Summit Report /Rapport du sommet

Transcription

1 Summit Report /Rapport du sommet Settlement Program Priorities for the Atlantic Region Priorités du Programme d établissement pour la région de l Atlantique Contributors: Fall / automne 2014 ARAISA (Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies) CAIF (Le Comité atlantique sur I immigration francophone) Ce rapport est aussi disponible en français.

2 Table of Contents Introduction 1 Welcome from ARAISA and CAIF 2 Section 1: ARAISA Overview 3 Executive Summary 6 Priorities for the Atlantic Region 8 What We Heard Stakeholder Comments 10 Theme 1: Welcoming Communities Priorities 11 Theme 2: Essential Settlement Services Priorities 15 Theme 3: Language Training Priorities 17 Theme 4: Labour Market Engagement and Attachment Priorities 20 Atlantic Region Concerns and Issues 23 Section 2: CAIF Summary of Recommendations 24 Provincial Consultations in French 28 Results of the Provincial Consultations 30 Combined Results 30 Theme 1 Essential Settlement Services 33 Theme 2 Language Training 34 Theme 3 The Labour Market 36 Theme 4 Welcoming Communities 38 Annexe/Appendix 40

3 Introduction This Regional Summit Report for the Atlantic Region represents the findings of a series of ARAISA and CAIF stakeholder consultations held across the Atlantic region (in October and November 2014). We would like to thank and acknowledge Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and a variety of provincial governments across the region for their support to the Summit process. The Report has two sections: Section 1: ARAISA - Information from 8 stakeholder consultations on Settlement Program Priorities for the Atlantic Region coordinated by ARAISA (Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies). ARAISA website: Coordinator@araisa.ca Members include: Association for New Canadians (ANC), St. John's, NL Halifax Regional School Board Adult ESL, Halifax, NS Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), Halifax, NS Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area (MAGMA), Moncton, NB Multicultural Association of Fredericton Inc (MCAF), Fredericton, NB PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada (PEI ANC), Charlottetown, PEI YMCA Center for Immigrant Programs, Halifax/Dartmouth, NS YMCA of Saint John, Saint John, NB Section 2: CAIF - Information from 4 stakeholder consultations on Settlement Program priorities for the Atlantic Region - presented by CAIF (Le Comité atlantique sur I immigration francophone) Website: info@snacadie.org The CAIF is a collaboration mechanism for Francophone immigration stakeholders in the Atlantic provinces that enables them to share information and resources, form partnerships, work on common issues and speak with one voice. Established in 2009, the CAIF is coordinated by the Société Nationale de l'acadie (SNA). Members include: La Coopérative d'intégration francophone de l'île-du-prince-édouard; Le Réseau en immigration francophone du Nouveau-Brunswick; Immigration Francophone Nouvelle-Écosse; Le Réseau immigration francophone de Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador; The four Réseaux de développement économique et d employabilité (RDEE) en Atlantique; Office of immigration representatives from each of Atlantic Canada's four provincial governments (observers); Representatives from the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages of Canada (observers). 1

4 Welcome from ARAISA and CAIF On behalf of the Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (ARAISA), I want to personally thank all of the community stakeholders who took time to participate in our ARAISA Regional Summit meetings in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland/Labrador. This Regional Summit Report for the Atlantic Region represents what stakeholders said were the most important immigrant settlement program priorities for our region. This series of municipal, provincial, and regional meetings was the first in our region. The meetings represented a new opportunity for stakeholders from across the region, to work together, share information, and identify settlement program priorities. As we all know, immigration and settlement are key priorities in our region. Together, we have identified the challenges, and the opportunities which lie ahead. We believe this process has laid the foundation for continued consultations, and we look for forward to working with you in the future. Thank you for your contribution. Regards, Gerry Mills President of ARAISA =========================================================================== In the fall of 2014, the Comité atlantique sur l'immigration francophone held consultation sessions in French in each of the four Atlantic provinces. On November 13, 2014, it also took part in the bilingual Regional Summit organized for the purpose of setting priorities for the next three to five years in connection with the settlement of Francophone immigrants throughout Atlantic Canada. The issues, needs and priorities identified during the Francophone consultations were used to make the recommendations to Citizenship and Immigration Canada listed in Section 2. These recommendations are intended to guide the next CIC Settlement Program call for proposals process. Thanks to all participants who took part in the consultations. Le Comité atlantique sur l immigration francophone 2

5 Section 1: ARAISA Summit Overview The Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (ARAISA) is the regional umbrella group and collective voice for organizations committed to immigrant settlement in Atlantic Canada. Representatives from settlement organizations from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland/Labrador sit on the ARAISA Board. In 2014, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) asked umbrella organizations for immigrant serving agencies across the country to organize a series of stakeholder meetings in their regions. Summit information would be used to identify settlement program priorities and to inform Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) planning for the next national Call for Proposals in In the Atlantic region, feedback from the local and provincial stakeholder consultations was collected, compiled, analyzed and Atlantic priorities presented to federal and provincial representatives at a Regional Summit meeting. Then a Summit Report for the Atlantic Region was prepared and distributed. ARAISA also worked in conjunction with CAIF (Le Comité atlantique sur I immigration francophone). CAIF undertook the same consultation process of coordinating regional meetings with Acadian and Francophone stakeholders, reporting their findings/priorities at the Regional Summit Meeting, and submitting their priorities for the Final Summit Report Atlantic Region Summit Process For the Atlantic region, ARAISA organized and coordinated 8 local and provincial stakeholders meetings across the region. 8 ARAISA Summit stakeholder consultations were held: Nova Scotia - Halifax (October 1) and a second meeting in Sydney ** (October 23) **funded by the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration New Brunswick - Fredericton, Saint John, Moncton, and NB Provincial (October 9, October 14, October 15, and October 28) Prince Edward Island - Charlottetown (October 7) Newfoundland and Labrador - St. John s (October 2) Followed by: Regional Summit Meeting - Halifax, NS (November 13) (hosted by ARAISA and CAIF) 3

6 Community/Stakeholder Consultation Process Invitations to participate in the Summit consultations were extended to a variety of stakeholders including settlement organizations, community organizations, municipal, provincial, and federal representatives, employers, and representatives from business, health, and education. Stakeholders were consulted about settlement programs, priorities, and needs. Each meeting followed the same process, focused on the same four themes, and asked participants the same questions. In advance of the meeting, all participants received background papers on the four theme areas information on the type of programs and services offered under the theme area. The Four Settlement Program Themes were: Welcoming Communities Essential Settlement Services Language Training Labour Market Attachment/Engagement Each Summit meeting included: an overview of the summit process a PowerPoint presentation tailored to each region which provided background information and an overview of current immigration statistics/trends an overview of the meeting agenda, tasks and goals For each settlement program theme, participants were asked the following five questions: What are the challenges for this theme area? What programs and services are essential and should be maintained? Do any existing programs/services need to be expanded or enhanced? Are there gaps? What new programs/services are needed? What are your program priorities? Participants worked in groups to discuss these questions, and then presented their findings to the larger meeting group. Settlement program priorities were then identified. Following each meeting, stakeholder comments were compiled. ARAISA members reviewed and analyzed the information, and identified the most important settlement program priorities for the Atlantic Region. 4

7 ARAISA presented this preliminary information to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and attending provincial representatives at the Regional Summit Meeting for the Atlantic Region in November CAIF worked in conjunction with ARAISA on the summit process, and also presented their findings at the Regional Summit Meeting. Following the Regional Summit meeting, ARAISA in conjunction with CAIF, prepared their information for this Summit Report, which will be submitted to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), and used to inform CIC planning and the next 2015 CIC Call for proposal. Highlights of the ARAISA Regional Summit Stakeholder Meetings and Summit Process: Over 190 stakeholders participated in the 8 ARAISA local and provincial meetings. Stakeholders came from community organizations, settlement agencies, businesses, employers, health services, educational organizations, and federal, provincial and municipal governments. ARAISA organized, coordinated and hosted 9 stakeholder meetings across the region. 5

