Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for Labour met in Ottawa this week to discuss Canada’s economic situation, the evolution of the modern workplace and steps to support Canada businesses and workers.
Over the course of the meetings, the ministers participated in panel presentations and roundtable discussions. Among the issues discussed were temporary foreign workers, emerging workplace trends, international labour activities, and occupational health and safety, including pandemic planning in the workplace.
“It was an informative and productive opportunity to learn what's happening across the country regarding labour issues and the economic trends,” said Honourable Janice Sherry, PEI Minister responsible for Community Services, Seniors and Labour. “This helps to provide a context for Prince Edward Island and where we fit. Our challenges are very similar to other provinces and we can learn from their experience as we continue to draft legislation and develop policies.”
The ministers also had discussions on ways to support Canada’s economic recovery and future prosperity. The ministers committed to examine opportunities for future collaboration in the following areas: the protection of severance and termination pay; health and safety programs, policies, tools, and research; and the use of technology in assisting businesses achieve compliance across Canada.
The ministers discussed the International Labour Organization’s Convention on Occupational Safety and Health, as well as the Convention on Forced Labour.
“It was very encouraging to know that there are great examples of collaboration across jurisdictions and between the provincial and federal government which is important when dealing with employment standards and ensuring that employers are providing safe work conditions for their employees,” said Minister Sherry. “In addition, we have to be mindful of the new trends around younger workers, rapidly changing technologies and older workers. All of these new trends make it imperative that we remain adaptive and flexible as employers.”
Minister Sherry also notes that the issue of Human trafficking is one we have to pay close attention to as we develop immigration strategies and legislation around migrant workers.
The ministerial meeting occurs every year, and an agreement was made to hold a teleconference in September 2010 to discuss next steps with regards to intergovernmental collaboration. The labour ministers’ meeting provides a forum for discussion of key public policies and exploration of opportunities for cooperation on joint projects and initiatives.