Multiculturalism Good for Economy

By 250 News

Attorney General/ Minister of Multiculturalism Wally Oppal

The fact that B.C. has a diverse, multi cultural population, gives it a distinct economic advantage says Attorney General / Minister for Multiculturalism, Wally Oppal. 

Speaking at the Northern Regional Health Fair in Prince George, Oppal says the advantage comes in part because of the province’s geographic location, the other part is a result of a varied population “B.C. is blessed with its ability to deal with Pacific Rim countries in their own languages.”

Oppal says with the economy booming, there needs to be a better way to fast track those immigrants who have special skills. “It’s been said the best place to have a heart attack in Canada is in a taxi because the chances are the driver will be a foreign trained Doctor”.

Oppal says with shortages of health care professionals, and all levels of skilled labour there needs to be increased focus on reducing barriers which prevent people from plying their skills.

He, along with the Minister of Economic Development, Colin Hansen, huddled with the Federal Minister of Immigration in order to secure further funding for settlement programs in the field of immigration so adults who come to Canada can upgrade their language skills so they can become more productive.

Oppal says if all of the immigrants reach their business targets, it will mean $97 million dollars in new investment in B.C. and the creation of 683 full time jobs.

Email | Print | Facebook | Twitter | Digg | Del.icio.us