News Release

EDMUNDSTON (GNB) – The One-Job Pledge initiative has helped 94 graduates find employment at 73 businesses in the Edmundston region.

“Our innovative program is creating high-quality jobs and new opportunities for recent graduates while providing qualified staff for employers in the province,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Jody Carr.

The program, announced last year, enables eligible businesses to receive a one-year wage incentive when they hire a recent graduate. As part of its job creation strategy, the provincial government is providing support to businesses from a variety of sectors, including post-secondary, construction and trades, business, law, and information and technology.

On April 2, Carr and Social Development Minister Madeleine Dubé visited with students and employers in the region who have benefited from the program. The group included:

●    La coopérative des Montagnes (Radio CFAI);
●    Gilles Cormier Electric Inc.;
●    GM Chevrolet Buick GMC Edmundston;
●    Association des foyers de groupe;
●    Resnet Inc.; and
●    Cabinet de services financiers D'Astous Carrier Inc.

“This is an excellent time to remind employers of the One-Job Pledge Initiative,” said Carr. “As more students are set to graduate this spring, and as employers are looking to hire, we want to make sure both understand how the program can help link people, skills and jobs.”

The program is one of 44 action items outlined in the Labour Force and Skills Development Strategy which is aimed at bolstering the economy and strengthening the labour market. Under the program, businesses that qualify may receive a one-year wage incentive when they hire a permanent, full-time employee who graduated from a post-secondary institution within the past four years. These businesses must pay a minimum salary of $14 per hour. The program reimburses 70 per cent of the salary to a maximum of $10 per hour for 52 weeks.

“The One-Job Pledge is working,” said Dubé. “With 94 new jobs in the Edmundston region alone, this initiative is proving a valuable investment in young New Brunswickers as well as for local companies looking to grow.”

The One-Job Pledge is part of the Workforce Expansion Program administered by the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour.

The Workforce Expansion Program is among several initiatives made possible through the Canada-New Brunswick Labour Market Development Agreement and the Canada-New Brunswick Labour Market Agreement. More information is available online or by calling the nearest provincial employment office.