CANADIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

New federal commitments to help newcomers settle in Canada

Thursday, 3 January 2008

Minister Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration has recently announced (Dec 17) new federal commitments to assist in the settlement and integration of newcomers to Canada.

In addition to the $1.3 billion provided in Budget 2006, new funding of $121.6 million will be provided over the next three years, bringing the total investment to more than $1.4 billion over a five-year period.

The 2008-09 allocations to provinces and territories outside Quebec and Ontario which support the delivery of settlement programs and services for immigrants were also announced. Allocations for the provinces of Quebec and Ontario are provided for in separate bilateral agreements.

Canada wishes to support programs and services that help newcomers settle and eventually integrate into Canadian society. Such programs include information and orientation to newcomers, language training, and support in establishing networks and contacts.

The Government has committed to helping newcomers and their families succeed by substantially increasing funding in every province to support programs and services that can make a real difference in the lives of immigrants.

This new funding allows Canada to continue supporting immigration by responding to the needs of newcomers by helping them become part of the community and economy.