What are the long-term consequences of this explosion in ethnic enclaves? Does self-isolation impede integration? Will the children of these immigrants eventually blend into Canadian society like previous generations, or will their status as visible minorities block their progress no matter where they live?

Mostly, it's too early to tell. But one thing is already clear: Multiculturalism isn't working that well for visible-minority newcomers.

In a landmark study this year, University of Toronto sociologist Jeffrey Reitz and co-author Rupa Banerjee concluded that the offspring of visible minority immigrants integrate at a slower rate than the children of white immigrants. They are less likely to identify as "Canadian" and report more incidents of discrimination....

Some researchers are beginning to question whether the nation's famed multiculturalism policy -- first articulated in 1971 by prime minister Pierre Trudeau and still considered a model in Europe -- may in fact be exacerbating differences. [Link]