Four National Women's Groups: CCLOW · CFWEC · CRIAW · NOIVMWC

A. Introduction

The four national women's groups who prepared this brief represent women from a wide range of backgrounds, regions and political viewpoints. (Some summary information on each organization is provided in Appendix A.) Historically, our interests have often been seen by others as quite different and even competing, but on fundamental issues such as those before the Standing Committee now, we speak with one voice.

As a nation, we face critical decisions. We must find a way to ensure a sustainable level of social and economic development that respects the fundamental values and needs of Canadians, in a demanding world. If Canada's social and economic development is to survive the impact of globalization, we need a strengthened social security system, and a comprehensive employment development strategy. Women's perspective and contributions are an essential part of addressing that challenge. We believe that the principles and recommendations in this brief will help to address these issues.

The Canadian social contract is based on the idea that people are valuable for more than their capacity to generate profit. As Canadians we share

• a sense of mutual responsibility that extends from the community to the global level;

• a national and international commitment to equality for women;

• a recognition of the fundamental right of all human beings to dignity, a decision- making role in their society, and the basic necessities of life;

• a growing understanding that our prosperity and well-being are closely connected with the health of the land, air, water and wildlife that surround us;

• an acknowledgment that we have obligations to the generations that follow us.

Recently, however, the Canadian government has been making decisions which tie us more closely to the socio-economic policies of other countries, particularly the United States. The Canadian approach to providing social and economic security is now in question because it is "not competitive" with practices in certain other countries, including those with minimal standards of living, environmental protection, or social services.

We have concerns about many of the proposals in the Green Paper. However, even if the government revises its proposals, they still mostly address adjustments in the current social security system. We also need to consider a longer-term view, and keep the door open for more fundamental changes. We have an opportunity to lay the groundwork for a future for Canada in which .

• jobs are adjusted to fit people, rather than the other way around - there would be flexibility in hours, responsibilities, location, etc.;

• essential social services are available to all Canadians, regardless of income

• consumption is no longer promoted for its own sake, and jobs are increasingly created in sectors that emphasize durability, conservation and recycling

• there is full equality for women from all backgrounds;

• people are enabled to stay in their own communities, and create community- based sources of employment and income, rather than chase across the country in pursuit of elusive and temporary jobs;

• the social value of women's work in caring for children and adults in the home is recognized and supported by society.