Minister Mendicino Marks the Start of National Francophone Immigration Week 2020
Declaration
Ottawa, November 2, 2020 – The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, issued the following statement:
“Immigration helps fuel the Canadian economy and enrich Canadian society. The Government of Canada strongly believes that all newcomers, including Francophone immigrants, contribute to the vitality of this country. »
“National Francophone Immigration Week is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Francophone newcomers and the vitality of Francophone communities outside Quebec. When we create welcoming and inclusive communities and support Francophone newcomers to settle and connect, all of Canada benefits. »
“To demonstrate the government’s commitment to attracting Francophone newcomers to Canada, I recently announced that Francophone and bilingual applicants would receive more points under Express Entry, our online system for managing applications from skilled workers who want to become permanent residents. This change will increase the number of points awarded from 15 to 25 for Francophone applicants and from 30 to 50 for bilingual applicants, thereby increasing Francophone admissions and helping Canada reach its goal of 4.4 percent Francophone admissions outside of Quebec by 2023. »
“While progress toward this goal will depend on the easing of travel restrictions related to the VIDOC-19 pandemic, this measure will support Francophone minority communities in the long term and complement other initiatives. »
National Francophone Immigration Week highlights Canada’s efforts to welcome and help settle Francophone newcomers outside Quebec. I support this initiative and congratulate its participants for celebrating Canada’s diversity and openness.