CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY UNDER LATE CAPITALISM

2020 Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada announced by Corporate Knights Inc. 

Clean revenues growing twice as fast as regular revenues

TORONTO, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - Corporate Knights Inc. today released the 19th annual Best 50 Corporate Citizens 

Canada ranking. Selected from a pool of 273 Canadian companies, including all those with revenues over $1 billion – each evaluated on a set of up to 21 environmental, social and governance indicators, relative to their industry peers and using publicly available information – the Best 50 companies set the standard for sustainability leadership in Canada.

The top-ranked company in this year's Best 50 was Mountain Equipment Co-op. The outdoor good retailer earned the top spot due to a strong mix of environmentally friendly and fair-trade-certified products (representing 12% of its overall revenues). Mountain Equipment Co-op also had a leading CEO-to-average-worker pay ratio (15:1, about 20 times lower than its average peer) and strong executive gender diversity with women making up 50% of its senior management team.

This year, Corporate Knights completed additional analysis of revenue growth. It found that clean revenues tied to sustainable solutions, which reached $92 billion this year, were growing twice as fast as regular revenues. On a year-over-year basis, clean revenues shot up 14% versus 7% for revenues in general.

"The Best 50 Corporate Citizens have shown their mettle this year, providing needed relief for workers and communities during the pandemic and now stepping up to build back better post-COVID," said Toby Heaps, CEO of Corporate Knights.

On average, the Best 50 Corporate Citizens earned five times more clean revenue, were three times as likely to link executive pay to sustainability outcomes, had 50% more female executives and had a CEO-average-worker pay ratio half that of their large-company peers.

Metric

2020 Best 50

Avg. Large Company*

Metric	2020 Best 50	Avg. Large Company*
CEO-to-worker pay ratio	53-to-1	92-to-1
Women on board of directors %	34%	25%
Women among senior executives %	25%	16%
Exec. compensation link to sustainability % (y/n)	74%	26%
Clean revenue %	32%	6%

*All Canadian companies with more than $1 billion in FY2018 revenue excluding Best 50

This year's Best 50 Corporate Citizens will be recognized in Toronto at a virtual gala hosted by Corporate Knights. Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau will welcome attendees with opening remarks, to be followed by a discussion on how we can build back better post-COVID, featuring some of Canada's leading CEOs.

For full list and methodology, go to https://www.corporateknights.com/reports/best-50/

About Corporate Knights: Corporate Knights Inc. includes the sustainable business magazine Corporate Knights and a research division that produces rankings and financial product ratings based on corporate sustainability performance. Corporate Knights was named Magazine of the Year at the National Magazine Awards in 2013 and won the SABEW Canada Silver Award for Investigative Reporting in 2019.

SOURCE Corporate Knights Inc.

For further information: Toby Heaps, CEO, Corporate Knights Phone: +1 (416) 274-1432, Email: toby@corporateknights.com
Related Links

http://www.corporateknights.ca


Organization Profile

Corporate Knights Inc.


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Impact investing, employee satisfaction and sustainable revenue sources earn The Co-operators a spot among the Top 5 corporate citizens in Canada 

For the eleventh consecutive year, the financial services co-operative has been recognized as a Corporate Knights Best 50 Corporate Citizen in Canada

IT WAS FOUNDED ON THE PRAIRIES IN THE FORTIES BY THE COOPS AND CREDIT UNIONS OF WORKERS AND FARMERS. IT IS ONE OF THE OLDEST FINANCIAL ADVISORS IN CANADA FOR WORKING FOLKS AND A GREAT PLACE TO WORK IF YOU ARE A FAILED NDP POLITICIAN

The Co-operators

GUELPH, ON, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - In an annual ranking issued by Corporate Knights that measures companies' environmental, social, and governance–related performance, The Co-operators was recognized for leadership in sustainability, earning the #4 spot. 2020 marks the eleventh consecutive year The Co-operators has been included in this national ranking, including holding the #1 spot in 2019 and 2011.

"This recognition as a meaningful contributor to a sustainable economy is an important reflection of our commitment to helping to build more resilient communities," says Rob Wesseling, President and CEO of The Co-operators. "At a time when many people are experiencing significant challenges and uncertainty, the case for sustainability is clear. It enables us to navigate complexity and crises guided by a collaborative, long-term view of success – not only for our co-operative, but for all Canadians."

