In addition, First Nations and Inuit internship programs will use new resources to develop skills and work experience for Aboriginal youth on reserves and in northern communities. These are not make-work projects. They are not handouts, nor are they meaningless jobs. Our role is to act as a bridge between employers and potential employees, and to encourage companies to take the risk of hiring a student or recent graduate who may not have direct experience, but who comes equipped with knowledge, with enthusiasm, and with a willingness to work. This strategy will not only benefit youth.
Companies benefit too.
I know that Canada's environmental industries, for instance, don't have enough employees with the knowledge and skills they need to grow and become more competitive in international markets. There are more than 4,500 small and medium-sized environmental companies working in Canada. But companies can't hire you if they don't know who you are. And that is where we come in. We are working with the private sector and non-governmental organizations creating opportunities through the Youth Employment Strategy.