PROVINCE UNVEILS NEW IMMIGRATION STRATEGY

Saskatchewan's new immigration strategy was released to the public today during an event at Greystone Heights Elementary School in Saskatoon. The strategy responds to important social and economic changes underway within and beyond Saskatchewan by improving upon current immigration programs and undertaking new initiatives to create jobs and renew communities.

Before an audience comprised of students, teachers, parents and stakeholders at Greystone Heights Elementary School, Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister and Minister responsible for Immigration Rob Norris noted that one-quarter of the school's students were born outside of Canada, and emphasized the importance of diversity to Saskatchewan's future growth and prosperity.

"Quite simply, this new strategy draws on our multicultural heritage to strengthen our communities, create greater prosperity and foster new jobs in Saskatchewan," Norris said. "When you can bring people together with different backgrounds, cultures, world views and ideas, they all have something special to contribute."

Last year, through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nomination Program, 2,914 individuals were nominated for residence in Saskatchewan. The target for 2009-10 is 3,400 nominees, which, with spouses and families, would result in nearly 10,000 new Saskatchewan residents. That is why the province invested an additional $2.69 million for immigration in 2009-10.

Saskatchewan's Immigration Strategy: Strengthening Our Communities and Economy is based on consultations with more than 300 stakeholders from around the province. The strategy will increase the number of immigrants welcomed into the province and enhance the services that help newcomers settle into their new communities.

"Ultimately, our plan is about neighbours, not numbers," Norris said. "Immigrants do much more than increase our population; they help to create more diverse, dynamic and cosmopolitan communities, while strengthening our labour market, stimulating economic investment and creating jobs."

For information about the strategy, visit www.immigration.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Daniela Machuca
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3716
Email: daniela.machuca2@gov.sk.ca