Highlights of The Co-operators 2019 sustainability performance include:
Products and services that enable a sustainable, low-carbon, resilient society (including its overland flood product, Comprehensive Water)
Leadership in impact investing, with $2.07 billion invested at the end of 2019, representing 19.4% of its invested assets
Strong employee retention rate of 91%

More details about The Co-operators sustainability, governance and financial performance can be found in its 2019 Integrated Annual Report. New this year, The Co-operators has also issued its inaugural Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures Report, Managing Climate-related Risks and Opportunities available online at cooperators.ca/reports.

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian co-operative with more than $47.3 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies, it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is ranked as a Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizen in Canada and listed among the Best Employers in Canada by Kincentric (formerly AON). For more information, visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE The Co-operators

For further information: media@cooperators.ca
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New report outlines structural barriers and opportunities for Indigenous Peoples
Diversity Institute at Ryerson University

TORONTO, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - A new report - Mapping the Landscape: Indigenous Skills Training and Jobs in Canada - from the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business (CCAB) and the Diversity Institute reveals gaps in employment for Indigenous peoples. Gaps that are being amplified by COVID 19. Indigenous youth are the fastest growing segment of the population - more than 350,000 will come of age by 2026. A focus on quality, targeted, and culturally appropriate education, skills and training targeting Indigenous people, could boost the country's economy by $27.7 billion annually.

The report is part of the Skills Next Project, a collaboration of the Public Policy Forum and the Diversity Institute at Ryerson's Ted Rogers School of Management —supported by the Future Skills Centre, which explores a number of the most important issues currently impacting the skills and employment ecosystem in Canada.

Systemic barriers and discrimination facing Indigenous people have been well- documented: even at higher numeracy and literacy skill levels, First Nations people still have a significantly lower probability of employment (75 percent) than Métis (87 percent) or non-Indigenous (90 percent) people. Notably, even lower-skilled non-Indigenous people have a higher probability of employment than First Nations people (87 percent). Workplace bullying and discrimination causes some Indigenous peoples to leave employment. Other studies have shown that the likelihood of success increases when training is culturally appropriate, engaging in land-based training and including wrap-around supports.

"COVID 19 has exacerbated existing disparities in the employment and skills ecosystem and Indigenous communities are among the hardest hit which lack much of the essential infrastructure to respond – including educational supports, broadband infrastructure and the social and economic resources to adapt," said Andrew Avgerinos, Research Associate, Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business and report co-author.

Despite the challenges, there are many bright spots. With earlier intervention and pre-employment training; culturally appropriate programming to upgrade essential skills as well as wrap-around services such as transportation support and affordable, accessible childcare, rates of employment and success can be significantly improved.

Indigenous businesses are growing and — importantly — creating employment for others. Self-employment and entrepreneurship are increasing, in fact, Indigenous women are starting businesses at twice the rate of non-Indigenous women. If there is an opportunity for the next generation, and for current adult workers, to leapfrog into the future of Canadian work, it may very well be through Indigenous-led business. At the same time, they are also disproportionately affected by COVID. They tend to be in services industries, smaller and under-financed making them far more vulnerable.

"We need to take action to ensure we do not lose the gains that have been made, " said Ashley Richard, Indigenous Partnership Coordinator for the Women's Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub at the Diversity Institute. "We need more granularity on the data on Indigenous peoples skills and employment and experience as entrepreneurs in order to steer evidence-driven policy. A better understanding of the nature of Indigenous labour market data gaps, what works to close them and the many untold success stories can improve opportunities for Indigenous peoples and boost Canada's economic and social development."

SOURCE Diversity Institute at Ryerson University

For further information: Diversity Institute, Kathleen Powderley, Email: kathleen@responsiblecomm.ca

Organization Profile

Diversity Institute at Ryerson University

Minister Garneau recognizes the essential contribution of seafarers on their international day Transport Canada 

AFTER WII DURING A SEAFARERS STRIKE ON THE ST LAURENCE SEAWAY IN 1949 THE LIBERAL GOVERNMENT OF THE DAY BUSTED UP THE LEFT LEANING CANADIAN MARITIME UNION BY BRINGING TO CANADA AN AMERICAN GANGSTER AND LABOR ORGANIZER HAL BANKS FROM A COMPETING AND MORE RIGHT WING UNION, THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION TOGETHER THEY BUSTED UP THE CMU. BECAUSE OF BANKS THE LIBERALS AND THE MOB HAD CONNECTIONS THROUGH OUT THE SIXTIES IN MONTREAL AND HAMILTON.

