Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to announce today the official launch of the Small Community Employment Supports Program made possible under the Reducing the Cost of Living Strategic Initiative.
Smaller communities face many employment challenges. Youth unemployment rates in smaller communities can be double those of regional centres. Through this program, youth gain valuable work experience and develop the essential skills they need for taking advantage of rewarding employment opportunities.
This program supports the goals of the Department of Education, Culture and Employment and the priorities of the 16th Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories for sustainable, vibrant, safe communities and a diversified economy that provides all communities and regions with the opportunities people need for reaching their full potential. Through this program, employers in small and remote communities are eligible for wage subsidies for hiring and training summer students and youth.
The new program is modelled after the highly successful Youth Employment Program, and Education, Culture and Employment staff are currently promoting it to eligible employers and receiving applications. The department anticipates that this program will see similar success and expects that 45 youth and 20 employers in 27 communities will receive support through this program.
While this program is limited to small and remote communities only, the department has other similar labour market programming available to youth employers in all NWT communities. Mahsi.
Thank you, Mr. Lafferty. The honourable Minister responsible for the Status of Women, Ms. Lee.
