Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present e-petition 6522, which is signed by over 500 Canadians who are deeply concerned about recent federal policy changes that reduced international student study permits by over 40% and restricted post-graduation work permit eligibility without stakeholder consultation.
The petitioners warn that these cuts undermine Canada's ability to meet urgent workforce needs in health care, education, technology and the skilled trades. They note that universities and colleges, already underfunded, now face layoffs, program losses and reduced accessibility. The policy also destabilizes immigration pathways, delays certification for newcomers and threatens Canada's reputation as a global leader in education.
The petitioners call on the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to amend these caps, restore alignment with labour force needs, increase federal funding for post-secondary education, support affordable student housing and defend the vital role of higher learning education in Canada's economic future.