The migration of new immigrants into a single resource community in northern Manitoba

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the migration of new immigrants into a single resource community in northern Manitoba. The community selected for this study is Thompson, Manitoba. The specific objectives of this study are: (1) to determine the size of Thompson's existing new immigrant community and to examine their reasons for migrating north; (2) to determine the reactions of the new immigrant community to life in the north; (3) to isolate specific problems which new immigrants are confronted with in a northern single resource community; (4) to determine whether socio-demographic characteristics influence the length of time a new immigrant has resided in a northern community; (5) utilize these findings to determine whether new immigrants are likely to become long term residents in the north. Data were collected concerning the respondents demographic characteristics, past migration behaviour, reasons for migrating to Thompson, satisfaction with community and employment factors, and finally, future migration intentions. The research propositions and hypotheses were tested through the use of descriptive statistics and the use of inferential tests. The findings of this study indicate that socio-demographic characteristics do not significantly influence the length of time a new immigrant has resided in a northern community. Of the six socio-demographic variables analyzed, only one -- current type of residence, was found to be significantly related to length of residence in Thompson. With respect to the stability of the new immigrant population, the data collected would appear to suggest that new immigrants are likely to become long term residents of the north. Sixty-five percent of the respondents interviewed had resided within the community for a period of two years or more. Moreover, 78 percent of the sample indicated that they intended to remain within the community for a period of five years or more. Some implications for northern employers, planners and manpower agencies are suggested.