Mr. Blaney, we understand that there is a challenge, and my department is looking at that very closely. Minister Duclos will be happy to answer questions at a later date, but certainly the deputy is aware of the issue and is working on it right now with the department and will have more to say at a later date.
In terms of youth unemployment, the youth unemployment rate has remained somewhat stagnant. In 2015, it was 10%, which is lower than its historical average of 12.1% since 1976. Although that's quite high, and I would agree with the member that we want to see that rate lowered, certainly internationally we're doing all right compared to some of our international partners. For example, the long-term unemployment rate we have is 5.1% versus 21.8%, which is the OECD average.
That is not to diminish our concern, which is why we're here and why we're looking at rejuvenating the youth employment strategy, but I would say we're definitely tracking in the right direction. I think there's more to do.
In terms of Canada Summer Jobs, it's an incredible program. It provides young people all across Canada an opportunity to get work experience, in some cases for the very first time in their lives. That's a paid work experience opportunity. Employers as well oftentimes would not have an opportunity to hire a young person if it were not for Canada Summer Jobs. We're very proud of that program.