I heard a little bit about the new express entry system. Contrary to some of what I heard here today, I can say in my capacity as parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration that we did in fact hold widespread consultations on the issue of express entry.
The program opened in January of this year, and we are seeing overwhelming interest in the program worldwide, and I might add, considerable interest from francophone people around the world. Some of that will become evident shortly as the program rolls out.
This is a new stream of immigration. Express Entry gives francophone newcomers the opportunity to settle in Canada more quickly. Do you think that this new program will be beneficial to francophone communities outside Quebec and allow them to attract talent to their regions?
I will begin with you, Mr. Dubé.