Carney won't rule out Quebec-style immigration deal for Alberta as Smith rules out second referendum
Global News reported on Wednesday that Prime Minister Mark Carney will not rule out giving Alberta a Quebec-style immigration deal. The story followed remarks by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre on Tuesday that the Liberals have lost control of immigration. Quebec's arrangement gives the province a larger role in immigration than other provinces have. Headlines this week also reported that Alberta's Smith said separation is now a dead issue and ruled out a second referendum. Other headlines reported that Smith vows to push for more Alberta autonomy.
Immigration is shared between Ottawa and the provinces, and the Quebec model shows a province can take on more of it by agreement. For Alberta, a deal would be one concrete form of the autonomy Smith says she wants without separation.
If you live in Alberta or plan to move there, a provincial role in immigration could change how newcomers are selected over time. Nothing has been agreed, so no rules change now.
Poilievre's view, as reported, is that the Liberals have lost control of immigration. The Carney response, not ruling out an Alberta deal, is presented as openness to provincial arrangements.
Smith's view, in this week's headlines, is that separation is a dead issue and the answer is more autonomy inside Canada. This frames any immigration deal as part of a unity argument rather than a step toward leaving.
Confirmed: Carney did not rule out an Alberta immigration deal, and Smith ruled out a second referendum. Not confirmed: whether talks are under way, or what a deal would contain. Watch for any formal request from Alberta and for federal officials' wording.
DailyDrop Canada edition No. 18 · Morning · THU., OCT. 22, 2026