YOU WILL UNDERSTAND HOW HYPOCRITICAL THIS IS 

SEE BOTTOM FOR MORE INFORMATION 

OTTAWA, ON, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - Each day, seafarers play an important role in the movement of goods and people and significantly contribute to the Canadian economy. Their commitment has probably never been greater than during the COVID-19 pandemic, since most of them have been spending even longer periods of time at sea, far from their loved ones.

In honour of the International Maritime Organization's annual Day of the Seafarer, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Marc Garneau, is proud to recognize the essential role seafarers play, at home and abroad, in their contributions to maritime trade.

The theme to mark this year's Day of the Seafarer is "Seafarers are Key Workers." The Government of Canada applauds all seafarers in Canada and worldwide. They are indeed the key workers at the front lines, and they remain committed to the movement of people and the goods our country depends on, even during these challenging times.

As a maritime nation dependent on trade by sea, Canada remains a strong advocate for the safety and welfare of seafarers and maritime workers. Since the onset of COVID-19, the Government of Canada has continued to work closely with marine industry stakeholders to protect seafarers at sea and at ports.

Quote

"On this international Day of the Seafarer, I invite Canadians to join me in thanking the seafarers who make a real difference in our lives, every day. Even as we face a global crisis, they stepped up for us when we needed them the most—continuing to transport integral goods during the pandemic, and I am grateful for the essential work that they continue to do at home and abroad."

Minister of Transport
The Honourable Marc Garneau

Quick facts
In 2010, the International Maritime Organization, decided to designate June 25 as the International Day of the Seafarer as a way to recognize that almost everything that we use in our daily lives has been directly or indirectly affected by sea transport. This year, the annual Day of the Seafarer is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
The International Maritime Organization is the global, standard-setting authority for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping. Its main role is to create a regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is fair and effective, universally adopted, and universally implemented.
As a founding member, Canada has a long history of working with the International Maritime Organization to advance standards that promote maritime safety and security, protect the environment and safeguard seafarers.

Associated links

International Maritime Organization's Day of the Seafarer 2020

Stay connected

Follow Transport Canada on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons living with visual disabilities.

SOURCE Transport Canada

For further information: Livia Belcea, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, Livia-Marina.Belcea@tc.gc.ca; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, media@tc.gc.ca
Related Links

http://www.tc.gc.ca/

HAL BANKS SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION GOVERNMENT OF CANADA 

Web results

HAL BANKS | Maclean's | MAY 18 1963 - The Maclean's Archive

https://archive.macleans.ca › article › hal-banks

Banks' SIU brought to the struggle a long history of violence in the Forties and Fifties, and ... Nearly all were members of the Canadian Maritime Union, Banks' only ... neither the I.ibera! government in power when he came nor the Conservative ...

Hal C. Banks - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Hal_C._Banks

An American with mob connections, he came to Canada in 1949 to help bust purportedly Communist-controlled shipping unions and establish the Seafarers International Union as their replacement.

Seafarers' International Union | The Canadian Encyclopedia

https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca › article › seafarers-international-...

Seafarers' International Union In 1949, supported by the federal government and some ... Within a few months, Hal BANKS and the "goons" he brought with him, ...

American gangster in montreal the true story of hal c. banks ...

https://cpress.org › old › american-gangster-in-montreal-the-true-story-of-...

Instead Brittain focused on the Canadian government's involvement in Banks' impunity ... Hal C. Banks' Seafarer's International Union violently opposed the ...

UNION CONFIRMS BANKS HAS QUIT; Ousted Leader of SIU ...

https://www.nytimes.com › 1964/10/03 › archives › union-confirms-banks-h...

UNION CONFIRMS BANKS HAS QUIT; Ousted Leader of S.I.U. in Canada ... of Hal C. Banks from all his posts in the Seafarers International Union of North ... of the Canadian Government to help rid the maritime industry of the Canadian ...

HAL BANKS, 76, DIES; UNION OFFICIAL LED SEAFARERS ...

https://www.nytimes.com › 1985/09/27 › hal-banks-76-dies-union-official-le...

Sep 27, 1985 - As head of the 15,000-member Seafarers International Union of Canada, Mr. Banks played an instrumental role in organizing strikes against ...

Missing: GOVERNMENT ‎| Must include: GOVERNMENT

Everything That Floats: Pat Sullivan, Hal Banks, and The ...

https://www.umanitoba.ca › cmarchive › reveverythingfloats

Banks came to Canada at the request of the Seafarers' International Union to ... questions surrounding Banks, union corruption, and government involvement.

