April 8, 1999
(Executive Council)

Contract awarded to Women in Resource Development Committee

Julie Bettney, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, announced today that the Women in Resource Development Committee has been awarded the contract to conduct the community development component of the Equity Fund.

In November 1998, the minister announced an Equity Fund to increase the participation of women in the offshore petroleum industry. There are two components of the Equity Fund. The first component is a grants program which provides grants of up to $3,000 for women who have been accepted for a training program in a petroleum-related trades or technology occupation.

The second component, a community development program will be delivered by Women in Resource Development.

"I am pleased to award this contract to the Women in Resource Development Committee, for their project, Breaking Down the Barriers," said Minister Bettney. "This organization, formed in 1996 to promote involvement of women in resource development projects is well positioned to raise awareness among women, employers, unions and the public about the need to increase the number of women participating in petroleum related occupations."

Brenda Grzetic, co-chair of the Women in Resource Development Committee indicated: "This community-based program will focus on community outreach and educational activities to raise awareness among women about petroleum related occupations and support women as they explore these occupations. The Women in Resource Development Committee will also develop strategies with employers, unions and training institutions to help with the recruitment and retention of women in the industry."

The Women in Resource Development Committee will receive $130,000 to deliver this community development project throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Funds for this project comes from the Offshore Skills Training Fund, through the Canada-Newfoundland Offshore Development Fund.

For more information contact:

Donna Meade
Women's Policy Office
(709) 729-5730

Brenda Grzetic
Women in Resource Development Committee
(709) 753-7314

1999 04 08                      12:10 p.m.