» Trudeau Admits Policy Shortcomings, Canada to Lower Immigration Targets

প্রকাশিত: ২৬. অক্টোবর. ২০২৪ | শনিবার

Misbahul Islam: Canada to Reduce Immigration Targets as Trudeau Admits Policy Missteps TORONTO (AP) — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Thursday that Canada will significantly lower its immigration targets after acknowledging that his government failed to strike the right balance post-pandemic. Trudeau’s Liberal government faced criticism for its plan to admit 500,000 new permanent residents annually over the next two years. The new targets are set at 395,000 for next year, decreasing to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027. “In the tumultuous times as we emerged from the pandemic, between addressing labor needs and maintaining population growth, we didn’t get the balance right,” Trudeau admitted. “Immigration is essential for Canada’s future, but it must be controlled and sustainable.” Facing internal party pressure not to seek a fourth term, Trudeau has been criticized for the impact of population growth on housing affordability. He stated that reducing immigration will help stabilize population growth, allowing governments to address healthcare, housing, and social services needs. Canada’s population reached 41 million in April, up from 37.5 million in 2019. “Even Justin Trudeau wants to close Canada’s Borders,” former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on social media, advocating for stricter U.S. border measures. Trudeau also criticized corporations for exploiting temporary measures and foreign workers, and some educational institutions for admitting more international students than communities can support. Immigration Minister Marc Miller echoed these concerns, noting that lower immigration numbers will help address the housing shortage and public opinion shifts. “We are an open country, but not everyone can come to this country,” Miller said, emphasizing that Canada’s immigration targets remain ambitious despite the reductions. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre accused Trudeau of destroying the national consensus on immigration, blaming him for the current housing and immigration issues. Poilievre also referenced calls from within Trudeau’s party for him not to run for a fourth term, a significant challenge for Trudeau’s political career. Nelson Wiseman, professor emeritus of political science at the University of Toronto, criticized the Trudeau government for its handling of immigration. He noted that while the government’s logic to grow the economy and support an aging population was sound, there was a lack of coordination with provincial governments responsible for housing, health, and education. Wiseman added that many Canadians have turned against the recent influx of immigrants and temporary workers due to growing challenges in housing, health, and education, prompting Ottawa to respond to public sentiment.