October 25, 1999
(Executive Council)

SSP steering committee participates in workshop

The Central Region Steering Committee for the province's Strategic Social Plan (SSP) recently attended an Economic and Social Development Workshop in Gander. The steering committee consists of members of the 10 boards of health, education, economic development and representatives of the College of the North Atlantic, Federation of Municipalities and government. This committee is a partner with government working as a team to guide the implementation of the SSP in the central region and explore ways of engaging communities in economic and social development. To facilitate a better working relationship, steering committee members suggested an education session to inform the committee members in social development about economic development and vice versa.

Dave Curran, executive director of the Exploits Valley Economic Development Corporation and a member of the Central Region Steering Committee, gave a presentation on regional economic development and Barbara Case, manager of community development with the Department of Human Resources and Employment, conducted a session on how social and economic planning can be integrated.

Julie Bettney, Minister of Human Resources and Employment and lead minister for the Strategic Social Plan, is pleased to see that the Central Region Steering Committee understands the critical link between social and economic development. "Recognizing that social and economic planning must go together is a major step toward securing a strong, sustainable future for the people in the region," said Minister Bettney. "Employment is one of the key links between social and economic development. So, the work this steering committee is doing should prove beneficial to the province as a whole as we develop our Strategy for Jobs and Growth."

The Strategic Social Plan is bringing together government, regional health, education and economic development boards and community agencies to focus on innovative ways to address social and economic issues and involve communities in this development.

The Renewal Strategy for Jobs and Growth has entered into a consultation process throughout the province to identify ways to further the economic momentum the province is enjoying.

Media Contact: Catherina Kennedy Kelly, Strategic Social Plan, (709) 729-0168.

1999 10 25                   3:15 p.m.