Immigration has long been a key part of Canada’s ethos. For decades, Canadians have been pro-immigration, citing its benefits for the economy, but also its contributions to the rich tapestry of culture, language, and tradition.
However, as Canadians navigate the rising cost of living, housing affordability, and access to public services, many—two-thirds in fact—believe that Canada’s targets to welcome 1.5 million newcomers to the country over the next three years is a little (or a lot) off the mark.
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Mikal Skuterud, a labour economist from the University of Waterloo and the Director at the Canadian Labour Economic Forum to talk immigration, how Canada’s system works, where it’s going wrong, and what we need to do to get the system working for newcomers and for Canada. We also address productivity challenges and speak to the Council’s latest task force on Prosperity-Driven Immigration.
In this episode:
- Canada’s immigration system
- The connection between capital investment and immigration
- Attracting, selecting, and retaining key skills
- How Canada compares to other countries
- Why we should be selecting economic immigrants
- Understanding labour market needs
- Housing and it’s impact on the national immigration agenda
- Paths to immigration in Canada
- How to protect Canada’s reputation around immigration
- Getting immigration out of the headlines
Resources Mentioned:
About The Brief
In this series, co-hosts Scott Crockatt and Brittany Brander explore the big challenges we face as Albertans; celebrate stories of growth, innovation, and prosperity; and discover bold ideas to make life better for Albertans.
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