"immigration"

Council is asked to formally support the Union of Quebec Municipalities (UMQ) in its advocacy against recent changes to immigration programs. The city aims to express concern that these policy shifts negatively impact the local labor market and the integration of foreign workers.

Council formally supported the Union of Quebec Municipalities (UMQ) in requesting that the Quebec and Canadian governments implement 'grandfather clauses' and flexible measures for foreign workers affected by recent program changes (PEQ and PTET), citing severe labor shortages in Gatineau.

An informational presentation regarding the *Accompagnement Québec* program, which is managed by the provincial Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) to support newcomers.

An informational presentation on strategies to encourage immigrants to settle and remain in the Gatineau region long-term.

A presentation was given on the 'Accompagnement Québec' program, a free, non-mandatory service designed to help immigrants integrate into Quebec society. The discussion covered eligibility, the role of immigration support agents, and challenges regarding wait times for French-language training in the Outaouais region.

A researcher from the Université du Québec en Outaouais presented a study on the factors favoring the long-term settlement of immigrants outside of Montreal. The discussion highlighted Gatineau's status as a major immigration hub, the challenges of overqualification, and the importance of regional retention strategies.

Partners discussed immigration agreements, upcoming anti-racism events, and challenges regarding the integration of newcomers, including the need for better support for socio-professional integration and French-language training.

The City is applying for provincial funding to support its 2025-2028 action plan regarding cultural diversity and social integration.

The commission reviewed the results of the 2021-2023 Cultural Diversity Action Plan, which was funded in partnership with the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI). The commission recommended that the City Council accept the report, noting the positive outcomes and the intent to develop a new 2025-2027 plan.

Information regarding upcoming forums on immigration and social development will be shared with commission members via email.

The city discusses the renewal of its diversity action plan, supported by an agreement with the provincial *ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration* (MIFI). This initiative aims to better integrate newcomers and promote diversity within the municipality.