Alberta Premier Danielle Smith Welcomes Federal Budget, Raises Concerns Over Immigration Changes

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has welcomed the latest federal budget, calling it an important step toward the province’s economic development. She particularly praised investments in major projects and tax reforms, which are expected to provide a significant boost to private-sector investment.

However, Smith expressed concerns over the proposed immigration changes, saying they are being introduced without consulting the provinces.

Under the federal government’s new plan, Canada will welcome 380,000 permanent residents and 370,000 temporary residents annually from 2027 to 2029. The plan also proposes granting permanent residency to up to 200,000 long-term temporary residents who have already applied.

Premier Smith said Alberta wants a special agreement similar to Quebec’s, allowing the province to directly recruit skilled workers from abroad based on its specific economic and labour market needs.