The Globe and Mail editorial highlights the crucial, yet overlooked, issue of Canada's immigration system in the federal election campaign. The article points to the Liberals' acknowledgment of mismanagement, noting that their open-door policies led to an unprecedented surge of temporary workers and international students, contributing to labor market concerns, housing shortages, and affordability issues.
The Liberals have attempted to reduce immigration targets and tighten criteria, but the proportion of temporary residents continues to rise, exceeding their stated goal. The Conservatives, under Pierre Poilievre, propose linking annual immigration levels to the number of new homes built, significantly reducing the intake. This approach would result in approximately 250,000 immigrants annually, mirroring the levels under the Harper government.
The editorial raises concerns about the uncertainty surrounding the return of temporary workers and students after their visas expire, and notes the significant increase in asylum claims in 2024. While reducing immigration too drastically could create labor shortages, the current system needs urgent reform to restore public trust. A recent poll shows a majority of Canadians now believe immigration levels are too high.
The article concludes by emphasizing the vital role of new Canadians in the country's success and the need for preserving Canada's competitive advantage through a well-managed immigration system. The need for swift action to address the defects in the current system is paramount to maintain public trust and ensure the long-term prosperity of the nation.