Released on October 3, 2003
The provincial government today released its plan for addressing women's equality issues in a document called the Action Plan for Saskatchewan Women … Moving Forward.
"This plan demonstrates our government's commitment to improving the lives of women, their children and their families," Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Deb Higgins said. "By working together with women and women's organizations across this province, we have been able to develop a framework that will guide government and community actions and provide a mechanism to measure progress."
The Action Plan addresses key issues for women such as economic security and equality, a life free from violence and harassment, improved health and well-being and the participation of women as leaders and decision-makers in all sectors of society and the economy.
Some of the key initiatives are:
• Developing a business case to increase women's participation in senior decision-making roles.
• Supporting the development of a Northern Saskatchewan Women's Network.
• Supporting an annual International Women's Day Grant Program.
• Examining better ways to identify and respond to legal services and information needs of women.
• Adding 1200 child care spaces over the next 4 years, with priority given to women pursuing education and training opportunities.
• Developing resource materials and providing training on the prevention of sexual and other forms of harassment.
"The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Women is just the first step in an on-going process," Higgins said. "Each year the Status of Women Office will consult with the women's community to review the plan and identify new actions to meet the needs of a changing society."
"It is essential that women's voices are being heard and their concerns are being addressed through the policies and programs they have helped to identify through their involvement in the Action Plan for Saskatchewan Women," Higgins said.
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For More Information, Contact:
Corinne Bokitch Labour Regina Phone: (306) 787-7423 Email: cbokitch@lab.gov.sk.ca |