#1. FARMWORKERS' DEATHS: CHARGES AGAINST DRIVER, VEHICLE'S CORPORATE OWNER
Attorney-General Wally Oppal announced Thursday that Harwinderpal Kaur Gill, the driver involved in a crash last year that killed three farmworkers, Sarbjit Kaur Sidhu, 30, Amarjit Kaur Bal, 52, and Sukhvinder Kaur Punia, 46, and injured 14 others in Abbotsford, has been charged with four counts, including driving without a proper license, driving in a vehicle in which seatbelts have been removed, driving without reasonable consideration for others on the road and driving in an improperly equipped vehicle.
Also, the corporate owner of the vehicle, RHA Enterprises, has been charged with the same offences.
The first court appearance in the case will take place March 27 in Abbotsford.
Just last month, WorkSafeBC announced that it had concluded its investigation into the accident and had submitted its report to the Coroner. It said it expected to participate in a Coroner's Inquest that would take place later this year. It said that the incident was also under investigation by the RCMP.
The WorkSafeBC investigation describes in detail what happened that morning. At approximately 6:20 a.m. on March 7, 2007, a 15-passenger van owned by RHA Enterprises Ltd., carrying 16 passengers (plus the driver) was traveling east on Highway 1 to Rainbow Greenhouses Inc. in Chilliwack. The vehicle collided with two transport trucks, rolled and landed on its roof on the highway median. It was raining heavily at the time, visibility was poor, and the roads were very wet.
The driver of the van held a BC class 5 driver's license; however the Motor Vehicle Act requires a commercial class 4 license to operate a commercial vehicle transporting more than 10, but fewer than 25 workers.
The investigation concluded that passenger overloading, poor tire maintenance, the lack of seatbelts, inadequate driver qualification, road conditions and vehicle instability all played a role in the incident.
WorkSafeBC said it was considering a penalty against the labour contractor who employed and transported these workers to farms in the Fraser Valley.
#2. CLOCKS MOVE FORWARD: SUNDAY, MARCH 9
British Columbians are reminded that daylight saving time will start this Sunday, March 9, and end November 2.
"British Columbians overwhelmingly supported aligning daylight saving time dates with the United States and other Canadian provinces," said Attorney General Wally Oppal.
Exceptions will be areas that have historically chosen to observe different time zones. The Peace River region does not observe daylight saving time, so its clocks will not change. The East Kootenay region observes Mountain Time and will continue to synchronize its clocks with Alberta.
The provincial regulation changing the dates British Columbia observes daylight saving time was approved in 2006 and took effect January 1, 2007. Clocks are moved ahead one hour at 2 a.m. on the second Sunday in March and move back on the first Sunday in November.
#3. PETER DHILLON APPOINTED TO SFU'S BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Indo-Canadian businessman Peter Dhillon has been appointed to Simon Fraser University's Board of Governors.
Dhillon is CEO of B.C. based Richberry Group, one of Ocean Spray Cranberries' largest shareholders and suppliers.
He is also an ambassador for the 2010 Olympics and was formerly on the Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee Board as Chairman of the audit committee. He was also a member of the board of Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation.
Dhillon is chair of the new Vancouver branch of Right to Play, which implements Sport for Development and Peace programs on a global scale to improve health and life skills for children and communities affected by war, poverty and disease.
He also serves on the board of directors of the Vancouver International Airport Authority and is a former vice chairman of the B.C. Ferry Corporation and the Agriculture Land Commission. He has been a board director with the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency and the VGH and UBC Hospital Foundation.
Dhillon received his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from UBC and earned an LL.B with honors in the U.K., from the University of Leeds.
#4. JANTA SEWAK DONATES $5,000 FOR SNACKS FOR SURREY STUDENTS
Realtor Jagmohan Singh presented a donation for $5,000 made through the Janta Sewak Society, a South Asian charity, to Surrey School District representatives Amanda Brown, a graduate of Kwantlen Park Secondary school and past participant in the School Meal Program, Sheila Renyard, Learning Support Teacher and Meal Program Coordinator at Kwantlen Park Secondary, and Liane Ricou, Manager, Business Development.
The donation will purchase a snack for each of 325 inner city elementary students participating in the district's Summer Camp program in 2008. For most participants, district camps provide the only camp experience they have had. The camps are instructed by highly trained arts and recreation specialists and give students a safe, supportive and fun place to go in the summer months where they can build self esteem, learn new skills and try new things. The camps are funded through local foundations and private donors. The snacks will be provided through the district's School Meal Program and will help hungry students stay focused and energized on each day's activities.
#5. FIRST NAGAR KIRTAN TO CELEBRATE SRI GURU RAVIDASS SABHA
What: First Nagar Kirtan (community parade) in Burnaby to celebrate Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver).
When: Saturday, March 15 at 10 a.m. Nagar Kirtan departs at 11 a.m.
Where: Shri Guru Ravidass Community Centre, 7271 Gilley Avenue, Burnaby.
The Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) is inviting everyone, including faith and community organizations, to display their community spirit and join in the Nagar Kirtan (community parade) planned for Saturday, March 15 in Burnaby. The Nagar Kirtan is expected to depart the Guru Ravidass Community Centre at 7271 Gilley Avenue in Burnaby at 11 a.m. and return to the community centre by 5 p.m.
Residents, businesses, community groups and families are encouraged to participate by walking along with the parade or by any other creative way that adds to the festivities on March 15.
The Nagar Kirtan is organized to celebrate the life and teachings of Shri Guru Ravidass, a mystical saint of the 14th century India. The celebrations are also organized to celebrate the silver jubilee year of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) and to express gratitude to everyone who has supported the organization through its 25 years of journey.
The Guru Ravidass Jayanti and the silver jubilee celebrations will start on Friday, March 14 and continue through Sunday, March 16.
To take part in these celebrations, their Holiness Shri 108 Sant Niranjan Dass and Shri 108 Sant Rama Nand of Dera Ballan (Jalandhar) have accepted the invitation to join in the celebrations, according to the organizers.
In addition, prominent pop singers from Punjab, Kanth Kaler, Amrita Virk and Lakhwinder (Lucky) Kumar, are expected to participate and perform in the celebrations.
Kirtan will be recited by Bhai Ranjit Singh, Bhai Mukhtiar Singh, and Bhai Harblass Singh. Dhadi Jatha of Kashmir Singh Kadar will also perform during the celebrations.
Street closures:
To safely accommodate needs of residents and participants, the following streets along the Nagar Kirtan route will be closed during the approximate time frames:
Beresford- between MacPherson and Gilley (Parade assembly): 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Gilley - between Kingsway and Rumble: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Rumble - from Gilley to Royal Oak: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Royal Oak - from Rumble to Imperial: Noon to 3 p.m.
Imperial - from Royal Oak to MacPherson: 1-4 p.m.
