December 5, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced a landmark Accord between the
Government of Canada and Canada’s voluntary sector. The Accord, which was
jointly developed within the five-year Voluntary Sector Initiative, spells out
the values, principles and commitments that will underlie the future
relationship. Joining the Prime Minister for this announcement was the
Honourable Lucienne Robillard, President of the Treasury Board and Chair of the
Reference Group of Ministers on the Voluntary Sector, as well as Marlene
Deboisbriand, Chair of the Voluntary Sector Steering Group.
"This Accord signifies the Government of Canada’s recognition of the
invaluable contribution of the voluntary sector to the Canadian way of life, and
I congratulate the Honourable Lucienne Robillard and all those who worked with
her to make it a reality," said the Prime Minister. "The 180,000
charities and non-profit organizations that make up the sector provide many of
the services that enrich our communities and act as a network to mobilize
Canadians in time of need. They give a voice to Canadians and provide a way for
citizens to make a difference."
Prime Minister Chrétien also announced funding of $50 million over five
years for the Canada Volunteerism Initiative, a new program to strengthen
volunteerism, and for data collection, analysis and dissemination to improve our
understanding of volunteerism’s impact on Canada’s economic and social
well-being.
"During this International Year of Volunteers, we have recognized and
celebrated the contributions of volunteers," said the Prime Minister.
"As the year comes to a close, we are pleased to announce the creation of
the Canada Volunteerism Initiative (CVI) as a legacy to carry forward this
important work."
"The CVI will encourage volunteerism and strengthen voluntary
organizations’ support for the millions of volunteers who give their time and
talents serving others," said the Prime Minister. "We can take pride
in the role volunteers play every day, and in times of crisis, to work for the
common good. Volunteering exemplifies the best qualities of citizenship. This is
the Canadian way."
Prime Minister Chrétien further announced today that the Government will
provide ongoing funding for an enhanced Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering,
and Participating, as well as the Satellite Account of Non-Profit Institutions
and Volunteering. These tools will continue to generate sound statistical
information on the health and vibrancy of the voluntary sector.
During the International Year of Volunteers, the Prince of Wales scholarships
were created to highlight the exceptional contributions young people have made
as volunteers in their communities. Thirteen young Canadian winners were also
announced today.
"We are delighted at the recognition and opportunities the Prime
Minister has announced today," said Marlene Deboisbriand, Chair of the
Voluntary Sector Steering Group. "These initiatives are evidence that our
contribution is valued, and that our relationship with the Government will
continue to grow."
For more information on these and other elements of the Voluntary Sector
Initiative, call 1 800 O-CANADA or visit the VSI Web site at http://www.vsi-isbc.ca.
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PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555
