The St. Paul, Elk Point (STEP) Economic Development Alliance has announced a temporary suspension of the Rural Renewal Stream (RRS) program, effectively until March 2025.
In late November, the STEP Alliance stated that the pause will provide time for a comprehensive evaluation of recent changes to the AAIP. Specifically, the alliance is reviewing the impact of adjustments, including the implementation of the Expression of Interest (EOI) system, which began in September.
The EOI system requires candidates to self-declare their qualifications and skills, which are then scored and ranked using a points grid. Candidates are placed in a worker stream pool and selected for application invitations based on rankings, labor market needs, and available nominations.
“During this pause, STEP will review and assess the evolving landscape of AAIP immigration policies and procedures to ensure that the Rural Renewal Program remains effective, efficient, and aligned with the needs of our communities,” reads the STEP Alliance’s announcement.
The STEP Alliance’s decision follows similar pauses in other rural municipalities, including the towns of Westlock and Fox Creek. Westlock halted its participation in the RRS in October citing increased processing times and challenges related to affordability and housing availability. Fox Creek noted federal plans to reduce immigration levels as a factor in its decision.
The pause reflects broader concerns about now recent changes in immigration policy and labor market conditions will impact rural-focused initiatives.
The STEP Alliance intends to resume the Rural Renewal Stream program in March 2025 after completing its review and aligning with updated AAIP policies.
The program, part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), was created to address labor shortages in rural Alberta by allowing employers in designated municipalities to hire foreign nationals without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
