The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) warned on October 22 that seats are filling fast for its annual Immigration Forum, scheduled for October 28 at the Four Points by Sheraton in Point Edward. The half-day event will bring together employers, municipal officials and newcomer organisations to discuss how immigration supports a “strong and sustainable local economy,” according to SLEP CEO Matthew Slotwinski. Panels will spotlight recent policy shifts, including IRCC’s new work-permit points for high-wage occupations and Ontario’s expanded REDI funding. Local manufacturers such as NOVA Chemicals and Imperial Oil are expected to share case studies on leveraging the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) to stabilise shift-based operations. For HR teams, the forum offers direct access to provincial immigration officers who can clarify nomination quotas for 2027 and explain how upcoming federal caps on temporary residents might affect recruitment timelines. Lawyers from Fragomen and Deloitte will host clinics on navigating the updated Employer Compliance Portal—a critical tool as IRCC tightens post-arrival audits. Registrants will also preview regional housing and transportation initiatives aimed at improving newcomer retention—a growing concern after rental-vacancy rates fell to 1.4 percent in Sarnia last quarter. Employers seeking to attract foreign talent are advised to align relocation packages with these municipal efforts to maximise uptake. With capacity limited to 200 delegates, companies yet to register should act immediately; walk-in admittance is unlikely. Virtual-attendance options are not offered this year in order to encourage face-to-face networking.
Source: Sarnia News Today
