We will enhance the capacity of citizens and communities to access career and employment assistance services by supporting initiatives such as community based and community operated resource centers. Our ability to deliver programs and services to Nova Scotians may be affected by new and emerging issues. We will work to ensure that research on relevant topics provides us with a better understanding of the ways in which we can help Nova Scotians participate in both their workplaces and their communities. We will continue to consult with citizens, clients and communities to more effectively tailor programs and services to the needs of Nova Scotians. To fulfill our mission, HRDC needs to recruit and retain staff with the skills, knowledge and expertise required by an increasingly complex work environment.
Several challenges exist.
Well-qualified current and potential 11 employees are increasingly attracted to careers outside the public service. A significant percentage of our staff plan to retire within the next decade, and our current employees do not yet reflect the full cultural diversity of our population. Effective succession planning will ensure that Nova Scotians will continue to be served by skilled, knowledgeable staff who are committed to excellence and innovation. The department will develop and extend innovative human resource practices that help to recruit, support, and empower a diverse and flexible workforce. We will help staff adjust to current or future workplace changes by fostering teamwork, continuous learning, and personal and professional growth.