This case was heard in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.

After the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture approved amendments to three licences and leases held by Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd., the Specters applied for judicial review of the Minister’s decision.

The Court determined that the appropriate standard by which to review the Minister’s decision was the standard of reasonableness. After reviewing the history of the matter, the Court held that the Minister had followed the correct procedures and had made a reasonable decision. The Court therefore dismissed the appeal.

To read related decisions, go to Specter v. Nova Scotia (Fisheries and Aquaculture), 2011 NSSC 266 (CanLII) and Specter v. Nova Scotia (Fisheries and Aquaculture), 2011 NSSC 333 (CanLII).