CAMPBELLTON, NB, May 14, 2013 /CNW/ - Both employers and workers in the manufacturing sector will benefit from a project that will promote essential skills development in the workplace as a result of funding provided by the Government of Canada. The announcement was made by the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
"Our government's top priorities are creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity," said Minister Valcourt. "That's why our government makes strategic investments in organizations such as the Community Business Development Corporation Restigouche: to ensure more Canadians have the essential skills required to succeed in today's economy."
The Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC) Restigouche is receiving over $1.9 million from the federal Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program.
The CBDC's research project will examine how investments in literacy and essential skills enhance the performance of small and medium-size businesses in the manufacturing sector. As a result of this research project, a tool will be made available to employers to help them assess how investments in literacy and essential skills training can enhance their business performance.
"We are very thankful for the Government of Canada's support and investment in our organization," said Michel Guitard, Executive Director of the CBDC Restigouche. "This research project will help create partnerships between our organization and organizations in 10 provinces. This will allow the recruitment of 40 small and medium-size enterprises and close to 4 000 employees who will be participating in the research."
Economic Action Plan 2013 introduces a number of measures to connect Canadians with available jobs and equip them with the skills and training they need. These include the Canada Job Grant, creating opportunities for apprentices and providing support to under-represented groups such as persons with disabilities, youth, Aboriginal people and newcomers.
Backgrounder
The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills
In 2007, the Government of Canada created the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES) to provide adult Canadians with the knowledge and skills they need to enter and succeed in the job market.
Through the OLES, the Government works in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, employers and community organizations to provide Canadians with the tools and resources they need to take advantage of job opportunities, contribute to their communities and share in the country's prosperity.
OLES provides funding through the Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program.
For more information about the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills, visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca.
SOURCE: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
For further information (media only):
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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