Appearance by the Minister before the Standing Committee on HUMA - October 16, 2023

Official title: Appearance by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth before the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (HUMA)

Date: October 16, 2023

Study: Canada Summer Jobs

The Deputy Minister was also present and received the binder for this parliamentary committee appearance.

Opening remarks

Opening Remarks for The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, for Appearance before the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (HUMA) on Canada Summer Jobs, House of Commons, October 16, 2023.

Good morning/afternoon Mr. Chair, and members of the committee, thank you for inviting me to join you today. First, I want to acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishnaabeg People.

Mr. Chairman, I appreciate this opportunity to talk about the Canada Summer Jobs program. It’s a key program for young Canadians across the country, serving as a gateway to the labour market.

For many it provides their first taste of paid work. And for others, it offers the opportunity to gain real world work experience in their chosen field of study. And overall, the CSJ program is a success. According to surveys from last year, over 70% of participants reported being very satisfied with their work experience.

CSJ Program investments

Clearly, this is a program well worth the investments we made. To recap:

It worked, Mr. Chairman.

Youth employment has bounced back to its pre-pandemic level.

In fact, the most recent data shows that 65,000 more youth were working in August this year than before the pandemic.

And to bring us up to date, in the 2022 Fall Economic Statement, our stated goal was to create 70,000 summer job placements in 2023.

More good news, Mr. Chairman.

We exceeded that target and through supports to employers, we were able to create more than 85,000 summer job opportunities for youth.

I should add that we boosted Canada Summer Job funding by 6% compared to pre- pandemic levels.

We have always been transparent when it comes to the details around this program. Every year, the number of jobs created, and the list of funded organizations is posted publicly and will continue to be.

CSJ program evaluation

As you know, the Canada Summer Jobs is part of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy which offers a variety of job-related opportunities to young Canadians— including supportive services, such as mental health and dependent care supports.

The aim is to fund programs that will help all Canadian youth aged between 15 and 30 develop the skills and experience they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

Mr. Chairman, these investments are giving youth real opportunities to gain valuable work experience.

This is especially true for those facing systemic barriers to employment due to their gender, race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, disability, or other intersecting identities.

I’m proud to tell you that the Canada Summer Jobs program is achieving that goal and supporting young Canadians as they start on the road to building long and successful careers. The program is open to all youth, but prioritizes jobs that help youth furthest from employment and in sectors that need extra support.

But even the most successful ventures profit from thoughtful evaluation. You might recall that in Budget 2023 we announced the introduction of cross-government effectiveness reviews, to be led by the President of the Treasury Board.

The first review will focus on skills training and youth programming. It will determine what improvements we can make to these programs.

So, we’re not resting on our laurels. If there are improvements to make, we will make them.

I’m sure we all agree that it’s not only in the interests of our young people that these programs continue to have a positive impact. It’s also in Canada’s interests.

Our young people. Our future.

Mr. Chair, Colleagues – I’ll leave it there.

Again, thank you for this opportunity. I value your support and input. I now look forward to taking your questions.

Thank you.

Canada Summer Jobs – Program budget

Issue/Question

Why is the CSJ 2023 and 2024 budget lower?

Suggested response

Key information

Youth faced the greatest job loss during the pandemic. The overall unemployment rate for youth aged 15 to 24 peaked at 30% in May 2020. In response, the Government made historic investments to Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy to help youth, especially those facing barriers, to find and maintain good jobs.

The Canadian economy is doing well in many ways post pandemic. While the unemployment rate reached a new historical low of 5.0% in 2023 Q1 (rising to 5.2% in 2023 Q2 as labour market tightness eased), and youth unemployment rate is closer to the pre-pandemic average at 10.9% (August 2022 to July 2023), they still experience a doubling of the unemployment rate compared to the general population. A trend that has persisted for the past year.

Investment

The 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced $400.5 million over two years, starting in 2023 to 2024, for Canada Summer Jobs to support a total of approximately 70,000 annual summer job placements. This aligns with the Government’s announcement, in 2016, to double the number of summer jobs from over 34,000 in 2015 to nearly 70,000 in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

For CSJ 2023, the program budget was $278.7M compared to $454.3M for CSJ 2022. While program funding has now re-aligned closer to pre-pandemic levels, it is still higher than the 2019 budget of

$263M. For CSJ 2024, the budget is set to support another 70,000 job opportunities.

Funding allocation

The formula to allocate CSJ 2023 funding to Federal Electoral District (constituency) has remained the same since 2016. Funding is allocated to Canada’s 338 constituencies on the basis of the Labour Force Survey and the most recent census. As a result, constituencies with higher levels of unemployed youth will receive a greater allocation than constituencies with lower levels of unemployment.

The formula is composed of historical allocations as well as labour market realities, based on

unemployment data from both the local and provincial levels. It uses Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey data to determine the number of unemployed youth aged 15 to 29 years during the summer months (May to August), and Census data on the number of unemployed youth aged 15 to 30.

Each year, employers withdraw and/or are unable to find youth to fill the number of CSJ positions they were approved for as the projects take place during the summer months. At the beginning of the program cycle budgets, an Authorized Commitment Level (ACL) is included, which allows a specified over-commitment of funds, above the initial program budget, in order to meet the job creation targets.

CSJ 2023 budget, including an Authorized Commitment Level (ACL), was about $334.5M (verses

$545.1M for CSJ 2022 which targeted 100,000 job placements). There may have been a perceived decrease for some constituencies due to a change in how the ACL is applied. In 2021, it moved towards a fixed 20% ACL rather than a varied ACL ranging between 9% to 45%.

CSJ 2023 base program budget (without an ACL), however, increased by 6% when compared to CSJ 2019 budget which also targeted 70,000 youth placements.

Background

CSJ is part of the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS). The YESS helps young people, particularly those facing barriers to employment, gain work experience and develop the skills they need to transition successfully into the labour market.

CSJ is delivered by Employment and Social Development Canada. It provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public-sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees, to create quality summer job opportunities for young people between the ages of 15 and 30.

The CSJ program provides youth with opportunities to develop and improve their skills, and for some, it is their first job experience. The program is also responsive to national and local labour market priorities.

Many youth continue to need support, including those from under-represented groups (for example, youth with disabilities, Indigenous youth, Black and other racialized youth groups, etc.). For example:

Below is a table comparing base level program allocations in 2019 and 2023.

