Canada's new immigration minister says the Conservative Government does not plan to change the overall immigration target number, or restrict family reunification.

Tuesday, February 15, 2006 - In his first speech as Canada's newly-appointed Immigration Minister, Monte Solberg tackled the hot-button topic of provincial labour shortages. He is considering the idea of working directly with provinces and industries at focusing more effort in acquiring foreign skilled labour through the temporary work visa program.

Referring to regional work shortages Solberg said, "I don't think it's the overall number that's the issue," and continued by stating that it has more to do with the means immigrants use to enter the country. "Maybe ultimately if they're here for a time and they're doing a good job, well, permanently land them," he explained.

Solberg reiterated his party's initial priorities will be to cut the $490 landing fee; introduce new legislation to facilitate foreign adoptions; and create a new federal agency which will assist newcomers in attaining professional recognition of their foreign credentials.