Government of Canada delivers youth employment programs in Manitoba

February 06, 2009

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, February 6, 2009 — At-risk youth in Manitoba will get valuable job-preparation training thanks to the Government of Canada’s investment in several employment projects. The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Member of Parliament for Charleswood - St. James- Assiniboia and Minister of State (Democratic Reform) made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“Improving opportunities for youth is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to create a productive workforce and a stronger economy,” said Mr. Fletcher. “In supporting these projects, we are helping young Canadians develop the skills, knowledge and experience they need to move forward in their lives.”

Three Manitoba communities will benefit from seven youth-employment projects; three in Winnipeg, three in Dauphin and one in Brandon. Together, these projects will help 98 unemployed Manitoba youth develop life and work skills through workshops, one-on-one counselling and work experience. These projects will receive over $750,000 in total funding through the federal Youth Employment Strategy Skills Link program.

The federal government is working in partnership with the province and other stakeholders to make sure Canadians get the training, skills and opportunities they need to participate in the work force and contribute to the quality of life in their communities.
Creating the best-educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world has always been a priority for Canada’s Government. With the Canada Skills and Transition Strategy outlined in Canada’s Economic Action Plan, our government is committed to making this goal a reality by enhancing access to training for Canadian workers.

The Skills Link program is delivered by Service Canada, which provides one-stop personalized services for Government of Canada programs, services and benefits. For more information about this program, call 1-800-O-Canada, go online at servicecanada.gc.ca or visit your local Service Canada Centre.