GREEN TEAM PROGRAM READY FOR APPLICANTS

Employers and students are invited to apply for the Green Team summer student employment program.

"Youth are important to building a green and prosperous economy and this new initiative is an opportunity for students to gain valuable work experience and training in the environmental sector," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joan Beatty said. "Employers who hire a Green Team student in an environmental job will receive a subsidy to cover part of the student's wage."

Grants of either $1,000 for employers hiring high school students or $2,500 to hire students continuing their post-secondary education are available for environmental jobs.

"Getting more young people involved in the environment now is a good investment in the future of our province," Environment Minister David Forbes said. "Our hope is that many of these students will begin or continue studies in environmental issues and that the province will benefit from their expertise when they graduate."

The program has earmarked $200,000 in funding for 2004-05 and targets students at least 16 years old who are interested in environmental management and energy conservation, and who will be returning to an educational institution this fall.

The program is being administered by an industry partner, the Saskatchewan Environmental Industry and Managers Association (SEIMA). To join the Green Team program, employers and students can contact SEIMA at 1-306-975-0944 or visit the website at www.greenteam.gov.sk.ca

Employers will be considered for funding if the job proposed would provide a good development opportunity for a student and it is related to environmental activities or environmental studies.

Employers with environmental projects can apply. It is not necessary that employers are an environmental firm.

Adjudicators will be selecting proposals that provide the best development experience for a student. After adjudication, SEIMA will deliver funding to employers who have been allocated Green Team funding.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4967

Lorna Shaw-Lennox SEIMA Regina Phone: (306) 975-0944