I cannot understand why it is so difficult to get in touch with the appropriate governmental department(s) when you have a complaint and/or question. I began my search today and have just ended a call with the TENTH person I’ve asked for help regarding this matter. NO ONE SEEMS TO KNOW ANYTHING. I was in luck though; they’ve all been very friendly so I was pleasantly surprised with that. It’s just no wonder about things like listeriosis when they say it’s a problem with safety checks. More departments? I don’t know about that….half of the ones we have don’t even know which department is responsible for what-it is really crazy!!!! I was even directed to the poor lady at the HRM info line (ya, the one you call for the bus schedule AND the same one you call when you find a lost dog or cat AND the same one you call with a myriad of other things). I knew I was in trouble when I was given that number. So, I’ve been to food safety, agriculture, fire marshal, reg. fire service, hrm info, police and fire inquiries, by-law dept., health agency, restaurant regulations, dept. of general health and finally, I am waiting for the occupational health and safety to return my call. Holy crap!
This article appears in Sep 25 – Oct 1, 2008.
You should try the NS Office of the Ombudsman at 424-6780. They are pretty good at knowing where your complaint needs to be directed. It may even be that your complaint needs to be directed to them!