Harper proposes new loans to assist recent immigrants

NEWS RELEASE

CONSERVATIVE PARTY OF CANADA

***************************** Harper proposes new loans to assist with foreign credential recognition

MARKHAM - Today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced new measures to help recent immigrants strengthen their families’ financial security by getting their foreign credentials recognized in Canada faster and more easily. 

At a campaign event at NOVO Plastics, the prime minister welcomed and praised the contributions that immigrants have made to Canada’s growth, and discussed the measures his government has taken to help new Canadians put their skills to work. 

“We understand the importance of credential recognition to the financial security and well-being of new Canadians and their families, as well as the Canadian economy,” said Harper. “Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, our government has invested $50 million over two years in the development and implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.”

This program has already helped thousands of internationally-trained workers integrate into the workforce.

Today, the Prime Minister announced that a Conservative Government would build on its achievements by providing new loans to help recent immigrants pay for skills training or upgrading required before their credentials can be recognized here in Canada. 

“Some foreign-trained workers have difficulty paying for the tuition and other training costs associated with the foreign credential recognition process. These bridge loans will make it easier for new Canadians to find jobs that take full advantage of their experience and expertise,” Harper said. “The loans will enable them to participate in and contribute fully to the growth of the Canadian economy.” 

The Prime Minister expressed solidarity with new Canadians, explaining that “the Conservative Party has a proven record of welcoming new Canadians and giving them the tools they need to contribute to the Canadian economy and build a better future for their families.” 

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