Enhancing Canada’s Immigration System: Federal-Provincial-Territorial Forum of Ministers

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News Release Overview

The Federal, Provincial, and Territorial (FPT) Forum of Ministers responsible for Immigration (FMRI) gathered to evaluate Canada’s immigration framework. The Ministers pledged to collaborate on the Vision Action Plan for 2016-2019, focusing on a swift, adaptable, and efficient economic immigration system, strategic immigration level planning, and robust settlement and integration support for newcomers. These efforts aim to enhance Canada’s reputation as a diverse and inclusive nation.

Key Discussions and Agreements

Managing Asylum Seeker Influx

The Ministers emphasized the necessity of a unified approach to manage the increase in asylum seekers, ensuring orderly migration and planning while safeguarding Canada’s borders and citizens’ security. Although Canada remains open to newcomers, individuals are encouraged to use legal channels to enter the country, as irregular means pose significant risks and do not guarantee permanent residence.

Multi-Year Immigration Levels Planning

Consensus was reached on the importance of planning immigration levels over multiple years to meet labor market demands, address demographic shifts, and foster economic growth. This strategy offers more predictability and aids long-term planning.

Supporting Newcomer Settlement

Collaboration across government levels is crucial for delivering high-quality settlement services. Ministers committed to strengthening partnerships and exploring innovative collaboration models, aiming to develop a comprehensive federal-provincial-territorial plan for setting settlement priorities and information sharing.

Francophone Immigration Promotion

Efforts are ongoing to boost Francophone immigration to regions outside Québec. Building on progress made earlier this year, further discussions with Francophonie ministers are scheduled for 2018 in Ontario.

Quebec’s Unique Position

As requested by Quebec, the province holds observer status at the FPT Ministers’ Table. Under the Canada-Québec Accord, Quebec independently manages its immigration levels, selection, francization, and integration, setting its policies and standards.

Ministerial Quotes

“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. We continue to help newcomers find jobs and make lasting connections within their communities.” – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

“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. 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.” – Ian Wishart, Manitoba Minister of Education and Training

Media Contacts

For Media Only

Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca

Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Executive Council
Government of Manitoba
204-945-1494

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FAQ

What is the FPT Forum of Ministers responsible for Immigration?

The FPT Forum is a collaborative platform where federal, provincial, and territorial ministers convene to discuss and strategize on immigration policies and initiatives for Canada.

Why is multi-year immigration levels planning important?

This approach provides stability and predictability, allowing for more effective long-term planning to meet labor market needs and support economic growth.

How does Canada manage the influx of asylum seekers?

Canada emphasizes the use of legal entry channels for asylum seekers and ensures that migration is orderly, safeguarding the country’s security while respecting international obligations.

What role does Quebec play in Canada’s immigration system?

Under the Canada-Québec Accord, Quebec independently determines its immigration policies, focusing on selection, francization, and integration of immigrants.

How is Francophone immigration being promoted in Canada?

Efforts include encouraging Francophone immigration to areas outside Québec, with ongoing discussions to assess and enhance these initiatives.