SGI INTRODUCES NEW DRIVER EDUCATION FUNDING FOR IMMIGRANTS

SGI is providing immigrants to Saskatchewan with a helping hand in obtaining their driver's licence with the introduction of the Immigrant Driver Education Grant Program.

SGI is making $125,000 available for refugees and immigrants who have taken up permanent residency in Saskatchewan, and who legally require driver education to obtain a Saskatchewan Class 5 driver's licence.

"For some new immigrants coming to Saskatchewan, the lack of a driver's licence is a barrier to gaining or retaining meaningful employment," Crown Corporations Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. "We understand having a valid driver's licence can enhance a person's life and significantly increase their options for employment. With at least 10,000 immigrants coming to our province annually, we want to help them build a successful life in Saskatchewan."

"Funding for the Immigrant Driver Education Grant Program will help to ensure that newcomers to Saskatchewan have greater access to the supports they need, such as driver education, allowing them to participate more fully in the community and build their futures here," Minister responsible for Immigration Rob Norris said.

Funding is available to those who have not previously completed a certified driver education course, allowing them to obtain the required six hours of in-class and six hours of in-car training.

To be eligible for the funding, applicants must:

• hold a valid Class 7 learner's licence;
• submit a signed application form that authorizes SGI to verify the applicant's driving eligibility;
• be a Saskatchewan resident;
• provide the name of the driver educator/school being hired and the amount of funding required;
• provide a copy of immigration documents outlining the applicant's status; and
• have a reasonable understanding of the English language in order to comprehend the training course.

The amount of funding an applicant will receive is determined by how much training is needed and by the total number of applications. Applicants are asked to apply early to ensure they receive funding.
Funding will be distributed throughout the province and applicants will be required to complete all training within three months of approval in order to guarantee funding.

For more information about the program or to obtain an applicant form, visit SGI's website at www.sgi.sk.ca.

About SGI

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is the province's self-sustaining auto insurance fund. SGI operates 21 claims centres and five salvage centres across Saskatchewan and a head office in Regina. The organization employs over 1,800 people and works with a network of almost 300 independent insurance brokers and 420 motor licence issuers across the province. Visit SGI at www.sgi.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Clemett
Saskatchewan Government Insurance
Regina
Phone: 306-775-6675
Email: cclemett@sgi.sk.ca
Cell: 306-530-2348