NWT will advance in labour market

On Aug. 27, it was announced that the future of the Northwest Territories' economy and mining sector would be stronger and more prosperous. Chuck Strahl, minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, declared two key investments that will assist in fortifying and diversifying the economy of the Northwest Territories. Furthermore, it will support Aboriginal workers to capitalize on local labour market opportunities.
During the press conference, Strahl announced $9 million in funding to the Mine Training Society on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. As a result, 500 Aboriginal people will receive training over a three-year period that will lead to 288 long-term jobs in the NWT's mining sector.
Strahl went on to proclaim a $2.1 million helping hand to the Pooled Capital Fund that will enable NWT's seven Community Futures Development Corporations to expand their ability to provide local businesses and entrepreneurs with lines of credit, business loans and loan guarantees. Strahl believes the investment will 'unleash the tremendous economic potential that exists within Northern communities.'
This announcement is the culmination of the Building On Success: New Directions for Mine Training in the Northwest Territories project. This project was operated by the Northwest Territories' Mine Training Society and funded by the federal government. Recently, 18 individuals completed the Mine Training Society's Underground Miner program.
"Today's new funding builds on our government's 2004 investment in the Mine Training Society ­ an Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership program that is already showing results," said Strahl.
Strahl wrapped up the press conference with a compliment to the endeavor, "While this announcement is about investing in business, it's really a vote of confidence in the people of this territory. And as businesses succeed and grow, it will mean jobs and opportunities for many others."
These two announcements reinforce Canada's commitment to promoting sustainable economic development in the North as part an integrated Northern strategy.