Report Released

A report designed to promote fair hiring practices for Black and Mi'kmaq lawyers was released today by Justice Minister Michael Baker.

Created by the Employment Equity Guidelines Committee, the report culminates several months of work by individuals representing the Black Lawyers' Association, the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society, the Nova Scotia Department of Justice, the Dalhousie Law School and students of the Indigenous Black and Mi'kmaq Programme. The committee was chaired by ombudsman, Douglas G. Ruck, Q.C.

The report puts forward a number of recommendations to help eliminate barriers to employment and promote the advancement of indigenous Black and Mi'kmaq lawyers. The report recommends that law firms doing business with government be required to develop and implement employment equity and affirmative action plans.

While the recommendations are supported by the majority of committee members there were concerns raised by government representatives. The concerns were regarding the practical application of numerical targets, particularly for smaller firms who may have difficulty committing to the hiring of any graduates within a specified time frame. As well, there are concerns that the number of available graduates may not permit firms to meet hiring targets.

"The different opinions are a reflection of the complexity of the issues faced by the committee," said Mr. Ruck. "The addendum to the report filed by the government representatives presents a different view with regards to the approach. It does not, however, question the goals and objectives of employment equity."

"It is obvious a great deal of time and effort has gone into this report," said Mr. Baker. "It's a complex issue. Naturally, there are differing opinions on how we can achieve the same goal. We all want workable, practical solutions."

"We will review the report, and its recommendations, and come forward with a plan for the future that will promote equality and equity for all Nova Scotians," said the minister.

Copies of the report are available online at www.gov.ns.ca/just/eelink.htm .

kjd September 6, 2000 2 :14 p.m.