Governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador fund Job Creation Partnership projects in two Newfoundland communities

July 29, 2003

HARBOUR GRACE, 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 totalling up to $118,123 for two projects in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"I am pleased to announce funding for these initiatives," said Mr. Efford. "Projects such as these provide participants with valuable skills that will enhance their ability to enter the work force full time. We are continuing to develop our province's tourism potential as well as provide employment opportunities for students."

"These projects will provide valuable work experience for 50 eligible participants," said Minister Thistle. "In addition, these initiatives will enhance opportunities within local communities by providing students with valuable summer employment and boosting local economies."

The Princess Sheila Inc., Rebel Island Theatre Company will receive $18,000 to provide 43 eligible participants with valuable work experience in theatrical productions for the summer of 2003. These productions will increase tourist activity in the area, which will have positive economic benefits. This initiative runs from June 23 to September 9, 2003. Participants' allowances will total up to $54,323.

The Random North Development Association will receive $15,000 to provide work experience for seven individuals as Youth Development Co-ordinators to develop and oversee local summer activity programs. Participants will also process applications for funding, contact sponsors and arrange interviews with students looking for summer employment. This initiative runs from June 20 to September 5, 2003. Participants' allowances will total up to $30,800.

The projects are 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 these projects was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget and is therefore built into the existing financial framework.

These projects have been reviewed to ensure compliance with the Department's administration of its grant and contribution programs.

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For more 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