8 Executive Summary By all accounts, this has been a unique process; one that was designed and delivered by Atlantic Canadians. When the Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (ARAISA) was asked by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to undertake a consultation process to identify priorities for funding settlement services, we wanted to ensure we heard from a wide range of stakeholders in all four Atlantic provinces. We wanted to hear from people who, while affected by big decisions, are not often consulted. We also saw this as an opportunity to edify and engage people in the settlement and integration of newcomers to our part of Canada. In the end, we held eight consultations in the four provinces in English and CAIF held four in French. CIC s senior management in the Eastern Region should be applauded for supporting a complex process that allowed for more than 200 people to speak in both official languages to settlement priorities over the coming 5 years. At the Regional Summit meeting on November 13, 2014, in Halifax, CIC was presented with findings and recommendations in both French and English. While what we heard was not surprising and what we recommend is not revolutionary, there is almost universal support for the settlement work that is funded by CIC and is being carried out by dozens of agencies throughout Atlantic Canada. Stakeholders told us the current settlement services are successful and vitally important to keeping immigrants and refugees in the province where they initially land. Stakeholders also acknowledged the complexity and range of challenges our clients face and supported a continuation of the kind of settlement services currently being delivered. Another consistent theme we heard was about improving the work we do with businesses and employers. Newcomers need jobs and employers need to know more about the value of hiring immigrants and of diversifying their workforce. In the same vein, stakeholders saw the need for more cultural competency training both for clients and the communities that are welcoming newcomers. Those attending the consultations reminded us of the importance of looking after the more vulnerable of those coming to Canada: refugees, children and youth, women, seniors, and those with intellectual and physical disabilities. Another theme was around being flexible and adaptable so that programs and services can be delivered in a variety of different ways. Options might include utilizing available technology by offering online or blended programming, travelling to help newcomers outside of the major centres, developing partnerships to enable communities to become more involved in settling newcomers, and so on. But we were reminded that there is no substitute for in-person, face-to-face support. 6

9 Stakeholders identified opportunities for expansion for CIC, including providing some pre-arrival services to better prepare new immigrants and broadening eligibility for services for some temporary workers, international students and Canadian citizens. It is also important to point out that this consultation process was made possible through a strengthened and better supported settlement umbrella organization. ARAISA now has a part-time coordinator. That individual has brought organization and focus to our work. We believe that support must continue, and along with that, support for professional development for member agencies in Atlantic Canada. Lastly, I want to acknowledge the contributions of several people in making this process a success: Eastern Region CIC management, especially Maryse O Neill Support from Provincial Governments The ARAISA Summit working group: Megan Morris, Gerry Mills, Barbara Nix-Miller, Jill Keliher, Craig Mackie ARAISA Coordinator, Joyce Pugh CAIF Project Coordinator, Gaston Saulnier The more than 200 Atlantic Canadian stakeholders We look forward to the future with everyone working together for the successful settlement and integration of all immigrants and refugees. Craig Mackie President ( ) ARAISA 7

10 Priorities for the Atlantic Region For Settlement Programs/Services Following the stakeholder consultations, all feedback was compiled and reviewed by ARAISA members. The priorities below represent what stakeholders, from across the region, told us were the most important priorities for the Atlantic Region. Maintain/Enhance Existing Settlement Programs/Services Maintaining and strengthening the existing settlement programs and services was the top priority in each of the provinces and in each of the summits, demonstrating the service excellence that is both present and recognized in the Atlantic Region. Existing programs included language, employment, community connection and essential settlement services. Provide Programming for Vulnerable Clients - Supports/Services The specific needs, challenges and complex issues regarding settlement and integration supports for vulnerable clients was a recurring theme in each of the summits and across all 4 themes. There is a growing need for strategic, targeted program and settlement planning for children, youth, seniors, refugees, women and those with complex issues such as mental health and trauma. Provide Employer/Employment/Business Support/Services Employment was discussed as a priority in each of the 4 themes. Service/Support is needed for a wide range of activities and initiatives including employment counselling, workplace attachment, employer engagement, and foreign credential recognition as well as for increasing the number of immigrants who want to open a business. It was stressed that supports need to be in place to respond to the wide range of immigrant profiles. Successful integration can be seen as having two parts one is represented by the settlement agencies who help immigrants prepare for integration, but the second requirement involves preparation and support services to businesses and employers so that immigrants can successfully integrate into the workplace. These go hand in hand. Ensure Program Accessibility/Expand Modalities Access to settlement services is key to successful integration - there exists a significant divide between access to services in rural and urban centres in each of the Atlantic provinces. There are clearly opportunities and possibilities for technology-enhanced service provision but support for stable technology is critical. Accessibility is also key in terms of, expanding outreach programs, offering programs/services through a variety of modalities, and to expanding eligibility to new groups such as international graduates and temporary foreign workers. 8

11 Provide Community Education, Engagement & Partnerships Ensuring that a welcoming community is in place is key to immigrant integration and retention and resources are needed to develop partnerships and to engage communities in their settlement role. The role of Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs) was widely supported by the summit participants. Cross cultural/cultural awareness education for the wider community was considered a priority, and should be widely available. Expand Pre-Arrival Services Expanding and enhancing pre-arrival services for all categories of immigrants, including refugees, was a priority supported throughout the Atlantic Region. Services that can readily be made available as prearrival services include needs assessment, settlement planning, orientation, employment/business preparation and language training. Sector Capacity Building - Support for Umbrella Organizations and Staff Professional Development (PD) The strength of the region s settlement services lies in the professional and committed service provider organizations and their staff. We need to build on that strength by ensuring that resources are in place both for ongoing professional development and for the Atlantic voice to be heard through the regional umbrella association. Additional notes on Support for Umbrella Organizations CIC s 2014 Working Paper, The Role of Immigrant and Refugee Serving Umbrella Organizations in Settlement and Integration, notes that while umbrella organizations may differ in terms of size, capacity and history, there are key services that are offered that benefit the member agencies, all levels of government and a range of other stakeholders, including other human service providers, employers and immigrants and refugees. As such, umbrella organizations are a significant partner in the delivery of immigrant and refugee services across Canada. 1 In many jurisdictions, umbrella groups represent only one province; however, ARAISA is different from other umbrellas, as it is not provincially based and operates across a vast geography representing four provinces. ARAISA supports a level of collaboration and information sharing that would not be possible otherwise. For example, access to professional development can be limited and costly for smaller, more isolated jurisdictions in the region. ARAISA s efforts over the years has assisted service providers in the region in significantly increasing capacity by providing access to important and relevant to PD opportunities. 1 The Role of Immigrant and Refugee Serving Agency Umbrella Organizations in Settlement and Integration: CIC Discussion Paper ; OCASI, CISSA/ACSEI, SN Management; February 6,

12 What We Heard - Stakeholder Comments We also wanted to capture some of the general comments and concerns which arose during the stakeholder meetings. Stakeholders told us: Current settlement services are vital to immigrant success Stakeholders have a better understanding and appreciation for what we do, as well as, the complexities of services Stable funding is crucial, and funding must be reliable for maximum impact Immigrants primary priority is for employment / self-employment Employers/businesses need variety of supports and are looking to settlement agencies Growing need for cultural competency training for all groups from community, health, education, business and employers Need to provide more programs and services for the more vulnerable and at-risk populations - such as women, children, seniors, low-level learners, challenged learners, refugees, and youth Concerns about clients who are ineligible for service - Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs), International Students, and Canadian citizens who still require services Concerns about the changes in Citizenship language requirements - which is affecting current language services demand Programs need to be offered through a variety of modalities Program delivery needs to be accessible and flexible Settlement programs will need to be enhanced or adapted to meet changes in immigrant profile More opportunities for innovation, partnerships, and collaboration should be pursued Need for professional development for the sector - both in terms of knowledge exchanges and skill development Need for the increased use of technology to increase communication and accessibility but the concern that the new/increased technology needs also requires additional IT support/expertise/funding 10

