By CBC News |
Premier Jason Kenney says changes are coming to Alberta’s immigration practices as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Although the government won’t yet release details, the premier said the province can accommodate fewer newcomers as a result of global travel restrictions and Alberta’s economic crisis. He made the comments during a Facebook live video question and answer session on Wednesday night.
He said the government will push Alberta employers to “do everything they possibly can to look within Alberta to the huge and growing number of unemployed people” when hiring.
A formal policy announcement should come within weeks, a government spokesperson said Thursday.
However, immigration lawyers cautioned any rapid changes to immigration rules could have unintended consequences.
Although business prospects are rough right now, Calgary lawyer Evelyn Ackah said they will bounce back. When they do, they’re going to need immigrants to do the jobs Canadians just won’t do, she said.
Few Canadians apply for jobs in slaughterhouses or at fast-food restaurants, lawyers say.