Canada World Youth Is Concerned about the Impact of the Amalgamation of CIDA and DFAIT on Canada's Poverty Alleviation and Humanitarian Support Strategy
MONTREAL, March 22, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Minister Flaherty announced, on March 21st, the amalgamation of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT).
Canada World Youth has enjoyed a strong working relationship with CIDA over the past 40 years and looks forward to build upon this partnership with the new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development to be able to effectively work towards its mission of increasing the ability of people, especially youth, to participate actively in the development of just, harmonious, and sustainable societies. We will continue to promote our expertise and the impact of our development work to Ministers Baird and Fantino and we welcome this opportunity for future collaboration.
Canada World Youth is concerned however with the $319M cut to CIDA's budget that was announced as part of the federal government's Economic Action Plan 2013, as well as with the further delay that the amalgamation will engender on the competitive call for proposals which was due to be issued by CIDA in Winter 2013. These measures will have a serious impact on the work of Canada's non-governmental organizations who contribute to the development of communities in Canada and overseas.
In the immediate term, Canada World Youth pursues its commitment to actively engage youth in community-driven development initiatives in both Canada and our international partner countries. Our programs offer youth unique opportunities to gain the leadership and professional skills needed to contribute to strong civil societies and economic prosperity. With that, Canada World Youth welcomes Minister Flaherty's investment in skills training for Canadian youth.
About Canada World Youth
Canada World Youth offers world-renowned international volunteer programs to youth from Canada and abroad who, through their participation in community-driven development projects, acquire leadership skills that allow them to become agents of change. Since 1971, more than 35,000 youth have become better informed and active global citizens through Canada World Youth programs.
Canada World Youth is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency as a charitable organization (#118973999RR0001).
SOURCE: CANADA WORLD YOUTH
and Interviews:
Marie-Noël Ouellet
514-608-8360
[email protected]
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