Economists are urging the government to include an estimated 500,000 undocumented residents in its upcoming immigration plan. Immigration Minister Lena Diab is consulting on targets for the next three years, seen by some as a test of Prime Minister Carney's immigration stance. Annual immigration levels, announced in the fall, help plan for housing, schools, and healthcare.
Former federal economist Henry Lotin stresses the need to account for undocumented migrants in population planning. He urges Minister Diab to avoid the assumption that expired visa holders have lost their jobs, as many work without papers. Benjamin Tal, deputy chief economist of CIBC Capital Markets, agrees that knowing the exact population is crucial for policy.
A 2024 Finance Department briefing estimated up to 500,000 undocumented people in Canada. Former Minister Miller estimated the number could be as high as 600,000. The government announced a plan for up to 6,000 undocumented construction workers to apply for permanent residence, which has not yet been implemented.
Last year's plan included targets for regularizing undocumented migrants in essential services. A 2021 commitment to allow some undocumented residents to apply for permanent residence was shelved. Syed Hussan of the Migrants Rights Network criticized delays and broken promises, calling for full regularization of all undocumented people.
5 Comments
Raphael
This will only encourage more illegal immigration. It's a green light for breaking the law.
Donatello
They can't just be welcomed into Canada with open arms. Where will the funding for their healthcare come from?
Raphael
How can we be sure these people are safe and not criminals? We need to prioritize national security.
Donatello
Our resources are already stretched thin. Adding 500,000 more people will cripple the system.
Raphael
What about the impact on wages for Canadians? More competition for jobs means lower pay.