Earthquake survivor Huang Yaokun from Shifang city has bought a tape recorder and English books and practices on his speech every day. It is hard for a Chinese butcher already in his late 30s to pick up English but he is working hard in an effort to realize his dream of earning more in Canada.

"I've already submitted my visa application and if all goes smoothly, I can emigrate within three months," said Huang, who lost his job in a local slaughterhouse after the earthquake.

Joining Huang were his colleagues Liu Shibing and Huang Jun. They said their choices were limited as they can only work as butchers as they become middle-aged.