Quebec government takes positive steps to protect immigrants

MONTREAL, Nov. 5 /CNW/ - The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) congratulates the Government of Quebec on their commitment to protect Quebec immigrants from unlicensed consultants.

"CSIC is pleased that the Quebec government has expressed their confidence in us through the implementation of their regulations," said CSIC CEO, John Ryan. "They have clearly recognized the protection that Certified Canadian Immigration Consultants (CCICs) and their regulator, CSIC, bring to consumers."

Since its inception in 2004 CSIC has dedicated itself to establishing the credibility of the immigration consulting profession and providing much-needed consumer protection to prospective immigrants. Quebec's decision to include CCICs in the new regulations is a testament to the ongoing success of CSIC as a regulator.

As of November 4, the Quebec Government will only recognize immigration consultants who are members of the CSIC.

"These measures will ensure Quebec consumers of immigration consulting services will be afforded competent and up-to-date skills and knowledge," said Ryan.

Information on how to become a member of CSIC is available online at www.csic-scci.ca.

The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants is the professional regulatory body for Certified Canadian Immigration Consultants. Established in 2004 it currently has over 1,800 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. The best way to find a CCIC is via CSIC's toll free referral line, 1-877-311-7926.

For further information:

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