Mapherson - from Imperial to Beresford: 1-5 p.m.
Dorset- between Macpheson and Sellers: Noon-4 p.m.
Parking along the parade route will be restricted to "No Parking" between 8 a.m. and when the road reopens. Beresford Street parking restriction will start at 7 a.m. as this is the parade assembly area.
Float registration:
Community groups and organizations may participate by entering their floats, decorated vehicles, or by walking along the Nagar Kirtan with their banners with messages related to "peace, harmony, and unity". Registration forms are posted at www.gururavidasssabha.org. Deadline to register is March 7.
Shri Guru Ravidass Ji:
Shri Guru Ravidass Ji, born in the 14th century in India, was one of the prominent mystical saints who dedicated his life to promote brotherhood, peace, unity, and equality. Guru Ravidass had a vision of "Begampura"- a village without sorrows where everyone lived in harmony with one another and had their basic needs met.
Teachings and philosophy of Shri Guru Ravidass Ji have continued to inspire rich and poor and followers of different faith groups, including Sikhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Buddhism. Patrons of Guru Ravidass are celebrating this year as the 631st Guru Ravidass Jayanti year across the world.
#6. GRAND KAVI DARBAR AT INDIAN CONSULATE GENERAL
(Contributed)
The Consulate General of India in co-operation with the Hindi Literary Society of Canada, B.C., organized a 'kavi darbar' to promote "Kaumi Ekta Divas" and to salute the International Women's Day. Pushpalata Sharma, President of HLSC, said: "Through our literary activities we are trying to promote harmony, friendship and human dignity."
". She introduced the Master of Ceremony -who conducted the function. Mr.
Indian Consul General Ashok Kumar said: "The scriptures of Hindus and Sikhs are all written in poetic form. It transcends the boundaries of color, creed, religion and nationalities."
A variety of themes - romance, nationalism, spirituality, love, brotherhood and peace -were covered by the poets. Acharya Dwivedi introduced the poets: Nadeem Parmar, Dr. B.K. Singh, Ashok Bhargava, Hardev Sodhi "Ashk," Pushplata Sharma, Kanti Dwivedi, Jeevan Rampuri, Mohan Gill, Dr. Shams Jilani, Suman Sharma, Anand Jain, Archana Harit, Vinod Kanwal and Jitendra.
Gian Singh Kotli, an established community activist and scholar, read his poem which was published in a Kolkotta (Calcutta) newspaper Punjabi Desh Darpan on August 15, 1960. A young poetess, Disha Makhijani, won the admiration of the participants. Indian Deputy Consul Suresh Makhijani, who coordinated the function with Dwivedi, thanked the poets and guests.
#7. POETRY AWARD FOR ASHOK BHARGAVA
(Contributed)
Ashok Bhargava is the recipient of the World Poetry Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2008 for his outstanding contribution to mainstream and multicultural literature in B.C. The award presentation took place on Friday, February 29 in Alice MacKay Room at Vancouver Public Library (downtown).
Bhargava is originally from India. His poetry reveals individuality of people and cultures by giving shape and form to feelings, emotions and sentiments. Skillfully, he knits his thoughts into the fabric of his poetry to bridge gap between cultures.
Speakers at the function said Bhargava is a multi-lingual poet and author of four books of poetry who has expertly introduced a south Asian perspective to the B.C. literature and enriched it.
They said he has displayed not only dedication, commitment and professional approach to poetry but also exhibited a deep devotion to humanitarian work and a strong will to help other people through community services.
Bhargava and Bernice Lever were honoured for their contribution to the "fabric of Canadian culture, society and literature."
#8. 'ONCE IN A LIFETIME' BILL DEFEATED BY CONSERVATIVES, LIBERALS
NDP MP Peggy Nash (Parkdale-High Park) expressed regret this week that a majority of Liberals joined with the Conservative party to defeat her 'Once in a Lifetime' immigration bill, C-394.
"It's very disappointing," said Nash. "As is the case with any legislation, some MPs will have doubts and concerns, but I think it was a real betrayal to our immigration system and those who rely on it, to not even let this bill go to committee to be studied."
Nash made the case that her 'Once in a Lifetime' bill was very important in that it aims to reunite families and provide new Canadians with the help they need to thrive in this country.
"So many of Canada's communities were relying on this legislation, it enjoys large public support, and it's in large part why this was the fourth time that the NDP introduced it. The concerns that many Liberals and Conservatives raised were addressed throughout the debate, and yet they still refused to even let the bill be examined and debated in committee.
"Do they really think that someone's son or daughter is less needed or loved, because they happen to be 22 years old rather than 15 years old? If they really think this is the case or have legitimate issues with this piece of legislation, then how better to explore these issues than at a parliamentary committee? Instead, the Liberals and Conservatives decided to not even have that conversation. It's a shame and a missed opportunity for so many families."
#9. VANCOUVER QUADRA BY-ELECTION INFORMATION
The by-election in Vancouver Quadra will be the first time British Columbians will go to the polls under the new federal voting rules which require each voter to prove their identity and address in order to vote.
Advance polls are being held:
Friday, March 7, Saturday, March 8 and Monday, March 10 from noon to 8 p.m.
There are three options for identification and address. You can find details on the Elections Canada website www.elections.ca.
Voters who are not on the electors list can register and vote at the advance polls or on Election Day on Monday, March 17. Election Day polls are open 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
#10. REPORT SHOWS RICH GETTING RICHER, WOMEN GETTING POORER IN B.C.
A study released this week by the B.C. Federation of Labour shows that policies of the Liberal government have unfairly impacted women.
The Report, "Still Waiting For Justice: Provincial policies and gender equality in BC 2001-2008", was written by University of British Columbia Professors Gillian Creese and Veronica Strong-Boag.
"Whether it's employment standards, minimum wage rates, taxation, childcare or housing policies, this study shows the Campbell government has systematically disbanded agencies that were designed to help women at the same time they introduced policies that have trapped many women in poverty," says Federation Secretary-Treasurer Angela Schira.
"Women are paid less than men. They are going deeper into debt for their education than men. Women are bearing the brunt of the childcare crisis in the province. Tax changes have disproportionately impacted women and they are under-represented in the political arena," says the report's co-author Gillian Creese.
Three key areas of public policy are particularly detrimental to women: changes to public sector employment, especially in health care; changes to employment standards and minimum wages; and policies that limit access to affordable childcare.
"Even in retirement women are likely to have smaller pensions, fewer RRSP's and a lower standard of living," says co-author Veronica Strong-Boag. "Provincial policies have had a direct and clearly negative impact on women in the province."
The report recommends policy changes that would begin to undo some of the damage including: a $10 per hour minimum wage, a halt to the privatization of public services, pay equity and employment equity policies, accessible and affordable childcare, reinvestment in social housing and the re-establishment of the Ministry for Women's Equality.
