Open Door Society open to changes to immigration

Saskatchewan’s minister of trade and immigration has put in a request to the federal government for more autonomy on immigration.

Premier Scott Moe made the announcement earlier this week, citing a similar model in Quebec as the inspiration.

It comes as the growth plan outlines increasing Saskatchewan’s population to 1.4 million people by 2030.

The Saskatoon Open Door Society helps newcomers settle into life once they arrive in Canada.

CEO Ali Abukar believes immigration is already a team effort between provincial and federal governments, but there can always be an improvement.

“There’s nothing wrong about the government of Saskatchewan asking to have more room to discuss and room to find ways to have a bit more say (in immigration),” he said.

For Abukar it would make sense to include groups like his, which helps support immigrants.

“It’s not only about allowing people to come here, but also to invest in support in people so that they can be on their feet and contribute to our economy,” he said.

Opposition NDP Leader Ryan Meili does have concerns with Quebec immigration model, specifically it’s new values test, which goes into effect in Jan.1.