Helmets to Hardhats program helps veterans get civilian jobs

The Newfoundland Labradorgovernment has signed on to a program that helps veterans get jobs when they leave the military. TheDepartment of National Defence 404 driver's licence will be recognized as a licence to operate commercial vehicles.

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Dan Crummell, minister of Service NL, saidit will also help private companies find the skilled workers they need.

At an announcement onWednesday in St. John's, Crummellsaid the province wants to help veterans find rewarding work after their careers in the Armed Forces.

Alan Doody, a part time reservist and the Registrar of Motor Vehicles, called it"a huge step forward,"

In the past, Doody said, it wassometimes difficult to match skill sets from the military with civilian jobs. He said now, the analysis has been done beforehand.

"We know exactly what qualifications DND persons hold, and we can easily match that to our provincial licensing.So it's exactly what they said. Walk in one day with your application, leave 30 minutes later with your ID card in your hand...and before it could have taken months," said Doody.

"I know there's many soldierson the base just here atthe stationin St. john's who have those qualifications and will use them in civilian employment."