Light at the end of the tunnel!
by Christine Jensen-Cormier and Suzanne Beaulieu-Gingras
Spousal Employment Coordinators
Finally some good news! The work on the NEW spousal employment database is almost finished. We have made a few experiments and sent the Department another series of recommendations - the last ones we hope. We hope to revise the French version soon, the last stage in the development process.
This new database is far superior to the existing one. For those who are looking for employment, it is easier to use, better adapted to the many professional sectors covered by spouses and partners, and files will remain available as long as candidates wish. Files can also be updated as often as necessary. For the employers, the database is very flexible, permitting searches for candidates according to various criteria such as geographic area.
However, as files cannot be transferred from the existing database to the new one, people will have to re-register. So, be on the lookout. Consult the Association's Web site where you will find the most up-to-date information as soon as we have been informed by the Services Centre, which is responsible for the project (Deborrah Birrell), in particular the database address/site, how to get an access code, and the date from which you will be able to register.
Participation by spouses and partners will be crucial to the success of this important project. We will need to quickly have a few hundred files registered, both for positions in Ottawa as well as those abroad. Update your curriculum vitae, and be ready for "D" Day. Talk to those spouses and partners you know. This service must be "sold" to the greatest possible number of candidates before we promote it to departmental managers. Without you, we can't do anything.
The latest developments regarding reciprocity agreements
A recent note received from Deborah Birrell, who is responsible for spousal employment questions in the Services Centre (SERV), provides the latest developments on employment arrangements and reciprocity agreements. Don't hesitate to get in touch with Deborah Birrell for further information.
"I wanted to inform you of what is happening regarding negotiations of employment arrangements and agreements between Canada and other countries. As you know, this is a permanent, on-going activity. At a meeting with Jean Lauzière (XDC) on October 17, I was able to go over the current dossiers as well as the questions presenting a problem and possible solutions. The cases of France and Germany, where delays in obtaining work permits are very long, are being followed very closely. The Department will delay issuing work permits in Canada for these countries if these delays continue. Negotiations are continuing with Austria, Italy and Serbia. Finally an agreement has recently been signed with Panama..." We have now signed arrangements/agreements with 56 different countries.