MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO, July 15, 2009—Young graduates are set to benefit from a project supported by the Government of Canada to help them develop careers in a wide range of occupations and industries known as the supply chain sector. Mr. Bob Dechert, Member of Parliament for Mississauga–Erindale, today made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
“The Government of Canada is dedicated to making Canada’s workforce the best educated, most skilled and most flexible in the world,” said Mr. Dechert. “To demonstrate this commitment, we are pleased to support the Career Focus Project, which will help younger workers get recruited in the supply chain industry, become aware of existing opportunities and build exciting careers.”
As part of this project, the Canadian Supply Chain Sector Council will receive $684,153 to engage the employer community and find internship opportunities for participants. The Sector Council will also conduct outreach activities among various under‑represented groups, including Aboriginal communities, to raise awareness of the supply chain sector and the opportunities within it. In addition, a Web-based application process will be implemented for the benefit of employers and employees.
The Career Focus Project will help create a more skilled workforce and, at the same time, encourage supply chain sector firms to continue to recruit during the current economic downturn. Approximately 50 new graduates are expected to benefit. Lessons learned and recommendations for future youth-oriented programs will be included in a final report.
Through the Sector Council Program, the Government of Canada is working with the private sector to enhance workers’ skills, invest in skills development and promote workplace learning and training. The Government of Canada supports sector councils in key areas of the economy, including automotive, aviation, biotechnology, environment, mining, petroleum and steel.
The Government underscored its commitment to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers in its Economic Action Plan. A key component of the Plan is to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers through skills development.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
