Day drives strong message of government restraint at OECD

OTTAWA, Nov. 15 /CNW/ - The Honourable Stockwell Day, President of the Treasury Board and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today concluded a trip to Venice, Italy, where he met with representatives of member countries of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to discuss improving public sector productivity as a key element in helping governments through the economic downturn and recovery.

"Governments around the world are dealing with the worst economic and financial crisis since the Great Depression," said Minister Day.  "But in every crisis there are opportunities for governments to become more efficient and innovative."

The meeting brought together ministers and senior officials from 38 OECD and non-OECD countries to discuss key issues in public sector management. Topics included how governments can continue to improve on and deliver public services while facing fiscal pressures, and what steps need to be taken to build trust with citizens by fostering transparency and openness.

As part of the conference, Minister Day led a session on making public service more effective and performance-oriented.

"There is genuine interest in the steps Canada has taken to navigate through the global downturn," said Minister Day.  "As other countries struggle to put their fiscal houses in order, Canada is already projecting a balanced budget. Through ongoing innovation, fiscal restraint and efficient spending, our government will continue playing a global leadership role as we emerge at the forefront of the global economic recovery."

For more information on the conference, please visit the OECD website at the following address: http://www.oecd.org/site/0,3407,en_21571361_45400858_1_1_1_1_1,00.html

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This news release is available online at: www.tbs-sct.gc.ca.

For further information:

Jay Denney Director of Communications Office of the President of the Treasury Board and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway [phone]

Media Relations Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat [phone]