Minister Raitt delivers keynote address at Metropolis 2010
MONTREAL, March 21 /CNW Telbec/ - Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of Labour, marked the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Descrimination by delivering a keynote address at the 12th National Metropolis Conference. The theme of this year's national conference is "Immigration and Diversity: Crossroads of Cultures, Engine of Economic Development." Minister Raitt highlighted the Government of Canada's Racism-Free Workplace Strategy, which plays a key role in removing race-related barriers in the workplace.
"Together, we are taking action to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve their full potential and to contribute to Canada's prosperity," said Minister Raitt. "Our government is committed to supporting Canadian businesses that recognize the potential of inclusive workplaces, thereby taking advantage of great opportunities for growth and success."
The Racism-Free Workplace Strategy works with employers, unions, community organizations and other federal departments. The Strategy promotes fairness in the workplace and addresses discriminatory barriers to the recruitment, retention and advancement of Aboriginal peoples and members of visible minorities.
March 21 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which aims to increase awareness of the harmful effects of racism on an international scale. The Government of Canada is committed to fostering respect, equality and diversity.
The Labour Program is a partner of the Metropolis Conference, through the Racism-Free Workplace Strategy. The Labour Program develops, administers and enforces workplace legislation and regulations, including the Canada Labour Code, which covers industrial relations, health and safety and employment standards, and the Employment Equity Act. These laws cover federally regulated workers and employers.
For further information: For further information: (media only): Jocelyne Turner, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of Labour, (819) 953-5646; Media Relations Office, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, (819) 994-5559; This news release is available in alternative formats upon request
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