A DETAILED EXAMINATION OF PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT TRAINING INITIATIVES IN ONTARIO BETWEEN 1985-99 - A POLITICAL ECONOMY ANALYSIS

Abstract

This paper will examine the role of government in the policy area of public training. Specifically it will look at the three major training initiatives undertaken by the three most recent governments of Ontario. Political Economy Theory will be used to explain the relationship between the state and the labour market, and it can best account for why the particular political ideology of the party in power cannot, and has not independently determined the design or commitment to public training policy in Ontario. Furthermore, the Political Economy Approach will demonstrate that although it may appear to be in the best interest of government to provide the public training to those aged 45+, the type of policies that emerge are ultimately determined by the particular political, economic and social conditions of the time.