Hon. Alice Wong, P.C.

Government of Canada enhances public infrastructure with innovative technologies

Richmond, British Columbia — Alice Wong, Member of Parliament for Richmond, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification today announced a $1 million federal investment, through Western Economic Diversification Canada, to ‘green’ Metro Vancouver’s Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant in Richmond.

“Our Government is committed to strengthening our economy in these tough times by investing in science and technology,” said MP Wong. “This project will make the plant more efficient and sustainable, while showcasing state-of the-art wastewater treatment technology developed right here in British Columbia.”

Funding will allow the Metro Vancouver’s Greater Vancouver Sewerage and Drainage District to purchase, install and bring into operation leading-edge technology at the Lulu Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. Coined the “B.C. Bioenergy to Biogas Project,” innovative, locally-developed technology will allow the plant to more efficiently convert its wastewater by-product into biogas, which will then be converted into electricity and heat for use by the plant. In addition to reducing the plant’s operating costs, emissions and waste disposal by up to a third or more, this project is expected to model increased productivity of wastewater plants and enhance public infrastructure in British Columbia and Canada. Metro Vancouver is also contributing $3 million in funding to the project.

“We see this as a big step toward meeting our goals of sustainable energy, reduced emissions and improved air quality as expressed in our Sustainability Framework,” said Metro Vancouver Chair Lois Jackson. “We’re hoping to make this a sustainability showcase for wastewater treatment plants worldwide.”

Metro Vancouver is a federation of 22 communities, one electoral area and one treaty First Nation that make up metropolitan Vancouver. Metro Vancouver provides regional services to its member communities in the areas of drinking water, sewage treatment, solid waste disposal, recycling, housing and parks. Other responsibilities include management and planning for the region’s growth, development and sustainability through a series of community-approved plans and initiatives.

Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.

A lot of people, especially new residents, do not know that the elevation of the City of Richmond averages around one meter above sea level. This creates some logistical challenges, especially with flood control. Investing in our dikes and drainage systems will help. The price of flood prevention is well worth it. When the infrastructure is doing its job, Richmond continues to function. Only when there is a failure of flood control infrastructure do we tend to notice the infrastructure’s lack of presence.

The best analogy would be a car engine – when you see the “Check engine oil” light turn on, chances are your engine has already taken on some damage. Likewise, we want to make sure that Richmond’s “Check engine oil” light is never turned on, and we do this by making sure our flood protection infrastructure is well maintained.

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GOVERNMENTS FUND MORE THAN $7 MILLION IN RICHMOND FLOOD PROTECTION

RICHMOND – Canada, B.C. and the City of Richmond have approved a joint investment of nearly $7.2 million through the Building Canada Fund and Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. The projects at the Middle Arm Dike and No. 4 Road Drainage Pump Station will provide lasting flood protection for the area and create local jobs.

“Aging infrastructure is a serious, ongoing problem for all municipalities,” says Richmond MP Alice Wong. “The Government of Canada realizes the important role we need to play in funding the necessary upgrades to the No. 4 Road Pump Station and the Fraser River Middle Arm Dike. Flood Protection is such an essential task.”

“This is another example of creating good jobs through infrastructure projects,” says Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap. “These projects are a great investment in public safety and another strong boost to Richmond’s economy.”

“We were elected to get B.C. through this recession stronger than ever,” says Richmond Centre MLA Rob Howard. “That’s exactly what these types of investments will accomplish. We’re also bringing long-term improvements to our local infrastructure in the process.”

“Each new job is hugely important,” says Richmond East MLA Linda Reid. “They’re important for the people getting back to work. They’re important for the families of these workers. And they’re important for local businesses.”

Combined Federal, Provincial and Municipal funds will provide $4,810,000 for work at the No. 4 Road Drainage Pump Station. This project will conduct a major renovation of an existing drainage pump station and double its current pumping capacity. The upgrades to the station include construction and modification of the existing wet well, construction of a new motor control centre and generator building. The project also includes architectural enhancements and general site restoration and landscaping.

