Government�s Job Creation Initiative assists approximately 1,500 families

Oliver Langdon, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, is pleased that government�s Job Creation Initiative has been successful in assisting some 1,500 individuals in securing the employment hours needed to provide stability through the winter.

"While the unemployment rate is at its lowest since 1989, and labour force participation continues to grow, there are still areas of the province which continue to be challenged by factors beyond their control," said Minister Langdon. "The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognized the need to provide this employment opportunity to motivated individuals who have been making efforts to support their families but who have not been able to secure sufficient employment this year."

"The program has been successful in targeting areas of the province where significant numbers of people have not been able to secure sufficient employment to support their families, and has created approximately 14,000 person work weeks through an investment of $4.5 million."

Of the approved projects, brush cutting was a priority, with the remainder of projects including recreation, repairs and renovations to community buildings and infrastructure, and other community related initiatives.

Media contact: Lynn Hammond, Communications, 729-1983

2002 12 23                                        4:00 p.m.