In fact, youth employment funding, in terms of federal funding, has completely stopped in the HRM as of October 2005. Not one youth program since October 2005 has been funded by Service Canada, and we're concerned about these transition youth, because they have very little experience, and frankly, they are unattached.
Also, employers state lack of work experience as the number one barrier to employment. How do we provide that individual with work experience if we simply don't have the resources? We know that you will agree that successful employment programs require funding and policy that recognizes that persons with disabilities may vary in their timelines and the supports required to achieve employment outcomes. People don't come with instructions.
Also, we understand that specialized support, combined with business partnerships, will obviously improve representation for persons with disabilities. We believe in a true P3 partnership combining the expertise of the public, non-profit, and private sectors to create innovative and successful employment initiatives.
With all this in mind, we do have some specific recommendations.