Alberta referendum questions don't target permanent residents, new Canadians: Schow

Source: Alberta - Edmonton Journal (Legislature & Capital)
Date: 2026-09-28 11:05:03.0
Tags: [Alberta, Immigration, Labour, Healthcare, Education, Governance]

Alberta Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Joseph Schow defended the upcoming October 19, 2026 referendum ballot, which features five questions asking Albertans if they wish to take more control over immigration policies, reduce temporary foreign worker and student numbers, and require temporary residents to contribute to education and healthcare costs. Schow stated the measures target an influx of temporary foreign workers and students that have strained public systems and contributed to a youth unemployment rate of 15 per cent. According to federal statistics cited, a total of 385,000 foreign workers and students are expected in Canada this year, with caps dropping to 370,000 in both 2027 and 2028.