Private sector and youth job losses shows Conservative economic plan isn’t working

As economy teeters on the brink of a recession, another disappointing jobs report underscores the need for change

Following four straight months of a shrinking economy, today’s Statistics Canada report showing the loss of tens of thousands of private sector jobs and a spike in youth unemployment adds to the mounting evidence of how Stephen Harper’s economic plan just isn’t working.

“Conservatives are standing by congratulating themselves as thousands more Canadians lose their jobs,” said NDP Finance Critic Nathan Cullen (Skeena – Bulkley Valley) “Too many Canadian families struggle to make ends meet and household debt is rising to record levels. With the private sector now shedding more jobs and our economy shrinking, it is clearly time for a change.”

The important summer months are providing no relief for youth employment as 26,000 young people lost their jobs in June, and 39,300 more gave up on finding a job at all. Meanwhile private sector employment dropped precipitously by another 26,300 jobs, another sign of weakening job numbers under the Conservative government.

“Stephen Harper has failed to build a balanced economy, failed to create and protect good jobs, and failed to foster growth. There are still 200,000 more unemployed Canadians than before the recession,” said Cullen “It’s far past time our government focused on building a stronger middle class with smart investments that will create jobs and grow our economy while helping families make ends meet.”