Report on Labour Market Framework Released

A comprehensive report on strengthening Nova Scotia's labour market framework is being released publicly today. The report contains a wealth of information on the province's changing labour market, and recommends an integrated framework so Nova Scotians have the tools they need to take advantage of jobs and opportunities in the 21st century. The report is also being sent to more than 230 organizations who helped shape it.

Key elements of the framework include: reliable and current labour market information; education, training and literacy upgrading; career and transition services; public and private investment; leadership from within government; and continuing consultation between partners in Nova Scotia's labour market.

"The ultimate goal is to help Nova Scotians who are looking for that first job -- or who have been out of work -- get into and succeed in the labour market," said Wayne Gaudet, Minister responsible for the Labour Market Development Secretariat. "There are no overnight solutions. This report is a solid building block to keep us moving in the right direction, based on the sound advice of everyone with an interest in the labour market."

The report, entitled Toward An Integrated Labour Market Framework, is the result of an extensive consultation undertaken by the Nova Scotia Labour Market Development Secretariat between October 1997 and March 1998. More than 340 individuals representing 235 organizations met in 15 locations throughout Nova Scotia to discuss what was and was not working, and to raise any other issues or interests related to the provincial labour market.

Gerrie Masters, who heads the Secretariat and led the consultation, plans immediate follow-up to put the recommendations and advice to work. "The Secretariat will immediately begin follow-up workshops and round-table discussions to elaborate on the report, set priorities for action, and begin the process of establishing networks of labour market partners."

The report is also being used to raise awareness among government, education and training institutions, the private sector and community organizations of the opportunities to improve the competitive advantage of Nova Scotia and Nova Scotians. This is to be achieved by working in partnership to support the performance of the province's labour market.

"The findings of this report have played a key role in our own strategic planning process," said Ray Ivany, president of Nova Scotia Community College. "Both employers and students are looking for a quicker response to labour market changes. The networks established through this report will help the NSCC work with communities to successfully adapt to the dynamics of the new economy."

A copy of the report and executive summary is available in the Nova Scotia Government Bookstore. Arrangements are also being made to place the materials on a new Labour Market Development Secretariat web-site.

A media backgrounder on the report is available by calling Communications Nova Scotia at 902-424-4492.