Minister Leitch highlights Government of Canada priorities at the Prince Albert Chamber of Commerce

PRINCE ALBERT, SK, Sept. 11, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Dr. Kellie Leitch, Canada's new federal Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, addressed members of the Prince Albert Chamber of Commerce on the Government of Canada's economic commitments, as well as workplace safety.

"Our Government remains focussed on its top priorities—jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity," said Minister Leitch. "We continue to work towards keeping Canada's labour force strong, healthy and competitive."

Minister Leitch highlighted measures introduced in the Economic Action Plan 2013 to address skills shortages, such as training to help under-represented groups in the labour market get jobs. She also emphasized how a number of measures to better connect Canadians with job opportunities will contribute to increased representation of women in all occupations, including skilled trades and non-traditional occupations.

"Having Minister Leitch here today to meet our business leaders makes what the Government is doing to strengthen our economy very real to us," said Randy Hoback, Member of Parliament for Prince Albert. "Initiatives such as the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program will help strengthen our agri-food and biofuel industries."

Minister Leitch also spoke about how aspects of the Labour Program such as the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service and Occupational Health and Safety help avert costly work stoppages and help decrease the $19 billion annual economic cost of workplace accidents.

"Our government believes that all Canadians have a right to work in a safe and healthy environment," said Minister Leitch.

The Prince Albert Chamber of Commerce is the voice of the business community in Prince Albert and district. Established in 1887, it is one of the oldest Chambers of Commerce in Canada. Its role is to enhance the economic and social environments in the region through involvement in activities, projects, and matters that are of importance to its members.

This news release is available in alternative formats on request.

SOURCE: Employment and Social Development Canada

(media only)

Jan O'Driscoll
Director of Communications
Office of Minister Leitch
819-953-5646

Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
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