Support for Canada’s record-high immigration levels has plummeted, according to new polling by the Department of Immigration. Blacklock's Reporter says the decline in approval comes as Canadians express concerns over the strain on housing, social services, and societal integration, coinciding with heightened tensions following anti-Israel protests and incidents of antisemitic violence.A department-commissioned survey revealed 47% of respondents nationwide believe there are “too many” immigrants being admitted to Canada. That figure rose to 58% in Saskatchewan and 52% in Ontario. When informed of the federal plan to welcome 485,000 immigrants in 2024, 56% deemed it excessive, citing pressures on housing, public services, and job competition.“Canadians should be a priority,” stated one respondent, echoing the sentiment of others who criticized what they described as immigration mismanagement by the government.Concerns extended beyond capacity issues. Fifty-nine percent agreed immigration had “placed too much pressure on public services,” while 63% said immigrants needed to do more to integrate into Canadian society. Almost one-third expressed fears that refugees take jobs from Canadians, and 38% suggested refugees pose a risk to public safety.The poll, conducted by Léger Marketing Inc. and commissioned for $49,991, surveyed 2,279 Canadians last November. This period coincided with widespread street protests, antisemitic crimes, and tensions following Hamas’s October 7 attacks on Israel, which left eight Canadians among the victims.MPs condemned incidents such as synagogue firebombings, shots fired at a Jewish home in Winnipeg, and public prayers calling for violence against Jews. “What is the point of Canada’s hate propaganda laws if they are not enforced?” asked Independent MP Kevin Vuong (Spadina–Fort York, Ont.).In response to rising opposition and political pressures, the federal government revised its Immigration Levels Plan in October, reducing the 2024 target to 395,000. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described the adjustment as “a responsible level.”
