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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has acknowledged that his government could have acted faster to address loopholes in Canada’s immigration programs, attributing delays to exploitation by “bad actors” within the system.
In a YouTube video released on Sunday, Trudeau outlined new immigration policies, including a planned 20% reduction in permanent residency admissions over the next two years, targeting 365,000 by 2027. The changes also impose stricter criteria for temporary foreign worker permits.
Post-Pandemic Immigration Surge
Trudeau defended the initial spike in immigration, explaining it was necessary to revitalize Canada’s labor market and stave off a potential recession following pandemic lockdowns. However, he admitted that the rapid expansion led to abuse by corporations and institutions.
“Some saw this as a profit opportunity to game the system,” Trudeau said, highlighting that “too many” colleges used international student programs to boost revenues, while scammers preyed on vulnerable immigrants with false promises of citizenship.
New Immigration Strategy
The government’s revised approach aims to balance population growth with infrastructure development, particularly housing. “Stabilizing population growth will help housing stocks catch up, after which we can consider increasing immigration rates gradually,” Trudeau explained.
Opposition Response
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Trudeau’s stance, arguing the prime minister is backtracking on his own policies. In an interview with Vancouver’s CKNW 980, Poilievre emphasized the need to tie immigration rates to available housing, healthcare, and job opportunities.
“Trudeau is essentially denouncing his own immigration strategy while expecting Canadians to trust him to resolve the problems he created,” Poilievre remarked.
Looking Ahead
While Trudeau’s video focuses on reforming Canada’s immigration system, questions remain about how these changes will address growing concerns over irregular migration, particularly in light of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s deportation plans.
An official from the Prime Minister’s Office clarified that the video was recorded before the U.S. election, and it serves as part of the government’s efforts to communicate policy changes directly to Canadians.
Source: Canadian Press