13 Priorities by Theme This section provides an overview of the priorities by each theme area. Stakeholders told us these were their priorities. Theme 1: Welcoming Communities Priorities The Welcoming Communities theme was very strongly linked to the Regional Priority of Community education, engagement and partnerships. While support for continued funding of existing settlement and integration services was made clear in the Summits, as immigration becomes more strongly linked to economic outcomes for our region and our country, the importance of moving beyond a focus on specific immigrant settlement services to a more holistic approach was very prevalent in the Summit discussions. This was especially true for areas outside of major (urban) centers where specific settlement services are limited, thus opportunities for innovation and collaboration are foundations for needed changes as communities strive to be more welcoming and inclusive. Cultural Competency Training / Multicultural Education Atlantic communities can be welcoming environments, and yet racism and discrimination are important factors needing to be addressed. Myths about immigrants, and misinformation about immigration, often impede understanding and prevent positive actions being taken by Canadians to include immigrants in the daily life of communities. Awareness raising, fact sharing, highlighting the value of diversity, dispelling myths, and naming /stopping racism are critical as communities move forward in the process of being welcoming and inclusive. Workplaces, institutions, schools, community services, systems and events can all benefit from cultural competency training and education. There is an identified need to clarify information and establish expectations around behaviours that model inclusion. Ensuring Canadians are welcoming is just as important as supporting immigrants on their path to becoming engaged and self-reliant. Perhaps Cultural Competency Trainers should be key positions for all communities. Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities Awareness brings enhanced opportunities for action. Community members are becoming more aware of the benefits of immigration. This leads to the creation of more opportunities for immigrants to be involved in community activities and leadership. Ensuring immigrants know about and have access to volunteer opportunities in communities demonstrates inclusiveness, and offers a platform for immigrants to become engaged and to demonstrate their skills. 11

14 Community members also have opportunities to become engaged as volunteers in agencies and organizations offering support services to immigrants (ie. one on one with immigrants/families to help them get to know their new community) or with organizations who may not work specifically with immigrants but who want to be more inclusive (being a volunteer inclusive leader in a workplace that wants to attract more immigrants). Community Partnerships As organizations work together in collaborative ways to support immigrants, and/or immigrant serving agencies, the creation of welcoming and inclusive communities is much more prevalent. Examples of partnerships can be as simple as including settlement agency representatives or immigrants on event planning committees to ensure immigrants are aware of and participate in events. More complex examples include hospitals or medical professions linking with employment centers to attract qualified immigrant personnel (in Canada or pre-arrival) when filling vacant positions. Small communities can also implement and benefit from multitudes of innovative approaches that can highlight a needed focus on inclusion. Expanded awareness of barriers and opportunities leads to more collaboration. Programs to Connect Immigrants to the Community As immigrants confront and overcome culture shock and potential isolation, and move along the continuum to find meaningful work to match their skills/experience and master language, they strive to be more involved with their new community. Immigrant family members who may not be working or attending school also seek ways to understand, contribute, and benefit from being connected to services and programs that expand their own skills as well as their knowledge of Canada. Community and business leaders can find multitudes of ways to engage the talent of immigrants in their initiatives, proceedings and events. Computer apps with directories of services and opportunities for community involvement would also be of benefit as long as kept up to date and current. Special attention must be paid to supporting vulnerable populations such as refugees, children, youth, seniors, and those with disabilities. Celebrating successes of immigrants is also a key component to developing and maintaining programs that connect immigrants and communities, as is sharing promising practices among service agencies. 12

15 Services Outside Major Centers While most immigrants settle in urban centers, some move to more rural areas where settlement services are less prevalent. Expanded awareness among the general population of the many barriers immigrants face helps mainstream organizations take steps to remove barriers and be more inclusive. This, combined with the delivery of outreach services (from larger centers) and the development of small community all-inclusive services, helps ensure immigrants receive many (most) needed services wherever they settle. Even with the advancements in technology as a helpful tool, it is clear that inperson service delivery should be maintained. On-line and social media tools can benefit immigrants who have access to technology. Citizenship Preparation Assistance for immigrants to prepare for their citizenship test is needed in all locations. Helping immigrants understand the Canadian culture and become citizens is an important step on the settlement journey. Again, in-person teaching/learning is optimal, so it is important to offer sessions in small communities when possible, but virtual learning environments also help ensure all immigrants have assistance and support as they prepare. Local Immigration Partnerships - LIP Style Initiatives Information and connection are keys to successful inclusion. Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs) are great ways to ensure information sharing and connections between relevant agencies. In smaller communities, ensuring committees have an immigration lens on all sectors of work and volunteer engagement benefits both community and individual immigrants who are settling there. During the Summits, many agencies stated a desire for more information and opportunities to connect with each other. Organizing and solidifying ways to do so in all communities, large and small, will increase successful community development and settlement of immigrants across the region. Provide Public Education, Stakeholder Engagement & Community Partnerships The successful integration of immigrants is dependent not only on their own efforts, but also on the efforts of the host community. Public education, stakeholder engagement, and community partnerships are key components in building welcoming communities that support all aspects of newcomer integration. Indeed, each component has a role: public education promotes the social, cultural, and economic contribution of immigrants; stakeholder engagement ensures that the local community is engaged in all facets of the settlement process from arrival through to citizenship; and community partnerships ensures that newcomers are linked to a wide array of programs and services. There is a considerable desire to engage the local community, business sector, and local population on issues related to immigration, as well as to ensure that these groups are informed of the value of inclusion, multiculturalism, and immigration in general (e.g., different immigrant categories, etc.). In this regard, 13

16 maintaining and establishing community partnerships as well as ensuring effective community engagement, education, and diversity training were identified as priorities. 14

17 Theme 2: Essential Settlement Services Priorities Maintain Existing Settlement Programs/Services Throughout all the discussion themes, it was clearly noted that programs and services under the National Settlement Program must be maintained, as they are vital to successful newcomer settlement and long-term integration. Strengthening programs in certain key areas (e.g., health/mental health navigation, supports for vulnerable clients, etc.) was recommended, as this could only serve to strengthen immigrant outcomes. Moreover, it was noted that Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) are best positioned and have the necessary expertise, infrastructure, and experience to deliver effective, efficient, and cost-effective settlement services and programs. In this regard, maintaining, or enhancing, essential settlement programs/services was identified as a priority. Ensure Family Support Services Support Services for the entire family unit are essential to ensuring a positive settlement experience. Timely access to childcare/infant care, transportation, interpretation, counselling, accommodation for disabilities, and housing supports is required in order to help ensure that the needs of the entire family unit (e.g. spouses, children, youth, seniors, etc.) are addressed as they settle and integrate into their new home. While these services are important for all newcomers, it is especially important for newcomer families residing in rural areas, who may not have access to the suite of services available to their counterparts living in urban centres. Without the appropriate supports, newcomer families may feel isolated which can impede their ability to establish a connection to their community. Indeed, delivery of support services affects all aspects of the settlement continuum and is key to the successful integration of newcomers in the Atlantic Region. Serve Vulnerable Clients - Supports/Services With changing Government Assisted Refugees (GAR) characteristics, new source countries, and increasing numbers of conflict-affected individuals and families arriving in the region, there is a greater need to better support vulnerable newcomer populations (e.g., youth, single parent families, seniors, the disabled, and those with health/mental health issues) in settling and integrating into Canadian society. Supporting these individuals requires the development and delivery of a complex array of services, and often for longer periods, as these groups are at a higher risk of becoming marginalized and socially isolated. It is also noteworthy that the ratio of Government Assisted Refugees (GARs) to Permanent Residents (PRs) in the Atlantic Region tends to be somewhat higher than in larger jurisdictions, thus leading to an increased focus on at-risk populations. In this regard, supporting vulnerable clients was identified as a priority. 15

