URGENT: RRC Polytech Announces Layoffs Due to Funding Cuts

UPDATE: Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) is set to lay off 44 staff members due to significant federal funding cuts, impacting vital language training programs for newcomers. The announcement was confirmed this afternoon, with 13 permanent staff losing their jobs and 31 term employees seeing their contracts expire at the end of March 2024.

This drastic measure will reduce the Centre for Newcomer Integration’s (CNI) annual capacity from over 6,700 seats to just 1,360. Approximately 1,400 newcomers will be affected, as essential stage two language training will cease to be offered after spring 2026. The CNI is a critical resource for newcomers to improve their language skills and integrate into Manitoba’s workforce.

“We understand how difficult and unsettling this is for everyone involved,” RRC Polytech stated in a release to staff. The college cited recent federal immigration decisions as a major factor behind this decision, highlighting that changes over the past two years have adversely impacted international students and the delivery of language courses.

RRC Polytech recently entered a three-year agreement with Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to provide language training, but notably, this agreement did not guarantee ongoing funding for vital stage two training. This training is essential for newcomers to develop intermediate language skills and pursue local career opportunities.

Kyle Ross, president of the Manitoba Government Employees Union, expressed his concerns over the layoffs, calling the situation “unfortunate.” He emphasized the broader implications on newcomers, stating, “When they don’t have the proper tools to integrate into the province, it’s really unfortunate. It’s going to hurt our workforce.”

The college’s future plans remain uncertain as they prepare for further program and service reductions after March 31, 2024. A spokesperson mentioned that if additional funding becomes available before spring, adjustments may be made to mitigate the impact of these layoffs.

As this situation develops, RRC Polytech will continue to monitor funding opportunities and keep staff and the community informed. A request for comment from the IRCC is pending, with a spokesperson indicating a response will be provided as soon as possible.

Stay tuned for updates on this urgent matter as the implications for Manitoba’s newcomers and workforce become clearer.