The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) announced yesterday that she will be working closely with the HonourableMonte Solberg and Human Resources and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to create an office for the Canadian recognition of foreign work credentials.

The office will help new Canadian permanent residents prepare forwork in Canadain their chosen field by providing Canadian accreditation for foreign-trained workers/professionals. Recognizing the improvement of labour marketintegration as an important element of Canadian immigration and the Canadian economy, the 2006 Federal Budget has pledged $18 million over two years toestablish this office.

Finley and Solberg are counting on support from across the country and all levels of government including provinces, territories,regional regulatory agencies, post secondary educational institutions, sector councils, and Canadian employers from coast to coast.

Finley expects much progress to be made in the coming weeks.