During a joint press conference on Sept. 13, Quebec Premier François Legault criticized Ottawa’s handling of immigration while standing next to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The event was focused on a shared announcement regarding investment in satellite technology in Montreal’s West Island.
Provincial premiers, including Legault, have expressed concerns about Ottawa’s plans to relocate asylum seekers from Ontario and Quebec. Trudeau, in response to reporters’ questions, mentioned ongoing discussions with provinces to address the issue and acknowledged the significant efforts made by Ontario and Quebec.
However, Legault immediately followed Trudeau’s comments with criticisms of Ottawa’s approach, urging Trudeau to quickly reduce the number of temporary residents in Quebec. He expressed frustration with the lack of progress in discussions with other provinces on this issue.
Legault has been pressuring Ottawa for some time to address the influx of asylum seekers into Quebec, particularly following the closure of the Roxham Road border crossing with New York.
He highlighted the significant increase in temporary immigrants in Quebec over the past two years, with a notable portion being asylum seekers. Quebec’s population growth has largely been driven by immigration, as reported by Quebec’s statistical institute.
Other provincial leaders, such as New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, have also raised concerns about Ottawa’s relocation plans for asylum seekers. They argue that the influx of newcomers is straining public services and increasing costs for residents.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston and B.C. Premier David Eby have similarly voiced opposition to the federal government’s approach to immigration. Eby described the plan as “daft” and criticized the significant increase in immigration numbers.
Immigration has become a contentious issue in Canadian politics, with discussions on the topic becoming more prevalent due to housing shortages and service pressures. Minister Marc Miller’s stance on reducing immigration levels has also sparked debate within the government.
Miller questioned the impact of slashing skilled workers needed for building houses and family reunification on the mental health and well-being of families. He also expressed concern over the overwhelming volume of international students and the need to cap their numbers. In January, he stated that the immigration system had spiraled out of control. Recently, Miller highlighted immigration as a major issue in the upcoming election, reflecting a shift in public attitudes towards immigration, with a majority feeling that current levels are too high. This report was contributed to by Tara MacIsaac and The Canadian Press.
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