Quebec Youth Receive Important Human Rights Training
MONTRÉAL, March 18, 2004 -- The Honourable Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of Health, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister Responsible for the Official Languages, and Member of Parliament (Papineau--Saint-Denis), on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced the Government of Canada's participation in a program to educate young people about human rights issues. The program was implemented by the Centre québécois de formation pour les jeunes en matière de droits humains (CQF)."This program provides important information about the international human rights system to young people who have already demonstrated their commitment to these issues through their work with non-governmental organizations," said Minister Pettigrew. "When they return to their organizations, they will be better equipped to participate in activities that support their communities, and to contribute to discussions on policy development and implementation."
"We place our hopes for the future on our young people. They have the determination, energy, and creativity to build a just and peaceful world," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "I am pleased that the CQF is giving our youth the chance to learn more about human rights, and the tools they need to exercise their rights and help others do the same."
In partnership with the Geneva-based Youth Resource Center on Human Rights, the CQF held a four-day training course for 25 youth interested in learning about the international human rights system. The training focussed on the United Nations International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
Funding of $2,905 is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Human Rights Program. This program provides grants and contributions to projects that increase awareness in Canadians of human rights, that encourage respect, and that enable us to further our knowledge on this subject.
Funding for this program was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Emilia De Iacovo
Policy Advisor
Office of the Hon. Pierre Pettigrew
(514) 593-6020
Mylène Dupéré
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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