Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, our government believes NWT residents can reach their potential and be healthy, educated people, free from poverty. The Department of Education, Culture and Employment continues to work with industry stakeholders to improve the opportunities for training, education and employment across the Northwest Territories.
In 2011 the department held its first Labour Force Development Symposium, which was used as a platform to introduce the first NWT Labour Force Development Framework – People, Partnerships, Possibilities. It is a tool for working together towards improved labour market outcomes, and sustainable labour force growth and development. Over the years northern partners have come together to find common ground to ensure that our people and our economy are strong now and in the future. We are working with industry stakeholders toward a shared vision: “A healthy, educated, multi-skilled, safe and innovative workforce that guides the labour market and reflects our diverse cultures.”
Mr. Speaker, that is always top of mind as we negotiate with industry partners on socio-economic agreements, assess training and education requirements, discuss where we can deliver more resources, or determine how we can support our residents and clients with better access and streamlined processes. As well, we look forward to recommendations from the Anti-Poverty Strategy to help achieve these goals.
As we go into our second labour force development symposium tomorrow, we are optimistic that our discussions will continue to be productive. We have
80 delegates, including federal and territorial government departments and agencies, Aboriginal organizations, Aurora College, non-government organizations, industry, private institutions and societies. Our theme is The Labour Market: Sharing Best Practices and Development, and this is our focus as a department: to make sure we have the ability to maximize prospects for the North based on strong partnerships.
We recognize that we have work to do to ensure our residents continue to have opportunities, resources and supports to reach their potential. I look forward to continuing to share information and putting into practice the advice we have from our partners to create a strategic path for success for the benefit of all Northerners. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Lafferty. The honourable Minister of Justice, Mr. Abernethy.
