Cost of living, immigration spark criticism at latest Alberta Next town hall in Edmonton

Immigration and the rising cost of living sparked criticism and public dissatisfaction during the third Alberta Next town hall Thursday evening in Edmonton.In an explanatory video, the panel discussed Alberta’s immigration challenges, blaming the federal government’s policy. The panel blamed the housing crisis and unemployment on immigration.That was when multiple participants said the government should not blame the cost of living on immigration, citing the need to build more houses and the need for skilled professionals.“I’m a skilled worker. I came here 15 years ago. I brought my education and work experience, and Canada paid nothing for my education and work experience that I did in another country. I didn’t study for free in Sweden and Iran, and you didn't pay for that. And I even brought $10,000 with me when I came to Canada,” a Canadian-Iranian participant said. “And if you are talking about the refugees that come here with less money or less educational or work experience, they have come from war.”Premier Danielle Smith responded by saying that the issue is not about being anti-immigrant, but about the sheer number of newcomers and the strain it puts on resources..What happens to your pension if Alberta creates its own plan?.She noted that Canada once had an immigration system people were proud of, but recent surges — with 450,000 newcomers arriving in Alberta over three years — have caused social tension.Smith suggested a more sustainable level would be around one per cent of the population per year, or roughly 50,000 people in Alberta. She also pointed to Quebec’s model of international engagement, highlighting their numerous international offices and direct negotiations on trade, suggesting Alberta should follow a similar path to better manage its economic and immigration interests.“It is a matter of what is the right level and what can we absorb. So not only can we afford it as taxpayers, but for a newcomer arriving, they have the support that they need as well. So, I hope that you take it in that spirit,” Smith said.An economics professor at Concordia University, Moshe Lander, told the Western Standard Friday that Smith is partly right, but exaggerates the issue.Lander compared Canada’s lack of preparation to hosting a guest without proper accommodations..What happens if Alberta stops making the equalization payments?.“The big problem is matching immigrants with the housing infrastructure and medical and educational needs they come with. If I invite a guest to my home, and when the guest shows up I say: ‘Oh, I don't have any bed coverings for you. I don't have any towels for you. I don't have any food for you — but you're welcome to come,’ who’s to blame? The guest or the host? That’s the host,” said Lander."Canada invited a whole bunch of immigrants to come to the country but didn’t do what was necessary to make their stay a welcome one. That’s on Canada, not the immigrant. The immigrant should never be held responsible for showing up,”According to Lander, Canada should be held responsible for not being ready to welcome immigrants. This could be done through building infrastructure and more houses to absorb the numbers..Petition on Alberta’s future in Canada collecting signatures in Calgary this week