essential step in getting to where we want to be. It matters because an informed citizenry is a prerequisite for constructive community action. And it matters simply because these vital signs will spark our curiosity – why are we behind on this, or ahead on that? These questions will stimulate us to look behind the numbers: to understand the “whys” and not just the “whats.” With these province-wide vital signs as a roadmap, the next step is to zoom in on a particular county or community – turning up the resolution on the statistical microscope, as it were. In fact, the present provincial-level project was motivated by two earlier Vital Signs® studies led by Community Funds in Wolfville and Lunenburg County. These two communities discovered many surprising and important things about themselves. More importantly, both are now using what they learned to work collaboratively with others at the local level to effect positive social change. Over time, this can be repeated throughout the province. The “vital signs” you will find recorded here are just “numbers”. It is not the purpose of this document to analyze these data and to explain their causes and their significance. They are signs along the road. It is up to Nova Scotians to discover where they lead. Peter J. Nicholson, PhD, CM Allison Kouzovnikov, BA LLB MBA

Research Team

Research Support

Alexandra Connolly Katherine MacKenzie

Andrew Sharpe, Centre for the Study of Living Standards Malcolm Shookner, Nova Scotia Community Counts This report was made possible through the generous support of: The Nicholson Foundation The JSF Fund at the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia

Table of Contents Nova Scotia At A Glance ...............................…………………………………2 Shared Prosperity .............................................................................6 Safety ..............................................................................................13 Health and Wellness .......................................................................20 Learning ..........................................................................................31 Housing ……………………………………………………………………………………….37 Environment ....................................................................................39 Sense of Belonging...........................................................................41 Economy ..........................................................................................43

Nova Scotia at a Glance Geographic Boundaries of Nova Scotia by county.

Nova Scotia has eighteen counties as follows:                  

Annapolis Antigonish Cape Breton Colchester Cumberland Digby Guysborough Halifax Hants Inverness Kings Lunenburg Pictou Queens Richmond Shelburne Victoria Yarmouth

Did you know? Nova Scotia is the second most densely populated province in Canada.

Population Size and Growth On July 1, 2010, Nova Scotia had a population of 942,506, up 0.4% from 939,124 in 2009. The 2010 total represented 2.8% of Canada’s population (34,108,752). From 2001 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s population grew 0.1% on average annually, compared to 1.1% nationally. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-1-ii.pdf

1 2

Downloaded from http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/ (August 2011) See http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census06/data/popdwell/Table.cfm?T=101&SR=1&S=10&O=D (September 2011)

Migration and Components of Population In 2010, 30 more people died in Nova Scotia than were born, 3,207 people moved here from other countries and 205 people moved here from other provinces. Overall, Nova Scotia gained 3,382 people. From 2001 to 2010, 3,428 more people were born in Nova Scotia than died, 17,608 people moved here from other countries and 13,691 left the province to live elsewhere in Canada. Overall, Nova Scotia gained 7,345 people. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VI-1-c.pdf Proportion of Immigrants In 2006, the foreign-born population in Nova Scotia was 45,195 people, or 5.0% of the total population. Nova Scotia’s proportion was 74.7% below the national proportion of 19.8%. Nova Scotia’s foreign-born population grew 9.4% from 41,320 in 2001 to 45,195 in 2006. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-6.pdf Proportion of Immigrants by County (2006) Top three (by proportionate size)

Bottom three (by proportionate size)

1. Halifax (7.4%) 2. Annapolis (6.5%) 3. Lunenburg (4.5%)

1. Guysborough (1.7%) 2. Cape Breton (1.7%) 3. Richmond (2.5%)

Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp New Immigrants In 2006, the counties with the greatest proportion of immigrants who moved to that county in the previous five years were Halifax (2.3%), Antigonish (1.6%) and Kings and Annapolis (1.2%). The counties with the smallest proportion were Queens (0.2%), Shelburne (0.4%) and Cape Breton (0.4%). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Proportion of the Population Classified as a Visible Minority In 2006, the population of visible minorities in Nova Scotia was 37,685 people, or 4.2% of the total population. Nova Scotia’s proportion was 74.3% below the national proportion of 16.2%. From 2001 to 2006, the population of visible minorities in Nova Scotia grew 9.2% from 34,525 to 37,685. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-9.pdf French Spoken at Home by County (2006) Top three (by proportionate size)

Bottom three (by proportionate size)

1. Digby (29.5%) 2. Yarmouth (12.5%) 3. Richmond (11.8%)

1. Queens (0.0%) 2. Cumberland (0.1%) 3. Victoria (0.1%)

Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp

Total Aboriginal Identity “Aboriginal identity” refers to those who reported being First Nations (North American Indian), Métis or Inuit and/or those who reported Registered or Treaty Indian status that is registered under the Indian Act of Canada, and/or those who reported membership in a First Nation or Indian band. In 2006, the three counties with the greatest number of people with an aboriginal identity were Halifax (5,320), Cape Breton (4,670) and Yarmouth (2,970). The three counties with the lowest number of people with an aboriginal identity were Guysborough (115), Cumberland (280) and Victoria (450). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Proportion of Youth Under 15 Years of Age On July 1, 2010, 16.0% of Nova Scotia’s population was under 15 years of age, down 16.7% from 19.2% in 2001. Nova Scotia’s 2010 proportion was 9.6% below the national average of 17.7%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-2-ii.pdf Proportion of Elderly 65 Years of Age and Over On July 1, 2010, 16.0% of Nova Scotia’s population was over 65 years of age, up 16.8% from 13.7% in 2001. Nova Scotia’s 2010 proportion was 13.5% above the national average of 14.1%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-3-ii.pdf Median Age In 2006, at 41.8 years, the median age in Nova Scotia had increased by 3.0 years from 38.8 in 2001. Nova Scotia’s 2006 median age was 5.8% higher than the national level of 39.5 years. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-4.pdf Proportion of Single-parent Families In 2006, 16.9% of families in Nova Scotia were single-parent families. This proportion is 6.3% higher than the national proportion of 15.9%. Nova Scotia’s 2006 rate is 27.8% below its 2001 rate of 23.4%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-10.pdf Change in Population (Municipal level) Shows the changes in population over the past four years. It is calculated by dividing the difference between population estimates of the current year and four years ago by current year's estimated population. Continual decreases in population may indicate serious structural problems in the economy of the municipality. In 2010, the municipalities whose populations had grown the most over the previous four years were the Towns of Wolfville (+8.4%), Truro (+8.2%), Middleton (+7.1%) and the Halifax Regional Municipality (+5.5%). The municipalities whose populations had declined the most were the Towns of Annapolis Royal (-15.2%), Oxford (14.7%) and Lockeport (-13.1%). The average for all municipalities was -4.3%. Source: http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/indicators/public/AdHocSelection.asp 4

Population Distribution by County In 2006, 40.8% of Nova Scotians lived in Halifax, followed by 11.6% in Cape Breton and 6.6% in Kings. The total population of the five smallest counties by population size (Victoria, Guysborough, Richmond, Queens and Shelburne) comprised less than 6% of the provincial population. Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Age Distribution by County 0-4 years In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of children from birth to four years were Hants (5.3%), Antigonish (5.1%) and Halifax (4.9%). The three counties with the smallest proportion were Guysborough (3.3%), Lunenburg (3.7%) and Queens (3.9%). The average for all 18 counties was 4.3%. 5-19 years In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of children and teens ages 5 to 19 years were Antigonish (20.9%), Hants (20.1%) and Inverness (19.5%). The three counties with the smallest proportion were Guysborough (16.2%), Queens (16.3%) and Lunenburg (16.4%). The average for all 18 counties was 18.2% 65+ years In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of seniors aged 65 and older were Guysborough (21.5%), Annapolis (20.1%) and Cumberland (20.0%). The three counties with the smallest proportion were Halifax (12.0%), Hants (13.7%) and Antigonish (14.0%). The average for all 18 counties was 17.4%. Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp

Shared Prosperity Why it matters: When there is a large gap between the rich and poor in our community, we are all affected. A large gap can lead to social problems, like health disparities and crime. It can also diminish economic growth if it means that the province is not fully using the skills and capabilities of all its citizens. Canadians who experience low income may not have the resources to afford food, shelter, and other necessities or to ensure their financial security. In order to provide a complete picture of low income, Statistics Canada uses three complementary low income lines: the Low Income Cut-off (LICO), the Low Income Measure (LIM) and the Market Basket Measure (MBM). All three determine an income threshold necessary to meet the basic needs of an individual or family. However, as described below, LICOs and LIM measure low income in relation to the income of other individuals or families in society, 3 whereas the MBM measures low income in relation to the ability to acquire certain goods and services. The Low Income Measure (LIM) sets a low income threshold corresponding to 50% of the contemporary median adjusted family income (i.e., half of the population has a higher income than the median income and the other half has a lower income). The word “adjusted” indicates that household needs are taken into account. Adjustment for household sizes reflects the fact that a household’s needs increase as the number of members increases. For example, a household of six has greater needs than a household of two, although these needs are not necessarily three times as costly. The Low Income Cut Off (LICO) is an estimated threshold below which a family is likely to spend significantly more of its income on food, shelter and clothing than the average family. The rationale behind LICO is Engel’s law which states that a family’s relative expenditure on food tends to fall as its income rises. If a family spends a substantial proportion of its income on necessities such as food, shelter and clothing, then it would have little discretionary income left to spend on other items and would probably live under stressful circumstances. Finally, the Market Basket Measure (MBM) sets a low income threshold in relation to the cost of a basket of goods and services that are deemed essential to maintain physical health and to moderately participate in community activities. The price of this “basket” of goods and services takes regional differences in the cost of living into account. Under MBM, the disposable income is equal to total income (income from employment, investment, retirement pensions and all government transfers) subtracted by income taxes, CPP/QPP contribution, EI contribution, RPP contribution, union dues, child/spousal support payment, work-related child care expenses and out of pocket medical expenses prescribed by medical professionals. As described in the text which follows, each of these low income measures produce different results. Overall Poverty Rates Overall Poverty Snapshot Measure LICO, After-Tax LIM, After-Tax MBM, After-Tax

Nova Scotia (2009)

Canada (2009)

Nova Scotia’s Trend Since 2000

8.0% 16.9% 13.1%

9.6% 13.3% 10.6%

Rate has Decreased Rate has Increased Rate has Decreased

For more information, please see http://www4.hrsdc.gc.ca/gl.4ss.1ry@-eng.jsp?word=Measuring%20Low%20Income and Zhang, Xuelin (2010). Low Income Measurement in Canada: What Do Different Lines and Indexes Tell Us? Retrieved from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/75f0002m/75f0002m2010003-eng.pdf and also http://www.conferenceboard.ca/hcp/hottopics/caninequality.aspx (all accessed in August 2011)

