Speaking at the Immigrants of Distinction Awards in Calgary, Monte Solberg, Canada’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration acknowledged the contribution of migrants in Canada’s economy.

Last year, Calgary welcomed some 11,000 immigrants – making it the fourth most popular destination for newcomers to Canada.

“The reality is that immigration isn’t about numbers – it’s about people. Canada, after all, is a country founded on two things – immigration and initiative,” Mr Solberg said.

“The personal stories of award recipients prove the importance of immigration more than any graph or chart ever could.”

Mr Solberg then described three of Canada’s Immigrants of Distinction.

Dr. Tadros – Dr. Tadros came to Canada from Egypt in 1966. Dr. Tadros has become one of Canada’s most creative and original bridge designers and was the mastermind behind the Confederation Bridge linking Prince Edward Island to the mainland. It turns out that Dr. Tadros is a bridge maker in more ways than one.

Mr. Abed Itani – Mr. Itani came to Canada with his parents from Lebanon in 1984, and settled in the Calgary area. In 1987, Mr. Itani launched Cidex Developments Ltd., building six homes in the first year. Since then, his company has helped build high-rise projects like Westgate Park, single-family homes in Lake at Heritage Pointe, and multifamily dwellings in Hidden Valley and Bridlewood. He has also helped organize a winter shelter for 92 families at the former Westgate Hotel.

Dr. Henk ter Keurs – Dr. ter Keurs is a native of Holland who joined the University of Calgary’s medical faculty in 1984. Since then, he has won numerous medical awards, and was awarded knighthood in the Order of the Dutch Lion by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands in 1999. His life-saving research into heart disease has been truly remarkable. And now, many of his former students are furthering the cause of heart research and treatment around the world.

21 Apr 2006