Table 1: Canada Summer Jobs - Comparison of allocation of funding per provinces and territories
Province/Territory 2019 Provincial/Territorial budget 2023 Provincial/Territorial budget
Newfoundland and Labrador $8,161,374 $8,372,051
Prince Edward Island $1,461,632 $1,522,711
Nova Scotia $8,746,433 $9,224,441
New Brunswick $7,919,995 $8,230,699
Quebec $53,813,925 $56,327,889
Ontario $104,191,256 $111,451,654
Manitoba $8,169,985 $8,676,318
Saskatchewan $7,712,853 $7,560,570
Alberta $27,931,439 $29,851,435
British Columbia $26,382,679 $28,321,263
Yukon $398,730 $427,765
Northwest Territories $410,009 $450,197
Nunavut $269,181 $331,499
Canada Total Constituency AllocationsFootnote 1 $255,029,490 $270,748,490

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) Program

Issue/question

Purpose overview of the YESS Program and program complementarity with Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ).

Suggested response

Key information

The Government has a mandate commitment to continue scaling up youth and student skills and employment programming and initiatives for Canadian youth. The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), which includes the YESS Program and Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ), plays a key role in delivering on this commitment.

Investment

In response to the pandemic, the Government made historic investments to Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) to help youth, especially those facing barriers, to get and keep good jobs.

In 2023-24, funding has been restored to pre-pandemic levels.

The 2022 Fall Economic Statement allocated $802.1 million over 3 years starting in 2022 to 2023 for the YESS:

Results

In fiscal year 2021 to 2022:

which ESDC’s program supported over 23,500 youth, with the following results:

In 2023 to 2024 and 2024 to 2025, the YESS Program will aim to create approximately 20,000 opportunities annually. Of that ESDC’s YESS Program will support about 5,000 opportunities per year. CSJ targets are 70,000 job opportunities annually.

YESS investments are yielding good results. The mid-cycle assessment of the YESS by ESDC’s Evaluation Directorate found that from April 2020 to December 2022, 4 out of 5 (81%) of ESDC YESS Program participants had returned to school or were in employment after participation.

Background

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS)

The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) is a horizontal initiative that includes 15 different programs delivered by 12 federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations. It supports youth between the ages of 15 and 30 to gain the work experience and develop the skills they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS Program)

The YESS Program, delivered by the 12 department, agencies and crown corporations, allows the government to address gaps across several sectors and reach a variety of youth specific to the mandate of each Department and program goals.

The ESDC YESS Program provides funding to organizations to deliver a range of activities that help youth (aged 15 to 30) overcome barriers to employment, particularly those further from opportunity (for example, those not in education, employment or training (NEET), underrepresented and disadvantaged youth).

The ESDC YESS Program recognizes that youth face multiple barriers to employment and require individualized supports to gain work experience and develop the skills needed to successfully transition into the labour market. Youth who face barriers often include:

Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ)

CSJ is delivered solely by ESDC. It provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees. The program helps create quality summer employment opportunities for young Canadians.

Program complementarity

The YESS Program and CSJ both support the overarching objectives of the YESS to provide Canadian youth with information, skills development, supports, work experience and networks to help them prepare for and successfully transition to sustained employment.

While the YESS Program supports a broad range of tailored and individualized supports to help youth transition into the labour market, the CSJ is focused on the creation of quality summer employment opportunities for youth.

YESS Program supports can include mentorship, skills development and training, wrap-around supports (e.g., dependent care support, mental health counselling) and paid work experiences.

Through the creation of employment opportunities, CSJ enables youth to develop and improve their skills, and in many cases gain first work experience. While the program is focused on job creation, it can also include mentorship and skills development components.

Canada Summer Jobs – Impact of Summer Jobs program

Issue/question

What is the Impact of Canada Summer Jobs program on youth and employers?

Suggested response

The Canada Summer Jobs program provides youth with access to summer work experiences that enable them to acquire the skills, learning experiences and opportunities they need to find and maintain employment or return to school.

In 2022, almost 33,847 employers took part in the program, creating more than 115,000 jobs for youth with $403.8 million provided in funding.

Canada Summer Jobs has a proven track record in support of employers and youth who have recognized the important role the program played in their skills development and employment experience. For example:

A Canada Summer Jobs experience can also lead to longer employment opportunities. Almost half of youth participants in 2022 accepted an offer for continued employment after the completion of their Canada Summer Jobs term.

Key information

Employers

Of the 48,506 applications received, in 2022, 41,039 projects were approved to receive funding.

Of the total projects funded, in 2022, 59% were in the not-for-profit sector, 29% were in the private sector, and 12% were in the public sector.

The Canada Summer Jobs 2022 mandatory employer survey shows that a high proportion of employers (80%) indicated that helping youth and/or the community is what motivated them to hire through Canada Summer Jobs, which suggests that employers feel they are providing a quality job placement to help youth gain skills, work experience and supports to transition to the labour market.

Youth

The Canada Summer Jobs 2022 participant survey is voluntary. Of the 38,178 youth who responded, the survey shows that high proportion of youth participants (89%) indicated that they have developed a positive attitude about their future employment prospects, which suggests that youth feel the program is helping them gain skills and work experience.

As part of their Canada Summer Jobs experience, a high majority (89%) of youth participants developed a positive attitude about their future employment prospects because they received job supports, such as mentoring and training, while developing and strengthening skills, they need to find and maintain employment or return to school:

Background

In line with the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, the objectives of Canada Summer Jobs are to:

In 2023, Canada Summer Jobs addressed the following five national priorities:

  1. Youth with disabilities
  2. Black and other racialized youth
  3. Indigenous youth
  4. Small businesses and not-for-profit organizations that self-report as having leadership from groups that are underrepresented in the labour market
  5. Small businesses and not-for-profit organizations in environmental sectors

Canada Summer Jobs – Profile of Employees (Demographics)

Issue/question

What is the profile/demographic of youth hired through the Canada

Suggested response

Canada Summer Jobs helps employers across the country create quality summer job placements for youth, aged 15 to 30.

In fact, over 85,000 summer job placement opportunities were approved this summer.

Canada Summer Jobs prioritizes support for youth facing barriers to employment and those that are underrepresented in the labour market. In 2022, CSJ supported:

Canada Summer Jobs supports youth who are early in their career journeys. More than 75% of youth served through Canada Summer Jobs are between the ages of 15 and 22.

From a gender lens, in 2022, over 60% of participants identified as women. While more work is required to better understand the full spectrum of gender identities served, 3% of participants identified as non- binary or gender diverse.

