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Immigrants to Canada boost Saskatchewan’s population

Sep 30, 2010 | 3:50 PM

Reported By Sarah Mills
 

The Regina Open Door Society is rolling out the welcome mat to the immigrants helping to boost Saskatchewan population..

Statistics Canada released the latest population numbers on Wednesday that shows Saskatchewan is breaking records with a population now at 1,045,622. One quarter of those behind the increase are immigrants.

Darcy Dietrich, executive director of Open Door, thinks it really is the economic boom in Saskatchewan that is attracting them.

“There are a lot more opportunities, a lot more labour opportunities for one thing,” said Dietrich.

As well, he says the provincial government is focusing on increasing immigration numbers.

“It is working more closely with the federal government in terms of immigration services that are rolling out,” said Dietrich.

Dietrich admits from the weather to the size of our city can all be a shock to those new here. Often, a welcoming smile from those on the street is sometimes all they are looking for.

The Regina Open Door Society is often the first stop for many new to Saskatchewan and Canada. It offers not just newcomer services, but language, employment and housing information to help people get settled.