Introduction
Pursuant to Standing Order 109 of the House of Commons, we are pleased to respond, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to the recommendations made by the Standing Committee on the Status of Women in its report entitled Women's Economic Security: Securing the Future of Canada's Economy, tabled in the House of Commons on June, 14, 2018.
Our Government would like to thank the members of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women for undertaking this valueable study examining the challenges assoicated with the economic security, and full and equal participation of women in the Canadian economy. The Government also thanks the numerous witnesses who particpated in this comprehensive study, either as inidividual participants or as representatives of their organizations, as well as the organizations who sutmitted written briefs. We have given consideration to the eighty-six recommendations developed by the Committee and presented in its Report that touch upon a wide array of issues and challenges faced by women. As these multi-faceted issues that require a comprehensive response, the Government will use this report to help inform future government policy and programs as we strive to ensure the full participation of women in the Canadian economy.
The Government is committed to advancing the economic security and equality of women and gender diverse people in all ares of Canadian society. Progress on gender equality in Canada will drive economic growth, while boosting the income of Canadian families. More women in leadership positions can help grow the economy, create jobs, strengthen communities and contribute to innovation and change in the workplace that will benefit everyone. Our Governement recognizes that policies and programs should consider the intersectional identities and unique experiences of all Canadians and has introduced a number of initiatives that respond to these diverse needs. These include measures that will help women gain access to new oppportunities and build skills, improve thier work-life balance and support more equitable distribution of caregiving responsibilities, and provide for their health and well-being and that of their loved ones. We also value the importance of collecting comparable data to allow the examination of gender differences as well as recognize that all partners, including public sector, private sector, labour and civil society stakeholders, have a role to play in addressing the systemic and social barriers that prevent women from fully participating to the workforce. On the international scene, our Governement selected the advancement of gender equality and women's empowerment as the cross-cutting theme of Canada's 2018 G7 Presidency, integrating it throughout all G7 activities and events. The Government also estabilished the Gender Equality Advisory Council for Canada's G7 Presidency and propose recommendations to advance gender equality and women's empowerment.