News Release


More Laid-Off Workers To Get Second Career Training

McGuinty Government Expands Opportunities To Keep Ontarians Working

October 24, 2008

Ontario is expanding access to Second Career so more laid-off workers can get skills training for high-demand jobs in their communities.

Second Career was launched in June 2008 to help laid-off Ontarians identify and train for new careers in growing sectors.  These new enhancements allow more laid-off workers to participate and take advantage of the training opportunities available, and build new skills for the careers of the future.

As of November 10, 2008, the guidelines for Second Career will be expanded to include:

  • Workers laid off as far back as January 1, 2005
  • Laid-off workers who have taken an interim job to make ends meet
  • Short term training options (less than six months) for laid-off workers who are not eligible for Employment Insurance
  • Potential additional financial assistance to cover expenses for the cost of academic upgrading, living away from home while participating in training, and dependent care.

Investing in skills training is a key part of the government's five-point economic plan – an economic stimulus that is helping individuals and families through the foreseen weakening economy.

Quotes

Minister Milloy with Jason Boylan and Anne Sado
Minister Milloy with Jason Boylan (Second Career student) and Anne Sado (President of George Brown College) after the announcement of changes to the Second Career program at George Brown College

"The enhancements to Second Career are about ensuring more Ontarians have the opportunities and skills for success, so that they are working in well-paying jobs in a period of economic uncertainty," said John Milloy, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. "Our government will continue to invest in skills and knowledge and to support Ontario families through a time of economic change."

Jason Boylan
Jason Boylan speaks to the positive experience he has had while being a student in the Second Career program.

Quick Facts

  • Through Second Career, announced in the 2008 Budget, Ontario is investing $355 million to help 20,000 laid-off workers make the transition to well-paying jobs.
  • Second Career is a key part of the $2 billion Skills to Jobs Action plan that includes a number of employment assistance programs offered through Employment Ontario.
  • Since 2003, the Ontario economy has created more than half a million net new jobs.

Employment Ontario provides training and employment services to almost one million people annually.

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