Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 10th anniversary of International Year of the Youth.
We are in the midst of dramatic change. Statistics show us that 45 per cent of all new jobs created between 1990 and the year 2000 will require more than 16 years of training and education. Never before have education and training played such a vital role in the future of our youth.
In order to face this challenge head on, the government introduced the youth employment and learning strategy. This strategy is the cumulative result of many years of consultation, policy development and town hall meetings with Canadians from coast to coast to cast.
Key elements of this strategy include youth service Canada and youth internship program. Youth service Canada gives young people an opportunity to develop skills and confidence while serving their community. The youth internship program provides a combination of on the job and in class training.
To date these programs have given over 30,000 young Canadians a head start on their career path. This Liberal government recognizes that our youth is a very important resource and as such should be treated as a top priority. That is why this year during a time of fiscal restraint, the overall budget for youth employment services was increased by-