Remembrance Day is Different and Special

Remembrance Day is a time to pay respects and honour those who have served and those who continue to serve. It was never intended as a ‘holiday’.

Over the years attendance at cenotaph ceremonies has declined since the end of World War II, partly because the number of veterans has also diminished.

However, many communities report that more and more people have been taking part in the day’s services, particularly young people who are showing true respect and gratitude for the sacrifices offered in the name of freedom.

Remembrance Day is somewhat unique when compared to statutory holidays in Nova Scotia. The Remembrance Day Act outlines which businesses can operate on November 11, includes rules about holiday pay, and exempts certain businesses from the rules altogether.

To help business owners and their employees observe this day while complying with provincial legislation, a new online tool has been created to clarify how the Remembrance Day Act applies to businesses.

Jill Balser, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration says, "This new online tool will provide support and clarity to businesses and employees while helping them plan how best to pay their respects.”

Louis-Philippe Gauthier, Senior Director, Legislative Affairs, Atlantic, Canadian Federation of Independent Business says, “Legislation can often be complex and challenging for small businesses to understand. And in the case of Remembrance Day, small businesses want to make sure they are doing the right thing for their employees, their customers, and for those who have served our country.”

The new online tool is available at https://remembranceday.novascotia.ca/.

For more information on the Remembrance Day Act, go to https://novascotia.ca/lae/employmentrights/remembrance.asp.

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