The 1949 Canadian Seamen's Union Strike

www.wfhathewaylabourexhibitcentre.ca › labour-history › the-1949-canad...

The story of the 1949 Canadian Seamen's Union (CSU) strike is an appalling story ... The CSU President advised the government: “We are quite prepared to see that ... The SIU sent in forty-year old, Iowa-born, Harold Chamberlain Banks (Hal ...

Communists, Gangsters, and Canadian Sailors - Labour / Le ...

www.lltjournal.ca › index.php › llt › article › download

by C Heron - ‎Cited by 4 - ‎Related articles

William Kaplan, Everything That Floats: Pat Sullivan, Hal Banks, and the Cana- ... International Union (SIU) became die most infamous embodiment of corruption in labour ranks that ... labour movements, the Canadian government complied.

Canada's sweetheart : the saga of Hal C. Banks (VHS tape ...

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Harold Chamberlain Banks, a convicted felon and union strongarm, was recruited ... replace them with a Canadian chapter of the Seafarers' International Union (SIU). ... This challenge resulted in the government-appointed Norris Commission ..

New Partnership to Create Canadian-Made Plant-Based Foods


Protein Industries Canada

A joining of forces on the Prairies will elevate Canada's plant-protein ecosystem

REGINA, SK, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - Today, Protein Industries Canada ("PIC") announced a project focused on creating new plant-based foods using pulses grown and processed on the Prairies.

The $11.3 million-dollar project will see a consortium of AGT Food and Ingredients ("AGT") and ulivit, work together to process pea, lentil and faba bean protein concentrate into high moisture meat analogue, Texturized Pulse Protein (TPP), tempeh, tofu, pasta and non-dairy analogues. These ingredients will then be further developed into market-ready food for the consumer and restaurant.

Rotini pasta from AGT Foods (CNW Group/Protein Industries Canada)

Laura Gustafson - founder of ulivit (CNW Group/Protein Industries Canada)


This project brings together AGT, considered one of the founders of Canada's plant protein industry, with ulivit, – a young company led by two talented women entrepreneurs, to execute projects that will contribute to revolutionising the plant-based food market. Building off each other's experience and expertise, they will use dry fractioned pulses as feedstock to create high-protein products using green production methods that will consume less energy and water than existing commercial processes.

"This project is exciting on so many levels," CEO of Protein Industries Canada Bill Greuel said. "First of all, it is a classic example of how the cluster is supposed to work – a collaboration between large and micro companies to bring new innovations to the market. Secondly, its benefit to Canadians - from the farmer growing the pulse crops who will now have more options to sell their product closer to home, to the processors and packagers in the middle who employ Canadians across the country, to the consumer looking to introduce more tasty and innovative plant-protein products into their diet."

It is expected that the demand for plant-based products will only continue to grow, and that increasingly consumers will look for many food products that are flexitarian in nature – meaning that they blend the type of products that AGT and ulivit will create, such as TPP and other pulse ingredients with meat to provide an alternative that is not one or the other, but both.

"We are very happy to work with ulivit on innovative new projects through the PIC Supercluster program," said Murad Al-Katib, President and CEO of AGT. "Development of applications for plant-based foods and the ingredients that are used to make them has been a significant part of AGT's strategy over the past decade. We were at the forefront leading what is now seen by many as the plant-based revolution. Meat alternatives, like those we see in many products in the marketplace, have really gained traction with consumers as they search out new and innovative products that are good for them and taste good as well. The critical R&D and production work needed to predict what consumers may be looking for and provide products that fit their tastes is key, not only to AGT's growth but for emerging companies like ulivit and the pulse food sector overall. Saskatchewan and Canada are the first stop on the protein highway, and we look forward to continuing to innovate, produce and assist in growing a new segment of an exciting sector. PIC helps us to accelerate this growth trajectory we are on."

"We are super excited to collaborate with Protein Industries Canada and AGT on this project. At ulivit we want to make the world a healthier and happier place with plant-based foods," Founder of ulivit Laura Gustafson said. "The Supercluster program is a game changer for ulivit. It creates opportunities that would have been difficult, if not impossible, to achieve. Opportunities associated with AGT's global leading team, ingredients, infrastructure, experience, and relationships that will propel our company. We are thrilled AGT and PIC are part of our plant-protein journey and look forward to creating delicious and sustainable plant-based foods for Canadians and the world."

