The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission:

Speaker, I welcome to the gallery today the newest group of university graduates who have joined our public service through the graduate recruitment program.

These new graduates bring a wealth of skill and education to government. Among this team you will find many with master level degrees in science, medicine, gender studies, sociology, political science, business administration and environmental policy, to name just a few.

These talented recruits are very eager to make meaningful contributions to our province. They are gaining first-hand experience in the development of social, health, fiscal and environmental policies, as well as business analysis, mineral development, renewable energy and public safety among others.

Since its implementation in the spring of 2022, the graduate recruitment program has enabled recent graduates to gain valuable experience in one or more work assignments, expand skills and knowledge, network and connect with professionals and receive ongoing mentoring, coaching and learning opportunities. Through this program we are developing a career path to management and executive roles within the public service.

The graduate recruitment program is offered by the Public Service Commission which works to lead, guide and build a professional public service that is inclusive, diverse, respectful and skilled.

Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join with me in wishing the very best to our newest cohort of graduate recruits as they learn from and enhance our strong public service.

Thank you.