SASKATOON ANNOUNCES IMMIGRATION PROJECT DESIGNED TO SUPPORT SETTLEMENT AND RETENTION OF NEWCOMERS

The Government of Canada, Province of Saskatchewan and City of Saskatoon today announced an immigration project that will help welcome newcomers to Saskatoon and ensure they stay in our province.

The Saskatoon Immigration Project will promote and co-ordinate early settlement and integration support for immigrants and refugees moving to Saskatoon. This will be achieved by fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers, developing a governance model for the immigration plan, developing sector specific strategies, and increasing residents' awareness of the positive contributions of immigrants to Saskatoon. The City has hired an Immigration Community Resource Co-ordinator as an essential first step toward achieving these objectives.

"The Government of Canada wants newcomers to Saskatoon to succeed, and partnerships are key to their success," said Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. "When newcomers and their families are able to settle into their new communities and feel they are making a positive contribution, it is good for their families and for the country as a whole."

"Our government believes that improving our province's ability to attract and retain immigrants is vital to building dynamic communities, sustaining economic growth and securing a bright future," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "The City of Saskatoon's immigration project is an excellent collaborative initiative that will help to ensure newcomers have the supports they need to build their futures here in Saskatchewan."

"The development and implementation of this project is important for the growth and support of Saskatoon, both in the local and global marketplace," Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison. "Immigration brings unique cultures, hopes and dreams, while adding harmony, diversity and vitality to our city."

The Saskatoon Immigration Project is co-funded by the Government of Canada, Province of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Jones-Bonk
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3106
Email: chris.jones-bonk@gov.sk.ca

Lynne Lacroix
Community Development Branch
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-975-3390