Human Resources committee Thank you, Mr. Chair and members of the human resources standing committee. I'm pleased to have this opportunity to appear before you today. As noted, my name is Paul Thompson. I'm the associate assistant deputy minister for the skills and employment branch, Department of Human
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee I'm not in a position to comment on the policy choices that were made between different measures, but I would indicate that, as noted in my remarks, the estimated cost associated with the extension of the five weeks is $1.15 billion over two years. That would be the amount of sti
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee I think that you're referring to the initiative for the workers.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee The budget contains a funding increase for the Targeted Initiative for older workers.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee The current annual funding is $50 million. It used to be $30 million, but with the new investment, it's $50 million per year.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee Yes, that is right, $30 million annually.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee I would have to ask the financial director in order to get a sense of what level of spending occurred.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee The initiative was comprised of 90 projects, and the annual budget was $30 million. As I said, I will be able to get back to you with the current level of spending.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee The program was run according to each province's recommendations. The province's proposals were submitted.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee We will forward that information on to the committee.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee As indicated in the budget, the government has undertaken to invest $2.9 billion. The costs are due to additional employment insurance investments.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee The money is coming from the government's general revenue.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee It is not appropriate for me to talk about recommendations. The government's fiscal policy is a matter for the Department of Finance.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee The purpose of the measure to maintain the current premium level is to avoid an increase which may have an impact on the economy.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson
Human Resources committee And labour.
February 12th, 2009Committee meeting
Paul Thompson