News Release - Canada's new government helps to match foreign skilled workers with companies in need

Calgary, July 31, 2006 — The Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today announced the creation of temporary foreign worker units in Calgary and Vancouver on a pilot basis, effective September 1, 2006.

“We will help facilitate the entry of temporary foreign workers into Canada where they are needed by working with the companies and sectors most affected,” Minister Solberg said. “Not a day has gone by since I was appointed Minister that I have not heard about labour market shortages threatening to hold up Canada’s economic growth. We’re taking the first steps to addressing those needs.”

The temporary foreign worker units will provide advice to employers who plan to hire temporary foreign workers who are exempted from the labour market confirmation process. The units will also prescreen supporting documents from employers to streamline the application process of such workers.

“Temporary foreign workers help support economic growth and prosperity, and I’m pleased that CIC is working with provinces and communities to address labour shortages in Alberta and British Columbia,” said Minister Solberg.

For further information (media only):

Minister’s Office:
Lesley Harmer
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
613-954-1064

Ottawa:
Mélanie Carkner
Media Relations
Communications Branch
613-941-7028

Backgrounder:

• Temporary foreign worker units