Skills Task Force Forum to Focus on Attraction and Retention Initiatives

In support of continued implementation of the Skills Task Force report, All the Skills to Succeed (2007), the Department of Education is holding a Skills Task Force forum on Wednesday, March 16, at the Sheraton Hotel in St. John’s, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

The Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education, will give opening remarks, and is encouraging anyone with an interest in skilled trades, particularly young men and women who are currently employed, or seeking employment, within the skilled trades sector to attend. Registration is free.

“The achievements noted at the first Skills Task Force update forum two years ago illustrated the successful collaboration of stakeholders and their dedication to building a qualified and skilled workforce,” said Minister Burke. “It also prompted us to sponsor this second forum to provide a further update and to discuss ideas on how to increase labour force participation, better connect people to current areas of high demand, and build on a labour climate that both retains those currently employed and attracts others from outside our jurisdiction. The labour market is changing, and we want to hear from our stakeholders to ensure our programs continue to prepare our graduates to respond to industry needs.”

Minister Burke noted that since 2006, the Provincial Government has allocated more than $50 million in the areas of apprenticeship, science and technology, programming, training and infrastructure, and these investments are seeing tangible results. For example, over the past five years, the number of registered apprentices has increased by 143 per cent, while the number of Red Seal certificates issued has increased by 71 per cent.

“People are getting the message that a career in skilled trades can be exciting and lucrative,” said Minister Burke. “We must keep that momentum going to ensure we are well-positioned to compete nationally and internationally for the skilled individuals we need to ensure our future prosperity.”

For more information on the Skills Task Force forum, or to register, visit www.gov.nl.ca/edu.

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2011 03 11                                                                         11:50 a.m.