July 24, 2025
RED FM News Desk
All of Canada’s provincial premiers have voiced a strong desire for greater control over immigration policies, arguing that immigration should align more closely with their provinces’ economic needs. Ontario Premier Doug Ford directly criticized federal Immigration Minister Lena Diab and announced Ontario will begin issuing its own work permits without waiting for federal approval.
Following a three-day summit, the premiers emphasized that under Section 95 of the Canadian Constitution, provinces have the authority to create laws that allow immigrants to work. Premier Ford said, “Ontario will start issuing its own work permits. We’re not going to wait for the federal government.”
He accused the Immigration Minister of not being on the same page as Prime Minister Mark Carney and stated that Canada’s immigration system is too slow, causing delays in work permit approvals. Ford pointed out that nearly 100,000 asylum seekers are currently staying in hotels in Ontario. While many are willing and able to work, they remain unemployed due to delays in obtaining work permits.
Quebec Premier François Legault also raised concerns, noting that asylum claims take up to three years to process in Canada, compared to just three months in countries like France. He warned that the delay is placing immense pressure on public services and housing.
In response to growing concerns, the federal government introduced the Strong Borders Bill, which aims to curb new asylum claims and potentially cancel certain cases altogether.
The premiers also called for an increase in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) quota, which allows provinces (except Quebec) to nominate immigrants based on regional labor needs. However, the Trudeau government recently cut the PNP quota by 50%, prompting further dissatisfaction.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew stressed the importance of the PNP to his province’s economy, particularly in rural areas. Premiers from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and other regions echoed the demand for more autonomy in managing immigration.
In response, a spokesperson for Minister Lena Diab stated that the minister is willing to work collaboratively with provinces and fully understands the shared responsibilities over immigration. The spokesperson also noted that the federal government has provided $3.2 billion in funding to 520 service agencies to support immigrants with language training, job preparation, and certification assistance.
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