Aboriginal women also have lower incomes and are less likely to be in the labour force. In 2000 their median income was $12,300, about $5,000 less than for non-aboriginal women.
Responding to the challenges I've have just mentioned requires the efforts of all sectors of society, including provinces, territories, and municipalities, as well as employers, employees, and the labour movement. The Government of Canada also plays a key role in this area, primarily through the provision of income support programs, tax benefits, and transfers to provinces and other partners. In the interests of time, I won't detail all of these programs and initiatives.
I'll now turn the floor over to Barbara Glover.