Ottawa, Ontario - February 1, 2012
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Hi folks.
Happy February!
As we kick off the second month of 2013…it’s not just a time to continue counting down to springtime.
It’s time to officially kick off the application period for Canada Summer Jobs 2013.
It’s time to get geared up for nearly 36 000 students to earn while they learn this summer.
Let me start by thanking the Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre for hosting this event.
You know, first-hand, just how successful this program is – because of the on-the-job-training that you’ve been able to offer to students.
But there is a much bigger strategy at play now, as we approach Canada Summer Jobs 2013.
We are facing critical skills and labour shortages in this country – and our Government is committed to closing those gaps, and preparing for the future.
An important component of this is ensuring that our young people have the skills needed by employers.
Programs like Canada Summer Jobs help students gain work experience and earn money for the upcoming school year.
It helps employers obtain willing and enthusiastic workers for the summer season.
And it spurs job creation and economic growth.
There’s no question: it’s a win-win-win… and we are proud to support the initiative.
As I mentioned earlier, Canada Summer Jobs will create up to 36 000 jobs for students this year alone.
And starting today, I am happy to announce that interested employers can apply for funding on the Service Canada web site or at Service Canada Centres.
Funding is available to not-for-profit organizations, small businesses and public sector employers.
If you’re an employer, you have until February 28, 2013 to submit your application.
Canada Summer Jobs is an important part of our Government’s national youth employment strategy. We invest $300 million every year, to help connect young people with skills, training – and jobs.
In fact, in Budget 2012, we invested an additional $50 million over two years to connect young Canadians with the jobs that are in high demand in Canada.
Our government wants to ensure that young Canadians, like so many here today, can receive the education, skills and work experience to compete in the job market.
It’s critical that they are trained to meet the needs of the labour market, and have the skills to successfully transition from school to the workplace.
By investing in our young people, we are investing in Canada.
So think about employing a student this summer. And get your application in before the end of the month.
You’ll be glad you did.
Thank you.
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