Government of Canada encourages dialogue and mutual assistance between immigrants and Prince Edward Island residents
CHARLOTTETOWN, March 23, 2005 -- Member of Parliament (Charlottetown) Shawn Murphy, on behalf of Minister of State (Multiculturalism) Raymond Chan, today announced $10,000 in funding for the Prince Edward Island Association for Newcomers to Canada. The funds will help the Association to foster public awareness of the challenges confronting immigrants, and to encourage their participation in community life across the Island."To ensure that everyone can take an active part in society, the Government of Canada is proud to support organizations, like this Association, that provide training and support to both immigrants and members of their host communities," said Mr. Murphy.
"For more than four centuries, Canadians of all backgrounds have contributed to our society. This diversity adds richness and vitality," said Minister of State Chan. "By promoting intercultural dialogue and participation by immigrants in the Island's economic, social, political and cultural life, the Association enables all Prince Edward Islanders to benefit from the skills and experience of new Canadians."
The Prince Edward Island Association for Newcomers to Canada intends to offer workshops in six communities of the province. The objective is to promote the values of openness and respect among Islanders, and to encourage mutual assistance between community members and immigrants.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Multiculturalism Program. Canada's Multiculturalism Policy, which falls under the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, promotes full and equitable participation from people of all origins in Canadian society, as well as interaction between diverse individuals and communities. It also encourages public institutions to respect and promote Canada's multicultural character.
Funding announced today was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget.
Information:
Roy Bornman
Office of the Minister of State
(Multiculturalism)
(819) 997-9900
Barry MacMillan
Office of Shawn Murphy, M.P.
(902) 566-7016
Claudine Daigle
Director, Communications
Canadian Heritage
(506) 851-3980
[ Media Room ]
