Projects in Manitoba to help older workers re-enter workforce

Skills-enhancement training for 350 workers

Ten federally and provincially funded projects will support unemployed older workers in small communities in Manitoba by helping them develop their skills and get back into the labour market.

Joint funding of $2.9 million will go toward the projects under the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers.

"Manitoba recognizes older workers as a key component to addressing labour and skill shortages in our growing economy," said Peter Bjornson, minister of entrepreneurship, training and trade. "These investments in education and training for older workers will help them maximize their ability to participate in the workforce."

About 350 unemployed older workers from a number of communities in Manitoba will benefit from these projects. Participants will take part in skills-enhancement training that includes career development activities, computer skills training and assistance with job search and subsidized work placements.

"Our government's top priority remains Canada's economic recovery and we continue to take action to support Canadian jobs and families," said Vic Toews, minister of public safety and regional minister for Manitoba. "Together, with the province of Manitoba, we are helping unemployed older workers in small communities across Manitoba get the support, training and skills development opportunities they need to find jobs and re-enter the workforce."

The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers is part of the federal government's broader strategy to create an educated, skilled and flexible workforce, highlighted in Canada's Economic Action Plan. To date, this program has helped more than 16,000 unemployed older workers retrain for new careers, said the government.

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