Government House Leader and Beausejour MP Dominic Leblanc agrees with former New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna’s comments regarding immigration to Atlantic Canada.
Leblanc says it’s no secret our demographics are posing a very serious economic and social challenge to the province.
“So Mr. McKenna has been consistent and has been clear in saying that immigration is a critical part of the economic and social development of New Brunswick,” says Leblanc. “Our government shares that view.”
Leblanc says they are looking for ways to significantly increase the number of immigrants arriving in New Brunswick, but not only in the Syrian Refugee stream.
He adds that stream has captured the imagination of Canadians, and he’s extremely proud of Canada, and New Brunswick in welcoming these refugees.
“But it doesn’t take away the obligation to ensure the other immigration programs benefit New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada much more,” says Leblanc.
He added the provincial and federal government are working hand in hand to reach a viable solution.
“I had a preliminary conversation with Minister McCallum, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Premier Gallant, and I know the Government of Canada will be working with the New Brunswick Government,” says Leblanc.
He says even as they plan to increase immigration, they will also respect the linguistic makeup of New Brunswick as a province with both francophones and anglophones.
