July 30, 2014 – Burnaby B.C. – Employment and Social Development Canada

Today, the Honourable Alice Wong (new window), Minister of State (Seniors) and Member of Parliament for Richmond, on behalf of the Honourable Candice Bergen (new window), Minister of State (Social Development), announced over $1.3 million in funding to the Neil Squire Society to help Canadians with disabilities enter the workforce.

Minister Wong visited the Neil Squire Society to see first-hand how skills development is preparing Canadians with disabilities for employment and making a positive change in their lives.

Funded through the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities, this investment will allow the Neil Squire Society to provide life and job skills to up to 220 Canadians with disabilities. Minister Wong met project participants and talked with them about the skills they are learning such as interview techniques and computer skills to help them successfully transition to the workplace.

Minister Wong also spoke with members of the Neil Squire Society about their efforts to build partnerships with employers to raise awareness of the valuable contribution that Canadians with disabilities can make to the labour market.

This is part of the Government of Canada’s overall strategy to equip all Canadians with the skills and training they need to connect with available jobs.

“All Canadians, regardless of level of ability, have a tremendous amount to offer. To support Canada’s long-term prosperity, we must ensure that everyone who wants to work has the opportunity to do so. Today’s announcement will help Canadians with disabilities get the skills needed to obtain jobs and enable employers to benefit from their skills and talents.” – The Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development)

“Our government’s top priorities are creating jobs and economic growth. Canadians with disabilities have a lot to offer. However, they remain under-represented in our workforce and face particular challenges entering the job market, and that’s why partnerships with organizations like the Neil Squire Society are so important.” – The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) and Member of Parliament for Richmond

“We have been thrilled to have this opportunity to deliver projects that provide persons with disabilities the essential employability skills for the labour market. This creates significant opportunities for these individuals to obtain long-term attachment to the workforce. We are extremely grateful for the support we have received from the Opportunities Fund to make this possible.” – Gary Birch (new window), O.C., Ph.D., P.Eng., Executive Director, Neil Squire Society