May 27, 2005 Winnipeg, Manitoba -- The Government of Canada today launched a new Web site that will boost Manitoba’s labour force by making it easier and faster to have immigrants’ foreign-earned credentials recognized in Canada . The Web site was launched by Anita Neville, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). “New immigrants are key to Manitoba’s future economic growth, especially to address shortages of professionals and skilled tradespeople,” said Neville, “We need our foreign-trained doctors working as doctors and skilled tradespeople working in their trades. When that happens, it’s good for immigrants and it’s good for Manitoba’s economy.” Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) invested $50,000 to develop the Web site, which will ensure consistent and comprehensive information for service providers who are the first point of contact for immigrants. “There are many programs and services aimed at bringing immigrants in to participate in the Manitoba economy, and this site brings them all together,” said Monika Feist, Director of Success Skills Centre Inc., which coordinated the site’s development. “Ultimately, by showing immigrants that we have the support systems in place to make an easier transition to Manitoba, this site will help make the province a destination of choice for skilled trades and professionals that are so much in demand,” she added. The site’s information includes: Which documents immigrants need to work in Manitoba Where to enhance English and French language skills Services in Manitoba that cater to immigrants, including education and training, employment services and newcomer services Manitoba labour market information, including high-demand skills Employer information: what employers need to know about hiring foreign workers, as well as resources for self-employed business immigrants who are investing in Canada How to get foreign credentials recognized in Manitoba The site will be managed, maintained and updated by the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre (CMBSC), one of over one hundred points of service in WD’s Western Canada Business Service Network. WD is the federal department mandated to develop Western Canada’s economy through initiatives that advance sustainable communities, innovation and entrepreneurship. Success Skills Centre Inc. is a community-based, non-profit organization that has been working exclusively with professional and skilled immigrants since 1985. The Web site can be viewed at www.immigranttoolbox.ca Federal funding for this initiative is included in the fiscal framework. - 30 - For additional information, contact: Dougald Lamont Communications Officer Western Economic Diversification Canada Tel: (204) 983-0280 WD Toll-Free Number 1-888-338-WEST (9378) World Wide Web Site: English: http://www.wd.gc.ca French: http://www.deo.gc.ca
