Mr. Speaker, education is the cornerstone of economic development in modern societies.
To succeed in competitive world markets we must continue to invest in people. Canada spends some $55 billion per year on education and training. The level of our investment is world class but the relevance and equality of Canadian education are being questioned.
On February 28 the Minister of Human Resources Development met with provincial ministers. The federal government supported the national agenda announced last fall by the Council of Ministers of Education in its Victoria joint declaration.
This government is working closely with the council to address issues facing Canadian education. We look forward to the council's national consultation on education scheduled for May 26 to May 29 in Montreal in which over 300 participants will represent all partners in education.