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 info@learningcentre.net

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

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: tourism@city-plap.com Phone: (204) 239-8326 City Website: www.city.portage-la-prairie.mb.ca Tourism Website: www.tourismportage.com

Aerial view of Portage la Prairie

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 drivers 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 Learners 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 youll pay for your Manitoba license. The license charge is approximately $20 and there is an approximate charge of $45 for your annual basic drivers 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 Manitobas 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

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. Manitobas Two-Part License A Manitoba drivers license has two parts. The Photo Card (Part 1) is renewed every four years. The Drivers License Certificate (Part 2) is renewed yearly and expires four months less one day after your birth date. Before you get your first drivers 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 drivers birth date and the date he or she turns 18 are displayed beneath the picture.

Photo Card Over the age of 18, the drivers birth date is displayed under the photograph.

The Drivers 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 Drivers 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.

Donor cards are available wherever you renew your drivers 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 Drivers License You may be fined and your drivers license suspended if you misuse a drivers license. Examples of misuse include, but are not necessarily limited to: x allowing someone else to use your drivers license; x misrepresenting yourself when applying for a drivers 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 drivers license or permit, or x holding at any time, more than one valid drivers 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

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 childs 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: info@rha-central.mb.ca 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: pharmacare@gov.mb.ca 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: info@abuseprevention.ca

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.
x x x x

Portage Learning & Literacy Centre Adult learning Computer instruction Literacy training EAL (English as an Additional Language)

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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: learningcentre@yahoo.com 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 StandardsWhat are Employment Standards? Manitobas 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: employmentstandards@gov.mb.ca 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 300254 Edmonton Street Winnipeg, MB R3C 3Y4 Phone: (204) 945-2476 Or Toll Free: 1-800-782-8403 Fax: (204) 945-6273 E-mail: rtb@gov.mb.ca 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) Ecole Arthur Meighen School (5 8) Fort La Reine School (K 6) La Verendrye School (K 8) North Memorial School (K 6 ) Victoria School (K 6 ) Westpark School (Independent K 8) Yellowquill School ( K- 8 )

857-3475 857-3405 857-7687 857-3478 857-4564 857-8746 857-3726 857-8714

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High Schools Portage Collegiate Institute (9 -12 ) Westpark High (Independent)

857-6843 857-3726

Portage Collegiate Institute (Grades 912) Child-Day Care Centers Portage Day Care Portage Ukrainian Nursery School Inc. Short-Stop Rec Club Sunshine Nursery School Trinity Nursery School Wee World Day Care Westend Day Care

857-6226 857-7485 857-9210 856-3011 857-5465 239-1200 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: info@learningcentre.net 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 x Job Shadowing x Skills Assessment x Career planning x Job search x Cover letters x Rsum development x Interview preparation x Life skills development Mature grade XII Courses Mature 12 diploma courses available in Mathematics, Computers, English, etc. Call (204) 857-6304 or info@learningcentre.net 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 Drivers 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
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 Canadas national symbol.

1. 1 cent coin

2. 5 cent coin 3. 10 cent coin

A five-cent piece is sometimes called a nickel. There is a picture of a beaver on a Canadian five-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.

4. 25 cent coin

The twenty-five cent piece is sometimes called a quarter. This coin has a picture of a caribou on it.

5. 1 dollar 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.

6.

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.

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 abusers 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: info@abuseprevention.ca Driving in Manitoba In order to drive legally in Manitoba, you must have a valid drivers license issued in Manitoba or from your country of origin. You need to apply for a Manitoba Drivers 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 drivers 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.

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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: -18.7C Average Temperature in July: +20C 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 Sobeys 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 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
City Hall

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: immigrate@city-plap.com

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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