Immigration, while debated, fuels Canada’s economic growth
Immigration catalyzes Canada’s economic growth, though its long-term viability is subject to debate. According to Northern Trust, a notable surge in newcomers was observed in 2022, contributing to Canada’s unprecedented population growth. This influx, totalling 437,180 immigrants and 607,782 non-permanent residents, has invigorated the healthcare, IT, and construction sectors. However, Ottawa’s strategy has raised eyebrows, reflected in the Trudeau administration’s imposition of caps on study permits and a noticeable shift in public sentiment fueled by concerns over strain on public services and housing. In response to Canada’s ageing demographic, some advocate for a more robust immigration initiative.
Nova Scotia allocates $3 millions for immigrant settlement assistance
Nova Scotia invests an additional $3 million to improve newcomer retention with English language training, healthcare worker support, and francophone and community initiatives. Immigration Minister Jill Balser celebrated the influx of skilled professionals last year, particularly in healthcare and construction, where increases of 88.9% and 85.8% were observed. In 2023, the province welcomed 763 healthcare and 244 construction workers. Vanessa White of Shannex International highlighted the vital role of international recruitment and immigration in meeting community needs and fostering diverse, inclusive workplaces.
BC PNP delays the new Pearson Language Test acceptance
Despite the Pearson Test of English (PTE Core) being approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Canada work and visa applications (except the Student Direct Stream), it has not yet been accepted by the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). From February 12, PTE Core tests can be taken for economic immigration through the federal Express Entry-related programs., alongside CELPIP and IELTS tests. BC PNP plans to accept PTE Core in the fall of 2024. The BC PNP currently accepts IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, Test d’evaluation de francais (TEF), and Test de connaissance du francais (TCF).
The temporary workforce in Quebec saw a nearly fourfold increase in eight years
Quebec’s temporary worker population has quadrupled in eight years, from 43,770 in 2015 to 167,435 in 2023, according to the Institut du Quebec (IDQ). Most come through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP). The manufacturing, retail trade, and restaurant sectors are the largest employers of these workers, while construction, healthcare and social services have fewer due to overseas recruitment challenges. In 2023, temporary workers made up three percent of Quebec’s workforce. IDQ director Emna Braham credits them for addressing labour shortages and increasing the province’s workforce, particularly in the past year. In Q4 of last year, Quebec’s temporary resident count hit a record 528,034.
