ST. STEPHEN, NEW BRUNSWICK, December 13, 2010 - An individual with a disability will get work experience through the Government of Canada's support for an employment project. The Honourable Greg Thompson, Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
"In today's environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate and succeed in the job market," said Mr. Thompson. "By supporting this project, our government is helping Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence."
With assistance from the federal Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities, Ganong Bros. Limited will hire an individual with a disability to help in the production and distribution of Ganong chocolate products. The work placement will allow the individual to gain hands-on experience leading to ongoing employment.
The Opportunities Fund helps support an array of activities, such as increasing employability skills, providing work experience and preparing individuals for self employment.
Ganong Bros. Limited will receive over $6,500 under the Wage Subsidy component of the Opportunities Fund.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
The Government of Canada is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent Canadians with disabilities from reaching their full potential with a wide range of effective policies, programs and services.
The Wage Subsidy component of the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities is designed to help Canadians with disabilities who have little or no work experience, and who are not eligible for Employment Insurance benefits. The Fund is available to employers to encourage them to hire people with disabilities.
The Opportunities Fund is part of the Government of Canada's strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world. The Government underscored its commitment to this strategy in Canada's Economic Action Plan. A key component of the Plan is to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers through skills development. To learn more about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
