YOUNG WORKERS COURSE NOW AVAILABLE IN FRENCH

A key initiative by the Saskatchewan Government to promote awareness of labour standards and workplace safety among young people is taking another step forward.

Saskatchewan's Young Workers Readiness Certificate Course (YWRCC) is now available in French for download online. The translated documents include the course's three modules and other instructional material for 14 and 15 year olds who must complete the test and receive a certificate before being allowed to work in the province.

"The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to providing better access to information and services in French through the gradual implementation of its French-language Services Policy," Provincial Secretary Donna Harpauer said. "By offering YWRCC in both official languages we can ensure that all of the province's youth are well prepared, well informed and most importantly safe, when entering the workforce, regardless of whether they speak English or French."

More than 3,500 young people have now taken the YWRCC which is also proving popular with both parents and employers.

"I am really pleased the course is teaching young people about their rights and responsibilities in the workplace and to ask questions about their jobs," Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. "I especially like the course's emphasis on workplace safety. This is critical as we continue to build a culture of safety in Saskatchewan."

Completion of the course is one of several requirements set out in the Minimum Age legislation that was introduced last year. In order to work, students under the age of 16 must take the course and have the consent of their parent or guardian.

Adopted in 2003, the Saskatchewan French-language Services Policy is a formal commitment by the government to enhance French-language services in priority areas in close consultation with the Francophone community. Providing services in French allows the government to meet the needs of the people of Saskatchewan while attracting French newcomers to our province.

The French version of the YWRRC is available at www.aeei.gov.sk.ca/certificat-jeune-travailleur, or through the Bonjour! website at www.bonjour.gov.sk.ca/.

The English version of the course is located at www.aeei.gov.sk.ca/ywrcc.

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For more information, contact:

Bill Stovin
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0926
Email: bill.stovin@gov.sk.ca

Jay Teneycke
Office of the Provincial Secretary
Regina
Phone: 306-798-6095