Metropolis is an international network for comparative research and public policy development on migration, diversity, and immigrant integration in cities in Canada and around the world Search image1 Search image3
Search image2

The International Metropolis Project is a forum for bridging research, policy and practice on migration and diversity.
The Project aims to enhance academic research capacity, encourage policy-relevant research on migration and diversity issues,
and facilitate the use of that research by governments and non-governmental organizations.
 
nav line Home nav line About Us nav line Research and Policy nav line Events nav line Partners nav line Publications nav line Contact Us
  
  Speech [X] Close Window  

 

 

SPEAKING NOTES

Deputy Minister Val Mitchell

 

 

fifth international metropolis conference

 

 

November 13th 2000

6pm

Vancouver Convention and

Exhibition Centre

Parkview Terrace Room

Vancouver

  • It is a great pleasure to be here this evening.
  • On behalf of BC's Minister of Multiculturalism and Immigration Sue Hammell, I would like to welcome Madame Minister Elinor Caplan, honoured guests and delegates to the 5th International Metropolis Conference, to beautiful British Columbia, and this great culturally diverse province.
  • British Columbia is the only provincial jurisdiction within Canada with a free-standing Ministry of Multiculturalism and Immigration.
  • Our goal is to become a model for a successful multicultural society here in Canada and on the global stage.
  • Gatherings such as this one, are critical to our overall success in achieving this goal.
  • I want to congratulate the Metropolis project for the work done as we begin the 5th conference.
  • I also want to acknowledge the leadership the Metropolis Project has shown in building an exceptional international network of researchers, policymakers and academics, and non-government organizations.
  • In a time of limited resources for important research priorities, the need for strong research partnerships have never been greater.
  • That is why the work we undertake with our academic and research partners here is so important.
  • We need to clearly define the questions. and forge towards policy directions that answer those questions. respect the changing needs of a host country or community. and provide strong support to newcomers.
  • MMI has participated keenly both at the management board and research committee level in the Vancouver Metropolis Project.
  • We are proud of this partnership and look forward to continuing with this commitment.
  • In 1998, Canada and BC negotiated the Agreement for Canada-British Columbia Co-operation allowing BC a greater say in how we attract new immigrants.
  • The agreement transferred regional settlement services to BC, assisting us in targeting communities that needed settlement services the most.
  • In addition, we have piloted the Settlement Services Information System (SSIS).
  • This database will be utilized for funding evaluations, statistical analysis, agency management and research on the impact of services on immigrant integration.
  • SSIS will assist us in building a standardized network of settlement service throughout the province.
  • We also launched our multicultural community profiles Website, offering users a snapshot of BC's linguistic and cultural diversity for more than 600 communities.
  • In encourage all of you, during your coffee breaks to check both sites out at our booth.
  • It is important for all of us to look within our communities to find ways to enhance opportunities for new immigrants.
  • I am confident that this week will provide delegates a chance to generate healthy discussions on the critical themes of immigration and settlement.
  • I look forward to the conference proceedings to guide our work to make B.C. a successful model of multiculturalism and settlement services.

 

  • Thank you.

 

Home | About Us | Research and Policy | Events | Partners | Publications | Contact Us