News Release - Canada and British Columbia sign new immigration agreement

VANCOUVER, April 5, 2004 — Judy Sgro, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, and Murray Coell, Minister of Community, Aboriginal and Women’s Services for British Columbia, signed a new immigration agreement today.

“This agreement reinforces our commitment to continue our successful partnership with British Columbia on immigration matters and our desire to see all regions of Canada benefit from immigration,” said Minister Sgro.

“Today’s renewed agreement offers a stronger partnership and potential for initiatives to further maximize the benefits of immigration,” said Minister Coell. “It will benefit immigrants, their families and communities and help us build a stronger economy for all British Columbians.”

The agreement for Canada–British Columbia Cooperation on Immigration defines the respective roles and responsibilities of Canada and British Columbia related to immigrants and temporary residents who want to come to British Columbia under the provisions of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

The agreement establishes a framework for the governments of Canada and British Columbia to develop new initiatives to meet regional immigration needs, improve the integration of immigrants, encourage foreign students to choose British Columbia and address barriers to the recognition of foreign credentials. Key elements of the original agreement signed in 1998 remain, including a commitment by British Columbia to design and deliver settlement services and participate in the Provincial Nominee Program, which gives provinces and territories the authority to identify and nominate immigrants to fill their specific regional and local needs.

For more information (media only):

Simone Mac Andrew
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
(613) 954-1064

Claire Despins
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
(613) 941-7035

Marisa Adair
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Aboriginal and Women’s Services
(250) 953-3677

Visit the Ministry of Community, Aboriginal and Women’s Services Web site.

Backgrounder:

• Agreement for Canada–British Columbia cooperation on immigration