For Immediate Release
February 17, 2012
“The wealth of western economies is no more inevitable than the poverty of emerging ones, and that the wealth we enjoy today has been based on – and only on – the good, growth-oriented policies, the right, often tough choices and the hard work done in the past.” – Prime Minister Harper - January 16, 2012 - Davos, Switzerland
In observance of World Day of Social Justice (February 20), the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) calls on the Government of Canada to support efforts of Canadians and the international community in poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, gender equity and access to social well-being and justice for all.
“Prime Minister Harper’s recent remarks on Canada’s fiscal destiny underscore the importance of sound financial policies and planning to support economic growth” notes Morel Caissie, CASW President. “However it is important to recognize that social justice and social development are also necessary for the achievement and maintenance of peace and security within and among nations.”
Further to the point, the benefit of economic progress in western economies is becoming increasingly polarized as evidenced by recent reports from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development and Conference Board of Canada.
“There is a growing dissent grounded in the lived poverty of working Canadians who do not see their lives reflected in the rosy picture of a wealthy Canada” notes Caissie. “CASW urges the Government of Canada to use the renewal of the Canadian Social and Health Accords as opportunity to move beyond basic financial transfers of tax revenue to engaging in a national dialogue on renewing the social contract that binds us all.”
-30-
For more information:
Fred Phelps MSW, RSW
CASW Executive Director
Tel.: 613.729.6668