This project represents the seventh project announced by Protein Industries Canada. Since June of last year Protein Industries Canada and industry consortiums have invested more than $100 million into Canada's plant protein ecosystem. Protein Industries Canada's third call for Expressions of Interests (EOIs) is now open.

About AGT Food and Ingredients

AGT Food and Ingredients Inc. (AGT) is a Saskatchewan-based processor of value-added pulses, staple foods and food ingredients for export and domestic markets; a producer of food ingredients such as pulse flours, proteins, starches and fibres as well as pulse-based food products such as texturized pulse proteins used as meat substitutes and pulse-based pasta; and a supplier of retail packaged and canned foods to retail and food service sectors. AGT's pulse-based food ingredient products are used by food companies around the globe to enhance and fortify their products and brands with pulse ingredients that are non-GMO, high in fibre, high in protein, low in glycemic index, gluten-free and whose production is low in greenhouse gases, low in water usage and promotes soil health without the application of fertilizer. Through its offices and processing facilities located in some of the best agricultural growing regions in Canada, the U.S., Turkey, China, Australia and South Africa, merchandising and sales offices in the U.K., the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland and India and origination offices in Russia, AGT produces a full range of pulses and specialty crops including lentils, peas, chickpeas, beans and canary seed and staple foods such as pasta, rice, and milled wheat products, including bulgur and semolina. For more information on AGT Foods, please visit www.agtfoods.com.

About ulivit

ulivit superfood inc., is a start-up company based in the heart of the Canadian prairies. An innovative food company using the best Canadian pulse protein grown by our trusted Canadian farmers and blended with old-fashioned human taste buds and a sprinkle of science to develop plant-based food that is all good. Soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, high in fibre, high in protein, low on the glycemic index, and dare we say, carbon positive?! We believe there is a happy and healthier way to feed the planet. Inspiring joyful connections between families and friends over good food. At ulivit, we're feeding the change we want to see in the world by creating tasty and healthy plant-based foods with a featherlight footprint on our planet's resources. We think this is really important for the future of the world and hope you do too! For more information on ulivit, please visit www.ulivit.ca.

SOURCE Protein Industries Canada

For further information: Tiffany Stephenson, Protein Industries Canada, Regina, SK, 306-519-8202, tiffany@proteinsupercluster.ca

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Protein Industries Canada


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Statement - First Ministers' statement on anti-racism

Prime Minister's Office


OTTAWA, ON, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - "Events at home and abroad have underscored that Black and racialized communities and Indigenous peoples continue to be harmed by the damaging impacts of racism and discrimination. Governments, communities, and all Canadians must come together to fight racism and discrimination.

"Recognizing that one of the strengths of Canada is its diversity, First Ministers condemn all forms of racism, discrimination, intolerance, and bigotry. First Ministers are determined to combat it – including anti-Black, anti-Indigenous, and anti-Asian racism and hate, as well as antisemitism and Islamophobia. Hate has no place in Canada and will not be tolerated.

"Acknowledging that there is a problem is only the first step; a society that is free of racism and discrimination requires an ongoing commitment. Federal, provincial, and territorial governments commit to exercise leadership and bring any required changes to their policies, initiatives, and practices to best support communities and address the root causes of inequalities. We further acknowledge that the perspectives of racialized communities and those who have lived experience of historic discrimination can best inform strong and continued action. This also includes working with Indigenous peoples to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action and the Calls for Justice of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

"We, as First Ministers, agree to drive progress on these efforts and share best practices around the First Ministers' table. Moving forward includes working towards enhancing information sharing – particularly disaggregated race-based and socio-economic data – to facilitate evidence-based decision-making. We need to focus on removing social and economic barriers, and providing economic opportunities and leadership roles in communities across Canada.

"We acknowledge the urgency of addressing these complex and long-standing issues. We have a responsibility to create a more solid foundation to combat racism and discrimination in Canada and to achieve lasting change. We, First Ministers, commit to working with all Canadians to be part of the solution."

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office

For further information: PMO Media Relations: media@pmo-cpm.gc.ca
Related Links

http://pm.gc.ca/


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Prime Minister's Office


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Canada continues to explore innovative solutions for refugees


Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada


OTTAWA, ON, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today reaffirmed Canada's ongoing commitment to exploring innovative solutions for refugees during the virtual Annual Tripartite Consultations on Resettlement (ATCR).