All three levels of government will also provide $2,387,845 for Phase 2 of the Fraser River Middle Arm Dike Upgrade. Approximately 755 linear metres of the dike between Cambie Road and Hollybridge Way will be upgraded. This upgrade will include raising the dike approximately half a metre, increasing the riprap armouring on the river face, and the construction of concrete floodwall retaining structures to act as a flood barrier.

“Upgrading Richmond’s perimeter flood protection is a high priority for our island city,” said Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “The City’s dikes and drainage pump stations are fundamental for flood protection and these improvements will help ensure we remain safe from the threat of flood when water levels rise as a result of severe weather, extreme tides or high spring runoffs.”

These projects build on a recent infrastructure funding announcement of more than $10.2 million by Canada, B.C. and the City of Richmond for sewer upgrades and water main replacement.

The Government of Canada’s 2009 Economic Action Plan includes a vast array of initiatives to help to stimulate the economy, create jobs, build consumer confidence, and assist Canadians when they need it most during this global economic recession. New large-scale infrastructure programs are one important element of this plan.

The project is funded under the Province’s three-year, $14-billion capital infrastructure program that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

Since October 2008, some 655 projects worth $4.1 billion have been announced. The projects approved to date are expected to create more than 26,000 direct jobs over three years

For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca or www.bcbuildingcanadafundcommunities.ca. Information on the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund is available at www.creatingjobs.gc.ca.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan. For more information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, call 1-800-O Canada or visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

RICHMOND SOCIAL HOUSING BENEFITS FROM B.C. – CANADA PARTNERSHIP

RICHMOND – The Governments of Canada and British Columbia are investing more than $4 million in Richmond social housing through a cost-shared Housing Renovation Partnership (HRP). This joint agreement provides funding to renovate and retrofit social housing in greatest need of repair, creating an estimated 25 jobs.

“We’re realizing two important aims with this partnership,” says Richmond East MLA Linda Reid. “We’re revitalizing social housing and creating jobs at a time when our economy needs a boost.”

“The life of these homes will be extended by years,” says Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap. “Through these two projects we are building on our investments in both social housing and economic stimulus.”

“I’m very pleased to see us enhancing the quality of life for residents of Rosewood Towers and Rosewood Village,” says Richmond Centre MLA Rob Howard. “Safeguarding existing social housing also helps to keep housing affordable.”

“This is a win-win situation,” says Richmond MP Alice Wong. “Not only will this funding improve the availability and affordability of social housing in Richmond, but at the same time these construction projects will increase employment and stimulate our local economy. Such multiple benefit scenarios as this are at the very heart of the federal government’s Economic Action Plan.”

The Rosewood Towers and Rosewood Village social housing developments will receive a total of $4,035,286 for repairs and renovations:

* Rosewood Towers will receive $3,338,786 for work to increase residents’ safety through improvements to the site (such as improved lighting), measures to enhance energy efficiency, as well as installing new windows.
* Rosewood Village will receive $696,500 for work to improve energy efficiency.

Of the total $176.76 million announced, the majority of the funding, $163.7 million will be directed toward repairs at 81 social housing developments. The remainder of the funding, $13.06 million is being allocated to renovations that are underway at provincially-owned Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotels.
The funding was made available as a result of a $365-million joint investment under an amendment to the Canada-British Columbia Affordable Housing Agreement which includes funding through Canada’s Economic Action Plan and by the Government of British Columbia.

This new initiative is part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program launched by the Province that will create up to 88,000 jobs over three years and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of the province.

Through Housing Matters BC, the Province is addressing a range of housing needs, from homelessness to affordable rental housing and homeownership. In 2009, the provincial housing budget is approximately $450 million, more than three times as much as in 2001. To find out more about affordable housing in B.C., visit www.bchousing.org.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan. For more information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, call 1-800-O Canada or visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

The City of Richmond applied for grants through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund for much needed upgrades to their water and sewage system. As the City of Richmond continues to grow, basic services such as water and sewage require maintenance and upgrades. This funding (your taxpayer dollars) will deliver benefits that the people of Richmond will see every day they turn on their water taps, or flush their toilets.

