The Government of Manitoba Supports Canada's International Labour Cooperation Agreements

November 17, 2009

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Labour, announced that the Honourable Jennifer Howard, Manitoba Minister of Labour and Immigration, has signed the Canadian Inter-governmental Agreement (CIGA) marking the Government of Manitoba's support for and adherence to the Canada-Costa Rica and the Canada-Chile Labour Cooperation Agreements (LCAs).

"By signing the Agreement, the Government of Manitoba has the opportunity to contribute to the implementation, management and further elaboration of Canada's Labour Cooperation Agreements," said Minister Ambrose. "The Government of Manitoba's participation in these international agreements will strengthen our ongoing efforts to promote fundamental human rights in the workplace."

"These agreements not only help to ensure the labour rights of workers in other countries are protected, but ultimately also protect our own workers and economy from unfair competition based on substandard labour practises in free trade partner countries," said Minister Howard.

Signing LCAs with countries in the Americas reflects Canada's broad and ongoing commitment to increase engagement with countries in the region.

"These Agreements, which build on a whole-of-government approach to Canada's enhanced engagement in the Americas will only serve to strengthen our already excellent bilateral relations with Chile and Costa Rica," said Peter Kent, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas).

The objective of the CIGA is to ensure that LCAs are implemented and managed through an effective federal, provincial and territorial partnership. The agreement allows the Government of Manitoba to support Canada's position on labour matters related to international trade and the enforcement of labour legislation.

Through its LCAs, Canada promotes the protection of fundamental labour rights and principles. The agreements promote improvements to working conditions and living standards, and respect for workers' rights in Canada's free trade partner countries.

LCAs highlight cooperation on labour matters and the effective enforcement of domestic labour legislation. LCAs help provide a balance between employer and worker interests and avoid competitive disadvantages for Canada in international trade and investment.

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