Quebec Premier Calls on Prime Minister to Address Asylum Seeker Integration Concerns
Quebec Premier François Legault is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to take action regarding the integration of asylum seekers in Montreal. Legault emphasized the need for reducing the number of asylum seekers in the city to facilitate better French language integration, citing the current strain on resources and services.
During a press conference in Quebec City, Legault highlighted the challenges faced by the province, with Montreal hosting a significant portion of Canada’s asylum seekers. He stressed that beyond financial assistance, the focus should be on facilitating successful integration into the French language and culture.
In response to Quebec’s concerns, Prime Minister Carney stated that immigration to Canada is being managed effectively, with a notable decrease in asylum seekers. Carney also emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the French language through substantial investments in the cultural sector.
The issue has sparked tensions between Quebec and the federal government, with Quebec’s Immigration Minister, Jean-François Roberge, warning of potential cuts to social assistance for asylum seekers if additional support is not provided. Premier Legault had previously proposed relocating a significant number of asylum seekers and has been vocal in his criticism of federal officials’ handling of the language debate in Quebec.
The ongoing discourse has led to clashes between Quebec and federal authorities, with Legault condemning the federal Minister of Culture, Marc Miller, for his remarks on the decline of French in Quebec. These tensions highlight the complexities surrounding immigration, language, and integration in Canada.
