Government of Canada Launches National Conversation on Immigration

CIC News
Published: July 5, 2016

People gathering to celebrate Canada Day in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, with Canadian flags fluttering across the sceneThe government of Canada has this week launched what it calls a ‘national conversation on immigration’, in which Canadians are being consulted on the present and future of Canada’s immigration policy. The government has provided a detailed questionnaire, and participants have until August 5 to submit their views across a range of topics.

Among other questions, participants are being asked how many immigrants Canada should welcome, what ‘mix’ of immigration categories is appropriate, what settlement services should be offered to newcomers upon arrival, and how best Canada can attract global talent and international students.

Other consultation activities include cross-Canada round-table discussions led by the Immigration Minister and Parliamentary Secretary, stakeholder engagement by departmental officials, and public opinion research. The Liberal government, which came into office last November, promised to make governing more open and transparent. Moreover, the Liberals stated both before and after last year’s election that it would review Canada’s immigration policies across the board.

In a statement, the government said that ‘Canada’s strength lies in its diversity. Our diversity is closely tied to immigration and is a valued part of Canada’s story—we are asking Canadians to help us write the next chapter. The feedback gathered from Canadians will be used to help guide decisions on how many people we will welcome in the coming years and the future of immigration in Canada.

‘Immigrants have always been a central part of Canada’s success. The contributions of newcomers result in jobs, innovation and economic growth. Immigrants also strengthen our country socially and culturally,’ the statement goes on to say.

‘The government of Canada is committed to an immigration system that supports Canada’s diversity and helps grow our economy as it strengthens our society. This is an ambitious undertaking that will help determine the way forward on immigration to Canada.’

Readers can view the questionnaire by clicking here. The form is segmented into four fields that cover:

  • Strengthening our Canadian fabric
  • Unlocking Canada's diverse needs
  • Modernizing our immigration system
  • Leadership in global migration and immigration

“What a breath of fresh air this is. A national conversation such as this is the very essence of democracy and open society. People across Canada now have the opportunity to submit their views on some very important and nuanced questions, of which there are fifteen in total,” says Attorney David Cohen.

“The first question — ‘How many newcomers should we welcome to Canada in 2017 and beyond?’ — is arguably the most striking. I believe that this government has a vision for growth, both in terms of the economy and the population base. Indeed, this government may be realizing that it is difficult to have one without the other.”

Non-Canadian readers can learn more about their immigration options across more than 60 different programs by completing a free online assessment form

© 2016 CICNews All Rights Reserved

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Top Stories
Can I travel outside of Canada as a temporary resident?
BREAKING: Ontario announces distribution of allocation for international study permits in 2024
Canada to introduce a Renters Bill of Rights
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
Can I travel outside of Canada as a temporary resident?
male traveler taking selfie portrait on the hill with mount assiniboine in national park at BC, Canada
Canada to introduce a Renters Bill of Rights
Clearing up three common misconceptions about immigrating to Canada
Debunking common myths about immigrating to Canada.
IRCC issues ITAs to Express Entry candidates in second draw this week
IRCC has held another round of invitations for Express Entry candidates
Link copied to clipboard