Toronto, Ontario: July 23, 2010:  The Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) shares the opinion that a review of the rules surrounding employment equity policies in public service hiring would be beneficial, and supports the commitment to the principles of equality, equity, fairness and merit which underlie the Employment Equity Act. The Act, proclaimed in 1986, was designed to advance the representation and promotion of historically disadvantaged groups -- women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities -- in the federal public service and in federally regulated industries.  Notionally, its purpose was to level the playing field so that all employment candidates would enjoy equality of opportunity in terms of access to qualifications and access to employment prospects.

 

“It is important to understand the purpose of the review, which is to create a public service that reflects the diversity of Canada, and to ensure that all Canadians have an equal opportunity to work for the federal public service on a meritorious basis, regardless of race or ethnicity”, said Dr. Ayman Al-Yassini, CRRF Executive Director.  “This would entail regular review and update of hiring procedures, retention policies and promotion strategies to optimize every opportunity to meet the objectives of fair and equitable representation, and consistent interpretation and application of the Act’s provisions and principles,”  Mr. Al-Yassini added.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms sets out equality as a cornerstone of Canadian law and legislation.  The Canadian Race Relations Foundation is of the opinion that any review of public service hiring policies needs to look at the removal of all barriers towards an equitable hiring strategy and a culture of equity, with the objective of making our institutions a true reflection of Canadian society.