Key information

Canada Summer Jobs 2022 supported the creation of over 115,000 jobs for youth. Out of the 38,178 youth who responded to the voluntary participant survey:

Additionally, based on Canada Summer Jobs 2022 youth survey results:

Background

Canada Summer Jobs is delivered by Employment and Social Development Canada under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, a Government of Canada initiative that supports youth between the ages of 15 and 30 to gain the work experience and develop the skills they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

In line with the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy modernization, the objectives of Canada Summer Jobs are to:

Funding and job placement targets

Issue/question

Why CSJ funding and job targets were lower in 2023 compared to 2022.

Suggested response

Background

The Canadian economy is doing well in many ways post pandemic. While the unemployment rate reached a new historical low of 5.0% in 2023 Quarter 1 and youth unemployment rate is closer to the pre-pandemic average at 10.9% (August 2022 to July 2023), youth still experience a doubling of the unemployment rate compared to the general population.

Investment

The 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced $400.5 million over two years, starting in 2023 to 2024, for Canada Summer Jobs to support a total of approximately 70,000 annual summer job placements.

This aligns with the 2016 Government’s announcement to double the number of summer jobs from

34,000 in 2015 to 70,000 in the following years.

For both years 2023 and 2024, the Canada Summer Jobs funding is set to support 70,000 job opportunities per year.

The Canada Summer Jobs budget was $278.7M in 2023 compared to $454.3M in 2022, but still higher than the 2019 funding of $263M.

Table 2: Canada Summer Jobs - planned allocation, target, expenditure and youth served
Fiscal year Planned allocationFootnote 2  ($m) Youth target Total expenditureFootnote 3  ($m) Youth served Funding allocation source
2019 to 2020 $296.4 70,000 $310.3 79,279 Base, B18, Offcycle19
2020 to 2021 $339.9 80,000 $293.3 67,718 Base, Covid, Offcycle20
2021 to 2022 $569.0 120,000 $513.2 124,747 Base, FES20
2022 to 2023 $494.6 100,000 $447.6 115,003 Base, B21
2023 to 2024 $322.8 70,000 n/a n/a Base, FES22
2024 to 2025 $323.3 70,000 n/a n/a Base, FES22
2025 to 2026 $122.8 25,000 n/a n/a Base only
2026 to 2027 $122.8 25,000 n/a n/a Base only

Canada summer jobs – MP engagement & information kits

Issue/question

Members of Parliament play a unique role in Canada Summer Jobs by setting local priorities, providing feedback, notifying employers and promoting the program.

Suggested response

In comparison to other contribution programs, Members of Parliament play a unique role in Canada Summer Jobs.

Members of Parliament have an important role to play by:

The Department remains responsible for the oversight and delivery of the Canada Summer Jobs program, adherence to its terms and conditions and financial stewardship of public funds.

Key information

Local priorities are established for each constituency by Members of Parliament throughout the country taking into account local labour market information.

The department ensures the promotion of the program and also invite Members of Parliament to do so as well who promote the application period and results in their constituency.

Each Member of Parliament is invited to provide feedback on the list of eligible projects for their constituency, based on their knowledge of local priorities and circumstances.

Members of Parliament also have the opportunity to notify approved employers before Service Canada notifies them.

Background

Each year, prior to the launch of the call for applications, Members of Parliament are invited to provide up to five (5) Local Priorities for their constituency. It is not mandatory for Members of Parliament to establish local priorities. Applicants are not penalized during assessment if their Member of Parliament has not established Local Priorities.

Another key area of Members of Parliament role providing feedback on the list of eligible projects for their constituency during the Members of Parliament Review Phase. This is to ensure that their knowledge of local priorities and circumstances is taken into consideration; however, their participation is not mandatory.

Members of Parliament cannot recommend jobs for less than 8 weeks; this is to support the program objectives of providing quality jobs for youth, full-time jobs must be for a minimum of 8 weeks and 35 hours per week unless the employer requests jobs of a shorter duration.

Starting in Canada Summer Jobs 2023, Members of Parliament had an additional opportunity to identify 5 projects that they wanted to see funded if additional funds become available in their constituency (example: when employers are unable to hire all of the youth approved.).

Through the process, Members of Parliament have to adhere to the Conflict-of-Interest Code for Members of the House of Commons.

Service Canada makes the final funding decision.

Program monitoring / program integrity measures

Issue/question

What program integrity measures has the Government of Canada implemented to ensure that recipients of Canada Summer Jobs funding are eligible for the program?

Suggested response

The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that the Canada Summer Jobs program supports quality summer job placements for youth that take place in safe, inclusive, and healthy work environments that are free from harassment and discrimination.

Employers who are approved for Canada Summer Jobs funding sign agreements confirming that they have understood and will comply with the rules of the program.

All approved projects are managed on an ongoing basis by Service Canada to ensure compliance with the program.

Furthermore, a number of projects are selected for monitoring each year to ensure terms and conditions are being met. Monitoring can include a review of the project’s activities, financial information and results.

Where there is a potential breach of the funding agreement, the Department works to resolve issues directly with employers by seeking clarification or requesting additional documentation.

In situations where an organization fails to demonstrate that they meet the Terms and Conditions of the approved agreement, they will not be reimbursed for the youth salaries. Funding could be revoked and any advances issued would need to be returned. The organization’s consideration for future funding may be affected.

Key information

All Canada Summer Jobs applications are screened and assessed against the following 15 eligibility requirements outlined in the program Applicant Guide:

  1. Application must be submitted before the deadline
  2. Attestation box must be checked
  3. Application must be complete
  4. Employer must be eligible
  5. Project activities must be eligible
  6. Job duration: Must be between 6 and 16 consecutive weeks
  7. Job hours: Must be full-time (30 to 40 hours per week)
  8. Other sources of funding
  9. Salary
  10. Money owing to the Government of Canada
  11. Health and safety
  12. Hiring practices and work environment
  13. Supervision
  14. Mentoring
  15. Past results

As necessary, Service Canada sends missing information and clarification letters to applicants should there be any information missing or clarifications required with their application. At the time of submitting their application, all applicants are required to sign an attestation and, in doing so, are confirming that: they have read, understood, and will comply with the Canada Summer Jobs Articles of Agreement. More specifically all applicants are confirming they have the authorities and permission to submit an application on behalf of their organization; the information presented is true and accurate; and, that funding will not be used to undermine or restrict the exercise of rights legally protected in Canada.

