A MORE REPRESENTATIVE WORKFORCE IN THE PRAIRIE SPIRIT SCHOOL DIVISION

An agreement signed in Warman today, will see more job opportunities for First Nations and Métis people. The Government of Saskatchewan and the Prairie Spirit School Division signed an Aboriginal Employment Development (AED) partnership agreement to combine their efforts in working to achieve a more representative workforce.

"The Prairie Spirit School Division is our newest partner in our efforts to build a workforce that is representative of the whole province," First Nations and Métis Relations spokesperson Victoria Gubbels said on behalf of First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude. "This work of preparing the workplace for the potential to become representative will ensure more First Nations and Métis people can share in Saskatchewan's economic prosperity."

"Prairie Spirit works with a Strategic Direction in a number of areas and many of our targets involve improvements in learning outcomes for First Nations and Métis students," Superintendent of Schools and Learning Sherri Stephanson said. "We really believe that a representational workforce, and First Nations and Métis role models within our schools and other workplaces in our Division will benefit all our students and will, in particular, encourage our First Nations and Métis students."

Through the Aboriginal Employment Development Program, Saskatchewan is working with its 86 partners to meet provincial labour market needs through work place preparation. By building links to the First Nations and Métis workforce the program works to ensure representation at all occupational levels. This participation is integral to Saskatchewan's future success.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Sharon Erickson
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7177
Email: serickson@fnmr.gov.sk.ca