Youth apprenticeship pilot project for the manufacturing sector

Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education Minister Anna Thistle has announced $100,000 for a new Budget 2003 initiative to help address the skills gap which exists in the manufacturing sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) recently met with Premier Roger Grimes and several ministers, to discuss the findings of a report entitled: Report On The Skills Gap In The Manufacturing Sector. The manufacturing, construction and natural resources sectors employ 37,000 people in this province. The CME estimates that their workforce will require some 1,700 new entrants annually.

The Department of Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education, in partnership with Human Resources Development Canada, recently launched youth apprenticeship pilots in Clarenville and Marystown. Minister Thistle is pleased to extend this pilot project to the St. John�s region with a focus primarily on youth who have career interests in the manufacturing sector.

"Youth apprenticeship is a proven, successful model throughout Canada and the United States. This program allows employers to select, train and monitor the skills development of new employees and gives youth an opportunity to apply first-hand knowledge to career decision-making," said Minister Thistle. "Ultimately we want to provide the best match between the skills employers need and the skills our youth possess."

In addition, $30,000 in seed funding will be provided, through the Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development, to assist the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters in scoping out and developing a plan for a promotional campaign on careers available in this sector.

Media contact: Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Communications, (709) 729-6573.

2003 03 27                                       4:35 p.m.