Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced significant changes to the country’s immigration policies, including a reduction in the number of low-wage, temporary foreign workers and permanent residents allowed entry into Canada. This decision comes in response to pressures on housing and public services stemming from a rapidly growing population, much of which has been driven by immigration.
Trudeau shared his plans on social media platform X, stating, “We’re reducing the number of low-wage, temporary foreign workers in Canada. The labour market has changed. Now is the time for our businesses to invest in Canadian workers and youth.”
The announcement reflects growing concerns over Canada’s population surge, with recent federal statistics showing that immigration accounted for approximately 97% of the country’s population growth last year. Critics have pointed out that this rapid influx has strained housing and healthcare services, prompting the government to reconsider its approach to immigration.
In a press conference, Trudeau explained that the adjustments to the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) programme are intended to address both the challenges faced by Canadian workers and the conditions experienced by foreign workers. “It’s not fair to Canadians struggling to find a good job, and it’s not fair to those temporary foreign workers, some of whom are being mistreated and exploited,” he remarked. The TFW programme, which allows foreign nationals to fill temporary jobs when qualified Canadians are unavailable, has faced criticism from labour advocates. The UN recently labelled it as “a breeding ground for contemporary forms of slavery.”
Alongside changes to the TFW programme, Trudeau revealed that his cabinet is considering reductions in the number of permanent resident streams. This move is partly in response to declining approval ratings for the Prime Minister, driven by public dissatisfaction with the perceived high levels of immigration.
“We’re looking at the various streams to make sure that as we move forward, Canada remains a place that is positive in its support for immigration, but also responsible in the way we integrate and make sure there’s pathways to success for everyone who comes to Canada,” Trudeau stated. He added that the government plans to release a broader immigration strategy this fall, outlining a comprehensive approach to managing immigration levels and ensuring effective integration.
The Canadian government’s new direction aims to strike a balance between supporting immigration and addressing the associated pressures on public services and the labour market. As the country continues to grapple with the challenges of a growing population, the forthcoming immigration plan will likely shape the future landscape of Canadian society and its approach to integrating newcomers.
Trudeau’s announcement signals a shift in immigration policy, with a focus on reducing reliance on low-wage foreign labour and re-evaluating permanent residency criteria. The broader strategy expected later this year will provide further details on how the government plans to manage these changes while maintaining Canada’s reputation as an inclusive and supportive country for immigrants.
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