Ottawa, September 23, 2020 – Denise Amyot, President and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada issued the following statement on the Speech from the Throne to open the second session of the 43rd Parliament of Canada.
“Canada is currently facing unprecedented challenges as all of us find ourselves affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many Canadians have lost their jobs, while those who remain employed have had to adjust to a completely different way of working. In times like these, the critical role of Canada’s post-secondary system – helping Canadians adapt and develop the skills they need – becomes more important than ever. We are incredibly pleased to see this acknowledged in today’s Throne Speech, which commits the largest investment in Canadian history in training for workers, including building new skills in growing sectors.”
“Our members have stepped up during this crisis, training healthcare and frontline workers, and helping manufacturers pivot to produce additional personal protective equipment. They remain fully committed to supporting Canadians and their communities through this pandemic and the coming recovery. With over 95% of Canadians living within 50km of one our members, colleges and institutes support Canadians wherever they live with accessible and responsive programs that meet their needs. They also work hand in hand with our nation’s employers who have often had to completely overhaul their businesses in order to survive, with SMEs disproportionately affected by the pandemic. By working together to meet their labour needs and support innovation, we can truly help businesses adapt for the future and thrive. “
“We look forward to continuing to work with the government on behalf of colleges and institutes to support Canada’s post-COVID-19 recovery and help restart the Canadian economy while moving it towards a better, greener, and healthier future.”
About Colleges and Institutes Canada:
Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) is the voice of Canada’s publicly-supported colleges, institutes, cegeps and polytechnics, and an international leader in education for employment with ongoing programs in over 25 countries. CICan’s members add over $190B to Canada’s economy each year and contribute to inclusive economic growth by working with industry and community partners to offer more than 10,000 programs to learners in urban, rural, remote, and northern communities.
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For more information:
Julien Abord-Babin
Senior Strategic Communications Officer
Colleges and Institutes Canada
Email: jabord-babin@collegesinstitutes.ca
Phone: 613-746-2222 ext. 3131
Twitter: @CollegeCan