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IMMIGRANT RESOURCE BOOK
Portage la Prairie, Manitoba
Immigrant Resource Centre
The Immigrant Resource Centre is an informational hub
where newcomers can find the services needed to have
meaningful and rewarding lives in a new community and
country, Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada.
Allow us to assist you in your transition.
Open from Monday - Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm
For further information contact:
(204)-857-6304
[email protected]
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Where Are You Now?.................................................... 4
Identification.................................................................. 5
Health ............................................................................. 9
Employment................................................................... 15
Housing.......................................................................... 18
Education and Childcare .............................................. 21
Portage Learning & Literacy Centre/Immigrant
Resource Centre............................................................ 23
Banking .......................................................................... 25
Laws in Manitoba .......................................................... 31
Income tax ..................................................................... 25
Weather in Manitoba ..................................................... 37
Services in Portage la Prairie....................................... 37
Portage la Prairie International Committee................. 39
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This guide has been designed for newcomers to Manitoba who
are living in Portage la Prairie; it is intended to give some
guidance to our new residents on some of the most common
questions or concerns that may arise.
WHERE ARE YOU NOW?
Region:
Site:
Canada
Land Area:
Elevation:
Central Plains.
84 Kilometres West of Winnipeg, on the Trans
Highway (1) in Central Manitoba.
24.03 Sq. Km.
261 Metres above sea level.
The 2006 Census showed that the population was estimated at
20,495 people (Male 10,010 and Female 10,480).
For Further Information, see the Portage la Prairie Visitor Guide
available at City Hall or contact the Manager of Tourism &
Special Projects at:
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (204) 239-8326
City Website: www.city.portage-la-prairie.mb.ca
Tourism Website: www.tourismportage.com
Aerial view of Portage la Prairie
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IDENTIFICATION
These should be your priorities as soon as you arrive:
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Your SIN is the authorized number for income tax purposes
under section 237 of the Income Tax Act and is used in certain
federal programs. You have to give it to anyone who prepares an
information slip (such as a T3, T4 or T5 slip) for you. Your SIN
card is not a piece of identification. It should be kept in a safe
place. For more information or to get an application for a SIN,
contact the nearest Service Canada office.
In Portage la Prairie, it is located at:
Government of Canada Building
1016 Saskatchewan Avenue East
Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3V2
Phone: (204) 239-3085
To work in Canada you must have a Social Insurance Number.
To apply for your SIN you require the following papers below
according to your status in Canada:
x Passport, Visa, Work Permit (temporary workers)
x Confirmation of Permanent Residence (new residents)
x Refugee Status Claim (refugees)
You have to show original documents or certified copies when
applying for your SIN card. Once this is done, you can start your
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job search by showing a copy of your application paper. Your
SIN card will usually take about a month to arrive in the mail.
Important: Every family member must apply for his/her SIN.
Drivers License
To drive in Manitoba, you must obtain a driver’s license for the
type of vehicle you intend to drive.
Many students take advantage of the High School Driver
Education Program. If you are not enrolling in that program and
this is your first license anywhere, the most efficient option is:
x Visit an Autopac broker with your identity documents and
register as a Manitoba Public Insurance customer. You must
meet identification requirements.
x Once you have done that, the agent will take your
photograph and record your signature.
x The agent will provide you with a document - called a
“Change Particulars” you will need to take the written
knowledge test which you must pass before you get a
Learner’s permit.
Later, you will also have to pass a road test. If you are successful
in both, you will be on your way to earning driving privileges.
Two fees make up the total you’ll pay for your Manitoba license.
The license charge is approximately $20 and there is an
approximate charge of $45 for your annual basic driver’s license
insurance premium. The premium can be reduced over time by
maintaining a good driving record and earning merits.
All new drivers should consider taking lessons from an approved
and accredited driving instructor.
Under Manitoba’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program,
you will be given a Learner's Permit after you pass the written
test, for a minimum of nine months. This is followed by an
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Intermediate license, issued for a minimum of 15 months and
after that comes a full license. Each stage puts specific
restrictions on the new driver to encourage quality, safe driving.
The GDL program does not discriminate by age, gender or
geographic location.
Manitoba’s Two-Part License
A Manitoba driver’s license has two parts. The Photo Card (Part
1) is renewed every four years. The Driver’s License Certificate
(Part 2) is renewed yearly and expires four months less one day
after your birth date. Before you get your first driver’s license,
you will be photographed at your Autopac agent or at a Driver
Licensing and Driver Testing Centre.
Note: Drivers under the age of 18 years are issued Photo Cards
that display the exact date of their 18th birthday in addition to
their birth date.
