Provide the support immigrants need

A fair and efficient immigration system is the way to Canada’s economic success and national identity. The Canadians expect and deserve a government that takes seriously the challenges that the newcomers face.

We all know that in the next five years, immigration will account for all of Canada’s net labour and population growth. And to a large extent, we are fortunate that we have what we need to succeed- a multicultural population with two official languages, a well-educated workforce and the best universities.

What is missing is a government that recognizes, understands and efficiently removes the hurdles that stand in the way of immigrant success. We need a strategy to polish the skills and talents of every citizen.

What is more shocking is the fact that in the face of labour shortages choking growth in the West and immigrants across Canada facing obstacles to success, the Harper Government has offered only a bill that gives more power to the immigration minister.

Last spring, the Conservative government gave sweeping unrestricted power to the immigration minister to reject immigration applications of any category. And they tried to sneak these rubbish changes through by hiding them in a lengthy budget bill.

The fact is that Stephen Harper’s approach to immigration does little to deal with the challenges faced by the new Canadians. And despite their rhetoric, the Conservatives are actually letting fewer numbers of immigrants to enter into the Canada.

Now, with the promises made by the Liberal Government, it seems that we have an option to tackle immigration issue.