The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement:
The Canadian economy has experienced one of the fastest recoveries from COVID-19 among advanced economies, but is now facing critical labour market shortages causing uncertainty for Canadian businesses and workers.
“On this 155th anniversary of Confederation, I wish all Canadians a very happy Canada Day. I also wish to extend a warm welcome to all those celebrating their first Canada Day as new Canadians, as well as to the thousands of Afghans and Ukrainians who have arrived over the last couple of months.”
The Government of Canada continues to work hard to resettle at least 40,000 Afghan nationals as quickly and safely as possible. For the over 16,270 Afghan refugees who have landed in Canada since last August, tomorrow’s festivities will mark their first Canada Day in their new communities.
The Government of Canada continues to work hard to resettle at least 40,000 Afghan nationals as quickly and safely as possible. Since August 2021, Canada has welcomed a total of 16,270 Afghan refugees, including over 3,800 school-aged children.
The Government of Canada recognizes the immense challenges faced by those fleeing conflict and is committed to improving access to vital mental health services for vulnerable newcomers. Since 1989, Kids Help Phone has provided free, 24/7, confidential mental health resources to young people across Canada.
