Quebec's decision to end the Programme de l'expérience québécoise (PEQ) last November has ignited a firestorm of controversy that shows no signs of cooling. For thousands of immigrants, this move feels like a betrayal, shattering their dreams of building a life in Quebec. Despite widespread protests and criticism, the government remains steadfast in its decision, insisting the new immigration rules are here to stay. But the backlash isn't fading—far from it.
And this is the part most people miss: It's not just about the program's cancellation. Immigrants are furious that Quebec isn't grandfathering in those who were already in the province, leaving them stranded without a clear path to permanent residency. For months, advocates have demanded exemptions for these individuals, but the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government has refused to budge. Yet, several factors suggest this issue will continue to simmer.
Take Nadir Belaid, for example, a corporate paralegal who moved to Quebec from Algeria in 2019. He's one of the faces of Le Québec, c'est nous aussi (We Are Also Part of Quebec), a group fighting for justice. "I invested my time, money, and energy to build a life here," Belaid said. "I feel totally betrayed and abandoned by the government."
With the PEQ gone, the only remaining option for economic immigrants is the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), a narrower and more competitive pathway. Under this system, applicants are scored on education, French proficiency, and work experience. But as Quebec's Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge bluntly stated, "Nothing is automatic" for those who relied on the PEQ. The new rules prioritize certain sectors, like healthcare and education, while penalizing applicants in cities like Montreal and Laval.
But here's where it gets controversial: Many argue that Quebec's actions are not just unfair but morally wrong. Ben Mahi, another Algerian immigrant, accused the government of breaking its promises. "They encouraged us to come, to learn French, and then they say, 'We don’t need you anymore,'" he said. This sense of betrayal fuels the ongoing protests and legal challenges, with one immigration lawyer reportedly preparing to take the issue to court.
Interestingly, it's not just immigrants who are outraged. Unions, business groups, and even prominent mayors have spoken out against the government's stance. Montreal's Soraya Martinez Ferrada pledged to advocate for affected immigrants, while Quebec City's Bruno Marchand criticized the province for turning its back on valuable contributors. "These are people who speak French, are established, and contribute to our economy," he said. "Creating uncertainty for them harms not just individuals but our businesses."
Is Quebec shooting itself in the foot? Business leaders like Véronique Proulx, head of the Quebec federation of chambers of commerce, warn that companies across sectors risk losing workers due to the PEQ's end. "The program provided certainty for businesses and employees, boosting regional economies," she said. With François Legault stepping down as premier, some see an opportunity for a new approach. But will the next leader listen?
As the debate rages on, one question lingers: Is Quebec's immigration policy a necessary tightening of control, or a shortsighted betrayal of those who sought to call it home? What do you think? Is the government justified, or has it gone too far? Share your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is far from over.