Based on LICO, After-Tax In 2009, the overall poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the after-tax LICO, was 8.0%, down 31.0% from 11.6% in 2000, and down 3.6% from 8.3% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 16.7% lower than the national rate of 9.6%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-2-c-ii.pdf Based on LIM, After-Tax In 2009, the overall poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the after-tax LIM, was 16.9%, up 6.3% from 15.9% in 2000, and down 2.9% from 17.4% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 27.1% higher than the national rate of 13.3%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-2-c-iii.pdf Based on MBM, After-Tax, 2008 base In 2009, the overall poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the MBM, was 13.1%, down 7.7% from 14.2% in 2000, and up 4.8% from 12.5% in 2008. The 2009 rate in Nova Scotia was 23.6% higher than the national rate of 10.6%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-2-c-iv.pdf Child Poverty Rates Children are defined as persons less than 18 years of age. Child Poverty Snapshot Measure LICO, After-Tax LIM, After-Tax MBM, After-Tax

Nova Scotia (2009)

Canada (2009)

Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trend Since 2000

8.2% 20.1% 14.4%

9.5% 15.0% 11.6%

Rate has Decreased Rate has Increased Rate has Decreased

Based on LICO, After-Tax In 2009, the child poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the after-tax LICO, was 8.2%, down 34.9% from 12.6% in 2000, and up 3.8% from 7.9% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 13.7% lower than the national rate of 9.5%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-3-c-ii.pdf Based on LIM, After-Tax In 2009, the child poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the after-tax LIM, was 20.1%, up 6.3% from 18.9% in 2000, and down 0.5% from 20.2% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 34.0% higher than the national rate of 15.0%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-3-c-iii.pdf Based on MBM, After-Tax, 2008 base In 2009, the child poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the MBM, was 14.4%, down 14.8% from 16.9% in 2000, and up 5.1% from 13.7% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 24.1% higher than the national rate of 11.6%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-3-c-iv.pdf 7

Elderly Poverty Rates Elderly are defined as persons over 65 years of age. Elderly Poverty Snapshot Measure

Nova Scotia (2009)

Canada (2009)

Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trend Since 2000

3.4% 19.3% 8.7%

5.2% 11.5% 4.2%

Rate has Decreased Rate has Increased Rate has Increased

LICO, After-Tax LIM, After-Tax MBM, After-Tax Based on LICO, After-Tax

In 2009, the elderly poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the after-tax LICO, was 3.4%, down 40.4% from 5.7% in 2000, and equal to the rate in 2008. The 2009 rate was 34.6% lower than the national rate of 5.2%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-4-c-ii.pdf Based on LIM, After-Tax In 2009, the elderly poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the LIM, was 19.3%, up 13.5% from 17.0% in 2000, and down 3.0% from 19.9% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 67.8% higher than the national rate of 11.5%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-4-c-iii.pdf Based on MBM, After-Tax, 2008 base In 2009, the elderly poverty rate in Nova Scotia, based on the MBM, was 8.7%, up 8.7% from 8.0% in 2000, and up 27.9% from 6.8% in 2008. The 2009 rate was 107.0% higher than the national rate of 4.2%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/I-4-c-iv.pdf Household Food Security Status Food security refers to the financial ability of households to access adequate food and is strongly related to household income.4

In 2007, 8.7% of Nova Scotians reported being moderately or severely food insecure. This is 22.5% higher than the national level of 7.1%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VIII-12.pdf Did you know? There is growing evidence concerning the link between higher incomes, nutritional status and better health, showing that as family incomes increase so does the quantity and nutritional quality of the food 5 purchased. As income decreases, households are less likely to purchase fruits, vegetables and milk products.

For more information, please visit http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/surveill/nutrition/commun/income_food_sec-sec_alim-eng.php#lex (accessed August 2011) 5 Can Nova Scotians Afford to Eat Healthy? 2011 Report http://www.foodsecurityresearchcentre.ca/storage/docs/foodcosting/Food%20Final%202010_Food%20Final.pdf (accessed August 2011)

The Cost of a Basic Nutritious Diet in Nova Scotia Average Weekly Costs of the National Nutritious Food Basket in NS by Age and Gender (June 2010) Sex

Age (years)

Cost per Week ($)

Boy

2-3 4-8 9-13 14-18 19-30 31-50 51-70 71+ 2-3 4-8 9-13 14-18 19-30 31-50 51-70 71+

27 34 45 62 59 54 52 52 26 33 28 46 46 46 41 40

Man

Girl

Woman

Source: Can Nova Scotians Afford to Eat Healthy? (Released May 2011) http://www.foodsecurityresearchcentre.ca/storage/docs/food-costing/Food%20Final%202010_Food%20Final.pdf National Nutritious Food Basket Affordability in Nova Scotia: Urban vs. Rural Urban is defined as a community with a population greater than 10,000 people. Rural is defined as towns and 6 municipalities outside of the commuting zone of urban centres with a population of 10,000 people or less. In 2010, the average monthly cost of purchasing the National Nutritious Food Basket for the reference household of four in grocery stores located in rural Nova Scotia was $780, $26 (3.4%) more than the average for urban areas of $754. Source: Can Nova Scotians Afford to Eat Healthy? (Released May 2011) http://www.foodsecurityresearchcentre.ca/storage/docs/food-costing/Food%20Final%202010_Food%20Final.pdf National Nutritious Food Basket Affordability in Nova Scotia: Lone Mothers In 2010, a typical lone mother of three children who works for minimum wage or receives Income Assistance in Nova Scotia will have a monthly deficit of $448 and $392 respectively, if she purchases a nutritious diet after covering her basic monthly living expenses of shelter, utilities, telephone, transportation, clothing and footwear, childcare, personal care expenses, and household cleaning supplies. Source: Can Nova Scotians Afford to Eat Healthy? (Released May 2011) http://www.foodsecurityresearchcentre.ca/storage/docs/food-costing/Food%20Final%202010_Food%20Final.pdf

http://www.foodsecurityresearchcentre.ca/storage/docs/food-costing/Food%20Final%202010_Food%20Final.pdf

Food Bank Usage In March 2010, 22,573 people were assisted by food banks in Nova Scotia, up 11.0% from 20,344 in 2009. In addition to this, 134,940 meals are served each month at soup kitchens and meal programs throughout the province. Source: March 2010 and 2009 HungerCount surveys (http://www.feednovascotia.ca/hungerfacts_stats.html) Average Household Expenditures In 2009, the average household expenditure in Nova Scotia was $60,867, compared to $71,117 nationally. Consumption costs (costs related to food, shelter, transportation, clothing, etc.) totalled $44,634 (73.3%) of Nova Scotians total expenditures, followed by personal income taxes at $11,090 (18.2%), insurance and pension contributions at $3,681 (6.0%) and gifts/contributions at $1,462 (2.4%). Nationally, consumption costs totalled $50,734 (71.3%) of Canadians total expenditures, followed by personal income taxes at $14,399 (20.2%), insurance and pension contributions at $4,269 (6.0%) and gifts/contributions at $1,715 (2.4%). Source: Survey of Household Spending (http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/famil16b-eng.htm) Average and Median Incomes An average income is determined by selecting a group of people, adding up their incomes, then dividing this th number by the total number of people in the group. A median is also known as the 50 percentile. With respect to income, exactly the same number of people in the group make less than the median and exactly the same number make more. The median is the best measure to use when the distribution is skewed (e.g., when there are extreme highs or lows) as it will give a better idea of a general tendency in the data. When the population is symmetrical, the mean and the median will give almost identical results. The larger the difference between the mean and the median, the more outliers there are in the data, meaning there are some very high income earners and/or some very low income earners in the population. Average After-Tax Income for Economic Families (2009 constant dollars) An economic family is a group of individuals who live together and are related by blood, marriage (including common-law relationships) or adoption. A constant dollar is an adjusted value of currency used to compare dollar values from one period to another. Due to inflation, the purchasing power of the dollar changes over time, so in 7 order to compare dollar values from one year to another they need to be converted to constant dollar values. In 2009, the average after-tax income for economic families in Nova Scotia was $64,300, up 3.9% from $61,900 in 2008. The 2009 level was 13.9% lower than the national average of $74,700. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-7-c-ii.pdf

Median After-Tax Income for Economic Families (2009 constant dollars) In 2009, the median after-tax income for economic families in Nova Scotia was $55,100, up 3.6% from $53,200 in 2008. The 2009 level was 13.6% lower than the national level of $63,800. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-8-c-ii.pdf 7

For more information, visit http://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/constantdollar.asp#ixzz1XeNc2qkm (Accessed September 2011)

Average Before-Tax Income for Census Families A census family can be a married couple (with or without children of either or both spouses), a couple living common-law (with or without children of either or both partners), or a lone parent of any marital status, with at least one child living in the same dwelling. Average Before-Tax Income for Census Families by County (2006) Top three

Bottom three

1. Halifax ($78,184) 2. Antigonish ($69,504) 3. Inverness ($61,666)

1. Guysborough ($50,801) 2. Queens ($51,471) 3. Annapolis ($52,643)

From 1996 to 2006, all counties had an increase of at least 10.0% to their average before-tax family income. The three counties which had the greatest increase were Halifax (+45.4% from $53,766 to $78,184), Pictou (+43.7% from $42,799 to $61,500) and Cape Breton (+42.6% from $39,607 to $56,493). The three counties which had the smallest increase were Queens (+10.6% from $46,556 to $51,471), Shelburne (+24.0% from $43,578 to $54,017) and Digby (+37.1% from $38,496 to 52,780). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Median Before-Tax Income for Census Families Median Before-Tax Income for Census Families by County (2006) Top three

Bottom three

1. Halifax ($66,867) 2. Antigonish ($57,234) 3. Hants ($55,635)

1. Guysborough ($41,358) 2. Digby ($44,214) 3. Queens ($45,420)

From 1996 to 2006, all counties had an increase of at least 18.0% to their median before-tax family income. The three counties which had the greatest increase were Lunenburg (+41.0% from $35,875 to $50,584), Yarmouth (+40.7% from $35,550 to $50,019) and Victoria (+40.4% from $37,841 to $53,112). The three counties with the smallest increase were Shelburne (+18.4% from $39,112 to $46,296), Queens (+25.5% from $36,187 to $45,420) and Guysborough (+30.4% from $31,711 to $41,358). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp

Average and Median Before-Tax Incomes Male vs. Female Greatest Difference in Average Incomes between Males and Females, Top Three Counties (2006) County Shelburne Queens Pictou

Males

Females

Difference

$34,163 $33,687 $37,511

$19,009 $20,501 $22,935

$15,154 or 44.4% $13,186 or 39.1% $14,576 or 38.9%

Greatest Difference in Median Incomes between Males and Females, Top Three Counties (2006) County Shelburne Hants Queens

Males

Females

Difference

$29,358 $33,540 $28,308

$15,625 $18,180 $15,913

$13,733 or 46.8% $15,360 or 45.8% $12,395 or 43.8%

Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Seniors with a public pension income Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) In 2007, 98% of seniors in Nova Scotia received OAS, compared to 96% nationally, while 93% of seniors in Nova Scotia received CPP, compared to 90% nationally. Source: http://www4.hrsdc.gc.ca/.3ndic.1t.4r@-eng.jsp?iid=27

Safety Why it matters: A sense of security and safety affects our quality-of-life in Nova Scotia and our ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Personal safety determines how we socialize and participate in our communities. Geographic Boundaries of Nova Scotia by Justice Centre

Justice Centres correspond to areas with courts in Nova Scotia. They can contain more than one court, and are typically composed of several Justice Police Districts. Justice Centre boundaries are established by the Court Services Division of the provincial Department of Justice. Justice Police District boundaries correspond to existing boundaries for municipal police forces or to boundaries operationally defined by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for policing areas outside of the municipalities. Nova Scotia’s eleven Justice Centres are: Amherst Bridgewater Halifax New Glasgow Sydney Yarmouth

Antigonish Digby Kentville Port Hawksbury Truro

Police Officers per 10,000 People In 2010, at 20.3 police officers per 10,000 people, the number of police officers in Nova Scotia was the same as the national average (20.3). The rate was up 1.5% from 20.0 in 2009. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-4.pdf Overall Crime Severity Index Measures of crime severity presented below are based on Statistics Canada's Police-reported Crime Severity Index (PRCSI) which tracks changes in the severity of reported crime over time. While crime rates measure overall volume of crime, crime severity reflects the relative seriousness of the offences committed. To make the Index easier to interpret, the Index is standardized to “100” for Canada (a system that is similar to the Consumer Price Index), using 9 2006 as a base year.

