Harper Government helps local businesses and employees affected by floods through Work-Sharing

HIGH RIVER, AB, July 7, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Ted Menzies, Member of Parliament for Macleod and Minister of State (Finance), on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, announced that the Harper Government has approved the use of special measures under the Work-Sharing program to assist employers and workers temporarily affected by the flooding in Alberta and Manitoba. Over 1 700 workers at Cargill Limited will benefit from Work-Sharing as the company restarts operations following the unprecedented floods.

"Our Government remains committed to supporting hardworking Canadians and businesses alike," said Minister Menzies. "By easing access to the Work-Sharing program, we are helping avoid unnecessary layoffs and additional hardship for people already impacted by this catastrophe."

Work-Sharing is designed to help companies facing a temporary downturn in business avoid layoffs by offering Employment Insurance Part I income support to workers willing to work a reduced work week while their company recovers.

Employers like Cargill Limited that are located in communities where a state of emergency has been declared and that are experiencing a temporary shortage of work due to the flooding may benefit from these measures, which involve waiving certain program criteria to enter into an agreement. Eligible employers in affected areas have until September 27, 2013, to apply for an agreement involving these special measures.

For more information, please contact your local Service Canada Centre. Further information on Work-Sharing can be found at www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/work_sharing/index.shtml.

SOURCE: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

This news release is available in alternative formats on request.

For further information (media only):
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559

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