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Carney Backs Immigration Co-operation With Alberta Without Constitutional Change

Conceptual illustration of an empty meeting table with a Canadian flag and Ottawa skyline

Updated: 20 October 2026, 6:52 p.m. EDT (Toronto)

Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday that Ottawa and the provinces can work toward sustainable immigration levels without changing the Constitution, following Alberta’s referendum on immigration powers.

Speaking to reporters on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on 20 October, Carney said future immigration policy should be developed with the provinces. CTV News reported his response to questions about Monday’s vote.

Carney said he had spoken with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith that morning. Their discussion began with support for people affected by the deadly Wainwright military-base fire before turning to the referendum and shared priorities, including immigration.

CPAC’s recording of the press appearance confirms that Carney addressed both the unity vote and the other referendum questions.

The remarks set out his proposed approach to federal-provincial co-operation; they did not announce a transfer of immigration powers or new eligibility rules for services.

CTV reported that the federal government’s updated immigration levels plan will be released in November. Carney said the next stage of stabilising immigration should be determined with the provinces.

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