FedNor funding for the Northern Policy Institute will help connect migrant and immigrant workers with workplaces seeking to recruit

NICKEL BELT – GREATER SUDBURY- A skilled labour force is key to the growth of Canadian businesses and a strong economy. Well trained staff enable companies to increase productivity and efficiency, adapt quickly to challenges as they arise, respond to growth opportunities and improve profitability. The Government of Canada recognizes the challenges facing communities and businesses, particularly outside of larger urban centres, in accessing a skilled workforce to support development and growth efforts.

Paul Lefebvre, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, and Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, today announced a Government of Canada investment of $95,000 to help the Northern Policy Institute to attract newcomers to the region and connect them with workplaces in need of their skills. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor. This strategic project is engaging multiple stakeholders, communities and businesses across Northeastern Ontario to implement a plan to address challenges such as labour shortages, outmigration and an aging population that affect economic development in the region.

Specifically, the funding is enabling the Northern Policy Institute to engage the services of two community matchmakers, based in Sudbury, to serve Northeastern Ontario, one focused on the francophone and allophone community (including international students), and the other on the anglophone community. The project, which is underway and progressing well, assists businesses in navigating and participating in immigrant and migrant settlement and attraction services, programs and administration. In addition, the project is helping to raise awareness of and facilitating access to job matching, payroll subsidy programs, and other employment supports.

Quotes

“A skilled workforce is key to helping businesses boost productivity, adopt new technologies, and improve global competitiveness. That is why our government is committed to helping businesses overcome this identified barrier to growth that will in turn strengthen Northern Ontario’s economy.”  - The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor

“This strategic project will lead to enhanced regional competitiveness through the implementation of a plan to attract and connect newcomers to Northeastern Ontario with employment opportunities that match their skillset. This will result in new strategic alliances with communities, regional organizations and businesses. It will also increase regional diversity, sustainable economic activity and competitiveness. That is definitely good news for Greater Sudbury.”- Paul Lefebvre, Member of Parliament for Sudbury

 “Today’s announcement represents a big step forward in addressing the critical shortage of skilled workers that businesses across the region have identified. I am proud of our government’s efforts to enhance connections with Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury employers and improve information services to support the recruitment and retention of skilled workers that businesses want and need.” - Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt

“This FedNor investment will aid us in our mission to support the growth of communities and businesses in Northern Ontario. Matchmaking will help connect those with specialized skills with employers who are seeking to fill key vacancies within their organizations. It’s a win-win for everyone.”- Charles Cirtwill, President and CEO, Northern Policy Institute

Quick Facts

• The Northern Policy Institute exists to see better, more effective, evidence based policy developed and implemented to improve the lives and the future of all Northern Ontarians. This is achieved through the development of research, promotion of evidence, and the identification of opportunities to support the growth of sustainable Northern Ontario communities.
• The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, diversification and business growth.

Associated Links

• Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
• Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

• To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.gc.ca
• Follow us on Twitter @FedNor
• Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA

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Contacts

Kaylie Dudgeon,
Special Assistant
Marc G. Serré MP Nickel Belt
[email protected]
705-897-2222