Most of Nova Scotia Suffers Deprivation

The Department of Internal Services has concluded that much of Nova Scotia is deprived in terms of employment, education, and income.

A map, created by the department, shows serious levels of material deprivation across the province. The Nova Scotia NDP discovered the map as part of a freedom of information request. 

The NDP leader says, “The McNeil Liberals continue to turn away from the realities of people’s lives.” Gary Burrill said, “While people are struggling to find a place to live and to keep from going under, the Premier continues to congratulate his government on what he sees as an economic job well done.”

The government explains “material deprivation” is based on the unemployment rate, adults with less than high school education, and average income. 

The attached map shows communities on a scale where 1 is the least deprivation and 5 is the most. The majority of the province is in the 3-5 range.

Burrill says, “People aren’t asking for the moon, but they have a right to ask for enough.” Burrill added, “When this is beyond the reach of so many in our province, the Premier needs to address this urgent situation squarely.” 

The map shows the Halifax area to be in the best position, much of the municipality in level one (beige).

Cumberland is largely divided with the south at level five (dark blue), central at level four (medium blue), while the north is in the turquoise third tier.

The NDP solution calls for legislation to increase the minimum wage to $15 by 2020, establish rent controls, and improve access to post-secondary education.

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