18 Ensure Program Accessibility While immigrants living in urban areas have access to settlement programs and services, options for immigrants living in rural areas may be limited. Geography, however, is not the only barrier to access. Immigrants living in urban areas may be unable to access programming for a variety of reasons including, childcare, employment commitments, etc. It is therefore vital to provide a variety of program delivery options (face-to-face; distance/online/blended, outreach programming) to ensure that individuals with differing needs are able to access settlement programming in a timely manner. While technology may present unique opportunities for program delivery, it cannot replace services delivered face-to-face, as, for example, some vulnerable clients may not have the language level to engage effectively in distance/online learning. In this regard, maintaining face-to-face delivery while providing alternate accessibility options, where appropriate, was identified as a priority. Address Need for Health and Mental Health Navigation/Services With increasing numbers of conflict-affected individuals and families arriving in the region, there is a great need to better support high need newcomers presenting with health and mental health issues. Although healthcare is a provincial responsibility, immigrant service providers are often the first point of contact for those newcomers who need assistance, but who are not yet able to access provinciallyfunded services. Moreover, there are often lengthy wait times for provincial healthcare services, thus the burden of responsibility falls on the service provider to provide interim services that will assist clients who are waiting for mainstream programming. Provision of interim health and mental health services will provide the necessary supports to help address any immediate concerns, as well as help facilitate newcomers transition to, and navigation of, provincial healthcare services in the Atlantic Region. Delivery of Pre-Arrival Services Delivery of pre-arrival services represents an important first step in the settlement process as it helps facilitate the social and economic integration of newcomers to Canada by addressing needs early in the integration continuum. Equally as important, pre-arrival services help facilitate the transition to the full range of services delivered by domestic Service Provider Organizations. In order to ensure a seamless transition to settlement services in the Atlantic Region, formal linkages between overseas and domestic service providers must be created and maintained. While it is important to ensure that newcomers have quality supports prior to their arrival, it is critical to recognize that effective and accessible post-arrival services remain key to ensuring a smooth transition to their new community. In this regard, maintaining and/or enhancing pre-arrival services were identified as a priority. 16

19 Theme 3: Language Training Priorities Maintain Current Language Programs Language is identified as a key factor in the integration of newcomers into Canadian society. The ability to communicate in English or French enables the clients to meet their needs and those of their families in everyday activities such as banking or shopping, to participate in community events, to gain employment, to access further training, and to become full members of Canadian society. Presently, Community Language (LINC) classes offer English instruction from literacy to LINC 7 (CLB 7). Stakeholders at the summit agreed that English for everyday living continues to be a priority, and that current language training programs should be maintained and expanded. Ensure Accessibility - Outreach and Rural Programs A variety of delivery models is necessary to ensure that newcomers can access language training in an easy and timely manner. The majority of community language classes both full- and part-time are currently offered during the day at a program location (school, community centre). Additional classes in the evening or weekends would be an important option for clients who work. Outreach programs offering one-on-one or small group instruction are needed to provide instruction for newcomers who cannot access regular Community Language programs, both in urban and non-urban areas, due to childcare or transportation issues. Provide Workplace and Business Language Finding employment is a major goal and need for many newcomers. Employment is included within the LINC curriculum guidelines, and basic vocabulary and tasks such as writing business s, creating resumes and answering interview questions are taught within the Community Language program. However, programs focussing on sector-specific workplace and business language, which would lead to improved performance in job-seeking and employment situations, were identified as a necessity for students at all levels, including literacy and lower CLB levels. Bridging programs, such as the ISANS Bridge to Work program, which blend language training, essential skill development, and industryrequired courses (such as food handling or WHMIS) are important links between the language classroom and the workplace. In the same way, programs which provide and support volunteer opportunities enable newcomers to integrate into the workplace in a safe and non-threatening manner and gain valuable Canadian experience. Programs offering training in workplace and business language, increased access to bridging programs, and volunteer opportunities were identified as funding priorities. Provide Support Services Program supports which allow newcomers to access language training continue to be identified as vital to the success of Community Language programs. A shortage of spaces for children under Care for Newcomer Children is creating waitlists, where parents are unable to attend classes even though there is space for them within the program. In all four Atlantic Provinces, additional childcare spaces are 17

20 required. In addition, continued support for transportation is needed, especially in Newfoundland and Labrador, where the public transit system is not dependable or easy-to-access. Provide Flexible Program Modalities When newcomers settle outside main urban centres, they face many challenges in accessing language training, including a lack of programs available in their area, the distance from public buildings such as libraries and community centres, a lack of childcare and/or transportation, and isolation. Some learners within the major cities face similar challenges. Flexible and accessible delivery modalities for language programs are required to meet these needs. Face-to-face language training through outreach programs is still a priority for these learners, whenever possible; however, additional options such as on-line programming, video, and distance education are also required. At present, one hundred and twenty-six of the one hundred and thirty seats assigned to the Atlantic Provinces through the LINC Home Study National Delivery are filled, with forty-two clients on the waitlist. Additional funding for LINC Home Study and other on-line and distance programs is required. Provide Services for Vulnerable Clients Community language programs are experiencing a growing need for services for clients from vulnerable populations. These include clients with visual and hearing issues, learning disabilities and cognitive impairment, mental illnesses, and clients who suffer from trauma. Community language instructors are struggling to identify factors which are interfering with the students ability to learn, in order to provide assistance within the program and/or referrals to outside supports. In addition, the need for literacy classes continues to be high. For students requiring literacy support, as well as clients requiring support for other special needs, program adaptations are needed, in terms of smaller class size, special equipment (such as a viewer for a visually-impaired student) and/or more flexible delivery modules. Another vulnerable group are seniors. Many seniors, because of their age and related health issues, are unable to access regular community language programs. In addition, they are often not successful language learners, even in one-on-one programs. Their needs tend to be better met through specialized programs such as conversation groups or social activities. Provide Services for Changing Client Profile: High Skill & Language Due to changes in Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) policy, clients who are principal applicants will now be required to have higher language levels (CLB 5 and above) when they enter Canada. They will no longer need basic language instruction to allow them to integrate and participate in the community, or for entry-level employment. However, they will require language and support to function effectively within the Canadian workplace, to access further educational opportunities, and/or to achieve professional qualifications. Language training at higher CLB levels (5-9) and specialized courses focusing on workplace writing and communications will be required. Community Language classes at the current CLB levels (literacy-7) will continue to be required to meet the needs of their spouses and other family members. 18

21 Address Eligibility Concerns Program eligibility was also recognized as a concern. Community Language classes are presently open to permanent residents only. Students who receive their Canadian citizenship are forced to stop their language training, even though their language may not be high enough to access further training and education, or to gain employment. Temporary Foreign Workers (TWFs) are unable to access language training and support; this lack of language training may result in isolation and increased vulnerability as TFWs are unable to participate and integrate into their community. Additional Concerns Raised Two issues were identified by the summit roundtable around citizenship. First, there is a high demand for citizenship preparation classes. Second, the requirement to have a CLB 4 in speaking and listening in order to apply for citizenship has created a demand for language classes, especially at the LINC 3 and 4 levels. This increased demand is causing wait lists at these levels, and many students are attending these classes only until they achieve the required scores. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is encouraged to review the options available to satisfy the language requirements for citizenship. This might include allowing certificates from other English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs aligned with the Canada Language Benchmark (CLBs) to be accepted as proof of language proficiency. In addition, Newfoundland and Labrador raised the concern about access to language assessment for citizenship purposes, as there is no Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) assessment centre in that province. On-going professional development for community language teachers, including cultural competency training, is important. Funding to allow this PD to happen, including funding to cover substitute teachers is required. The New Brunswick summit also identified the need for timely and affordable access to FSL assessment as a concern. 19

22 Theme 4: Labour Market Engagement and Attachment Priorities Maintain Client Employment Support Services Immigrants face specific challenges in preparing for employment in Canada which require expertise that goes beyond the services provided through generic employment services. These include negotiating the pathways to certification, preparing culturally appropriate resumes, being aware of appropriate business communication, interview skills and job search techniques- all of which are very specific to Canada. Foreign credential recognition can be a long and confusing process. Employment services for immigrants require a client centered approach that allows services to be tailored to meet individual needs and fill skill gaps for successful navigation of the certification process. Increasing access to employment programs should be considered and can be achieved by extending eligibility to international students who are on a pathway to permanence. This supports the priority of provinces to keep international graduates in their regions to meet skilled labour shortages. There is also an opportunity to offer some pre-employment services, including connecting to regulatory bodies, beginning the accreditation process and learning about working in Canada, before immigrants arrive in Canada. This enhances their chances of speedy entry into the job market. Stakeholders told us clients want programs and services that lead to a meaningful job. Timely, appropriate employment and workforce integration programs and services including enhanced communication and occupation specific language programs are essential for immigrants to connect to the labour market as quickly as possible and contribute to the Canadian economy. Being economically self sufficient and able to support their families is key to integration. Provide Employer Engagement & Support Programs Employer engagement and support programs have become more important as businesses strive to meet looming skill shortages. With the introduction of the Express Entry model, employers are reaching out to settlement organizations for information and assistance in ensuring that they are well positioned to take advantage of the process. Employers are seeking support in recruitment and hiring. Given the high percentage of small and medium size employers in the Atlantic, this is a particular area of concern. Employer support programs can also serve to reduce the risk to employers and make it more attractive for them to hire immigrants. For example through work placements, mentoring, wage subsidies, internships, etc., immigrants can get their foot in the door and employers get to assess an immigrant s skills and fit with their organization. As Canada s immigration strategy becomes more and more linked to economic outcomes it becomes imperative to ensure that employers are supported in their efforts to integrate immigrants as part of their workforce and are engaged in the settlement process. 20