8 9

Downloaded from http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/ (Accessed August 2011) For more information, see http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/85-004-x/85-004-x2009001-eng.pdf (Accessed September 2011)

In 2010, Nova Scotia’s Overall Crime Severity Index level was 83.5, or approximately the same as the national level (82.7). After peaking at 106.7 in 2004, Nova Scotia`s Overall Crime Severity Index has been consistently declining. Its 2010 level was its lowest since 1998 (105.2) and reflects a 20.8% drop since that time. This downward trend is consistent with the national trend which saw a 30.4% drop from 118.8 in 1998 to 82.7 in 2010. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-8-i.pdf Total Crime Rate (based on police-reported crimes per 10,000 people) Crime rates measure the volume of crime reported to police. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s total crime rate was 698.0 per 10,000 people, 13.6% above the national rate (614.5). Nova Scotia’s rate increased 1% from 2009, compared to a 5% decrease nationally. Source: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/85-002-x/2011001/article/11523/tbl/tbl02a-eng.htm Total Crime Rate (based on police-reported crimes per 10,000 people) by Justice Centre (2009) Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. 2. 3. 4.

1. Antigonish (493.0) 2. Bridgewater (493.4) 3. Port Hawkesbury (511.9)

Sydney (859.2) Truro (781.2) New Glasgow (754.7) Halifax (715.9)

The rate for the province was 693.2 crimes per 10,000 people. From 2005 to 2009, total police-reported crime per 10,000 people dropped in all Justice Centres, except Port Hawkesbury which had a 3.2% increase from 496.1 to 511.9. The three Justice Centres where total crime dropped the most were Halifax (-21.5% from 912.5 to 715.9), Bridgewater (-21.2% from 626.5 to 493.4) and Truro (-20.8% from 986.9 to 781.2). The Justice Centres where total crime dropped the least were Sydney (-0.7% from 865.6 to 859.2) and Digby (-2.4% from 540.9 to 528.0). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Violent Crime Severity Index The Violent Crime Severity Index reflects the relative seriousness of the offences committed. Violent crimes involve the application, or threat of application, of force to a person. The index was set at 100 in 2006. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s Violent Crime Severity Index value was 84.5, 4.9% below the national level (88.9). Nova Scotia’s level decreased 5.8% from 89.7 in 2009, and was approximately the same as its 1998 level (85.0). Nova Scotia’s Violent Crime Severity Index peaked in 2006 at 106.7 and has been declining ever since. This downward trend is consistent with what has been happening nationally. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-8-ii.pdf

Total Violent Crime Rate (based on police-reported violent crimes per 10,000 people) Violent crimes involve the application, or threat of application, of force to a person. Crime rates measure the volume of crime reported to police. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s violent crime rate was 156.4 per 10,000 people, 22.0% above the national rate (128.2). Nova Scotia’s rate decreased 5.5% from 165.6 in 2009 and was approximately the same as its 1998 level (155.2). Since 1998, Nova Scotia’s violent crime rate has consistently exceeded the national rate. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-1.pdf Total Violent Crime Rate (based on police-reported crimes per 10,000 people) by Justice Centre (2009) Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. Sydney (206.5) 2. Truro (178.8) 3. Yarmouth (173.5)

1. Bridgewater (124.2) 2. Antigonish (126.4) 3. Kentville (140.4)

The rate for the province was 165.4 violent crimes per 10,000 people. From 2005 to 2009, the three Justice Centres which had the greatest increase in violent crime rates were Digby (+22.8% from 128.0 to 157.2), Port Hawkesbury (+21.9% from 125.6 to 153.1) and Antigonish (+12.4% from 112.5 to 126.4). The three Justice Centres which had the greatest decrease were Amherst (-27.9% from 209.4 to 151.0), Halifax (-23.1% from 216.1 to 166.1) and Bridgewater (-18.9% from 153.2 to 124.2). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Non-Violent Crime Severity Index The Non-Violent Crime Severity Index reflects the relative seriousness of the offences committed. Non-violent crime includes both property offences and other non-violent Criminal Code offences. The index was set at 100 in 2006. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s Non-Violent Crime Severity Index level was 83.1, 3.5% above the national level (80.3). Nova Scotia’s level increased 1.7% from 81.7 in 2009, and was down 26.7% from its 1998 level (113.3). Since its high in 1998, Nova Scotia’s Non-Violent Crime Severity Index peaked in 2004 at 107.3, and has been declining ever since, with the exception of this most recent year reported. This downward trend is consistent with what has been happening nationally. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-8-iii.pdf Total Non-Violent Crime Rate (based on police-reported non-violent crimes per 10,000 people) Non-violent crimes include both property offences and other non-violent Criminal Code offences. Crime rates measure the volume of crime reported to police. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s non-violent crime rate was 541.6 per 10,000 people, 11.4% above the national rate (486.2). Within this rate, property crimes in Nova Scotia increased 4% from 2009, compared to a 6% decrease nationally, while other non-violent criminal code offences decreased by 2% in Nova Scotia, compared to no change nationally. Source: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/85-002-x/2011001/article/11523/tbl/tbl02a-eng.htm

Total Non-Violent Crime Rate (based on police-reported crimes per 10,000 people) by Justice Centre (2009) Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. Sydney (652.8) 2. Truro (602.4) 3. New Glasgow (582.3)

1. Port Hawkesbury (358.8) 2. Antigonish (366.6) 3. Bridgewater (369.1)

The rate for the province was 527.8 non-violent crimes per 10,000 people. From 2005 to 2009, non-violent crime rates dropped in all Justice Centres. The three Justice Centres where total non-violent crime dropped the most were Truro (-22.8% from 780.0 to 602.4), Bridgewater (-22.0% from 473.3 to 369.1) and Halifax (-21.2% from 696.4 to 549.8). The three Centres where total non-violent crime dropped the least were Sydney (-1.1% from 659.8 to 652.8), Port Hawkesbury (-3.2% from 370.6 to 358.8) and New Glasgow (5.9% from 618.9 to 582.3). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Property Crime Rate (based on police-reported crimes per 10,000 People) Property crimes involve acts with the intent of gaining property, but do not involve the use, or threat, of violence 10 against a person. Crime rates measure the volume of crime reported to police. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s property crime rate was 433.4 per 10,000 people, 12.7% above the national rate (384.6). It was down 19.7% from 540.1 in 1998. Since 2004, Nova Scotia’s property crime rate has exceeded the national rate each year, with the exception of 2008. Since 2008, Nova Scotia’s property crime rate has increased 4.1% from 4,162 to 4,334, while the national rate has decreased 9.5% from 4,249 to 3,846. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-2.pdf Total Police-reported Traffic Crimes per 10,000 People Involve traffic violations that cause death or bodily harm, or put people at risk of death or bodily harm, through behaviours such as impaired driving, dangerous driving, and stunting/drag racing. Crime rates measure the volume of crime reported to police. In 2010, at 43.5 per 10,000 people, the traffic crime rate in Nova Scotia was 6.0% above the national rate (41.0). Since 1998, 2010 was the first year in which Nova Scotia’s rate exceeded the national rate. Nova Scotia’s rate has been steadily increasing since 2007, while the national rate has been decreasing. Nova Scotia’s 2010 rate was up 21.5% from 35.8 in 1998, while nationally the rate was down 12.6% from 46.9 in 1998. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-3.pdf

For more information visit http://pe.communityaccounts.ca/table.asp?_=0bfAjIydpaWrnbSTh5FvJukxaGWicW2eVulypKtTr3Cmae7xZeWsp7UWQ__ (Accessed August 2011)

Total Police-reported Motor Vehicle Thefts per 10,000 People In 2010, at 13.6 per 10,000 people, the motor vehicle theft rate in Nova Scotia was 49.9% below the national rate (27.2). The rate decreased 2.7% from 14.0 in 2009. The rate was down 55.0% from 30.2 in 1998. This is consistent with what has been happening at a national level. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/II-6.pdf Cases in Adult Criminal Court In this section “stay” means the case was suspended either indefinitely or until the occurrence of a condition imposed by the court, while “acquittal” means that the accused was found not guilty. Crimes of Violence In 2009/10, of the 3,381 decisions handed down in Nova Scotia courts, 1,720 (50.9%) were stays, 1,516 (44.8%) were guilty verdicts and 131 (3.9%) were acquittals. Source: http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/legal19d-eng.htm Property Crimes In 2009/10, of the 2,913 decisions handed down in Nova Scotia courts, 1,743 (59.8%) were guilty verdicts and 1,116 (38.3%) were stays. Source: http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/legal19d-eng.htm Criminal Code Traffic Offences In 2009/10, of the 2,085 decisions handed down in Nova Scotia courts, 1,861 (89.3%) were guilty verdicts and 173 (8.3%) were stays. Source: http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/legal19d-eng.htm Youth Crime Total Youth Charged per 10,000 people by Justice Centre (2009) Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. New Glasgow (552) 2. Yarmouth (523) 3. Sydney (459)

1. Antigonish (168) 2. Port Hawkesbury (212) 3. Truro (247)

From 2005 to 2009, the three Justice Centres which had the greatest increase in the rate of youth charged were New Glasgow (+100.7% from 275 to 552), Yarmouth (+32.1% from 396 to 523) and Truro (+24.1% from 199 to 247). The three Centres which had the greatest decrease were Amherst (-30.6% from 575 to 399), Kentville (20.6% from 350 to 278) and Sydney (-2.1% from 469 to 459). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp

Total Youth Charged with a Violent Crime per 10,000 people by Justice Centre (2009) Involve the application, or threat of application, of force to a person. Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. Yarmouth (132) 2. Halifax (127) 3. Sydney (124)

