Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Sustainable Communities Program
The visions and goals of this Assembly revolve around healthy and environmentally sustainable communities. Communities that are economically, socially and environmentally sustainable do not just happen. They require comprehensive planning and skilled attention in many areas, from full-cost accounting to building community spirit, developing self-sufficiency in leadership, and the encouragement of a strong local economy that meets its basic needs utilizing largely local resources.
The sustainable communities program at Aurora College could draw upon several of its existing courses, perhaps slightly modified, as well as others added to round out the need for a comprehensive curriculum. Graduates would add considerably to the community capacity and would
be inspired to return to their communities to practise their skills and inspire others. The committee looks forward to discussing and incorporating such a program into the 2009–2012 business planning process.
Mr. Chair, that concludes the committee’s report. We’d like to thank our committee staff, Mr. Collinson and Ms. Bennett, for all their hard work. Thank you, Mr. Chair.