Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants lauds Quebec government for
taking action to protect prospective immigrants

TORONTO, March 3 /CNW/ - Today the Quebec government published proposed regulations that will greatly enhance the protection of immigrants in the province.

"Quebec is showing impressive leadership in the protection of consumers of immigration consulting services from unlicensed ghost agents," said John Ryan, CSIC Chair and Acting CEO. "It's clear that they've put a great deal of thought into crafting a comprehensive solution."

Under the proposed regulations all immigrants to Quebec will be required to divulge the name of any representative they hire, which will enable the government to identify ghost agents. In addition, the government will be able to impose hefty fines on consultants that behave improperly.

"Quebec has a proud history of consumer protection, and we look forward to working with the government to protect prospective immigrants from exploitation," said Ryan.

The proposed regulations will now enter a 45-day public consultation period. CSIC will make its submission in the near future.

The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants is the professional regulatory body for immigration consultants in Canada. Established in 2004 it currently has more than 1664 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: Adam Hawkins, Communications Officer, [email protected], [phone] x 2248, Toll free: 1-866-308-2742