Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
December 7, 2017

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Al Hawkins, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour:

Minister Hawkins Welcomes Newcomers under Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program

Mr. Speaker, it is an honour for me to welcome Ciara O’Connor, Dr. Judit Lovas and Jeremiah Stafford to our province. They are among the newest immigrants to Newfoundland and Labrador and come to us through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program launched in March of this year.

Dr. Lovas came to Newfoundland and Labrador from Hungary and is being endorsed by the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women, working as a research and policy analyst.

Ms. O’Connor is from Ireland and is working as program director with Blue Sky Family Care in Corner Brook.

Mr. Stafford is from Australia and is the executive chef of the Reluctant Chef restaurant in St. John’s.

These three individuals are among over 100 people to date who are being endorsed by employers in our province under the Atlantic Immigration Program.

The goal of the pilot is to enhance retention of immigrant workers throughout Atlantic Canada. By assisting employers in filling labour market needs, the program supports objectives of The Way Forward on Immigration in Newfoundland and Labrador. In partnership with government and community organizations, employers ensure immigrant workers have access to settlement services and supports.

We continue to promote the program to raise awareness and I encourage employers to follow the lead of those who have endorsed Dr. Lovas, Ms. O’Connor and Mr. Stafford, by seeking designation through the program and helping to grow our province’s population and economy.

I ask all Honourable members to join me in extending a warm welcome to all of our newcomers and thank them for putting their talent and training to work for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.

2017 12 07                              2:00 p.m.