All 12 community inclusion networks across the province have now been integrated into their respective regional service commissions.

Under local governance reforms that took effect Jan. 1, the commissions are now responsible for regional leadership on matters such as community development and transportation.

Since 2011, the networks have been a component of the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation’s poverty reduction plan.

During the coming months, the community inclusion networks and regional service commissions will be developing plans for programs that meet the needs of their respective regions. The Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation will continue providing the resources necessary for the networks’ operations.

Social Development Minister Dorothy Shephard, who is also minister responsible for the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation said “I commend the community inclusion networks, their local partner organizations, volunteers and all the participants who have been active in their communities and who, year after year, succeeded in bringing together citizens, groups and other partners to help their fellow citizens. We are looking forward to seeing their valuable work thrive under the umbrella of the regional service commissions.”