Minister Mihychuk visits Calgary to hear directly from leaders about labour market challenges facing Albertans

CALGARY, Dec. 21, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable MaryAnn Mihychuk, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, heard first-hand today of the challenges facing Albertans as they cope with the downturn in their province's economy.

In her first trip to Alberta as minister, Minister Mihychuk, accompanied by the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence and Darshan Kang, M.P. for Calgary Skyview, met with business and economic leaders, and other Calgary municipal leaders in a series of meetings to address the difficulties facing the province, including its rising unemployment rate. While in the city, she also took the time to visit the Calgary Economic Development Office, and also toured a Service Canada office. 

Minister Mihychuk said she sympathizes deeply with those Albertans who are facing such tough times and recognized the efforts they are making to carry on through the challenges.

The Government of Canada is acutely aware of the economic situation in Alberta and is committed to take action to address the employment needs of Albertans and Canadians, said Minister Mihychuk.

During her meeting, Minister Mihychuk also reaffirmed her government's commitment to expanding the Youth Employment Strategy and to improve the EI system which includes better-aligning it with the realities of today's labour market.

Quotes

 "I've listened and heard from Albertans about the labour market challenges they are up against. I am committed to working with the province and employers to help Albertans get the skills they need for good quality jobs and to strengthen training. In today's changing economy, Canadians need more opportunities to improve their skills and upgrade their credentials."
– The Honourable MaryAnn Mihychuk, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour

"It was important for the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour to pay our province a visit and to hear first-hand the difficulties Albertans are facing. Minister Mihychuk can count on my full collaboration to address the employment needs of Albertans."
– The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

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SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected]