New measures to support Francophone immigration outside Quebec

Credit to Author: Canadian Immigrant| Date: Wed, 17 Jan 2024 19:11:55 +0000

Canada has announced a series of ambitious initiatives to strengthen the presence of French in provinces and territories outside Quebec.

English and French are Canada’s two official languages. According to the 2021 Census, English is the first official language spoken by just over three in four Canadians. French is the first official language spoken by an increasing number of Canadians, but the proportion fell from 22.2 per cent in 2016 to 21 per cent in 2021.

The new measures announced include a new Francophone immigration policy, the renewal and expansion of the Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative, a new program to support Francophone immigration, and the implementation of the Action Plan for Official Languages.

Francophone immigration policy

The new policy seeks to pave the the way for tangible, ambitious and innovative actions to promote the vitality and economic development of Francophone minority communities. This will include a series of measures such as promotion and recruitment support efforts, both in Canada and abroad, particularly for specific lines of business, in order to address labour shortages. .

Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative

Through this initiative, 14 Canadian communities will continue to receive funding to foster the integration of French-speaking newcomers. The will enable the Government of Canada to select up to 10 additional communities that will, in turn, be able to create environments that support the economic and socio-cultural integration of French-speaking newcomers.

Francophone Immigration Support Program

The new Francophone Immigration Support Program will fund innovative projects to eliminate barriers to Francophone immigration. This will make it easier for Francophone minority communities to participate in international promotion initiatives and support and recruit French-speaking candidates.

The Action Plan for Official Languages 2023-2028

These initiatives are supported by an investment of over $137 million announced as part of the Government of Canada’s Action Plan for Official Languages 2023-2028.

According to Immigration Minister Marc Miller, “The numerous measures we are implementing will attract skilled Francophone workers who will support the economic and cultural development of these communities. Our efforts to ensure the successful reception and integration of French-speaking newcomers support our unwavering commitment to restoring and increasing the demographic weight of Francophone minority communities.”

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