Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced a reduction in the number of temporary foreign workers. He stated that this decision will create more opportunities for local Canadian workers.
Trudeau also mentioned that further changes to the immigration system are expected in the coming months, which could have significant impacts on Canada’s labor market. He highlighted that in regions with high unemployment, where the unemployment rate is 6% or higher, employers will not be allowed to hire low-wage temporary foreign workers (TFWs), except in certain “food security sectors” like agriculture and food services.
Exceptions will be made for fish processing, construction, and healthcare sectors, where there are still severe staff shortages. Additionally, employers will now be restricted to hiring no more than 10% of their total workforce through the TFW program. Low-wage TFWs will also be limited to one-year contracts, down from the current two years.
These changes are considered crucial for Canada’s economy and financial management. Trudeau emphasized that the government is committed to bringing more people into Canada through permanent immigration. Following this announcement, some business leaders and trade organizations criticized Trudeau, arguing that reducing the number of temporary foreign workers could lead to labor shortages in various sectors.
Trudeau stated, “We are ensuring that the entire package is as sensible as possible for the needs of Canadians and our economy.” In the coming weeks, further immigration-related announcements are expected, potentially opening new pathways for people to come to Canada.
