Advanced Education and Skills
July 24, 2015

Funding for Work Skills Strengthens Communities

Targeted Initiative for Older Workers Program Provides Valuable Skills and Work Experience

The Department of Advanced Education and Skills is now accepting proposals to deliver projects under the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program, to assist older workers entering the workforce.

“The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program supports the communities and workforce action plans under our Population Growth Strategy. It is another example of how the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with the Federal Government, remains focused on increasing employment opportunities for all residents. As the Provincial Government continues to promote ways to take advantage of emerging opportunities, we remain committed to our workforce and this program demonstrates our vision for the contribution that older workers can make to a strong economy.”
- The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills.

The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program provides individuals with valuable skills and work experience to help them secure long-term, meaningful employment. Approvals of projects are based on applications through a Request for Proposals that focuses on criteria such as communities affected by significant downsizing or closures, the number of older workers aged 55-64 in the application area, the value of training and work experience and labour market information.

“I believe that ambition is ageless and this program supports older adults to learn new skills and continue to contribute to the paid workforce. As an ‘older’ independent business owner I understand the importance of continuing to work and also the importance of hiring people of all ages.”
- Shirley Letto, L’Anse au Clair, Member, Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors

Projects should be linked to local economic development plans and initiatives and involve a minimum of 25 hours per week of employment programming. Activities may include:

  • vocational and/or learning assessments;
  • basic skills upgrading;
  • skills training; mentoring;
  • work experience;
  • preparation for self-employment;
  • job development and job search services; and
  • employment counselling.

A guideline document for the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program can be obtained at www.aes.gov.nl.ca/findajob/tiow.html or:
        Department of Advanced Education and Skills
        Employment and Training Programs Division
        P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6
        Telephone: (709) 729-1729
        Email: TIOW@gov.nl.ca

The deadline for submission of proposals is August 7, 2015.

Live Here, Work Here, Belong Here, A Population Growth Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador, 2015-2025 is the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s 10-year plan to support individuals and families. The strategy will ensure investments and programs are aligned to encourage individuals to choose Newfoundland and Labrador to live, work and raise a family. The Population Growth Strategy is supported by four action plans covering the main elements of population growth – workforce, families, communities and immigration. For more information visit: www.gov.nl.ca/populationgrowth/.

QUICK FACTS:

  • The Department of Advanced Education and Skills is now acepting proposals to deliver projects under the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers program, which will assist older workers to integrate into the workforce.
  • The deadline for submission of proposals is August 7, 2015.
  • The program provides individuals with valuable skills and work experience to help them secure long-term, meaningful employment.
  • Since 2008, approximately 767 participants have worked on 62 projects with a federal investment in excess of $11.6 million and provincial investment in excess of $2.2 million.
  • Live Here, Work Here, Belong Here, A Population Growth Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador, 2015-2025 is the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s 10-year plan to support individuals and families.

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Media contacts:

John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Advanced Education and Skills
709-729-0753, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca 
Shirley Letto
Provincial Advisory Council on
Aging and Seniors
709-931-2026

2015 07 24                              1:40 p.m.