Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
October 13, 2016

Minister Byrne Joins Federal Provincial Territorial Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration to Discuss Future Immigration Planning

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, joined federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for immigration yesterday in Winnipeg to talk about the future of immigration in Canada. Ministers discussed how immigration can support sustainable, long-term economic growth across the country while celebrating diversity and encouraging the inclusion of all newcomers to Canada.

“The meeting was an incredible opportunity to discuss key issues with Minister McCallum and other ministers responsible for immigration and share Newfoundland and Labrador's point of view. I, along with my colleagues in the Provincial Government, am focused more than ever on the demographic challenges facing our province and we are actively working with our federal, provincial, and territorial partners to support current residents and attract newcomers. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has the goal to welcome 1,600 immigrants annually to the province by 2022.”
- The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

Ministers discussed the need for a more responsive immigration system that attracts and retains global talent to deliver economic benefits to all jurisdictions. All ministers present agreed that immigration, including the number of permanent residents Canada accepts each year, plays an important role in helping build a welcoming and strong country.

Ministers affirmed a commitment to positive economic and social outcomes for all newcomers, including refugees.

Ministers agreed to work together to explore improvements to the settlement programs, including information and data sharing, to ensure newcomers are supported in their settlement and equipped to participate in the labour market. They discussed the need for processing improvements for economic immigration and a review to determine where there may be duplication of administration between federal and provincial governments. Provincial and territorial ministers expressed a desire for incremental growth in the Provincial Nominee Program allocations.

Ministers also discussed the importance of foreign qualifications recognition, as well as the role played by Francophone immigrants in contributing to the vitality of Francophone communities across the country.

Under the Canada-Quebec Accord Relating to Immigration and Temporary Admission of Aliens, Quebec fully assumes sole responsibility for establishing immigration levels and for the selection, francization and integration of immigrants. In areas under its responsibility, Quebec develops its policies and programs, legislates, regulates and sets its own standards.

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Media contact:

John Tompkins Director of Communications Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour 729-0753, 728-7762 jtompkins@gov.nl.ca

2016 10 13                              3:55 p.m.