A group of workers gathered in downtown Charlottetown to express their discontent with recent changes to Prince Edward Island’s immigration streams. They voiced their intention to stage daily protests until adjustments are made to the regulations.
Rupinder Pal Singh, one of the demonstrators, emphasized their desire for permanent residency in the province. Singh expressed disappointment over the alteration of rules, stating they felt excluded despite their aspirations to contribute to the province’s growth.
In February, the provincial government announced a reduction in the number of nominees for permanent residency through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The decision, attributed in part to strains on the healthcare system and housing market, will result in a 25% decrease in nominees for 2024. The new population strategy allocates priority to individuals in specific occupations such as healthcare and construction.
Singh, who has resided in Charlottetown for a year and a half, emphasized the contributions made by workers like himself to the economy. He expressed concerns about the impact of these changes on his ability to remain in the province, particularly as his work permit nears expiration.
The amended PNP program introduces a points system implemented in July of the previous year. Singh highlighted the challenge posed by the new system, noting that individuals now require over 65 points to qualify for permanent residency. As a 22-year-old, he faces difficulty accumulating the necessary points, particularly due to his age category’s lower point allocation.
Singh, employed as an internet tech sales representative, expressed frustration over the program’s shift towards prioritizing certain occupations. He fears that his occupation, along with others like sales and services, will be disregarded under the new regulations.
Navpreet, another protester, shared her disappointment at the prospect of having to return to India after spending five years in Canada. Despite her employment in the tech sector, she expressed skepticism about the possibility of obtaining an extension under the revised program.
Jaspreet Singh, echoing similar sentiments, voiced concerns about the uncertainty surrounding his future in Canada. He emphasized the need for government intervention to address the challenges faced by immigrant workers like himself.
In response to the protests, Charlottetown-West Royalty MLA Gord McNeilly met with the demonstrators, acknowledging their grievances. McNeilly criticized the government’s failure to provide exemptions for workers already residing in the province, urging authorities to reconsider their approach.
While the immigration minister has suggested that the changes are temporary, protesters remain apprehensive about their future prospects in Prince Edward Island. They emphasize the importance of fair treatment and opportunities for immigrants already contributing to the province’s workforce.