Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Canadian Immigration Ministers Convene to Shape Future Policy
Montréal, May 10, 2024 — The Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI) gathered today to deliberate on Canada's immigration strategy for the years 2025 to 2027. This pivotal meeting focused on the manifold economic and social advantages of immigration, the balance between permanent and temporary residents, and the pressures arising from increased capacity demands.
Key Discussions and Agreements
During the forum, significant emphasis was placed on the necessity of a well-managed immigration system to ensure the equitable distribution of immigration benefits across the nation. Ministers unanimously agreed that robust public services are essential for the successful integration of newcomers. In a strong appeal, provincial and territorial ministers urged the federal government to reconsider the $625 million cuts to employment services under the Labour Market Transfer Agreements (LMTAs), highlighting the potential risks to vital services relied upon by workers, newcomers, job seekers, and vulnerable Canadians.
The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between different levels of government. This cooperation is crucial for leveraging federal, provincial, and territorial immigration programs, such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These programs are vital in addressing regional labor market needs while fulfilling economic, cultural, and societal objectives across Canada. The ministers reaffirmed Canada's longstanding tradition of welcoming newcomers, including the most vulnerable individuals globally.
Balancing Temporary and Permanent Residency
A major topic was the balance between temporary and permanent resident arrivals. The federal government's initiative to include temporary residents in the annual levels plan for the first time was a focal point, along with the goal of reducing the temporary resident population to 5% of Canada's total populace. The ministers shared insights on the diverse challenges and realities faced by their jurisdictions.
Temporary residents, encompassing foreign workers, international students, and asylum claimants, are integral to Canada's economic and cultural landscape. The ministers acknowledged that any reduction in temporary resident numbers should be managed with a strategic approach, considering labor demands in key sectors. A data-driven approach was emphasized to monitor the impact of recent federal measures aimed at decreasing temporary resident volumes.
Educational and Work Permit Reforms
The ministers examined recent federal changes to the International Student Program (ISP), which falls within the shared jurisdiction of immigration and the exclusive provincial jurisdiction of education. There was a consensus on the need for better alignment with regional labor market needs, advocating for the strategic use of temporary foreign workers in certain economic sectors. The ministers reiterated their commitment to enhancing the integrity of Canada’s work permit programs, ensuring Canadians and permanent residents have priority for job opportunities.
Responding to Global Humanitarian Crises
Amidst global conflicts and crises, Canada maintains a leadership role in welcoming displaced individuals. The ministers discussed responses to crises in regions like Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine, including the Canada–Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. There is a keen interest in finding permanent solutions for Ukrainians wishing to stay in Canada. The ministers recognized the influx of asylum claimants and stressed the importance of a robust asylum system to meet humanitarian obligations. They highlighted the need for effective federal crisis response frameworks, enhanced communication between governments, and improved support systems for asylum claimants.
Addressing Regional Pressures and Provincial Nominee Programs
The increasing volume of asylum claimants has presented challenges, particularly in housing and shelter provisions. Ministers acknowledged the disproportionate pressures on Ontario and Quebec, leading to the establishment of a working group to manage asylum claimant flows and resource allocation more effectively.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) were identified as critical in fulfilling regional economic and labor needs. Concerns were raised about PNP allocation levels for 2024, with calls for increased allocations to support the transition from temporary to permanent residency. This would align with federal objectives of reducing temporary resident volumes while addressing provincial and territorial priorities.
Commitment to Collaborative Immigration Policies
In conclusion, the ministers reiterated their dedication to advancing joint immigration priorities. This commitment is guided by principles of shared jurisdiction
