Policy Report: Increasing Aboriginal Participation in the Workforce.
Increasing the participation rate of Aboriginal peoples in the workforce has just recently been pushed to the forefront of Saskatchewan's priorities. While the overall population is stable, dramatic changes in the age and cultural structure have been occurring in the past decade and will continue in the future. The implications of these demographics cannot be underestimated. While the baby boomers are nearing retirement, the Aboriginal population is young and growing. It is central to the success of Saskatchewan's economy and well-being of its citizens to ensure that the employment rates of this demographic group continue to improve.
The policy goal revolves around ultimately obtaining a representational workforce. Introducing diversity into the workplace helps to meet many other objectives, such as a striving economy and prosperous citizens. By increasing the amount of Aboriginals in the workforce, the business community will become more competitive because it will have a better understanding of its workforce. This policy will also help improve the stability of the labour force. Reducing social costs, and increasing cultural awareness and cooperation are additional policy goals. More Aboriginal people participating in the workforce is a stepping stone to reaching these goals. Finally, an overarching goal is to improve the quality of life of the Aboriginal people of Saskatchewan.
Currently, the provincial and Federal government provides funding for the programs pertaining to Aboriginal employment. The Department of Aboriginal Affairs assigns coordinators to each program to monitor how the funds are allocated. Programs that are funded primarily by the federal government are directed and implemented by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and other federal departments. The Federal government is also responsible for ensuring the businesses of the public and private sector abide by the Employment Equity Act.