ST. JOHN'S, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, JUNE 6, 2010—At the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum, Mr. Ed Komarnicki, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and to the Minister of Labour, today encouraged Canadians to take advantage of apprenticeship opportunities and build successful careers.
“Our government is helping Canadians develop the skills they need to build a better future for themselves and their families and for Canadian businesses to compete in the global market,” said Mr. Komarnicki, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “Completing apprenticeship training enables certified journeypersons to work almost anywhere in Canada.”
The conference, entitled “Apprenticeship – The Framework for Canada’s Renewable Resource,” brought together approximately 450 people to discuss how apprenticeship can help improve the Canadian workforce. Panelists represented multiple industries and interests, including provincial apprenticeship authorities, sector councils, unions, training organizations and other organizations involved in apprenticeship—a strong example of partnership.
The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of investing in skills training for Canadians, demonstrating its support through grants, tax credits, the Red Seal Program, sector councils, and support for training programs. As the economy recovers, skills shortages will be a significant challenge in Canada. The Government has several measures in place to address this issue and to foster and develop an educated, skilled and flexible workforce.
Apprentices can receive up to $4,000 in grants from the Government of Canada. The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant is a $1,000 grant for registered apprentices who successfully complete their first or second year/level of an apprenticeship program in a designated Red Seal trade. Under Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Apprenticeship Completion Grant is a $2,000 grant for apprentices who complete their training in a designated Red Seal trade and received their journeyperson certification. Red Seal certification is a nationally recognized standard for skilled trades that boosts tradespeople’s ability to work almost anywhere in Canada.
The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is a sector council that plays a leadership role in the field of apprenticeship. Sector councils are national partnership organizations that bring together business, labour and educational stakeholders. Operating at arm’s length from the Government of Canada, they are a platform for stakeholders to share ideas, concerns and perspectives about human resources and skills issues, and to find solutions that benefit their sector.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For more information, please visit Human Resources and Skills Development Canada’s Web site at www.hrsdc.gc.ca. Apprentices can apply for the Apprenticeship Grants at www.servicecanada.gc.ca/apprenticeship.
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
