The Big Five Podcast Immigrants say Canada is taking in too many immigrants. Plus: So long, Denis Coderre?
Jul 23, 2025
Join Paul Gott, the punk rock lead of Ripcordz and a Concordia journalism professor, along with Christina Chough, a passionate Spanish teacher from Dawson College. They delve into a recent poll revealing that many Canadians, including immigrants, feel overwhelmed by the current immigration influx. The conversation shifts to the alarming rise in opioid overdoses in Montreal, where paramedics face a crisis daily. They also reflect on former mayor Denis Coderre's departure from politics, sparking discussions on political legacies and societal challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Growing Immigration Concern in Canada
- A national poll shows 62% of Canadians, including 57% immigrants, think immigration levels are too high.
- Trust in immigrants and refugees has halved in 6 years, raising social trust concerns.
Policy Failure and Racism Erode Trust
- The government failed by increasing immigration without supporting housing and services.
- Low trust in immigrants stems partly from growing casual racism and misinformation.
Immigrant Competition and Housing Stress
- Housing affordability and social disconnection fuel immigration unease.
- Many immigrants feel competition for resources, explaining why some immigrants oppose high immigration levels.