Released on April 16, 2013
Following Monday's release of the final report of the Joint Task Force on Improving Education and Employment Outcomes for First Nations and Métis People, the Government of Saskatchewan is announcing its intention to ensure driver education is available to all eligible students who attend on-reserve high schools. Increased access to driver education removes barriers to mobility and employment opportunities, a challenge identified in the report.
“Driver education is something that should be provided to all students in our province, regardless of where they live or attend school,” Education Minister Russ Marchuk said. “Our government is committed to ensuring that all Saskatchewan residents share in the success of our growing province, and that requires removing barriers to First Nations education and employment opportunities.”
Driver training is already offered by some First Nations high schools. This will enable approximately 2,600 more First Nations students to take driver education. Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) will discuss funding of the additional programs with both the federal government and First Nations Bands.
“Increased access to driver training makes the roads safer for all Saskatchewan residents,” Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance Donna Harpauer said. “This provides SGI with another opportunity to promote traffic safety with First Nations youth and helps support the growth of Saskatchewan’s workforce by facilitating access to driver’s licences.”
Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) Vice Chief Simon Bird is pleased with the provincial announcement.
“This is an important issue we have been working with the provincial government on for the last two years, and we see this as a positive first step in moving forward on the recommendations of the Joint Task Force,” Vice Chief Bird said. “I agree that this funding removes a barrier to mobility and employment opportunities for First Nations youth in this territory called Saskatchewan.”
SGI will be consulting with First Nations high schools in the coming months, and will assist them in implementation of the program.
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506
Kelley Brinkworth
Saskatchewan Government Insurance
Regina
Phone: 306-751-1837
Email: kbrinkworth@sgi.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-6207