However, the CLFDB was disbanded in 1999. Several provinces created similar structures, and in some provinces, the concept was expanded through the creation of networks of local boards. For example, Ontario established the Ontario Training and Adjustment Board (OTAB) in 1993, and a network of local boards. The OTAB was disbanded in 1995, but the local board network continues to exist.

Sector Councils: Also launched in the early 1990s, Sector Councils bring together representatives from business, labour, education and other professional groups. Councils have been involved in developing voluntary occupational and skills standards, training, school-towork transitions, LMI and career information. Building strong sector partnerships is a key aspect of the federal skills agenda. According to a government release, support for exemplary councils will double from $60M by 2007. We examine the role of Sector Councils in more detail in section 6.4.

Essential Skills: This initiative of the federal government helps workers, employers, and literacy practitioners in assessing learning needs and developing tailored approaches to workplace literacy and essential skills. The goal is to enhance worker skill levels. The initiative does this by increasing awareness of Essential Skills, supporting the development of assessment tools and curriculum. However, it does not fund the cost of delivering essential skills training programs.

Workplace Skills Strategy: The WSS, announced by the federal government in 2004, has three main goals: to help Canadians be the best trained most highly skilled workers in the world; to build a labour market that is flexible and efficient; to respond to the needs of employers to make Canadian workplaces more productive and innovative. The government has announced three
early initiatives.

• Workplace Skills Initiative – WSI will promote and test new and innovative approaches to skills development; encouraging employers to invest in the skills of their employees, and informing labour market policy about what works.
• Workplace Partners Panel – WPP is made up of business and labour champions. The WPP will help galvanize leadership in addressing workplace skills issues, providing increased investment and raising awareness around best practices.
• Trades and Apprenticeship Strategy – This strategy will help focus national attention on the challenges skilled trades are facing. Will work closely with the provinces and territories and stakeholders to address these challenges.