The following statement was read today by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills:

Mr. Speaker, getting people back to work is crucial for the province’s post-pandemic economic recovery. Part of that means making sure we provide students with opportunities to enter the workforce and businesses get assistance with their operating costs.

In response to the unique challenges created by COVID-19, this year our government increased funding and flexibility for student employment programs. This change will help to create 600 additional jobs, securing secure summer employment for 1,600 students.

With a one-time increase through the Workforce Development Agreement, funding for this year is over $3.7 million, up from $2.1 million last year.

As a result, we are increasing wage subsidies for private sector employers. They are now eligible to receive a wage subsidy of up to 75 per cent of the student’s hourly wage, to a maximum of $12.50 per hour. This is up from a 50 per cent subsidy in past years. In addition, our not-for-profit organizations continue to be funded at 100 per cent, to the same maximum of $12.50 per hour.

This year, we are also expanding eligibility to include part-time employment. Under the previous rules, all summer employment must be full-time, a minimum of 25 hours per week.

Mr. Speaker, the valuable experience high school and post-secondary students gain from summer jobs will help them pursue their chosen careers, right here at home.

These enhanced employment programs provide working and learning opportunities, while bringing the energy and enthusiasm of students to businesses and not-for-profits who are working towards economic recovery. I encourage employers in communities throughout the province to apply online before the deadline of May 11.

Thank you.