BROCKVILLE — The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario have signed a memorandum of agreement that commits the two governments to exploring joint public service delivery, the Honourable Joe Volpe, federal Minister for Human Resources and Skills Development, and Jim Watson, provincial Minister of Consumer and Business Services, announced today.

"This agreement is another important step to finding ways for governments at all levels to collaborate in providing services that are responsive to the needs of Canadians - whether that is at service counters, through the Internet or over the phone," said Minister Volpe. "It lays the groundwork for future collaboration with all provinces and territories to improve the quality and delivery of public services right across the country."

"This memorandum marks significant progress in improving the delivery of important public services that all citizens depend upon, and is an excellent example of governments working together," said Minister Watson. "Ontario has demonstrated considerable leadership in service delivery and in drafting this agreement."

The Honourable Joe Jordan, MP for Leeds-Grenville and Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board with special emphasis on Regulatory Reform, also welcomed it. "This agreement will ensure that we will reduce red tape and improve service delivery for all citizens in Ontario," he said.

The agreement commits the two governments to exploring collaborative service delivery initiatives that will:

• improve electronic service delivery;
• co-ordinate emergency management systems;
• integrate inspections, investigations and enforcement in areas such as workplace health and safety, environmental assessment and food safety;
• improve immigration services;
• develop a new, integrated labor market system; and
• co-ordinate the approach to the auto sector.

The Collaborative Seniors' Portal is one example of what cooperation between the three levels of government can achieve. The web portal provides seniors in the Brockville area with improved access to information and services from all levels of government and service providers through a single online gateway. "Today's announcement is another example of governments working together to ensure that seniors get efficient, effective services where and when they need them," said John Gerretsen, Ontario's Minister Responsible for Seniors.