23 The first step to employer engagement is education and creating awareness in the business community of the value and importance of increased immigration to the economy and future growth of the country. Provide Employment Supports/Services Facilitating labour market attachment is vital to assisting immigrant integration, promoting retention and ensuring that newcomers have the knowledge, skills, and competencies to function effectively within their local labour market. While some individuals may not necessarily require traditional settlement supports, they nonetheless require assistance in navigating the Canadian labour market. Such supports may extend beyond the work environment; for example, access to credible/current labour market information (which changes frequently) is critical in order to provide immigrants with targeted career and employment services to support pathways to meaningful work. Successful labour market attachment for the immigrant population is a reciprocal process, often requiring a collaborative approach among stakeholders to deliver quality programs and services. In this regard, maintaining and expanding immigrant employments supports was identified as a priority. Provide Bridging Programs and Sector-specific Programming Bridging programs for skilled immigrants have demonstrated their effectiveness in helping immigrants with labour market attachment. Immigrants in regulated professions have especially benefited from bridging programs that help them fill skill gaps in their accreditation journey and navigate the international qualifications challenges. Sector specific bridging programs in engineering, medicine, pharmacy, other allied health professions and technology fields are extremely helpful in facilitating immigrants to access their careers at commensurate levels. It is the goal of almost every immigrant and refugee to obtain employment and to be economically independent as quickly as possible. Bridging programs have historically been focussed on high skilled immigrants to access their professions but specific bridging programs geared towards entry level positions have also proven successful in helping refugees with lower language skills to obtain their first jobs in Canada. There is a need to expand these programs to help vulnerable populations enter the workforce. Changes in the temporary foreign worker program may create opportunities to facilitate literacy and lower skilled immigrants to obtain employment with bridging support. Provide Cultural Competency Training for Workplace The hope of the Express Entry model is that immigrants will receive job offers even before arriving. Ensuring both immigrants and the existing employees, supervisors and managers are culturally competent is a critical element of ensuring the success of the Express Entry model for employers. Stakeholders told us, there is an additional responsibility on employers to ensure their workplaces are welcoming and that staff are able to integrate new internationally educated employees. Requests from employers for training and education around cultural competency have been on the increase and 21

24 Service provider organizations (SPOs) are well positioned to be able to respond to these requests. Settlement organizations are trusted by employers and recognized for their expertise and unique understanding of immigrant needs and are thus often sought out by employers for advice in these areas. Having a culturally competent workforce contributes to productivity and a healthy workplace and will be an area of expanded demand as the Express Entry model comes on stream. Provide Self-Employment/Entrepreneur Programs Immigrants are three times more likely to become entrepreneurs or seek self employment than the average Canadian and are more likely to still be in business after 3 years. Some immigrants choose to become entrepreneurs because of the challenges of finding employment or they decide to try business as an alternative career choice given they have a new opportunity to do so in Canada. Immigrant entrepreneurs not only create jobs for themselves but for others. Starting a business is a challenge and doing so in a new country and culture is even more daunting. There is a role for Service provider organizations to play in providing initial orientation and start up guidance with a cultural lens to immigrants considering starting a business to maximize their likelihood of success. Service provider organizations enjoy a level of trust with immigrants that allow them to provide initial baseline information and orientation to potential immigrant entrepreneurs before referrals are made to mainstream business professional supports and services. 22

25 Atlantic Issues and Concerns As part of the summit consultation process, a number of issues which impact our region were identified that do not necessarily relate to settlement priorities, but are part of the context in which immigrant settlement is taking place in the Atlantic Region. Low Immigration Numbers The Atlantic Region does not receive the number of immigrants proportional to its population. Each Atlantic province is interested in increasing immigration and there is a strong settlement infrastructure in place to respond to increased numbers. Provincial Nominee Program Caps The percentage of immigrants coming into the Atlantic Region, who are provincial nominees, is higher than anywhere else in the country. The Atlantic provinces have been negatively affected by the federal caps on provincial nominees. Regional Employment Rate/Opportunities At a number of the summit stakeholder meetings, the impact of regional employment rates on the attraction and the retention of immigrants was discussed. The disparity between urban and rural employment rates was also noted in relation to attracting immigrants to areas outside major urban centres in the Atlantic. Regional Attraction/Retention Linked to the high percentage of immigrants coming into the region through the provincial nominee programs and the attached caps, the ability to attract additional immigrants is challenging. Retention in most areas has increased over the last few years but is still low in some provinces (eg. PEI at around 40%) Impact of Federal Policy/Program Changes on Smaller Provinces/Regions The smaller size of the Atlantic provinces, often means, there is only one or two major settlement service providers in an area. Historically, they have had to respond to all settlement needs that have arisen, and have also played additional roles such as advocacy, convening, and coordination. The impact of federal program initiatives can fail to take into consideration the different contexts of smaller jurisdictions and their different skills, connections and roles. e.g. alternative career initiative. While there is support in the region for the Pan-Canadian Framework for settlement and integration, participants acknowledged a need for a model that responds to the unique nature of the Atlantic Region. 23

26 Section 2: CAIF Summary of Recommendations Recognize and enhance the initiatives led by community organizations working to support the settlement of French-speaking immigrants Follow-up/Recommendation 1 Acknowledge the importance of continuing to provide financial support for the efforts already initiated by community organizations working to help welcome, integrate and settle French-speaking newcomers. Provide ongoing funding to enable organizations to maintain and enhance their services and programs. Follow-up/Recommendation 2 a) That CIC acknowledge the important role that Francophone Immigration Networks (RIF) and Acadian and Francophone community service providers play in terms of providing services to newcomers. b) That CIC clarify how it envisions the role of the private sector in terms of collaborating on the integration and settlement of newcomers and refugees, as stated in its call for proposals dated September 24, Changes to tools for recruiting French-speaking immigrants Follow-up/Recommendation 3 Communities will continue to encourage CIC for a tool or program to replace the Avantage significatif francophone Program. Follow-up/Recommendation 4 Communities are requesting that CIC specify how Express Entry will help them recruit French-speaking/bilingual immigrants. Client eligibility for services under existing funding criteria Follow-up/Recommendation 5 Broaden the client base eligible for services under CIC funding criteria or put new programs in place to serve temporary immigrants who wish to immigrate permanently. 24

27 Increased collaboration among organizations providing services to immigrants Follow-up/Recommendation 6 a) The call for proposals criteria should be formulated in a manner that acknowledges the importance of both aspects of immigrant services social integration and economic integration by respecting and taking full advantage of the fields of expertise of various community organizations. b) That CIC clarify funding restrictions and expected outcomes in order to foster the "sharing" of clients when different types of services or training are offered. For example, Francophone clients who wish to attend English classes but could receive the rest of their integration services in French, or Frenchspeaking refugees who could benefit from services offered in French. Theme 1 Essential Settlement Services Follow-up/Recommendation 7 Funding criteria must remain flexible to ensure that services are based on and adapted to the needs of immigrants and their family members, based on their profile and the region where they live. There is also a need for a special focus on delivering services in rural regions and to clients who are more vulnerable or who have complex needs. Follow-up/Recommendation 8 Participation in international recruitment activities should be eligible for funding under the CIC framework. This would enable the Acadian and Francophone community to take part in international recruitment forums and events each year; it would also contribute to maintaining the community s visibility at key recruitment fairs. Follow-up/Recommendation 9 Support projects that use joint kiosks, web portals or web sites hosted by organizations that provide services to Francophones to provide potential immigrants with information. However, funding for immigrant coaching or support services should be maintained, and indeed increased, in order to ensure personal contact with clients. Follow-up/Recommendation 10 That CIC explore the possibility of distributing information on the French-language services available to immigrants as soon as they receive their permanent residency letter of acceptance or when they are invited to attend a pre-departure information session. That CIC inform service providers in each province of the number of permanent residents accepted in their respective provinces. Follow-up/Recommendation 11 That CIC look favourably on applications for funding to form Francophone Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs). 25

