Hub Podcasts Should Canadian immigration levels be lowered?
Dec 14, 2025
Join former Alberta Prime Minister Jason Kenney, a conservative figure advocating for lower immigration, and Andrew Coyne, a sharp political commentator from The Globe and Mail. They engage in a spirited debate about Canadian immigration levels. Kenney argues that high immigration strains housing and infrastructure, while Coyne contends that effective immigration supports economic growth and addresses demographic challenges. The discussion touches on social cohesion, policy failures in housing, and a vision for Canada’s future population growth.
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High Intake Can Overwhelm Capacity
- Jason Kenney warns that unmanaged high intake can turn immigration into a net negative by overwhelming housing and services.
- He argues the Trudeau-era expansion broke selection integrity and damaged public support for immigration.
Kenney's Ministerial Caution
- Jason Kenney recalls recommending lower annual levels while he served as immigration minister despite overseeing high admissions.
- He notes 80% public support then, attributing it to a well-managed system.
Restore Human-Capital Selection
- Rebuild rigorous selection and integrity in the immigration system to restore public trust.
- Prioritize human-capital selection and clear rules to ensure economic and social integration.