News release

Municipality Commits to Diversity

Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission

Halifax Regional Municipality reaffirmed earlier commitments to develop a diverse workforce by signing an agreement today with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.

The agreement is an umbrella document that replaces affirmative action agreements signed previously between the commission and the former cities of Halifax and Dartmouth, and the former County of Halifax.

Through a combination of recruitment, hiring and training practices, the municipality is committed to developing a workforce that represents the diversity of people served by the municipality, said deputy mayor Larry Uteck.

"The agreement is about giving everyone a fair chance," said Mr. Uteck. "We have made some progress and we hope to continue on that path."

Today's agreement was signed by Mr. Uteck, municipal clerk Vi Carmichael, Mary MacLennan, chair of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, and Robbie Harrison, Minister responsible for the administration of the Human Rights Act.

As part of the agreement, the municipality will continue to identify and eliminate traditional employment barriers for women, persons with disabilities, racially visible people and aboriginal people. The municipality will update the commission annually on its progress. As well, copies of the agreement will be made available to all employees.

"I am pleased that the regional municipality has taken the step to achieve equal employment opportunity within the municipal workforce," said Mr. Harrison. "It is encouraging to see local government lead by example."

By signing the agreement, called a memorandum of understanding, the regional municipality agrees to adopt policies to ensure that all hiring, training, development and work assignments within the local government and all of its departments will be in compliance with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.

"Equity is good business practice," said Maureen Shebib, acting executive director of the human rights commission. "A workplace that embraces fairness in employment opportunities is better for everyone."

Currently, there are 27 affirmative action agreements between the commission and public and private sector partners in Nova Scotia. Affirmative action agreements are provincial government programs aimed at addressing discrimination faced by women, racial minorities, aboriginal people and people with disabilities.