Press Release
A strong economy depends on a strong middle class where everybody has a real and fair chance to succeed.
Despite being the fastest-growing segment of the country’s population, indigenous peoples continue to be under-represented in Canada’s workforce.
That’s why Employment, Workforce Development, and Labour minister Patty Hajdu, together with Don Rusnak, parliamentary secretary to the minister of Indigenous Services, on Monday announced funding for a new project to help about 60 unemployed and under-employed indigenous peoples get the skills and work experience they need to find and keep good jobs.
Through the Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF), $2.5 million will be provided to Hardy Giles Consulting to support “Operation Innovation,” a project delivered in partnership with training provider Workplace Training and Safety First and industry partner LTL Contracting Ltd.
The project will train participants in simulated heavy equipment operation roles and help them gain work experience in the natural resource extraction industry.
It also includes strategies to help address the challenges indigenous women face in securing long-term, meaningful employment in the mining, construction, and forestry industries.
“Breaking down barriers to employment for indigenous people will ensure that everyone has a real and fair chance at success,” said Hajdu, who also is the MP for Thunder Bay-Superior North.
“Helping indigenous people get the skills and training they need to find good jobs will help grow the economy and strengthen the middle class, and help those working hard to join it,” she stressed.
“By providing more opportunities and training for indigenous people, the Government of Canada is demonstrating the importance of helping all Canadians get the skills and experience they need to help build strong communities like ours across the country and to contribute to growing the middle class,” echoed Rusnak, also the MP for Thunder Bay-Rainy River.
“‘Operation Innovation’ is breaking down barriers for indigenous people wanting careers in mining, construction, or resource development projects,” noted Hardy Giles Consulting owner Paul Giles.
“Our team focuses on the workforce integration process,” he explained. “We act as a communication and connection mechanism, bridging the gap between indigenous people and employers.
“We promote opportunity and career while connecting individuals to supports to ensure they achieve success,” Giles added.
Indigenous people in Canada represent the youngest and fastest-growing segment of the country’s population.
Over the next decade, 400,000 indigenous youths will be preparing to enter the workforce.
