The world of work and the job industry are subject to perpetual changes, which in turn are dependent on numerous socioeconomic factors that have marked our societies of the 21st century.

Today, we can well imagine the extent to which the personal and professional qualities of the various individuals active in the human resource field are being solicited. The economic context, the demographic situation, cultural diversity, the openness of markets, the evolution of skills and trades, large-scale retirements, and shortages of manpower, professionals and managerial personnel are all challenges that you are called upon to take up on a daily basis.

In this sense, gatherings such as the World Human Resources Congress are ideal opportunities to reinforce partnership relations and to pool your strengths, knowledge, experience and new ideas with a view to continually actualizing the mission that you are pursuing for the great benefit of thousands of employees and employers.

Your mission is decisive. It contributes to renewing our economic strength, to fostering the creation of wealth and to ensuring the development of our human capital, which is invaluable for our common well-being. You deserve to be commended for your exceptional work and commitment.

On behalf of the Government of Québec, I am pleased to join the Conseil des associations en ressources humaines and the Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés in welcoming you to Montréal this September. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a profitable and inspiring 13th World Human Resources Congress.

The Premier of Quebec,

Jean Charest