The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills:

There is absolutely no doubt a new chapter is being written in our province’s storied history and, Speaker, all of us are helping to write it. For decades we have been facing down an almost insurmountable challenge. For decades, our population has been shrinking due to a demographic reality that has been difficult to correct.

Well Speaker, when Newfoundlanders and Labradorians see a challenge, one that allows their generosity, their progressiveness and their hardworking attitude to shine through, a solution will be found. And Speaker, the solution has been found.

I am pleased to report to the House that, for the last seven consecutive quarters, Statistics Canada is reporting the population of our neighborhoods has grown by over 12,000 people. For the first time in 50 years, enrollment of children in our schools is increasing; not shrinking. This coming fall will see more children in schools for the second consecutive year.

Our internationally recognized Ukrainian Family Support efforts certainly support this result, but it is not its only driver.

Newfoundland and Labrador is actively welcoming talented refugees and asylum-seekers from South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and anywhere where systemic persecution exists. We are attracting new communities to call this their home. Today, Newfoundland and Labrador is home to a vibrant Muslim community at over 7,500 strong and growing. These are our doctors, our educators, our entrepreneurs, our frontline workers. These are people who are now embedded in the story of our future.

As testament to this success, I am pleased to inform the House that we have achieved a doubling of our yearly immigration spaces from 1,500 to 3,050 people. This, along with their families, represents a capacity of 6,700 newcomers nominated annually.

Newfoundland and Labrador is writing a new chapter. Speaker, I want to thank all Members of this House and all who support newcomers for helping to hold that pen and add to this story.