Training workers involved in the fishery will assist them in increasing their skills and improving safety in the fishing industry on Prince Edward Island, says Minister Richard Brown, Workforce and Advanced Learning.
“Our Government’s investment in training contributes to skills enhancement to ensure the Island workforce is better suited for employer and industry needs,” said Minister Brown. “Through SkillsPEI, we’re focused on giving Island workers the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to obtain and maintain sustainable and meaningful work.”
The Prince County Fishermen’s Association, in conjunction with the PEI Fishermen’s Association, is coordinating the delivery of 13 industry specific marine related courses to assist individuals currently employed in the fishery or aspiring to enter the fishery, to meet industry safety requirements.
The training, funded by SkillsPEI, takes place at the Holland College Marine Training Centre in Summerside. Approximately 165 individuals will have the opportunity to participate in various training courses, including: Marine Basic First Aid; Marine Advanced First Aid; Marine Emergency Duties; Radio Operator Certification; and Small Vessel Operator Proficiency. Courses will run to mid-April.
“SkillsPEI has given me the opportunity to take the courses necessary to increase my knowledge and safety on the water. Having these courses instills confidence in how to go about the many uncertain situations we face during every fishing season,” said Darcy Ashley, SVOP training participant.
Minister Alan McIsaac, Agriculture and Fisheries agrees that this type of training is beneficial for those involved in the industry. “It is extremely important to the commercial fishing industry for fishers to have access to appropriate training to assist them in their business,” said McIsaac. “I encourage all fishers, including the participants in our Future Fisher Program to take advantage of these available training opportunities.”
This program is funded through the Canada-PEI Labour Market Development Agreement. For more information on the training program, please contact Melissa Pitre, Training Coordinator, Prince County Fishermen’s Association at (902) 206-0567 or SkillsPEI at 1-877-491-4766.