74 Syrians have already found jobs in N.B.
Some refugees are quickly adapting to job market
When the province welcomed Syrian refugees earlier this year, some were concerned about their ability to integrate into Canadian society. In the employment market, there's good news to point out.
"What I'm struck by is how quickly a humanitarian project turned into a positive economic impact for New Brunswick," said Alex Leblanc, the managing director of the New Brunswick Multicultural Council.
Leblanc said that in addition to the initiatives that help Syrians produce goods to sell at local markets, many have found jobs in the open market.
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"Right now there are 74 Syrians, throughout the cohort that are in New Brunswick, that have worked, or who are working right now part-time or full-time in various jobs," said LeBlanc.
Leblanc attributes at least part of this to a job market with a need for certain workers.
"There are specific sectors where employers are desperate for people, and we've had employers approach us in all communities saying [they need more workers]," said Leblanc.
Leblanc said in his experience with Syrian refugees, he sees a group that wants to break free of government support.
"They want to learn, they want to participate, they want to be independent. They appreciate the support, but I really think they're feeling an urgency to get off support and become independent,"
Information Morning Fredericton