Canadians from various political backgrounds are expressing notable concerns about the country’s temporary foreign worker program, as revealed by a recent survey.
According to Shachi Kurl, the president of the Angus Reid Institute, 55% of Canadians feel that the 50-year-old program is admitting an excessive number of applicants. This surge is seen as contributing to the strain on the housing market and creating obstacles for young individuals seeking summer employment opportunities.
Kurl highlighted the question many are pondering: why are foreign workers being prioritized for jobs while local youth struggle to secure employment opportunities?
Despite the criticisms, the survey also indicated that a majority of respondents believe that the workers are wrongly being blamed for economic issues that are beyond their control.
Kurl emphasized the need for empathy towards temporary foreign workers, noting that they often face unjust accusations and are vulnerable to exploitation. There have been instances where employers have taken advantage of these workers by paying them below minimum wage and even resorting to threats regarding their immigration status.
The ongoing criticism of the program is not a new phenomenon, as highlighted by a UN report in 2024 that likened Canada’s program to “modern slavery.”
The poll revealed a widespread sentiment across all regions of Canada that the program is admitting too many applicants, with individuals in Alberta expressing this sentiment most strongly.
Furthermore, the survey indicated that 69% of employers utilizing the program believe that it has proved beneficial for their businesses.