Manitoba and Newfoundland Open to More Asylum Seekers Amid Quebec’s Reduction Efforts

Manitoba, Newfoundland, and Labrador are prepared to accept more refugees to alleviate pressure on Quebec, provided the federal government increases financial support. The premiers of these provinces have expressed the need for federal assistance to address housing, healthcare, and social needs.

Premiers and territorial leaders met in Halifax from July 15 to 17 to discuss strategies for distributing asylum seekers across Canada and securing federal aid. 

The premiers highlighted that while the federal government is working on improving housing availability and affordability, more flexible funding programs are needed to address regional housing crises.

Despite Canada’s long-standing tradition of welcoming asylum seekers, the current housing affordability crisis has led many provincial leaders to request additional support from Ottawa. 

Quebec Premier François Legault has been vocal about reducing the number of asylum seekers in his province, advocating for more immigration control and a focus on French-speaking immigrants. 

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford have repeated similar concerns about the strain on infrastructure and slow processing of work permits by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Quebec’s unique position allows it to administer its immigration programs with separate selection criteria. The province uses the Arrima online portal for its Expression of Interest immigration system, targeting candidates who meet the needs of Quebec businesses.

Prospective immigrants to Quebec undergo a two-step process, starting with selection by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) and obtaining a Quebec Certificate of Selection (CSQ).

After receiving the CSQ, candidates must apply for permanent residence with IRCC within 24 months. The federal government’s role is mainly to assess health and criminality issues. 

As provinces seek to balance asylum seeker distribution and address infrastructure needs, collaboration with the federal government remains crucial to managing the influx and ensuring adequate support for newcomers.

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