Newfoundland and Labrador is continuing to lobby for a stronger provincial role in economic immigration.

This province has long sought greater control over immigration to better meet its professional and workforce needs.

The Department of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development says it wants more allocations for Newfoundland and Labrador under the Provincial Nominee Program to better meet labour market needs.

The department says provincially-driven immigration programs have seen successful in attracting and retaining newcomers and play an “important role in meeting workforce needs” and building the population.

Minister Lin Paddock is the co-chair of the Forum of Ministers responsible for Immigration.

The province is working with the federal, provincial and territorial governments on a collaborative approach to immigration “that recognizes national priorities, while providing greater flexibility for provinces and territories.”