News updates

GH Immigration Svcs

Ontario launches $228M workforce training initiative to support workers amid trade disruptions

The Ontario Government announced a major workforce development program, backed by $228.8 million in federal funding over three years.

The Canada-Ontario Workforce Tariff Response will help approximately 27,000 workers across the province retrain and upgrade their skills in response to US tariffs affecting key industries like steel, lumber, and automotive manufacturing.

Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini emphasized the government's commitment to supporting workers during economic uncertainty.

The initiative will be delivered through Skills Advance Ontario, targeting laid-off workers, those in work-sharing agreements, and employees needing additional training to remain competitive in high-growth sectors, including healthcare, skilled trades, and energy.

#ontario_workforce_training, #immigration_ontario, #skills_development, #labour_immigration, #ontario_jobs, #employment_support

March 11, 2026

Canada introduces time limits on settlement services for economic immigrants

Starting April 1, 2026, Canada will implement new restrictions on how long economic immigrants can access federally funded settlement services.

The changes mean permanent residents will have up to six years to use these programs, dropping to five years by April 2027. Ottawa says the move encourages newcomers to take advantage of job placement and integration support earlier while keeping resources available for those who need them most.

The policy affects all economic class permanent residents, including family members who arrive with them. Officials describe the adjustment as part of broader efforts to manage immigration levels while still addressing labour shortages across the country.

#canada_immigration, #settlement_services, #economic_immigrants, #permanent_residence, #newcomer_support, #labour_market, #ircc

March 11, 2026

Prince Edward Island reported strong tourism growth in 2025

Prince Edward Island saw exceptional tourism performance in 2025, welcoming 1.87 million visitors, a 10% increase over the previous year.

Visitor spending jumped 12.4%, outpacing the national average of 4.4%. The province recorded 1,126,108 paid overnight stays, its highest total ever.

Four coastal regions reached new milestones, while shoulder-season travel increased 18% since 2019.

Food and beverage receipts grew 6%, golf rounds rose 155, and museum visits climbed 29%. Tourism PEI's websites attracted 5.5 million visits, reflecting growing international interest in the destination.

#prince_edward_island, #pei_tourism, #canada_travel, #tourism, #coastal_destinations_canada, #maritime_canada

March 10, 2026

Canada suspends deportations to Israel and Lebanon amid the Middle East crisis

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has temporarily stopped all deportations to Israel and Lebanon due to the ongoing conflict in the region.

This Administrative Deferral of Removals takes effect immediately and applies to most individuals facing removal orders, citing serious safety concerns for civilians in both countries.

The measure follows reports of widespread casualties and unstable conditions throughout the region. Officials say the suspension will remain until security improves enough to allow deportations to resume safely.

The policy excludes those deemed inadmissible for serious criminal offences or security threats. Last year, Canada removed more than 22,500 people, averaging about 400 removals weekly.

#canada_border_services_agency, #deportation_halt, #middle_east_crisis, #cbsa, #refugees

March 9, 2026