Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Allan Campbell today announced a new rural jobs initiative to strengthen employment and economic development in rural communities. A total of $1.25 million will be provided annually over the next three years to assist businesses and organizations to hire additional employees.
“Strengthening the capacity of our rural communities to grow and develop is one of the major priorities of this government,” said Mr. Campbell in a statement to the legislature announcing the jobs initiative. “This new initiative reflects the commitment of this government to support and stimulate rural economic development, provide real and practical assistance to rural businesses and enable workers in rural communities to improve their employment opportunities.”
The rural jobs initiative is aimed at the creation of jobs in support of innovation, technological adaptation and sustainable diversification. It will assist workers to make the transition from industries that are downsizing. It will also target those industries that are being impacted by the loss of skilled trades people.
Businesses involved in the processing of natural products, such as agriculture, seafood and forest products, and those involved in sectors such as energy, aerospace, biosciences, information technology, tourism, crafts and construction and other trades will be eligible for a wage subsidy. The initiative will also assist non-governmental organizations that focus on rural economic development and rural resources to strengthen their operations.
Businesses and non-governmental organizations located outside of the greater Charlottetown and Summerside areas are eligible to apply to the initiative. Program guidelines and application forms can be obtained from community development officers at Access PEI centres or by contacting the Community Development Bureau at 368-6330.
“Rural communities are facing major changes and challenges,” said Mr. Campbell. “They need to be able to better adapt to the realities of a changing economy.”