Rob Oliphant, M.P., awaits action, not words, on recognition of foreign credentials

For Immediate Release

November 30, 2009

TORONTO– While welcoming the new federal-provincial agreement on recognition of foreign credentials, Rob Oliphant, Member of Parliament for Don Valley West, called on the Harper government to take more concrete actions to help new Canadians.  “What new Canadians are really looking for is an opportunity to use their skills to help build a better Canada.  They need Canadian experience to help make a contribution.  Foreign credential recognition is only a part of this goal.  This government must ensure they are creating these jobs as well.” Oliphant said. 

On September 23rd, Rob Oliphant held a well-attended event entitled Untangling the Knots, a town hall focusing on foreign credentials and immigration.  The meeting included presentations from Rob Oliphant, the Honourable Jean Augustine, Fairness Commissioner for Ontario and the Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Member of Provincial Parliament for Don Valley West and Minister of Education.  The meeting also featured presentations from a number of regulatory bodies.

“I am pleased to see the Government of Canada finally taking action to address this significant problem.  For too long they have ignored the pleas for help from new Canadians.” said Oliphant.  He added, “I have been hard at work on this issue since I was elected, meeting both with constituents and stakeholder organizations to help provide increased information to Canadians fighting to have their credentials recognized.” 

Mr. Oliphant also called on the Government to increase funding for job training for new Canadians.  “In the event that there is a gap between foreign training and Canadian standards, what is this government prepared to do to assist new Canadians in improving their education so they can put their skills to use in Canada?” 

“While the announcement is a good start, the Conservative government’s inaction on this issue the last four years has been unacceptable.  I will monitor the implementation of this initiative over the next year while ensuring that this program is not just another one of their empty promises to help new Canadians.” Mr. Oliphant concluded. 

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Contact:
Mahzar Shafiq
Office of Rob Oliphant, MP
416-467-7275