08 March 2006

New website will help newcomers settle and suceed in Ontario

The Ontario government lead by Dalton McGuinty,has launched an immigration website to welcome Ontario's newcomers, and give them the information they need to start their new lives here, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Mike Colle announced today.

We're helping newcomers connect through OntarioImmigration.ca," said Colle. "Through this site, newcomers will have access to information about schools, jobs and skills training - and be able to learn about Ontario's culture and history."

The website has information about places to live, work and study in Ontario, and provides details on how to start a new business or practise in atrade or profession.

Newcomers can also download important forms such as immigration and driver's license applications on the site. Over the next two years, more information and features will be added, making this website a one-stop international gateway for newcomers from all over the world.

"In every walk of life, new Canadians make tremendous contributions to our economy and our society," said Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.

"And when newcomers to our province succeed, Ontario succeeds."

"Seven thousand newcomers have arrived in Windsor in just the past three years. This immigration website is a great way for newcomers to learn more about our city, our schools and services, before and after they arrive," says Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis.

About 125,000 newcomers arrive in Ontario each year - more than half of all immigrants to Canada. Currently, immigration accounts for an estimated 70 per cent of Ontario's net labour force growth, and will account for all of the province's net labour force growth within the next six years.

"The Ontario government is committed to helping newcomers reach their full potential," said Colle. "By providing information on how to settle and succeed in our province, we're strengthening Ontario's future prosperity."