Campbellton, New Brunswick -Enterprise Restigouche is spearheading an initiative to encourage the return of youth to the region. In June of this year, 20 to 30 qualified young people living outside the region are being invited to return to Restigouche. Information sessions and networking opportunities will be organized as part of a weekend of activities called Restigouche: My Roots, My Future during which postsecondary graduates can again familiarize themselves with the career opportunities and quality of life that Restigouche has to offer. "The Government of Canada is committed to building a strong and thriving economy," declared Jean-Claude D'Amours, MP for Madawaska-Restigouche, on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). "We are determined to support regional development initiatives like that proposed by Enterprise Restigouche in their efforts to reverse the exodus of young people towards big urban centres. This initiative will allow young people to explore the various career opportunities in the region and maybe even stay to start their own businesses." "Repatriation is an essential part of our government's goal of economic prosperity for New Brunswick. Pairing local businesses and skilled post-secondary graduates strengthens the economic growth for all regions," said Training and Employment Development Minister Margaret-Ann Blaney. This two-part initiative will be pairing skilled former residents with local employers. "Providing skilled and qualified workers the opportunity to return home and raise their family close to their friends and relatives is good for the workers, and good for the region. It's a win-win situation," stated Betty-Ann Mercier, Executive Director of Enterprise Restigouche. This initiative is a cooperative effort that combines federal, provincial and local partnerships. ACOA is funding $22,883, while Training and Employment Development is contributing $32,600 under the Canada-New Brunswick Labour Market Development Agreement. The Community Business Development Corporation ¿ Restigouche is contributing $3,000, with additional support coming from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) and local financial partners. Additional information on this initiative is available at www.restigouche.ca. Former Restigouche residents are encouraged to get in touch with Enterprise Restigouche to see what is being planned for them. For more information on ACOA's programs, please visit our Web site at www.acoa- apeca.gc.ca. -30- Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (613) 941-7241 Carolyn Grey Communications Officer ACOA NB (506) 444-6144 Shawn Hearn Director, Marketing and Public Information Training and Employment Development (506) 453-2568 Betty-Ann Mercier Executive Director Enterprise Restigouche (506) 789-4939
