SAINT JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK, March 18, 2011 - People with disabilities will get work experience through the Government of Canada's support for an employment project. Rodney Weston, Member of Parliament for Saint John, 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. Weston. "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, Community Autism Centre Inc.'s project will allow the participant to receive orientation towards the operations of the organization as it pertains to its responsibilities, and will include Workplace Health and Safety procedures. In addition, the participant will assist in the application process regarding grants and other funding avenues as well as general support of the daily operation of the Community Autism Centre. He will also assist in the design and development of monthly report and newsletter for the board and parents involved in the centre.
Community Autism Centre Inc. will receive funding worth over of $16,000 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):
Ryan Sparrow
Director of Communications
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 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.