I will jump in and add very quickly that unconscious bias is a phenomenon about which we all need to have knowledge. It comes from a lack of education and understanding of the issue. Some of us are more educated in one area and more experienced in one area and some of us are not as well informed in some areas.
The problem is that the last entity of the federal government that should ever claim the benefit of or the right to exhibit unconscious bias is IRCC. IRCC exists to work with us, the settlement sector and all the other partners, to provide equitable services for newcomers. I would say they do a very good job of talking to us and of asking about our experiences. I would like to believe that they appreciate our feedback. However, they have to take responsibility for their own lack of knowledge and the message they are sending through this report. The core of Canadian philosophy about newcomers—equity and acceptance—lies in their ability and proficiency to understand the issue, and they are making decisions about millions of people who have come to Canada over the years. I don't think anybody can be excused for not being well aware of the issues of racism, discrimination and sexism, gender issues as they relate to immigration, and the benefits this country receives from immigration in terms of both nation building and labour market needs.
Immigration is essential to this country. In the third quarter of 2020 there was zero population growth in Canada, so those who make tough decisions about immigration cannot allow biases.