The Provincial Government is moving forward with its commitment to expand the Career Work Centre (CWC) network throughout the province. Today, the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment announced six new centres will open across the province. Minister Skinner made the announcement today while in Gander to open one of the new locations. The network will be expanded to Placentia, Marystown, Lewisporte, Springdale and St. Anthony.

"Expanding this resource is critical to the advancement of our workforce and providing additional support to employers," said Minister Skinner. "Career Work Centres are an important community-based resource for those currently in the workforce, just beginning their career and for businesses looking to access the latest labour market and human resource information."

The expanded CWC network is part of a series of Budget 2008 labour market initiatives. In addition to the $5.3 million invested in providing improved access to labour market information and career and employment services, the Provincial Government is providing $1.1 million to expand the CWC network across the province.

The CWC offers individuals and employers direct access to career and employment services. This includes providing assistance and training to understand emerging labour market trends. Online tools are available to help clients look for work or research other career options. Employers can benefit by accessing this local resource. They will be able find out the current labour market conditions in the region, province and across Canada, giving them the edge needed to adjust to industry conditions.

"The Gander region will benefit greatly by having direct access to labour market information," said the Honourable Kevin O�Brien, MHA for Gander. "Our economy is rapidly changing and this resource will ensure employers and individuals are prepared for the future."

Later this afternoon, Minister Skinner will also officially open the CWC in Clarenville, further expanding the CWC network.

"I am tremendously pleased that residents of this area will be able to avail of this innovative service to help guide their careers," said the Honourable Ross Wiseman, MHA for Trinity North. "This new career work centre enables individuals to tap into opportunities stemming from the growing labour market both in this region and across our province."

CWC offices are equipped with computers and access to the Internet. Individuals can access these services to write resumes or conduct an on-line job search. Employers can log on to find out the latest in labour market research. A telephone, fax and photocopier are also available at no cost. Daily and weekly newspapers as well as labour market and career materials are provided to assist with job searches and human resource planning.

CWC offices are staffed with career information officers who can help clients take full advantage of the opportunities that exist throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Staff will also provide assistance to clients who want hold a training session or need help with recruitment.

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Photo #1: The Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment, left, is joined by (from L to R) Marguerite Moore, Brian Williams, Deanna Hanson, Sara Rumley, Donna Saunders, Dave Dillon and Carson Saunders to cut the ribbon at the official opening of the Gander Career Work Centre.

Photo #2: The Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment, centre, is joined by (from L to R) Shelley Stead, Christina Smith, Cindy Strong, Ethel Diamond, Crystal Pittman, Marilyn Greene, Greta Dillon, Freeman Barnes, Carson Saunders and Joanne Morgan to cut the ribbon to officially open the Clarenville Career Work Centre.

Media contact:
Ronalda Walsh
Director of Communications
Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment
709-729-0753, 699-7903
ronaldawalsh@gov.nl.ca