Town of Truro Renews Affirmative Action Commitment

HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION--Town of Truro Renews Affirmative Action Commitment

Residents have renewed confidence that the Town of Truro is committed to building a workplace free of discrimination.

Officials renewed the town's affirmative action agreement on Thursday, March 31, with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission at a signing ceremony in Halifax.

"For the Town of Truro this commitment is very important," said Michael Baker, Minister responsible for the Human Rights Act. "As Nova Scotia embarks on its efforts to encourage immigration, all of our communities need to be supporting the values of respect and inclusion."

The affirmative action agreement commits staff and officials in the town to identifying and eliminating barriers that may deny equal employment opportunities to women, visible minorities, aboriginal people and people with disabilities.

"The Town of Truro has recognized that actions such as diversifying its staff enhances and increases the value of the resources and services it provides to the community," said Lance Hale, vice-chair of the Human Rights Commission.

It is the second time officials from Truro have signed an affirmative action agreement. The town's original agreement expired in 2004.

"Council believes the goals and objectives identified in the agreement are both important and attainable," said Truro Mayor Bill Mills. "As part of our strategic process, council will be annually measuring its success in implementation and results."

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission currently has affirmative action agreements with 30 private and public sector groups in the province.

"Affirmative action policies recognize that women, people with disabilities, gays and lesbians, racially visible people, African Nova Scotians and First Nations people face disadvantages," said Mayann Francis, CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. "By renewing this agreement, the town has reaffirmed its commitment to promote equity and inclusion for its citizens."