"This report makes it clear that while the Campbell government slashed budgets and shut down agencies it was women who were hurt most," Schira adds. "As we celebrate International Women's Day, we need to draw attention to these backward policies and press the government to undo the damage."
#11. TAX REFUND WARNING: WHO'S PROTECTING YOUR PERSONAL INFO?
This time of the year many of us look forward to receiving a tax refund - large or small. Even though the number of taxpayers filing electronic returns is increasing, for some people unable to use this service and especially those in a hurry to process their returns, there are potential serious consequences should their personal information fall into the wrong hands.
The BC Crime Prevention Association (BCCPA) is raising concerns about consumers seeking assistance with preparation of their 2007 income tax returns. Beware of unqualified tax preparation services whose motive is to gather and fraudulently misuse their clients' personal information. Also, watch out for established tax preparation services who have no privacy policy in place and who are careless with the proper protection of information they acquire during the normal course of business.
In recent years, credit industry sources have noticed a significant rise in the number of identity theft cases in which the source of the compromised information is believed to be rooted in the failure of businesses to practice basic privacy principles or even to implement such a policy. The risk is greater when the business only appears at tax time.
As of January 1, 2004, all businesses in BC are required to have a privacy policy in place and comply daily with the need for reasonable security arrangements to protect taxpayer information from unauthorized disclosure, theft and access.
"This is a perfect storm scenario," says BCCPA Executive Director Valerie MacLean, "because eager taxpayers who qualify for a refund are often more focused upon what they will do with their refund than worrying about what will happen to their tax information should it fall into the wrong hands."
The BC Crime Prevention Association offers the following tips to encourage consumers to make better choices when choosing a business to prepare their tax return:
* Be wary of any individual or business offering to assist with tax preparation that has no documented history or proven experience in handling tax returns.
* Ask preparers what professional qualifications they have that are relative to the legitimate collection and processing of your information to the Canada Revenue Agency and ask to be shown documentary proof of these qualifications.
* Before volunteering any personal documents ask the business / preparer to show you their privacy policy. For larger businesses, someone will have been designated as the Privacy Officer.
* Ask how long your tax information will be retained and how it will be disposed of.
* Remember to order annually a free copy of your credit report from Equifax Canada (1- 800- 465 -7166) and Trans Union (1-866-525-0262) to ensure that there are no enquiries from credit grantors resulting from the theft of your personal and financial information.
To learn more crime prevention tips, visit www.bccpa.org.
#12. LARGEST EVER SLATE OF CHINESE CANADIAN CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATES
Prime Minister Stephen Harper this week introduced the group of candidates of Chinese origin who have been nominated to run for the Conservative Party in the next election. Speaking at the 25th anniversary gala dinner of the Chinese Canadian Conservative Association (CCCA), the Prime Minister said the party has never been represented by a larger or more talented group of candidates from Canada's Chinese community.
Harper said: "These candidates are highly accomplished Canadians in the areas of education, business, and medicine. Together they constitute the largest slate of candidates of Chinese origin to ever run for our party - an accomplishment I know we're all very proud of."
A total of six Conservative candidates of Chinese origin have been nominated to date: the sitting MP for Wellington-Halton Hills (ON), Michael Chong; the four-term MP for Dauphin-Swan River-Marquette (MB), Inky Mark; Wai Young in Vancouver South (BC); Alice Wong in Richmond (BC); C.S. Leung in Richmond Hill (ON); and Benson Lau in Scarborough-Agincourt (ON). The Prime Minister also noted the possibility of additional candidates of Chinese origin being nominated.
Harper spoke of the historic bond between the Chinese Canadian community and the Conservative Party. He thanked the CCCA for its role in fostering this relationship and for its contributions to the Canadian political process.
Harper said: "For a quarter century the Chinese Canadian Conservative Association has played an invaluable role in developing and promoting Conservative principles and policies. You're helping to strengthen Canadian society, and demonstrating the importance of political involvement to the next generation."
Harper concluded his remarks by paying tribute to Douglas Jung, the late Conservative MP who was the first Canadian of Chinese origin elected to the House of Commons. Jung was one of several Conservative parliamentarians who led the way toward political equality for all Canadians. Others include Canada's first female cabinet minister, Ellen Fairclough, the first Muslim MP, Rahim Jaffer, the first Japanese Canadian cabinet minister, Bev Oda, and the first black MP, Lincoln Alexander.
#13. REPORTS OF NEGLECT AT SENIORS' FACILITY HIGHLIGHT NEED TO ACT NOW
New Democrat MLAs blasted the Campbell government in the legislature this week for shoddy conditions at a seniors care facility in Maple Ridge.
"The Campbell government has known since last July the conditions at the Golden Ears Seniors Village are unacceptable. But it chose to turn a blind eye to seniors routinely subjected to deep neglect there. What excuse can the B.C. Liberals possibly have for failing to act when they were fully aware of the situation at this facility?" questioned Michael Sather, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows NDP MLA.
Maple Ridge resident Tina Vos recently observed her mother, a Golden Ears Seniors Village resident, had soiled her clothes but was put back in the same clothes after a clean-up. Vos says her mother's care has badly deteriorated since Retirement Concepts took over the facility. Last July, the Fraser Health Authority gave the facility a high hazard rating and found it to be non-compliant in every category. Documents obtained by the NDP show Golden Ears Seniors Village has one of the lowest staffing levels of anywhere in B.C.
"Serious funding shortages and a lack of oversight are creating deplorable conditions for seniors across B.C. And Tina Vos's mother isn't the only senior falling through the cracks as the Campbell government chooses to make excuses and hide its neglect," said Guy Gentner, NDP's critic for seniors.
Last year, the NDP revealed internal documents indicating the Campbell government has known for years seniors were being mistreated at Victoria's Beacon Hill Villa, another facility run by Retirement Concepts. Since then, residents in other facilities across B.C. have reported similar experiences.
"Families and seniors have had enough. They need the Campbell Liberals to ensure safe care, to enforce quality standards in a timely way and to create an independent seniors advocate who can work on behalf of the province's seniors," Gentner said.
The NDP is pressing the Campbell Liberals to adopt the Opposition's proposals to create an independent representative for seniors and to make assessment reports public so families know when their loved ones are being put at risk.
#14. LIBERALS: CONSERVATIVES WORSENING LABOUR SHORTAGE
The Conservative government's mismanagement of Canada's immigration system will contribute to a widespread shortage of workers in a broad range of occupations, said Liberal Immigration Critic Maurizio Bevilacqua.
"With declining domestic birth rates and an aging population, Canada is already facing critical skills shortages that will reach alarming levels unless we find a sustainable solution," said Bevilacqua. "Sensible and open-minded immigration policies are that solution."
Census data released Tuesday shows Canada's workforce is aging dramatically, prompting labour analysts to sound alarm bells about the economic fallout if shortages in the IT, skilled labour and health care sectors are allowed to worsen.
