Full Breakdown
Alberta’s Push for Greater Immigration Control Echoes Quebec Deal
By Drooid · · How we work
Alberta Immigration Autonomy Talks
Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated on a recent parliamentary question period that Ottawa is not dismissing the idea of granting Alberta expanded immigration authority similar to the 1991 Canada-Quebec agreement. Carney answered reporters in French, noting “Quebec is distinct” because of its culture and language, and said the federal government will also consult other provinces about overall immigration levels. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith told reporters in Calgary that her government is drafting a “proposal” inspired by the Quebec accord.
Historical Background
The 1991 accord with Quebec gave that province the power to set its own economic immigration targets after the Meech Lake constitutional talks collapsed. In Alberta, a recent referendum saw roughly 53 % of voters support a question calling for more provincial control over immigration to keep newcomer numbers at “sustainable levels.” Preliminary results were released on the day of the parliamentary exchange, with official certification expected the following week.
Official Statements & Responses
Carney emphasized that the federal government has “retaken control” of immigration and is listening to provincial leaders. He said, “We have been having discussions with the provinces’ first ministers around getting immigration, first and foremost, to the right levels.” Carney also warned that the government will not deviate from “overall levels that are sustainable” and hinted at a future “controlled increase in the population.” Immigration Minister Lena Diab did not answer reporters’ questions during a Liberal caucus meeting. The federal immigration target, originally set at 500,000 permanent residents annually, was revised in the 2024-2025 plan to 385,000 for the current year, 370,000 for the next year, and the same figure projected through 2028.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have been having discussions with the provinces’ first ministers around getting immigration, first and foremost, to the right levels,” — Mark Carney, email prime minister
- “It shows he is totally out of touch. Immigration is totally out of control.” — Mark Carney, email prime minister