As Canada’s vaccinations rise and the talk of another COVID-19 wave lessens, the province of New Brunswick can set its sights on growth.
On a recent trip to New Brunswick, Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino marvelled at the province’s willingness to welcome newcomers.
“New Brunswick needs more immigration, New Brunswick wants more immigration, they recognize that by bringing in the skills and experience that are necessary that immigration will create jobs, prosperity and growth,” said Mendicino.
Immigration has become an integral part of the province’s development. In the first quarter of 2021, 1,141 people moved to New Brunswick through International immigration according to statistics from the Canadian Real Estate Association.
While the statistics pale in comparison to the highs set before the emergence of COVID-19, the beginning of 2021 proved to be a pandemic high thus far.
Mendicino believes that recent discussions with service providers, business leaders and elected officials can help address the gaps for immigrants.
“We want to find ways to align where the labour shortages are with the skills that are possessed by the newcomers,” said Mendicino.
The most common concerns included the resources to ensure a fluid integration into the economy and the levels of red tape individuals face after immigrating.
The goal for Mendicino and his team is to welcome 401,000 new permanent residents by year’s end.
