Youth Hard Hit By Recession

OTTAWA , Oct. 6 /CNW Telbec/ - Young workers face the toughest job market in their lifetimes, according to a report released by the Community Foundations of Canada . The report finds that youth - including students - have been hit harder by the recession than any other age group.

"The hardships facing youth and students are the untold story of the recession," said Katherine Giroux-Bougard, National Chairperson of the Canadian Federation of Students. "More students than ever before are depending on a job to get them through the year."

July and August saw the highest levels of student unemployment on record. Those that did find work received fewer hours and earned less. A recent Ipsos Reid poll found that over half of college and university students are concerned they will run out of money by the end of the school year and that almost four in ten depend on work during the school year to pay the bills.

"Facing record high tuition fees, students are especially vulnerable during these hard economic times," added Giroux-Bougard. "All federal parties must commit to lowering student debt by reducing tuition fees and increasing funding for student financial aid."

Many students who were unable to find work this summer will be forced to borrow more, adding to already record high student debt. Tuition fees represent the single largest expense for most students, averaging almost $5,000 per year.

Founded in 1981, the Canadian Federation of Students is Canada's largest student organisation, uniting more that one-half million students in all ten provinces.

For further information: Katherine Giroux-Bougard, National Chairperson, [phone]