Atlantic Canada’s (Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador) share of immigration in 2007 was 2.4 per cent, the highest it has been since 1980. Although immigrant attraction and retention rates have improved over the past few decades, the numbers are still low, considering that the region constitutes 7.1 per cent of Canada’s total population.

According to the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council (APEC), short-term retention rates have improved significantly since the 1990’s and the Provincial Nomination Programs (PNP) have been helping to bolster immigration numbers. However, still more work needs to be done to keep newcomers in the area.

Prince Edward Island Premier Robert Ghiz says that all four Atlantic Provinces face the same issues when it comes to attracting and retaining newcomers. Many immigrants who settle in the region, eventually move on to larger Canadian cities.

The ministers responsible for immigration from the four provinces have begun talks aimed at developing a regional approach to immigration. Each of the jurisdictions has allocated some funding to a regional population strategy to address the declining birth rate and aging work force.

They hope to announce a multi-year deal this fall, in collaboration with the federal government.