Eby urges end to temporary foreign worker program
(Image courtesy of CBC)
Last week, BC Premier David Eby called for the end of the federal temporary foreign worker (TFW) program. This move was unexpected, considering the program has the backing of many progressive politicians in Canada. "We can't have an immigration system that fills up our homeless shelters and our food banks…that outpaces our ability to build schools and housing…[and] that results in high youth unemployment,” the Premier said.
TFW numbers double in three years
The number of legal TFW permit holders in BC has doubled since the end of 2021. It should be noted, however, that immigration targets are set by the federal government. But it does reflect the potential lack of coordination between the provincial and federal authorities, given Eby’s comments.
Number of TFW permit holders in Canada & BC (2019-2024)
Charges of abuse
Originally designed to help Canadian employers fill labour shortages when no local workers were available, the TFW program has since faced criticism for being misused by some employers to take advantage of vulnerable migrants seeking a foothold in Canada.
An article by Amnesty International found that many workers under the TFW program reported instances of working long hours, receiving less than agreed-upon pay, unsafe working conditions, lacking access to adequate housing and healthcare, and facing discrimination in the workplace. A UN investigator even said that the program was a “breeding ground for contemporary forms of slavery.”
TFW program is controversial
According to a recent Abacus Data survey, nearly half of Canadians support getting rid of the program, with the biggest difference being in age. Canadians aged 60 and over are more likely to oppose eliminating the TFW program, while younger Canadians are strongly in favour.
Position on getting rid of TFW Program, by age group
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has stated that he would scrap the program if elected Prime Minister, saying it is contributing to the youth unemployment rate. With Eby and Poilievre seemingly on the same side, time will tell if Mark Carney’s government will follow their lead.
