A new initiative by the Canadian government promises to help newcomers better integrate into the country’s workforce through the improvement of foreign qualification recognition. 

The project will take place in Manitoba and help skilled migrants integrate into the local workforce. 

“Our government is committed to helping newcomers succeed in Canada. That’s why we’re taking action to improve foreign qualifications recognition so that newcomers can maximise their talents right here in Manitoba and contribute to the local economy. 

“I’m pleased to support the Workforce Integration project, because we know that attracting the best international talent is important to Canada’s long-term economic success,” commented Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, announcing the project on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

To support the Workforce Integration of Skilled Newcomers in the Trades project, the Alliance of Manitoba Sector Councils will receive over $1.3 million in funding from the Canadian government. This funding will enable them to match skilled migrants with Manitoba employers in need of tradespeople. The migrant will also receive one-on-one support to help him or her through the accreditation system.

“The methods and practices being tested by the Workforce Integration pilot project will become the new norm for how we do business in Manitoba,” stated Beverlie Stuart, executive director of the Alliance of Manitoba Sector Councils. 

Canada’s Economic Action Plan invested $50 million to work with the provinces and territories to address barriers to foreign credential recognition in the country. A Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications has also been announced.