Budget takes welcome steps to support most vulnerable Ontarians

TORONTO, May 2, 2013 /CNW/ - With today's budget, the Wynne government has taken welcome steps to support those Ontarians who are most vulnerable, according to the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO).

"With many Ontarians still reeling from the province's 2012 austerity budget, the provincial government has taken small but encouraging steps to assist the province's most vulnerable people," said ETFO President Sam Hammond.

Hammond specifically cited the new jobs strategy targeting the province's 50% youth unemployment rate, additional funding to support adults with developmental disabilities, steps to assist those on social assistance, and housing and other supports for First Nations' people as positive examples.

"These initiatives remind everyone that government budgets are about making life better for people, as opposed to pushing austerity agendas that many economists agree have created hardship rather than new jobs or growth."

"Along with employment initiatives, funding to support expansion of summer learning programs for students in low income communities, and funds to improve Aboriginal student achievement, are welcome investments in our youth," added Hammond.

The Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario represents 76,000 elementary public school teachers and education professionals across the province and is the largest teacher federation in Canada.

SOURCE: Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario

Valerie Dugale, ETFO Media Relations, Cell: 416-948-0195