Quebec seeks more immigrants

Quebec's immigration department is implementing a plan to increase the number of immigrants it attracts annually. For 2007, it is estimated that the province will attract 45,000 new immigrants, a shortfall of 3000 compared to the present plan. By 2010, Quebec is seeking to increase this number to 55,000 immigrants annually in response to labour shortages and a declining birth rate.

The government has also pledged to improve its spending of approximately $200 million of federal funding designated for assistance of the integration of new immigrants into Quebec society.