Bevilacqua explained that Canada cannot face these challenges unless the government makes immigration a priority.
"Statistics Canada predicts that between 2011 and 2015 all of our net labour force and population growth will come from immigration," said Bevilacqua.
"If we are to attract needed skilled labour and professionals from around the world, we must invest in our immigration system and realize that welcoming their immediate families is a vital part of making Canada an attractive or even viable destination."
Bevilacqua pointed out that previous Liberal governments have consistently raised immigration levels and in 2005, Prime Minister Martin allocated hundreds of millions dollars of new funding to streamline the immigration system and deal with the backlog of applications.
The previous Liberal government also launched the $263 million Internationally-Trained Workers Initiative as a first step in improving the recognition of foreign credentials and the integration of internationally-trained Canadians into the work force.
By contrast, the Conservative government is moving in the wrong direction on immigration, resulting in Canada accepting 10,500 fewer immigrants in 2006 than in the previous year.
"The first Conservative immigration initiative was to cancel hundreds of millions of dollars that the previous Liberal government had earmarked to deal with the application backlog, which has grown by more than 40,000 under Conservative mismanagement. Now, in the Conservative's most recent budget, they have only allocated $22 million to replace these deep cuts.
"The Conservative government fails to understand that immigration is necessary to fuel our economy," said Bevilacqua.
#15. FEDERAL NDP: BUDGET FAILS TO HELP NEW CANADIANS FILL WORKER SHORTAGE
On Wednesday, Statistics Canada released census data on Canada's workforce, concluding that it is older and aging faster. Without a proper strategy in place, many industries, such as high-tech, health care and skilled labour could face widespread worker shortages, said the NDP's Citizenship and Immigration Critic, Olivia Chow (Trinity Spadina).
"With 15 per cent of the Canadian workforce nearing retirement, this is an opportunity to open the doors to immigrants and encourage them to fill in the gaps," said Chow.
According to the Statistics Canada report, the average employee age was 39.5 in 2001 but increased to 41.2 in 2006.
"Canadians are aging and will be out of the workplace soon," continued Chow. "It makes sense to be prepared for this shortage by encouraging the immigration of young families, skilled workers, educated and professional immigrants into the country. Canada needs their skill sets and work experience."
The report also concluded that over half of the immigrants who arrived between 2001 and 2006 had a university degree. This was double the number of degree holders among the Canadian-born population and also much higher than the number among immigrants who arrived in 2001.
"Yet, in the 2008 budget, there was no new funding for bridging and mentorship programs so highly skilled immigrants can get their degrees recognized quickly and obtain Canadian work experience. There was no relief announced for immigrants and refugees struggling to make ends meet as they cannot find jobs that fully utilize their skills. While the Harper Conservatives are handing out tax cuts to big banks and big polluters, hard working Canadian families are being squeezed and left behind," said Chow.
#16. CONSERVATIVES SAY THEY SUPPORT WOMEN'S GROUPS ACROSS CANADA
Women's organizations across Canada will be able to improve the safety of at-risk Aboriginal women, immigrant and visible minority women, senior women, and women with disabilities thanks to an investment by the federal government.
Together, women from across Canada will work with municipal partners and local women's organizations to assess how safe their communities are for the targeted women's groups.
The announcement was made this week by Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages Josée Verner. Funding worth $1,934,732 will be invested in the following seven national women's organizations for projects which will empower women across Canada:
* $528,800 to the Women in Cities International / Femmes et villes international, for a project entitled Creating Safer Communities for Marginalized Women and Everyone;
* $479,798 to the Native Women's Association of Canada for a project entitled Violence Prevention Toolkit - Phase II;
* $358,600 to National Organization of Immigrant and Visible Minority Women for a project entitled Engaging Immigrant and Visible Minority Women in Leadership Roles in Canadian Society;
* $283,594 to the POWER Camp National / Filles d'Action for a project entitled Skills and Support: Mentorship/Training for Young Women in Marginalized Communities Across Canada;
* $170,000 to First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada for a project entitled Caring Across the Boundaries: The Circle of Collaboration;
* $88,550 to National Aboriginal Circle Against Family Violence for a project entitled Financial Skills for Aboriginal Women Starting Over; and
* $25,390 to the Canadian Council for Refugees for a project entitled Pathways to Gender Justice - Second Phase.
"These seven initiatives fulfill the goals of the Women's Community Fund - working toward the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of this country, starting at the grass roots level and reaching across communities, regions and the country," said Verner. "These projects will touch the lives of women who are often marginalized, and provide them with real opportunities and positive, life-changing results."
"Violence against women in cities is an ongoing concern," said Caroline Andrew, President of Women in Cities International / Femmes et villes international, "Our project will tackle this issue in all its forms - from sexual assault to abductions and criminal harassment, as well as fear of crime - on a large scale, ultimately benefiting hundreds of thousands of women and girls."
The projects being funded were approved under the Women's Community Fund of the Women's Program of Status of Women Canada. This Fund supports eligible organizations in carrying out projects at the local, regional and national level. To qualify, the initiatives must work toward the equality and full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.
Verner made the announcement at an Encounters with Canada gathering of young people. Encounters with Canada is the country's largest youth forum, bringing together young Canadians from different backgrounds to discover Canada through each other and to learn about Canadian institutions.
This funding is being announced, in part, to celebrate International Women's Week, March 2 to 8, with its highlight, March 8, International Women's Day. This year's theme, Strong Women, Strong World, refers not only to the empowerment of women but also to the importance of women as caregivers, educators, policymakers, activists, leaders, international peacemakers and stewards of the world's environment.
Status of Women Canada is a federal government agency working to promote the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.
For information on Status of Women Canada, visit http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/.
#17. MARCH IS RED CROSS DAY: MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM LAUNCHED
Every year, the Canadian Red Cross celebrates March is Red Cross Month across the country. In the Lower Mainland Region, the Red Cross is celebrating Compassion for Humanity in the month of March - recognizing the work of the Red Cross but also recognizing the compassion of the public to respond generously to humanitarian needs.
"March is Red Cross Month showcases the work of dedicated staff and volunteers who are improving the situations of people that need it most," says Baljinder Narang, member of the Red Cross Regional Council and the Red Cross South Asian Advisory Group. "Compassion for Humanity is how all of us are making a difference in our own community and around the world, whether it's volunteering or making a lasting financial contribution."
The Red Cross is recognized as a humanitarian organization that helps the most vulnerable in the world, but many people are unaware of how the Red Cross impacts their community locally. Here in the Lower Mainland, the Red Cross offers services in disaster response and emergency preparedness, water safety and first aid training, medical equipment loan service, violence and abuse prevention education, and global issues training and education to more than 280,000 residents a year.