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GOVERNMENTS FUND LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE

RICHMOND – Canada, B.C. and the City of Richmond have approved a joint investment of more than $10.2 million through the Building Canada Fund and Infrastructure Stimulus Fund to get shovels in the ground on two local projects. These projects will benefit local residents by creating jobs, helping to boost the local the economy, and build longer-lasting local infrastructure.

“I’m proud to see the Government of Canada working with the Province and the City of Richmond to improve our infrastructure,” says Richmond MP Alice Wong. “This partnership shows our commitment to help strengthen B.C.’s economy and provide jobs for British Columbians.”

“We’re not just building infrastructure with these projects,” says Richmond Centre MLA Rob Howard. “We’re also building up Richmond’s local economy by getting people to work at a time when every job counts.”

“Investing in infrastructure will help us get through this recession,” says Richmond East MLA Linda Reid. “These projects will also benefit our city for many years to come. Richmond wins in the short term, medium term and long term.”

“We’re looking at dozens of good jobs being created,” says Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap. “I’m proud that we’re meeting our commitment to stimulate the economy through infrastructure spending.”

“I’m very excited to have this partnership with the federal and provincial governments,” says Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “It makes it possible for us to deliver some much needed improvements to city services.”

The combined Federal, Provincial and Municipal funds for infrastructure projects are as follows:

* $6,189,000 for the Lulu Waterworks project, which will see municipal watermains replaced by the City of Richmond in priority locations.

* $4,049,000 for sewer upgrades. The City of Richmond has identified several areas as priorities, including the Eckersly pump station and forcemain upgrades located in the City Centre. In the Hamilton area, the construction of a new pump station will service a large area currently serviced by septic systems.

The Government of Canada’s 2009 Economic Action Plan includes a vast array of initiatives to help to stimulate the economy, create jobs, build consumer confidence, and assist Canadians when they need it most during this global economic recession. New large-scale infrastructure programs are one important element of this plan.

The project is funded under the Province’s three-year, $14-billion capital infrastructure program that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

Since February about 480 projects worth $3.4 billion have been announced. These will create an estimated 21,600 jobs in communities across British Columbia.

For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca or www.bcbuildingcanadafundcommunities.ca. Information on the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund is available at www.creatingjobs.gc.ca.

The announcement of this funding was in Vancouver, but Port Metro Vancouver has operations all over Vancouver, including in Richmond at the Richmond Logistics Hub. The Richmond Logistics Hub is one component of this port, and this enhancement will help facilitate trade, and be beneficial for Richmond.

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Vancouver, British Columbia, September 23, 2009 – The Honourable Rob Merrifield, Canada’s Minister of State (Transport), today announced funding up to nearly $42 million for 14 Port Metro Vancouver infrastructure projects, under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.

The Government of Canada will provide Port Metro Vancouver with up to nearly $21 million from the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund to make important upgrades to the Port’s infrastructure. The Port will invest an identical amount.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, our Government is investing in new port projects today as part of our larger plan to create local jobs, stimulate British Columbia’s economy, and ensure Canada emerges strong from an economic downturn,” said Minister Merrifield. “We are proud to partner with Port Metro Vancouver to get these 14 projects underway, and ensure British Columbia has lasting and durable port infrastructure.”

The 14 infrastructure projects are diverse, ranging from the installation of waterlines to service the Richmond Logistics Hub, to upgrading seismic capacity of three buildings at the Lynnterm Terminal, to upgrading water and storm sewers systems on the south shore to enhance emergency preparedness for south shore terminals in the event of a fire, spill or similar event, to the creation of a Fusion centre to manage the Port’s operations and manage communications to ensure safe, secure and sustainable operations.

“Port Metro Vancouver appreciates the Government of Canada’s commitment to serve the nation’s international trade requirements through this leading gateway,” said Robin Silvester, President and Chief Executive Officer, Port Metro Vancouver. “By matching the Government of Canada’s investment, the Port will help deliver the transportation infrastructure our commercial user’s need, while securing jobs and providing economic value for communities.”

