January 5, 2011 — The Government of Canada announced a significant investment in the Canada Summer Jobs program that will create more job opportunities for students. This commitment will also support important community services and strengthen the economy.

“The economy remains our government’s top priority,” said the Hon. Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “That’s why we are creating thousands of new jobs for young Canadians, so they can find employment and gain the skills and experience they need to succeed. Our government’s investment in the Canada Summer Jobs program will create as many as 3 500 additional jobs for students next summer, strengthening the local economies of communities right across Canada.”  

Funding will be available to not-for-profit organizations, public-sector employers and small businesses to create high-quality summer job opportunities for young people aged 15 to 30 years who are full-time students and intend to return to school in the next school year. 

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Harper, our government will continue to deliver the stability needed to support and protect the economic well-being and financial security of Canadian workers and businesses,” added Minister Finley. 

The total budget for Canada Summer Jobs will be distributed across the 308 federal constituencies, with Members of Parliament consulted and encouraged to provide input to determine specific priorities in their communities. 

The Economic Action Plan is supporting Canada’s economic recovery. Since July of last year, Canada has created over 441 000 new jobs; however, the global recovery is still fragile. That’s why jobs and the economy remain the Government of Canada’s top priority as it continues to implement its job-creating, low-tax plan. 

Applications will be available on February 1, 2011 and must be submitted by February 28, 2011. Interested employers can apply online at www.servicecanada.gc.ca/csj2011  or at their local Service Canada Centre. 

Canada Summer Jobs is an important part of the Government’s long-term Youth Employment Strategy, which helps young people get the tools, skills and work experience they need to make a successful transition to the workplace.