Introduction to PIAAC, with a focus on its relevance for English-speaking practitioners in Quebec

This is the second session in a two-part webinar series hosted by TALQ, featuring consultant and policy expert Brigid Hayes, on the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC). The series is presented as part of the Community Empowerment Literacy Initiative (CELI).

About CELI
Launched in 2021, CELI works to strengthen Quebec’s English-speaking community (ESCQ). Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and led by TALQ (formerly QCGN) in partnership with Literacy Quebec, CELI supports community-based English-language literacy and essential skills (ELES) providers. Through funding and professional development opportunities—including webinars, workshops, and online resources—CELI helps organizations:

• Deliver ELES programs through the SFS lens

• Build sustainable community partnerships

• Assess and demonstrate the impact of their programs and services

Webinar Details

• Topic: Exploring PIAAC through the lens of skills and workforce implications
  This webinar will look at the Canadian PIAAC results from the perspective of the impact of literacy on workplace skills. It will discuss how Canada's skills affect work and the economy. The discussion will include the role of literacy and employment services in skill development 

• Date & Time: October 23, 11am-12pm ET

• Location: Online via Zoom (free; registration required)

About the Presenter

Brigid Hayes is a consultant specializing in strategic planning and policy development with expertise in workplace literacy, essential skills, partnership development, research, facilitation, and evaluation.

From 2003 to 2006, Brigid was the Director of Labour at the Canadian Labour and Business Centre (CLBC). From 1989 until 2003, Brigid was Program Consultant, National Literacy Secretariat, Human Resources Development Canada responsible for the Business-Labour Partnerships. From 1984, Brigid was a policy officer with the Department of the Secretary of State on issues related to youth, aboriginal people, and voluntary action issues, and from 1987 as Director, Voluntary Action Directorate. Between 1980 and 1984, she consulted in the area of program and policy development with clients from the criminal justice field, women’s organizations, aboriginal women’s organizations, and the voluntary sector. Prior to this, she worked for the Native Women’s Association of Canada and the National Association of Friendship Centres. Brigid serves as chair of the Peter Gzowski Foundation for Literacy since 2019, joining the Board of Directors in 2017. 

Brigid holds an Honours BA in Sociology (University of Western Ontario) and an MA in Canadian Studies (Carleton University).