Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has recently shifted his stance on immigration, warning that the influx of temporary immigrants into the country needs to be brought under control. Trudeau, a staunch immigration supporter, expressed concerns over the rate at which temporary immigrants are entering Canada, stating that it has exceeded the country’s capacity to absorb them. He emphasized the need to reduce the number of temporary immigrants, which currently make up 7.5% of the population, up from 2% in 2017.
Trudeau’s change in tone regarding immigration comes after he previously relied on immigrants to drive economic growth and address labor shortages. The increase in immigration during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to various challenges, including a strain on the healthcare system and rising rent prices. The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the issues caused by the influx of temporary immigrants signals a shift in government policy to address these concerns, which have been overlooked due to fear of appearing xenophobic.
The Place Centre’s founding director, Mike Moffatt, highlighted the reluctance of provincial and federal governments to address the immigration issue earlier, as they were hesitant to be perceived as xenophobic. Despite widespread support for immigration among Canadian citizens in 2020, public opinion has shifted, with immigration levels falling to a three-decade low by the end of the year. Trudeau’s adjustment in his immigration policy reflects the changing sentiment among the public, particularly as Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre gains popularity in opinion polls.
Trudeau’s call for controlling the flow of temporary immigrants is aimed at striking a balance between supporting permanent residents, as the government has done historically, while mitigating the pressures caused by temporary immigration. The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the challenges associated with high levels of temporary immigration signifies a departure from his previous pro-immigration stance. By addressing the issue and proposing measures to reduce the influx of temporary immigrants, Trudeau aims to alleviate the strain on various sectors caused by the rapid increase in immigration levels.
Trudeau’s warning about the need to manage the stream of temporary immigrants entering Canada is part of a broader shift in immigration policy in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s efforts to address the strain on healthcare services, housing affordability, and other sectors highlight the importance of adapting immigration policies to current circumstances. By recognizing the need to strike a balance between supporting permanent residents and managing temporary immigration, Trudeau aims to address the concerns raised by the public and maintain a responsible approach to immigration in Canada.
