During Question Period in the Manitoba legislature earlier this week The Pas MLA Amanda Lathlin stated that Child and Families Services Newcomer Unit has been helping newcomer families since 2009 and it was an important resource to newcomers helping them to navigate their new life in Manitoba by integrating them into a new culture and connecting them with appropriate services and supports.

 

Lathlin said that it has become apparent that the minister has cut this important service and this was a shock to many within the newcomer community and the organizations that support them.

 

When Lathlin asked if the minister consulted with child family services authorities and newcomer organizations in the province prior to making the cut Minister of Families Heather Stefanson responded  by saying that they are very supportive of people who are moving to Manitoba and they are not making cuts to services for newcomers.

 

She added that that they will continue to work with stake holders to ensure that they do what is in the best interest of these families who are newcomers to Manitoba.

 

According to Lathlin, the Manitoba Association of Newcomer Serving Organizations of Winnipeg said they were concerned about this change and they are concerned that newcomer families won’t be supported very well.