Organizations that meet these conditions are assessed and considered eligible for funding.

When an organization has been approved for funding but is later found to be in default of the Articles of Agreement, the Department reserves the right to revoke the funding that was approved.

Background

Canada Summer Jobs provides funding for not-for-profit organizations, public-sector employers, and small businesses with 50 or fewer employees to create summer job opportunities for youth.

The program objectives focus on providing quality summer work experiences to youth, responding to National and Local Priorities to improve access to the labour market for youth who face unique barriers, and providing opportunities for youth to develop and improve their skills.

The Department conducts several monitoring activities, including financial monitoring to ensure that funding was used according to the Terms and Conditions outlined in the Agreement with each organization.

The Articles of Agreement details the financial records and audit requirements of the program, including the following: “In the event that financial irregularities are discovered, Canada may verify information with the Canada Revenue Agency.”

Results from previously funded projects, including termination, are considered in eligibility and funding decisions.

Funding allocation methodology

Issue/question

How the Canada Summer Jobs funding is allocated to Federal Electoral Districts.

Suggested response

Background

Target

Youth targets are set by Cabinet and calculated based on an average cost per youth of about $4,000. The cost per participant is based on the average minimum wage of all provinces and territories and the average hours of work (for example, 280 hours in 2023).

While Departmental cost estimates are based on the assumption of 100% wage subsidy, depending on the organization type (in other words, for-profit organization), the employer may be only eligible for 50% coverage. For this reason, actuals expenditure may vary despite reaching target goals.

Allocation methodology

Prior to 2016, CSJ funding was allocated primarily based on historical allocation. From 2016 to 2018, a new allocation model was developed and was informed by labour market needs to better respond to the local labour market realities. To ensure some predictability, the new allocation model methodology, while evidence-based, was only applied to incremental funding investments, while maintaining the previous year funding levels.

The formula is composed of historical allocation as well as labour market realities, based on unemployment data from both provincial and local levels.

When the YESS was modernized in 2019, the move to a more fulsome evidence-based approach was approved. However, to mitigate any significant fluctuations in constituent levels during the pandemic, this work was placed on hold and the current two-phased approach was preserved.

A two-phased approach includes: (1) historic levels are based on 2019 funding; and (2) an evidence- based application to the remaining funding as follows:

For CSJ 2023, the evidence-based approach accounts for approximately 6% ($16M) of the total funding ($271M).

Also new in CSJ 2024 will be the use of the Census 2021 data as it is now available.

The transition to more evidence methodology is anticipated to happen over several CSJ cycles, in an effort to mitigate a significant drop to any one constituency. Options on how to approach the transition are currently under development.

Table 3: Canada Summer Jobs - Comparison of allocation of funding per provinces and territories
Province/territory 2019 Provincial/territorial budget 2023 Provincial/territorial budget
Newfoundland and Labrador $8,161,374 $8,372,051
Prince Edward Island $1,461,632 $1,522,711
Nova Scotia $8,746,433 $9,224,441
New Brunswick $7,919,995 $8,230,699
Quebec $53,813,925 $56,327,889
Ontario $104,191,256 $111,451,654
Manitoba $8,169,985 $8,676,318
Saskatchewan $7,712,853 $7,560,570
Alberta $27,931,439 $29,851,435
British Columbia $26,382,679 $28,321,263
Yukon $398,730 $427,765
Northwest Territories $410,009 $450,197
Nunavut $269,181 $331,499
Canada Total Constituency Allocation Footnote 4  $255,029,490 $270,748,490

Canada summer jobs program parameters

Issue/Question

Who can apply for the Canada Summer Jobs program and what are the program parameters?

Suggested response

The Canada Summer Jobs program offers wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees to create summer job placements for youth aged 15 to 30.

Not-for-profit employers can receive funding for up to 100% of the provincial or territorial adult minimum hourly wage. Other employers are eligible to receive 50% of the provincial or territorial minimum hourly wage.

As the objective of the Canada Summer Jobs program is to support youth entering the Canadian labour market, youth participants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or persons to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Key information

Eligible projects must provide full-time work experience in Canada (30 to 40 hours a week) for a minimum of six weeks and a maximum of 16 weeks, during the summer, starting as early as April and ending by September at the latest.

To maintain a quality work placement, the Department recommends a job duration of at least 8 weeks and 35 hours per week, and a maximum job duration of 16 weeks for projects in rural communities and in the North.

Exceptions to the full-time employment continue to be made for employer requests to hire youth with disabilities that cannot work full-time. Employers may also be eligible for additional funding for overhead costs to accommodate youth with disabilities within the work environment.

Eligible projects must provide a work experience in an inclusive non-discriminatory work environment that respects the rights of all Canadians.

All applications are screened for eligibility against the 15 mandatory eligibility requirements that include components related to mentoring, supervision, and ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment that is free from harassment:

  1. Application must be submitted before the deadline
  2. Attestation box must be checked
  3. Application must be complete
  4. Employer must be eligible
  5. Project activities must be eligible
  6. Job duration must be between 6 and 16 consecutive weeks
  7. Job hours must be full-time (30- to 40 hours per week)
  8. Organization must declare whether they have applied, will apply, or have received other sources of funding for the job(s) requested
  9. Salary must respect minimum wage requirements of the province/territory
  10. Organization must declare any money owing to the Government of Canada
  11. Organization must demonstrate they have implemented adequate measures to ensure youth awareness of health and safety practices in the work environment
  12. Organizations must demonstrate they have implemented adequate measures to ensure that hiring practices and the work environment are free of harassment and discrimination
  13. Supervision plan must be outlined
  14. Mentoring plan must be outlined
  15. Past results: The Department will review all files associated with the organization to verify if there is documented evidence from previous agreements with the Department that would render an application ineligible (including but not limited to financial irregularities, health and safety concerns, past project default or other results)

In an effort to provide Canadian youth with the highest quality summer placements, the Department assesses all eligible applications received and recommends the projects that score the highest against the assessment criteria which includes the following factors: salary above minimum wage, employee retention plan, quality of the supervision and mentoring plans, the opportunity to develop skills and how the project supports National and Local Priorities.

Ineligible employers include Members of the House of Commons and the Senate or members of their immediate family; Federal Government Departments and Agencies; Provincial Departments and Agencies; and, Organizations that engage in partisan political activities.

