Immigration plays a vital role in shaping Canada’s labour market and future prosperity. Last year, 86% of the 56,000+ jobseekers we served were newcomers, underscoring their critical contributions to high-demand sectors like healthcare, trades, and technology. Their global perspectives and skills drive economic growth and strengthen communities.
Last month, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), announced Canada’s new immigration targets for the next three years, including a significant and unexpected reduction in permanent resident admissions.
This shift raises important questions about how we will address the growing demand for skilled talent and ensure the workforce Canada needs to succeed. Here is how we have been engaging in national conversations to address these challenges:
Canadian Immigration Summit 2024: Our SVP, Services & Strategic Initiatives, Manjeet Dhiman, joined industry leaders and policymakers, to explore the future of settlement and employment services and how public, private, and non-profit sectors can collaborate to strengthen immigration systems. During the panel, Manjeet highlighted the importance of fostering a sense of community and belonging among newcomers, emphasizing the critical role of tailored support in their success.
Canadian Club Toronto: We heard from the Honourable Marc Miller as he discussed the need to create an inclusive immigration system that balances growth and sustainability, with magazine editor and interviewer Stacy Lee Kong. The focus on untapped labour pools and strategic immigration policies aligns with our commitment to supporting pre-arrival and newcomer jobseekers.
Empire Club of Canada’s “Tools of the Trade”: We heard the honourable Minister David Piccini of the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development speak to a focus on productivity growth to strengthen Ontario’s economy. He highlighted the value of training and skills in various sectors and how diversity of opportunity leads to better outcomes. As an organization focused on strengthening the labour market through nimble and innovative programs, we continue to make sector-specific programming and the integration of newcomers a key priority.
Together with our partners and key stakeholders, we are building pathways for success and building a workforce that reflects the skills, diversity, and potential of Canada’s population.
