Alberta panel formed to fight federal overreach questioned over proposed cuts to newcomers
The Alberta government has recently established a $2-million panel to address concerns regarding federal overreach in the province. However, two members of this panel, Adam Legge and Trevor Tombe, have distanced themselves from some of the controversial messaging on the panel’s website.
Adam Legge, president of the Business Council of Alberta, stated in an interview that he couldn’t comment on the content of the website, including a suggestion to cut social supports for certain newcomers. On the other hand, Trevor Tombe, a University of Calgary economist, mentioned that the ideas presented on the website originated with the government, and politicians are often in the business of persuading the public.
The panel, led by Premier Danielle Smith, aims to address concerns raised by citizens regarding federal interference in Alberta’s affairs. The website points to issues such as housing costs and unemployment being attributed to what it describes as “disastrous” immigration rates. It suggests that Alberta could issue its own immigration permits and restrict access to provincially-funded services for those without these permits.
While Legge expressed concerns about immigration levels, especially for temporary foreign workers and international students, Tombe emphasized the need for a more nuanced understanding of the issues at hand. He highlighted the complexity of factors such as population pressures, international students, and housing shortages, suggesting that a clearer definition of the concerns is necessary for productive policy discussions.
Criticism of the panel’s proposals has been swift, with opposition leaders and federal officials expressing disapproval. Federal Industry Minister Melanie Joly emphasized the importance of national unity, while Alberta Independent Senator Paula Simons condemned what she described as a “vile hate campaign” against immigrants. Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi also raised concerns about the extremist language used in the panel’s ideas.
In response to queries about the immigration issue, Smith’s press secretary, Sam Blackett, reiterated statements from the panel’s website. He mentioned the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, which fast-tracks permanent residency for workers in key sectors, as a potential solution. Blackett also clarified that permanent residents would not be denied access to services.
Overall, the Alberta Next panel’s proposals have sparked controversy and raised questions about the province’s approach to immigration and social services. As the panel continues its work and engages with Albertans, it remains to be seen how these contentious issues will be addressed and resolved.
