For Immediate Release: July 5, 2025

Memorandum of Understanding Signed Between Cape Breton County Economic Development Authority (RDA) and the Municipality of Victoria County for Regional Immigration Navigator (Cape Breton, NS): 

The Cape Breton Economic Development Authority (CBCEDA) is pleased to announce the addition of the Municipality of Victoria County to the Cape Breton Newcomers Program.  Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), took place during yesterday’s council meeting in Victoria County, officially declaring intentions to work in collaboration for the positive advancement and growth on Cape Breton Island.  

A Newcomer, as defined by CBCEDA, is an individual from other Countries outside of Canada, an individual from other Provinces of Canada outside of Nova Scotia, an individual from mainland Nova Scotia, and a Cape Breton Expatriate.  In addition to settlement services, the Navigator meets with immigrants in the local community to determine if these individuals meet the criteria for the Community Identified Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP).

Through a partnership with Nova Scotia Office of Immigration, CBCEDA, as the mandated organization, is responsible for providing letters of identity to qualified applicants of the Community Identified Stream of the NSNP. The Community Identified Stream of the NSNP is aimed at individuals who are employable, have strong established connections  to a Nova Scotia community and can contribute to the labour market and economic of a specific community.

CBCEDA and the Municipality of Victoria County will continue to work in full cooperation to foster welcoming communities and retention of newcomers within the region.   "CBCEDA is pleased to expand Navigator services to the Municipality of Victoria County, the goal of this partnership is to continue to provide a central location where both newcomers and stakeholders in the region can obtain information related to immigration and settlement needs," said Eileen Lannon-Oldford, CEO of Cape Breton County Economic Development Authority.

The Navigator position for Newcomers within Cape Breton Regional Municipality will now include service to the Municipality of Victoria County which currently does not fall under a Regional Development Authority (RDA).  Due to this circumstance a formal Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Municipality of Victoria County.  

"Victoria County is very pleased to be a partner with the Cape Breton County Economic Development Authority in supporting immigration and economic development programs on Cape Breton Island.  While Victoria County has been a sponsoring body for the Nova Scotia Nominee Program, Community Identified Stream applicants for several years, we look forward to expanding that support with CBCEDA and the services provided to the applicants by the Newcomers Navigator's position."  Bruce J. Morrison, Warden of Victoria County noted. 

The Cape Breton County Economic Development Authority’s mandate is to promote and facilitate economic development including community-based and business-based development through the promotion and implementation of strategic priorities; and to create a cooperative environment supporting economic stability and growth.

For further information, please contact:

Eileen Lannon Oldford                                

Chief Executive Officer, CBCEDA                                       

Phone: (902) 562-2201 / (902) 371-5530

Sandy Hudson              

Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Victoria County     

Phone: (902) 295-3660