NEW FUNDING FOR RECENT IMMIGRANTS

Recent immigrants to Saskatchewan will have access to better language training and employment services as a result of $350,000 in new provincial funding.

"Enhancing the settlement and integration of refugees and immigrants to Saskatchewan is a priority of the provincial government," Minister responsible for Immigration Pat Atkinson said. "The initiatives announced today will be undertaken in partnership with Saskatchewan communities and local community organizations that serve immigrants, such as the province's settlement agencies."

Enhanced Language Training (ELT) services for recent immigrants to Saskatchewan will be expanded through $200,000 in new provincial funding. The new money for ELT enables the province to lever a matching amount of federal funding for a total of $400,000 in new funding for enhanced language training, mentoring and work experiences in Saskatchewan.

An additional $150,000 in provincial funding will be used to establish an employment internship pilot project for immigrants. The project will provide immigrants to Saskatchewan with better opportunities to advance in the labour market. Services provided to clients under this project will include language or other training and employment services that will increase their employability in Saskatchewan.

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For More Information, Contact:

Michelle Burns Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-2155