TRURO, NOVA SCOTIA, NOVEMBER 8, 2010-Aboriginal people will get the skills they need to find and keep jobs as a result of a Government of Canada-funded project. 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.
"Our government is helping Aboriginal people get the skills and training they need in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Armstrong. "Investing in training is one of the most important measures our government is taking to protect Canada and its workers today, while strengthening the long-term competitiveness of our economy."
The Native Council of Nova Scotia (NCNS) will receive support for job placement projects and to help Aboriginal people return to school or find full-time employment. The projects will also create strong partnerships between government, industry, educational and training institutions, and community service providers.
"The NCNS welcomes the signing of our Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy agreement with the federal government," said Chief Grace Conrad of the Native Council of Nova Scotia. "This agreement will enable the NCNS to continue our long-term commitment to building partnerships and providing quality employment and training services to benefit the largest Aboriginal population-the rural and urban Mi'kmaq and other Aboriginal people residing off reserve in Nova Scotia."
The Government of Canada is providing over $1 million for these projects through its Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy. The Strategy is part of a government-wide approach to help First Nations, Métis, and Inuit secure sustainable and meaningful employment.
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This news release is available in alternative formats on 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
The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Stategy (ASETS) is an integrated approach to Aboriginal labour market programming that will link training to labour market demand and ensure that the growing Aboriginal population is able to fully participate in economic opportunities. Through ASETS, the Government of Canada will be providing Aboriginal Agreement Holders with $1.6 billion over five years.
ASETS is the partnership- and results-based successor strategy to the Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy. Implemented in 2010, ASETS focuses on three strategic priorities: supporting skills development; fostering partnerships with the private sector and the provinces and territories; and putting emphasis on accountability and results. The Government of Canada is working with partners across the country to facilitate the transition and planning process.