With celebrations for March is Red Cross Month, the Canadian Red Cross Lower Mainland Region is launching the membership program, which allows the public to become more involved in the role of the Red Cross in their community. By signing up for membership, members can voice their opinion on the direction of the Red Cross and allow the Red Cross to remain responsive to community needs in the future.
"We hope the public will become Red Cross members today and support the humanitarian efforts of an organization that gives no discrimination in those we help," says Narang.
To learn more about the work of the Red Cross in your region, visit www.redcross.ca/lowermainland or to sign-up for membership to support the Red Cross, visit www.redcross.ca/membership.
#18. SURREY HOSPITAL ER: COAST CAPITAL SAVINGS GIFTS $250,000
Coast Capital Savings has contributed $250,000 to Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation's $15 million Emergency Centre Campaign. Coast Capital Savings has agreed to sponsor the waiting area of the new facility's Children's E.R., which is being designed to offer a safe and comfortable environment for both children and their parents.
"Coast Capital Savings has been giving to the hospital for as long as the Foundation has been around," says Foundation President / CEO Jane Adams. "The Foundation is thrilled to receive another substantial donation from such a valued partner."
"We are delighted to be able to contribute to the Children's ER," said Lloyd Craig, president and CEO of Coast Capital. "Investing in the health and wellness of children is also investing in the future of our community."
Surrey Memorial Hospital's current E.R. - the busiest in B.C. - was designed to handle about 44,000 visits a year but has instead been seeing close to 70,000 patients a year.
The new Emergency Centre, at triple the size of the current facility, will include a separate children's E.R., as well as a separate mental health and addictions area, an enhanced minor treatment unit, and an improved area for acute patients.
The B.C. government has committed to funding the essentials of a replacement to Surrey Memorial Hospital's current E.R. The Foundation's $15-million campaign will ensure the new Emergency Centre is state-of-the-art.
#19. WORKSHOPS FOR PARENTS OF TEEN DRIVERS A SUCCESS
The BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation's In the Driver's Seat workshop for parents of teen drivers has received excellent reviews from parent participants. Parents felt the time was well spent and came away feeling encouraged and more confident that they could actually help their teenagers to become smart and safe drivers.
Many parents are unaware of the actual risks facing their teenagers during the learning stages of their driving career. Car crashes are the number one cause of death among teenagers in B.C. and many parents don't realize that they can help their teenager become a safer driver simply by getting involved.
Young drivers aged 16-20 represent only 6.5 per cent of the driving population but account for 13.4 per cent of those involved in car crashes. Even more shocking is that 16-19 year olds have a fatality rate more than four times that of drivers aged 25-34, and nine times that of drivers aged 45-54.
It's not hard to understand when one considers the general inexperience of a new driver. Without practice and guidance this combination can be a dangerous mix when it comes to making a split-second decision in a life or death situation.
Being the parent of a young driver can be really frightening, but research indicates that car crashes involving young drivers can be reduced by up to 1/3 when parents take an active role in their teenager's driving education.
According to Dave Eberwein, Principal of Burnaby South Secondary School, which hosted a workshop last September, the workshop was an excellent way of including parents in the school. Over 30 parents of students in Grades 10, 11, and 12 attended and were presented with excellent information.
"Some of the information was even surprising, but all of it was useful," says Eberwein. "Probably the most important advice given was making sure parents stayed involved in their children's lives, especially with regards to driving safety. I wholeheartedly recommend that secondary schools and their PACs consider bringing this evening workshop to their school community."
Last spring the Foundation released the results of their Young Drivers Study, which indicated that parental role modeling has a powerful influence on the development of the driving behaviours of their children. Those surveyed said their parents, and primarily their fathers as the most significant influence on their driving behaviours.
The workshops, held at high schools and BCAA centres around the province, are designed to help parents understand the facts and risks facing teen drivers and their passengers, and to provide parents with the knowledge, tools and resources to manage their teenagers driving education.
Upcoming driver's seat workshops:
* March 11: Vancouver / Kerrisdale, 7-9 p.m. at Point Grey Secondary School - 5350 East Boulevard. To register, call: 604-268-5845.
* March 12: Surrey, 7-9 p.m. at Panorama Ridge Secondary School -13220 64th Avenue. To register, call: 604-595-8890.
#20. CANADA MAKES PROGRESS IN DEALING WITH TERRORIST FINANCING
Finance Minister Jim Flaherty said this week that a report released by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) shows Canada has made steady progress in combatting money laundering and terrorist financing since an assessment made in 2007.
"The FATF evaluation was done eight months ago, and we have made considerable progress since that time to identify and shut down this criminal activity," Flaherty said. "When the actions the government has taken recently are fully implemented, Canada will be compliant with virtually all of the FATF's Recommendations."
Flaherty said the FATF report shows Canada has a solid regime in place in terms of legal structure, law enforcement powers, international cooperation and anti-terrorist-financing standards.
"This is consistent with the very positive assessment of Canada's financial sector released by the International Monetary Fund earlier this month," said Flaherty.
The FATF notes that amendments to the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act and related regulations address the deficiencies it identified in the June 2007 report.
"We will be relentless in our efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, and strengthening the Canadian regime is key," Flaherty said.
Flaherty noted Budget 2008 provides $10 million over two years for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and the Canada Revenue Agency's Charities Directorate to bolster existing capacities to combat terrorist financing.
"Our government is committed to giving our law enforcement agencies the tools and resources they need to tackle crime," said Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day. "That's why we are investing $400 million to support the provinces and territories in recruiting 2,500 new front-line police officers."
The FATF is an international body that develops and promotes policies to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
A summary of the report is available on the FATF website at
www.fatf-gafi.org. The full report will be posted on the FATF website in mid-March.
#21. LIBERALS ACCUSE CONSERVATIVES OF UNDERMINING GUN CONTROL
The Conservative government is again showing its true intentions to kill gun control in Canada by extending for one more year the amnesty for unlicensed gun owners or unregistered rifles and shotguns, Liberal Public Safety Critic Ujjal Dosanjh said this week.
Dosanjh said: "This government's latest extension of the gun amnesty is killing gun control in this country by stealth. Instead of putting the future of gun control to an honest vote in the House of Commons, they are achieving the same ends through back door tactics like sweeping amnesties and funding cuts. The result is the undermining of the gun registry which is accessed by police over 5,000 times a day and is strongly supported by law enforcement officials across the country."
Last week the Conservative government took the first step to extending the amnesty for unlicensed owners or the owners of unregistered long guns by submitting its proposed regulations to the Canada Gazette. The first amnesty came in 2006, the same year the Conservatives introduced legislation that would eliminate the requirement to register rifles and shotguns. But instead of putting this legislation to a vote, they chose in 2007 to extend the amnesty by one year. They are now proposing to extend it for yet another year.
Dosanjh said: "The sad truth of the matter is Conservatives don't want Canadians to know what their real agenda is. This government opposes gun control, and by its lack of transparency on this issue, all Canadians are paying a price.
