Launch Of Federal Internship For Newcomers Program

11 Oct 2010

A new program designed to assist the newcomers in gaining valuable Canadian work experience is being launched by Government of Canada which is known as Federal Internship for Newcomers program. This program will help gain some temporary work experience in fields they are qualified to work basing on their skills and previous work experience. These temporary work placements (internships) will be available within the federal government to help program participants integrate in the Canadian labour market.

Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney said, "Newcomers are key to building a stronger Canada." And, added, “The Federal Internship for Newcomers program helps immigrants uses their skills in the Canadian labour market as they begin their new lives in Canada."

"This program is an example of how we are taking action so that newcomers can maximize their talents and contribute to Canada's long-term economic success," said Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

The departments and agencies participating in the program are: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC), Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), Health Canada, Natural Resources Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. Besides these organizations, a number of other departments and agencies have already confirmed their interest in participating in the program.

Internships are available in administration, policy, finance, science, translation, and communication. Over the past year, CIC and HRSDC were able to extend opportunities to 29 interns. This year, the number has more than doubled, with over 60 interns participating in the fall intake.

It is expected the program will quickly gain popularity and that the number of internship positions available will increase significantly because many other government agencies have expressed an interest in participating.