Photo
Card
Under the age of 18
the driver’s birth date
and the date he or she
turns 18 are displayed
beneath the picture.
Photo
Card
Over the age of 18,
the driver’s birth date
is displayed under the
photograph.
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The Driver’s License Certificate
(part 2) is marked as valid without
the License Photo Card for up to
30 days when a driver requires a
new License Photo Card
If a driver does not require a new
License Photo Card, the Driver’s
License Certificate (part 2) must be
carried at all times with the License
Photo Card
Donor Card
The third card many drivers carry with their license is the Donor
Card. By signing a donor card, you can indicate your wish to
donate organs or tissue for transplant, research or education.
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Donor cards are available wherever you renew your driver’s
license or Autopac policy. You can also download a donor card
from www.transplantmanitoba.ca.
Change of Name or Address
You are required to notify Manitoba Public Insurance or your
Autopac agent within 15 days of any change in your name or
address.
For more information, visit or call an Autopac agent or call
Manitoba Public Insurance at (204) 985-7000 in the Winnipeg
calling area or Toll-Free 1- (800) 665-2410.
Illegal Use of Driver’s License
You may be fined and your driver’s license suspended if you
misuse a driver’s license. Examples of misuse include, but are
not necessarily limited to:
x allowing someone else to use your driver’s license;
x misrepresenting yourself when applying for a driver’s license;
x using an outdated or otherwise invalid license;
x altering in any way; a registration card, a license, a motor
vehicle liability insurance card or a certificate of insurance;
x providing false identification when applying for a driver’s
license or permit, or
x holding at any time, more than one valid driver’s license.
HEALTH
Manitoba Health Card
As a landed immigrant, you are eligible to receive health care
coverage. Anyone who is a permanent resident of Canada can
go to see a doctor for free. This cost is paid by the federal
government. However, you are responsible for paying for your
own medicine. As soon as you arrive in Manitoba, you must get a
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Manitoba Health Insurance Card. This card will allow you to get
free medical and hospital
services.
1. You can pick up an
application for a
Manitoba Health Card
at City Hall (97
Saskatchewan Ave E)
in Portage la Prairie or
download it from this
location: http://
www.gov.mb.ca/
health/mhsip/
forms.html
2. Gather your passport
and all other original
Citizenship and
Immigration Canada
(CIC) documents
which have been
issued to you and your
children.
3. Present the
application and the
CIC documents to
either the Manitoba Health office or the nearest municipal
office. Your children under the age of 18 are included on
your Manitoba Health Card; any individuals over the age
of 18 must apply for their own card.
Along with landing papers, you should add for each one of your
children the following papers to get them enrolled in this benefit;
x Verification of Child Tax Benefits payments.
x A letter from the School verifying your child’s attendance.
If you need to see a Doctor, you must have your Manitoba Health
Card on you at the moment of your appointment. You also need
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your Manitoba Health Card if you have an appointment/
emergency at the hospital or purchasing a prescription.
To apply in Winnipeg:
300 Carlton Street
Winnipeg, MB R3B 3M9
Phone: (204) 786-7101 Fax: (204) 783-2171
You must get informed about what is and what is not covered by
the Manitoba Health Card. Here are some of the costs not
covered by the Manitoba Health Card:
x Dentist or dental treatments
x Eye glasses and medication
x Ambulance
x Private nursing
x Cosmetic or plastic surgery
x Chiropractic services
Some employers have benefit packages that include these
benefits, such as a dental plan, vision care or prescriptions.
Ambulance Services
Manitoba Health does not insure ambulance services. It is
advisable to have an external insurance provider such as Blue
Cross, Voyager, CAA or a company of your choice so that if an
emergency arises requiring an ambulance you will be covered.
What is An Emergency?
Before going to the hospital or calling for an ambulance, you
must know there are some regulations due to high demand of
patients. It is not always easy to know if a medical problem
needs emergency care.
In some situations, emergency medical treatment is a must.
Other conditions are best dealt with by your doctor or at the local
health clinic.
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This is how it works: If you decide to go to the hospital, when you
arrive a nurse will speak with you and decide the urgency and
level of care you need. Patients are seen by a doctor in order of
need, not time of arrival. Arriving by ambulance does not
necessarily mean you will be seen sooner than other patients.
How long you wait will depend on:
x
x
x
How urgently you require the care.
How urgently others in the emergency room need care.
How busy the emergency room is when you arrive.
Here is a general guide to help you decide where to go or
call:
1. Emergency
Heart attack, major trauma, severe head injury, amputation,
severe difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, severe
bleeding.
