Job growth rates greatly contribute to the support of a prosperous economy, and thus a prosperous country. That is why one of the main focuses of our Conservative government has been job creation. Education and training are huge factors in maintaining beneficial job growth rates. Since 2006, we have introduced numerous measures to help Canadians get the skills and training they need to succeed.

INVESTING IN EDUCATION

More specifically, we have introduced measures that are helping Canadians gain improved access to post-secondary education and the training they require for high-quality jobs.

• In 2012, we eliminated interest on new and existing loans for part-time students during their studies, making education more affordable and on average, saving part-time students nearly $350 annually.
• We enhanced and expanded eligibility for Canada Student Loans and Grants for part-time and full-time post-secondary students with an investment of over $34 million a year once fully implemented.
• We provided up to $10 million a year in tax relief and Registered Education Savings Plan assistance to the increasing number of Canadian post-secondary students who study abroad.

For more information on what financial advice and support the government has to offer, go to the Student Financial Assistance web page.

Although Canada boasts high levels of post-secondary achievements, too many graduates are unemployed or underemployed. That is why our Government has also taken steps to promote education in fields where there is high demand from employers, so that Canadians can meet the realities of the job market.

SKILLED TRADES
The skilled trades, in particular, are in high-demand across the country. Recognizing the importance of apprentices and skilled tradespeople to Canada’s economy, our Government has made significant investments in apprentices and the employers that hire them.

• In 2013, we increased opportunities for apprentices by working with provinces and territories to examine the use of practical tests as a method of assessment and harmonized requirements.
• In 2013, we reallocated $4 million over three years to work with provinces and territories to increase opportunities for apprentices.
• We made occupational, trade and professional examination fees eligible for the Tuition Tax Credit.
• We introduced measures to support the use of apprentices through federal construction and maintenance contracts, investments in affordable housing, and infrastructure projects receiving federal funding.

You can find application information regarding the apprenticeship programs HERE.
CANADA JOBS GRANT
The Conservative Government’s support for jobs and education has also resulted in the Canada Jobs Grant. The program will provide employers with up to $10,000 for training costs such as tuition and training materials for an individual worker. Back in March, the Canada-Ontario Job Fund Agreement agreement was signed, under which the Canada Jobs Grant for Ontario was launched. Ontario businesses will have more flexibility in targeting the skills and training they need which in turn will provide better jobs for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and all of Canada.