Transgender Nova Scotians will soon have gender reassignment surgery funded by the province. Government committed today, June 12, that the surgery will be covered by MSI.

Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson said he came to the decision after reviewing the medical evidence and the policies of other provinces that fund this procedure.

"Based on the values and direction this government has taken on the issue, I am happy today to confirm funding for gender reassignment surgery," said Mr. Wilson. "This morning I met with members of the LBGTI community to communicate this decision.

"Last November, the province enshrined transgender rights in legislation. We don't permit others to discriminate against transgender people, and the funding of this surgery is an issue of dignity, and equality for transgender Nova Scotians. I have tremendous respect for the LGBTI community and would like to thank them for their activism on this issue."

Section 4.8 of the MSI Physician's Manual that prohibits funding for this surgery will be immediately removed.

Nova Scotia will be the eighth Canadian province to cover gender reassignment surgery.