Welcome all the newcomers
The story of Christmas makes it clear to welcome immigrants and refugees, as they can have a considerably meaningful impact on your country.
We need immigrants in Canada and, in particular, here in Newfoundland and Labrador where there are more people about to retire than those entering the labour force. This province has the oldest population in the country and a death rate that far exceeds our birth rate. We need to act fast.
That is why it was welcome news last month Canada will increase its immigration quotas and will welcome nearly one million immigrants over the next three years. We have been advocating for Canada to increase its immigration to one per cent of its population.
The number of economic migrants, family reunifications and refugees will climb to 310,000 in 2018, up from 300,000 this year. That number will rise to 330,000 in 2019, then 340,000 in 2020.
According to the Conference Board of Canada, higher immigration levels would boost real gross domestic product (GDP) growth, since a larger population would mean more people spending money and working in the economy.
Diversity also leads to opportunity and growth. Companies with employees from different backgrounds have an edge over the competition with unique problem-solving skills, increased recruiting opportunities, better employee relations and extended market reach.
By embracing workplace diversity, the doors to a successful future are kept open for everyone. It’s a strategy that increases productivity and sales, and it’s an attitude that speaks to the very best in all of us.
The province just announced two pilot employment programs for international students and graduates.
The programs will be delivered by the Association for New Canadians and will help international students secure gainful employment and expand their professional networks, which will support their pathways to permanent residency and retention in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The two programs supporting international students and graduates will do the following:
• The Student Internship Pilot Program will connect full-time international students at the province’s recognized post-secondary institutions with a small or medium-sized business for a 12-week internship in their field of study.
• The My First Job in Newfoundland and Labrador Pilot Program will match international graduates from Memorial University or the College of the North Atlantic with a small or medium-sized business for a 16-week placement in their field of study.
To complement these initiatives, the St. John’s Board of Trade is expanding the Connector Program, which is a simple yet highly effective networking program that helps local businesses and organizations connect with immigrants, international students and graduates who are interested in starting and growing their career in St. John’s, and now in central and western Newfoundland.
Through one-on-one meetings, local business and community leaders known as Connectors meet with talent interested in opportunities in St. John’s. The Connector gains access to a wealth of diverse, pre-qualified talent, and Connectees gain insight into their professional network and connect with career opportunities.
We were all immigrants at one time to this country. Recently there have been a number of immigrants who have made huge contributions to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador
From the Alteens (Lebanon) in Corner Brook to Di Dabinett (Zimbabwe) in Pouch Cove, immigrants have made a profound impact on the business community in Newfoundland.
Integration is critical to success.
One of the things we often lament is the out-migration to the mainland of many of our newcomers. Landing that first job is critical. To retain immigrants, there has to be a deliberate strategy. Our Connector program and the province’s new initiatives are a step in the right direction and are important.
But what also is needed is integration into our communities. It is not enough to be friendly. We have to be friends. Invite newcomers to our homes, and to our sports teams, our social clubs. So, this Christmas, as you enjoy the holiday season with friends and family, why not invite a newcomer or two to join in your fun. Memorial University has a Holiday Hosting Program that can match your family with an international student.
So, Santa Baby, the only thing that is left on our immigration Christmas list this year is an entrepreneurial category under the provincial nominee program. Our fingers are crossed that our wish comes true.
Wishing you happy holidays and a prosperous 2018.