Training programs for newcomers in Ontario get $91m boost

Up to $91 million will be invested in Ontario over the next three years for training programs designed to help newcomers meet local employment requirements.

The ‘Bridge Training Programs’ are a joint effort by the province and the federal government, and aim to help internationally-trained workers find work in their profession in Ontario.

The province will provide $70 million in funding, while the remainder will be supplied by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

In total, the federal government is investing more than $334 million in settlement services for newcomers in Ontario in 2017-18. Additionally, the province is providing $110 million in investment, in services such as language training, and settlement and employment programs.

The announcement comes as a new agreement on immigration in Ontario was signed today by Immigration Minister, Ahmed Hussen, and Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Laura Albanese.

The Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement (COIA) provides a framework for objectives and priorities relating to immigration in the province over the next five years.

The agreement includes a commitment to increase the number of French-speaking immigrants, and strengthen immigration supports for francophone communities.

It also outlines the continued importance both the provincial and federal governments place on the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. The agreement states the principle of the “Provincial Nominee Program as a strategic tool for significant economic benefit in the province.”

“Ontario is the top destination for new permanent residents settling in Canada each year, typically exceeding 100,000 newcomers,” Minister Hussen explained.

“With the ambitious three-year levels plan we’ve established on immigration, the time is right to put a new agreement in place that defines how Canada and Ontario will work together to achieve our mutual goals,” he added.

It’s hoped the initiatives will continue to maximize the economic, social, and cultural benefits of immigration in Ontario.

“Immigration is good for Ontario and good for Canada. The Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement strengthens Ontario’s ability to partner with the federal government to attract skilled newcomers who will benefit our shared economies and contribute to Canada’s future prosperity,” Minister Albanese said.

For employment opportunities in Canada, visit the Moving2Canada Jobs Board.