The new federal $4-billion Infrastructure Stimulus Fund provides funding to provincial, territorial and municipal construction-ready infrastructure rehabilitation projects that will be built during this year’s and next year’s construction seasons. Federal funding is conditional on the projects meeting all federal program and environmental requirements and the signing of a contribution agreement.

To date, 210 infrastructure projects in British Columbia will receive a joint federal-provincial investment of $370 million under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.

For more information on the Economic Action Plan, please visit: This link will lead you outside the Building Canada website. www.actionplan.gc.ca.

List of Projects:

1. Richmond Properties – No. 8/Blundell Traffic Signal and Rail Crossing Improvements Project
2. Fraser Richmond-North Access Road Services Extension Project
3. Lynn Creek Rail Bridge Addition – Port Metro Vancouver, North Vancouver, North Shore Trade Area
4. South Shore Roadway Upgrade – McGill Overpass
5. North shore – Lynnterm Seismic Upgrade
6. Richmond Logistics Hub – Offsite Waterloop Feeder Loop Project
7. Salter Street Access Road
8. South Shore Water and Sewer Improvements
9. Centerm Shed 1 Seismic Upgrade
10. Port Metro Vancouver Fusion Centre
11. North Arm Marine Facilities Capital Improvements
12. North shore – Access road to Vancouver Drydock
13. Richmond Office Seismic Upgrade
14. Annacis Island Parkway Pavement Renewal

SURREY, BRITISH COLUMBIA, August 24, 2009—Ms. Alice Wong, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, was pleased to present a $2,000 Apprenticeship Completion Grant cheque to two apprentices who were among the first in British Columbia to qualify for the grant by successfully completing apprenticeship training and receiving journeyperson certification in a designated Red Seal trade.

“Our government’s Apprenticeship Completion Grant is helping Canadians become tradespeople and ensuring that we have the skilled and mobile workforce our country needs to meet the demands of our changing labour market,” said Ms. Wong. “Our government is committed to providing Canadians with the skills they need for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”

The Government of Canada supports training, and provides grants and tax credits to encourage Canadians to pursue challenging, rewarding careers in the skilled trades. The Apprenticeship Completion Grant builds on the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant by offering an additional $2,000 to eligible apprentices after they successfully complete their apprenticeship training and receive their journeyperson certification in a designated Red Seal trade on or after January 1, 2009.

Under the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant, apprentices are eligible for a $1,000 cash grant when they complete the first and/or second level of their apprenticeship program in a designated Red Seal trade, to a maximum of $2,000. Combined, the two grants provide eligible apprentices who complete their training and become certified journeypersons in a designated Red Seal trade with a total of $4,000.

The Government of Canada is investing $40 million per year in the Apprenticeship Completion Grant. This program will not only encourage people to complete their apprenticeship training and become certified journeypersons, but will also enhance their ability to work anywhere in Canada by supporting the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program and enable them to take advantage of opportunities for themselves, their families and their futures.

Approximately 20,000 apprentices are estimated to benefit from the Apprenticeship Completion Grant each year upon certification in a designated Red Seal trade. The Red Seal Program represents a national standard of excellence in the trades and provides recognition of tradespeople’s qualifications. The Program facilitates the mobility of trades workers and is recognized by employers throughout Canada.

The Government of Canada encourages all eligible apprentices to apply for the grants. For more information on how to apply, call 1-866-742-3644 (TTY: 1‑866‑909‑9757) or visit servicecanada.gc.ca/apprenticeship.

To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

RICHMOND – A $1.215-million investment by the provincial and federal governments will expand the library at Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Richmond campus to reflect their university status.

Alice Wong, MP for Richmond and Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, along with John Yap, MLA for Richmond-Steveston, Rob Howard, MLA for Richmond Centre, and Linda Reid, MLA for Richmond East, made the announcement today.

