Around 35 nurses from the Philippines arrived at the Winnipeg airport Monday night excited to begin a new life in Canada.

The nurses were greeted by Assiniboine Regional Health Authority (ARHA) staff and Manitoba Nurses' Union representatives. The ARHA staff first met the nurses when they flew to the Philippines to conduct interviews.

The ARHA areas that will receive nurses include Russell, Hamiota, Shoal Lake, Minnedosa, Neepawa, Treherne, Killarney, Souris, Deloraine and Virden.

Temporary licenses will be granted by Manitoba's College of Registered Nurses to practice as graduate nurses. They are expected to write the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam in October.

The first few days in Canada will be spent adjusting to the time difference, settling into their accommodations, and touring the new communities. The nurses will take part in various orientation sessions over the next few weeks, preparing them for employment.