2. Urgent
Head injury but still awake, deep cut, a foreign body in the
ears or eyes, high fever in an infant or toddler, chest pain (not
related to a known heart condition) or signs of serious
infection.
3. Less urgent
Possible fracture/sprain, back pain, skin/wound infection,
headaches (migraines).
4. Not urgent
Colds, minors cuts, bites, sore throat, sinus problems.
If you are not sure about the emergency, call Health Links and
ask to speak to a registered nurse. Health Links is a 24-hour, 7days a week telephone information service.
Health Links in Winnipeg (204) 788-8200
Health Links Toll-free 1-888-315-9257
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If you think it is an emergency or urgent, do not
hesitate! Call 911
Regional Health Authority
Regional Health Authority Central Manitoba Inc.
180 Centennaire Drive, Southport, MB R0H 1N0
Phone: 1-800-RHA(742)-6509
Phone: (204) 428-2720
Fax: (204) 428-2779
e-mail: [email protected]
Portage District General Hospital - (204) 239-2211
Portage Clinic - (204) 857-3445
Portage Clinic
Located north of the hospital at 140- 9th Street Southeast, it has
14 doctors on staff. If you need to see a doctor call the clinic at
(204) 857-3445.
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Portage Walk-in Clinic
It is located at 59 Royal Road North. The Portage Walk-in Clinic
receives patients without an appointment. It would be advisable
to go to this clinic if it is not an emergency or to get an
assessment done to evaluate the kind of service you need.
Hours of Operation are:
Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Manitoba PharmaCare Program
Manitoba PharmaCare Program is a benefit that helps families
with low income to be able to purchase medications, drugs and
prescriptions when the cost is not affordable.
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If your prescription exceeds your deductible, you are eligible to
receive the benefits of the program.
Your deductible is
calculated according to your family annual income. You can get
this information and the way to calculate your deductible on the
website. Contact the program at:
Manitoba Heath Provincial Drug Programs
Phone: (204) 786-7141
Or toll-free 1-800-297-8099
E-mail: [email protected]
Abuse
Those who are at Risk of Abuse: if you are concerned about
someone you think is being abused or you are being abused call
this number in Portage la Prairie:
The Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre
Box 1541, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3P1
Phone: (204) 239-5233 (crisis Line)
Phone: (204) 239-5234 (information/administrative)
Email: [email protected]
EMPLOYMENT
Assessment
First of all, you need to assess your English level. Depending on
how your communication skills in English are, you have to
consider the type of job you will be applying for. Your English
abilities (spoken and written), as well as the skills you possess
for the job, will determine if you qualify for it. The Portage
Learning & Literacy Centre can help you assess your English
levels and abilities.
Portage Learning & Literacy Centre
Adult learning
Computer instruction
Literacy training
EAL (English as an Additional Language)
x
x
x
x
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x
Employment readiness (program to help you prepare for the
job)
x Onsite day care (only for students with children and is free)
Located at:
110 Saskatchewan Avenue West
Phone: (204) 857-6304
Fax: (204) 857-6358
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.learningcentre.net
How to find a job
x
x
x
x
x
x
Newspaper – Job vacancies are advertised in the classified
section of the local newspaper.
Job Bank – http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/
Internet Research – Most companies advertise online and
have a website.
Direct Contact - You can approach an employer taking your
resume or picking up an application form to fill out.
Portage Learning and Literacy Centre - There are job
postings and a guide of jobs by category from local
employers continuously updated.
Employment Centre, 1016 Saskatchewan Avenue East
Phone: (204) 239-3085
Employment Standards—What are Employment Standards?
Manitoba’s Employment Standards Branch helps employees and
employers to define and protect their rights and responsibilities in
the workplace.
Branch staff can answer questions, help clarify the intent of the
provincial labour legislation and investigate workplace disputes to
help resolve labour issues.
Common employment standards issues include minimum wage,
overtime, general holidays, vacation and ending employment.
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For more information regarding workplace issues:
Phone: (204) 945-3352
Or Toll Free: 1-800-821-4307
Fax: (204) 948-3046
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.manitoba.ca/labour/standards
Can I belong to a union?
Joining a union is a basic democratic right in Canada that is
protected by law. Under federal and provincial labour laws,
workers have the right to join a union of their choice. It is your
decision and it is illegal for your employer to try to interfere with
it. Employers, like unions, are allowed to express their opinion
about an organizing drive, but they are not allowed to use
"coercion, intimidation, threats, promises, or undue influence."
Harassment
Definition of Harassment
Under the law, harassment is defined as a course of abusive and
unwelcome conduct or comment that is directed at individuals
because of a group to which they belong or appear to belong.