“The Canadian government’s economic action plan is continuing to work for Richmond,” said Wong. “I’m proud of the work we are doing in partnership with the B.C. government to fund projects that will both benefit students and get people working.”

“I’m very pleased we are able to make such a significant investment in the library at the Richmond campus,” said Yap. “The province’s funding of more than $650,000, along with the federal government’s contribution, will support faculty and student research consistent with Kwantlen’s new university mandate.”

This is one of 11 projects at public post-secondary institutions across the province that will break ground quickly thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of $64.3 million. This project is also part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program supported by the Province to create jobs and vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C. Provincial funding for the library expansion is $656,000 and federal funding is $559,000.

“Ensuring that Kwantlen has the facilities needed to provide the best possible learning experience for students is a top priority for us,” said Howard. “This library expansion will help Kwantlen more fully meet both student and faculty needs for years to come.”

This investment is part of the federal government’s two-year, $2-billion plan to repair and expand research and educational facilities at Canadian post-secondary institutions. The Knowledge Infrastructure Program is helping to provide economic stimulus and promote employment by creating jobs for engineers, architects, tradespeople and technicians. In B.C., the federal government is providing up to 50 per cent of the cost of selected projects on a cost-share basis with the Province.

“This infrastructure funding is a double win,” said Reid. “Not only are we enhancing the educational experience of our local students, we are also creating jobs at a time when every job counts.”

The renovation and expansion of the library at the Richmond campus will allow Kwantlen to meet the increased requirements that come with being granted university status.

Improvements to the building will allow an increase in the number of reading and research materials that can be housed on campus and will improve the learning environment for students.

“Partnering with the federal government allows us to invest in campuses all over B.C. to give students the best possible learning experience,” said Stilwell. “By renovating and renewing buildings and campuses, we’re creating jobs that will boost the region’s economy now, and for the future.”

“We are exceedingly pleased to learn that Kwantlen Polytechnic University will receive infrastructure support, which will be used to enhance the student learning experience at Kwantlen,” said David Atkinson, president and vice-chancellor.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan sets out to stimulate the Canadian economy over the next two years and to improve our long-term competitiveness through $12 billion in new infrastructure investment, which includes the $2-billion Knowledge Infrastructure Program.

For more information on the provincial government’s three-year job creation plan, visit www.gov.bc.ca/infrastructure. For more information about the Knowledge Infrastructure Program visit www.ic.gc.ca/knowledge-infrastructure.

Vancouver, July, 13, 2009 — On behalf of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney, Dr. Alice Wong, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, attended a special citizenship ceremony today. The ceremony was held in partnership with the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Federal Secretariat, Canadian Heritage and the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC).

A total of 32 new Canadians from 13 different countries took the oath of citizenship at today’s ceremony.

The ceremony, held at VANOC’s headquarters, celebrated the many attributes Canada will showcase during the 2010 Winter Games, including diversity, inclusiveness, perseverance and national pride.

“Each year, Canada welcomes more than 200,000 people from around the world,” said Dr. Wong. “Every time Canada welcomes a new citizen, another page of our country’s story is written. Just as Canada’s athletes will make their mark in 2010, the individuals celebrated here today will become part of Canada’s vibrant history and culture.”

The Government of Canada is working closely with VANOC to make the 2010 Winter Games Canada’s Games, engaging citizens from all walks of life, from coast to coast to coast.

“The 2010 Winter Games will be an incredible opportunity to celebrate the talents of our Canadian athletes and showcase our unique culture and diversity, as well as what it means to be Canadian,” said the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport). “Today’s event reminds us that whether we’re talking about Olympic and Paralympic athletes or everyday citizens, our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.”

Chief Executive Officer of VANOC, John Furlong, who immigrated to Canada from Ireland more than 30 years ago, was a guest speaker at today’s ceremony.

“The moment I arrived in Canada, I fell in love with a country that was welcoming and diverse and rooted in unique values,” said Mr. Furlong. “At Vancouver 2010, we have taken those values to heart in our goal of making these Canada’s Games — ensuring that every citizen is filled with great pride as we welcome the world to Vancouver in 2010. As a proud Canadian, I am honoured to be part of a project that will help bring our country together and demonstrate our strength in and passion for sport.”

