Indigenous people in Ontario to get job skills and experience

KENORA, ON, Aug. 19, 2017 /CNW/ - A strong economy depends on a strong middle class where everybody has a real and fair chance to succeed. Despite being the fastest growing segment of the country's population, Indigenous people continue to be underrepresented in Canada's workforce.

That's why today, the Honourable Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora, on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, announced funding to help Indigenous people in Ontario get the skills and work experience they need to find and keep good jobs.

Up to 72 participants will take part in a new project, which will be delivered by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) thanks to $2.2-million in funding through the Government of Canada's Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF). This project, called Skilled Employment Energy Stream, will help Indigenous people across Ontario get critical skills and experience that will lead to long-term, meaningful employment. In addition, participants will receive training in the energy sector and in the fields of electrical, welding and industrial maintenance. The project also brings together multiple partners from industry, post-secondary institutions and First Nation communities to ensure that more Indigenous people can join the workforce.

Quotes

"Breaking down barriers to employment for Indigenous people will ensure that everyone has a real and fair chance at success. Helping Indigenous people get the skills and training they need to find good jobs will help grow the economy and strengthen the middle class and help those working hard to join it."
? The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour 

"This is an extremely important announcement for the Métis Nation of Ontario's Skilled Employment Energy strategy. Here in the riding of Kenora, there is a strong Indigenous population. This investment will help Métis people across the province, including in Northwestern Ontario, as we strengthen the economy and build a better future by providing good jobs."
? The Honourable Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora

"We are thrilled that Government of Canada funding will help support the Skilled Employment Energy Stream project. Thanks to this funding, we can support more Métis people develop essential skills and find good jobs."
? France Picotte, Acting President, Métis Nation of Ontario

Quick Facts

Over the next decade, 400,000 Indigenous youth will be preparing to enter the workforce.

The SPF receives $50 million in funding per year, and has leveraged approximately $250 million (cash and in-kind) from partnerships since its inception.

From April 2010 to March 2017, the SPF has served more than 32,000 Indigenous clients, which included  helping over 12,000 individuals get jobs in natural resources, trades and the health sector and assisting 1,500 individuals to return to school.

Associated Link

Skills and Partnership Fund

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SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada