Last Updated On 20 October 2025, 10:12 AM EDT (Toronto Time)
Prime Minister Mark Carney says a major update to Canada’s immigration policy—specifically involving temporary residents in Canada—will arrive within the next few weeks.
In an extended interview with Red FM, Carney discussed issues ranging from immigration and crime to affordability, tariffs, and the economy, while reflecting on Diwali’s message of light and hope.
The conversation offered Canadians a rare, detailed glimpse into the federal government’s priorities: tighter immigration control, stronger community safety, a push for economic self-reliance, and long-term affordability relief.
A Message Of Light And Hope During Diwali
The interview began on a personal note as the host welcomed Carney to the studio during Diwali week—described as a “festival of lights and hope.”
Carney responded warmly: “First, happy Diwali to you and to everyone listening. I’m going to a Diwali celebration just after this—the first of many. It’s a special time of year, and of course, with the contrast between the light and the darkness.”
He compared Diwali’s symbolism to Canada’s moment in history. “We Canadians have experienced some of the darkness this year, and out of darkness comes light—or at least what we are seeing in our country is Canadians coming together, moving towards light, and seeing what we can make of the situation ourselves.”
The Prime Minister emphasized focusing on what lies within national control. “Let’s focus on what we can control. We can’t control the United States—no one can—but we can control events here in Canada. We can control how many homes we build, how we protect our communities, and how we build new partnerships around the world.”
He concluded this section by tying Diwali’s moral lesson to Canada’s civic values. “We do it in a way that’s unique to this country, because it’s not just about taking care of ourselves but taking care of each other at the same time. And of course, at Diwali, there’s a huge emphasis on this.”
Summary Table Of Key Points
| Topic | Key Statements from Prime Minister Mark Carney | Timing Mentioned |
|---|---|---|
| Immigration tightening | Asylum claims down ⅓, foreign students down ⅔, temporary foreign workers down > 70% | Past 6 months |
| Upcoming immigration levels plan | “In about two three weeks time we’ll be releasing our immigration plan … our next immigration levels plan.” | 2–3 weeks |
| Crime and extortion | Bishnoy gang listed as terrorist organization; tougher bail laws; 1,000 new RCMP and 1,000 border agents | Immediate / ongoing |
| Trade policy | “My job is to get the best possible deal, the lowest possible tariff for Canadian businesses with the U.S.” 85 % trade duty-free | Current policy |
| China relations | “We are restarting that dialogue … Foreign Minister is in China … I met the Chinese PM … likely to meet President soon.” | Ongoing |
| Affordability and housing | Carbon-tax cut; income-tax cut for 22 million Canadians; 65,000 affordable homes at Downsview | Present / planned |
| Tax system and budget | Child care worth $5,800 per child in Ontario; spend less and eliminate duplication in budget | Few weeks |
| Economic outlook | “IMF projects Canada second-fastest G7 growth; wages now growing faster than inflation.” | Current / next 2 years |
| Generational budget | “We need to pass the budget … to create hundreds of thousands of high-paying jobs.” | 2 weeks |
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Confronting Extortion And Tightening Immigration
The discussion soon shifted toward public-safety concerns. The host, Shameel Jasvir, noted that many community members believe individuals involved in large-scale extortion rings entered Canada through various visa programs—arguing that the problem reflected weaknesses in the immigration system rather than policing.
Carney acknowledged the seriousness of the issue. “The first step is to recognize the scale of the problem and take action on many levels,” he said.
He credited local and provincial police for doing their jobs but outlined how the federal government would reinforce those efforts. “Let’s start with the extortion. Let’s start with immigration. We’ve now listed the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization. That brings more powers and more action against them.”
Carney provided concrete figures to illustrate how his government had already moved to tighten entry channels.
“Since I’ve become Prime Minister, over the last six months, we have seen the level of asylum claims go down by one-third, the number of foreign students go down by two-thirds, and the overall levels of temporary foreign workers go down by more than 70 percent. All the incoming levels have gone down quite sharply.”
The Prime Minister added that while immigration enforcement was essential, legislation was also being updated to make criminal penalties tougher.
“Part of what I announced on October 17 is that we will be tabling legislation next week in the House of Commons. It will make bail much harder to get for violent crimes—home invasion, extortion, auto theft with violence, any crime that’s gang-related or using a firearm. Bail becomes something you have to prove you deserve, as opposed to the current system which presumes you will get bail.”
He also promised stronger sentencing and more police capacity.
