Provinces Establish Atlantic Workforce Partnership

The four Atlantic provinces have come together to establish an Atlantic Workforce Partnership to help prepare the region and its workers for significant economic opportunities on the horizon in the mining, energy and shipbuilding sectors, Premier Darrell Dexter announced today, June 6.

"This is an incredible time for Nova Scotia, and the entire Atlantic region," said Premier Dexter. "The opportunities out there bring with them the promise of good jobs and economic prosperity for all four provinces. My provincial colleagues agree that we need to work together to ensure we are ready to make the most of what's coming."

The new partnership will help the provinces adapt to changing skills requirements in the workforce and ensure they can meet the anticipated demand for future mining, energy and shipbuilding capital projects.

The premiers will direct a steering committee to develop strategies that enhance the region's labour force through improved use and skills development.

Premier Dexter was in Brudenell, P.E.I., for the Council of Atlantic Premiers meeting with Premier David Alward of New Brunswick, Premier Kathy Dunderdale of Newfoundland and Labrador, and their host, Premier Robert Ghiz of Prince Edward Island.

The meeting was an opportunity for the provincial leaders to discuss joint priorities, like the federal shipbuilding contract and the Lower Churchill project, as well as emerging regional issues and opportunities for regional co-operation.

The premiers expressed concerns about the federal government's recently announced changes to employment insurance, the renewal of federal transfers, including equalization, and the recent reductions in federal services across the Atlantic region.

They agreed consultation with the federal government about issues affecting the provinces is lacking.

"It's important for the federal government to work with the provinces, as well as the businesses, industries and Canadians that will be affected," said Premier Dexter. "We hope to continue this discussion and push for better consultation in the future when we meet with all the premiers next month."

Premier Dexter will chair the Council of the Federation meetings July 25-26 in Halifax.