Mark Carney Confirms Immigration Cut and New Plan Coming Soon

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will release a new immigration plan in the next two to three weeks. The plan will include significant changes for temporary residents already in the country. Speaking in an extended interview, Carney covered key national issues like immigration, crime, trade, affordability, and housing.

He said the government aims to manage temporary resident numbers more carefully while ensuring that those who contribute to Canada’s economy and society can continue building their lives here.

A Diwali Message of Hope

The interview began on a warm note as the host welcomed the Prime Minister during Diwali week, calling it a festival of “light and hope.”

Carney responded, “Happy Diwali to everyone listening. I’m going to a Diwali celebration just after this—the first of many.”

He reflected on the meaning of the festival. “We Canadians have experienced some darkness this year. But Canadians always find light. We come together and build something better.”

He urged Canadians to focus on what they can control. “We can’t control the United States, but we can control what happens here—how many homes we build, how we protect our communities, and how we build partnerships around the world.”

Tightening Immigration and Fighting Crime

Carney spoke openly about immigration reform and public safety. He said his government already reduced asylum claims by one-third, foreign students by two-thirds, and temporary foreign workers by more than 70 percent over the past six months.

He confirmed that the next immigration plan will detail further changes. “In about two or three weeks, we’ll be releasing our next immigration levels plan,” he said.

The Prime Minister also addressed community concerns about criminal activity linked to organized groups. He said, “We’ve now listed the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization. That brings more power and action against them.”

Carney announced the hiring of 1,000 new RCMP officers and 1,000 new border-security agents to strengthen law enforcement. He also said new laws will make bail harder to get for violent offenders.

Support for Struggling Canadians

Turning to affordability, Carney said, “Day one in office, we cut the carbon tax and income taxes for 22 million Canadians.”

He highlighted the construction of 65,000 affordable homes in Downsview, Ontario, as part of a national housing plan. He added that programs like low-cost child care and expanded dental and drug coverage help millions of families manage living costs.

Carney promised further steps to make the government more efficient. “We’re going to spend less, cut duplication, and invest more in housing, infrastructure, and jobs,” he said.

Trade and Economic Outlook

Carney said 85 percent of Canada’s trade with the U.S. has no tariffs and that he is working to keep trade relations strong while expanding ties with countries like China.

He said Canada’s economy is growing faster than expected. “The IMF projects Canada as the second-fastest-growing G7 economy. Wages are now growing faster than inflation,” he said.

Carney added that the next federal budget, due in two weeks, will create “hundreds of thousands of high-paying jobs” and mark a “generational turning point” for Canada’s economy.

Hope and Light for Canada’s Future

Ending on a personal note, Carney linked his message back to Diwali. “There’s a crack in everything—that’s how the light gets in,” he said, quoting Leonard Cohen. “We’re moving toward that light together as Canadians.”