Harper Government Supports Leadership Project for Young Women in the Gaspé Region of Quebec

GASPÉ, QC, Dec. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities, and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, on behalf of the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, today announced Government of Canada support for a project that will help build leadership skills among young Anglophone and First Nations women in the Gaspé region of Quebec.

"All Canadians benefit when women and girls of all backgrounds are empowered and equipped to take on leadership roles, said Minister Leitch. "That is why we are supporting these projects - because our Government is committed to supporting the full participation of women in the social, economic, and democratic life of Canada."

"Our Government recognizes and believes in the tremendous leadership potential of girls and young women in our communities," said Minster Lebel. "We are very pleased to support this project which will empower young women in the Gaspé to be leaders."

The Committee for Anglophone Social Action is receiving $74,215 from the Government of Canada for a project to increase leadership opportunities for Anglophone and First Nations girls and young women in the Quebec communities of New Richmond, Bonaventure, New Carlisle, Chandler, and Gaspé. Various activities, including a series of workshops, will be carried out in participating schools to enhance participants' leadership skills.

"If we want girls and young women to succeed in the future, we must empower them today," said Ms. Cathy Brown, Executive Director, Committee for Anglophone Social Action. "An important way to combat gender-based violence, poverty, unemployment and drop-out rates among Anglophone and First Nations girls and young women is to help them gain confidence, knowledge and leadership skills, then give them a chance to use those skills to make a difference, right here at home."

The Harper Government is committed to supporting projects that yield concrete results for women and girls while strengthening families, communities and the country. More than $5.9 million has been approved under a call for proposals for projects that promote leadership and prosperity among girls and young women. Through Status of Women Canada, federal government support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2007, supporting more than 600 projects across the country.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada

For media inquiries only:

Barbara Mottram
Director of Communications
Office of the Hon. Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, P.C.,
O. Ont., M.P.
Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women
Tel: [phone]

For all other inquiries, contact:

Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General, Communications and Public Affairs
Status of Women Canada
Tel: [phone]

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