Canadians have a say in financial literacy

The Task Force on Financial Literacy has launched a comprehensive national consultation process by issuing a consultation paper that addresses important questions about how Canadians make financial decisions.

“Financial literacy is essential for all Canadians,” said Donald A. Stewart, Chair of the Task Force. “It can improve the quality of life for Canadians and their families, regardless of their income level, and make Canada stronger, more competitive and more prosperous. ”

The discussion paper, Targeting Excellence, released today highlights pressing issues that all Canadians need to consider. Debt management, savings and investments, retirement planning, and fraud prevention are among the top nine topics on which Canadians will be consulted.

Canadians will also have an exceptional opportunity to communicate their financial needs and aspirations in writing, online or in person during the consultation sessions to be held across the country. The Targeting Excellence document can serve as a starting point for those who wish to participate in the process.

From April 6 to May 13, Working Group members will hold consultation sessions in each province and territory, in Calgary, Charlottetown, Halifax, Iqaluit, Moncton, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec, St. John’s, Saskatoon, Toronto, Vancouver , Whitehorse, Winnipeg and Yellowknife.

“We need to listen to people from all walks of life to ensure that the views, values ​​and experiences of Canadians are reflected in the recommendations we make about a national strategy to improve the financial literacy of Canadians, “said L. Jacques Menard, Vice-Chair of the Task Force.

Context

Since its creation by the federal Minister of Finance in June 2009, the Task Force has been reviewing the state of financial literacy initiatives in Canada and abroad, talking to financial literacy experts and developing list of key issues to be brought to the attention of Canadians during their public consultations. The 13-member Group from the business community, the education sector, community organizations and academia will provide advice, recommendations and a concrete action plan to the federal Minister of Finance. December 2010.

The Working Group defines financial literacy as ” having the knowledge, skills and confidence to make responsible financial decisions” .

“Our goal is to find a way for Canada to take advantage of the multitude of programs and resources that currently exist for all Canadians to benefit from, to put in place a framework for increased collaboration and to establish links to share or use existing expertise and approaches, and to come up with a truly Canadian solution, “said Stewart.

Canadians can fax, e-mail or mail submissions by April 30, participate in public consultation sessions, or contribute to an online forum.

“The Task Force wants to hear from as many interested Canadians as possible,” said Stewart. “We look forward to hearing from citizens and organizations in all regions of the country. ”

Dates and Cities – Public Consultation Sessions