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By rdnewsNOW staff

Newcomer progress

Third annual Premier’s Summit on Fairness for Newcomers continues progress

Oct 17, 2024 | 11:00 AM

The third annual Premier’s Summit on Fairness for Newcomers took place in Calgary on Wednesday with this year’s theme in mind of “celebrating trades and professions in Alberta.”

The provincial government says they’re committed to ensuring that every newcomer can thrive in Alberta.

Because of their important role in the economy, the Summit explored ways for newcomer success for the growth of the economy.

“A major part of the Alberta Advantage is the people who contribute to our communities, our economy and our prosperity,” said Premier of Alberta, Danielle Smith in a media release.

“As Alberta’s economy continues to build momentum, we’re seeing a growing need for skilled labour in many areas. We know many newcomers have the skills and experience to fill those jobs, so it’s critical we create an environment where foreign trade credentials are recognized more quickly and with less red tape.”

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The Summit brought together representatives from organizations, post-secondary institutions, Alberta regulatory bodies, and trade unions from across Alberta to discuss actions that will benefit newcomers and all Albertans.

The main topics discussed included attracting talent, pathways to success, credential recognition, and recognizing achievement.

When it came to attracting talent, they discussed ways of attracting newcomers to strengthen the province’s work force.

They also talked about how to make it easier for newcomers to get into skilled trades and regulated professions.

In credential recognition, they explored efforts to streamline foreign credentials, which would help newcomers enter the workforce more quickly. And in recognizing achievement, they talked about the ways the government is creating ways for participation in the labour market.

Ontario’s former minister of labour also gave a keynote speech on his thoughts on labour and training and skills development.

“Newcomers bring invaluable skills, ideas and perspectives that enrich our workforce and communities,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education.

“With the right support and recognition of their international skills, newcomers can thrive in the skilled trades and regulated professions. These professions are more than just jobs; they are pathways to prosperity.”