Ontario Premier Doug Ford has abruptly reversed a recent pledge that his provincial government would begin issuing work permits to asylum seekers\u2014a role traditionally held by the federal government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At last week\u2019s Council of the Federation meeting, Ford claimed Ontario would invoke Section\u202f95 of the Constitution to provide immediate work permits, citing federal processing delays that he said forced asylum seekers to wait up to two years before being allowed to work. He called on provinces to take control of immigration functions to ease the backlog and help people integrate into the workforce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, following pushback and federal clarification that asylum seekers typically receive work permits within 45 days of filing a complete application, Ford stepped back from the proposal. \u201cI don\u2019t want to take the responsibility off the federal government,\u201d he explained at a press briefing. No reason was offered for the policy reversal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
IRCC officials confirmed that, on average, decision-making takes about 45 days\u2014though actual wait times vary\u2014and assured ongoing coordination with provinces to plan future immigration targets for 2026\u20132028.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
New Democratic Party Leader Marit Stiles criticized Ford\u2019s flip\u2011flop, stating he should focus on matters under provincial jurisdiction, such as health care and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Ford continues to call on the federal government to expedite permit processing and address what he describes as unsustainable delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This episode underscores the importance of accurate information in immigration discussions. While Premier Ford\u2019s concern about asylum seekers working is valid, the evidence indicates no two\u2011year delay in processing work permits. The matter remains firmly under federal jurisdiction, with IRCC projecting a 45\u2011day average turnaround. Ongoing cooperation between Ottawa and the provinces will shape future immigration planning.
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