Harassment is a violation of the Manitoba Human Rights Code.
There are twelve grounds on which harassment is illegal. They
include
x age, ancestry
x ethnic background or origin
x gender-determined characteristics
x marital or family status
x nationality
x physical or mental disability
x political belief
x association or activity
x sex
x sexual orientation
x and source of income
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HOUSING
Application
The first step is to find a place to live. Normally, you can get the
application form from the resident managers.
Why a housing application?
This is a document intended to register all your personal
information, such as your name, work place, monthly income,
etc.
If your application is accepted, a tenancy agreement is signed
containing information about the rent amount and living
arrangements. Before signing a contract, please consider the
following:
x What is included (utilities such as gas, hydro, water, etc)?
x If parking is included?
x If pets (cat, dog, etc) are allowed?
x If smoking is permitted?
x The date for which rent is due.
Condition report
You should sign a condition report before moving in. This is a
report that shows the current condition of all rooms, carpet, walls,
appliances, etc. Before you move in, it is advisable to inspect the
residence for damage or inconsistencies. Repairs should be
carried out if there are damages.
Before signing, you should know the period of time that you are
expected to rent the property for. Normally, a lease is for a one
year term and you cannot leave the residence and stop paying
the rent. A contract will be signed and should be respected by
both the landlord and yourself for the given period of time.
If this agreement is not respected by either of the sides (landlord
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or tenant), either has the right to terminate the agreement.
Make sure you obtain a receipt for the payment you make every
month.
After you have lived there for a period of time and should you
decide you want to move out, you cannot break the lease
agreement. There is a way you can move out and not break the
lease agreement. It is called “sublet”. Someone has to be found
to take care of the lease for the rest of the term. You must inform
your resident manager and get their approval.
Basic definitions you should know about housing
Tenant: The person who lives in a place that is rented and is
responsible to keep the residence in the same condition as when
it was first moved in.
Landlord: The person who owns the building and rents it out to
others.
Resident Manager: The person you might have to deal with,
who is hired by the Landlord (owner), to take care of the building
and deal with tenants. Usually it is the resident manager who
cleans, repairs and works on most issues related to the property.
Rent: This is the amount of money you have to pay to the
landlord or resident manager every month to allow you to live in
the residence. It is advisable to pay by cheque as this is a way to
keep record of your payments.
Pro-rated rent: This means that if you move into a place in the
middle of the month, you only need to pay for the number of days
that you occupy the residence, (not the whole month). (If you
move in on the 15th of the month you only have to pay 15 days
rent). – Delete sentence – months have different number of days.
Security deposit: This is the money paid before taking
possession of a residence. It is a deposit intended to repair any
damages caused to the residence while living there. This means
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that if you move, you have to leave the residence in the same
condition it was when you moved in. If not, the landlord takes that
money and uses it to repair or replace any damages caused
during the period you have lived there. If you leave the place
and want your security deposit back, clean the residence
thoroughly and give proper notice in writing, usually a minimum
30 days in advance.
If you have any problem with your landlord, this is the
address to find help.
Residential Tenancies Branch
300–254 Edmonton Street
Winnipeg, MB R3C 3Y4
Phone: (204) 945-2476
Or Toll Free: 1-800-782-8403
Fax: (204) 945-6273
E-mail: [email protected]
To get a complete listing of rental units in Portage la Prairie,
contact the Settlement Services Office at the Portage Learning
and Literacy Centre.
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If you are buying, building or renovating a house, there are
regulations, laws and fees that you must be aware of. You should
be informed about such things. There is a reliable source of
information in the Consumer Guide for Newcomers in Manitoba
Second Edition at http://www.consumermanitoba.ca/guide/
guide.html
EDUCATION & CHILDCARE
Portage la Prairie Local Complement of Schools
Seven elementary schools
Five junior high schools
Two high schools (one private)
One French Immersion Program from K - 9
All the public schools are administered by Portage la Prairie
School Division. To get more information about every school and
program, contact the Portage la Prairie School Division:
Portage la Prairie School Division
Phone: (204) 857-8756
Website: www.plpsd.mb.ca
Kindergarten to Grade 4 or higher
Ecole Crescentview School (K – 4)
857-3475
Ecole Arthur Meighen School (5 – 8)
857-3405
Fort La Reine School (K – 6)
857-7687
La Verendrye School (K – 8)
857-3478
North Memorial School (K – 6 )
857-4564
Victoria School (K – 6 )
857-8746
Westpark School (Independent K – 8)
857-3726
Yellowquill School ( K- 8 )
857-8714
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High Schools
Portage Collegiate Institute (9 -12 )
Westpark High (Independent)
857-6843
857-3726
Portage Collegiate Institute (Grades 9—12)
Child-Day Care Centers
Portage Day Care
857-6226
Portage Ukrainian Nursery School Inc.
