Vic Toews, Member of Parliament for Provencher, applauds the Harper Government for helping 1600 Canadians with disabilities get jobs.
“Our top priorities are job creation, economic growth and long-term prosperity, and we know that employers across this country are looking for workers,” said MP Toews. “That’s why I am proud that our Government is helping 1600 Canadians with disabilities get jobs through the Opportunities Fund program.”
According to a recent survey by the Bank of Montreal, 56% of small businesses in Canada have never hired anyone with a disability. When asked why they had not, the most common answer from small business owners was that they do not know how to recruit them. The Harper Government is taking action to address this problem by working with small business owners to help connect willing workers with jobs.
Through the Opportunities Fund, the Harper Government is making an investment in Canadians with disabilities. The new investment is designed to provide work experience to Canadians with disabilities that will lead to ongoing employment in small or medium-sized enterprises across Canada. Some of the projects will increase employer awareness of the valuable contribution people with disabilities can make to their businesses and the Canadian economy.
This announcement is one of a series taking place across the country. Minister Finley kicked off the nation-wide events by launching a Call for Proposals under the Opportunities Fund to deliver the funding.
“To support Canada’s continued economic growth, we must ensure that everyone who wants to work has the opportunity—including under-represented groups such as people with disabilities,” said MP Toews.
The Harper Government will partner with eligible organizations such as businesses, not-for-profit organizations, Crown corporations and educational institutions to develop and manage large-scale national projects. Organizations have until November 16, 2012 to apply. Information is available at www.servicecanada.gc.ca.
The Harper Government is improving labour market opportunities for all Canadians through a wide range of effective policies, programs and services, including the Opportunities Fund, Targeted Initiative for Older Workers, Youth Employment Strategy and labour market agreements with provinces and territories.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
