Series GR-3438 - GIS slide binder

Government Information Services (GIS) was created in 1983 as a system of modified centralization for the management and implementation of its information services. A central, communications planning-and-approval system was progressively developed under a Communications Counsel. The system drew its authority to review and approve advertising, publications and news releases from Cabinet policy and Treasury Board directives. The budgets of 19 ministries for advertising and publications were consolidated in one vote with the Communications Counsel as signing and contracting authority. The branch reported to the Ministry of Provincial Secretary and Government Services The function of GIS was to plan, coordinate and implement government communication policy and programs. It also provided general advertising and information services for all ministries, and operated government production centres. GIS prepared and supervised press releases, speeches and other editorial documents required by government and the ministries. It also produced photographs, graphic designs, displays, audio-visuals and video productions. On behalf of the ministries, GIS supervised a wide range of information projects on such subjects as law reform, pest control, forest fire prevention, waste management, pension information and consumer information. During 1986/87 the branch was downsized by 50 percent and in August of 1987 it was reassigned to the Office of the Premier. Responsibility for ministry programs was assumed by each ministry through their public information officers.