**Canada to Decrease Immigration Numbers Amid Balancing Concerns, Says Trudeau**

In a significant policy shift, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Thursday that the nation will substantially reduce its immigration intake. The decision comes after acknowledging his administration's misjudgment in balancing post-pandemic labor needs and population growth.

Previously, Trudeau's Liberal government faced criticism for its plan to admit 500,000 new permanent residents annually over the next two years. Under the new directive, the target for the following year has been adjusted to 395,000 new permanent residents, with a further gradual reduction to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.

"We didn't get the balance right during the tumultuous times as we emerged from the pandemic," stated Trudeau. "While immigration is vital for Canada's future, it must be controlled and sustainable."

Amid internal party pressure and criticism over his immigration policies' impacts on housing affordability, Trudeau emphasized the need to stabilize population growth. Since April, Canada’s population has climbed to 41 million, up from 37.5 million in 2019. The government plans to use this period of reduced immigration to address critical areas like health care, housing, and social services.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller supported the Prime Minister's stance, noting that the lower immigration figures will alleviate the country's housing shortage. Acknowledging shifting public sentiment, Miller stated, "That volume that we have put forward is of concern." The government is now adapting its policies to address the challenges faced by Canadians while still aiming to grow the population responsibly.

Despite the policy adjustment, Canada remains committed to welcoming newcomers, albeit with more stringent controls. "We are an open country, but not everyone can come to this country," Miller remarked.

The Liberal government has historically prided itself on Canada's progressive immigration policy and its effective integration of newcomers into the economy. However, opposition leader Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party criticized Trudeau, accusing him of damaging the longstanding bipartisan consensus on immigration.

"He has destroyed our immigration system through his own personal incompetence," Poilievre charged. "He cannot fix what he broke on immigration and housing or anything else because he is busy fighting his own caucus."