November 11, 2013
Ottawa – The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, congratulated George Cope, President and CEOof Bell Canada and BCE Inc., on today’s announcement that the communications company will join Veteran Affairs Canada’s Hire a Veteran initiative and give Veterans access to new opportunities with the company.
“I applaud Bell Canada for recognizing the value of giving priority to Canada’s Veterans when they are hiring new employees,” said Minister Fantino. “By joining our Hire a Veteran initiative, they are affirming what we already know—Canada’s men and women in uniform are well-trained and accomplished individuals with the skills and experience to be a real asset to any organization. ”
“Bell has a long and proud tradition of support for Canada’s military men and women. With many Veterans already working at Bell, we know firsthand that they bring skills, focus and discipline to the table,” said George Cope, President and CEO of Bell Canada and BCE Inc. “We’re pleased to join with Minister Fantino and Veterans Affairs Canada in assisting those who have so proudly served Canada.” Bell Canada is Canada's largest communications company, providing a comprehensive and innovative suite of broadband communication services to residential and business customers in Canada.
“This is a win-win partnership,” said Minister Fantino. “It helps those who stood up for Canada access meaningful new careers and Bell Canada gets access to exceptional potential employees. Canada’s Veterans have unique training and experience which match the business models and programming of so many Canadian companies. I urge others to follow Bell Canada’s example and hire Veterans.”
The announcement follows Minister Fantino’s tabling of new legislation intended to provide medically released Veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who were injured in service to Canada the top level of priority consideration for job openings in the public service.
This partnership with Bell Canada builds upon the Department’s Veterans Transition Action Plan, launched last fall. The plan consists of new measures for cutting red tape for Veterans, enhancements to service delivery, post-military career opportunities for Veterans, ground-breaking research on the needs of releasing Canadian Armed Forces personnel, and enhanced cultural awareness.
Through Hire a Veteran and the Veterans Transition Advisory Council, Veterans Affairs Canada is working hand in hand with corporate Canada to match the world-class skills and expertise of CAF members and Veterans with meaningful career opportunities in the private sector. The council includes representatives from leading national companies who work to raise awareness of the skill sets Veterans have to offer to the private sector and improve the transition from military to civilian employment.
For more information on Veterans Affairs Canada’s programs and services, visit veterans.gc.ca.