Investment

The Fall Economic Statement 2022 provided funding in 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to support the program’s target of creating 70,000 jobs per year – realigning investments to pre-pandemic job levels.

The 2023-2024 Canada Summer Jobs allocation is $278.72 million, which is a 6% increase compared to pre-pandemic budget. This consists of the $171.1 million from the 2022 Fall Economic Statement funding and the $107.6 million from A-base funding.

The program has an Authorized Commitment Level (ACL) allowing for an overcommitment of funds, above the program’s base budget, to account for employer withdrawals and other slippage factors that occur every program cycle.

Results

For Canada Summer Jobs 2022, 33,847 employers took part in the program, creating more than 115,000 jobs.

Of the total projects funded, 59% were in the not-for-profit sector, 29% were in the private sector, and 12% were in the public sector.

For Canada Summer Jobs 2023, 46,107 applications were received for a total of 234,121 jobs requested, representing over 300% of the job target. This summer, more than 85,000 summer job placements were made available for young people. The confirmed number of jobs actually created will be know in the winter after all final claims have been processed and is expected to meet the target of 70,000.

Background

Canada Summer Jobs is delivered under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, a Government of Canada initiative that supports youth between the ages of 15 and 30 to gain the work experience and develop the skills they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

In line with the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, the objectives of the Canada Summer Jobs program are to:

In 2022, the program returned to its usual parameters.

OAG audit overview

Issue/question

The OAG performs an audit of the Canada Summer Jobs (not yet announced).

Suggested response

Background

Initially, the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) was exploring an expanded focus with this audit on the broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. Potentially including federal efforts to help youth – particularly those facing barriers – acquire the skills, learning experiences and opportunities needed to find and maintain employment or return to school.

In August 2023, the OAG modified the focus to the Canada Summer Jobs program. This decision was informed by OAG engagement of the Treasury Board Secretariat. In particular, agreement that the audit would complement the Budget 2023 announcement of cross-governmental effectiveness review on skills training and youth programming.

The objective of the audit is to determine whether ESDC provided wage subsidies to qualified employers that resulted in youth gaining work experience, particularly those facing barriers.

The OAG anticipates sharing the draft report with the Department for review in late Fall 2023 with a tabling to Parliament in March 2024.

2023 Horizontal review of youth and skills programming

Issue/question

What is the 2023 Horizontal Skills Review, and will youth programming be affected?

Suggested response

Investment

All ESDC youth programs under the purview of Minister Ien are scoped in for this review, including the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program (including those YESS programs delivered by all federal partners), Canada Summer Jobs, the Student Work Placement Program, and the Canada Service Corps.

Results

The 2023 review will provide a comprehensive understanding of the suite of Skills and Youth programs, in terms of their activities, clients, resourcing and outcomes. Through this review process, the Government aims to identify options for realigning resources to achieve greater impact.

Treasury Board Secretariat will use the results of the review to inform recommendations it will make to the Department of Finance in preparation for Budget 2024 regarding potential programming gaps, as well as spending prioritizations and reallocations.

Project examples

Not applicable.

Background

The President of Treasury Board’s mandate letter (December 2021) directs that the President “Initiate a comprehensive and continuous strategic policy review of government programs to examine how major programs and policies contribute to meeting the biggest challenges of our time, including achieving net- zero emissions by 2050, improving fairness and equality and promoting quality of life and growth for everyone.”

Budget 2023 officially launched the review process, announcing “the introduction of cross-government program effectiveness reviews, to be led by the President of the Treasury Board. The first review examines skills training and youth programming, to determine, by Budget 2024, whether improvements can be made to help more Canadians develop the skills and receive the work experience they need to have successful careers.”

The current review follows the 2018-2019 Horizontal Review of Skills Programming (HRSP). That review was grounded in concerns about changing skills needs due to emerging technologies – artificial intelligence, advanced robotics, and others. The 2023 review is similar, but broader: preparing Canadians with skills for success in the labour market.

In addition to providing information to TBS as part of the 2023 review, implicated departments are also preparing updates, where relevant, on progress made on the 25 recommendations stemming from the 2018-2019 HRSP.

Scenario note

HUMA’s mandate gives it the broad authority to study employment, labour, income security, skills development and disability issues, as well as the policies, programs, expenditures (budgetary estimates), and legislation of departments and agencies that impact these issues, including those programs administered by Employment and Social Development Canada.

In the 44th Parliament, the committee studied:

HUMA has invited you to appear in relation to its study on the Canada Summer Jobs wage subsidy program as per its June 13 motion:

That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee undertake a study on the Canada Summer jobs wage subsidy program, to determine how it can be modified to improve funding and flexibility; that the Committee invite the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, department officials and experts, as well as organizations benefiting from the program to testify; that the committee hold a minimum of four (4) meetings; that the committee report its findings to the House; and that, pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee request that the government table a comprehensive response to the report. It is likely that the Committee wishes to complete its study before the next application period ramps up in preparation for next year’s program and a minimum of four meetings has been dedicated to it. For context, although HUMA has not recently undertaken a specific study on the Canada Summer Jobs program, on February 27, 2020, Louise Chabot (BQ, Thérèse-De Blainville) moved the following motion:

That pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee study the Canada Summer Jobs Program to measure the program outcomes; that the committee reports its finding, including its recommendations, to the House and the government respond to the committee’s recommendations.

The motion was adopted but never followed up on due to the prioritization of different studies during the pandemic.Ms. Chabot put Q-1463 on notice on April 27th, 2023, which requested a breakdown of program funding for the fiscal year 2023-24 across all federal Canadian 338 ridings. This required the breakdown by dollar amount, positions created and hours and the disparity between funds requested versus those allocated and specified that the methodology and formulas used to determine the funding granted to each riding be disclosed. Finally, it specified that the percentage of the overall funding and the allocation to ridings in Quebec since 2006-07 be broken down by percentage and dollar terms by fiscal year. Ms. Chabot had put a similar question, Q-421, on notice in 2021, which requested a breakdown of program funding for the fiscal year 2019-2020. That question also specified a funding breakdown by fiscal year since 2015-2016. She has also expressed concerns regarding the indexing of funds for the program to the minimum wage to ensure sufficient funds are allocated and has raised concerns that smaller organizations do not have the same resources as their larger counterparts when it comes to proceeding through the application process.

