The City of Brooks intervened to assist Ebenezer Asare’s pharmacy after losing three pharmacists within six months. The pharmacists relocated to Calgary and other major cities, drawn by the increased job opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Asare had to hire locums to maintain operations, resulting in additional expenses due to travel and accommodation costs. However, Brooks had a program specifically designed to address this issue.

Since 2022, the city of Brooks, with a population of approximately 18,000, has collaborated with the provincial government to gain more control over immigration decisions. This initiative involves providing targeted endorsement letters to support local businesses in need of skilled workers. While the program has faced some obstacles, it proved successful for Asare. He managed to recruit nine pharmacists from overseas, facilitated permanent residency for many through the city’s endorsement letters, and established a system for their training and recertification.

The upcoming referendum in Alberta will include a vote on whether the province should have increased authority over immigration matters. Immigration is typically under federal jurisdiction, but Alberta has been exploring avenues for more localized control, such as the rural renewal stream program in Brooks.

Ottawa has made significant changes to its immigration selection process, shifting towards attracting individuals with skills in high-demand sectors post-pandemic. This change aligns with Alberta’s approach to nominating individuals for permanent residency through targeted categories like tourism and rural economies.

The program initiated by Brooks, known as the rural renewal stream, aimed to address labor shortages in the region. While it initially garnered significant interest, some municipalities scaled back their participation due to oversubscription and slow processing times. However, many economic development officers highlighted the program’s value in helping local businesses retain workers and support their communities.

The shift towards industry-specific immigration strategies has its advantages, but it may lead to short-term solutions and potential challenges in long-term planning. Immigrants often plan their moves well in advance, and frequent changes in immigration policies can disrupt their plans, potentially increasing fraudulent activities.

As the referendum approaches, the debate over immigration control in Alberta intensifies, with political considerations playing a significant role. The question posed in the referendum reflects broader sentiments about immigration levels and priorities. The decision on increased immigration control will not only impact local communities but also have broader implications for the future of immigration in Canada.