“We announced on October 17 a thousand more RCMP officers to work on gang-related, terrorist-related, and foreign-interference issues. And this morning I announced a thousand more border-security agents, because we have to tighten our southern border. That’s where a lot of the guns and drugs come through—and also some individuals.”
Carney underscored the need for coordination.
“Cooperation is very important. I’m in touch with the head of the Canadian Police Association. I sat down with Premier Ford on October 17 to talk about how we can work better together. That’s the same whether it’s Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim or others across the country. We need to work together. The federal government needs to do its job—and we are doing our job. We’re getting tough on these issues.”
Out-Of-Status Residents And A New Immigration Levels Plan
Turning to another sensitive topic, the host mentioned that an MP had warned in Parliament that millions could become out of status in coming years, leaving them vulnerable and at risk of being pushed toward crime.
Carney first provided perspective.
“Most people in Canada—either themselves or their parents or grandparents—were immigrants to this country at one time,” he said.
He then drew attention to how rapidly the non-permanent-resident share had grown.
“It used to be about 3 percent of the population. Before I became Prime Minister, it had gone up to seven and a half percent. That’s a big, big increase.”
He described the challenge as twofold: helping those contributing members of society integrate fully, and returning those not eligible to stay.
“Our challenge is to make sure we rapidly build up our ability for those who are here—who are working and building a life—to do that. Those who should go back, asylum seekers who are not going to ultimately get asylum, that we return them, track them, and return them.”
He confirmed that new details would arrive very soon.
“We’re doing all of those things. In about two or three weeks’ time, we’ll be releasing our immigration plan—our next immigration levels plan—and that will include many of the steps that we’ll be taking around these issues.”
Tariffs, Trade, And Building At Home
The conversation then shifted from immigration to trade policy. The host referenced Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s comments on tariffs and asked Carney how he viewed tariffs in today’s globalized economy.
Carney replied, “Our job—my job—is to get the best possible deal, the lowest possible tariff for Canadian businesses with the United States relative to everyone else.”
He elaborated that 85 percent of Canada’s trade with the U.S. carries no tariff at all, and that Canada’s average tariff rate is slightly above 5 percent, compared with a global average near 17 percent.
Carney reiterated a central theme: domestic strength and diversification.
“I can’t emphasize this enough, Shamil, which is that what we really need to do at the same time is build here at home. We have all the ability to have a bright future for Canada just building at home and also diversifying our partners abroad away from the United States. It’s not a judgment on them; it’s just recognizing their policy—but building up with other countries.”
Chinese EVs And Renewed Dialogue With China
When asked specifically about tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, Carney said multiple factors were involved—both domestic and international.
“With respect to Chinese EVs, there are a variety of issues to consider,” he explained.
“One is the impact on our domestic auto industry at a time when it’s under pressure because of American tariffs. But it’s also a question of our broader trade relationship with China.”
He continued, “China is our second-largest trading partner. We have, for good reason, not had dialogue with the Chinese for a number of years. We are restarting that dialogue—that partnership—as we speak today. Our Foreign Minister is in China. I met with the Chinese Prime Minister a few weeks ago. It’s likely I’ll meet with the Chinese President in due course.”
Carney suggested the thawing relationship could benefit both countries.
“Whether it’s Chinese EVs, Canadian agricultural products, or other opportunities for trade, I believe we’re going to see a much broader trade with China, which will be good for Canada. We’ll do this in a responsible way. It’ll lessen our dependence on the United States, but we have to do it in a smart way—to ensure our auto sector, under pressure because of American tariffs, has a chance to adjust and become stronger itself.”
Affordability, Housing, And Cost-Of-Living Pressures
The host then brought up affordability concerns, noting that in his community, many people took out large mortgages during the housing boom and are now on the edge financially—some even facing bankruptcy.
Carney responded firmly that affordability remains a top priority. “The first thing to do is tackle all aspects of affordability,” he said.
“Day one in office, we cut the consumer carbon tax. After the election, when I was elected as Prime Minister, we came in and cut income taxes for everyone in Canada who pays tax—so 22 million Canadians will receive from this year an income-tax cut.”
He listed several ongoing actions: “Cutting taxes on first-time home buyers, making sure there’s more competition in the telecom sector so broadband costs go down, making sure that Canadians who may be stretched receive child care if they need it. We’re backing that—dental care, pharmacare—and addressing housing more broadly.”
