Migrant policy shift on English

ttrs

http://theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,21272456-2702,00.html

MUTUAL obligation is to become the Howard Government's new mantra on immigration, with migrants expected to learn English after they arrive in Australia.
Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration Teresa Gambaro will use a speech tonight to unveil a major shift in the Government's approach to migrants, saying that Australia always helps those in need but expects "those receiving assistance to contribute in return".

"The principle of the 'fair go' is a uniquely Australian value. A 'fair go', however, expects fair effort," Ms Gambaro will tell a symposium run by the Islamic Council of Victoria and the federal Government.
.............
Ms Gambaro, whose Italian parents came to Australia with scant English skills, says she can empathise with migrants.

"Learning English can be difficult - I know this from personal experience - but it is not an insurmountable hurdle, nor is it an unreasonable expectation. This is because English language ability is a passport to participation, a passport to prosperity."

fantergaruo

listening, speaking, writting, oh, i love english, but english should love me too!

sublimal

yes, yes, we all know the election is near. ;)