TORONTO, Oct. 8, 2013 /CNW/ —The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development and Minister for Multiculturalism, spoke to business leaders at the Economic Club of Canada in Toronto about the Government's strategy to tackle skills shortages in Canada.
"Our government's number one priority remains jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. The federal government plays a key role in creating the conditions for strong private sector job creation and positioning the country for success in the global economy," said Minister Kenney. "The Canada Job Grant is the cornerstone of our plan to make federal funding for job creation and training more demand-driven and ensure that employers are part of the solution."
Minister Kenney stressed the need for greater coordination and action by the private sector, provinces and territories and post-secondary institutions to connect Canadians to jobs.
Speaking to an audience of approximately 100 business leaders, Minister Kenney acknowledged that the current imbalances in the labour market hamper productivity and affect growth.
Nearly 1.4 million Canadians are unemployed while 216 100 jobs remain vacant. Recent initiatives by government focus on more directly involving employers in decisions regarding job creation and skills training.
"We have too many jobs without people and too many people without jobs. This is the challenge we must address," added Minister Kenney. "Never before have provinces and employers had such a willing and engaged partner on this file. We will be pushing all of our partners to act in their areas of jurisdiction to improve Canada's labour market and ensure continued economic growth."
A strong economy that delivers prosperity relies on a labour market that is skilled, adaptable and innovative. Economic Action Plan 2013 also offers a path which will strengthen Canada's fiscal advantage and spur long-term jobs and growth. For more information, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
SOURCE: Employment and Social Development Canada
This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
For further information (media only):
Nick Koolsbergen
Office of the Minister
613-762-8126
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
IF THERE IS A DISCREPANCY BETWEEN ANY PRINTED VERSION AND THE ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS NEWS RELEASE, THE ELECTRONIC VERSION WILL PREVAIL.
Share this article