The Government of Canada is a major and committed partner in delivering successful Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. Hosting the 2010 Winter Games is a unique opportunity for Canada to showcase its accomplishments and innovations to the world, while realizing sustainable environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits across the country and for all Canadians.

For more information, visit www.Canada2010.gc.ca.

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, June 12, 2009—Vancouver youth will benefit from the Government of Canada’s support of a local employment project. Ms. Alice Wong, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Richmond, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“In today’s environment, it is more important than ever that youth develop the skills needed to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Ms. Wong. “Through this project, and others like it, we are helping young Canadians facing employment barriers gain the skills, knowledge and work experience they need to reach their full potential.”

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. will receive $371,006 in federal Skills Link funding to support its Youth Employment Program. This program will help a minimum of 28 youth, all of whom face a number of barriers to employment, prepare for jobs or return to school.

“We work with many young people through a variety of programs, and many of these clients have lived in conditions that few of us can even imagine,” said Mr. Tung Chan, Chief Executive Officer of S.U.C.C.E.S.S. “While we cannot change their past, we can certainly show them the way to a brighter future. This funding will allow us to help young people overcome specific barriers, and empower them to make quantum changes in order to integrate into the community.”

The federal government is working with the provinces and territories, community organizations and other stakeholders to provide Canadians with the training, skills and opportunities they need to participate in the workforce and contribute to their communities.

Skills Link is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world. The Government underscored its commitment to this strategy in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. A key component of the Plan is to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers through skills development. To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

The Skills Link program is delivered by Service Canada, which provides one-stop personalized services for Government of Canada programs, services and benefits. For more information about this program, call 1‑800-O-Canada, visit servicecanada.gc.ca or drop by your local Service Canada Centre.

RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA, June 6, 2009—Local employers will have the opportunity to connect with young Canadians looking for jobs at the U-Connect employment fair thanks in part to support from the Government of Canada.

Ms. Alice Wong, Parliamentary Secretary for Mulitculturalism and Member of Parliament for Richmond, made the announcement at the official opening today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“In today’s environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills and information they need to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Ms. Wong. “Our government is proud to support projects like U-Connect that bring together employers and youth to the benefit of both groups.”

The Richmond Youth Service Agency received $18,499 through the Government of Canada’s Youth Awareness program to host U-Connect. This career fair will increase opportunities for employers to connect with youth, and enable youth to realize their employment opportunities and to understand how they can prepare for and successfully transition to the workforce.

“Thanks to the continued support of the Government of Canada, we are able to reach out and connect youth to suitable employment opportunities and community resources,” said Mr. Marshall Thompson, Executive Director of the Richmond Youth Service Agency. “Our agency provides youth with help in finding work they love and ensures that they have the necessary support for life success. We are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada to create a strong young workforce.”

The Youth Awareness program is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world.

The Government underscored its commitment to create a strong workforce in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. A key component of the Plan is to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers through skills development. To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

The Youth Awareness program is delivered by Service Canada, which provides one stop personalized services for Government of Canada programs, services and benefits. For more information about this program, call 1 800-O-Canada, go on the Internet at servicecanada.gc.ca or visit your local Service Canada Centre.

Backgrounder

Since 1974, the Richmond Youth Service Agency has provided programs and services that respond to the diverse needs of children and youth in the Richmond area. Programs offered include a career and employment resource centre for youth, counseling, volunteer and leadership opportunities, and health and recreation services. Between April 6, 2009, and July 17, 2009, the organization will deliver a Youth Awareness project that includes developing, staging and evaluating the U Connect career fair for youth in the Richmond area. This career fair will assist youth in finding employment and help employers meet their current and future human resources needs.

The federal Youth Awareness program, funded under Employment Insurance Part II, targets projects that respond to specific labour market requirements and adjustments over time, and aims to promote youth as the workforce of the future among recipients, employers, communities and young Canadians.