Minister Leitch speaks to the Vernon Chamber of Commerce about the importance of strong labour relations and the need for more women on boards Français
VERNON, BC, Dec. 17, 2014 /CNW/ - Today, at a meeting of the Vernon Chamber of Commerce, the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, stressed the importance of strong labour relations and the inclusion of women on corporate boards, emphasizing the critical role they play in Canada's continued economic success.
The Minister noted that the Government of Canada supports and fosters collaborative labour relations through the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, which provides dispute prevention and dispute resolution assistance to trade unions and employers under the Canada Labour Code.
She also noted that an increased presence of women on boards makes sense for our workplaces because it contributes to business success and strengthens Canadian competitiveness.
The Labour Program protects the rights and well-being of both workers and employers by promoting safe, healthy, cooperative and productive workplaces. Through legislation, programs and services, it fosters good working conditions, constructive labour-management relations and discrimination-free workplaces.
Quick Facts
- Over the last five years, 94 percent of collective agreements within the federal jurisdiction were settled without a work stoppage. This is thanks, in part, to the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.
- The June 2014 report by the Government of Canada's Advisory Council for Promoting Women on Boards recommends that the public and private sectors in Canada aspire to see women attain 30 percent of all board positions over the next five years. The report provides a roadmap to make this happen. ll
Quotes
"By working with our stakeholders to foster strong labour relations and create economic opportunities for women, our Government is doing its part to ensure that our labour force is resilient, diverse and ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow."
– The Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women
"There are significant labour issues that have impacted our members, including labour shortages and the growing awareness around our future labour force needs. We're pleased the Minister has made time to consult with our members and the community prior to budget discussions in 2015."
– Jaron Chasca, President, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
Associated Links
Labour Program
Status of Women Canada
SOURCE: Employment and Social Development Canada
Andrew McGrath, Director of Communications, Office of the Hon. Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, P.C., O.Ont., M.P., Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, 819-953-5646, [email protected]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected]
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