Green Party Announces Job Creation Plan

(OTTAWA) – Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (Saanich - Gulf Islands), unveiled the Green Party’s plan to create long-term, well-paying, and sustainable jobs for Canadians.

“We need to kick-start our economy to get out of the recession. Job creation in fighting climate change, modernizing our crumbling infrastructure and investing in those sectors that benefit from the low dollar can do it. Under the Conservatives, innovation and productivity have declined,” said Ms. May. “We need to build up the sectors of Canada’s economy, including manufacturing, tourism, value-added forest products, and cultural industries to create a long-term sustainable future for our children and grandchildren.”

To create sustainable jobs and boost Canada’s economy, the Green Party will:

●      Create a National Sustainable Jobs Plan, including a $6.4 billion annual investment in infrastructure, and unleashing an army of carpenters, electricians, and contractors to improve building energy efficiency;

●      Work with Canada’s renewable energy sector to accelerate the construction of green infrastructure, ensuring a majority of Canada’s energy needs come from renewable sources by 2025;

●      Boost access to apprentice programs in key trades, including: electricity, plumbing, carpentry, pipefitting, and welding; and

●      Create an annual $1 billion Green Technology Commercialization Grant and require all federal legislation to consider its impacts on small businesses.

“The growth of Victoria's tech sector is a great example of how the combination of creative talent and entrepreneurial spirit can be an effective economic driver,” added Jo-Ann Roberts, Green Party candidate (Victoria). “The Green Party's proposed Green Technology Commercialization Grants will contribute to a cleaner economy and environment and provide jobs close to home that keep incomes and profits in our community.”

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca

Or

Kirsten Strom
Executive Assistant to Director of Communications
t: 613.562.4916 (200)
Toll Free 1.866.868.3447
kirsten.strom@greenparty.ca