QUESTION PERIOD — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Immigration Levels
October 22, 2026
Senator Moreau, in its October 8 analysis, the Bank of Canada wrote:
In the coming years, fewer immigrants are expected to arrive, which will reduce demand for housing. This could lower pressure on housing costs. At the same time, less immigration will mean fewer workers and weaker demand for other goods and services. The economy won’t grow as fast as a result.
During Bill C-12 debate, specifically in relation to changes to the immigration system, senators warned of potential unintended consequences due to some of the changes in the Canadian economy. Now it seems that the Bank of Canada is indicating those same concerns.
Did the government miscalculate, or is it prepared to accept structurally lower economic growth as a consequence of its rapid immigration reductions? Thank you.
Thank you for the question. Canadians understand that immigration has always fuelled our growth and will continue to play an indispensable role in building Canada. The government is managing volumes responsibly and refocusing on attracting those Canada needs most, including health workers, home builders, researchers and high-skilled workers who sustain our public services and fuel Canada’s prosperity. The government will continue to take a balanced approach to immigration.
Canada has an unprecedented opportunity right now to attract international talent. The new Talent Attraction Strategy of the government is going to recruit more than 1,000 highly qualified researchers and give them the resources they need to drive innovation here at home and build the economy of tomorrow.
Thank you for that. I look forward to that strategy coming to life.
What specific economic indicators and timelines will the government use to determine whether its current immigration targets and its plan would potentially undermine the long-term economic growth of this country, and will it commit to revisiting those targets if the evidence warrants it?
Attracting and retaining high-value talent remain a critical priority and will help build Canada strong, and that’s why the government is committed to working as far as immigration is concerned.
In 2026-27, the government is also granting permanent residence to an additional 33,000 skilled workers who are already working in rural and smaller communities. I had many questions from Senator Miville-Dechêne on those issues of need in remote areas —
Thank you, Senator Moreau.
