As we find ourselves in mid-winter, many of us dream of summer. For some, that means weekends at the cottage or barbecues with family. For many students, summer is a time to gain work experience and earn money for school.

With that in mind, I would like to personally invite local employers to apply for funding through the Canada Summer Jobs program to help create much-needed jobs for students this summer.

Employers can apply online at www.servicecanada.gc.ca/csj2012 or print an application from the website. They can also get an application by visiting any Service Canada Centre. Applications must be submitted between February 1 and February 29, 2012.

Our government’s top priority is job creation and economic growth. I encourage employers to take advantage of this remarkable program that benefits our community, our local economy and especially the students of Lambton-Kent-Middlesex.

Bev Shipley, M.P.

Lambton-Kent-Middlesex