19 Sep IRCC announced the first-ever category-based selection for skilled newcomers working in transport occupations
IRCC announced the first-ever category-based selection for skilled newcomers working in transport occupations
On September 18, 2023, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Marc Miller, announced the first category-based draw in the Express Entry system for newcomers with work experience in transport occupations. This initiative focuses on attracting skilled workers in the transport sector, including truck drivers, pilots, and aircraft assembly workers. The goal is to address labour shortages and support economic goals by inviting candidates with specific work experience or French language ability to apply for permanent residence. Canada’s Express Entry system provides a streamlined pathway for skilled individuals in critical fields. By prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers in transport occupations, Canada aims to meet the demand for talent and fill key positions that contribute to economic growth.
Express_Entry, #transportation, #IRCC, #Miller
Temporary residents demand a new pathway to permanent residency
Migrants, including undocumented individuals, students, and refugees, marched in cities across Canada to demand permanent residency for all before the federal parliament reconvenes. In Toronto, protesters marched downtown, causing traffic delays. They call for an uncapped program to grant permanent residence to all migrants and illegal immigrants. This protest follows criticism from a UN expert who referred to Canada’s temporary foreign worker program as a form of slavery. The UN Special Rapporteur on Modern Forms of Slavery has urged the government to provide a longer-term or permanent residency pathway for all temporary foreign workers.
PR, #temporary_residents, #illegal_migrants, #undocumented_workers
Canada to address housing crisis and increasing grocery prices
On September 14, 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced new initiatives to address the housing crisis and rising grocery prices. This includes increasing rental accommodation, assisting small business owners, and reducing grocery prices. To reduce housing costs, the government will encourage the construction of rental dwellings and provide refunds for new rental homes. Local governments will stimulate the construction of flats near public transportation to receive funding. The government will support small business owners by extending the Canada Emergency Business Account program. The government will meet with grocery chain heads to combat rising prices and urge them to stabilize costs. They will also consider tax measures and boost grocery sector competition to lower Canadians’ costs.
Housing_crisis, #Trudeau
Canadians are dissatisfied with PGP 2023 not being available for new sponsors
Most Canadians expected IRCC to open the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for new sponsors in 2023, but they were disappointed when the program remained closed to new participants. The new round of the PGP will open on October 10, 2023, inviting 24,200 prospective sponsors to apply. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to accept 15,000 complete applications, but PGP 2023 is not open to new sponsors. This is the third year that IRCC only considers sponsors who applied in 2020. Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2023 aims to welcome 465,000 new permanent residents, including 28,500 parents and grandparents. By 2025, Canada plans to increase its target to 500,000 newcomers, with 36,000 spots reserved for parents and grandparents.