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B.C. invests in Aboriginal skills training

LNG Industry,


The government of British Columbia (B.C.) will invest up to CAN$30 million over the next three years in Aboriginal skills training projects and partnerships.

Skills for jobs

The investment is part of the B.C. Skills for Jobs Blueprint. From 2015, up to CAN$10 million per year in funding will support Aboriginal skills training. The training will focus on First Nations communities set to benefit from LNG development.

The programmes will contribute to the ultimate goal of adding 15 000 more Aboriginal workers to the B.C. workforce within 10 years.

First Nations to benefit

Designed in collaboration with First Nations communities, the investment will help ensure Aboriginal people and First Nations communities have more opportunities to benefit from the growth of the emerging LNG sector. These opportunities include training pathways to jobs, as well as collaboration on the development of long-term environmental protection and stewardship measures.

The programme will focus on increasing opportunities for skills training and sustainable employment among the Aboriginal population and First Nations connected with the LNG sector. For example, funded programmes may include pipeline construction training, mobile training facilities and certification for heavy-duty equipment operators.

Comments

John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

“The Aboriginal Skills Training Development Programme is a good example of how our government is walking a better path and working in partnership with First Nations to ensure a positive legacy from LNG development.”

Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training

"Access to well-paying jobs and economic participation are keys to shared prosperity with First Nations. By increasing funding for Aboriginal skills training, we are promoting greater First Nations participation in a dynamic and rapidly changing labour market.

“With one million job openings anticipated by 2022, two-thirds from retirement and one-third from economic growth, Aboriginal people and First Nations communities will be critical to meeting our future workforce demands and keeping our economy diverse, strong and growing.”

Chief Barry Nikal, Moricetown Band

“This new fund is a step in the right direction. It will benefit First Nations throughout the North, including the Moricetown Band. We welcome the skills training benefits this fund will provide.”


Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/27042015/investment-for-first-nations-skills-training-648/

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