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Background

Following a successful bid on a contract involving our residences, Saint Mary’s University signed a certificate of commitment under the Federal Contractors Program (FCP) in 1993. At that time, the FCP required provincially regulated employers with 100 or more employees bidding on federal contracts of $200,000 or more to certify that they would implement employment equity measures. The University submitted an Employment Equity Work plan to the Federal Government in November 1998.  In 2005 the University was notified by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that Saint Mary’s University had been selected for a compliance review under the FCP. In 2007, the University was notified that the compliance review was completed and the University was in compliance with the FCP.

The Federal Contractors Program (FCP) was redesigned as part of the 2012 Federal Budget and the Federal Government’s commitment to reduce regulatory red tape burden for smaller employers. The redesigned program applies now to contractors who receive an initial goods and services contract valued at $1 million or more, an increase from the previous threshold of $200,000. Given that Saint Mary’s University was not awarded a contract above the threshold, Saint Mary’s University was notified in August 2013 that our Certificate of Commitment has been canceled. However, the University would be required to meet the requirements of the FCP if another Certificate of Commitment was signed in the future. While Saint Mary’s University is no longer required to survey its employees and report under the Federal Contractors Program, Saint Mary’s University remains committed to the principles of Employment Equity and promoting a fair and inclusive workplace, free from discriminatory barriers.

What is Employment Equity?

Employment equity seeks to achieve equality by eliminating barriers to employment which have existed for certain groups, particularly Aboriginal people, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities and women.

Equity requires planning for managing change and increasing diversity. The Employment Equity Workforce Survey  is one step in the process. Achieving equity in the workplace means creating a level playing field, where no person is denied employment opportunities for reasons unrelated to ability. The goal is a representative workforce where equality in the work place is a reality. 

Where can I get more information?

For more information or to receive the survey in another format please contact:

In-person, via telephone or email:

Deborah Brothers-Scott
Director, Diversity Inclusion & Wellness
McNally South 129
Ph:(902) 496-8265
Fax: (902) 496-8116
Contact: Deborah Brothers-Scott

All inquiries will be held in confidence.