Provincial and federal Ministers responsible for immigration met today, and Saskatchewan’s Minister put forward a proposal for more provincial control. Jeremy Harrison, says Saskatchewan is asking for the same thing that Quebec has. Under the Quebec Accord, Quebec has the sole responsibility for the selection of immigrants destined to that province, while Canada has responsibility for their admission based on national security.

Harrison says, “Saskatchewan requires more autonomy and flexibility over immigration in order to meet its economic needs and address gaps in the labour market. Canada should be focusing its efforts on reducing processing times for applications and let the provinces select immigrants and ensure their effective settlement.”

He adds that the province is also looking for a higher Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program cap. Right now, it’s expected Saskatchewan will meet and exceed its current cap of 6,000, and without an increase, Harrison explains, international recruitment by employers will be delayed. The Accord would see a minimum of 13,000 positions allocated in the province through the program.