PR No. 146-2024

08 November 2024, Ottawa. Ambassador Maria Andrelita S. Austria and Minister of Health of Prince Edward Island (PEI) Mark McLane discussed updates on PEI’s efforts to address concerns regarding foreign credentials recognition in PEI.

Both sides recognized the contributions of Filipino nurses and healthcare professionals to PEI’s healthcare industry. “The Filipino community is one of the most productive communities in PEI, but they can do more if their credentials are recognized,” Ambassador Austria said.

Ambassador Austria cited successful models of streamlining foreign credentials recognition in other Canadian provinces, such as in Nova Scotia and Alberta. 

Minister McLane’s team highlighted PEI’s Transition to Registered Nursing in Canada (TRNC) Program, in partnership with Saskatchewan Polytechnic to help internationally educated nurses transition to and integrate in PEI.

Both sides also agreed to study community integration models, including the establishment of a Filipino community center and funding for heritage celebration activities.

Ambassador Austria and her team went on a three--day visit to PEI to meet with the Filipino community and check on Filipinos working in the Province. During the visit, she discussed with PEI government officials ways to address the barriers to recognition of foreign credentials, strengthen the Filipino community and promote trade and investments.

She was accompanied by Consul General Rea Oreta, Officer in-Charge of the Migrant Workers Office in Toronto, Benny Reyes, Trade Commissioner for Canada Mario Tani and former Philippine Honorary Consul in Charlottetown, Leticia La Rosa. END