Over the past two years Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada classes (LINC) and other federally sponsored newcomer settlement services in Ontario have faced over 25% cuts from Citizenship and Immigration Canada. LINC classes now face even more cuts for the 2012- 2013 fiscal year. These cuts, now totaling over 40%, are unjustified and disproportionate. They threaten the very existence of LINC classes and newcomer settlement programs across the province. Newcomers are an essential part of Canada's future prosperity and well-being. LINC classes and newcomer settlement services play a crucial role in assisting newcomers to integrate into Canadian society and participate in a successful future for all Canadians. The demand for newcomer services has not lessened yet the ability of LINC classes and newcomer settlement services in Ontario to meet that demand has been seriously jeopardized.
We call upon the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada to reinstate funding to LINC and newcomer settlement programs in Ontario and ensure that newcomers to Canada have every tool available to achieve a successful future in Canada.
