Minister Leitch Highlights Economic Action Plan 2013 in address to Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

EDMONTON, Aug. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Dr. Kellie Leitch, Canada's new federal Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, addressed members of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce on the Government of Canada's commitment to jobs, growth and long-term prosperity.

"Canada's Economic Action Plan 2013 is a plan for creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity while keeping taxes low," said Minister Leitch. "Since the recession, our economy has created almost one million net new jobs. But we also have to find ways to fill the jobs that are already available."

She emphasized the new federal measures that address skills shortages. "Economic Action Plan 2013 takes a bold, new approach to skills and training. The Canada Job Grant will take skills-training choices out of the hands of government and put them where they belong - in the hands of employers".

In her comments to the Chamber, Minister Leitch discussed her new role as federal Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women. She highlighted that women and other under-represented groups in the labour market can get better training to help address such skills shortages. She also spoke about how the Labour Program's Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service help avert costly work stoppages. When talking about health and safety, Minister Leitch noted the economic cost of workplace accidents—$19 billion annually— and emphasized that workplaces are most productive when employees work in safe and healthy work environments.

The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is the official voice of business in the Capital Region. With nearly 3 000 business and corporate members, this is the largest chamber in Alberta.

SOURCE: Employment and Social Development Canada