Executive Council
Human Resources, Labour and Employment
June 23, 2009
Province Hosts Successful Council of
the Federation Symposium
on Labour Force Participation
Today in St. John�s, over 70 delegates attended the
Council of the Federation (COF) Symposium on Labour Force Participation
to share best practices and discuss a variety of approaches to improve
labour market participation in today�s challenging economy.
"To improve the country�s productivity and economic
well-being, it is important for all provinces and territories to work
together to increase labour market participation," said the Honourable
Danny Williams, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. "Today was an
excellent opportunity for delegates to explore the fundamental labour
market challenges that face our country and share learnings and best
practices. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador was pleased to
host this dynamic and informative symposium."
The focus of the symposium was to examine policy
directions to reduce barriers and disincentives to work, foster
effective government and community partnerships, and provide labour
market supports for vulnerable groups during challenging economic times.
"We need to support all people to participate fully in
the work force," said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Human
Resources, Labour and Employment. "This means improving access to
the programs and services they need in order to succeed now and in the
future. This is particularly significant for residents living in or
vulnerable to poverty who face higher barriers and require additional
labour market tools and services. I was pleased to have the opportunity
to share our experience and the approaches we have taken to support
people to join the labour force through our Poverty Reduction Strategy,
which is considered a model throughout Canada because of its long-term,
comprehensive approach to addressing poverty."
The Council of the Federation comprises the 13
provincial and territorial Premiers. It was created in 2003 as a forum
for premiers to collaborate to strengthen the Canadian federation by
fostering a constructive relationship among the provinces and
territories.
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