About 800 youth jobs will be created through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Youth Employment and Skills program in the coming year, announced Federal Ag Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau Thursday. That's 100 more postings than initially anticipated when the federal government announced additional funding of $9.2 million in May to help the ag industry attract Canadian youth, ages 15 to 30, to their organizations to help with labour shortages brought on by the pandemic.
"Our food producers are working hard to feed Canada, and labour shortages brought on by the pandemic have had an impact. The applications received for this program demonstrate that youth are eager to take advantage of the many employment opportunities available in the agriculture and agri-food sector and to gain valuable work experience. I am pleased to see so many young Canadians interested in challenging and meaningful careers in one of our country's most dynamic and resilient sectors," said Bibeau in a news release.
According to the federal government, this program provides youth from across the country, and particularly youth facing barriers to employment, with job experience in agriculture that will provide career-related work experience.
"An investment in our youth is an investment in Canada's future. This program provides young people with the skills and experience they need to build fulfilling careers and prepare for the future," added Bardish Chagger, Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth. Eligible applicants included producers, agri-businesses, industry associations, provincial and territorial governments, indigenous organizations and research facilities.
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