Quebec Protests Erupt Over Abolition of Immigration Program
Protests erupted across Quebec as hundreds of individuals rallied against the government’s decision to abolish a significant immigration program. Demonstrations took place in seven cities, including Montreal and Quebec City, where voices united against the cancellation of the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ).
Background on the PEQ Program
The Quebec government terminated the PEQ in November 2023. This popular program had been a pathway for temporary workers seeking permanent residency. With its cancellation, thousands of workers now face uncertainty about their future, with some required to return to their home countries.
Personal Stories of Impact
Among the protesters was Mariia Kolosova, who relocated from Ukraine in 2023, aiming to build a future in Quebec through the PEQ. “Many of us do not have a place to go back to,” she shared at the Montreal rally, emphasizing the abrupt disruption of their plans.
Kolosoava invested significant time studying French and pursuing a career in tourism to qualify for the program. Her hopes were dashed when the PEQ was abruptly replaced by a new system.
Introduction of the PSTQ Program
The Quebec government, led by Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge, unveiled a new skilled workers program known as the PSTQ. This successor program employs a complex points-based system favoring certain regions and sectors, such as health care and education.
Community Response and Lawsuits
Florent Pigeyre, an advisor representing French citizens abroad, noted a surge in inquiries from affected immigrants. Many families are facing separation due to the new regulations, which diverge significantly from the promises tied to the PEQ.
Pigeyre is organizing a lawsuit against the government, reflecting growing frustration among immigrants who were previously attracted to Quebec under the PEQ’s assurances.
Implications for Quebec’s Economy
Critics of the PSTQ argue that its implementation could adversely affect Quebec’s economy. Residents and officials fear that the new program undermines the stability of immigrant communities.
Maxime Gress, a member of an advocacy group, urged the government to provide exemptions for existing workers rather than focusing only on specific sectors. “We left everything behind,” he said, echoing the sentiment of many in the crowd.
Political Engagement
Politicians from various parties, including Quebec Liberal and Québec solidaire MNAs, joined the protests. They called on the government to allow PEQ applications for those who have already settled in the province.
“We need to ensure stability for the people who come here,” stated Québec solidaire co-spokesperson Sol Zanetti during the Quebec City demonstration.
Current Government Stance
Despite the outcry, the Quebec government maintains that the PSTQ can accommodate approximately 29,000 economic immigrants. However, Roberge has consistently rejected calls for PEQ exemptions, even as they continue processing existing applications.
Concluding Thoughts
The abolition of the PEQ has sparked widespread concern among immigrants and residents of Quebec. With demonstrations across the province, it is clear that the conversation around immigration policies will continue to evolve.
