Election Day 10: Liberals plan to double youth employment fund

Liberal Leader Brian Gallant says if his government is re-elected, he will double the investment in theYouth Employment Fund from $10 million to $21.7 million per year over four years.

Gallant made the announcement during a campaign appearance in Oromocto withLiberal candidate John Fife.

The fund, created in 2015 allows young New Brunswickers to get job experience in their home province. A job placement is provided for 26 weeks along with funding to subsidize 100 per cent of the minimum wage for 30 hours a week.

After the placement is completed, the goal is the participant will get a permanent job in the province.

"Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and job placements, are such a crucial aspect of the education we offer our youth," said Gallant.

Wild turkey hunt

Meanwhile during a stop in Riverside Albert, Progressive Conservative Leader Blaine Higgsfocused on rural pursuits. In a news release, hepledged to "implement a science-basedwildlife management program for a wild turkey hunt."

He also said a PC government will consider bundling hunting and fishing licences together, and possibly offering seniors a discount on the fees for the licences, and he'll make changes to the moose hunting lottery.

"Hunting and fishing are cherished pastimes for many New Brunswickers," Higgs said."We want to make it easier for them to participate, and to create new ways for them to get out and enjoy our beautiful province."

Campaigning continues

Green Party leader David Coon spenthis day in the Kent North riding with local candidate Kevin Arseneau. The pair toured a small business in Saint-Charles before making a stop at the Upriver Farmers Market in Weldford. After that, they participated in the Elsipogtogpowwow, where Coon carried aflag in the Grand Entry.

Coon said in a release on social media that a Green government would fully implement the Calls to Action of the national Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Coon and Arseneau will round out the day with stops in Rexton and Acadieville.

People's Alliance Leader Kris Austin continued his focus on securing his home riding of Fredericton-Grand Lake, where he planned to campaign Saturday morning before heading to Noonan for a noon barbecue.

NDPLeader Jennifer McKenzie planned to be inSaint John, where she was discussing pay equity while canvassing in her home riding of Saint John Harbour.

Higgshad plans to wrap up his day in the area as well with a stop at the Saint John Exhibition.

After his announcement Saturday morning, Gallant has planned stops in Fredericton, Monctonand Dieppe.