July 14, 2015
Provincial, Federal Governments Join Forces to Create Opportunities for Older Workers
– – –New Skills Training Will Provide Jobs for Unemployed Workers in Westman Between Ages 55 and 64: Minister Chief
BRANDON—The governments of Canada and Manitoba are working together to help create jobs for close to 100 unemployed older workers in western Manitoba through the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) program, Jobs and the Economy Minister Kevin Chief announced here today along with Larry Maguire, member of parliament, Brandon-Souris.
“Helping older individuals enhance their skills and become self-employed is one way we make sure Manitobans have access to the best opportunities for success,” said Minister Chief. “Manitobans want to give back and this program helps them do that where it matters most, in their hometowns.”
This multi-year project, funded by the provincial and federal governments, will provide approximately 100 unemployed workers between the ages of 55 and 64 in Brandon with skill-upgrading activities including training and work placements. The experience they will acquire will help them qualify for jobs and reintegrate into the labour market, Minister Chief noted.
“Our government’s top priorities are creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity for Canadian families,” said Maguire, at an event today on behalf of the federal Employment and Social Development Minister Pierre Poilievre. “We are very pleased to work with the government of Manitoba to support these projects, as they will help unemployed older workers develop new skills and the experience needed for job opportunities in their communities.”
Federal funding for the TIOW program was recently extended for an additional three years. The program’s eligibility criteria were expanded to include communities experiencing unfulfilled employer demand and/or skills mismatches. Areas experiencing high unemployment or significant downsizing are also eligible for the program.
“I’ve always done jobs that are repetitious,” said Jean Stremel, program participant, Age is an Asset. “I’d like to stretch my skills and this program has helped me learn different skills and helped me go beyond what I used to think of myself.”
During the program extension, the province will have the flexibility to determine how best to address the needs of older workers in their communities, while helping businesses benefit from their skills and talents, Minister Chief added.
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