857-7485
Short-Stop Rec Club
857-9210
Sunshine Nursery School
856-3011
Trinity Nursery School
857-5465
Wee World Day Care
239-1200
Westend Day Care
857-8910
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Red River College: offers a variety of part-time courses and fulltime day programs. It is located at:
Southport Centre
Phone: (204) 428-6322
Website: http://rrc.ca/index.php?pid=410
Campus Manitoba: Southport Campus-Campus Manitoba is a
collaborative program of the University of Manitoba, University of
Winnipeg and Brandon University. The Program offers a
selection of University Level Arts, Sciences and Education.
To see courses offered online go to: www.campusmanitoba.com
Qualifications Recognition: For assistance with academic and
professional credential recognition, contact the Settlement
Services Coordinator at the Portage Learning & Literacy Centre.
PORTAGE LEARNING & LITERACY CENTRE /
IMMIGRANT RESOURCE CENTRE
110 Saskatchewan Avenue West
Portage La Prairie, MB R1N 0M1
Phone: (204) 857-6304
Fax: (204) 857-3358
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.learningcentre.net
Portage Learning & Literacy Centre (PLLC)
The Portage Learning & Literacy Centre (PLLC) provides a
continuum of learning for adults focused on the skills and
education needed for personal growth and improved employment
opportunities. The PLLC encourages people to set employment
goals before selecting their programs. The PLLC board, staff and
volunteers strive to aid people in reducing the financial, social
and educational barriers faced in achieving their goals. With this
commitment in mind, the PLLC actively creates a learning
environment, which supports each person as they find their
solutions.
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Literacy
Adult literacy: stages 1-2-3
Nine essential skills
x Reading test
x Document use
x Numeracy
x Writing
x Speaking
x Thinking skills
x Computer skills
x Working with others
x Continuous learning
Employment programs / Employment readiness
Job Shadowing
Skills Assessment
Career planning
Job search
Cover letters
Résumé development
Interview preparation
Life skills development
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Mature grade XII Courses
Mature 12 diploma courses available in Mathematics,
Computers, English, etc.
Call (204) 857-6304 or
[email protected] for more details.
Important:
The above services are free of charge. Some of the classes such
as the computer courses require some instruction materials. You
may have to pay a minimum fee to get the instruction materials.
The Portage Learning & Literacy Centre provides onsite daycare.
Immigrant Resource Centre/Settlement Services
It is Located on the 2nd floor of the PLLC can assist you with:
x English as an Additional Language (EAL) Classes/Language
Training, Tutors
x Housing
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x Furnishing
x Employment
x Assistance with forms and applications for Provincial Nominee
x
x
x
x
x
Program, Permanent Residency, etc.
Academic Credentials Assessment
Resume Preparation
Education
Recreation
Community Resources
BANKING
Why open a Bank Account?
x
x
x
x
x
x
To cash or write a cheque
To use Bank Machines/ATM (automated teller machine)
It is safer than keeping money at home
It will improve your chances to obtain a loan in the future
To earn interest on your savings
The need to start to build your credit history
Where can I open my bank account?
There are major financial institutions (Banks and Credit Unions)
in Portage la Prairie. It is important to shop around and compare
the services offered before deciding where to open a bank
account. Some institutions have staff from different countries if
you do not speak fluently in English. It would be advisable to try
to talk to someone in your language.
Types of bank accounts
There are 3 types of bank accounts:
x Savings
x Chequing
x Combination
Before opening a Bank Account, a person must present 2 pieces
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of Identification (ID), such as your Manitoba Health Card,
Manitoba Driver’s License, Immigrations papers, Canadian
Citizenship Card, Permanent Residence Card (PRC), or Valid
Passport.
Savings Account: This is exclusively for saving. Cheques
cannot be written on this account.
Chequing Account: This allows you to write cheques. This
account is advisable for your daily banking needs. The interest
rate paid on this account is usually lower than on a savings
account and some do not pay any interest.
Combination Account: It is suitable when you want to save
money and write cheques as well. It offers a lower interest rate
than a savings account.
Bank Vocabulary
Cheque: A written order of payment taken out of your bank
account to pay for something.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM): Allows you to withdraw/
deposit money and pay bills 24 hours a day
Deposit: Putting money in your Bank Account either by cash,
cheque, ATM or direct deposit.
Interest: It is a fee you pay for bank services (such as loans or
credit cards) or is a bonus earned on specific accounts for having
money saved.
