Citizenship and Immigration Minister Monte Solberg and his provincial counterparts from the eastern provinces are exploring ways to increase the numbers of immigrants in Atlantic Canada.
Solberg attended the Atlantic Immigration Ministers Forum with the four Maritime ministers responsible for immigration who want to enhance collaboration on immigration in the region.
Our region has tremendous advantages to offer newcomers and by working together with my colleagues in Atlantic Canada we can help ensure individuals are aware of those advantages,” said Nova Scotia Minister Carolyn Bolivar-Getson who hosted the forum.
The ministers also acknowledged the role of communities and immigration organizations in attracting and integrating newcomers, as well as the need for effective integration services in retaining immigrants.
Michael Currie, minister responsible for Prince Edward Island’s Business Development Inc., said the ministers are committed to raising awareness of the Atlantic provinces as a destination of choice for immigrants, increasing population and productivity, attracting investment and jobs, and working on skill shortages and labour market gaps.
Immigration has become extremely important to the Atlantic provinces, said Paul Shelley, minister of human resources, labour and employment for Newfoundland and Labrador. Even the smallest communities benefit from immigrants, who start businesses and who offer vital services, especially in the health-care sector, he said.
“This joint initiative speaks to the importance of immigration to this region,” Solberg agreed, adding he plans to work closely with the Atlantic ministers towards increasing the movement of newcomers to area and helping retain them in the region. |
