Available in print for order (see SOURCE) and online for download.
Excerpts from the report:
In the fall of 2002, a random sample of 400 Canadians came together in ten different locations across Canada to participate in a structured dialogue on their vision for their country. In articulating their vision for Canada and choosing actions to make that vision concrete,
Canadians identified challenges that demand redesigned policies and new investments. Social policy architects will have to grapple with these challenges:
EQUITABLE ACCESS TO EDUCATION AND TRAINING
This is citizens' linchpin in linking support for market-based and social equity approaches: accessible, affordable education is essential to fight poverty and social exclusion and to achieve a productive, innovative and competitive economy. Clearly there is a gap between current reality and citizens' vision. New policies are needed to achieve greater equality of access to postsecondary education and reduce inequality of opportunity.
A WORKING SOCIETY WITH A LIVING WAGE
Again, citizens' vision and reality are not in sync &em; too many Canadians work full time and yet are still in or close to poverty and exclusion. Citizens agreed on the problem and argued for a variety of remedies: increases to minimum wages, low wage supplements, housing supports, child care subsidies, health benefits, etc.
COMMUNITY-BASED, ACCOUNTABLE PROGRAMS
Coordination, collaboration and integration of policies, program design and delivery across government silos is a tall order for policy-makers, especially given that citizens are also looking for flexibility to tailor programs to address local needs and opportunities.
DISTINCTIVE SOCIAL PROGRAMS COEXISTING WITH GROWING CONTINENTAL AND GLOBAL INTEGRATION
Notwithstanding their appreciation for the economic benefits of Canada's close economic relations with the United States, citizens demand that governments chart an independent course on social policies.