A new international study and trade agreement is set to help British and Irish tradespeople to move to Canada. The study will be undertaken by the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) and the UK National Recognition Information Centre (UK NARIC), supported by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (http://www.cic.gc.ca/). UK NARIC is an organisation working on behalf of the UK Government which provides information about qualifications around the world.
The study will assist with matching up Canada’s labour shortages for tradespeople with the skills of potential migrants. An electronic guide will be produced involving skills mapping and outlining certifications.
The study will assist potential British and Irish migrants applying for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). This is a program launched last year which is for skilled tradespeople moving to Canada. The program accepts a maximum of 3000 applications per year. There are certain eligibility requirements for this programme including language proficiency, work experience and education / qualifications. It is also worth noting that this scheme does not include Quebec.
Canada is in need of tradespeople due to its vast natural resources and booming mining and construction industries. Many regions and territories have skills shortages and many trades are in demand such as technicians, electricians, welders, carpenters, plumbers and mechanics among others. There are currently 43 occupations in the FSTP programme.
The study is in line with the Canadian Government’s focus on economic growth with regards to immigration.
Jason Kenney, Canada’s Employment and Social Development Minister has been quoted as saying:
Our Government’s top priorities are creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. This project will help employers find the skilled employees they need to expand their businesses, succeed and help newcomers get a job at their skill level faster.
The study is already underway and in summary it should help potential migrants from British and Ireland to understand Canadian trade job requirements.
