News Release

Canada’s new government funds Ontario to enhance online resources to help immigrants integrate

Ottawa, May 24, 2007 — The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today announced approximately $18.8 million in funding for several provinces and territories to enhance online information about settling and working across the country to help immigrants integrate into Canadian society.

Ontario will receive $10 million over a four-year period, as committed to in the Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement.  A significant portion of that funding will go toward municipal projects to help enhance information at the local level. The funding will also be used to develop online content, tools and services that promote the province as a destination and help immigrants integrate once they arrive. The funds can also be used for consultation and outreach.

“Canada’s New Government recognizes the importance of helping immigrant families succeed and we are committed to helping newcomers settle and prosper in Canada,” said Minister Finley. “As the Internet often serves as a primary source of information, the provision of timely, accurate and relevant information is essential. With each region of Canada having its own unique characteristics and opportunities, online resources will help immigrants as they arrive and settle in Canada.”

“The Ontario Government is pleased to work with CIC to implement the Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement,” said the Honourable Mike Colle, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. “The launch of Ontario’s immigration portal, www.OntarioImmigration.ca, was a key component of this first-ever agreement. Ontario has led the initiative to secure municipal involvement in the portal development and has already successfully engaged five municipalities, including London, Ottawa, Toronto, Sudbury and Windsor/Essex.  An additional eight municipalities will be added in the future.”

Contribution agreements have also been signed with Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Alberta, Northwest Territories and the Yukon. Under existing federal-provincial immigration agreements, British Columbia and Manitoba will also receive funding to help them improve the provision of online information for prospective immigrants and newcomers.

The Ontario immigration portal links to the government’s existing Going to Canada Immigration Portal (www.goingtocanada.gc.ca), which provides online information and services to help immigrants make informed decisions about coming to Canada, and assists them in their integration and settlement once they arrive.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Philippe Mailhot
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064

Rejean Cantlon
Ontario Regional Communications
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
416-954-7868

Backgrounder

• Funding agreements with provinces and territories