Ontario Government Supports Training, Education for Skilled Workers
NEWS
October 18, 2013
Visitors to Bon Echo Provincial Park will soon have a new option for overnight stays thanks to a partnership between the Ontario government and Loyalist College.
Construction students at the college are using building plans and materials provided by Ontario Parks to build a rustic cabin at the park.
This project will give students of Loyalist College a hands-on opportunity to do everything from framing to finishing work on the cabin.
Roofed accommodations, such as rustic cabins and yurts, are available in many provincial parks and provide opportunities for park users to stay overnight while being out of the elements.
Helping young people find jobs is part of the Ontario government’s economic plan to invest in people, invest in infrastructure and support a dynamic and innovative business climate.
QUOTES
“This new partnership is a positive example of what can happen when government works with local communities to create opportunities for our youth. This project is a win-win, with Bon Echo Provincial Park receiving a new cabin for park users to enjoy, and college students gaining valuable hands-on work experience that will better prepare them to enter the province’s workforce.”
— David Orazietti, Minister of Natural Resources
“This project is not only an excellent opportunity to showcase the innovative learning that takes place in our colleges, but also provides students with the practical experience that will ensure Ontario has the skilled workers it needs to succeed in tomorrow’s economy.”
— Brad Duguid, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities
“This is a wonderful example of our partnerships with government and the community. Our agreement with Ontario Parks requires that the work be completed to a high standard of workmanship, and we’re committed to that. It’s a terrific vote of confidence in the excellence of our students and faculty that they have chosen to partner with Loyalist on this project.”
— Maureen Piercy, President, Loyalist College
QUICK FACTS
- The rustic cabin will be 4.8 metres by 7.1 metres and will sleep six people.
- The Ontario government’s new Youth Jobs Strategy will help create 30,000 job opportunities for young people across the province. Ontario is investing $295 million over two years into the strategy.
- In 2012, Ontario’s provincial parks received more than nine million visits and brought in $69 million in revenue, which supported jobs and businesses all across the province.
- There are more than 330 provincial parks in Ontario, with more than 100 featuring visitor facilities. Many Ontario parks provide barrier-free facilities.
LEARN MORE
- See the 2013 Ontario Parks Guide or get a printed copy by calling 1-800-ONTARIO (668-2746).
- Get information about camping, park opening and closing dates, fees and special events in Ontario Parks.
- Find out more about construction programs at Loyalist College.
Media calls only: Andrew Donnachie, Minister’s Office,
416-314-2198
Media calls only: Media Desk, Communications Services Branch,
416-314-2106
ontario.ca/natural-resources-news