"Legitimate gun owners are also failed by the Conservatives' under-handed tactics. They have been put in a state of legal limbo. The secrecy and lack of clarity surrounding the government's true agenda has led over 100,000 gun owners to allow their licenses to expire. Legitimate owners deserve honesty and clarity from this government."
#22. SECOND REFERENDUM PLANNED ON ELECTORAL REFORM
The Electoral Reform Referendum 2009 Act, legislation to allow a second referendum on an alternative electoral system, was introduced by Attorney General Wally Oppal this week.
The referendum required under this legislation will be held in conjunction with the next scheduled provincial general election on May 12, 2009. The referendum will be similar to the one held in 2005, but with some important differences.
Public funding will be available to groups who are supporters or detractors of both the single transferable vote (STV) and the current first-past-the-post election systems. Through the chief electoral officer, registered groups will be given funds to provide information and educational material about their positions. Specific funding criteria and the process for applying would be established in regulations.
A total of $500,000 will be made available to each side of the debate. Government will again fund a neutral referendum information office, as it did in 2005.
The referendum question will be introduced by government for debate in the legislative assembly before it is put to voters. The proposed electoral map will be available during the referendum, so voters will be able to see how STV would affect their electoral districts if it is adopted.
The threshold for success will be the same as in 2005 - at least 60 per cent of the provincewide popular vote and majority support in at least 60 per cent of the province's electoral districts. If the referendum vote is in favour of STV, it will be in place for B.C.'s 2013 election.
#23. $209 MILLION TO ENHANCE B.C.'S ARTS AND CULTURE
The province is investing $209 million to support arts and culture across British Columbia, Premier Gordon Campbell announced this week.
"Art is essential in communicating and preserving the history, heritage and culture that define us as a province," said Campbell. "The cultural infrastructure this investment creates will provide opportunities for British Columbians to get involved with and experience arts and culture in their community and across the province. We are recognized across the country and we want to be sure British Columbians share in the artistic treasury that is right here at home."
The $209 million in provincial funding will support three initiatives: $150 million to create the BC150 Cultural Fund; $50 million for an expansion of the Vancouver Art Gallery; and $9 million to restore and revitalize the Vancouver East Cultural Centre.
The $150-million BC150 Cultural Fund will provide long-term, stable funding for a wide range of arts and cultural activities in communities across the province. The initial $150 million will be invested, with interest earned on the principal to fund arts and cultural activities in the years ahead.
"The BC Arts Council is absolutely delighted with these announcements," said BC Arts Council chair Donald Shumka. "Establishment of the BC150 Cultural Fund clearly demonstrates the government's confidence in the contribution of the arts and cultural community throughout British Columbia to achieving the strategic priorities of the province."
"A strong arts and cultural infrastructure is an important part of our economic and social future. The increase of support and improvement of infrastructure will reinforce our international reputation. It enhances opportunities for residents and visitors alike," said Tourism, Sport and the Arts Minister Stan Hagen. "This expansion of the Vancouver Art Gallery will allow for major, impressive national and international exhibits, and attract more tourists, thus helping us in our goal to double tourism revenues by 2015."
Funding for the Vancouver Art Gallery will contribute to establishing a new facility. This is in addition to $603,000 in operating funds provided by government through the BC Arts Council in 2007.
The gallery is currently located in the old court house in Robson Square, well-known to British Columbians for its heritage and visual appeal. However, annual attendance has more than doubled since 1997, putting pressure on the existing space, as does the need to house a growing collection of artworks. A new, larger facility will allow the gallery to display and store its increasing collections and meet modern seismic and environmental standards.
The Vancouver East Cultural Centre, known locally as "the Cultch," will put $9 million in provincial funding towards restoration and revitalization, and to establish an endowment to help with ongoing operating costs. This funding is in addition to $90,000 provided by the province in 2007 through the BC Arts Council. Revitalization projects underway include building a new three-storey addition to the current facility and restoring the 99-year-old historic building.
#24. ARTHRITIS PATIENTS TO BENEFIT FROM MORE DRUG THERAPIES
Patients with an arthritic condition that affects the spinal cord now have more treatment options through government's approval of three new drug therapies, announced Health Minister George Abbott this week.
Beginning March 14, rheumatologists can apply using specialized forms for coverage of adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel) and infliximab (Remicade) by fax or mail for patients with ankylosing spondylitis who meet the eligibility criteria through the PharmaCare Special Authority program.
"Hundreds of patients and their families in British Columbia are affected by this painful form of arthritis that targets the spine," said Abbott. "There is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis but, by adding new treatments, we can expand the number of effective therapies and improve patients' quality of life."
The cost for all three drugs is estimated at up to $4 million in the first year of listing and is expected to grow annually. PharmaCare estimates that initially 200 to 250 patients may be eligible to receive coverage for these new drug therapies, and the number of patients who benefit from coverage is expected to grow over time.
"The government's decision to expand drug coverage for patients with ankylosing spondylitis supports our mandate to promote the best possible care and treatment for people with arthritis in British Columbia," said Ron Woznow, executive director of the Arthritis Society, BC and Yukon.
In 2006/07, PharmaCare spent $22.4 million on adalimumab, etanercept and infliximab to treat patients with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
"Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic, painful inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting spine and sacroiliac joints, causing eventual fusion of the spine," said Dr. Bob Offer, a B.C. rheumatologist. "Making new therapies available is great news for patients and their families as it will allow patients to live more active lifestyles, including patients remaining in the workforce, as they are most often young adults."
Beginning March 14, rheumatologists can also apply using specialized forms through fax or mail for coverage of infliximab through Special Authority for patients with psoriatic arthritis who meet eligibility requirements. PharmaCare currently provides coverage of etanercept (Enbrel) and adalimumab (Humira) for psoriatic arthritis.
The province has supported many recent arthritis initiatives, including:
* New clinical practice guidelines for physicians on rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and treatment were issued in May 2006, which was supported by government through a $1-million grant to the Arthritis Society, BC and Yukon in 2005.
* Patient surveys that capture the patient experience and priorities for the system of care for rheumatoid arthritis in 2004 and osteoarthritis in 2007.
Since 2005, PharmaCare has approved 323 individual drug submissions, of which roughly 235 are generic drugs and approximately 88 are other submission types, including new brand name drugs and new drug indications. Since 2001, government has increased PharmaCare's budget by $361 million to more than $1 billion in 2007/08.
#25. SPCA AMENDMENTS FURTHER PROTECT ANIMALS
The province is strengthening the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to ensure the B.C. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BCSPCA) continues to have the authority it needs to carry out its animal welfare mandate, Agriculture and Lands Minister Pat Bell announced this week.
"The province supports and values the work done by the BCSPCA staff and its numerous volunteers as they assist and protect animals," said Bell. "The changes we are introducing today will ensure the highest standards of animal welfare exist here in British Columbia and are consistent with standards in other provinces."
The amendments will improve the BCSPCA's power to help animals that are in distress or abandoned and will increase penalties for offences. Currently, upon conviction for the offence of causing distress to an animal, there is a penalty of up to $2,000 or a six-month jail sentence or both. That will increase to $5,000 or a six-month jail sentence or both for a first offence and $10,000 or a six-month jail sentence or both for a second offence. The amendments address operational issues identified by the BCSPCA and will:
* Refine the definition of "distress" to include situations where an animal's health or well-being is affected by inadequate ventilation, space, care or veterinary treatment.
* Authorize agents operating in remote areas to obtain warrants by telephone.
* Clarify the authority of agents to seize evidence of an offence.
* Clarify the authority of agents to take abandoned animals into custody.
* Clarify the BCSPCA's authority to hold and dispose of animals, and the obligation of animal owners to reimburse the Society for its care-related costs.
* Provide immunity from legal proceedings for damages to persons performing duties or exercising powers under the act.
* Update provisions relating to corporate structure and obligations.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Lands supports the work of the BCSPCA through annual grants, and overall, since 2001, the Province has provided the BCSPCA with over $3.15 million to assist it with the costs of its operations.
"For our organization, the amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act mean we can now carry out our mandate more effectively and efficiently," said Craig Daniell, chief executive officer of the BCSPCA.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was enacted in 1895 to establish the BCSPCA and authorizes the Society to take action to assist all captive animals, including farm animals, that are in distress and to investigate offences involving animals.
#26. ELECTION SPENDING: OPPOSITION HOOFS OUT CONSERVATIVE CHAIR
The three opposition parties united this week to remove Conservative Procedure and House Affairs Committee Chair Gary Goodyear for abusing his power to prevent a Parliamentary investigation into his party's alleged scheme to violate election spending limits during the 2006 federal election.
"For over six months now, on countless occasions, Mr. Goodyear has arbitrarily ignored parliamentary practice to help his party prevent an investigation into the 'in and out' scandal," said Liberal Whip Karen Redman.
"Elections Canada has refused to provide refunds to more than 60 Conservative candidates who improperly claimed national advertising expenses as local campaign expenses, contrary to the Elections Act. This could mean the Conservatives exceeded the legal spending limit in the last election by over $1 million. This is very serious and Canadians deserve answers."
The Conservative Party has been under investigation by the independent Elections Commissioner since last spring for allegedly funneling over $1.2 million in national advertising costs to regional candidates during the 2006 federal election in order to circumvent federal election spending limits.
In January, Elections Canada filed an affidavit pointing out examples of how Conservative candidates booked widely different amounts to claim expenses for the broadcast of the same national party ad. They indicated their concern that the scheme was designed to make use of unused local campaign limits to book national expenses, rather than to fund actual local advertising.
The Liberals' call for Goodyear's resignation was echoed by Committee members from the NDP and Bloc Québécois.
"The Conservative government has literally written the book on how to disrupt democratic operations and grind parliamentary business to a halt," said Redman. "Since Mr. Goodyear continues to stubbornly follow the Conservatives' obstructionist playbook, we had no choice but to remove him as Chair.
"We hope that newly elected Chair, Joe Preston, will allow for a workable environment which will allow that Committee to do meaningful work on behalf of Canadians."
#27 UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA GETS CENTENARY GIFT
On Friday, March 7 Canada Post celebrated the centenary of the University of British Columbia (UBC) with a domestic rate (52-cent) stamp. An Act to Establish and Incorporate a University for the Province of British Columbia was passed 100 years ago on this very same day. Point Grey, a 175-acre site on a peninsula on Vancouver's West Side was selected to be its eventual campus.
Construction for UBC was halted when World War I broke out and financial resources were diverted to the war effort. In September 1915, UBC opened at the Fairview Campus adjacent to the current Vancouver General Hospital. As part of the school's epic Great Trek of 1922, students collected 56,000 signatures for their "Build the University" campaign. Their efforts paid off; sufficient funds were amassed to finish the science building, the library, and six other buildings for agriculture, applied science, the arts department, the auditorium, and administrative offices.
Although more work lay ahead, UBC opened its doors on September 22, 1925, and welcomed some 1,400 students to its inaugural lectures. UBC has moved forward in strides since its early days in the "Fairview Shacks." Its two campuses in Vancouver (Point Grey and Robson Square) are home to over 36,079 undergraduate and 8,641 graduate students, and its Kelowna campus, which opened its doors in September 2005, hosts and additional 4,900 students. Moreover, with students invested in everything from policies and procedures to politics, they stand proud behind UBC's motto Tuum est (Latin for "It is Yours").
The modern new stamp design celebrates this significant date in style and features the University's Walter C. Koerner Library building, an impressive and prominent structure located in the centre of the campus. Canada Post entrusted the stamp's design to Susan Mavor of Vancouver's Metaform Communication Design. The stamp features the school's signature colours of blue and golden yellow. Mavor says: "I believe we successfully attained our goal which was to convey a strong feeling of energy and dynamism."
The stamp and Official First Day Cover are available at participating post offices, online following the links on the Canada Post Web site (www.canadapost.ca) or by mail from the National Philatelic Centre. From Canada or the United States, call toll-free 1-800-565-4362; from other countries call 902-863-6550. You may also visit UBC's centenary website at www.100.ubc.ca for more information.
#28. VANCOUVER COASTAL HEALTH WARNS ABOUT BOOK FRAUD
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is warning businesses about a telemarketing company that is soliciting donations for a children's activity book, but is not approved or endorsed by VCH and its hospitals.
A Healing Hands Busy Books telemarketer recently contacted a business in Richmond for contributions for activity books purportedly to be distributed to terminally-ill children in "your community." The telemarketer, who made repeated weekly calls, mentioned Richmond Hospital, Vancouver General Hospital and BC Children's Hospital as places where the books would be distributed free to children, but at a cost to the donor of $5 for each book.
Vancouver Coastal Health is not involved in this campaign nor does it support or endorse the distribution of the book in any way.
In January, a similar campaign was operating in Victoria using hospital names in the Vancouver Island Health Authority. In 2003, VCH issued a warning after the same scheme was soliciting funds from North Shore businesses.
Healing Hands Busy Book telemarketers have targeted businesses in Alberta, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and the United States. Hospitals and health authorities in those places have issued similar warnings to businesses.
Donations to hospitals through reputable means are always gratefully received. Anyone wishing to make contributions to hospitals in their communities may contact their local hospital foundation. To find a list of VCH hospital foundations, please visit, http://www.vch.ca/foundation/.
#29. STATISTICS CANADA: OUR CHANGING LABOUR FORCE
* Between 2001 and 2006, total employment in Canada increased at an annual average rate of 1.7%, the fastest rate increase among the Group of Seven (G7) nations. Italy's growth rate of 1.2% was second and France and the United States of America followed.