During the meeting, Minister Mendicino presented 3 new actions stemming from Canada's pledge at the Global Refugee Forum in 2019. Moving forward, Canada will:
admit up to 500 refugees as part of the Economic Mobility Pathways Project over the next 2 years establish an advisory role for a former refugee to attend international refugee protection meetings with the Canadian delegation, and support the creation of a new Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility

The Minister highlighted that these proposals demonstrate Canada's commitment to refugee protection and the expansion of opportunities for refugees. These are concrete actions that Canada hopes will inspire other countries and partners, and strengthen the work of the ATCR.

The ATCR is the primary forum for governments, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), non-governmental organizations, international organizations, refugees and other stakeholders to collaborate on refugee resettlement. In July 2019, Canada assumed the chair of the ATCR, which concludes at the end of June 2020.

Quote

"It has been an honour to co-chair the Annual Tripartite Consultations on Resettlement, along with the Canadian Council for Refugees and the UNHCR. Canada deeply values its participation in these sessions, so we can continue to help lead efforts to advance refugee protection and to find new solutions for refugees through resettlement and complementary pathways."
‒ The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Quick facts:
Through the EMPP, candidates can apply for permanent residence through existing economic immigration pathways, such as the Provincial Nominee Program, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.
The overarching goal of the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility, which will be launched later in 2020, is to generate global momentum to scale up labour mobility pathways as a solution for refugees.
The ATCR is held annually in Geneva, Switzerland. However, due to the global pandemic, this year's meetings were held virtually.

Associated links:
News release: Canada reaffirms strong leadership role in refugee protection at Global Refugee Forum
Global Refugee Forum
News release: LERRN Announces Plans for Refugee Advisory Network

Follow us:
Facebook.com/CitCanada
Twitter.com/CitImmCanada
Instagram.com/CitImmCanada

SOURCE Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

For further information: Contacts for media only: Kevin Lemkay, Minister's Office, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, 613-954-1064; Media Relations, Communications Branch, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, 613-952-1650, IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Related Links

http://www.cic.gc.ca


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Finland, Canada, and the Netherlands join forces to advance the circular economy as key to a sustainable recovery 

Environment and Climate Change Canada
GATINEAU, QC, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - The world needs a sustainable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Led by the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, Finland has joined forces with Canada and the Netherlands to host three high-level events to address the important role circularity plays in the economies of the future as well as in the fight against climate change and the nature crisis.

Along with their partners, Sitra will showcase the tools and solutions countries need to build well-being and prosperity by hosting three events under the flagship of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF):

WCEFonline on September 29 and 30, 2020
A WCEF event on April 15, 2021, in the Netherlands and online
WCEF2021 from September 13 to 15, 2021, in Toronto, Canada

The three events will address the choice we face at this critical juncture. We can find our way back to growth by kicking "business as usual" into overdrive—or we can capitalise on a shift that has already started, the shift toward the circular economy, which helps us to thrive in the long term.

WCEFonline will share leading circular economy solutions for building more resilience

The upcoming virtual event WCEFonline will show practical circular economy examples that will help us to seize this unique opportunity to rebuild our economies stronger, greener, and better. Throughout six sessions, WCEFonline will enable the circular community from all over the world to participate in the discussions.

The sessions will provide different lenses through which business leaders and policymakers can assess the risks and opportunities associated with their resource dependence. The key questions will include how the circular economy helps in building more resilient businesses, why sustainable finance is key, and what governments need to focus on now to scale up the circular economy.

The event will include keynotes from Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme; Frans Timmermans, Vice President of the European Commission; Stientje van Veldhoven, the Minister for the Environment of the Netherlands; the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change; and Jyrki Katainen, President of Sitra, among others.

"To ensure a sustainable recovery, we need to take decisive measures that encourage the transition to a carbon-neutral circular economy that prospers in harmony with nature," says Jyrki Katainen, President of Sitra.

A WCEF event in the Netherlands for decision makers

The Netherlands, also an active member in the Platform for Advancing the Circular Economy (PACE), will organise a multi-stakeholder high-level meeting as part of the World Circular Economy Forum to address the links between the circular economy and climate. It will help to prepare for upcoming international climate negotiations and aim to position the circular economy higher on the COP and broader international agenda. The objective is also to broaden the coalition of the willing, build bridges between the public and private sector, and include more developing countries in the global debate on the benefits of circularity. The event will take place both in the Netherlands and online.

