Additional Workforce Transition Support for Magna Employees

Employees affected by the closure of Magna-Precision Finished Components earlier this year will receive more transition support from the province.

Since the announcement of the closure in December 2008, the Department of Labour and Workforce Development, in partnership with the federal government and community organizations, has been providing transition services for displaced employees. The support includes developing a return-to-work action plan that provides career counselling, job search and resume writing tools, labour market information and skill upgrading opportunities such as literacy, numeracy and computer training.

In addition to transition support, the department will provide $387,000 to retrain employees who opted to accept a salary continuance package. The package provides normal salary and benefits, with access to provincially supported training programs, but employees will not be eligible for Employment Insurance and EI training programs. When the salary continuance package expires, employees will be able to access Employment Insurance and its training support. Of the 218 displaced Magna employees, 195 have chosen the continuance option.

"Without this investment, the majority of the individuals affected by this unfortunate closure would not qualify for training and skill development support while they are collecting continuance," said Labour and Workforce Development Minister Marilyn More.

"Now, all former Magna employees will be able to access support and training opportunities so they can be equipped with the tools they need to return to work, no matter what severance option they chose. This further demonstrates government's commitment to training and skills development."

The department has partnered with the Northside Economic Development Assistance Corporation in North Sydney to administer the funds. Continuance employees will have to meet criteria to be eligible for funding, which will cover tuition and the cost of books.

As of June 30, more than 150 individual needs assessments were completed with displaced Magna workers. Nine essential skills programs were approved, including basic computer skills and a math refresher for trades and GED preparation. Some of the workers participated in a three-week Industrial Mechanic Trade Refresher course offered with the Nova Scotia Community College. The program helped some displaced workers obtain Certificates of Qualification.

"The support offered through the department provides many options to displaced workers looking to re-enter the workforce," said Ms. More. "It is government's hope that these workers will be able to use their new skills to begin their next career close to home."