Today on the Insights podcast, Don and David talk with Dr. Herb Emery from the University of New Brunswick about the changes to the immigration, temporary worker and international student levels announced by the federal government. The cuts are significant and could have a big impact on Atlantic Canada. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the importance of setting a population growth target to the implications in rural Atlantic Canada and the many communities that have been focused on immigration to help meet workforce demand. Will the cuts be necessary to address concerns, or will they return the region to population decline? Listen to this week's episode to find out.

Arguably, Newfoundland and Labrador is at one of the most consequential moments in its history. Among its challenges, the province is the oldest in the country and some of its most important industries are facing an uncertain future. At the same time, there are multiple opportunities for growth including new oil and gas development, mining projects, the use of wind energy to power new industries, tourism, as well as technology-based sectors. Dr. Rob Greenwood, Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development and Engagement, and Chief Economic Development Officer for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador joins Don and David this week to talk about NL Futures, an initiative meant to ensure the province can prosper in the years ahead. NL Futures has three main themes: labour market, productivity and boosting rural economic development capacity. Greenwood makes a strong case the province’s best days lie ahead.

Donald Savoie is back on the Insight's podcast talking about his new book Speaking Truth to Canadians about their Public Service. This is a sobering reflection on the state of the federal civil service in Canada written by someone who has spent his career studying government in Canada. The number of the federal civil servants has grown substantially in recent years while Canadians' satisfaction with public services has gone down. Forty years ago, around 25% of the workforce was located in Ottawa and now it is closer to 50%. Unfortunately, there is no easy solution to the challenge, but this book represents a good starting point diagnosing the main issues and detailing how previous governments tried to increase the effectiveness of the civil service. It is vitally important for Canada to have an effective public service with a motivated and engaged workforce. This conversation is well worth an hour of your time.