MP Allen Encourages Organizations to Apply for Canada Summer Jobs 2009

January 07, 2009

TOBIQUE-MACTAQUAC — In February, community organizations have the opportunity to apply for funding to hire students for summer employment, and Tobique-Mactaquac MP Mike Allen hopes all eligible groups in his riding will take advantage of the program.

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, recently announced the launch of Canada Summer Jobs 2009, which supports work experiences for students, as well as organizations providing important community services.

“Too often, some of the smaller groups in Tobique-Mactaquac fail to apply for the program by the deadline and, therefore, miss out on hiring young people to help them over the summer,” Mr. Allen said. “At the same time, students in those communities don’t have the opportunity to work close to home.”

Funding will be offered to not-for-profit, public-sector and small private-sector employers to create high-quality summer job opportunities for young people 15 to 30 years old who are full-time students and intend to return to school in the next school year. Larger private-sector employers with more than 50 employees are not eligible for funding.

“Our government is committed to helping students get the work experience they need to fully participate in the job market,” said Minister Finley. “Canada Summer Jobs is one of many initiatives we offer to help students.”

The Canada Summer Jobs budget will be allocated across the 308 federal constituencies. Members of Parliament will be invited to provide input into determining specific priorities for their communities as well as validating the list of projects recommended for funding.

“With the economy the way it is right now, it is especially important that we help employers support students and community needs,” said Mr. Allen. “A lot of small businesses and non-profit organizations just don’t have the money to pay students to carry out necessary work over the summer.”

Applications will be available on February 2, 2009, and must be submitted by February 27, 2009. Mr. Allen stresses this very important deadline date. “It is imperative that applications be received on time in order to be considered,” he said. “Please, don’t wait until it’s too late to think about the summer months.”

Interested employers can apply online at www.servicecanada.gc.ca/csj2009, or at their local Service Canada Centre. More information on the program is available at the same Web site.