The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville will pilot Ontario’s Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) program, aiming to address local skilled labour shortages. Announced by Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark at the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit, the initiative is part of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
The REDI pilot, launching in early 2025, will run for a year and allocate up to 200 nominations for skilled foreign workers seeking permanent residence. It targets critical sectors like healthcare, with roles such as family doctors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and personal support workers. The pilot will also support long-term care facilities, including Maple View Landings, set to open next year.
“This program is a proactive step to attract talent to Leeds Grenville,” said Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke, emphasizing its role in bolstering the workforce and supporting economic growth.
Selected communities demonstrated significant local labour needs, with the REDI pilot designed to retain foreign workers vital for economic and healthcare development.
(By: Tim Baltz)
