Blissett Says Education and Training are Keys to Jobs and the Economy

Blissett talking with College students

Kootenay East NDP candidate Norma Blissett says education and skills training are at the heart of the BC NDP’s new approach to jobs and the economy.

“An NDP government will invest $40 million in skills training and $100 million in a student grants program annually,” said Blissett.  “That way, we can grow the economy, create jobs and reduce inequality.”

The $40 million investment in BC’s skills training and apprenticeship system will increase training spaces, shorten completion times and improve completion rates, according to Blissett.  The NDP plans to include business and labour as full partners in BC’s apprenticeship system.

“The $100 million needs-based, non-repayable grant program will make college and university more affordable for students,” said Blissett.  “A New Democrat government would also make a one-time investment of $20 million in a scholarship fund which they will invite private sector and community-based partners to match.”

The education and training program will cost $87 million in 2013-14, $172 million in 2014-15 and $226 million in 2015-16. Consistent with Adrian Dix’s commitment to maintain tax competitiveness and show clearly how the NDP will pay for its commitments, this announcement has been fully costed in the BC NDP’s fiscal plan.

For more information, contact Norma Blissett:  250-489-3408.

The NDP fiscal plan can be found by scrolling down at:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2013/04/11/bc-ndp-platform-costs.html