1. Antigonish (26) 2. Port Hawkesbury (85) 3. Truro (89)

From 2005 to 2009, the Justice Centres which had the greatest increase in the rates of youth charged with a violent crime were Truro (+58.9% from 56 to 89), Digby (+47.2% from 72 to 106) and Bridgewater (+45.5% from 77 to 112). The Centres which had the greatest decrease were Antigonish (-67.5% from 80 to 26), Amherst (-31.9% from 144 to 98) and Halifax (-12.4% from 145 to 127). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Total Youth Charged with a Non-Violent Crime per 10,000 people by Justice Centre (2009) Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. New Glasgow (457) 2. Yarmouth (390) 3. Sydney (335)

1. Port Hawkesbury (128) 2. Antigonish (142) 3. Truro (159)

From 2005 to 2009, the three Justice Centres which had the greatest increase in the rates of youth charged with non-violent crimes were New Glasgow (+122.9% from 205 to 457), Antigonish (+67.1% from 85 to 142) and Yarmouth (+37.8% from 283 to 390). The three centres which had the greatest decrease were Amherst (-29.9% from 431 to 302), Kentville (-28.2% from 252 to 181) and Digby (-1.7% from 178 to 175). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Police Services per Capita This indicator is calculated by dividing total costs of police services by population. Police services in Nova Scotia are delivered by a municipality's own force, the RCMP or a combination of both. Differences between municipalities 12 should be researched before conclusions are made as service levels may vary. In 2010, police services per capita were the highest in the Towns of Annapolis Royal ($610), Bridgewater ($410) and Kentville ($383) and the lowest in the Municipalities of Yarmouth ($69), Argyle ($73) and Antigonish ($77). The Town of Bridgetown and the Municipality of Annapolis reported values of $0. The average for all municipalities, excluding these two, was $212. Source: http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/indicators/public/ProfileSelection.asp

For more information visit http://pe.communityaccounts.ca/table.asp?_=0bfAjIydpaWrnbSTh5FvJukxaGWicW2eVulypKtTr3Cmae7xZeWsp7UWQ__ (Accessed August 2011) 12

For more information, see http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/indicators/public/IndicatorDescriptions.asp (Accessed August 2011)

Fire Services per Capita This indicator is calculated by dividing total costs of fire services by population. Fire services in Nova Scotia are delivered by a municipality's own force, volunteer fire department or a combination of both. Differences between 13 municipalities should be researched before conclusions are made as service levels may vary. In 2010, fire services per capita were the highest in the Town of Annapolis Royal ($357), the Town of Yarmouth ($299) and the Municipality of Guysborough ($246). It was the lowest in the Municipality of Inverness ($23), Municipality of Chester ($26) and the Town of Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbour ($51). The Town of Bridgetown and the Municipality of Annapolis reported values of $0. The average for all municipalities, excluding these two, was $115. Source: http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/indicators/public/ProfileSelection.asp

For more information, see http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/indicators/public/IndicatorDescriptions.asp (Accessed August 2011)

Health and Wellness Why it matters: Lifestyle choices, such as how much we exercise and what we eat, can have a greater effect on our mental and physical health than the availability of doctors or technologies. There are six Health Zones in Nova Scotia which are aggregations of nine district health authorities (DHA).

14,15,16,17

Health Zones Zone 1 = DHAs 1 and 2 Zone 2 = DHA 3 Zone 3 = DHAs 4 and 5 Zone 4 = DHAs 6 and 7 Zone 5 = DHA 8 Zone 6 = DHA 9

District Health Authorities DHA 1 = South Shore DHA 2 = South West DHA 3 = Annapolis Valley DHA 4 = Colchester East Hants DHA 5 = Cumberland DHA 6 = Pictou County DHA 7 = Guysborough Antigonish Strait DHA 8 = Cape Breton DHA 9 = Capital Health

For more information, visit http://www12.statcan.ca/health-sante/82-228/help-aide/DQ-QD03.cfm?Lang=E (Accessed August 2011) Health Zone map downloaded from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-583-x/2011001/article/11478-eng.pdf (August 2011) 16 DHA Map Downloaded from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-583-x/2011001/article/11479-eng.pdf (August 2011) 17 For more information, visit http://www.gov.ns.ca/DHW/about/DHA.asp (Accessed August 2011) 15

Notice: All Health Zone and District Health Authority data reported in this section was sourced from Statistics Canada Health Profile (June 2011). Figures quoted from this source are a two-year average of data collected in 18 2009 and 2010. Healthy Lifestyle Obesity Rates (Self-reported adult body mass index of 30.0 or higher (18 years and over)) Weight is measured using Body mass index (BMI) which is calculated by dividing weight (in kilograms) by height (in metres) squared. Both Canada and the World Health Organization use a weight classification system based on the BMI for evaluating overweight and obesity among adults. The table below describes this system, including the various categories of BMI and the associated levels of health risks. Body Weight Classification for Adults Body Mass Index Classification 2 (in kg/m ) < 18.5 Underweight 18.5 to 24.9 Normal weight 25.0 to 29.9 Overweight ≥ 30.0: Obese: 30.0 to 34.9 Obese Class I 35.0 to 39.9 Obese Class II ≥ 40.0 Obese Class III

Risk of Developing Health Problems Increased risk Least risk Increased risk High risk Very high risk Extremely high risk

In 2010, the self-reported obesity rate for Nova Scotians 18 years of age and older was 26.0%, 43.6% above the national rate of 18.1%. From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s rate increased 27.5% from 20.4%, while nationally the rate increased 18.3% from 15.3%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/III-3.pdf Obese/Overweight Rates In 2009/10, the proportion of Nova Scotians classified as overweight for the six Health Zones ranged from 33.4% in Zone 4 to 37.5% in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 35.5%, or more than 1 in 3. In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians classified as obese for the six Health Zones ranged from 22.4% in Zone 6 to 30.8% in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 25.2%, or more than 1 in 4. In 2009/10, the proportion of Nova Scotians classified as overweight or obese for the six Health Zones ranged from 58.0% in Zones 4 and 6 to 68.3% in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 60.7%, or nearly 2 in 3. Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Smoking Rates “Current smoker” refers to those aged 12 or older who reported smoking daily or occasionally.

http://www12.statcan.ca/health-sante/82228/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&Tab=1&Geo1=HR&Code1=1201&Geo2=HR&Code2=1206&Data=Rate&SearchText=Zone 1&SearchType=Contains&SearchPR=01&B1=All&Custom= (Accessed August 2011)

In 2010, 23.2% of Nova Scotians identified themselves as current smokers, 11.5% above the national average of 20.8%. From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s rate decreased 1.7% from 23.6%, while nationally the rate decreased 9.6% from 23.0%. In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians who identified themselves as current smokers for the six Health Zones ranged from 19.9% in Zone 2 to 27.9% in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 23.2%, or nearly 1 in 4. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/III-5.pdf Exposure to second-hand smoke In 2009/2010, the proportion of the non-smoking population aged 12 and over who reported that at least one person smoked inside their home every day or almost every day for the six Health Zones ranged from 6.5% in Zone 3 to 11.6% in Zone 4. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 8.0%, 33.3% higher than the national proportion (6.0%). In 2009/2010, the proportion of the non-smoking population aged 12 and over who reported being exposed to second-hand smoke in private vehicles and/or public places every day or almost every day for the six Health Zones ranged from 10.4% in Zone 2 to 16.0% in Zone 4. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 14.6%, which is approximately the same as the national proportion (14.8%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Heavy Drinking “Heavy drinking” refers to those aged 12 and over who reported having 5 or more drinks on one occasion, at least once a month in the past year. In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported heavy drinking in the six Health Zones ranged from 16.7% in Zone 4 to 22.8% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 20.5%, 18.5% above the national proportion (17.3%). From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s rate has remained constant at 21.7%. Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 and Statistics Canada 2011 Health Trends.

Leisure-Time Physical Activity In 2010, 53.4% of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over in Nova Scotia reported being physically active during leisure time, 2.5% above the national rate of 52.1%. From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s rate increased 9.7% from 48.7% to 53.4%, while the national rate increased 0.6% from 51.8% to 52.1%. In 2009/2010, the leisure-time physical activity rate for the six Health Zones ranged from 47.0% in Zone 4 to 56.8% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 52.6%, which is approximately the same as the national proportion (52.3%). From 2001 to 2010, physical activity increased in all Health Zones. The Health Zone with the greatest increase was Zone 1 (+36.5% from 35.3% to 48.2%). The Zone with the smallest increase was Zone 4 (+9.3% from 43.0% to 47.0%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 and http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/III-6.pdf 19

http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/health-sante/82213/Op2.cfm?Lang=ENG&TABID=0&LINE_ID=3150&IND=ASR&SX=TOTAL&change=no&S=9&O=A (Accessed September 2011)

Fruit and vegetable consumption; 5 times or more per day In 2009/2010, the proportion Nova Scotians who consumed fruits and vegetables five times or more a day for the six Health Zones ranged from 29.3% in Zone 4 to 43.3% in Zone 2. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 36.3%, 17.9% below the national proportion (44.2%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Bike helmet use In 2009/2010, the proportion Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported that they always wore a helmet when riding a bicycle in the last 12 months for the six Health Zones ranged from 48.9% in Zone 5 to 76.1% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 67.3%, 82.4% higher than the national proportion (36.9%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Influenza immunization In 2009/2010, the proportion Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported receiving an influenza immunization (flu shot) within the past year for the six Health Zones ranged from 37.9% in Zone 4 to 46.0% in Zone 2. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 41.8%, 45.1% higher than the national proportion (28.8%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Mammography In 2009/2010, the proportion of women aged 50 to 69 who reported they had a mammogram for routine screening or other reasons within the past two years for the six Health Zones ranged from 65.4% in Zone 1 to 78.0% in Zone 3. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 69.0%, 4.8% below the national proportion (72.5%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Pap smear In 2009/2010, the proportion of women aged 18 to 69 who reported they had a pap smear within the past three years for the six Health Zones ranged from 74.5% in Zone 5 to 83.6% in Zones 3 and 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 81.0%, 11.3% higher than the national proportion (72.8%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Proportion of the Population 12 years and over without a Regular Medical Doctor In 2010, 6.4% of Nova Scotians reported that they did not have a regular medical doctor. This was down 11.1% from 7.2% in 2009. The 2010 level was 57.9% below the national average of 15.2%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/III-10.pdf In 2009/2010, the proportion of the population aged 12 and over who reported that they did not have a regular medical doctor for the six Health Zones ranged from 3.1% in Zone 5 to 9.7% in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 6.8%. Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 23