28 Theme 2 Language Training Follow-up/Recommendation 12 Initiatives to encourage the settlement of French-speaking immigrants should foster and fund the assessment, learning and development of language skills in both official languages in order to facilitate client integration both into the labour market and within Acadian and Francophone communities in Atlantic Canada. Follow-up/Recommendation 13 Increase the number of conversation-group seats available. Put additional funding in place to respond to the huge demand and enable participation at all language skill levels (from beginner to advanced). Theme 3 The Labour Market Follow-up/Recommendation 14 Better identify the labour needs in Acadian and Francophone regions to foster a better fit between the financial support provided by funding bodies and the capacity of community organizations to develop and implement programs and services that meet the needs identified. Follow-up/Recommendation 15 Maintain and enhance current projects and initiatives that target immigrant employees, employers and entrepreneurs. Follow-up/Recommendation 16 Continue to work with professional orders and associations to obtain recognition of foreign credentials. Follow-up/Recommendation 17 Inform immigrants of their human rights by providing them with information on rights and standards (e.g. health and safety and labour standards). Follow-up/Recommendation 18 Continue to work with immigrant entrepreneurs by: a) Ensuring that efforts to recruit immigrant entrepreneurs target specific markets in order to ensure the recruitment of those immigrant entrepreneurs with the best chance of succeeding within Acadian and Francophone communities; b) Increase subsidies and services to foster entrepreneurship among immigrants and target specific demographic groups (women, for example); c) Strengthen existing entrepreneurial support and mentoring services to fit with the continuum of immigrant entrepreneur integration. Follow-up/Recommendation 19 Encourage potential immigrants to make an exploratory visit or accept an internship before they immigrate, in addition to increasing the level of funding available for and improving the organization of exploratory visits. 26

29 Theme 4 Welcoming Communities Follow-up/Recommendation 20 Increase efforts to raise awareness of the merits of immigration in Acadian and Francophone (and Anglophone) communities. Work to ensure that the messages reach the communities and are likely to "stick"; the messages must be embedded into the socio-cultural fabric of the communities. Encourage partners to actively contribute to settlement initiatives. Follow-up/Recommendation 21 Provide potential immigrants with an accurate image of the Atlantic provinces in terms of linguistic duality, the bilingual labour market, the climate, the realities in rural areas and opportunities for jobs and entrepreneurship. 27

30 Provincial Consultations in French Background In the fall of 2014 (from September to November inclusive), the CAIF held provincial consultation sessions in French in each of the four Atlantic provinces. On November 13, 2014, it also took part in the bilingual Regional Summit organized to set priorities for the next three to five years regarding the settlement of Francophone immigrants throughout Atlantic Canada. In parallel with the consultations in French, the Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (ARAISA) conducted similar provincial consultations, at the same time and in English, for English-speaking stakeholders. CAIF and ARAISA worked closely with each other to ensure that the consultations were conducted in a similar manner and addressed the same themes. The issues, needs and priorities identified during the Francophone consultations were used to make recommendations to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). These recommendations are intended to guide the next CIC Settlement Program call for proposals process. The recommendations proposed by ARAISA are listed in Section 1. The consultation summit held in the fall of 2014 enabled CAIF and ARAISA to identify common issues and priorities for Atlantic Canada that the two organizations could address by working together. The consultations and the Regional Summit were made possible with funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada. The CAIF would like to thank the CIC Atlantic Region office for its leadership in recognizing the importance of leading consultation processes in both official languages and holding a bilingual Regional Summit. Consultation Process The CAIF collaborated with the coordinators of each of Atlantic Canada's Francophone Immigration Networks, CIC and representatives from the offices of immigration of each of the four Atlantic Canadian provincial governments to identify the stakeholders to be invited to take part in the consultations. The invited stakeholders are directly involved in providing settlement services to French-speaking immigrants or have in-depth knowledge of the sector. In addition to CAIF members, the participants included representatives from: Organizations in the Atlantic region who receive CIC funding to provide settlement services to French-speaking immigrants; Municipal governments; Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs); Community associations/organizations that work in the newcomers settlement sector; Citizenship and Immigration Canada; Local businesses and entrepreneurs. 28

31 The four following themes were identified as the topics to be discussed at each of the provincial consultations; they mirror the four pillars of integration identified by CIC: Essential settlement services; Language training; Labour market; Welcoming communities. The rural context in the Atlantic provinces and the challenges/issues related to developing and delivering services to French-speaking immigrants were taken into consideration with respect to each of the themes. The questions put to the participants at the four consultation sessions are listed in the Appendix. A web-based form was also developed to accept feedback from stakeholders who were unable to attend and to enable participants to follow-up on additional points or clarification after the consultation sessions. A report was drafted on the results of each of the consultation sessions and can be consulted for a more detailed picture of the needs, issues and priorities in each province as well as the proposed solutions. The reports were used to identify the common issues, needs and priorities in Atlantic Canada's Acadian and Francophone communities and to make the recommendations listed below. Consultation participants (48 participants): St. John's (NL) - September 25, ; Halifax/Dartmouth (NS) - September 26, ; Summerside (PEI) - October 3, ; Shediac (NB) - October 23,

32 Results of the Provincial Consultations Combined Results Since the early 2000s, organizations that work to facilitate the welcoming, integration and settlement of French-speaking newcomers have been established within Atlantic Canada's Acadian and Francophone community. Through the work they do on the ground, these organizations know their community well the needs, the issues and the success stories and have developed expertise in delivering services and programs. These community organizations work to provide services in an efficient and innovative manner. In addition, they carry out a second mandate: that of contributing to the development of the Acadian and Francophone community in their respective provinces. Significant socio-economic and demographic changes have made immigration a priority, within the framework of more overall efforts targeting demographic growth. The objective is to maintain (or increase) the demographic ratio of the Acadian and Francophone community and, in doing so, contribute to its long-term vitality through maintaining the current population numbers and the existing socio-cultural, economic and educational structures. While immigration is one way to mitigate these demographic and socio-economic trends, it is also a means of ensuring that population diversity and being open to the world are features of Acadian and Francophone communities. Follow-up/Recommendation 1 Acknowledge the importance of continuing to provide financial support for the efforts already initiated by community organizations working to help welcome, integrate and settle French-speaking newcomers. Provide ongoing funding to enable organizations to maintain and build on their services and programs. Atlantic Canada's Acadian and Francophone community is concerned about the call for private sector proposals launched by CIC on September 24, 2014, for the purpose of collaborating on the integration and settlement of newcomers and refugees. The community emphasizes the importance of a "for and by Francophones" approach. This sort of approach involves offering services to French-speaking immigrants that are adapted to the needs and realities of this specific clientele and are delivered by community organizations that offer settlement services to Francophones and have in-depth knowledge of the realties in their community. The community also questions whether the private sector has the motivation, in the absence of significant financial incentives, to ensure that French-speaking immigrants are integrated into the Acadian and Francophone community. Follow-up/Recommendation 2 a) That CIC acknowledge the important role that Francophone Immigration Networks (RIFs) and Acadian and Francophone community service providers play in terms of providing services to newcomers. b) That CIC clarify how it envisions the role of the private sector in terms of collaborating on the 30