Transaction: Money is put into or taken out of your bank
account.
Withdrawal: Money is taken out of an account.
Branch: The institution location. Institutions have different
locations throughout most cities. These are called Branches.
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Identification (ID): A legal document with information showing
your name to prove who one is.
Signature card: A card on which you writes a sample signature.
The bank keeps it on file.
Passbook: This booklet lists the transaction history of your bank
account.
Monthly Statement: A paper that confirms all your bank
transactions for the previous month.
Account agreement: Explains the rules for using your bank
account.
Debit Card: In most stores you can use a bank card. If used to
pay at a store, the money spent is taken out of your bank
account immediately without the need to carry cash.
PIN (Personal Identification Number): A secret number, known
only by yourself that is used each time you need access to the
bank account through an Instant Teller Machine (ATM) or while
using your debit card.
NFS Fee (Non-Sufficient Funds): A fee financial institutions
charges you for insufficiently not having enough money to cover
a cheque that has been written.
Teller: The service provider behind the counter who helps
customers at the financial institutions.
Endorse: A signature that is put on the back of a cheque.
Holds: The financial institution does not allow you to cash the
cheque as soon as it is deposited unless you have sufficient
funds in your account.
Service Charge: A fee charged for using an account.
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On-line Banking: A method to carry out banking through the
Internet. You are able to see all deposits, withdrawals and
financial information (transactions), as well as perform and make
transfers between accounts, add bill payment companies, etc. A
PIN will be supplied by most financial institutions to obtain
access to this information online.
Credit Card: A Visa or MasterCard issued by a financial
institution in your name. If your credit rating permits, the
institution will grant you one. Every institution offers different
types of credit card products as well as varying interest rates
associated with each card type.
Protect your PIN and your Personal Information:
Never give a PIN, SIN, bank account number or date of birth to
anyone over the phone for whatever reason.
x If you have difficulty using an ATM, do not accept assistance
from the person behind. Go into the financial institution and
ask for help.
x If you have to provide a PIN or account number at the
payphone, make sure no one can see the information being
entered. Be very
careful to read any
document
before
signing it.
x Familiarize
yourself
with the Canadian
Currency
before
beginning to use it.
For any transaction
made, be sure it is
the correct money
invested or received.
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Canadian Currency
Now, one has to get familiar with the Canadian Currency. Here is
a clear picture of what the bills look like.
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Canadian Coins
1.
1 cent coin
The one cent coin is sometimes called a
penny. It is made out of copper? Canadian one-cent coins have two maple
leaves on them. The maple leaf is Canada’s national symbol.
A five-cent piece is sometimes called a
nickel. There is a picture of a beaver on
a Canadian five-cent coin.
2.
5 cent coin
3.
10 cent coin
A ten-cent piece is sometimes called a
dime. There is a picture of a sailboat
called the Bluenose on the Canadian
ten-cent piece.
The twenty-five cent piece is sometimes
called a quarter. This coin has a picture
of a caribou on it.
4.
25 cent coin
A Canadian one dollar coin is gold in
color. It is often called a “loonie” as a
nickname, because it has a picture of a
bird called a loon on it.
5.
1 dollar coin
The two dollar coin is Canada's newest
coin. It has two colors. The outside color
is silver and the inside color is gold.
There is a picture of a polar bear on the
two dollar coin. A “toonie” is a nickname
of the two dollar coin.
6.
2 dollar coin
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LAWS IN MANITOBA
Alcohol
The legal age for drinking alcohol is 18. It is illegal to sell or serve
alcohol to minors (anyone under the age of 18) in bars,
restaurants and other public places.
It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places such as streets or
parks. You may drink in your own home or your own property. It
is equally illegal to drink alcohol in your vehicle.
It is illegal to drink and drive. The police are allowed to request
for a breath test (called a breathalyser) of drivers suspected of
drinking and driving. Persons caught driving a vehicle with a
blood alcohol level over the allowed limit (Blood Alcohol
Concentration of over 0.08) can lose their license and the right to
drive as well for three months or longer and have their vehicle
taken away. Anyone caught driving with a suspended license, will
have their vehicle taken away.
Smoking
In Manitoba, people purchasing cigarettes
must be 18 years old or older. Smoking is
not allowed in government offices or public
buildings such as schools, banks, stores
and restaurants.
Relationships
The Child and Family Services Act requires child and family
services agencies and the police to take action to protect
children. A child in need of protection is one whose life, health or
emotional well-being is endangered by the actions or omissions
of a person.
If you would like more information on acceptable disciplinary
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practices, speak to a counsellor at the Immigration Office.
