FROM HOPE TO REALITY
The minister wields substantial authority within Canada’s immigration framework. This page offers a comprehensive overview of the minister’s role and responsibilities in shaping immigration policies and regulations.
The minister oversees the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which has a vital mission to:
Facilitate the arrival and integration of foreign nationals into Canada while maximizing their contributions and ensuring the health, safety, and security of Canadians.
Protect refugees and individuals with humanitarian needs.
Promote the values of Canadian citizenship, including its rights and responsibilities.
Foster multiculturalism.
Advance global migration policies that align with Canada’s immigration goals.
The minister’s authority is outlined in the Department of Citizenship and Immigration Act. Additionally, the minister is responsible for the Citizenship Act and collaborates with the Minister of Public Safety on the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
Key responsibilities of the immigration minister include:
Implementing the policy priorities set out in the mandate letter from the Prime Minister.
Entering agreements with provinces and territories to facilitate the welcoming and settlement of immigrants.
Establishing partnerships with other countries to further Canada’s immigration objectives.
Submitting an annual report on immigration to Parliament, along with an immigration levels plan.
Overseeing the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), which is an independent tribunal tasked with making informed decisions on immigration and refugee matters.
Managing Canada’s citizenship and passport programs.
Making decisions regarding exceptional immigration circumstances.
Canada has maintained a minister responsible for immigration for much of its history, reflecting the significant role immigration plays in the country’s economy and society.
When Canada was founded in 1867, it was sparsely populated and needed immigrants to foster economic growth and secure its borders. Today, despite a larger population, Canada faces ongoing demographic challenges, including one of the world’s oldest populations and very low birth rates. To address these issues, Canada aims to welcome high levels of immigration to boost population, labor force, and economic growth.
In addition to economic reasons, Canada embraces immigration for social purposes. Family reunification is a key aspect of Canadian values, as strong family units are seen as foundational to society. Furthermore, Canada extends its support to refugees and those in humanitarian need, underscoring its commitment to helping those who require assistance.
The presence of a dedicated immigration minister is essential for achieving Canada’s immigration policy goals. Alongside welcoming over 400,000 new immigrants annually, the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the minister oversee the entry of hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers, international students, and visitors each year. They also process hundreds of thousands of Canadian citizenship applications annually. Together, the IRCC and the immigration minister play a crucial role in shaping the future of Canada’s economy and society.
Marc Miller is currently Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. He previously held the position of Minister of Indigenous Services, having been appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2019. Since 2015, he has represented the Montreal riding of Ville-Marie—Le Sud-Ouest—Île-des-Soeurs as a member of the Liberal Party.
Miller is recognized for his dedication to understanding and embracing diverse cultures. Notably, he delivered his inaugural speech in the House of Commons entirely in Mohawk, marking a historic moment as the first time the language was spoken in Parliament since Confederation. He is also fluent in both English and French.
Before entering politics, Miller served in the Canadian Army at the young age of 16 and earned degrees in Civil and Commercial Law from McGill University. He practiced law at the Canadian firm Stikeman Elliott, working in Montreal, New York, and Stockholm.
An interesting fact about Miller is his long-standing friendship with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; they attended College Jean-de-Brébeuf in Montreal together, where he famously lent Trudeau a pencil during an advanced English class.
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