A MORE REPRESENTATIVE WORKFORCE IN THE LIVING SKY SCHOOL DIVISION

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

"I commend this progressive school division for joining with the Government of Saskatchewan to prepare workplaces in the education sector," First Nations and Métis Relations spokesperson John Reid said on behalf of First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude. "This will help us achieve our overall goal of ensuring more First Nations and Métis people share in the economic prosperity of the province."

"The Aboriginal Employment Development Program (AEDP) is an initiative that will involve new partnerships with Living Sky School Division, as well as the surrounding communities," Living Sky School Division No. 202 board chair Ken Arsenault said. "These partnerships will ensure that Aboriginal candidates will have the skills required for specific jobs, and will break down perceived barriers to Aboriginal employment in the workplace. For these partnerships to be authentic they must make sure the new employees, existing employees and places of employment complete the necessary requirements for success."

Through the Aboriginal Employment Development Program, Saskatchewan is working with its 85 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.

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For more information, contact:

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