In a press conference held in Ottawa yesterday, Federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller and Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault unveiled a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policy. The announcement outlined plans to set specific targets for temporary resident arrivals as part of the country’s annual immigration goals, commencing this autumn.
While the announcement received attention from some quarters, critics pointed out that the decision comes rather belatedly, especially considering the government’s eight-year tenure. Minister Miller’s acknowledgment of the need for changes to ensure the efficiency and sustainability of Canada’s immigration system raises questions about why these issues were not addressed earlier.
The government aims to decrease the proportion of temporary residents in Canada to 5% of the population over the next three years. Currently, temporary residents account for 6.2% of Canada’s population, indicating a significant shift in policy direction.
Additionally, the government plans to reduce the number of temporary foreign workers entering Canada in specific sectors starting from May 1st. Minister Miller emphasized the importance of striking a balance between addressing labor market demands and safeguarding the rights of Canadian workers.
Minister Boissonnault echoed Minister Miller’s sentiments, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of Canadian workers while also meeting the demands of employers.
As Canada prepares to implement these changes, discussions are ongoing about the practical implications and potential challenges associated with setting numerical targets for temporary resident arrivals. The federal government has to work closely with provincial and territorial counterparts, as well as stakeholders from various sectors, to ensure a smooth transition and address any emerging issues.