Canada’s Immigration Ministers agree to raise immigrant intake

Canada’s Immigration Ministers have agreed to increase immigration levels in the coming years to help meet Canada’s labour market needs, address demographic changes, and generate long-term economic growth.

At a meeting of the Forum of Ministers responsible for Immigration (FMRI), it was agreed a multi-year approach to levels planning would provide increased certainty and help inform long-term planning.

“Canada has welcomed generations of newcomers who have contributed to Canada’s well-being, economic prosperity, competitiveness, and success as a nation. We are committed to ensuring that newcomers, including refugees, integrate and contribute fully to the Canadian economy and society,” said Canada’s Immigration Minister, Ahmed Hussen. “We continue to help newcomers find jobs and make lasting connections within their communities.”

The Ministers also agreed on the development of a federal-provincial-territorial plan to clarify how settlement priorities are set, and how information is shared among all orders of government.

“Provinces and territories continue to play an important role in building an immigration system that supports the diverse economic and labour market needs of all regions of Canada and that meets our international humanitarian obligations,” said Ian Wishart, Manitoba Minister of Education and Training and provincial-territorial co-chair of the FMRI. “We are committed to maintaining an open dialogue and working together to achieve our shared immigration objectives in building a stronger, more prosperous and united Canada.”.

Ministers also discussed the promotion of Francophone immigration to communities outside of Québec with the goal of increasing Francophone immigration.

Article published 19th September 2017