The following statement was issued today by Premier Danny Williams. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise today to inform this honourable house, and young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, about the Council of the Federation Youth Internship Program.

This internship is aimed at encouraging Canadian youth to become actively involved in public policy development, public service, government and political life.

The Youth Internship Program is a paid internship for a period of 12 months and will be located in the nation�s capital, Ottawa. Applicants must be 25 years of age or younger, graduated from either an undergraduate or graduate program from a recognized university, and legally able to work in Canada. They must also demonstrate an interest in Canadian politics, federalism and be able to communicate in both official languages.

The Council of the Federation was formed in December of 2003 and many strong initiatives for our country�s youth have been developed. Last June young people from our province participated in the Youth Forum which took place at Niagara-on-the-Lake.

I believe this internship will provide an invaluable experience for youth of Newfoundland and Labrador. To work in the heart of the Canadian federation is a great opportunity, and I strongly encourage young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to apply.

All of us in this House of Assembly realize what a tremendous privilege it is to serve your fellow citizens. The Council of the Federation Youth Internship Program is a positive initiative to allow our future leaders an early opportunity to experience this privilege.

The application deadline for the internship is Friday, May 20, 2005. Further information and application forms can be viewed at the Council of the Federation Secretariat�s Web site www.councilofthefederation.ca.

2005 04 28                                    2:35 p.m.