HRPA applauds the announcement by Minister McNaughton introducing legislation that, if passed, would remove barriers for internationally-trained immigrants trying to start their careers in Ontario. The proposed legislation seeks, among other provisions,  to eliminate the Canadian experience requirements for many professional and trade associations.

HRPA has been at the forefront of this issue and eliminated the Canadian experience requirement for achieving designation in 2010. While necessary standards continue to be in place for experience requirements, they are not tied to geography but rather the nature and quality of the experience to meet thresholds.

In his announcement, Minister McNaughton noted that only 25% of immigrants in Ontario work in the jobs and professions for which they were trained.

“HRPA supports this legislation and believes that removing barriers like the Canadian experience requirement will promote better fairness in the market and offer more opportunities for immigrant workers,” said Louise Taylor Green, CEO.

“We have people around the world actively pursuing certification with HRPA and I am proud we leveled the playing field. HRPA applauds Minister McNaughton and the Ontario government for taking this progressive policy stance.”