PART VIII: CONCLUSION

The analysis and recommendations in this Brief have been made against the backdrop of the difficult and unpredictable economic situation that has already hit many women very hard. The rate of unemployment is increasing, and it is very difficult at this time to see where increasing investment in high technology is going to lead.

In the meantime, we are firmly convinced that it is the responsibility of industry and government to protect the people of Canada through retraining, redeployment and a system of life-long learning for all. We must have these basic guarantees, for with them we can use our energy and imagination to shape a world and reality that is our own, and that serves the best interests of Canadians. In this Brief, we have recommended a framework within which a just and creative national policy for Paid Skills Development Leave can guide the creation of an effective and relevant education system, as well as social and economic equality for Canadian women.