The following statement was issued today by Loyola Sullivan, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Employee suggestion initiative

I rise today to report on the tremendous response government has received to its employee suggestion initiative.

On February 10, 2004, government advised our front-line workers that they would have an opportunity to provide � anonymously � their ideas for savings, efficiencies, and modernizing of government operations. Government established a toll-free telephone number and created a Web site through which employees could submit suggestions.

During the pre-budget consultations, many participants urged government to consult with those who directly deliver our programs and services. We wanted to ensure that our front-line employees had a chance to participate in the decision-making process as we prepared for program review and the budget.

Without doubt, workers welcome the employee suggestion initiative. To date, over 900 submissions, containing thousands of suggestions have been received. Employees have demonstrated a real concern for the fiscal affairs of our province and for the provision of public services. The suggestions cover a diverse range of topics. We have received input on the need to examine government policies on cell phones, vehicle use, purchasing, travel, and human resource management, to name just a few. Employees have also provided advice on expenditure reduction options, workplace efficiency, improvements to services for the public, and mechanisms to increase revenues.

I extend my thanks to all those who have taken the time to submit a suggestion. It would be impossible to list every one, but I want to assure our valued public service that we welcome their input. The toll-free line and on-line form will remain in effect until the end of March 2004, and I encourage employees to continue to forward suggestions to us.

As stated in the Speech from the Throne, no government has all the answers. Good government is about developing solutions through constructive partnerships. I have instructed my officials to examine every suggestion and those that are prudent will be considered for implementation.

2004 03 23                                        2:00 p.m.