Human Resources committee  That is an excellent question. The apprenticeship systems in the EU countries have existed for a very long time. They are part of that continuation of public education. The apprenticeship systems in the Canadian context were really structured for adults, mainly for veterans retu

Human Resources committee  The best information I have on that really comes from the performance scorecard from Service Canada. On that scorecard they indicate that just about 84% of those who file are paid or receive the notification of non-entitlement to benefits within 28 days. That tells me that 16% do

Human Resources committee  Certainly there's a promotional aspect. Our evidence suggests there is an actual positive return on investment for employers to engage apprentices and build a skilled workforce within their company. Helping with even the promotion of the importance of having a highly trained repr

Human Resources committee  I think that would be a fine idea. I'm not aware of the extent to which that has been implemented within the Government of Saskatchewan for public tendering. Most of my experience has been in trying to encourage employers to recognize the benefits of having a highly trained ski

Human Resources committee  I can echo a lot of what Dan said. In Saskatchewan our whole system is built on partnerships. I wouldn't narrow it down to any particular firm or non-profit organization. I can comment on my board of directors' strategic planning process, which does include a very active indust

Human Resources committee  I would preface my answer by saying that the concerns I've heard have been from apprentices and journeypersons, not the general public. If I could contain my comments within that context, I think it would be best. Part of this could be even a perception, right? Remember that the

Human Resources committee  First of all, the idea that the skilled trades are somehow a consolation prize for kids who couldn't get into university is a fairly long-standing stigma. I and colleagues across the country are working very hard to try to change that perception and promote skilled trades as a fi

Human Resources committee  Thank you very much for that question. First of all, it's important to know that in the apprenticeship system the majority of the training actually occurs on the job under the guidance and mentorship of a skilled journeyperson. Probably around 85% of an apprentice's training occ

Human Resources committee  Thanks, Mr. Chair. I should clarify that I'm not here representing the Government of Saskatchewan, but rather the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission, which is the commission responsible for apprenticeship in Saskatchewan. I do very much appreciate th

Human Resources committee  Yes, I can hear you quite fine, Mr. Chair.