CANADA’S GOVERNMENT IS LOOKING OUT FOR MANITOBA WORKERS

February 03, 2009

(February 03, 2009) Ottawa –Canada’s Economic Action Plan is protecting Manitoba workers from challenging economic times by enhancing Employment Insurance benefits and the availability of training, says Charleswood-St. James-Assiniboia Member of Parliament, Honourable Steven Fletcher.

“Budget 2009 extends Employment Insurance benefits and the availability of training programs for Manitobans,” said Fletcher. “Our Government is providing the support and tools to ensure the success of workers during these tough economic times.”

The Action Plan will deliver $8.3 billion for the Canadian Skills and Transition Strategy to support Manitobans who have lost their jobs. The Strategy will enhance Employment Insurance and provide funding for skills and training development to help Manitobans get better jobs. At the same time, Canada will have the flexible and knowledgeable workforce needed to give us a competitive edge in the global economy.

Over the next two years, all regular Employment Insurance benefits will be extended by five extra weeks and the maximum benefit duration will be increased from 45 to 50 weeks. As well, Canada’s government will provide $500 million to expand Employment Insurance income benefits to cover Canadians participating in longer-term training.

For more information on these benefits, please visit: http://www.budget.gc.ca/2009/