Another member of HUMA, Scott Aitchison (Parry Sound—Muskoka, PC), passed written question Q-296 on March 21, 2022, requesting a breakdown by federal riding of which employers enrolled in the Summer Jobs program were randomly selected for inspections or audits and the number of interviews conducted by government officials with their employees. Further, in the past, there have been concerns raised at Committee and in the House of Commons as to the level of funding allocated to the program and the access to these funds by non-profit groups, including religious organizations.

For this appearance, you will have up to 5 minutes for opening remarks and will be accompanied by the following officials: Frances McCrae, Deputy Minister, Women and Gender Equality and YouthCatherine Demers, Associate ADM, Skills and Employment Branch. Jennifer Tremblay, Director General, Program Operations Branch (replacing Nisa Tummon, POB ADM). Damon Rourke, Director, Youth Programs, POB, Rhonda Fernandes, Director General, Youth and Skills Innovation.

This is followed by a question-and-answer period. Questions will proceed in the following order:
Round 1 – 6 minutes for the first questioner of each party as follows: CPC, LPC, BQ, NDP
Round 2 – 5 minutes each, CPC, LPC, then 2.5 minutes each, BQ, NDP, and subsequently another 5 minutes each CPC, LPC

The committee has elected Robert Morrissey (LPC) as Chair, and Tracy Gray (CPC) and Louise Chabot (BQ) as Vice-Chairs. The committee agreed to undertake the following studies in the future:

The promotion and encouragement of intergenerational volunteerism between seniors and youth (June 13 motion, study agreed to on November 21, 2022)

That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee undertake a study regarding the different ways that the government can promote and encourage intergenerational volunteerism between seniors and youth; that the committee hold a minimum of three meetings on this issue; that the committee report its findings and recommendations to the House; and that, pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee request that the government table a comprehensive response to the report. A minimum of three meetings have been dedicated to the study of this program.

The implications of artificial intelligence technologies for the Canadian labor force (June 13 motion, study agreed to on June 2, 2023)

That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee undertake a study regarding the implications of artificial intelligence technologies for the Canadian labor force; that the study will examine the impact these technologies may have upon, including but not limited to: regions, age groups, organized labor, workforce sectors, gender, person with disabilities, income levels, and race within Canada. That the committee hold a minimum of five meetings on this study; and that the committee invite to testify representatives, including but not limited to: representatives from Statistics Canada, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, the Minister of Labour and related department officials. That the committee report its findings and recommendations to the House; and that pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee request that the government table a comprehensive response to the report. A minimum of five meetings have been dedicated to the study of this program.

Reforming existing tax credits and benefits to improve awareness accessibility and ease of access (June 13 motion, study agreed to on June 2, 2023)

That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee undertake a study on existing tax credits and benefits to determine how they can be reformed to improve awareness, accessibility, and ease of access including, but not limited to, the Disability Tax Credit, the Canada Caregiver Credit, and the Employment Insurance Caregiver Leave; that the Committee invite the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, department officials and experts to testify; that the committee hold a minimum of 2 meetings; that the committee report its findings to the House; and that, pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee request that the government table a comprehensive response to the report. A minimum of two meetings have been dedicated to the study of this program.

Review the government’s work to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities and the Auditor General of Canada's report on this matter (June 13 motion, study agreed to on June 2, 2023)

That the committee undertake a study of no less than two (2) meetings to review the government’s work to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities and the Auditor General of Canada's report on this matter; that, the Auditor General of Canada, the Minister of Transport, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, VIA Rail Canada, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, the Canadian Transportation Agency, and Air Canada be invited to appear before committee on this matter; and that the committee report its findings and recommendations to the House. A minimum of two meetings have been dedicated to the study of this program. House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (HUMA)

HUMA Membership

Liberal party of Canada

Conservative party of Canada

New democratic party of Canada

Bloc Québécois

Committee member biographies

Chad Collins Liberal Party Hamilton East—Stoney Creek - Ontario
Chad Collins

Chad Collins was first elected to the House of Commons for Hamilton East - Stoney Creek on September 20, 2021. A lifelong resident of Hamilton East - Stoney Creek, Chad resides in the Davis Creek area with his wife Mary and two children, Chase and Reese. He attended Glendale Secondary School, the University of Western Ontario, and McMaster University. Chad was first elected to City Council in 1995, at the age of 24, making him one of the youngest elected representatives in the City's history.

Chad is passionate about engaging local residents and community stakeholders, focusing on revitalization of infrastructure, development of social housing and stream- lining municipal programs.

As President of City Housing Hamilton, Chad has been committed to addressing the City's aging affordable housing stock by pressuring all levels of government to invest in the much needed repair of over 7,000 publicly owned units. He continues to work on nearly a dozen new projects across the City and in the riding that will provide new affordable housing units to those in need.

From the creation and development of new community parks and trails to the opening of a new food bank, Chad knows community consultation is an integral part of improving quality of life for everyone in Hamilton East - Stoney Creek.

Of note:

  • key issue of interest:
    • affordable housing
Michael Coteau Liberal Party Don Valley East – Ontario
Michael Coteau

Michael Coteau was first elected to the House of Commons for Don Valley East on September 20, 2021. He has served as the Member of Provincial Parliament for Don Valley East since 2011. During his time in the Ontario government, his ministerial roles include: Minister of Children and Youth Services; Minister Responsible for Anti- Racism; Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport; Minister Responsible for the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games; and Minister of Citizenship and Immigration.

Prior to entering the provincial government, Michael was elected as a school board trustee for the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) in 2003, 2006 and 2010. As a trustee, Michael advocated for student nutrition, community use of space and the use of educational technology. He initiated the ‘Community Use of Schools’ motion that drastically cut user fees and made schools more accessible to groups that offer programs for children. He helped introduce nutritional changes in schools that supported healthy food programs and increased awareness of student hunger.

Michael worked as an ESL instructor and curriculum developer before becoming a community organizer for a United Way agency in Scarborough. He was also the Marketing Manager for ABC Life Literacy, where he was responsible for the organizing of the Family Literacy Day across Canada, and was Executive Director of Alpha Plus, a national literacy organization mandated to support adult education through the use of technology.

Michael grew up in Don Valley East and attended Don Mills Middle School and Victoria Park Collegiate Institute. He holds a degree from Carleton University in Political Science and Canadian History. He and his wife Lori live in Toronto with their two daughters, Maren and Myla.

