Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants Applauds Quebec Government for
Pressing Forward on Consultant Regulation

TORONTO, July 8 /CNW/ - The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) applauds Quebec Immigration Minister Yolande James for forging ahead on consultant regulation.

"The fact that the Quebec government has made the regulation of immigration consultants in Quebec a priority speaks volumes about their commitment to consumer protection," said CSIC Chair, Nigel Thomson. "These measures will ensure Quebec consumers of immigration consulting services will be afforded competent and up-to-date skills and knowledge."

Since 2004, only members of CSIC, a provincial bar, or a Quebec notary have been authorized to appear before the Federal government on behalf of a prospective immigrant or to advise a person with a pending application for immigration.

CSIC members, known as Certified Canadian Immigration Consultants (CCICs), are held to a strict code of professional conduct and must constantly develop their professional skills in order to stay abreast of issues that could affect their immigration practice and, ultimately, how they represent a client.

In addition, all CCICs must carry errors and omissions insurance and pay into a client compensation fund. Members are subject to a formal complaints process where every complaint is reviewed and every effort is made to resolve the complaint to the satisfaction of all parties concerned.

"This measure draws a clear line between unlicensed and licensed immigration consultants. Further, it provides much needed protection to the integrity of the Quebec immigration system," said Thomson.

The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants is the professional regulatory body for immigration consultants in Canada. Established in 2004 it currently has close to 1800 members. CSIC's mandate is to protect consumers of immigration consulting services. Consequently, it is responsible for ensuring the education, competency testing and the discipline of its members. CSIC also requires its members to carry errors and omissions insurance and to contribute to a compensation fund.

For further information: Nancy Tibbo, Communications Manager, [email protected], 416-945-6271, Toll free: 866-308-2742, ext. 2252