"The Netherlands is very much looking forward to hosting a high-level WCEF meeting on the circular economy and climate change, on April 15, 2021. There is no doubt that the transition to a circular economy is crucial in reaching our climate goals. We need to recognise the large and cost-effective contribution that the circular economy can make in building a more sustainable society, especially in the post-COVID-19 world," says Stientje van Veldhoven, Minister for the Environment of the Netherlands.

WCEF2021 will address systemic changes needed to accelerate the circular transition

The landmark circular economy event of the year, the World Circular Economy Forum, will be held in Toronto, Canada. This event will mark the first time the annual forum is held in North America. WCEF2021 will build on the previous events to focus on the cross-cutting issues and topics that are central to economic recovery and the circular shift. WCEF2021 will identify the key actions and systemic changes needed to create the conditions for a thriving global circular economy.

"The work to advance the circular economy must continue, and Canada is looking forward to hosting the World Circular Economy Forum in 2021. We will assemble the world's leading thinkers and innovators on the circular economy to take an in-depth look at opportunities in the North American and global context. This event will showcase the sustainable pathways needed to advance the transition to the circular economy around the world," says the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

More information

Further information on the WCEFonline event

Media contacts: Samuli Laita, Leading Specialist, Communications and Public Affairs, Sitra, samuli.laita@sitra.fi, tel. +358 40 536 8650

Further information on the WCEF event in the Netherlands

Nicolette Rodenburg, Press Officer for Minister for the Environment of the Netherlands, nicolette.rodenburg@minienw.nl, tel. +31 (0)6 - 53 20 08 52

Further information on the WCEF2021 in Canada

Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, ec.media.ec@canada.ca,
tel.+1 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)

Read more about the World Circular Economy Forum.

More information on Finland's work on the circular economy

Mari Pantsar, Director, Carbon-Neutral Circular Economy, Sitra, mari.pantsar@sitra.fi,
tel. +358 294 618 210

Read more about the World Circular Economy Forum.

Read more about Sitra's work on the circular economy.

The circular economy and the World Circular Economy Forum

The Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra is an active fund for the future. We aim to create a fair and sustainable future, in other words, the next era of well-being. We work with partners to ensure that Finland can lead the way in the transition to a fair and competitive carbon-neutral circular economy—a new society in which our everyday lives and well-being are no longer based on excessive consumption and fossil fuel use.

The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) is an annual event that brings together up to 2,000 business leaders, policymakers, and experts from around 100 countries to present the world's best circular economy solutions. WCEF also offers a platform for more focused events and side events, and WCEFonline brings the high-level content available to everyone around the world.

The circular economy is the new paradigm for business, which aims to achieve economic growth through new sustainable business models. According to research from Accenture, the circular economy could generate US$4.5 trillion worth of additional economic output by 2030. The research identifies circular business models that will help decouple economic growth from natural resource consumption while driving greater competitiveness.

Co-hosts

Environment and Climate Change Canada informs Canadians about protecting and conserving our natural heritage and ensuring a clean, safe, and sustainable environment for present and future generations.

Global uptake of the circular economy has increased over the past five years, and momentum is growing in Canada. More and more Canadian companies are testing out new circular business models; Canadian universities are conducting research into different pathways to a more circular economy; and policy initiatives are underway at all levels of government, including the Canada-Wide Action Plan on Zero Plastic Waste. Many Canadians are already participating in the circular economy. The Government of Canada is working to support the businesses and communities creating new economic opportunities that keep the value of our resources in the economy and out of the landfill.

The Government of the Netherlands has set the ambitious target of being fully circular by 2050. This requires global collaboration and accelerating the circular economy agenda together with partners. The government is working with industry, civil-society organisations, knowledge institutions and other authorities to achieve a sustainable economy for the future. In this circular economy, there will be no more waste, as resources will be reused again and again. The government-wide Circular Economy programme sets out what we will need to do to achieve a circular Dutch economy by 2050.

In addition to being responsible for the Government's circular transition, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is committed to improving quality of life, access and mobility in a clean, safe and sustainable environment and enhancing climate adaptation strategies. The Ministry strives to create an efficient network of roads, railways, waterways and airways, effective water management to protect against flooding, and improved air and water quality.

SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada
Related Links

http://www.ec.gc.ca

Journalists for Human Rights (JHR)  announces new Global Affairs funded project to fight COVID-1

$1.5 million project will battle misinformation in 12 countries throughout Africa and the Middle East

TORONTO, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - Today Journalists for Human Rights and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister for International Development, announced a new project to fight COVID-19 through human rights-based journalism in 12 countries across Africa and the Middle East. Funded by Global Affairs Canada, the 15-month, $1.5 million program will train and support local journalists to provide credible information and debunk misinformation on Covid19 and the impact of COVID-19 on women and girls' rights. The project will directly engage the local journalists and indirectly reach their estimated audiences of 22 million people with accurate and gender equitable media coverage on COVID-19 in Mali, Tunisia, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Iraq, Yemen and Mauritania.

"In a pandemic, access to accurate health information can save lives" said Journalists for Human Rights Executive Director, Rachel Pulfer. "Through this project, trusted local journalists across the Global South can and will play a critical role in communicating public health measures while combating what the World Health Organization has termed an "infodemic": an inundation of misinformation and disinformation about COVID-19. The project will also work towards broad public awareness of the gendered impact of covid-19 on women and girls."

Building off experiences working with journalists covering the Ebola outbreak and operating within existing global travel restrictions, JHR will conduct all capacity building activities for journalists online, via mobile phones and through messaging applications. The project aims to bring mainstream public awareness to the impact of COVID-19 on human rights and women and girls' rights, public health measures, guidelines and gender issues.

"To protect the health and safety of Canadians, we have to work to protect the health and safety of people everywhere in the world" said the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development. "Making sure that there are local trusted partners that can help clarify and tease through all of that information is really important. One of the things that we know is that when you are in crisis, people need to look at trusted information sources."

Beginning in March 2020, JHR began pivoting its resources to battle COVID-19. This included a 3 month project extension in South Sudan to promote human rights based journalism with an emphasis on women and girls as well as a series of oversubscribed webinars in Canada on how to recognize misinformation. JHR believes that increased access to credible and inclusive information will contribute to international public health efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 and its impact on human rights.

Our thanks to CNW for sponsoring this announcement

About Journalists for Human Rights

Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) trains journalists worldwide to cover human rights issues ethically and objectively. For 18 years, Canada-based JHR has worked with 16,000+ journalists around the world. Currently JHR operates sector-wide programmes in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria, South Sudan, Mali, Kenya, Jordan, and with Canada's Indigenous communities. For more information, please visit www.jhr.ca

SOURCE Journalists for Human Rights (JHR)

For further information: Rachel Pulfer, Executive Director Journalists for Human Rights, 147 Spadina Avenue #206, Toronto ON MFV 2L7, 416 413 0240 x 206
Related Links

www.jhr.ca


Organization Profile

Journalists for Human Rights (JHR)


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Department of National Defence fined $175,000 under Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999
Environment and Climate Change Canada

COLD LAKE, AB, June 25, 2020 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health, safety, and environment of Canadians. Environment and Climate Change Canada enforces laws that protect Canada's air, water, and natural environment, and we take this responsibility very seriously.

On June 22, 2020, the Department of National Defence pleaded guilty to one charge of contravening the Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations. The Department was sentenced in the Provincial Court of Alberta in St. Paul and fined $175,000 for committing an offence under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. The fine will be directed to the Government of Canada's Environmental Damages Fund, where it will be used to advance environmental and conservation projects often in the same community in which the offence was committed.

In addition to the fine, the Court ordered the Department of National Defence to complete a third-party environmental audit of the Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake and the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range, including a review of the Department's environmental-management systems to ensure compliance with environmental legislation.

An investigation by Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers revealed that the Department of National Defence operated a storage tank system for which an identification number had not been issued. To ensure compliance and reduce the risk of releases of petroleum products into the environment, the Regulations require the owner or operator to identify their storage tank system and obtain an identification number for their system from the Minister of the Environment.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has created a free subscription service to help Canadians stay current with what the Government of Canada is doing to protect our natural environment.

Quick facts
The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 is an important part of Canada's federal environmental legislation aimed at preventing pollution and protecting the environment and human health.
The purpose of the Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations is to reduce the risk of contaminating soil and groundwater due to spills and leaks of petroleum products from storage tank systems.
The Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations establish requirements for systems under federal jurisdiction.
Created in 1995, the Environmental Damages Fund is a Government of Canada program administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada. The Fund ensures that court-awarded penalties are used for projects with positive environmental impacts.

Associated links
Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999
Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations

Environment and Climate Change Canada's Twitter page

Environment and Climate Change Canada's Facebook page

SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada

For further information: Media Relations: Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free), ec.media.ec@canada.ca
Related Links

http://www.ec.gc.ca