Canada’s 13 provincial and territorial premiers, meeting at the Council of the Federation in Muskoka, Ontario, are pushing for greater control over immigration to address local labour shortages and economic needs.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is leading the charge, proposing provincial work permits for asylum seekers and migrants, citing federal processing delays of up to two years.
This plan leverages Section 95 of the Canadian Constitution, which allows provinces to legislate on immigration if aligned with federal laws.
The premiers argue that federal cuts to programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) hinder their ability to address labour shortages in sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and services.
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Public support for immigration is declining due to pressures on housing and public services, prompting federal measures like the Strong Borders bill and reduced immigration targets.
However, provinces like Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick emphasize the need for tailored immigration policies to meet regional economic demands.
Ford’s plan aims to enable asylum seekers to work sooner, reducing reliance on government support and boosting local economies.
Challenges include legal and administrative complexities, potential federal pushback, and public concerns over immigration levels.
If successful, Ontario’s initiative could inspire other provinces, potentially reshaping Canada’s immigration system into a more regionally responsive framework.
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