Toronto, Ontario, September 10, 2012—Today, federal, provincial and territorial labour ministers met to discuss current and emerging labour issues and share best practices on the continued well-being of workers and employers. The annual meeting was co-hosted by the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, and the Honourable Linda Jeffrey, Ontario’s Labour Minister.
“The Government of Canada remains focused on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity, and we understand the vital link between healthy and productive workplaces and our economy,” said Minister Raitt. “By coming together at events like today’s to share insights and best practices, we will continue to build on our successes and maintain Canada’s reputation as a great place to work and do business.”
“Workplace practices and policies are strengthened by collaboration and dialogue between all levels of governments, employers and unions,” said Minister Jeffrey. “We are engaging with our counterparts and cooperating to better address today’s issues and to prepare for tomorrow’s challenges.”
As part of a commitment made at the 2011 meeting to directly engage youth about their workplace safety and rights, the labour ministers have jointly launched a national social media video contest. The “It’s Your Job!” contest aims to raise awareness by challenging secondary school students and young people from 18 to 24 years of age to create videos demonstrating the importance of workplace safety and rights. For more information on the contest, including rules and prizes, please visit www.youtube.com/yourjobvotretravail or www.labour.gc.ca.
The ministers also participated in presentations and roundtable discussions regarding today’s workplaces and labour policy. Specific topics included workforce diversity; international labour issues; worker protection; and occupational health and safety, including the need to address psychological health and safety in the workplace.
The labour ministers’ meeting provides an annual forum for discussion of key public policies and exploration of opportunities for cooperation on joint projects and labour initiatives. Throughout the year, ongoing work continues through the Canadian Association of Administrators of Labour Legislation (CAALL). Established in 1938, CAALL is an association of federal-provincial-territorial departments of labour and heads of occupational health and safety agencies.
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This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Media Relations
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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Bill Killorn
Director, Communications
Office of Minister Jeffrey
416-326-7708
Media Relations
Ontario Ministry of Labour
416-326-7405