33 integration and settlement of newcomers and refugees, as stated in its call for proposals dated September 24, The elimination of the Avantage significatif francophone Program deprives Atlantic Canada's Acadian and Francophone community of a tool that facilitates the recruitment of employers willing to hire French-speaking/bilingual immigrants. Follow-up/Recommendation 3 Communities will continue to encourage CIC for a tool or program to replace the Advantage significatif francophone Program. It remains to be seen how the computerized Express Entry system to be implemented in 2015 will facilitate the recruitment of French-speaking/bilingual immigrant employees. Follow-up/Recommendation 4 Communities are requesting that CIC specify how Express Entry will help them recruit Frenchspeaking/bilingual immigrants. Temporary immigrants are a potential source of permanent Francophone immigration. Organizations should be able to serve: Temporary workers; International students; French-speaking refugees. Follow-up/Recommendation 5 Broaden the client base eligible for services under CIC funding or put new programs in place to serve temporary immigrants who wish to immigrate permanently. CIC's funding criteria and expected outcomes sometime create an atmosphere of "competition" among Francophone organizations and between Francophone and Anglophone organizations. Three factors heighten the competition: a) the restricted criteria for some initiatives that specifically target economic immigration without taking into consideration the social integration of immigrants; b) the strong emphasis on the number of clients served as a measure of an organization's performance; c) funding for learning and developing language skills is limited to a single official language. On the one hand, the restricted criteria for some initiatives that specifically target economic immigration (labour force integration, entrepreneurship, working with employers, etc.) do not always take social integration into consideration. Service providers who wish to apply for funding must all meet the same criteria in order to be eligible under funding program criteria. Consequently, the mandates of organizations with expertise in welcoming and social integration, for example, must overlap (or compete with) the mandates of other organizations with expertise in economic development if they wish to 31

34 access programs and play a role in providing social integration services. Program criteria must be expanded to include social integration as a complement to economic integration so that organizations that specialize in these two aspects of integration can work together to ensure immigrant retention. On the other hand, organizations that provide services in French have noted the lack of a formal mechanism, within organizations that provide services in English, for systematically referring Frenchspeaking clients to a Francophone organization. This may be impacted by the emphasis placed on the number of clients served by an organization as recorded in outcomes reports submitted to funding bodies. From this perspective, an Anglophone organization may be reluctant to refer a French-speaking client to a Francophone service provider because it could reduce the number of clients served by that Anglophone organization during the reporting period. The emphasis on the number of clients served as the "ultimate" measure of performance, combined with Settlement Program criteria that provide funding for learning and developing language skills in one official language only, could also limit the role played by Francophone organizations. French-speaking immigrants who wish to improve their English-language skills in order to more easily access the bilingual job market could, for example, be referred to Anglophone service and training providers. Referring clients to an Anglophone service provider not only removes them from the client list of a Francophone organization, it also endangers their future integration into the Acadian and Francophone community. (See the results from Theme 2 below.) In addition, as French-language service providers are unable to welcome and serve Francophone refugees in the four Atlantic provinces, they are referred to Anglophone service providers. This potentially threatens their integration into the Acadian and Francophone community because these refugees become integrated into Anglophone activities without necessarily being informed of the availability of Francophone activities. Better collaboration between Francophone and Anglophone organizations working in all sectors must be encouraged and initiated by forming and maintaining partnerships. This could have a positive impact on the climate of competition and, ultimately, the immigrants would benefit from services and programs that meet their needs. Follow-up/Recommendation 6 a) The call for proposals criteria should be formulated in a manner that acknowledges the importance of both aspects of immigrant services social integration and economic integration by respecting and taking full advantage of the fields of expertise of various community organizations. b) That CIC clarify funding restrictions and expected outcomes in order to encourage the "sharing" of clients when different types of services or training are offered. For example, Francophone clients who wish to attend English classes but may wish to receive the rest of their integration services in French, or French-speaking refugees who could benefit from services offered in French. 32

35 Theme 1 Essential Settlement Services The needs of newcomers vary based on their profile and the geographic region where they live. A higher level of need has been identified in rural areas where welcoming and settlement services are lacking. Immigrants do live in rural areas, but services and structures are needed. If structures to serve immigrants did exist, immigrants would know where to go to access services. This is an indication that additional resources are needed in order to provide services in these areas. While immigrants may be successful in accessing the labour market, social integration may be lacking. Geographical and social isolation must also be addressed in terms of the delivery of settlement services. When it comes to working with clients, social integration is just as important as integration into the job market. With regards to immigrant profiles, the needs of highly qualified immigrants are relatively few in number as compared with temporary foreign workers, for example, who depend on their jobs and their employers. This is a reality that may put some individuals in vulnerable situations. As for refugees, they have more complex economic and social needs and therefore require more comprehensive support. Lastly, some clients or groups such as women, youth, or those who accompany Provincial Nominee Program applicants may have more specific needs. Follow-up/Recommendation 7 Funding criteria must remain flexible to ensure that services address and are adapted to the needs of immigrants and their family members based on their profile and the region where they live. There is also a need for a special focus on delivering services in rural regions and to clients who are more vulnerable or who have complex needs. The varying availability of funding for community organizations to take part in international recruitment activities makes it difficult to ensure the uniformity of recruitment efforts. Francophone community organizations are often at the whim of provincial governments and the availability of funding. If the Acadian and Francophone community is not visible to key international markets or during such events, it risks losing immigrants to regions that make significant promotion and recruitment efforts. It is also important that secondary migration recruitment activities not be neglected. For example, an immigrant who arrives in Montreal but wishes to live in a rural Francophone area could be an excellent candidate for migration to an Acadian and Francophone community in Atlantic Canada. Follow-up/Recommendation 8 Participation in international recruitment activities should be eligible for funding under the CIC framework. This would enable the Acadian and Francophone community to take part in international recruitment forums and events each year; it would also contribute to maintaining the community s visibility at key recruitment fairs. Making use of a joint kiosk, portal or web site hosted by Francophone organizations in the same province in order to provide immigrants with information could reduce the confusion that immigrants can experience when navigating an environment that features a number of different organizations. 33

36 In addition to electronic means of disseminating information, the role of the coach can be instrumental in guiding immigrants to the services available to them and should not be neglected as this person ensures personal contact with immigrants and their family members. Follow-up/Recommendation 9 Support projects that use joint kiosks, web portals or web sites hosted by organizations that serve Francophones in order to provide potential immigrants with information. In addition, funding for immigrant coaching or support services should be maintained, and indeed increased, in order to ensure personal contact with clients. It is important that potential immigrants be aware that services in French are available and that they know how to access them as soon as possible, even before they arrive in Atlantic Canada. Follow-up/Recommendation 10 That CIC explore the possibility of distributing information about the French-language services available to immigrants as soon as they receive their permanent residency letter of acceptance or when they are invited to attend a pre-departure information session. CIC should also inform service providers in each province of the number of permanent residents accepted in their respective provinces. In some rural areas, and indeed in some Acadian and Francophone communities that do not constitute independent geopolitical entities (i.e. in a city or municipality), local partners are most eager to welcome immigrants and create an environment that is conducive to their integration. Funding for Francophone Local Immigration Partners (LIPs) would facilitate the establishment of a solid synergy between community and municipal actors; it would also support LIP activities. Follow-up/Recommendation 11 That CIC look favourably on applications for funding to form Francophone Local Immigration Partnerships (LIPs). Theme 2 Language Training The bilingual aspect of Atlantic Canada's economic and social environments is both an asset that offers businesses the competitive advantage of a bilingual work force, and a challenge that involves meeting the language training needs of immigrants in both official languages, namely English and French. However, CIC funding currently supports language skills training and development in one official language only. Anglophone organizations focus on clients learning and developing language skills in one language only. But for Francophone service providers, French-language training facilitates integration into the Acadian and Francophone community, while English-language training is necessary for the economic integration of immigrants. Requiring immigrants to choose one language over the other has an impact on client 34

37 retention for Francophone organizations and on the future integration of immigrants into the Acadian and Francophone community. Referring Francophone clients to an Anglophone organization because they wish to improve their English-language skills for better integration into the work force could compromise their future integration into the Acadian and Francophone community if they assimilate into the Anglophone community. It is essential that clients of Francophone organizations in all four Atlantic provinces be provided with language training in both official languages; alternatively, mechanisms must be put in place to refer those clients to existing language-training services and provide the funding necessary to do so. The language-training schedule must be flexible in order to enable individuals who work during the day to take advantage of the classes. For example, classes offered at night or on weekends. Support services for registered clients (e.g. child-care services) may facilitate client participation. Training courses could also be offered to immigrant family members who may also be experiencing language difficulties that could hamper social or economic integration. In addition, it is crucial that Francophone service providers be allocated funding for the purpose of conducting language skills assessments in both official languages or be provided with the means and the funding to refer their clients to existing assessments services in provinces where such services are not available through Francophone service providers. Follow-up/Recommendation 12 Initiatives to encourage the settlement of French-speaking immigrants should foster and finance the assessment, learning and development of language skills in both official languages in order to facilitate client integration both into the labour market and within Acadian and Francophone communities in Atlantic Canada. We have noted that there is a high demand for conversation groups. However, this type of training should continue to be offered as a complement to more structured language courses. The latter provide clients with a good command of the language, and helps with integration into the work force. Conversation groups are still a good way to foster cross-cultural interaction. Partnerships formed between organizations, training institutes and employers could facilitate the organization of conversation groups. Follow-up/Recommendation 13 Increase the number of conversation-group seats available. Put additional funding in place to respond to the huge demand and enable participation at all language skill levels (from beginner to advanced). 35

