The government’s efforts to address labor shortages with immigrant workers in Quebec are facing criticism from the Conseil du patronat (CPQ).
Criticism has been mounting against the CAQ government for discontinuing the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), an expedited pathway to work in the province. The CPQ joined the chorus of dissent, voicing its concerns on Wednesday.
The CPQ is pointing out that the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), introduced as a replacement for the PEQ, has been deemed ineffective. CPQ President Michelle Llambias Meunier expressed dissatisfaction, highlighting the program’s unpredictability and the uncertainty faced by applicants regarding their work permit status.
During a press conference at the Parliamentary Press Gallery in Quebec City, CPQ Vice-President Daye Diallo shared a troubling anecdote about a company facing the imminent departure of 25 workers from its production line if the situation remains unchanged.
In response to these challenges, the CPQ has presented five requests to the political parties in the National Assembly. These include reinstating the PEQ, a proposal that Minister of Immigration Jean-François Roberge has already rejected. Other suggested solutions involve enhancing fundamental skills like literacy and numeracy, refining workplace training initiatives, attracting and retaining experienced workers over 55, and facilitating the integration of marginalized groups like Indigenous people, youth, individuals with disabilities, and those with justice system involvement into the workforce.
