Released on January 21, 2009
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris meets today with Federal Labour Minister Rona Ambrose and his provincial and territorial counterparts to discuss a range of issues.
Canada's labour ministers are meeting at Lake Louise, Alberta. The gathering, chaired by Ambrose and Alberta Employment and Immigration Minister Hector Goudreau, concludes on Friday.
"Canadians expect governments to work together to address the challenges our country is facing," Norris said. "This meeting is an excellent opportunity to share experiences and discuss how we can assist workers and employers to succeed in today's economy."
The ministers will discuss how the current economic situation in Canada is affecting the workplace. Norris said it is particularly important for governments to ensure that workers affected by the economic slowdown have access to training programs.
During this fiscal year, the Government of Saskatchewan has made a significant investment in training, including implementing a $90 million skills development agreement with the federal government.
Also on the agenda at the meeting is a presentation on the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, Canada's national hazard communication system. The key elements of the system are cautionary labelling of containers and worker education and training programs.
The ministers will also share best practices in the area of ensuring work-life balance and improving labour standards co-operation with First Nations communities. In addition, they will consider approaches to protecting temporary foreign workers, vulnerable workers and young workers.
The labour ministers meet every year to promote co-operation among governments.
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For more information, contact:
James Parker
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3370
Email: james.parker@gov.sk.ca