Podcast: Jennifer Watts On Nova Scotia’s One-Stop Shop For Immigrant Settlement
On the Insights podcast for the past couple of weeks, Don Mills and David Campbell have been talking about the importance of growing the population of Atlantic Canada. In this episode, Don chats with Jennifer Watts, CEO of the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) about how to improve immigrant retention in the region.
Historically, the four Atlantic Provinces only retain about half of the newcomers over the longer term. Retention rates have been getting a little better in recent years, particularly for those who have a job that matches their education, skills and background.
Those coming into Nova Scotia as caregivers, for example, have a 90 percent retention rate after three years. Those coming here as family-sponsored immigrants have an 85 percent retention rate after three years. Jennifer and Don have a wide-ranging conversation on what we need to do to ensure the vast majority of immigrants settling in our region stay for the long term. Don and Dave have a chat beforehand to frame the regional context.
This is the third in a series of conversations about population growth in the region that will feature interviews with area companies and advocates for increased immigration.
The “Insights” podcast combines the experiences of an economist, David Campbell, and a social scientist, Don Mills, to explore the challenges and opportunities facing Atlantic Canada, to promote data-driven decision-making among policymakers, and to encourage a wider dialogue and debate leading to greater prosperity for the region.
Search for “Huddle Insights” on podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify, and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. You can also listen to past conversations there.