Achi news desk-
The Premier of Quebec, François Lego, is increasing pressure on the federal government to reduce the number of temporary immigrants in the province, and is threatening to hold a “referendum” on the issue.
Legault told reporters today that holding a referendum is not in his government’s short-term plans, but he suggested that could change if Prime Minister Justin Trudeau does not meet Quebec’s demands.
The premier says Quebec’s 560,000 temporary immigrants are overtaxing social services and putting the French language at risk — and he says the vast majority of Quebecers agree.
Legault says Quebec’s leverage in the negotiations is to gain the “support” of the population, adding that whether it will hold a referendum on the issue depends on whether Trudeau gives the province more powers on immigration.
After a meeting with Trudeau in mid-March, Lego said the prime minister is open to giving Quebec more power, including by requiring temporary foreign workers to be approved by the province before they can move there.
Legault says Trudeau has “promised” him another meeting by June 30 and that he is “waiting for results” from the prime minister.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on April 9, 2024.
