Canada’s immigration system is at a crossroads, and nowhere is this more evident than in Quebec. The Canadian immigration conversation has taken a sharp turn after the Federation of Chambers of Commerce of Quebec (FCCQ) urged the province to welcome at least 106,000 new immigrants annually. This comes in response to a looming labour crisis that could affect businesses, public services, and the economy as a whole.
According to Quebec’s Ministry of Employment, the province will need to fill 1.4 million positions by 2033. The main reasons? Large-scale retirements, the creation of new jobs, and a shortage of young workers entering the labour market.
The Gap Between Current Plans and Labour Market Reality
The current Quebec government plans to cap permanent residents at 45,000 per year while reducing temporary immigration. However, the FCCQ argues that this approach falls far short of the labour market’s needs. Their proposal includes 67,000 permanent residents and 39,000 temporary workers annually, a figure they see as the minimum needed to keep the economy running.
Right now, 445,000 temporary immigrants already hold jobs in Quebec. Cutting these numbers could leave thousands of roles in manufacturing, healthcare, and service sectors unfilled, leading to potential business closures and slower economic growth.
Why Technology Alone Can’t Solve the Shortage
Some believe automation can fill the gap, but the FCCQ insists technology is only part of the answer. They highlight companies like Meloche, an aerospace manufacturer that has invested heavily in automation but still depends on skilled foreign workers to meet production needs.
As FCCQ President Véronique Proulx explains, “There is no robot that can do certain jobs as well as humans.” While innovation is essential, industries still require human expertise, adaptability, and problem-solving — qualities that machines can’t fully replicate.
Immigration as an Economic Growth Strategy
The FCCQ emphasizes that immigration is not just about filling vacancies, it’s about ensuring long-term economic stability. A steady inflow of skilled workers supports industries, maintains public services, and encourages regional development.
To make this work, Quebec would need to improve housing availability, strengthen integration services, and collaborate closely with businesses. Many employers are already investing in housing solutions to help accommodate new arrivals, showing that the private sector is ready to be part of the solution.
The Road Ahead for Canadian Immigration
The debate in Quebec could influence broader Canadian immigration policy. If the province raises its thresholds to meet economic needs, it could set an example for other regions facing similar challenges. Balancing population growth, job market demands, and integration capacity will be key.
Canada’s economic future depends on making strategic, data-driven immigration decisions. Meeting Quebec’s workforce needs today could mean safeguarding the country’s prosperity tomorrow.
Quebec’s labour shortage is more than a provincial challenge; it’s a national issue that could redefine Canadian immigration priorities. By aligning immigration levels with workforce needs, Canada can secure a strong, stable, and prosperous future for all.
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