OTTAWA, ONTARIO, November 23, 2010 - With technology becoming more and more intertwined in Canadians' everyday lives, supporting digital skills development will be key to our future economic success. The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, delivered that message as part of her update on Canada's Digital Economy Strategy development at an industry conference earlier today.
"For Canada to be a leader in a rapidly developing, global digital economy, Canadians need to have strong digital skills," said Minister Finley. "That's why the Government of Canada will develop and implement a strategy that will help us work in collaboration with our industry, education and government partners to build a skilled workforce and a stronger Canada."
As Canada heads towards economic recovery, new digital skills needs are being added to existing labour market challenges. Recent public consultations on the digital economy will help the Government develop a strategy to address many broad challenges.
The conference, entitled Connections, Content and Consumers: Towards a National Digital Strategy for Canada, was hosted by the Canadian Chapter of the International Institute of Communications (IIC Canada).
Mr. Bernard Lord, Chair of IIC Canada, welcomed the Minister's remarks. "The Government of Canada's Digital Economy Strategy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to chart the path Canadians will take towards prosperity in the 21st century," said Mr. Lord. "Networks and connections will enable that prosperity, but it will be the digital skills, hard work and inspiration of Canadians that will maximize it."
While elements of digital skills training can be found in existing Government of Canada programming, developing an overarching Digital Economy Strategy will improve our innovation and competitiveness and help prepare Canadians for the jobs of tomorrow.
For more information on the Government of Canada's Digital Economy Strategy, please visit: www.digitaleconomy.gc.ca.
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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
The digital economy is the term used to describe the network of suppliers and users of digital technologies that enable everyday life. Digital technologies are critical to almost every activity in our economy and society. These technologies enable businesses to be innovative and productive; help governments provide services; and allow citizens to interact, transmit and share information and knowledge.
The March 2010 Speech from the Throne and Budget 2010 both established the Government of Canada's objective to develop a digital economy strategy for Canada. Industry Canada, in collaboration with Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) and Heritage Canada, recently consulted with Canadians on five areas:
- capacity to innovate using digital technologies;
- building a world-class digital infrastructure;
- growing the information and communications technology industry;
- digital media: creating Canada's digital content advantage; and
- building digital skills for tomorrow.
HRSDC is leading the digital skills component of the strategy. Some of the broad based themes that emerged from the HRSDC consultations include:
- support for digital skills training and mentorships;
- an emphasis on recognizing international credentials and better integrating new Canadians into the labour market;
- a need for improved labour market information;
- a need for dialogue with the provinces and territories on digital skills training and education; and
- support for research and innovative initiatives related to digital learning.
Governments, employers and educational institutions all have a role to play in addressing the unique skills challenges of the digital economy.
