The federal government is considering a potential plan to have smaller Canadian provinces take in more asylum seekers, but Premier Danielle Smith of Alberta has expressed opposition to the idea, particularly without financial assistance. Federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller has stated that Ottawa will not force provinces to accept asylum seekers without compensation or consent. Quebec and Ontario have been facing disproportionate pressures in welcoming the majority of asylum seekers, leading to discussions on fair distribution and federal funding for provinces willing to accept asylum seekers. Smith raised concerns about the impact of excessive immigration on the cost of living and public services in Alberta, stating that the province cannot afford to take in additional asylum seekers.
Smith emphasized that Alberta has always welcomed newcomers who share the province’s values, but pointed out that the province has already seen a significant increase in population, including supporting a large number of Ukrainian evacuees. She highlighted the constitutional authority shared between the federal government and provinces in immigration matters, criticizing the Trudeau government’s open border policies that have led to challenges that are not sustainable. Miller’s office acknowledged the unprecedented flows of asylum seekers globally and the need for a collaborative approach to managing the volume of asylum seekers in Canada. The federal government expects the full collaboration of provinces and territories in developing a fair and sustainable approach to asylum seeker management.
New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs also expressed concerns about the federal government’s plan to force his province to take in 4,600 asylum seekers without financial support. Miller refuted the claim, calling it largely fictitious and irresponsible. In response to the potential influx of asylum seekers, Smith announced that Alberta is not open to accepting additional asylum seekers until further notice due to financial constraints. The federal government is exploring ways to distribute the challenges and skills brought by asylum seekers among provinces, emphasizing the need for collaboration and engagement with stakeholders at all levels of government.
Miller’s office mentioned the implementation of integrity measures to reduce asylum volumes and the necessity of addressing the current realities on the ground regarding asylum seekers. They reiterated the government’s commitment to working with provinces and territories to find a fair and sustainable solution to managing asylum seekers, including offering incentives to those willing to welcome asylum seekers. With the evolving situation, all options remain on the table, and the federal government is looking for collaborative approaches to address the influx of asylum seekers. The ongoing discussions and negotiations between the federal government and provinces will determine the future steps regarding the distribution and support of asylum seekers across Canada.
