Strong women mean a strong Canada: Guergis

HALIFAX, Feb. 18 /CNW Telbec/ - The Government of Canada is supporting two new projects that will help improve the lives of more women and girls in Nova Scotia, the Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women), announced today.

"A healthy economy remains our government's top priority," Minister of State Guergis said. "All Canadians benefit when women are economically secure, physically safe and showing leadership across the country. These investments will help more women and girls in Nova Scotia to reach their full potential."

The funding, totaling $611,085, is being allocated as follows:

    
      -  $431,085 to the The Hypatia Association for its project, Tools for
         the Trade: Promoting Economic Security for Women in Cape Breton; and
      -  $180,000 to the Fédération des femmes acadiennes de la Nouvelle-
         Écosse for its project, La violence, ça suffit! (Enough violence!).
    

Support for today's announcement comes from funding the Government of Canada allocated to the Women's Community Fund of Status of Women Canada. To qualify for funding, each project must work to promote the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.

"Women continue to be under-represented in non-traditional trades and technology on Cape Breton Island. In fact, across Nova Scotia, the participation rate of women in trade occupations is a disappointing five per cent, but in Cape Breton it is only 3.5 per cent.," said Ms. Susan Church, Chair of The Hypatia Association. "Women can help local employers fill the shortages of skilled workers. Our 36-month project will help to create inclusive and respectful workplaces for women in non-traditional trades and technology occupations."

"Nova Scotia's Acadian and francophone women live in mostly rural, isolated areas, and have limited access to transportation. When they face violence, services and resources in French are almost non-existent," said Ms. Jacqueline Bullen-Samson, President of the Fédération des femmes acadiennes de la Nouvelle-Écosse. "Our 36-month project will inform, raise awareness among and empower some 800 francophone women across rural Nova Scotia so they can deal with violence and change their lives for the better."

"Over the past year, our Government has listened to the concerns of groups and individuals across the country," said Minister of State Guergis. "As a result of these consultations, we have delivered funding for a national shelter network, supported the introduction of a bill to address human trafficking and helped to support community programs."

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For news releases and information on Status of Women Canada, go to www.swc-cfc.gc.ca.

For further information: Emily Goucher, Senior Special Assistant, Communications, Office of the Minister of State (Status of Women), [phone]; Nanci-Jean Waugh, Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning, Status of Women Canada, [phone]