Proportion of the Population 12 years and over in contact with a Medical Doctor in the past 12 months In 2009/2010, the proportion of the population aged 12 and over who reported having consulted with a medical doctor in the past 12 months for the six Health Zones ranged from 79.4% in Zone 4 to 86.1% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 83.5%, 3.7% higher than the national proportion (80.5%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Functional Health In 2009/2010, the proportion of the population aged 12 and over reporting measures of good to full for overall functional health based on 8 dimensions of functioning (vision, hearing, speech, mobility, dexterity, feelings, cognition and pain) for the six Health Zones ranged from 73.3% in Zone 2 to 79.3% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 77.1%, 5.3% below the national proportion (81.4%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Perceived Health “Perceived health” refers to the perception of a person's health in general, either by the person themselves or, in the case of proxy response, by the person responding. Health means not only the absence of disease or injury, but also physical, mental and social well being. The perceived health scale is a five-point scale ranging from "excellent" to "poor". In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported perceiving their own health status as being either excellent or very good for the six Health Zones ranged from 48.8% in Zone 1 to 63.5% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 58.5%, 3.0% below the national proportion (60.3%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Mental Health Self-rated Mental Health In 2010, 72.8% of Nova Scotians rated their mental health status as “excellent” or “very good,” 1.5% below the national rate of 73.9%. From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s rate decreased 1.6% from 74.0% to 72.8%, while the national rate increased 0.7% from 73.4% to 73.9%. In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported perceiving their own mental health status as being excellent or very good for the six Health Zones ranged from 66.6% in Zone 4 to 76.7% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 73.6%. From 2001 to 2010, the Health Zone with the greatest increase in perceived mental health was Zone 3 (+16.7% from 62.9% to 73.4%). The Zone with the greatest decrease was Zone 4 (-12.0% from 75.7% to 66.6%). Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/III-7.pdf

Mood disorder In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported that they have been diagnosed by a health professional as having a mood disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, or mania for the six Health Zones ranged from 7.2% in Zone 2 to 9.3% in Zones 3 and 5. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 8.1%, 26.6% above the national proportion (6.4%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Suicides In 2009/2010, the number of deaths caused by suicides and self-inflicted injuries per 10,000 for the six Health Zones ranged from 0.8 deaths in Zones 1,3 and 4 to 1.3 deaths in Zone 5. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 0.9 deaths, which is approximately the same as the national proportion (1.0%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Common Ailments Arthritis In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 14 and over who reported that they have been diagnosed by a health professional as having arthritis for the six Health Zones ranged from 21.5% in Zone 4 to 29.2% in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 25.7%, 65.8% above the national proportion (15.5%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Asthma In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported that they have been diagnosed by a health professional as having asthma for the six Health Zones ranged from 6.6% in Zone 4 to 10.7% in Zone 6. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 9.3%, 12.0% above the national proportion (8.3%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Diabetes In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported that they have been diagnosed by a health professional as having diabetes for the six Health Zones ranged from 6.4% in Zone 6 to 12.3% in Zone 5. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 8.0%, 29.0% above the national proportion (6.2%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 High blood pressure In 2009/2010, the proportion of Nova Scotians aged 12 and over who reported that they have been diagnosed by a health professional as having high blood pressure for the six Health Zones ranged from 17.2% in Zone 6 to 31.6% in Zone 5. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 21.0%, 23.5% above the national proportion (17.0%).

From 2001 to 2010, all Health Zones had an increase in the proportion of their population who had been diagnosed with high blood pressure, with the exception of Zone 3 which had a decrease of 1.1% from 18.5% to 18.3%. The Zone which had the biggest increase was Zone 2, which increased by 65.6% from 12.8% to 21.2%. Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease A group of chronic respiratory disorders characterized by a restricted flow of air into and out of the lungs. The most common example is emphysema. In 2009/2010, the proportion of the population aged 35 and over who reported being diagnosed by a health professional with chronic bronchitis, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for the six Health Zones ranged from 4.3% in Zone 6 to 9.6% in Zone 2. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 6.3%, 46.5% above the national proportion (4.3%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Hospitalized acute myocardial infarction event rate Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the medical term for a heart attack which occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart muscle itself (the myocardium) is severely reduced or stopped. In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of new AMI events requiring hospitalization per 10,000 people for the six Health Zones ranged from 17.8 events in Zone 6 to 34.6 events in Zone 5. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 26.5 events, 26.8% above the national proportion (20.9). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Hospitalized stroke event rate In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of new stroke events requiring hospitalization per 10,000 people for the six Health Zones ranged from 10.4 events in Zone 6 to 13.6 events in Zone 1. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 11.6 events, 6.5% below the national proportion (12.4). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Life and Death Low Birth Weight Babies In 2009/2010, the proportion of newborn babies born with a low birth weight for the six Health Zones ranged from 5.4% in Zone 4 to 6.7% in Zone 2. The proportion for Nova Scotia was 6.1%, which was approximately the same as the national proportion (6.0%). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011

Life expectancy Life expectancy is the number of years a person would be expected to live starting from birth (for life expectancy at birth) or at age 65 (for life expectancy at age 65) on the basis of the mortality statistics for a given observation period. Life expectancy at birth In 2009/2010, life expectancy at birth for the six Health Zones ranged from 77.9 years in Zone 5 to 80.3 years in Zone 6. Life expectancy for Nova Scotia as a whole was 79.7 years, compared to 80.7 years nationally. Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Life expectancy at age 65 In 2009/2010, life expectancy at age 65 for the six Health Zones ranged from 18.2 years in Zone 5 to 19.3 years in Zone 3. Life expectancy at age 65 for Nova Scotia as a whole was 18.9 years, compared to 19.8 years nationally. Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 All cancers; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by cancer per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 17.9 deaths in Zone 2 to 21.9 deaths in Zone 5. Nova Scotia’s rate was 18.9, 13.9% higher than the national rate (16.6). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Colorectal cancer; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by colorectal cancer per 10,000 for all six Health Zones ranged from 1.1 deaths in Zone 4 to 2.3 deaths in Zone 5. Nova Scotia’s rate was 1.8, which is the same as the national rate (1.8). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Lung cancer; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by lung cancer per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 4.8 deaths in Zone 1 to 6.5 deaths in Zone 5. Nova Scotia’s rate was 5.4, 20.0% higher than the national rate (4.5). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Breast cancer; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by breast cancer per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 0.9 deaths in Zone 1 to 1.5 deaths in Zone 5. Nova Scotia’s rate was 1.2, which is the same as the national rate (1.2). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 27

Prostate cancer; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by prostate cancer per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 0.8 deaths in Zones 1 and 2 to 1.4 deaths in Zone 4. Nova Scotia’s rate was 0.9, which is slightly higher than the national rate (0.8). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Circulatory diseases; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by circulatory diseases per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 17 deaths in Zone 6 to 20.4 deaths in Zone 5. Nova Scotia’s rate was 18.0, 14.6% higher than the national rate (15.7). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Respiratory diseases; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by respiratory diseases per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 4.7 deaths in Zone 1 to 6.0 deaths in Zone 2. Nova Scotia’s rate was 5.4, 20.0% higher than the national rate (4.5). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Unintentional injuries; deaths per 10,000 people In 2009/2010, the age-standardized rate of death caused by unintentional injuries per 10,000 people for all six Health Zones ranged from 2.9 deaths in Zone 6 to 3.8 deaths in Zone 3. Nova Scotia’s rate was 3.2, 28.0% higher than the national rate (2.5). Source: Statistics Canada Health Profile, June 2011 Wait Times Wait times for hip and knee surgery in Nova Scotia are the longest in Canada. Hip replacements The national wait time benchmark for a hip replacement is six months or approximately 180 days. In Nova Scotia, 51% of patients requiring hip replacement receive surgery within this timeframe, compared to 86% nationally. District Health Authorities Pictou County Health Annapolis Valley Health Capital Health Cape Breton District Health

5 out of 10 patients wait less than 117 Days 205 Days 209 Days 355 Days

9 out of 10 patients wait less than 519 Days 601 Days 552 Days 727 Days

Data Period: January 1 - March 31 2011; Data Source: Medical Services Insurance (MSI) physician billing system Source: http://gov.ns.ca/health/waittimes/procedure.asp?pid=1011

Knee replacements The national wait time benchmark for a knee replacement is six months or approximately 180 days. In Nova Scotia, 47% of knee replacement patients receive surgery within this timeframe compared to 81% nationally. District Health Authorities Annapolis Valley Health Cape Breton District Health Capital Health Pictou County Health

5 out of 10 patients wait less than 193 Days 272 Days 284 Days 337 Days

9 out of 10 patients wait less than 642 Days 825 Days 690 Days 538 Days

Data Period: January 1 - March 31 2011; Data Source: Medical Services Insurance (MSI) physician billing system Source: http://gov.ns.ca/health/waittimes/procedure.asp?pid=1014 Cataract Surgery The national wait time benchmark for cataract surgery is sixteen weeks or approximately 112 days. In Nova Scotia, 84% of all high risk cataract patients receive surgery within this timeframe. District Health Authorities Cape Breton District Health Pictou County Health Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Colchester East Hants Health Cumberland Health Capital Health South West Health South Shore Health Annapolis Valley Health

5 out of 10 patients wait less than 28 Days 28 Days 48 Days 58 Days 63 Days 64 Days 69 Days 135 Days 136 Days

9 out of 10 patients wait less than 89 Days 258 Days 124 Days 106 Days 116 Days 173 Days 112 Days 260 Days 253 Days

Data Period: January 1 - March 31 2011; Data Source: Medical Services Insurance (MSI) physician billing system Source: http://gov.ns.ca/health/waittimes/procedure.asp?pid=1008 Mammography (Diagnostic) Hospital/Health Care Center Cape Breton Regional Hospital South Shore Regional Hospital Aberdeen Hospital St. Martha's Regional Hospital Valley Regional Hospital Cumberland Regional Health Centre Colchester Regional Hospital Yarmouth Regional Hospital QEII Health Sciences Centre

5 out of 10 patients wait less than 6 Days 6 Days 8 Days 8 Days 8 Days 11 Days 15 Days 22 Days 48 Days

9 out of 10 patients wait less than 22 Days 9 Days 15 Days 20 Days 37 Days 23 Days 21 Days 35 Days 106 Days

Data Period: April 1 - June 30 2011; Data Source: Nova Scotia Breast Screening Program Source: http://gov.ns.ca/health/waittimes/procedure.asp?pid=1035

Radiation Oncologist Did You Know? Nova Scotia women have the highest rate of cancer in the country, while our men have the second highest rate. Community Sydney Halifax

Hospital/Health Care Center Cape Breton Regional Hospital QEII Health Sciences Centre

Average Wait Times 17 Days 23 Days

Data Period: June 2011; Data Source: Cape Breton Cancer Centre and Nova Scotia Cancer Centre Source: http://gov.ns.ca/health/waittimes/procedure.asp?pid=1027

Learning Why it matters: Successful communities offer residents abundant, affordable and flexible opportunities to learn in formal school settings, at work or online. Educational Attainment (15 years and over) Post-Secondary Education Post-secondary education refers to those whose highest level of educational attainment is an apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma; college, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma; university certificate or diploma below bachelor level; or a university degree. In 2010, 52.7% of Nova Scotians 15 years and older had completed post-secondary education, 1.7% higher than the national rate of 51.8%. From 1990 to 2010, Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s post-secondary completion rate increased 47.6% from 35.7%, while the national rate increased 58.4% from 32.7%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/IV-2-a.pdf Post-Secondary Education Attainment Rates (Total Population 15 years and older) by County (2006) Highest Rates

Lowest Rates

1. Halifax (61.8%) 2. Antigonish (60.8%) 3. Kings (53.7%)

1. Shelburne (34.3%) 2. Guysborough (39.8%) 3. Queens (41.3%)

Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Undergraduate tuition fees for full time students in Nova Scotia, by discipline (annual) As outlined in the table below, average tuition fees for full time students in Nova Scotia have decreased 14.4% from $6,422 in 2006/2007 to $5,495 in 2010/2011. However, as of 2010/2011, they remain 6.9% above the national average ($5,138). 2006/2007 Canada Nova Scotia Agriculture, Nat. Resources and Conservation Architecture and Related Services Humanities Business Management and Public Admin. Education Engineering Law Medicine

4,400 6,422 5,500 6,300 5,930 5,980 6,685 6,693 11,666 13,818

2007/2008

2008/2009

2009/2010

2010/2011

4,558 6,110 5,429 6,130 5,617 5,617 5,901 6,284 11,491 13,520

average ($) 4,747 5,877 5,021 6,003 5,373 5,505 5,746 6,066 11,408 13,360

4,942 5,752 4,894 5,907 5,247 5,388 5,351 5,962 11,345 13,201

5,138 5,495 4,633 5,646 4,986 5,129 5,125 5,701 11,084 12,940

Visual and Performing Arts & Comm. Tech. Physical and Life Sciences and Technologies Math., Computer and information Sciences Social and Behavioural Sciences Other Health, Parks, Recreation and Fitness Dentistry Nursing Pharmacy

6,010 6,241 6,730 6,130 7,044 .. .. ..

