Canada hosted a meeting of all immigration ministers
Federal and regional officials met to discuss work strategy.
On Friday, November 17, Toronto hosted the Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration. Federal, provincial and territorial officials expressed support for a coordinated approach to immigration issues.
The main difficulties they identified are as follows:
- labor shortage;
- social infrastructure constraints;
- housing shortage;
- difficulties in obtaining settlement services.
The Ministers agreed that immigration is a key component of a country's fabric as it contributes to its diversity, economy and labor market needs. Ministers also agreed on the importance of supporting Canada's response to humanitarian crises and addressing the needs of vulnerable newcomers.
The main issues on the agenda were, of course, the new immigration plan and Mark Miller's "An Immigration System for Canada's Future" report. Provinces and territories shared their views on the future of Canada's immigration system and the challenges and opportunities facing their jurisdictions. In particular, provincial and territorial ministers called for an increased proportion of PNP (provincial nominations) in planning immigration levels.
Economic migration, namely the targeted selection of professionals in critical professions, was discussed separately. Ministers pledged to work in cooperation with the Forum of Ministers of the Labor Market on initiatives to recognize foreign credentials, especially in regulated professions such as health care.
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