Of note:

  • spent 10 years in the Ontario legislature
  • key issues of interest:
    • low-income families
Wayne Long Liberal Party Saint John — Rothesay - New Brunswick
Wayne Long

Wayne Long was first elected to the House of Commons for Saint John — Rothesay in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019 and 2021. He is a member of the Saint John community with national and international business experience. Wayne currently serves as President of the Saint John Sea Dogs, and his efforts have helped turn the team into one of Canada’s most successful CHL hockey franchises winning the cherished Memorial Cup in 2011. That same year, Wayne was recognized with the John Horman Trophy, awarded to the Top Executive in the QMJHL.

Prior to his work with the Sea Dogs, Wayne was President of Scotiaview Seafood Inc. He was also a successful large- scale product manager with Stolt Sea Farm Inc. Wayne’s work has seen him travel across North America, negotiating contracts with national restaurant distributors, restaurant chains, and retail chains. He earned the North American Excellence in Sales and Marketing award twice. Wayne is a former Board Member for Destination Marketing and Salmon Marketing.

Wayne was born in the riding, and currently calls the area home alongside his wife, Denise, and their two children, Khristian and Konnor.

Of note:

  • has been a member of HUMA since the beginning of the 42nd Parliament (2015)
  • key issues of interest:
    • poverty
    • mental health
    • outspoken support of the Energy East oil pipeline project
    • previously broken ranks with party (Energy East, tax policy, SNC-Lavalin) which resulted in being kicked off House committees as punishment
    • frequently makes sports parallel (hockey)
    • government programs and support that benefit his constituents
Peter Fragiskatos Liberal Party PS to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities – London North Center – Ontario
Peter Fragiskatos

Peter Fragiskatos was first elected as the Member of Parliament for London North Centre in 2015.Mr. Fragiskatos previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue. Additionally, he has served as a member of the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians, the Standing Committee on Finance, and the Special Committee on Canada-China Relations. He was also a member of various other committees, parliamentary associations, and interparliamentary groups.

Prior to entering federal politics, Mr. Fragiskatos was a political scientist at King’s University College at Western University and a media commentator. His works have been published by major Canadian and international news organizations, including Maclean’s, The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, BBC News, and CNN.

Born in London, Ontario, Mr. Fragiskatos has combined his passion for politics with a desire to give back to his community. He has served on the boards of Anago (Non) Residential Resources Inc. and the Heritage London Foundation. An active volunteer, he ran a youth mentorship program and has worked with many local not-for-profit groups, such as the London Food Bank, the London Cross-Cultural Learner Centre, and Literacy London, a charity dedicated to helping adults improve their literacy skills.

Mr. Fragiskatos holds a political science degree from Western University, a Master’s degree in International Relations from Queen’s University, and a PhD in International Relations from Cambridge University.

He lives in London with his wife, Katy, and their daughter, Ava.

Of note:

  • Parliamentary Secretary – PS to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
  • key issues of interest:
    • non Parliamentary Committee Member: National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (2021)
    • Canada-China relations
Robert (Bobby) J. Morrissey Liberal Party Egmont Prince Edward Island
Robert J. Morrissey

In 2015, Bobby was elected to the House of Commons and was re-elected in 2019 and 2021. He served as a Member on the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans, as well as the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities.

Previously, he was elected to the Prince Edward Island Legislative Assembly in 1982 and has dedicated his career and volunteer life to serving the residents of PEI.

Having served as MLA for nearly 20 years, Bobby has a deep understanding of his communities’ needs. He has held a number of high-profile roles within the Assembly, such as Minister of Transportation and Public Works, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism, and Opposition House Leader. He was also responsible for the redevelopment of the Canadian Forces Base Summerside and the surrounding community following its closure by the federal government in 1989. Bobby left politics in 2000 to join the private sector as a consultant specializing in government relations, fisheries, and the labour market.

Bobby has been a member of the Board of Directors for the Heart & Stroke Foundation of PEI. He was the founding member and former president of the Tignish Seniors Home Care Co-op, and Vice-Chair of Tignish Special Needs Housing.

Of note:

  • chair of HUMA
  • former member of HUMA in 2019 (briefly before the general election)
Tony Van Bynen Liberal Party Newmarket — Aurora – Ontario
Tony Van Bynen

Tony Van Bynen was first elected to the House of Commons for Newmarket-Aurora in 2019 and re-elected 2021. A resident of Newmarket for over 40 years, Tony and his wife Roxanne raised their two daughters there.

Community service, volunteerism, and helping those who need it most is what drives Tony every day. He and Roxanne have volunteered at the Southlake Hospital, and the Inn from the Cold, for over 10 years. They also deliver food for the Newmarket Food Bank, and Tony was instrumental in creating Belinda’s Place, which is a multi-purpose facility for homeless and at-risk women.

He also had the privilege of serving as the Mayor of Newmarket for 12 years. During that time, community building is what guided Tony on his mission to revitalize Main Street, renew the historic Old Town Hall, and build the Riverwalk Commons so families and friends can enjoy great public places.

Through his previous role as the President of the Chamber of Commerce, and his 30-year career in banking, Tony understands what local businesses need to thrive and grow. He’s delivered innovative solutions to help local business owners find success, including creating the Envi broadband network, so businesses in the community have ultra- high-speed connectivity, which has been particularly crucial during the pandemic.

Of note:

  •  key issues of interest:
    • focused studies to help Canadians, especially getting through the pandemic
Rosemarie Falk Conservative Party Associate Labour Critic— Battlefords-Lloydminster Saskatchewan
Rosemarie Falk

Rosemarie Falk is the Conservative candidate for Battlefords-Lloydminster. Rosemarie was born and raised in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan. Along with her husband Adam, she is now raising her children there. She has always been actively engaged in her community.

Throughout her social work career and extensive volunteer work she has worked with some of the most vulnerable members of the community. Rosemarie was first elected to the House of Commons in a by-election on December 11, 2017. Prior to this, Rosemarie worked as a registered Social Worker in Saskatchewan and has a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Calgary. She also has experience as a legal assistant specializing in family law and as a legislative assistant in federal politics.

In October 2022, under the new Conservative Party leader, she was named to the new Official Opposition's Shadow Cabinet as the Associate Shadow Minister for Labour and Associate Labour Critic.

