Better Access to Workforce for Aboriginal and Mi'kmaq Nova Scotians

The province is working to connect more aboriginal and Mi'kmaq Nova Scotians with employers and career opportunities.

This is one of the topics being discussed in workshops across the province today, Oct. 8. Workshop locations include Bridgewater, Coldbrook, Dartmouth, Truro and Sydney. Other topics include apprenticeship, adult literacy and labour market information.

Labour and Workforce Development Minister Mark Parent will open the Truro workshop, where he will comment on workforce demographics, challenges and solutions.

"Aboriginal and Mi'kmaq Nova Scotians are a tremendous asset to the workforce in this province, but unfortunately, their skills and talents are under used," said Mr. Parent."By working together more effectively, we can help connect youth to exciting and rewarding career opportunities that will fuel the economic growth of our province."

The workshops provide the opportunity for government to talk with aboriginal leaders and others about ways to help young aboriginals find meaningful careers in the workforce. These discussions will help form an Integrated Labour Market Strategy to focus on bridging gaps in initiatives, programs and service delivery for aboriginal people.

"While Nova Scotia's overall population is aging and in decline, the Mi'kmaq community is young and growing quickly, with 50 per cent of the population under the age of 25," said Mr. Parent. "These youth are a significant part of the future of the workforce in this province.

"By developing closer working relationships with employers and government, we can ensure aboriginal youth both on and off-reserve get the information they need about training and employment opportunities here at home."

The workshops are hosted by the Department of Labour and Workforce Development in partnership with the Aboriginal Human Resource Development Agreement Holders, Aboriginal Peoples Training and Employment Commission, and the Mi'kmaq Employment/Training Secretariat.