TRURO, NOVA SCOTIA, SEPTEMBER 8, 2010 — Nova Scotians will get help improving their literacy and essential skills as a result of the Government of Canada’s support to the Literacy Association of Nova Scotia. Mr. Scott Armstrong, Member of Parliament for Cumberland–Colchester–Musquodoboit Valley, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. He also took the opportunity to mark International Literacy Day.
“International Literacy Day recognizes the importance of people having the literacy and essential skills they need to build better futures for themselves and their communities,” said Mr. Armstrong. “As Canada moves towards economic recovery, our government continues to invest in initiatives that are helping Nova Scotians build these fundamental skills that are so vital to preparing for and succeeding in the jobs of the future.”
Through the Government of Canada’s Office of Literacy and Essential Skills, the Literacy Association of Nova Scotia will receive $686,034 in funding for its project entitled Supporting Literacy and Essential Skills in Nova Scotia. This funding will allow the Association to continue working with its partners to develop tools, knowledge and networks that will help families and adults in the province improve these critical skills.
In addition to providing funding and conducting research, the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills works with partners in federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as non-profit organizations across Canada, to help employers, practitioners and trainers integrate literacy and essential skills into their training programs.
Established in 1965 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, International Literacy Day is celebrated on September 8 with the goal of raising awareness about the importance of literacy and other essential skills around the world.
- 30 -
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
About the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills
The Government of Canada created the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills as a centre of expertise to help improve the literacy and essential skills of adult Canadians.
While Canada currently faces economic uncertainty, skills shortages remain a significant challenge. With a budget of over $38 million in 2010–2011, the Government of Canada, through the Office, is investing in initiatives that will help ensure that Canadians have the literacy and essential skills they need to participate fully in the labour market and in their communities.
About the organization
Founded in 1992, the Literacy Association of Nova Scotia is a not-for-profit charitable umbrella organization that provides a provincial forum for organizations and people to work together so that every adult has literacy and essential skills learning opportunities. This is accomplished by raising awareness, promoting accessible programs for all, and collaborating with other organizations and individuals to support and celebrate learning, find solutions and make connections.
