SASKATOON, Sask. — Premier Scott Moe said he supports giving provinces a greater role in shaping Canada’s immigration system, with a strong emphasis on economic immigration that benefits newcomers, their families, local communities and the broader economy.
Since 2022, Saskatchewan has sought greater autonomy over immigration and has even proposed an immigration accord, a detailed proposal that would give the provincial government Quebec-style control over immigration policy, the premier said.
Moe, speaking days after preliminary results showed 54.8 per cent of votes cast in Alberta's referendum supported increased provincial control over immigration, believes provinces should have more input into immigration priorities, numbers and refugee policies.
He recognized that Saskatchewan and Alberta may have different needs than other parts of Canada. He said provinces should also be more involved in the national immigration system, adding that he supports co-operative federalism and encourages more collaboration.
“You're going across a broad spectrum of immigration to a number of constitutional changes that the questions were being asked on. I think there is an opportunity for provinces, as we've always said, to be much more involved in our national immigration system or national immigration procedures,” said Moe.
“I've said, for one, that any time we're talking about immigration across Canada and Saskatchewan, it should very much be focused on economic immigration. It's good for the individual that is coming here to have a job, to have a career, and have an opportunity.”
He added that a new immigrant who arrives in Saskatchewan with a job benefits not only their family, since they have income to support their needs, but also the community they live in, the province and the country’s economy as a whole.
Moe said the immigration policy discussion should also include student visas and refugee policy, noting that Canada is a compassionate country that helps those in need.
“There is always space for conversation around refugees. Doing what we do as Canadians, which is not only helping and supporting one another, but also supporting our global citizens around the world,” said Moe, who is expected to hold meetings with his government’s federal counterparts this weekend.
“How that system works and the priorities and the numbers that would flow into each of those various segments? I think there should be that cooperative federalism. That discussion is happening, because the priorities might be different in Saskatchewan, Alberta than maybe in Atlantic Canada, for example.”
He said he welcomes the co-operative federalism that Prime Minister Mark Carney is bringing, and he encouraged the Liberal government to bring that type of leadership to the table not only in immigration discussions but also on other issues affecting the country.
“We've been pretty clear with respect to our position on immigration as a whole, but it's an ongoing discussion. And I'd say in today's day and age, all you need to do is turn on the news in the morning and something has changed from yesterday, and that's even true,” Moe added.
