Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark calls it a “tremendous opportunity” to bring in new physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and other medical professionals.
Clark was speaking about the Regional Economic Development through Immigration pilot program at a workshop held this week by the Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office.
Late last year, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville were selected to participate in the pilot after demonstrating that they have skilled labour needs that cannot be met locally.
Over 65 attendees took part in the workshop where there were three different sessions, each addressing multiple industry sectors including healthcare, manufacturing,
logistics, warehousing and construction.
Organizers say the goal of each session was to help attendees better understand the REDI program process and its purpose to assist employers with making informed decisions regarding talent attraction and retention.
Ann Weir is the Economic Development Manager for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and she tells Moose FM they want to get the word about the pilot program out.
“We want to make sure everybody is aware of it, the opportunity, and to take advantage of that as this is something that not every municipality in Ontario has the opportunity to be a part of.”
The program will run for one year.