It is advised to not leave children at home alone unless they are
12 years old. Babysitters must be at least 12 years old.
Manitoba has a zero tolerance policy towards domestic abuse.
Violence in the home against spouses or children is a crime.
It is illegal to have sexual relations with a minor under the age of
14 or to ask for the services of a prostitute.
Spousal or Partner Abuse
Spousal or partner abuse usually consists of violence, threats of
violence; including physical, sexual, emotional or psychological
abuse. These wrongful acts are committed against a person by
his or her spouse, common-law partner, boyfriend, girlfriend or
other intimate partner, past or present. In an abusive relationship,
the abused person usually fears the abuser (or at least the
abuser’s behaviour) and often changes his or her own behaviour,
giving up the right to be a full and equal partner in the
relationship to keep the peace.
Under the law, no one has the right to abuse another.
Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre
In Portage la Prairie, the Portage Family Abuse Prevention
Centre is a community organization dedicated to Prevention,
intervention and Advocacy for families experiencing abuse and
violence.
The Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre offers the following
Residential and Non-Residential Services:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Intake & Assessment
Referral services
Advocacy
Safety Planning
Safe Shelter
Transportation
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x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Basic Life Skills
Counselling
Domestic Violence Education
Protection Orders
Criminal Injuries Applications
Child Assessment
24 hour Crisis line (1-877-977-0007)
Crisis counselling
911 Phones
Information and support to friends and families
Healthy Relationships Groups
Parenting /Teen / Children After Violence Groups
Community Service / Education Coordination
For more information contact:
Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre
PO Box 1541
Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3P1
In Portage la Prairie phone: (204) 239-5233
Or Toll Free: 1-877-977-0007
Email: [email protected]
Driving in Manitoba
In order to drive legally in Manitoba, you must have a valid
driver’s license issued in Manitoba or from your country of origin.
You need to apply for a Manitoba Driver’s License as soon as
possible upon arrival. Legally you have three months to apply.
You must carry your license at all times when driving. If caught
driving without a license, you will be fined.
Speed Limits
Speeding is still a major factor contributing to
traffic deaths. Here's a look at some speed
limits that may not be posted, but are
definitely enforced.
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In the city, you should travel at no more than 50 km/hr unless
otherwise posted. On the highway, the speed limit is 100 km/hr
unless otherwise posted.
However, these speed limits are intended for ideal conditions.
Always lower your speed in bad weather or poor road conditions.
The 30 km/h limit isn't usually posted in back lanes, and parking
lots don't often advertise a maximum speed. However, the law
says any speed that endangers people, property or safety is
prohibited.
School zones also fall into that category. When kids are on or
near the roadway, the law says a driver must use a speed that is
reasonable and prudent for the conditions. This means always
keep the safety of others in mind when driving.
Insurance
The Manitoba Government sets vehicle insurance rates and it is
called MPI (Manitoba Public Insurance). You can purchase
insurance from different MPI agencies, but the rates remain the
same. In Manitoba, you will receive “merits” for a good driving
record and lose merits for
a poor driving record.
Your merits status will
influence the amount you
will pay for vehicle
insurance. You can get
up to 25% discounted
from your car insurance
premium if you have
merits. To receive your merits standing in Manitoba, you will
need two documents.
x A letter from your insurance company stating that you have
had no claims.
x A driver’s abstract from the government of your former
country verifying your driving record.
Be careful to insure your vehicle for the purpose it is to be used
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for. For example, if you are going to use the vehicle for work
purposes, it must say so on your insurance policy in order for you
to have coverage while you drive to work and while you are
working.
Buying a car
All vehicles in Manitoba must have a valid safety inspection
certificate. The safety certificate is valid for two years from the
date of issue and states that the condition of a car has been
brought to a set standard at the time of issue. Just because a
safety certificate is valid, does not mean a vehicle is safe to
drive. If you are purchasing a vehicle near the expiry of the safety
certificate, the condition of the vehicle may have deteriorated to
an unsafe condition. It is advisable to get a mechanic to check
the condition of any vehicle before purchasing it.
Once the vehicle has been registered with a valid safety
certificate, you do not have to have the vehicle re-inspected for
as long as you own it.
When you buy a new car from a dealership, it will have a valid
safety certificate and the taxes will be paid to the dealership.
When buying a used vehicle from a dealership, it will usually
have a safety certificate included.
When buying a car from a private individual, be sure to ask
whether the vehicle has a valid safety certificate. The tax will be
paid on the used vehicle when it is registered. Vehicles are
registered through an insurance agent.
