Diversity group to assist region in review of services

Over the coming year, the Halton diversity advisory committee is looking to assist the Region in conducting a review of its services and how they're delivered. This was one of the things committee members recently told regional council in a presentation designed to update its members on what the group has been doing and what it plans to focus on in 2006. The organizational review comes as part of the Halton Region Diversity Strategy, a three-year initiative that consists of three phases to help identify, remove and prevent barriers experienced by ethno-racial, cultural, religious and culturally diverse communities in accessing regional services. The committee is already part way through its work for the strategy and has identified short-term actions to better engage Halton's diverse communities. "Halton Region is one of the fastest growing regions in Canada," said Regional Chairman Joyce Savoline, who's also a committee member. "We know how important it is that all Halton residents have access to our programs and services, and the committee's observations are helpful as we look for new ways to reach our diverse

audiences." The committee has been active working in the community for the past three years, including conducting recent public consultation as part of its outreach to diverse groups. The group was established as an advisory body to regional council to assist them in making informed decisions. In addition to Savoline, its members include regional councillors Rick Craven and Mike Lansdown, citizens-at-large and representatives from the school boards, Halton Regional Police Service, multicultural agencies, community groups and faith groups.