5,615 5,937 6,019 5,764 6,606 13,831 6,054 8,393

5,381 5,916 5,788 5,387 6,225 13,741 5,867 8,242

5,239 5,798 5,646 5,341 5,936 13,600 5,640 8,077

4,978 5,537 5,385 5,089 5,682 13,339 5,379 7,816

Source: http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/educ50d-eng.htm and http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/educ50aeng.htm High School Drop-Out Rate The high school drop-out rate reflects the proportion of the population aged 20 to 24 who have not completed high school. Figures are based on a three-year moving average. Academic years are from September to April and are recorded to reflect the end of the academic period under examination (e.g., the average for 2000-2001 to 20022003 is recorded under 2003). In 2010, Nova Scotia’s high-school drop-out rate was 8.6%, 3.4% below the national rate (8.9%) and down 32.3% from 2000 (12.7%). Source: http://www4.rhdcc.gc.ca/cv3@-eng.jsp?seriesid=8&seriesid=15&fromind=1&sid=8&submit=Submit&iid=32&chrtid=2

School Boards of Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has seven English language school boards and one 21 School Boards of No French first language school board as follows:school board as follows: Nova Scotia has seven English language school boards and one French first language  Annapolis Valley Regional  Cape Breton-Victoria Regional  Chignecto-Central Regional  Conseil scolaire acadien provincial  Halifax Regional  South Shore Regional

       

Annapolis Valley Regional Cape Breton-Victoria Regional Chignecto-Central Regional Conseil scolaire acadien provincial Halifax Regional South Shore Regional Strait Regional Tri-County Regional

Downloaded from: http://www.ednet.ns.ca/pdfdocs/school_boards/SchoolBoardMap.pdf (August 2011)

Nova Scotia Public School Enrolment and Funding Year 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Enrolment 154,476 151,862 148,700 146,370 143,321 139,964 136,000 133,134 130,550 Total

% Change Yr over Yr -1.7% -2.1% -1.6% -2.1% -2.3% -2.8% -2.1% -1.9% -15.5%

Cost per Student $6,002 $6,258 $6,716 $7,047 $7,591 $8,217 $8,724 $9,223 $9,728

% Change Yr over Yr +4.3% +7.3% +4.9% +7.7% +8.2% +6.2% +5.7% +5.5% +62.1%

Nova Scotia’s public school enrolment has decreased an average of 2.1% each year over the past nine years for an overall loss of 15.5% since the 2001-02 school year. Nova Scotia’s public school funding, described as cost per student in the table above, has increased an average of 6.2% each year over the past nine years for an overall increase of 62.1% since the 2001-02 school year. Source: The Minister’s Report to Parents and Guardians (2010). Downloaded from: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/ministers-report-to-parents-guardians-2010 School Board Population Served (2010) School Board Conseil scolaire acadien provincial Tri-County Regional Strait Regional South Shore Regional Annapolis Valley Regional Cape Breton-Victoria Regional Chignecto-Central Regional Halifax Regional Total

Number of Students Grades P-12 4,446 7,152 7,390 7,510 14,895 15,479 22,397 51,281 130,550

% of NS School Population 3.4 5.5 5.7 5.8 11.4 11.9 17.2 39.3 100.0

Source: The Minister’s Report to Parents and Guardians (2010). Downloaded from: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/ministers-report-to-parents-guardians-2010 Student to Teacher Ratios In 2008, the three school boards with the lowest student to teacher ratios were Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial (11.6:1), Cape Breton- Victoria (12.5:1) and Strait (12.5:1). The three school boards with the highest student to teacher ratios were Annapolis Valley (15.1: 1), Chignecto-Central (14.3:1) and Halifax (13.8:1). Source: http://stats-summary.ednet.ns.ca/tcher.shtml

Standardized Student Test Scores (OECD PISA Study) The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s Programme for International Student Assessment seeks to measure the extent to which youth, at age 15, have acquired some of the knowledge and skills that are 22 essential for full participation in modern societies.

Nova Scotia Canada OECD Avg.

2003 513 528 494

Reading 2006 505 527 492

2009 516 524 496

2003 515 532 500

Average Scores Mathematics 2006 506 527 498

2009 512 527 497

2003 505 519 500

Sciences 2006 522 534 500

2009 523 529 501

From 2003 to 2009, Nova Scotia’s students have consistently scored below the national level on standardized tests in reading, mathematics and science; however they have consistently approximated or exceeded the OECD averages. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/IV-5.pdf and http://pisacountry.acer.edu.au/ Provincial Assessments and Examinations The Evaluation Services division of the Department of Education develops, administers, scores and reports on English and French provincial assessment and examinations. Provincial Assessment and Examination Score Summary

Elem Reading Elem Writing Jr High Reading Jr High Writing Grade 3 Math Grade 6 Math Grade 12 Math Grade 12 Adv Math

2006/7

2007/8

2008/9

2009/10

2010/11

n/a n/a 87 90 n/a n/a 26 64

86 91 85 92 72 n/a 51 70

86 93 82 95 71 n/a 45 64

85 92 81 94 75 63 n/a n/a

84 90 n/a n/a 75 62 52 70

Nova Scotia’s elementary, junior- and senior-high school students do well on their provincial examinations and assessments, with the exception of mathematics where student scores generally decrease as they progress from elementary school to junior- and senior- high school. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/

For more information, see The Performance of Canada's Youth in Reading, Mathematics and Science. PISA 2009 First Results for Canadians Aged 15 (Measuring Up: Canadian Results of the OECD PISA Study) downloaded from: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/access_acces/alternative_alternatif.action?l=eng&loc=http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/81-590-x/81-590-x2010001eng.pdf&t=The%20Performance%20of%20Canada's%20Youth%20in%20Reading,%20Mathematics%20and%20Science.%20PISA%202009%20Fir st%20Results%20for%20Canadians%20Aged%2015%20(Measuring%20Up:%20%20Canadian%20Results%20of%20the%20OECD%20PISA%20Stu dy) (Accessed August 2011) 23 “N/A” means data was not available.

Grade 6 Literacy Assessments (Reading and Writing) In 2010/2011, the school boards with the highest grade 6 reading literacy assessment scores were Halifax (88%), Strait (86%), and Cape Breton-Victoria (83%) and South Shore (83%). The school boards with the lowest scores were Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial (78%), Annapolis Valley (78%) and Tri-county (80%). The provincial average was 84%. In 2010/2011, the three school boards with the highest grade 6 writing literacy assessment scores were Strait (94%), South Shore (92%) and Halifax (91%). The three school boards with the lowest scores were Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial (81%), Annapolis Valley (85%) and Tri-County (87%). The provincial average was 90%. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/files/Results/2010-2011%20ELA.pdf Grade 9 Literacy Assessments (Reading and Writing) In 2010/11, the three school boards with the highest grade 9 reading literacy assessment scores were Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial (84%), Chignecto-Central (80%) and Strait (80%). The school boards with the lowest scores were South Shore (74%), Tri-County (75%), Annapolis Valley (77%) and Cape Breton Victoria (77%). The provincial average was 78%. In 2010/11, the school board with the highest grade 9 writing literacy assessment scores was Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial (94%) and the one with the lowest was Annapolis Valley (87%). The provincial average was 90%. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/files/2010-2011JHLA-Results_0.pdf Grade 12 English In 2008/9, the three school boards with the highest passing rate for English 12 were South Shore (82%), Strait (81%), and Annapolis Valley (81%). The three school boards with the lowest passing rates were Tri-County (68%), Cape Breton-Victoria (71%) and Halifax (75%). The provincial average was 76%. In 2008/9, the three school boards with the highest passing rate for Communications 12 were Strait (83%), TriCounty (80%) and Annapolis Valley (79%). The school boards with the lowest passing rates were Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial (58%), Cape Breton-Victoria (61%) and South Shore (73%) and Chignecto-Central (73%). The provincial average was 74%. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/files/ns-examinations/nse-english/results/2008-2009%20NSE%20English.pdf Grade 3 Math Literacy In 2010/2011, the school boards with the highest grade 3 overall mathematical literacy assessment scores were Strait (80%) and Chignecto-Central (77%). The school boards with the lowest scores were Tri-county (70%) and Cape Breton-Victoria (71%). The provincial average was 75%. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/files/2010-2011EEMLA-Results.pdf

Grade 6 Math Literacy In 2010/2011, the school boards with the highest grade 6 overall mathematical literacy assessment scores were Strait (66%) and Halifax (66%). The school boards with the lowest scores were Annapolis Valley (55%), Cape Breton-Victoria (58%) and Tri-County (58%). The provincial average was 62%. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/files/2010-2011EMLA-Results.pdf Grade 12 Math In Nova Scotia, Grade 12 Math is not compulsory in order to earn a High School Graduation Diploma.

