RECOMMENDATIONS MADE ON IMPROVING WORK OPPORTUNITIES

The Commission on Improving Work Opportunities for Saskatchewan Residents released its final report today, along with 25 recommendations designed to help address challenges faced by some Saskatchewan workers.

"In this fall's Throne Speech our government clearly stated our commitment to creating a province in which no one is left behind on the path to opportunity. These recommendations will contribute to achieving that vision," Labour Minister David Forbes said.

The commission, chaired by V. Lynne Pearson, Dean of the College of Commerce at the University of Saskatchewan, was appointed in February 2005 to make recommendations to improve access by part-time and vulnerable workers to employment income, employment benefits and work opportunities in Saskatchewan. Other commission members were Fred Cuddington, an experienced mediator/arbitrator, and Deb Thorn, CEO of Temple Gardens Mineral Spa Inc. (1992).

The commission released a consultation paper last June, held public meetings in Regina and Saskatoon, and invited written submissions.

"I appreciate the work of the commission members, as well as the input from the many individuals and organizations who took time to share their insight and experience with the commission," Forbes said.

"I look forward to working with my colleagues to determine how to best respond to this report. I am happy to announce that we will begin this process immediately by working with experts regarding the extension of supplementary medical and pension benefits to vulnerable workers, as the commission recommended in its report."

Electronic copies of the report are available at: http://www.labour.gov.sk.ca/commissionreport.

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For More Information, Contact:

Nadine Sisk Labour Regina Phone: (306) 787-4156