Recognition of foreign credentials given a boost Solutions will be proposed at immigrant-led roundtables in Ontario and British Columbia
TORONTO, April 13, 2004 -- An important step was taken today to improve the recognition of foreign credentials in Canada. The Honourable Jean Augustine, Minister of State (Multiculturalism and Status of Women), announced Government of Canada funding of $977,876 for two projects that will help immigrants to Canada, and Canadians trained abroad, find work in their field of expertise."Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world. We need to take full advantage of the skills and knowledge that immigrants and foreign-trained Canadians bring to the table," said Minister of State Augustine."This is not just an issue for immigrants or foreign-trained Canadians; it affects all Canadians. Our entire country suffers when skilled people are prevented from working and participating in our economy and our society."
The British Columbia Internationally Trained Professionals Network (BCITP) and the Policy Roundtable Accessing Professions and Trades (PROMPT) in Ontario are two provincial projects that will build networks for internationally trained professionals in provinces across Canada. These networks will provide professionals and skilled tradespeople with the necessary support, education and training so they can find employment in Canada. Both PROMPT and BCITP will also act as facilitators between internationally trained professionals and Canadian regulatory bodies, institutions and governments so that realistic solutions to foreign credential recognition can be found.
Foreign credential recognition is complex because it involves many different layers of the government and private sector. PROMPT and BCITP will try to improve this situation by linking existing networks together across Canada and facilitating roundtables so workable solutions can be found.
The funding of $977,876 for the PROMPT and BCITP projects is provided over a two-year period through the Multiculturalism Program of Canadian Heritage. Canada's Multiculturalism Policy promotes full and equitable participation in Canadian society for people of all origins and encourages interaction between communities of different ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds. It also encourages public institutions to be respectful and inclusive of Canada's multicultural character.
Funding for these projects was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.
Information:
Fred Sherman
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of State
(Multiculturalism and Status of Women)
(819) 997-9900
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