Human Resources, Labour and Employment
October 6, 2008

Youth Dialogue Sessions Conclude

Regional deliberative dialogue sessions involving young adults from Newfoundland and Labrador have now concluded. The dialogue sessions are a key component in the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador�s development of a Youth Retention and Attraction Strategy.

"Young adults actively participated in these sessions to help our government gather the information we need to assist in the development of policies and initiatives for the future success of our province," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment. "I want to thank all of the participants for sharing their opinions and ideas."

Canadian Policy Research Networks (CPRN) have been contracted to conduct the 13 deliberative dialogue sessions. These interactive sessions were held across Newfoundland and Labrador and in Ontario and Alberta in September and early October. Approximately 500 young adults aged 18-30 participated in these sessions, bringing forth their opinions and ideas that will help identify the values and options they consider when considering a future in Newfoundland and Labrador. In Budget 2008, the Provincial Government committed $1.38 million to develop a Youth Retention and Attraction Strategy. The strategy will help to strengthen the labour market and counter the impact of youth out-migration.

"Today�s young adults are actively engaged in determining the future direction of our province," said Minister Skinner. "The information gathered through these dialogue sessions will make sure that young adults have a strong voice and leading role in building the best and most prosperous province in the country."

In November, a provincial youth summit is to be held in St. John�s. Participants will be selected from the regional dialogue sessions. During the summit, youth will discuss issues from a provincial perspective. Forty decision-makers from industry, labour, business and the community will attend the summit to hear directly from the participants. In the coming weeks, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will launch a web page for other youth to share their opinions.

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

2008 10 06                                                    10:30 a.m.

 


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