Minister Calls for End of Exploitation of Children

Nova Scotia is joining the federal government and other provinces in calling for an end to the exploitation of children through child labour.

Labour Minister Angus MacIsaac, attending a meeting of Canadian labour ministers in Winnipeg today, called for elimination of child labour abuses.

Mr. MacIsaac also fulfilled an undertaking given by the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in November of 1999. The House unanimously adopted a resolution that supported ratification of International Labour Organization convention 182, which demanded the prohibition and immediate action for the elimination of the worst forms of child labour.

"This sends a clear signal around the world that such abuse will no longer be tolerated by Canada, at home and abroad," said Mr. MacIsaac.

In Nova Scotia, children are granted special employment protection under the Labour Standards Code. Youth 16-years and younger are protected by prohibiting their employment in potentially dangerous industries. Youth 14-years and younger are further restricted by the number of hours worked each day. They are also barred from work that is considered unwholesome or harmful to the child's health, normal development, or is likely to take the child out of school or make it hard to learn at school.

"We also have strong occupational health and safety legislation that protects all Nova Scotians," Mr. MacIsaac said. "Exploiting child labour is a sad and tragic condition and we must use our collective wills and influence to end this horrendous practice."