Recommendations

The Women's Reference Group developed 20 recommendations that relate to training criteria for public funded programs. Training programs must provide marketable and transferable skills that lead to progressive learning and access to meaningful employment. Emphasis should be on work-related training in emerging knowledge-based and technical occupations, apprenticeship, and occupations with reasonable career "laddering" potential. They should be available to all women who need them, whether they are underemployed, unemployed, social assistance recipients, new immigrants, or women who wish to move into trades, technical, and operational work.

The linkages between these training programs and the established educational system - such as school boards, colleges, and universities - must be developed and enhanced. The availability of unique learning experiences that are accredited and sequential is necessary to change women's economic situation and limited participation in the labour market. A framework of national training standards would ensure a move toward coherence in a transition system. Consultation with women is necessary to ensure that transitional training is provided in a comprehensive manner.

Aboriginal peoples making transitions

Pam PAUL

A summary of this report appears in chapter 3, in The perspective of aboriginal peoples.

People with disabilities making transitions

Cameron CRAWFORD and Michael BACH, The Roeher Institute

People with disabilities experience and often require unique or creative circumstances to obtain equitable opportunities for access to and participation in employment. Public policy formulation and implementation, specialized professional competencies and subsequent services, relevant and contemporary labour market information, and a changed orientation to the meaning of "client-based, disability-specific supports" are critical elements for review and change if disabled persons are going to achieve labour force representation.