A couple big players from Ottawa coming to Saint John for a prebudget round table discussion — a chance for groups in Port City to raise their voice on issues in the community and the non-profit sector.
Federal Minister of Labour Lisa Raitt and Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Kellie Leitch joined Saint John MP Rodney Weston this morning along with 16 local groups for the discussion. Leitch says the biggest topic discussed is what skills people need to be employed locally. She says a big focus was what skills women specifically need in the work force, and to get young women in to apprenticeships and skilled trades. Leitch says that not many women think of being a pipe fitter or an electrician as a first choice, but they want to make sure women know it’s an option. When she was in St. John’s, NFLD yesterday, she says they also have to encourage more people to get into skilled trades.
Minister Raitt adds that education was also a hot topic. She also says employers have a responsibility to welcome employees and help them develop. Rait adds there’s still barriers that need to be broken down to help support minorities in the workplace.
