Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador fund summer tourism project

July 9, 2003

NEWTOWN, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR-Mr. John Efford, Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Trinity-Conception, on behalf of the Honourable Jane Stewart, Minister of Human Resources Development, along with the Honourable Anna Thistle, Minister of the Department of Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education for Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced funding of up to $74,260 for a summer tourism project sponsored by the Cape Freels Heritage Trust.

The funding will be used to provide 13 individuals with theatre production work experience at Barbour Living Heritage Village, Newtown, and the Greenspond Courthouse. Participants will be involved with all aspects of production, including script writing, set and costume design, costume making and acting. Participant allowances will total $72,260, and up to $2,000 will cover overhead costs.

"I am pleased to announce this funding for communities in my constituency," said Mr. Efford. "It is important that we build our human resources along with our community infrastructure to effectively stimulate economic development. This is the continuation of our efforts to develop the tourism potential of the Kittiwake coast area."

"This project will enhance economic opportunities, improve local infrastructure and provide individuals with work experience, which will help them to secure ongoing employment," said Minister Thistle.

"This venture will enable us to continue to offer residents and tourists alike a unique living heritage and theatre experience at the anchor attraction for the Kittiwake coast. We are proud to offer visitors to our area an entertaining glimpse into what life was like in rural Newfoundland in years gone by," said Wayne Perry, Secretary-Treasurer of the Cape Freels Heritage Trust.

The project is being supported under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement, through funding provided by Job Creation Partnerships. Job Creation Partnerships support the creation of incremental and meaningful work opportunities for clients in activities that help develop the community and the local economy. Human Resource Centres of Canada or partner agencies work with employers and community organizations to identify employment opportunities that can provide Employment Insurance (EI) recipients with valuable job experience.

The federal government, as represented by Human Resources Development Canada, and the provincial government, as represented by Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education, are working to help unemployed individuals find employment under the programs and services offered under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement.

Funding for Job Creation Partnerships is provided through the Employment Insurance Act. EI claimants receive their regular Income Benefits and/or income support under EI Part II - Employment Benefits, which may be increased by the employer to a local prevailing occupational wage rate. Also eligible are other insured participants, such as clients who have received employment benefits within the last three years, or maternity or parental benefits that started in the past five years.

Funding for the project was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.

The project has been reviewed to ensure compliance with the Department's administration of its grant and contribution programs.

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For information:

Bob Picco
Regional Communications Manager
Human Resources Development Canada
(709) 772-5346

Kathy Dicks-Peyton
Director of Communications
Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education
(709) 729-6573