Canada News
MORE THAN 250,000 NEW PERMANENT RESIDENTS IN 2001
Citizenship and Immigration Canada, http://www.cic.gc.ca/

OTTAWA, April 17, 2002 -- The Honourable Denis Coderre, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today announced that 250,386 immigrants had come to Canada in 2001.

"The success of Canada's immigration and refugee program is more than numbers. Immigration is about the people who come to this country to contribute to our economy, to join their families or to start a new life free from persecution. Most of these newcomers will eventually become Canadian citizens to complete the journey they started last year," said Minister Coderre.

The number of newcomers who were landed in Canada in 2001 exceeded the target set for the year by 25,386. The significant increase in landings is the result of an investment from the 2000 federal budget for temporary additional resources to reduce inventories of applications at missions overseas.

"The release of the 2001 census data provided a timely reminder that Canada needs immigrants if it is to continue to grow and prosper," said the Minister. "Immigration has always been a key factor in building our country and will continue to play an important role in strengthening our economy, society and cultural diversity." By 2011, newcomers to Canada will likely account for all of the country's labour force growth. By 2026, it is anticipated that Canada's population will grow solely through the arrival of immigrants.

This year's target ranges from 210,000 to 235,000 new permanent residents. While the government remains committed to increasing the target to one percent of Canada's population over the long term, this will depend on the country's ability and available resources to integrate newcomers. Immigration levels are set after careful consideration of Canada's needs and resources and in consultation with provincial and territorial partners.