News Briefs – Language Integration Recommended

The federal and provincial governments should do more to help immigrants integrate into official language minority communities across the country, Official Languages Commissioner Dyane Adam said yesterday.

Speaking to reporters as she tabled a new report by her office, Ms. Adam said it's not enough to direct immigrants to provinces where they can bolster an official language minority -- rather, services have to be provided to help them integrate into minority communities. "Successful immigration in a minority context cannot be left to chance," Ms. Adam said. She said governments must also do more to recognize immigrants' professional qualifications.

Federal Government seeks to Expedite Skilled Immigration

The federal government will fast-track the admission of skilled immigrants
and their spouses, and will move to address business complaints about
burdensome regulation, Liberal ministers said yesterday.

Industry Minister Allan Rock and Human Resources Minister Jane Stewart will
convene an innovation summit in Toronto next week that is meant lay down a clear agenda for both government and business.

Canadian Embassy in Manila Closed Temporarily

The Canadian Embassy in Manila is temporarily closed until further notice due to security concerns. People wishing to visit Canada from the Philippines are advised to courier their applications to the Canadian Consulate General in Hong Kong. Applications can also be submitted in person at any other Canadian visa office.