Liberal Government Faces Growing Concerns Over Immigration Levels Amid Housing Crisis
Ottawa, October 26, 2024 — The Canadian government has announced a significant reduction in immigration targets as public concern over the country’s housing crisis mounts. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, which once championed high levels of immigration to support economic growth and counter an aging population, has now scaled back its targets in response to shifting public opinion.
Recent polling data indicates that a growing number of Canadians believe immigration levels are too high, with concerns primarily focused on the housing market. In 2022, only 15% of respondents cited housing availability as a major issue tied to immigration. However, by 2023, that figure had surged to 38%. This year, 33% of those surveyed expressed similar concerns.
Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration Minister, acknowledged the challenge in a public statement, explaining that the decision reflects the need to balance population growth with housing availability and economic stability. Miller emphasized that while Canada remains an “open country,” the government has listened to citizens concerned about the pressures immigration places on essential resources like housing.
The federal government will now aim to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, down from the previous target of 500,000. By 2027, the annual intake will decrease further to 365,000, representing a marked reduction from recent years but still an increase from levels under the previous Conservative government.
Economists and business groups have expressed concern over the cuts, warning they could lead to labor shortages and hinder economic growth. However, provincial leaders are divided on the issue, with some supporting the move, while others, such as Newfoundland’s immigration minister, have voiced disappointment over the impact the cuts will have on regional economic growth.
While public sentiment towards immigration has cooled, 68% of Canadians still believe that immigration has a positive economic impact, though this number is down from 83% in 2022. The Trudeau government faces the challenge of maintaining public confidence in the immigration system while addressing growing concerns about housing and resource management.
With the 2025 election on the horizon, immigration is expected to remain a hot-button issue, and the Liberals will need to find a balance between fostering economic growth and ensuring that essential infrastructure can support Canada’s growing population.