Liberals will restore fairness,streamline immigration system

RICHMOND, British Columbia – A new Liberal government will reverse the irresponsible immigration measures introduced by the Conservatives last spring and invest a total of $800 million in new federal funding to deal with the immigration backlog, welcome more new Canadians, and ensure that they succeed, Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion said today.

“Last spring the Conservative government gave the Immigration Minister sweeping discretionary powers to reject whole categories of immigration applications,” said Mr. Dion. “When I am elected Prime Minister I will immediately reverse these unfair and dangerous immigration changes.”

Mr. Dion went on to discuss the Liberal vision for Canada, which includes ensuring new Canadians receive the support they need to fully participate in Canadian society.

“Immigration will account for all of Canada’s net labour and population growth during the next five years and is a key element of the Liberal plan for Canada’s future success,” said Mr. Dion. “A Liberal government will make the necessary investments to increase the number of permanent residents to Canada every year and ensure they have the necessary tools to succeed.”

In full partnership with provinces, fully respecting agreements such as the one with Quebec, over four years, a new Liberal government will invest:

-$400 million to modernize the immigration system, process applications more efficiently and support the admission of significantly more permanent residents to Canada.

-$200 million in New Beginnings Canada – an enhanced language training initiative designed to help newcomers master the language necessary to get jobs that match their qualifications; and

-an additional $200 million for Bridge to Work – a new initiative that will better prepare newcomers for the workplace through the use of internships, mentorship and work placement opportunities. And we will help get foreign credentials recognized, by providing direct financial support to assist foreign-trained doctors and other professionals in obtaining their Canadian qualifications.

“A successful immigration plan is built on the sound principles of fairness, accountability and opportunity,” said Mr. Dion. “We will welcome new Canadians everywhere in Canada to help us enrich our country, and we will provide and expand their opportunities to succeed.”