INCOME TAX
Taxes
Every year Canadians needs to file an income tax return with the
Canadian government. The Canada tax system is intended to
pay for roads, public utilities, education, health care, economic
development, cultural activities, defense, law enforcement and
many other services and programs.
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Any person who is employed and collects a pay cheque must
submit an income tax return each year. Usually every person in
the family over the age of 18 submits an income tax return to
receive Goods and Services Tax (GST) rebate and child tax
credit benefits from the government if a person qualifies.
Generally, a tax return has to be filed on or before April 30 each
year. It is advisable to start the process as early as possible
every year to make sure the return is completed in time. Ensure
that you receive all your slips before finalizing everything.
There are two ways that you can prepare the income tax return:
x Doing it oneself.
x Pay an Accountant or a Bookkeeper to prepare it.
To prepare the income tax return yourself, you can pick up the
free booklet and form at the post office. If a professional is
desired to prepare the return, look in the phone book for an
Accountant, Bookkeeper, or under income tax return preparation
in the yellow pages in the phone book.
For further assistance to prepare to file a tax return, please
contact:
Service Canada
1016 Saskatchewan Avenue E
Portage la Prairie, MB
Phone: (204) 239-8427.
The Canadian Government website is quite helpful and has all
that is needed regarding this matter.
Website: www.cra-arc.gc.ca
PST - Provincial Sales Tax
The Provincial Sales Tax (PST) is a 7 per cent tax applied to the
retail sale or rental of most goods and certain services in
Manitoba. The tax is calculated on the selling price, before the
GST (Good and Services Tax) is applied.
36
GST-Goods and Services Tax
A Canadian tax that is payable on most goods and services
(imported and domestic) at the rate of 5%.
Prices are usually without taxes and are applied to the goods and
services at the moment of purchasing. If you see a product you
like to purchase, notice that taxes are not included and must be
added when paying.
WEATHER IN MANITOBA
Average Temperature in January: -18.7°C
Average Temperature in July: +20°C
Frost Free Days: 131
Annual Precipitation: 467.2mm/yr
In cold weather (temperatures below 0°
Celsius) do not leave any skin
uncovered. Exposing skin in freezing
temperatures could cause frostbite that
is especially uncomfortable and painful
and if left untreated, will require
medical treatment.
SERVICES IN PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE
Canada Post
The post office in Portage la Prairie has two locations:
Canada Post
9 Saskatchewan Avenue West
Avenue Portage la Prairie
Phone: (204) 857-5890
Sobey’s
2100 Saskatchewan
Portage la Prairie
Phone: (204) 857-4700
Manitoba Hydro
(District Office) Phone: (204) 857-7039
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City Hall
97 Saskatchewan Ave E.
Main Line: City Hall, (204) 239-8337
Fire Department
Emergencies: 911
General Inquiries: (204) 239-8340
City Hall
Police
Emergencies: 911
General Inquiries: (204) 857-4445
Telephone Services
There are two companies operating in Portage la Prairie:
Shaw: (204) 857-6623
MTS: (204) 857-4380
These two companies provide communication services to the
City of Portage la Prairie. MTS currently offers internet, cell
phone and landline telephone services, while Shaw offers
internet, cable TV and landline telephone services.
To make a phone call using a payphone in the local area, you
must insert 50 cents. A $1.00 coin must be used when calling a
cell phone. To place a long distance phone call within Manitoba,
dial 1-204 plus the number you are trying to reach. For operator
Services/Directory Assistance dial 411. There is a charge for this
service.
For other services in Portage la Prairie, please see the Portage
la Prairie Visitor Guide or visit their websites at:
City of Portage la Prairie
Website: www.city.portage-la-prairie.mb.ca
Portage la Prairie Tourism
Website: www.tourismportage.com
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Portage la Prairie International Committee
Mission Statement:
The Purpose of the Portage la Prairie International Committee is
to encourage and support immigration in the City and Rural
Municipalities of Portage la Prairie.
The Portage la Prairie International Committee is made up of a
cross section of community members:
Mayor of the City of Portage la Prairie
City Council Member
Rural Municipality Representative
Portage la Prairie School Division Representative
Chamber of Commerce Representative
Regional Health Authority Representative
Central Manitoba Literacy Representative
Portage la Prairie Ministerial Association Representative
2 Members at Large
For further information please contact:
Manager of Tourism & Special Projects
City of Portage la Prairie
Ph: 204-239-8326
Fax: 204-239-1532
Email: [email protected]
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For more information on immigration to Portage la Prairie
For more information on immigration to Portage la Prairie
please visit our website at
please visit our website at
www.immigrateportagelaprairie.com
www.immigrateportagelaprairie.com