Carney referred to a local example. “Not far from this studio in Downsview, we just announced the first phase of Build Canada Homes—almost 65,000 affordable homes that will be built with Canadian technology, Canadian workers, Canadian lumber, affordable by Canadian families.”
As the host pressed further—saying some Canadians feel half of their income goes to taxes and asking whether the tax system needs serious change—Carney outlined his government’s approach.
“We need to tackle affordability in every respect,” he replied. “We’ve cut taxes. We’re preserving social programs, particularly for the most vulnerable Canadians and middle-class Canadians, to help them and support them.”
He gave a specific example. “Child care—if you have child care in Ontario, it’s worth $5,800 a year. That’s the value of that low-cost child care to that family per child. These are big and important support programs.”
He also mentioned that efficiency reforms are coming.
“We need to get government the right size. Our budget’s coming up in a few weeks. You’re going to see us spend less, eliminate waste, duplication of programs, so that we can invest more—in housing, new energy, port infrastructure, new trade routes. As we build all of that out, it’s going to create a much stronger economy. In a stronger economy, we can make the bigger changes to our tax system that people want.”
When Will Canada’s Economy Turn The Corner?
In the final segment, the host asked what many Canadians are wondering: when the economy will truly start to improve.
Carney answered carefully.
“We’re being hit by the biggest economic shock that we’ve seen in generations—because of the U.S. change,” he said. “But our economy is still growing. The IMF just put out their forecast—they think the Canadian economy will be the second-fastest growing economy in the G7 over the next two years.”
He listed additional signs of resilience:
“Over the last six months, we have actually grown jobs in this economy. Wages are growing now faster than inflation. Yes, there are food products and others where inflation has been higher, but overall, the rate of inflation is now growing less rapidly than wages. The cost of living is still too high—that’s clear—but we’re starting to move in the right direction.”
Carney emphasized that a forthcoming federal budget will be pivotal.
“In order to feel that momentum, we need to pass the budget we’re going to propose in two weeks’ time because this budget is generational. This will help define this country—the scale of investment to create hundreds of thousands of high-paying, high-skilled jobs for people listening to this program.”
He spoke directly to younger Canadians. “If you’re young and want to go into the skilled trades, with our budget, we are going to create those jobs.”
Ultimately, he said, the goal is to make Canada economically self-reliant.
“It’s about creating a much stronger economy so we can’t be sideswiped by decisions south of the border and are in control of our own destiny. That is truly turning the corner.”
Before ending the interview, the host asked whether Carney had any final message for the community.
Carney returned to the Diwali theme and referenced Canadian poet Leonard Cohen.
“There’s a great Canadian songwriter and poet who talked about ringing a bell that’s not perfect—and there’s a crack in everything, but that’s how the light gets in.”
He linked the metaphor to Canada’s current journey.
“The message of darkness and light, and the message of hope at Diwali, is part of what we’re experiencing as a country—because of the community that listens to your program, because of the core values that are Canadian values. We take care of each other, but we’re also a strong and ambitious nation. We can see the light, and we’re going to move towards it and create that light for our country, for our neighbors, and for our children.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mark Carney said about temporary residents?
He confirmed that asylum, student, and worker numbers have already fallen sharply and hinted at further reductions to be detailed in the November 2025 Immigration Levels Plan.
Will there be new pathways to permanent residency?
Not confirmed officially, but skilled temporary residents filling key labour shortages may be expedited with clearer routes to permanent residency.
What happens to temporary residents without in-demand skills?
They may face tougher renewal conditions as immigration becomes more closely aligned with Canada’s workforce needs.
How will fake asylum seekers be handled?
Fraudulent or unfounded claims will face expedited processing and removal from Canada.
What crime and security measures is Canada taking now?
The government will hire 1,000 new RCMP officers and 1,000 border agents, introduce stricter bail laws, and classify the Bishnoy gang as a terrorist group.
What is Canada doing to address affordability?
Tax reductions, GST removal on first homes, 65,000 new affordable housing units, and expanded childcare and healthcare programs.
When will the new Canada immigration plan be announced?
Within two to three weeks of the interview — expected by November 1, 2025.
How is Canada responding to U.S. tariffs?
By maintaining low tariffs with the U.S. while diversifying trade partnerships, including renewed dialogue with China.
What are the economic forecasts?
The IMF ranks Canada as the second-fastest-growing G7 economy, with comparative wages now rising faster than inflation.
What is the overall policy of Mark Carney?
He says Canada is entering a new era of discipline, fairness, and optimism — reducing instability while expanding opportunity for those who contribute.
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