PROVINCE FUNDS NEW OCCUPATIONAL LANGUAGE TRAINING FOR IMMIGRANTS IN PRINCE ALBERT

The province is providing $47,400 in new funding to the Prince Albert Multicultural Council to pilot an occupational language training program for new immigrants.

The program will assist immigrants with limited English skills in gaining the language proficiency required for finding entry-level occupations and maintaining employment.

"We're pleased to be working with the Prince Albert Multicultural Council to provide newcomers with language training that matches their needs and positions them to participate in the community socially and economically," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "This pilot is an example of how our government is working with community-based organizations to ensure new Saskatchewan residents feel the benefits of our strong and growing economy."

"We are very grateful to the provincial government for this support and excited about being able to offer this innovative new language program," Prince Albert Multicultural Council executive director Marge Nainaar said. "The program will have an important impact in terms of providing newcomers with the language skills they need to build their livelihoods here and contribute to our community."

The program will run from September 8, 2008 to March 20, 2009. An extension of the program and expansion to other locations will be considered based on results.

This is the first time the province has provided funding to the Prince Albert Multicultural Council for the delivery of specific services to immigrants and refugees. The province is also providing $15,345 in annual core funding to the Prince Albert Multicultural Council this year.

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For more information, contact:

Donna-Rae Crooks
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3716
Email: donna-rae.crooks@gov.sk.ca