The successful recruitment and retention of aboriginal employees is an important topic for employers. It is equally important to the development of a regional labour strategy, as has been identified time and again from employers throughout the North Central Enterprise Region.
Blaine Lake & District Chamber of Commerce in partnership with North Central Enterprise Region hosted speaker John Lagimodiere April 21 in Blaine Lake.
Two Blaine Lake town councillors, two Marcelin/Blaine Lake CAP representatives, Blaine Lake Chamber representatives and two local business owners were among the ten in attendance.
John Lagimodiere of Aboriginal Business Consultants in Saskatoon provided an overview of Aboriginal demographics and barriers to aboriginal employment. Based on 14 years experience, Lagimodiere was able to deliver statistical data on 'what you need to know' and 'what's working best today' in aboriginal recruitment and retention.
Some topics of concern brought forward from the floor included adequate housing in the communities to accommodate the demand for employees. It was mentioned that there is not enough 'suitable affordable' housing for those individuals working for or above minimum wage. It was also mentioned that the middle aged aboriginal does not have the opportunity to go back to complete or advance his or her education. It was noted that between the ages of 30-50, these potential individuals for the work force were not feeling welcomed into the workplace as readily as the younger generation. Other issues of concern included developing the ability to get aboriginal work together and social policy.
According to ACS data, by 2045, 32 per cent of Saskatchewan's population will be of aboriginal ancestry which is why this issue needs to be brought forth now.
Besides facilitating and hosting aboriginal awareness seminars, Lagimodiere also publishes Eagle Feather News, a Saskatchewan aboriginal newsmagazine.
