These skills are important for helping people to perform their jobs, from acquiring knowledge and adapting to changes in workplace requirements, to retaining employment and moving from one job to another. They help people to work safely, and to fulfill their potential at work, at home and in the community.

In reviewing your agenda for the next three days, I can see that you are going to have many opportunities to learn from each other, to discuss the value of integrating essential skills into training programs and to review the preparation of workers for employment. I also noted the list of attendees for this event and I am impressed by the breadth of representation from industry, Aboriginal governments, educators, labour and non-government organizations.

Please accept my best wishes for a successful and enjoyable event. I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this workshop.

Hon. Charles Dent