MEDIA RELEASE: NSGEU Launching Province-Wide Campaign Against Government’s Careless Cuts

A new province-wide marketing campaign highlights the impacts from the Houston government’s spring budget that has forced job reductions in the public service and the restructuring choices that weaken the public services that people rely on.

The campaign, created by the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU), presents a satirical perspective on the real life consequences that the premier’s ‘careless cuts’ have had on the services people depend on and the lives of those who deliver those services. The ‘Careless House of Cuts” highlights the government’s pattern of cutting first and understanding the consequences later.

“The careless nature of the cuts arises from the inability of cabinet ministers to explain the impact of the cuts on people and services,” said NSGEU President Sandra Mullen. “The government’s approach is creating uncertainty in workplaces across the province, and raises questions about the future of the services communities rely on every day.”

The campaign comes as workers in several government departments continue to receive news of staffing/FTE reductions, voluntary severance opportunities, and program changes.

“Every cut has consequences,” said Mullen. “Behind every position is a worker, a family, and a service that supports Nova Scotians. Fewer workers means less capacity to deliver the programs and services communities depend on.” Beginning Monday September 14, the campaign will feature advertising aimed at raising awareness about the nature of the careless cuts and the impact these cuts have on public services. The campaign’s creative concept uses tongue in cheek satire to compare the government’s approach to an over-the-top bargain salesman, promoting cuts without acknowledging the consequences. You can view the ad here.