In 2010/11, only two school boards had more than half of its students who took Mathematics 12 pass the course: Chignecto-Central (66%) and Halifax (54%). The three school boards with the lowest passing rates were Tri-County (34%), South Shore (39%) and Strait (45%). The provincial average was 52%. In 2010/11, the three school boards with the highest passing rate for Mathematics Advanced 12 were ChignectoCentral (83%), Halifax (73%) and Cape Breton-Victoria (72%). The three school boards with the lowest passing rates were Tri-county (50%), South Shore (60%) and Annapolis Valley (62%). The provincial average was 70%. Source: http://plans.ednet.ns.ca/files/2010-2011NSEMathemathics-Results.pdf

http://csp.ednet.ns.ca/credits_graduation.shtml

Housing Why it matters: Housing is a basic human need. MLS Average Residential Prices in Nova Scotia MLS stands for Multiple Listing Service, a service that advertises the availability of real estate for sale. In 2009, the average residential price in Nova Scotia was $196,690, up 119.1% from $89,788 in 1995. The 2009 average was 38.5% lower than the national average of $320,333. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/appendices/App-V-2.pdf Ratio of MLS Average Residential Prices to Median Pre-Tax Economic Family Income In 2009, the ratio of the average residential price to the median pre-tax income for an economic family in Nova Scotia was 3.19, 0.4% higher than its 2008 level of 3.18. The 2009 level was 28.0% lower than the national level of 4.43. From 1995 to 2009, Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ratio increased 41.2% from 2.26 to 3.19. Nationally, the ratio increased 37.5% from 3.20 to 4.43. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/V-2-b.pdf Average Housing Values by County (2006) Top three

Bottom three

1. Halifax ($212,942) 2. Lunenburg ($173,183) 3. Kings ($157,186)

1. Cape Breton ($87,935) 2. Guysborough ($91,800) 3. Cumberland ($100,041)

From 1996 to 2006, housing values increased in all counties. The three counties which had the largest increases were Digby (+115.6% from $60,688 to $130,862), Lunenburg (+93.7% from $89,391 to $173,183) and Halifax (+87.4% from $113,628 to $212,942). The three counties which had the smallest increases were Cape Breton (+37.9% from $63,773 to $87,935), Cumberland (+54.7% from $64,685 to $100,041) and Colchester (+69.3% from $76,258 to $129,116). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Average Annual Rent for a Two Bedroom Apartment as a Percent of Median Pre-Tax Economic Family Income In 2009, the average annual rent for a two bedroom apartment in Nova Scotia was 16.3% of the median pre-tax economic family income, up 2.1% from 16.0% in 2008. The 2009 figure was 20.9% higher than the national level of 13.5%. From 1995 to 2009, Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proportion decreased 7.9% from 17.7% to 16.3% while nationally, the proportion decreased 10.0% from 15.0% to 13.5%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/V-5.pdf

Proportion of Renters In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of renters were Halifax (36.0%), Kings (28.0%) and Colchester (26.1%). The three counties with the lowest proportion of renters were Guysborough (11.7%), Victoria (13.4%) and Richmond (14.4%). Source: http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/map_centre/cnt.html# Dwellings by Period of Construction Built Before 1946 In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of dwellings built before 1946 were Queens (37.8%), Shelburne (36.6%), and Cumberland (35.4%). The three counties with the smallest proportion were Annapolis (11.5%), Lunenburg (15.6%) and Digby (18.7%). Built between 2001 and 2006 In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of dwellings built between 2001 and 2006 were Antigonish (9.0%), Richmond (8.2%) and Kings (6.5%). The three counties with the smallest proportion were Yarmouth (2.3%), Annapolis (2.6%) and Shelburne (2.7%). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp Proportion of Units Requiring Major Repair In 2006, 9.5% of dwelling units in Nova Scotia were in need of major repair, 26.7% above the Canada-wide level of 7.5%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/V-6.pdf In 2006, the three counties with the greatest proportion of dwellings requiring major repair were Guysborough (15.2%), Queens (14.0%) and Cumberland (13.7%). The three counties with the smallest proportion were Halifax (6.8%), Antigonish (9.1%) and Kings (9.2%). Source: Nova Scotia Community Counts http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/default.asp

Environment Why it matters: Clean air and water, uncontaminated soil, and green spaces are essential to healthy living. Preserving and protecting our local environment creates a strong foundation for our childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future. Households that Composted Kitchen or Yard Waste In 2009, 91% of all respondents in Nova Scotia reported composting kitchen waste, 112% higher than the national average of 43%, while 64% of all respondents that did not live in apartment buildings and had a lawn or garden reported composting their yard waste, 28% higher than the national average of 50%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VIII-5.pdf Household Use of Energy-Saving Light Bulbs In 2009, 93.2% of households in Nova Scotia used some form of energy-saving light bulbs, 4.8% higher than the national average of 88.9%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VIII-7.pdf Water Conservation Practices Low-Flow Showerheads In 2009, 66.2% of households in Nova Scotia had a low-flow showerhead, 5.9% above the national average of 62.5%. Low-volume toilets In 2009, low-volume toilets were present in 39.3% of households, 6.5% below the national average of 42.1%. Lawn Watering In 2009, of the 84.4% of households with lawns in Nova Scotia, 15.4% watered their lawns three or more times a week, 24.6% higher than the national average of 12.4%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VIII-8.pdf Greenhouse Gas Emissions The quantity of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per unit of energy generated for a specific fuel is known as emission intensity and can be measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per gigawatt-hour. Emission intensities vary according to the specific type of fuel used, the quality of that fuel, the conversion technology used and the efficiency of the combustion unit. The data reported below is the emission intensity related 25 to the generation of electricity by public utilities.

For more information, visit http://www.ec.gc.ca/ges-ghg/default.asp?lang=En&n=EAF0E96A-1#section4 (Accessed August 2011)

In 2008, at 790 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per gigawatt-hour, Nova Scotia had the second highest overall greenhouse gas emissions intensity in Canada. Alberta had the highest level at 880 tonnes, while the Canadian average was 200 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per gigawatt-hour. From 1990 to 2008, the only two provinces which increased their GHG emissions intensity in Canada were Nova Scotia (+5.3% from 750 to 790) and New Brunswick (+24.3% from 370 to 460). British Columbia remained constant at 20 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per gigawatt-hour, while all other provinces decreased their GHG emissions intensity. Source: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ges-ghg/default.asp?lang=En&n=EAF0E96A-1#section4

Sense of Belonging Why it matters: The more we feel connected to others and our communities, the more vibrant and resilient we are individually and collectively. Population Reporting a Strong or Somewhat Strong Sense of Community Belonging In 2010, 71.6% of Nova Scotians aged twelve or older reported a strong or somewhat strong sense of community belonging, up 0.7% from the 2009 level of 71.1% and 9.5% higher than the national level of 65.4%. From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s sense of community belonging increased 1.0% from 70.9% to 71.6%, while nationally it increased 2.3% from 63.9% to 65.4%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-6.pdf Population Reporting Life Satisfaction as Satisfied and Very Satisfied In 2010, 92.0% of Nova Scotians aged twelve or older indicated that they were satisfied or very satisfied with their overall life, up 0.3% from the 2009 level of 91.7%, and approximately the same as the national level of 92.1%. From 2003 to 2010, Nova Scotian’s sense of satisfaction decreased by 0.8% from 92.7% to 92.0%, while the national level increased 0.9% from 91.3% to 92.1%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-7-b.pdf Voter Turnout for 2011 Federal Elections In 2011, the voter turnout for federal elections in Nova Scotia was 62.1%, 1.1% higher than the national rate of 61.4%, and 3.0% higher than its 2008 rate of 60.3%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-3.pdf Voter Turnout for 2009 Provincial Election In 2009, the three Provincial Electoral Districts with the highest voter participation rates were Clare (76.7%) Guysborough –Sheet Harbour (74.0%) and Richmond (73.7%). The three Districts with the lowest participation rates were Dartmouth North (48.7%), Halifax Needham (49.0%) and Halifax Citadel (50.7%). The average voter participation rate was 58.9%. Source: http://www.gov.ns.ca/finance/communitycounts/map_centre/ped.html# Charitable Donors as a Proportion of Tax Filers In 2009, 22.5% of tax filers in Nova Scotia declared charitable donations, 2.6% below the national level of 23.1%. Nova Scotia’s 2009 level is 3.4% lower than its 2008 level of 23.3%. From 2001 to 2009, the proportion of Nova Scotia tax filers declaring charitable donations dropped 5.2% from 23.7% to 22.5%, compared to an 8.5% decrease nationally from 25.2% to 23.1%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-1.pdf

Median Charitable Donations In 2009, the median charitable donation in Nova Scotia was $300, 20.0% higher than Canada’s median charitable donation of $250. From 2001 to 2009, Nova Scotia’s median charitable donation increased 15.4% from $260 to $300, compared to a 25.0% increase nationally from $200 to $250. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-4.pdf Spending on Social Clubs and Other Organizations In 2009, 15.9% of households in Nova Scotia reported contributing and paying dues towards social clubs and other organizations, 5.9% lower than the national average of 16.9%. From 2002 to 2009, the proportion of households in Nova Scotia that reported contributing and paying dues towards social clubs and other organizations dropped 23.2% from 20.7% to 15.9%, while nationally it dropped 16.7% from 20.3% to 16.9%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-5.pdf Household spending on Arts and Culture In 2009, the total average expenditure per household on arts and culture in Nova Scotia was $907, 5.7% lower than the national rate of $962. Of this total, $815.00 was spent on “entertainment.” Within this category, the top three expenditures were cablevision and satellite services ($590), movie theatres ($84) and live performing arts ($80). Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/appendices/App-VII-5-ii(2009).pdf Use of Recreation Facilities In 2009, 37.0% of households in Nova Scotia reported using recreation facilities, 3.1% below the national average of 38.2%. From 2002 to 2009, the proportion of households in Nova Scotia that reported using recreation facilities dropped 20.9% from 46.8% to 37.0%, while nationally this proportion dropped 20.3% from 47.9% to 38.2%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/X-5.pdf Internet Access (Personal Use) In 2009, 76.3% of Nova Scotians reported having accessed the internet for personal use from home, school, work, public library or other, 5.0% below the national level of 80.3%. Also in 2009, 74.4% of Nova Scotians reported having accessed the internet for personal use from home, 3.5% below the national level of 77.1%. Source: Canadian Internet User Survey (http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/comm36d-eng.htm and http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/comm36a-eng.htm)

Economy Why it matters: Strong and vibrant communities provide a wide variety of opportunities for secure, well-paid work. Safe, accessible, well-paying jobs will help attract and retain the talent pool we need for our future. Employment Rate The employment rate is the percentage of Canadian adults (15 years of age and over but excluding those living on reserves, in the military or institutionalized) working for pay. In 2010 at 58.2%, Nova Scotia had an employment rate 5.5% lower than the national rate of 61.6%. From 2000 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s employment rate increased 4.5% from 55.7% to 58.2%, compared to an increase of 0.5% nationally from 61.3% to 61.6%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/IX-1-a-i.pdf Employment Growth In 2010, 452,500 people were employed in Nova Scotia, up 0.2% from 451,400 in 2009. This growth rate is 86.0% below the national rate of 1.4%. From 2000 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s compounded average annual employment growth rate was 1.1%, 31.3% below the national rate of 1.6%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/IX-3-a-i.pdf Unemployment Rate (Population aged 15 years and older) The unemployment rate is the percentage of Canadian adults (15 years of age and over but excluding those living on reserves, in the military or institutionalized) who were on temporary layoff during the reference week with an expectation of recall and were available for work, or were without work, had looked for work in the past four weeks, and were available for work, or had a new job to start within four weeks from reference week, and were available for work. In 2010, the unemployment rate for Nova Scotia was 9.3%, 16.3% above the national level of 8.0%, and up 1.1% from 9.2% in 2009. From 2000 to 2010, Nova Scotia’s average unemployment rate was 8.8%, 23.9% higher than the national rate of 7.1%. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/IX-2-a-i.pdf Unemployment Rate of Immigrants and Non-Immigrants In 2010, the unemployment rate of recent immigrants (i.e., those who entered the country within the last five years) was 11.9% in Nova Scotia, 26.6% above the non-immigrant rate of 9.4%. Nova Scotia’s 2010 rate was 24.7% below the national unemployment rate of recent immigrants of 15.8%. Nova Scotia’s 2010 rate was up 11.2% from 10.7% in 2009.

