REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN, July 9, 2008- The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, will meet with reservists at the 734 Regina Communication Squadron to highlight recent initiatives under the reinstatement strategy for the Canada Reserve Force.
"Reservists deserve our ongoing support while they serve our country," said Minister Blackburn. "The federal government is committed to supporting the Canadian Forces with the same passion and dedication that we use to stand up for Canada."
Legislation adopted in April 2008 provides job protection for reservists who work for employers in federally regulated industries and the federal public sector. It also provides relief to student reservists who have loans under the Canada Student Loan Program. The reinstatement strategy for reservists was announced on January 8, 2008.
Later today, Minister Blackburn will also be visiting Access Communications Co-operative Limited, to present a certificate in recognition of the company's ongoing efforts and commitment to the principles of employment equity.
"The Government of Canada is promoting diversity within the context of a sound and solid Canadian society," said Minister Blackburn. "Access Communications Co-operative Limited has demonstrated its commitment toward inclusive and diverse workplaces."
According to results identified in the 2007 Employment Equity Act Annual Report, within a workforce of over 170 employees, Access Communications Co-operative Limited has a significantly higher representation of Aboriginal peoples than the Canadian labour market availability. The report, which describes the progress towards a more representative workforce achieved by federally regulated employers, was tabled in the House of Commons on June 17, 2008.
The Regina visit is part of a three-city tour that takes Minister Blackburn to Ottawa, Regina and Toronto to highlight the Government of Canada's recent labour initiatives.
For more information, please visit Labour.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Michael Winterburn
Office of Minister Blackburn
819-953-5646
Media Relations
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
