News Release

FREDERICTON (CNB) - More than 450 delegates from across the world are meeting in Fredericton this week for the 61st annual conference of the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC).

Delegates are hearing from keynote speakers from across the country speak on the conference theme, Turnarounds: Transformations in Government and Society.

"Transformation in the private or public sector is never a substitute for leadership and skilful management that is internally driven," said Bill Greenlaw, IPAC president. "But transformation needs a vision and a willingness to take risks.

"These IPAC members are from all levels of government: federal, provincial, and municipal, as well as the public sector. They are at this conference to explore innovative strategies and to learn from their colleagues. They represent agencies, boards, Aboriginal communities, universities and non-profit organizations."

Louise Fréchette, former ambassador to the United Nations, spoke about the possibilities of renewing international organizations, and reflected on both the innovations that have happened in the UN, and the obstacles that the organization has surmounted. She said that reform is a process, not an end.

Brian Crowley, founding president of the Atlantic Institute for Market Studies (AIMS), which is an Atlantic Canadian public policy think tank, said that the government retirement policy was developed when there was a labour surplus, but now it needs to be revised to reflect imminent upcoming labour shortages.

Roel Bekker, secretary-general for the Reform of Dutch Government, spoke about government reforms to reduce government expenditures.

Today, guests will hear from Bruce Little, policy analyst and author, about the turnaround in Canada Pension Plan reform. Also featured will be panellists discussing the future of public administration education, and the role of public administration in Africa, among other topics.

On Wednesday, Aug. 26, Justice John Gomery, retired Superior Court judge, will be the keynote speaker on the subject, Turning Around Canada's Dysfunctional Accountability Arrangements.