38 Theme 3 The Labour Market Identifying worker shortages and labour market needs in Acadian and Francophone regions would allow for a better fit between the funding available from funding bodies and the capacity of community organizations to put in place programs and services adapted to the identified shortages and needs. Some clients who are not eligible for settlement services are among the most in-demand types of workers required in some rural areas, e.g. temporary workers Follow-up/Recommendation 14 Better identify the labour needs in Acadian and Francophone regions to foster a better fit between the financial support provided by funding bodies and the capacity of community organizations to develop and implement programs and services that meet the needs identified. Offering immigrants and employers a complete range of services geared to accessing the job market would foster the economic integration of the immigrant population. The economic landscape in Atlantic Canada largely consists of small and medium-size businesses (SMEs) that do not necessarily have access to large human resource teams to oversee the recruitment or integration of immigrant employees. Such businesses benefit from the economic integration support community organizations can provide. It is essential to work with employers before immigrants join their teams and to work with them in the short, medium and long term to meet their labour needs and educate them about the merits of hiring immigrant employees. In areas with high unemployment rates, businesses are sometimes unable to meet their labour needs. However, if these businesses hire immigrants to fill job vacancies, the local community may reproach them for doing so. There is potential for the community to stigmatize these businesses and this could discourage them from hiring immigrant employees. Follow-up/Recommendation 15 Maintain and enhance current projects and initiatives that target immigrant employees, employers and entrepreneurs. To facilitate and accelerate immigrant integration into the job market, it would be beneficial, in terms of pre-departure services, to provide immigrants with as much information as possible regarding the recognition of foreign credentials. Immigrants must be encouraged to contact professional orders and associations before they immigrate. Doing so before they arrive could save them time and frustration. In the meantime, community organizations must continue to work with professional orders and associations with a view to obtaining recognition of foreign credentials. 36

39 Follow-up/Recommendation 16 Continue to work with professional orders and associations to obtain recognition for foreign credentials. Cultural differences can be such that some immigrants may hesitate to openly question dubious situations from fear of appearing ungrateful or because they do not wish to "complain". Employer loyalty on the part of immigrants is both positive and challenging. Immigrants may feel obliged to stay, or may be under the (false) impression that career progression is possible within the company if they work hard and do not change jobs. Immigrants may feel guilty (and this may be amplified by cultural differences) about leaving their employer or may fear that their colleagues will find out they are looking for another job. This reality must be taken into consideration in terms of providing economic integration services to immigrants and providing employers with recruitment assistance services. Follow-up/Recommendation 17 Inform immigrants of their human rights by sending them information on rights and standards (e.g. health and safety and labour standards). Immigrant entrepreneurs do not necessarily arrive in Atlantic Canada primarily as entrepreneurs. It is essential to continue to make immigrants aware that entrepreneurship may be a means of survival for those who are interested in or predisposed to entrepreneurship. Immigrants could be informed of this option before or after they arrive. Partnering with chambers of commerce, Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs), Réseaux de développement économique et d'employabilité (francophone economic development and employability networks), Business Immigrant Mentorship Programs (BIMPs), etc. facilitates the delivery of services to immigrant entrepreneurs. Follow-up/Recommendation 18 Continue to work with immigrant entrepreneurs by: a) Ensuring that efforts to recruit immigrant entrepreneurs target specific markets in order to ensure the recruitment of those immigrant entrepreneurs with the best chance of succeeding in Acadian and Francophone communities; b) Increase subsidies and services to foster entrepreneurship among immigrants, and target specific demographic groups (women, for example); c) Strengthen existing entrepreneurial support and mentoring services to fit with the continuum of immigrant entrepreneur integration. Exploratory visits or internship placements in Atlantic Canada are good options for immigrants to experience and learn about what Atlantic Canada has to offer. 37

40 Follow-up/Recommendation 19 Encourage potential immigrants to make an exploratory visit or accept an internship before they immigrate, in addition to increasing the level of funding available for and improving the organization of exploratory visits. Theme 4 Welcoming Communities Organizations need to make a concerted effort to raise awareness of how Acadian and Francophone communities can benefit from immigration. It is important to make every effort to ensure not only that the messages reach the communities, but also that they will "stick"; i.e. they must be embedded into the socio-cultural fabric of the communities. (Raising awareness = disseminating information on a very large scale; education = providing information, targeting specific groups and doing outreach work.) Organizations that work with immigrants must also encourage their partners to get actively involved in helping them carry out their mandate of fostering the settlement of French-speaking immigrants. Follow-up/Recommendation 20 Work to raise awareness of how Acadian and Francophone communities can benefit from immigration. Work to ensure that the messages not only reach the communities, but also that they are likely to "stick"; the messages must be embedded into the socio-cultural fabric of the communities. Encourage partners to actively contribute to settlement initiatives. In terms of promoting Atlantic Canada as a destination of choice for French-speaking immigrants, it is important to provide them with an accurate picture of the Atlantic Provinces with respect to linguistic duality and the bilingual job market, the climate, the realities in rural areas, and opportunities for jobs and entrepreneurship. It is also important to publicize, share and celebrate settlement and integration success stories in order to encourage immigrants to settle here. Follow-up/Recommendation 21 Provide potential immigrants with an accurate image of the Atlantic Provinces in terms of linguistic duality and the bilingual job market, the climate, the realities in rural areas and opportunities for jobs and entrepreneurship. 38

41 CAIF Annexe A - Questions THÈME 1 - Les services d établissement essentiels Quels services d'établissement de base, existants ou non, sont-ils nécessaires pour les immigrants, en tenant en considération le contexte rural de la province et les changements à venir (p. ex. : Entrée Express, changement de pays d origine des immigrants, etc.)? Comment pouvons-nous faire en sorte que tous les nouveaux arrivants soient au courant des programmes et des services qui sont à leur disposition, surtout les programmes et les services en français? THÈME 2 - La formation linguistique Toujours en tenant compte du contexte rural de la province : Quelle(s) formation(s) linguistique(s) de base les immigrants doivent-ils suivre et maintenir? De quelles façons les services et programmes actuels de formation linguistique devraient-ils être améliorés ou élargis pour aborder les changements aux profils des immigrants (compétences linguistiques plus élevées) et les changements aux politiques sur l'immigration? Y en a-t-il à ajouter ou à retirer? THÈME 3 Le marché du travail Toujours en tenant compte du contexte rural de la province : Quels obstacles les nouveaux arrivants doivent-ils surmonter lorsqu'ils cherchent un emploi? Y a-t-il des services et des programmes d'emploi nécessaires aux immigrants qui devraient être modifiés, retirés ou ajoutés? Quels défis doivent relever les employeurs lorsqu'ils considèrent embaucher des immigrants? Qu'est-il nécessaire pour appuyer les entrepreneurs immigrants dans le démarrage et l'exploitation d'une entreprise? THÈME 4 - Les communautés accueillantes Toujours en tenant compte du contexte rural de la province : De quelles façons les initiatives et les programmes actuels pour bâtir des communautés accueillantes devraient-ils être améliorés ou élargis pour aborder les changements aux profils des immigrants et les changements aux politiques sur l'immigration? Y en a-t-il à ajouter ou à retirer? 39

42 THÈME 4 - Les communautés accueillantes (suite) Comment pouvons-nous mobiliser la communauté dans son ensemble pour appuyer l'établissement et l'intégration des nouveaux arrivants? Quels secteurs de la communauté sont-ils les plus difficiles à mobiliser? Pourquoi? Comment s'assurer que les services d'établissement répondent également aux besoins de la communauté d accueil? 40

43 ARAISA Appendix 1. ARAISA Powerpoint presented at November Regional Summit Meeting 41