Choices for Youth Cuts Expose Trudeau-Furey Liberal Leadership Failure: Wakeham

August 21, 2024, St. John’s, N.L.

PC Official Opposition Leader Tony Wakeham (MHA, Stephenville—Port au Port) expressed his deep concern and disappointment today over the Trudeau Liberals severe cuts to Choices for Youth's operational funding. An organization that is crucial for delivering essential support services—such as housing, employment programs, and social enterprises—that help vulnerable and at-risk young people attain stability and success.

Wakeham is responding to media reports indicating that Choices for Youth is facing a $16 million shortfall. This shortfall has resulted in the layoff of 16 full-time staff, 15 youth trainees from social enterprises, and significant reductions in programs and services, including housing support for 70 youth, training and educational support for 35 youth, and supportive services for 25 young moms and 40 children.

"We are in the midst of a housing crisis, and many of the 200 young people on the waitlist for housing have nowhere else to turn," said Wakeham. "Young people will also lose meaningful employment opportunities. With all the challenges facing vulnerable and at-risk youth, this is a major step backward. It's simply unbelievable."

Wakeham also highlighted the earlier cuts to the Labour Market Development Agreements, where the Furey Liberals were caught unprepared as the federal government slashed $16.8 million, impacting hundreds of individuals and businesses that relied on supportive employment programs.

"Over the years, we've seen many photo ops from the Trudeau-Furey Liberals celebrating the work of Choices for Youth," added Wakeham. "Sadly, now these celebrations appear to have been empty promises. While the Furey Liberals allocate tens of millions to the former Airport Inn, which sits mostly empty, Choices for Youth is forced to lay off staff and cancel vital programs. This clearly shows the out-of-touch and misplaced priorities of the Trudeau-Furey Liberals."