Retention /

Recommendation: The Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism of Newfoundland and Labrador should create a centralized directory of translation services that refugees and other interested parties can independently access. [...] Recommendation: The Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism of Newfoundland and Labrador should provide greater supports to immigrants and refugees proceeding with licensing/certification processes. [...] For example, in 2016, refugees constituted 27.3 per cent of the overall immigrant intake in Newfoundland and Labrador, while the share of refugees in the provinces with the highest absolute numbers for new arrivals to Canada – Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia – were 18.1 per cent, 13.4 per cent, and 10.8 per cent respectively (IRCC 2017a). [...] Teixeira and Li (2009) argue that the presence of a ‘welcoming community’ in a new society is a prerequisite for the successful social and cultural integration of immigrants. [...] One of the biggest barriers faced by refugees in finding suitable housing, employment, and building social capital is the level of racism and discrimination they face upon arrival (Department of Immigration and Border Protection, 2014).