Sustainable economy
Policy makers used to think about the environment as something
to be protected from the negative effects of economic growth and the
marketplace. Today, it is recognized that environmental, social, and economic
well-being are inextricably linked. The challenge, therefore, is to integrate
all these considerations into the way decisions are made to ensure that Canada's
economy, environment, and society are sustainable over time.
While Canada has made progress toward achieving an innovative
and knowledge-based economy, there are significant numbers of adult Canadians
with low-level literacy skills that constrain their participation in society and
in the economy.
Also, while levels of several air pollutants have dropped over
the last decade, climate change and the status of many species at risk continue
to be causes for concern. Canada has made significant progress on environmental
protection, but more needs to be done. The Government of Canada will work with
consumers, environmentalists, partners, and stakeholders in further developing
its integrated approach to a sustainable economy.
The Canadian economy is, however, considered to be one of the
strongest and healthiest among the G-7 countries, and Canada has enjoyed the
strongest growth in employment within the G-7. The government's economic and
fiscal plan has been, and will continue to be, to generate the greatest possible
growth while providing equality of opportunity to all Canadians.
Canada's social foundations
The Government of Canada supports quality of life of its
citizens not only by strengthening the social fabric and by reflecting and
reinforcing values that are important to Canadians but also by promoting and
protecting health and ensuring effective health care services. The Government of
Canada also establishes and enforces laws that keep Canadians safe, regulate
Canadian society, and protect disadvantaged groups in Canadian communities.
Canada's social foundations are experiencing a number of
challenges. While indicators point to a less involved civic society as political
participation and volunteering among Canadians are both declining, personal
tolerance toward diversity is increasing.
Progress has been noted in housing, as the proportion of
Canadians who are unable to afford shelter that is adequate, suitable, and
affordable is decreasing.
Although a growing proportion of Canadians are also considered
either overweight or obese, Canadians can expect to live longer than ever.
The Government of Canada is committed to having the best
possible system for ensuring the health of Canadians. Medicare is a vital aspect
of Canada's shared citizenship: it speaks to Canadian values and priorities.
Canadians want a system that gives them access to the care they need, when they
need it.
Canada's place in the world
The world is changing, rapidly and radically, and these changes
matter to Canada. Canada's security, prosperity, and quality of life are all
affected by global transformations and the challenges they bring.
Canada must therefore remain engaged abroad if the government is
to meet the challenges and seize the many opportunities a global economy can
bring, while contributing its share to international peace, security, and
assistance.
Canada is committed to improving international security, but
many Canadians think that much work remains to be done.
Canadians, who come from every corner of the globe, understand
that the life enjoyed by citizens in this country depends increasingly on
helping to make life in other countries better as well. Although the federal
government has moved forward on three fronts to strengthen development
assistance results through increased aid, more effective aid, and policy
coherence across government, there is still progress to be made in this area.
Canada is, however, increasingly benefiting from partnership
with its North American neighbours, and Canadians are prospering in the global
economy.
Aboriginal peoples
Aboriginal peoples, however, have not fully shared in Canada's
prosperity. Although important progress has been made in the areas of health,
lifelong learning, housing, economic development, and improving relationships
with governments, much more needs to be done. The Government of Canada is
working in partnership with Aboriginal leaders and the provinces and territories
to find lasting solutions.
Partnering for success
The Government of Canada recognizes that it is only one of many
entities that shape Canadian society and that quality of life depends on many
factors. For this reason, the federal government partners with other levels of
government, private and voluntary sectors, non-governmental organizations, and
individuals to achieve the best possible social, economic, and environmental
outcomes for Canadians.
Give us your feedback
The Government of Canada is committed to continually improving
its reporting to parliamentarians and Canadians. We want to know what you think
of this report-what you like best and what you think needs to be changed so that
we can make more improvements.
We welcome your comments by mail, telephone, fax, or e-mail.
Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
Results-based Management Division
300 Laurier Avenue West
9th Floor, West Tower
Ottawa ON K1A 0R5
Telephone: (613) 957-7183
Fax: (613) 957-7044
E-mail: rma-mrr@tbs-sct.gc.ca
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