Harper Government Helps Internationally Trained Accountants Get Jobs

TORONTO, ONTARIO, Nov 09, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today announced a Government of Canada investment to help internationally trained accountants get jobs in Canada faster. The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) received $1.4 million to streamline the application process for accountants educated in other countries.

"Our government is helping newcomers find meaningful work that contributes to Canada's long-term growth, competitiveness and overall prosperity." said Minister Finley. "Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, we are working with partners to improve foreign credential recognition so that newcomers can put their skills and experience to work sooner."

With this government investment, the Institute will create an online assessment tool that will validate foreign education and work experience. It will also establish customized bridging programs to help these accountants complete any additional courses and examinations required to become a chartered accountant in Canada.

"Skilled professionals are vital to Canada's future," said Kevin Dancey, President and Chief Executive Officer, CICA. "We welcome the federal government's commitment to helping internationally trained professions contribute to their full potential as quickly as possible."

Under the Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, the Government of Canada is working with the provinces and territories, as well as other partners such as regulatory bodies, to address barriers to foreign credential recognition.

In 2010, service standards were established so that internationally trained professionals in eight priority occupations, including accountants and engineers, can have their qualifications assessed within one year, anywhere in Canada. This is one example of progress toward a more fair, transparent and timely system for foreign credential recognition across Canada.

This year, the Government started improving foreign qualification recognition for six more target occupations, including physicians and dentists.

Additionally, Budget 2011 announced that Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Citizenship and Immigration Canada will test ways to help internationally trained professionals cover costs associated with the foreign credential recognition process, with specific details to be announced shortly. This initiative will complement the already significant investments the Government of Canada has made to support the labour market integration of newcomers to Canada.