Article content
A Liberal MP representing Brampton is behind a Commons petition, introduced Monday, asking the feds to give aid and permanent residency to foreign students and migrant workers at risk of departure or deportation.
Article content
MP Amandeep Sodhi, 24, who is a member of the Commons immigration committee, sponsored the petition without comment, according to Blacklock’s Reporter.
Article content
Official estimates are that more than three million foreigners are in Canada on valid or expired temporary permits.
“Government messaging remains vague and inconsistent,” said the petition. “Canada must provide clear timelines and realistic pathways to permanence for those who have already demonstrated their commitment to this country.”
The petition asks cabinet to “implement a clear national policy that provides fair, transparent and predictable pathways to permanent residency for temporary residents already living in Canada who are integrated in the society, have been paying taxes and are essential to Canadian businesses.”
Article content
FOREIGNERS ‘NOT TO BLAME’ FOR THE CURRENT SYSTEM
It also asked that Parliament provide funding “for temporary residents facing status insecurity and distress,” “prioritize the needs and futures of temporary residents already contributing to Canada before expanding new admissions from abroad,” and “publicly recognize that international students and temporary workers are not to blame for the current system.”
In a May 1 briefing note, the immigration department said there were millions of foreigners in Canada without landed immigrant status.
“As of January 1, 2025 Canada’s non-permanent resident population was estimated at approximately 3,049,277,” it said.
In its Nov. 4 budget, Cabinet proposed a sharp reduction in new permits for foreign students and migrant workers from 673,650 this year to 385,000 in 2026 and 370,000 in 2027.
“We are taking back control over the immigration system,” it said.
Sodhi is currently serving her first term as a Liberal MP after graduating from the University of Western Ontario.
RECOMMENDED VIDEO
We apologize, but this video has failed to load.
Share this article in your social network
