Trudeau Vows to Tighten Reins on Temporary Immigration

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced plans to tighten the reins on temporary immigration, citing a need to bring the situation “under control.” Speaking at a housing announcement event in Dartmouth, N.S., Trudeau expressed concerns over the surging numbers of temporary foreign workers and international students, stressing the strain it’s placing on Canadian communities.

With a 35 percent decrease planned for the upcoming year, this move signals a shift in immigration policies toward a more balanced and sustainable approach.

Trudeau highlighted the staggering growth in temporary immigrants, noting that in 2017, only two percent of Canada’s population comprised temporary residents. However, the figure has since skyrocketed to 7.5 percent, signifying a pressing need for intervention.

The prime minister underscored the challenges posed by this influx, including mental health issues among international students and wage depression in certain sectors due to reliance on temporary foreign workers. Trudeau emphasized the importance of striking a balance to alleviate pressure on local communities.

In response to these concerns, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced plans to set targets for temporary residents entering Canada. The objective is to ensure sustainable growth while maintaining the nation’s capacity to integrate newcomers effectively.

The government is gearing up to recalibrate the number of temporary admissions to Canada, aiming for a more sustainable immigration system. This strategic adjustment aligns with long-term sustainability goals and reflects Ottawa’s commitment to managing immigration levels responsibly.

As part of these efforts, the government will implement a significant reduction in student visa admissions. With a 35 percent decrease planned for the upcoming year, this move signals a shift in immigration policies toward a more balanced and sustainable approach.