Statement of belief
We firmly believe that the key to successful transitions is the acquisition of skills through training, and that career "laddering" opportunities are enhanced for employees who have a right to training opportunities. It is an employer's responsibility to offer training opportunities.
Ways to increase employer-based training, while making it relevant to both the operations of organizations and their employees, are being debated in Canada. We support developments in this area in which employers and workers, either in an individual organization or at a sectoral level, engage in joint management of training activities. The establishment of training trust funds is a promising development. The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) in partnership with Zehrs Markets in Cambridge, Ontario is funding the Clifford Evans Training Centre; the Sectoral Skills Council is another example.
Employers have a responsibility to provide the training that their employees need to carry out their tasks and enhance their career prospects within the organization. As large employers, governments must also be committed to the training of their employees. However, in their regulatory and service functions, governments also bear the responsibility for training in basic skills and literacy and providing those who need to gain access to training with support services. Thus, with respect to training, we advocate a clear delineation of responsibilities between employers and public authorities.
Equity awareness and implementation
Employment equity is a fundamental and important principle to use in planning, developing, and managing any productive workforce and economy. As a policy, it can achieve well-being for all and shape a new labour market.