Nova Scotia looking to attract more immigrants

The Nova Scotia Government and Halifax Partnership have announced that they are working together to help employers attract more immigrants and fill skilled labour shortages.

A two-year agreement between the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration and the Halifax Partnership will support and advance the employer-driven Atlantic Immigration Pilot to help businesses attract and retain global talent.

“Growing the Nova Scotia economy is a top priority across government and immigration is critical to our success,” said Nova Scotia’s Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab. “This partnership will make it easier for employers to access the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and help them overcome persistent labour gaps.”

Launched in March 2017, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot is an innovative partnership between the four Atlantic provinces and the Government of Canada to help businesses of all sizes attract and retain skilled foreign workers and international graduates to fill labour gaps.

“Attracting and retaining more immigrants and connecting businesses to the talent they need to succeed is critical to the growth of our city and province,” says Ron Hanlon, president and CEO of the Halifax Partnership. “The Halifax Partnership is pleased to be working with the province to help businesses take advantage of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and attract skilled talent from around the world.”

Under the agreement with the Halifax Partnership, up to 50 employers are expected to connect with more than 450 skilled workers that they require to meet their pressing labour market needs. Nova Scotia is also working with business organisations in other parts of the province on similar projects to help local employers fill their labour gaps.

More than 225 companies across the province have already submitted applications to participate in the program. This partnership will help bring in an additional 50 employers.

The Halifax Partnership is the Nova Scotian capital city’s economic development organisation. Its aim is help keep, grow and get business, talent and investment in the city.

Article published 13th July 2017