Lena Metlege Diab Appointed Canada’s New Immigration Minister After Liberal Victory Under PM Mark Carney
Following the Liberal Party’s recent electoral win, Prime Minister Mark Carney has introduced a new federal cabinet—naming Lena Metlege Diab as Canada’s latest Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, takes over the immigration portfolio from Rachel Bendayan, who served in the role since March 2025.
This appointment marks a significant leadership shift within Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as Canada enters a new chapter under Carney’s administration.
Diab Brings Decades of Legal and Political Leadership to IRCC
Lena Metlege Diab is no stranger to immigration policy. A seasoned politician and lawyer, she previously served as Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration (2013–2021)—the first woman of Lebanese descent elected to a provincial legislature in Canada, and the first woman to serve as Nova Scotia’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
Her tenure in Nova Scotia’s immigration office saw notable achievements:
- Record-high provincial nominee selections
- Introduction of entrepreneurial immigration pathways
- Pioneering use of Express Entry-aligned streams
- Promotion of Francophone and newcomer retention initiatives
In addition, Diab held several other roles in the Nova Scotia government, including:
- Minister of Labour and Advanced Education
- Minister responsible for Acadian Affairs and the Francophonie
Personal Background: From Halifax to Parliament Hill
Born and raised in Halifax, Diab is the daughter of Lebanese immigrants. She is fluent in English, French, and Arabic, and holds degrees in commerce and law from Saint Mary’s University and Dalhousie University.
Before entering politics, she worked as a lawyer and small business owner in Halifax. She also led the Canadian-Lebanon Society of Halifax for seven terms, becoming its first female president. Her longstanding community work and deep commitment to inclusion and equity have shaped her political ethos.
Her campaign biography emphasizes principles of diversity, fairness, and collaboration—values likely to guide her work at IRCC.
Immigration Strategy Under PM Mark Carney
While specific mandates for Diab are yet to be published, Prime Minister Mark Carney has previously outlined a vision for immigration policy focused on recalibration and sustainability. Key priorities include:
- Lowering overall immigration levels to maintain long-term capacity
- Boosting economic immigration, especially in high-demand sectors
- Increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec
- Reducing reliance on temporary residents such as international students and short-term workers
Carney’s government is expected to balance Canada’s population growth needs with housing, healthcare, and infrastructure constraints.
Immigration: A Central Pillar of Canada’s Growth Strategy
Immigration remains one of the most influential policy areas in Canada, driving nearly 100% of labour force growth and population expansion. As such, the immigration minister holds considerable power—not only in shaping public policy but also in responding quickly to emerging economic or humanitarian needs.
The minister has the authority to:
- Enact or suspend public policies (e.g. work permit rules, student work hours)
- Adjust eligibility for key immigration programs
- Influence international recruitment, settlement funding, and refugee resettlement strategies
Given current pressures on housing and healthcare, coupled with labour shortages, Minister Diab’s role will be crucial in balancing national priorities.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
