Following the Liberal Party’s recent victory in the 2025 federal election, Canada has welcomed a new Prime Minister: Mark Carney. One of his first major moves was to reshuffle the federal Cabinet, appointing Lena Metlege Diab as Canada’s new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC).

Lena Metlege Diab is the Member of Parliament for Halifax West and brings a strong background in law, business, and public service.

Here are some highlights from her career:

• Born and raised in Halifax to Lebanese immigrant parents
• Holds a commerce degree from Saint Mary’s University and a law degree from Dalhousie University
• Practiced law and ran a small business in Halifax before entering politics
• Elected as the first woman of Lebanese descent to a Canadian legislature
• Served as Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration and Attorney General/Minister of Justice
• Led major immigration reforms in Nova Scotia, including:
  • Increasing permanent resident nominations to record levels
  • Creating new entrepreneur immigration streams
  • Launching pilot programs aligned with the federal Express Entry system
• Served in additional roles such as:
  • Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie
  • Minister of Labour and Advanced Education
• Speaks English, French, and Arabic
• Long-time leader in the Lebanese Canadian community, including seven terms as president of the Canadian-Lebanon Society of Halifax (and its first female president)

Her values, as stated on her campaign website, include diversity, inclusion, collaboration, and fairness—principles that closely align with Canada’s immigration goals.

Although Prime Minister Carney has not yet issued official mandate letters to Cabinet ministers, his past comments suggest the following priorities:

• Adjusting permanent immigration to a more “sustainable” level
• Continuing to support economic immigration to fill labour market needs
• Increasing francophone immigration
• Reducing the number of temporary residents (such as international students and temporary workers)

Diab’s experience at the provincial level—particularly her practical and reform-minded approach—may influence how these priorities are implemented at the federal level.

Immigration plays a vital role in Canada’s economy, society, and demographic future:

• Nearly 100% of population and labour force growth now comes from immigration
• Immigrants are key to addressing labour shortages and sustaining economic development
• As a result, immigration policy is closely watched and frequently debated

Canada’s Immigration Minister also has significant discretionary power. Through temporary public policies, the Minister can:

• Introduce or suspend immigration programs
• Change eligibility rules for work permits or study permits
• Implement reforms without requiring parliamentary approval

This authority makes the role especially impactful, as even short-term changes can affect thousands of international workers, students, families, and employers.

With a new Prime Minister and a highly experienced Immigration Minister in place, Canada’s immigration system could soon undergo thoughtful adjustments.

Lena Metlege Diab’s background and track record suggest a focus on balanced and inclusive immigration policies. For individuals, families, and businesses with an interest in Canadian immigration, it will be important to monitor upcoming announcements and program changes closely.