Budget 2013 will help more Manitobans train for and access better jobs with new apprenticeship opportunities and supports for those who are ready to work. This announcement was made by Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade Minister Peter Bjornson.
“Despite an uncertain global economy, Manitoba has kept moving forward with smart, targeted investments in training opportunities and, by building our infrastructure, creating thousands of jobs,” said Bjornson. “Manitoba businesses have kept growing and today there’s a skills shortage. That’s why we’re helping more Manitobans get the training and supports they need to find work or, if they’re working already, to train for a better job.”
The provincial government will target $800,000 to create more than 100 new apprenticeship training seats for skilled trades that are needed by Manitoba companies including training for railway car technicians, diesel engine mechanics and power line technicians.
The minister noted that these new apprenticeship opportunities are another step toward meeting the province’s goal of adding 75,000 workers to Manitoba’s labour force by 2020.
“Red River College is the largest trainer of apprentices in Manitoba. We train over 4,000 full-time students every year of which 96 per cent secure employment in Manitoba,” said RRC president Stephanie Forsyth. “Today’s announcement is an important step in addressing Manitoba’s skilled labour needs and we at the college applaud the addition of these additional training seats.”
The minister also announced a new strategy to help Manitobans on income assistance train for and get secure, long-term jobs. Manitoba’s new Strategy for Sustainable Employment and a Stronger Labour Market includes:
- helping those on income assistance find job opportunities through training and support programs including co-op experience;
- matching individual interests, experience and skills with jobs, while working with employers on transition to ensure jobs are secure and for the long term; and
- targeting new benefits to help Manitobans find work including the new RentAid Transition Benefit and extended health plan benefits for those moving off income assistance to training and employment.
“We’re taking new steps that will get more Manitobans into the workforce and providing new opportunities for those who are already working to train for better jobs,” said Bjornson. “It’s about meeting the needs of local companies and creating opportunities for families.”
Helping people get and keep good jobs so they can provide for themselves is a key element of ALL Aboard, Manitoba’s poverty reduction and social inclusion strategy, the minister said. More information on the new sustainable employment strategy can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/allaboard.
