New immigration program designed to help newcomers gain permanent residency to launch in Northeast BC

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Smaller communities in Northeast B.C. are expected to benefit from a new immigration program aimed at addressing demand in the labour market. 

The Northeast BC Rural Community Immigration Pilot streamlines the process for employers across the Northeast to sponsor newcomers for permanent residency.

The program, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), will be implemented by Community Futures Peace Liard (CFPL) and Northern Lights College (NLC).

CFPL and NLC will co-lead community partners in guiding the program’s development, which will be done in partnership with local municipalities, chambers of commerce and immigrant settlement agencies.

“The key to the success of the project will be our local partnerships,” said Moira Green, general manager at CFPL.

According to a January 31st press release from CFPL, the program will improve economic immigration by creating pathways for skilled workers to get recruited and stay in the region.  

“This is a great new opportunity for our communities, as well as a huge attraction and retention tool for the Northeast,” said Scott Clerk, associate vice president of educational services for NLC.

Northeast BC was the only region in B.C. added to the program in this announcement. It will act as the regional hub alongside North Okanagan and West Kootenay, which were already included.

“Now the work begins, as we work to establish agreements and secure resources to ensure the success of this important project,” said Green. 

More information about the Northeast BC Rural Community Immigration Pilot can be found by contacting Green at mgreen@communityfuturespeaceliard.com or Darren Giersch, NLC’s director of marketing and communications, at media@nlc.bc.ca.