No Canadian experience - no job, fact or myth?, a qualitative inquiry of newcomers' perceptions and experiences with the labour market

grantor: University of TorontoRecent research in immigrants' participation in the Canadian labour market indicates above average levels of unemployment, and points to the severe repercussions to the individual and the community. This study attempts to explore the perceptions and labour market experiences of nine newcomers, and its implications on immigrants' integration and adult language programmes. It finds that upon arrival in Canada, most participants experienced severe difficulties. It observes that these newcomers initially believed 'Canadian experience' to be their greatest barrier to employment, and that initial perception had changed overtime. It also observes that participation in an ESL/workplace preparation programme assisted these recent immigrants in labour market integration. All of the participants secured related employment or co-op placements which led to job offers. Overall, the findings are informative for public and policy decision-makers about immigrants' integration, and useful for future design of settlement policies and adult ESL programmes.M.A