In 2010, the unemployment rate of less recent immigrants (i.e., those who entered the country more than 10 years ago) was 4.8% in Nova Scotia, 49.0% below the non-immigrant rate of 9.4%. Nova Scotia’s 2010 rate was 41.5% below the national unemployment rate of less recent immigrants of 8.2%. Nova Scotia’s 2010 rate was down 12.7% from 5.5% in 2009. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VI-2-b.pdf Unemployment Rate of Youth (15 to 24 Years) In 2010, the youth unemployment rate was 15.9% in Nova Scotia, 7.4% above the national rate of 14.8%. The youth unemployment rate decreased 8.1% from 17.3% in 2009 and was essentially unchanged from 15.8% in 2000. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/VI-4-b-i.pdf Average and Median Real Hourly Earnings In 2010, median hourly earnings in Nova Scotia were $16.92, 9.6% lower than the national figure of $18.71 while average hourly earnings were $19.90, 6.3% lower than the national figure of $21.23. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/IX-4-b-i.pdf Work Absence for Full-time Employees In 2010, full-time workers were absent from work an average of 9.8 days in Nova Scotia (excluding days spent on maternity leave and including days lost for illness or disability or personal or family responsibility), 7.7% higher than the national level of 9.1 missed days. The average number of missed days in Nova Scotia has increased 38.0% from 7.1 days in 1997, while nationally it has increased 23.0% from 7.4 days. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/III-8.pdf Economic Zones Nova Scotia has five Economic Zones:  Annapolis Valley  Cape Breton  Halifax  North Shore  Southern An Economic Zone is a grouping of complete census divisions created for analysis of regional economic activity.

Real GDP (in Chained 2002 Dollars) The gross domestic product (GDP) is one of the primary indicators of a region’s economic performance. Real GDP is an inflation-adjusted measure that reflects the value of all goods and services produced in a given year, expressed 26 in base-year prices. Chained dollars is a method of adjusting real dollar amounts for inflation over time, so as to allow comparison of figures from different years. Chained dollars in this section reflect dollar figures computed with 2002 as the base year. Chained dollars are weighted by a basket that changes from year to year so as to more accurately reflect spending. The basket is an average of the basket for successive pairs of years. The technique is so named because the second number in a pair of successive years becomes the first in the next pair. The result is a "chain" of weights and averages. The advantage of using the chained-dollar measure is that it is more closely related to any given period 27 covered and is therefore subject to less distortion over time. In 2010, real GDP in Nova Scotia reached $27.2 billion, up 2.3% from its 2009 level of $26.6 billion. From 2001 to 2009, Nova Scotia’s real GDP grew an average of 1.5% annually, compared to an average growth rate of 1.7% nationally. In 2010, Nova Scotia accounted for 2.1% of the total real GDP of Canada. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-1.pdf Real GDP per Capita (in Chained 2002 Dollars) A measure of the total output of a region that takes the GDP and divides it by the number of people in the region. Per capita GDP is especially useful when comparing one region to another because it shows the relative performance of the regions. A rise in per capita GDP signals growth in the economy and tends to translate as 28 an increase in productivity. In 2010, Nova Scotia’s GDP per capita was $28,867, up 2.0% from its 2009 level of $28,311, and 25.7% lower than the Canada-wide level ($38,846). From 2006 to 2009, Nova Scotia’s compound average annual per capita GDP 29 growth rate was 0.9%, compared to 1.1% decline nationally. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-1.pdf and http://www40.statcan.gc.ca/l01/cst01/demo02aeng.htm Real GDP per Worker (in Chained 2002 Dollars) In 2010, Nova Scotia’s real GDP per worker was $60,127, up 2.1% from its 2009 level of $58,900 and 22.7% lower than the Canada-wide level ($77,753). From 2001 to 2009, Nova Scotia’s compound average annual per worker GDP growth rate was 0.7%, compared to 0.4% nationally. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-2.pdf

For more information, please see http://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/realgdp.asp#ixzz1WQ5XpjV6 (Accessed August 2011) For more information, please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chained_dollars (Accessed September 2011) 28 For more information, please see http://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/per-capita-gdp.asp#ixzz1WQ5FguCs (Accessed August 2011) 29 For more information, please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compound_annual_growth_rate (Accessed September 21, 2011) 27

Personal Disposable Income per Capita (in 2002 Chained Dollars) In 2009, the personal disposable income per capita in Nova Scotia was $23,130, up 18.8% from $19,469 in 2000 and 10.8% lower than the national level of $25,938. From 2006 to 2009, Nova Scotia’s compound average annual 30 personal disposable income per capita growth rate was 2.6%, 44.4% above the national growth rate of 1.8%. Source: British Columbia Economic Statistics Report http://www.bcstats.gov.bc.ca/pubs/esr/esr.pdf (August 12, 2011) Consumer Bankruptcies Number of Occurrences In 2010, there were 4,180 consumer bankruptcies in Nova Scotia, up 22.6% from its 2000 level of 3,410. Nationally, consumer bankruptcies increased 23.4% over the same time period. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-4-a-i.pdf Rate per 1,000 Persons In 2009, Nova Scotia’s consumer bankruptcy rate per 1,000 people was 6.2, 37.8% higher than the national rate (4.5). Since 2000, Nova Scotia’s consumer bankruptcy rate per 1,000 people has consistently exceeded the national rate. From 2000-2009, Nova Scotia’s rate increased 59.5% from 3.9 to 6.2, while nationally the rate increased 41.1% from 3.2 to 4.5. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-4-a-ii.pdf Business Bankruptcies Number of Occurrences In 2010, there were 138 business bankruptcies in Nova Scotia, down 33.0% from its 2007 level of 206, the first year for which data are available. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-4-b-i.pdf Rate per 1,000 Persons In 2009, Nova Scotia’s business bankruptcy rate per 1,000 people was 2.8, 16.7% higher than the national rate (2.4). Since 2000, Nova Scotia’s business bankruptcy rate per 1,000 people has consistently exceeded the national rate. From 2000-2009, Nova Scotia’s rate decreased 60.6% from 7.1 to 2.8, while nationally the rate decreased 51% from 4.9 to 2.4. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-4-b-ii.pdf

For more information, please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compound_annual_growth_rate (Accessed September 21, 2011)

Non-Residential Building Permit Values In 2010, non-residential building permits were valued at $678 million in Nova Scotia, up 20.8% from $561 million in 2009. The value of Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s non-residential building permits in 2010 accounted for 2.3% of the total national value of non-residential building permits ($28,974 million). Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-5-i.pdf Housing Starts In 2010, the construction of 4,309 new dwellings began in Nova Scotia, up 25.3% from 3,438 housing starts in 2009. This figure constitutes 2.3% of housing starts nationally (189,930). Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-6-i.pdf Retail Sales Retail sales for Nova Scotia in 2011 are projected to be $12,992 million, up 6.7% from $12,174 million in 2010. Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projected increase in retail sales in 2011 is 39.6% higher than the national projection of 4.8% from $427,869 million to $448,212 million. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-7-a.pdf Consumer Price Index Inflation In 2010, the CPI (2002=100) in Nova Scotia was 118.2, up 2.2% from 115.7 in 2009, 22.2% higher than the national rate of 1.8% from 114.4 to 116.5. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-9-i.pdf Total Employment Insurance Benefits Beneficiaries In 2010, there were 45,022 employment insurance benefits beneficiaries in Nova Scotia, down 0.5% from 45,262 beneficiaries in 2009, and up 11.9% from 40,251 beneficiaries in 1997. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XIII-10-i.pdf Employment by Class of Worker Public sector means those who work for a local, provincial or federal government, for a government service or agency, a crown corporation, or a government funded establishment such as a school (including universities) or hospital. Private sector means those who work as employees of a private firm or business. In July 2011, there were 451,400 workers in Nova Scotia. Of these workers, 272,200 (60.3%) were employed in the private sector, down 3.9% from 283,100 in July 2010; 117,400 (26.0%) were employed in the public sector, up 5.7% from 111,100; and 61,800 were self-employed, up 1.0% from 61,200. Source: Labour Force Survey http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/labr66d-eng.htm

Employment by Industry In 2010, Nova Scotiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goods-producing sector accounted for 19.2% of the population employed in all industries, while the services-producing sector accounted for 80.8%. The proportion employed in the goods-producing sector was 12.3% lower than the national average of 21.9%, while the proportion employed in the services sector was 3.5% higher. Source: http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca/rpt2011/XI-5-b.pdf Economic Growth and Decline by Industry (2006 to 2010) Top Five Industries on the Rise in Nova Scotia (1,000s of people) 1. Utilities (+133.3% from 1.8 to 4.2) 2. Professional, scientific and technical services (+29.5% from 18.3 to 23.7) 3. Agriculture (+23.4% from 4.7 to 5.8) 4. Construction (+19.3% from 26.9 to 32.1) 5. Information, culture and recreation (+18.3% from 16.4 to 19.4) Top Five industries on the Decline in Nova Scotia (1,000s of people) 1. Business, building and other support services (-17.5% from 28.6 to 23.6) 2. Manufacturing (-16.6% from 39.2 to 32.7) 3. Other services (-10.2% from 20.6 to 18.5) 4. Forestry, fishing, mining, quarrying, oil and gas (-4.0% from 12.5 to 12.0) 5. Trade (-3.4% from 79.0 to 76.3) Source: Statistics Canada. Table 282-0061 - Labour force survey estimates (LFS), employment by economic region and North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), annual (persons) DID YOU KNOW? Halifax is closer to Europe than any other east coast port of call. Manufacturing Sales In 2010, the top three manufacturing industries in Nova Scotia by sales were food (20.2% or $1,983.50 million), plastics and rubber products (12.5% or $1,220.50 million) and transportation equipment (7.7% or $759.1 million). Source: http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/cst01/manuf33d-eng.htm Uncollected Taxes Indicates the ability of taxpayers to pay taxes on time and may indicate the strength of collection policies in place and the economic strength of a municipality. It is calculated by dividing total uncollected taxes at year end by total tax levy. In 2010, the percentage of uncollected taxes was the highest in the Towns of Springhill (40%), Canso (22%) and the Municipality of Inverness (18%). The percent of uncollected taxes was the lowest in the Towns of Hantsport (1%) and Parrsboro (1%). The average for all municipalities was 9%. Source: http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/indicators/public/AdHocSelection.asp