The Canadian province of Alberta has signed a deal with the federal government which will allow it to attract ten times the current number of immigrants over the next ten years.

Presently, Alberta’s immigration quota stands at 2,500; however this is set to be increased to 25,000 over the next decade; a figure which is expected to eventually constitute 10 per cent of Canada’s total migrant intake.

The plan will aim to cut red-tape and ensure that Alberta will be able to attract a quota of migrants every year that will hopefully address the severe labour shortage that currently exists throughout Canada. The rules and regulations of the new fast-track migration scheme will be set out and implemented by Alberta, rather than by the federal government.

Further plans to attract medical and healthcare professionals to the province are also soon be implemented, and increased marketing is underway to insure the success of the project.

On signing the deal with Alberta, Immigration Minister Diane Finley said: “Taken together, the agreement and the related initiatives speak to the strength and flexibility of our relationship. I look forward to continued progress as we build and expand our partnerships for the benefit of newcomers and Albertans alike.”