Of note:

  • she has served as a member of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration
  • sponsor: Bill C-318, An Act to amend the Employment Insurance Act and the Canada Labour Code (adoptive and intended parents)
  • Rosemarie is committed to being a strong voice for seniors, families, taxpayers and rural communities.
  • associate Critic- Labour in the Official Opposition's shadow cabinet
Michelle Ferreri Conservative Party for Families, Children and Social Development Critic Peterborough Kawatha- Ontario
Michelle Ferreri

Michelle is the Member of Parliament for Peterborough-Kawartha and was elected in the 2021 federal election. Michelle was appointed as Shadow Minister for Tourism as part of the Conservative Shadow Cabinet for the 44th Parliament. In October 2022, under the new Conservative Party leader, she was named to the new Official Opposition's Shadow Cabinet as the Minister for Families, Children and Social Development.

Prior to being elected, Michelle was a well-known community advocate, an award-winning entrepreneur, a committed volunteer, and a highly sought-after public speaker and social media marketer.

Michelle has over 20 years’ experience in media, marketing and public speaking. During her time as a reporter, one of Michelle’s most memorable experiences was when she had the opportunity to visit the Canadian Forces Base, Alert and fly to the station on a C-17 Globemaster.

Michelle is a graduate of Trent University (Biology/Anthropology) and Loyalist College (Biotechnology). Her education in science has led her to be a passionate advocate for physical and mental health.

She is a proud mother of three children, between the ages of 12 and 17, and shares her life with her supportive partner, Ryan, and his three daughters.

Of note:

  • she is a member of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women since December 9, 2021
  • Michelle is interested in physical and mental health, housing, the economy and food security
  • Critic- Families, Children and Social Development in the Official Opposition's shadow cabinet
Tracy Gray Conservative Party Employment, Future Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion Critic Calgary Midnapore – Kelowna- Lake Country- British Columbia
Tracy Gray

Tracy was elected to serve as Member of Parliament for the riding of Kelowna-Lake Country in October 2019. In October 2022, under the new Conservative Party leader, she was named to the new Official Opposition's Shadow Cabinet as the Shadow Minister for Employment, Future Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion.

She previously served as Shadow Minister for Interprovincial Trade and as the Shadow Minister for Export Promotion and International Trade. Tracy has extensive business experience and worked most of her career in the BC beverage industry.

She founded and owned Discover Wines VQA Wine Stores, which included the number one wine store in BC for 13 years. She is has been involved in small businesses in different sectors including financing, importing, oil and gas service and a technology start-up.

The daughter of a firefighter and Catholic School teacher, Tracy grew up around service and a strong work ethic. She has one son and been married for 27 years.

Tracy has received many accolades including RBC Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of the year, Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award and 100 New Woman Pioneers in BC. Tracy served with many organisations over the years.

She was appointed to serve by BC Cabinet to the Passenger Transportation Board and elected to the Board of Prospera Credit Union for 10 years. In addition, she served on the Okanagan Film Commission, Clubhouse Childcare Society, Okanagan Regional Library Trustee and Chair of the Okanagan Basin Water Board.

Of note:

  • Critic – Employment, Future Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion in the Official Opposition's shadow cabinet
  • sponsor: Bill C-283, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (addiction treatment in penitentiaries) and M-46 National Adoption Awareness Month (outside order of precedence)
Scott Aitchison Conservative Party Housing and Diversity and Inclusion Critic—Parry Sound—Muskoka - Ontario
Scott Aitchison

Scott Aitchison was born and raised in Huntsville, Ontario. After leaving home at 15, Scott was raised by the character of his hometown. In October 2022, under the new Conservative Party leader, he was named to the new Official Opposition's Shadow Cabinet as the Shadow Minister for Housing and Diversity and Inclusion.

Scott was first elected at the age of 21 to Huntsville Town Council. After serving as Town Councillor, District Councillor and Deputy Mayor, he was elected as Mayor of Huntsville in 2014 on a promise of fiscal discipline, responsible governance and excellent customer service. As Mayor, he built a reputation as a consensus-builder relentlessly focused on breaking down barriers and finding solutions.

Of note:

  • Critic – Housing and Diversity and Inclusion in the Official Opposition's shadow cabinet
Bonita Zarrillo New Democratic Party Disability Inclusion Critic Port Moody—Coquitlam British Columbia
Bonita Zarrillo

Bonita Zarrillo was first elected as Member of Parliament for Port Moody-Coquitlam in 2021. She is known to be a voice for equality and drives systemic change that puts people first. She entered public service so she could advocate for working people and to support the needs of the most vulnerable in the community. She championed buy-local as a tool for small businesses to thrive and to enable them to hire locally, challenged pipeline corporations to pay their fair share, and completed a successful housing affordability strategy that generated the most rental housing starts in her region.

On Coquitlam Council, Bonita served on the following: Fraser Health Municipal Government Advisory Council, Multiculturism Advisory Committee, Metro Vancouver Indigenous Relations Committee, Universal Access Ability Advisory Committee, and past Board Member for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. She sat on the board of two local Not-For-Profits that advocate for gender equality and speaks regularly at The Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations.

Before being elected to municipal government, Bonita worked in consumer products as a Business Analyst for companies across North America and Europe. She has a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Manitoba, a Human Resource Management Certificate from the University of Calgary and has a Computer Science Degree from CDI Montreal.

Of note:

  • Critic – Disability Inclusion
  • pledged to help Canadians through collaborative committee work
  • key issues of interest:
    • mental health and suicide prevention
    • women’s issues and gender equality
    • workers’ conditions
    • care economy
Louise Chabot Bloc Québecois Employment, Workforce Development and Labour Critic Thérèse-De Blainville - Quebec
Louise Chabot

Louise Chabot was first elected as Member of Parliament in 2019 and was re-elected in 2021. She was born in 1955 in Saint-Charles-de-Bellechasse, Quebec, is a Quebec trade unionist and politician. She was president of the Centrale des Syndicates du Québec (CSQ) from 2012 to 2018. The organization initially represented nearly 200,000 members, including 130,000 in the education and early childhood sector. She coordinated a major unionization project that resulted in the consolidation of more than 15,000 family day care managers, a first in the union world in Canada.

Of note:

  • Critic – Employment, Workforce Development & Labour Critic
  • sponsored the Committee’s study on the Review of the EI Program in 2021; critical of the EI program in general and very outspoken about seasonal workers’ trou noir and inadequate sickness benefits
  • interested in seniors’ financial security and their purchasing power
  • seek to enact federal anti-scab legislation
  • supporter of labour unions – Former president of Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ)
  • member of the consultative committee for Quebec’s Pay Equity Commission
  • advocate for increase in health transfers
  • respect for provincial jurisdictions
  • labour shortages
  • nurse by profession

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