* According to the census, employment in mining and oil and gas extraction reached 222,700 by 2006, an annual average gain of 7.5%. This was four times the national average of 1.7%. Alberta alone accounted for 70% of the employment growth in this industry. While employment in all parts of this industry increased, by far the fastest pace of growth was in oil and gas.
* Employment increased a strong 4.5% per year on average in the larger construction sector. During the five-year period, this sector added an estimated 196,200 workers to its ranks, bringing total employment to 991,200 in 2006.
* Manufacturing shed 136,700 jobs during the five-year period, equivalent to a 1.4% decline per year. This occurred in the wake of the rapidly appreciating Canadian dollar and shifts in production from Canada to other countries.
* On the other hand, employment increased by 1.8% per year in retail trade. As a result, the gap between employment in retail and manufacturing closed rapidly during the five-year period. In 2001, about 373,900 more people were employed in manufacturing than in retail trade. By 2006, this gap had shrunk to only about 81,400.
* Data for occupations largely reflected these industry developments. One of the fastest growing occupation categories over the five years was the construction industry. More specifically, the number of trades helpers and labourers increased by 52,300, or 57.2%, to 143,900.
* In the textile industry, the number of sewing machine operators plunged by 18,300, or 32.7%. There was also a decline in the number of metal fabricators, including steel workers.
* According to data on labour mobility, 563,000 or 3.4% of the total workforce moved to a different province or territory between 2001 and 2006. Mobility rates were highest in the territories and Alberta. In 2006, the mining and oil and gas extraction and public administration industries had the highest shares of interprovincial movers in their workforces.
* Census data also showed that the aging of Canada's labour force continued between 2001 and 2006. In 2006, workers aged 55 and older accounted for 15.3% of the total labour force, up from 11.7% in 2001.
* Unemployment rates among Aboriginal peoples remained relatively high in 2006, but were down from 2001. Employment rates among the various Aboriginal groups rose between 2001 and 2006.
* Among recent immigrants (those who arrived in Canada since 2001) of core working age (ages 25 to 54), the share who were employed was 67.0%, up 3.6 percentage points from 2001. This was faster than the gain among Canadian born, causing the gap between the employment rates of recent immigrants and the Canadian born to shrink from 17.5 percentage points in 2001 to 15.4 percentage points by 2006.
#30. STATISTICS CANADA: OUR LANGUAGES AT WORK
* More than one language of work in Canada
In 2006, close to 2.8 million Canadians reported using more than one language at work. They represented 15.0% of the population aged 15 and over who were employed between January 1, 2005 and May 16, 2006. This was a slight increase over 2001 (14.6% or 2.5 million individuals), the first census that collected statistics on language of work.
* Francophone workers outside Quebec
Outside Quebec, 69% of the 577,000 Francophone workers reported using French at work. French was the language that 40% of them used most often in both 2006 and 2001, whereas 29% of them used it regularly, an increase over 2001 (27%). This indicates a slight overall increase compared to 2001 (67%).
* Immigrant workers in Quebec
In 2006, the use of French was on the rise among immigrant workers in Quebec. Of the 507,000 workers born outside the country, 65% used French most often (alone or with another language) at work. This represented an increase compared to the percentage observed in 2001 (63%).
* Allophone immigrant workers
The use of French was also on the rise among allophone immigrant workers in Quebec compared to 2001 figures. Among allophones, who represented approximately 70% of all immigrant workers in Quebec, 63% reported using French alone or with another language most often at work in 2006. In 2001, this proportion was closer to 60%.
* Anglophone workers
In 2006, Anglophones in Quebec used French at work more than in 2001. Whereas 68% of them reported using French at work in 2006 (32% most often alone or with another language, and 36% regularly), 65% had done so five years before.
* Workers on the Island of Montréal
In the census division of Montréal (or Island of Montréal), the use of French at work by Anglophones reached 65% in 2006 (24% most often and 41% regularly), compared to 64% in 2001.
While the use of French most often at home throughout the Island of Montréal had decreased since 2001, its use at work remained virtually unchanged. In 2006, 58% of workers living on the Island of Montréal used French most often at home, compared to 60% five years earlier. The proportion of those using French most often at work remained the same at 69% for both census years.
* Allophone workers in Canada as a whole
The use of non-official languages at work fell slightly among Canadians whose mother tongue was neither English nor French in all provinces and territories, with the exception of British Columbia. Whereas in 2001, 23% of allophones used a language other than English or French at work (11% most often, 12% regularly), this proportion was 22% in 2006.
The rising numbers of allophone immigrants over the past five years did not lead to an increase in the use of non-official languages at work by allophone immigrants as a whole.
#31. STATISTICS CANADA: OUR EDUCATIONAL PORTRAIT
* Six out of every 10 adults aged between 25 and 64 had completed some form of postsecondary education in 2006 according to data from the census.
* Just under one-quarter (24%) of the adults aged 25 to 64 had a high school diploma as their highest level of attainment, while 15% had less than a high school education.
* The number of university graduates increased 24% since 2001.
* In 2006, Canada ranked sixth among all Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries in terms of the proportion of the adults aged 25 to 64 who had a university degree. In the case where university and college are combined, however, no other OECD nation had a higher proportion than Canada.
* Young adults had a higher level of educational attainment than their older counterparts. About 29% of young adults aged 25 to 34 had a university degree in 2006, well above the proportion of 18% among adults aged 55 to 64.
* Fewer young adults were studying in trades than their parents. About 10% of young adults aged 25 to 34 had a trade certification in 2006, compared with 13% of the older adults aged between 55 and 64.
* Young adults are also choosing to study different trades than older generations. For example, there are 25,800 fewer 25 to 34 year-olds than 55 to 64 year-olds who had a trades certificate in Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians. On the other hand, there were 12,500 more young people who had a trades certificate in Personal and Culinary Services than the older generation.
* A much higher percentage of women than men aged between 25 and 34, 33% vs 25%, had a university degree. These percentages were both higher than those observed for older adults aged between 55 and 64, where 16% of women and 21% of men had a university degree.
* In 2006, one out of every five postsecondary graduates aged 25 to 64 had studied Business, Management, Marketing and Related Support Services, according to the census.
* Over half (51%) of recent immigrants, those who had immigrated to Canada between 2001 and 2006, had a university degree. This was more than twice the proportion of degree holders among the Canadian-born population (20%) and also much higher than the proportion of 28% among immigrants who arrived before 2001.
* Highly educated Canadians were more mobile. Adults aged between 25 and 64 who had a university degree accounted for 23% of this population, and for 33% of the people who moved to another province or territory between 2001 and 2006.
* Alberta was the prime beneficiary of interprovincial migration among highly educated adults. Overall, Alberta had the biggest net inflow of postsecondary graduates while Ontario recorded the biggest net outflows.
|
