Minister Fantino Applauds New Brunswick for Supporting Helmets to Hardhats

FREDERICTON, Oct. 9, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today thanked the New Brunswick Government for committing $50,000 in support to the Helmets to Hardhats program. The announcement was made in the lead up to a fundraising dinner where Minister Fantino, the Honourable David Alward, Premier of New Brunswick, and Brian MacDonald, Legislative Secretary to the Premier, responsible for Intergovernmental Affairs and Military Affairs, will  speak to participants about the importance of hiring Veterans.

"We sincerely applaud the Government of New Brunswick for supporting Canada's Veterans transition to civilian careers," said Minister Fantino. "The men and women who have served Canada in uniform are known worldwide for their leadership skills, expertise and teamwork. They have exactly what it takes to begin rewarding civilian careers after serving their country with dignity and pride."

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) helped to found and launch Helmets to Hardhats in Canada as an innovative partnership between government, the provinces, the building trades unions and the private sector. The initiative helps Veterans find meaningful jobs in Canada's building, construction and trades industries.

"Connecting these skilled, disciplined and results-oriented Canadians with opportunities is not only the right thing to do for Veterans and military personnel—it's also a smart way to solve our skills shortage and keep our economy growing," said Minister Fantino.

Through the Hire a Veteran initiative and the Veterans Transition Advisory Council, the Government of Canada is working hand in hand with corporate Canada and local businesses to match the world-class skills and expertise of Canadian Armed Forces' members and Veterans with access to jobs and training opportunities.

"Veterans are deeply motivated to continue contributing to Canada when their military careers are over," said the Honourable Rob Moore, Regional Minister for New Brunswick and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency). "Helmets to Hardhats helps them transfer the experience, education and training they gained in the military into a job that allows them to continue to lead and help build a strong Canada."

The Helmets to Hardhats fundraising dinner will be held tonight at the Fredericton Convention Centre.

Veterans Affairs Canada's support and services offer the right care at the right time to achieve the best results for Veterans and their families. Find out more at veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada