Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling for the elimination of the temporary foreign worker program, arguing that it has led to an oversupply of inexpensive labor and hindered job opportunities for Canadian youth. Poilievre expressed concerns about young Canadians being displaced by low-wage foreign workers from less developed nations, accusing the Liberal government of favoring foreign workers over domestic youth.
While advocating for the termination of the temporary foreign worker program, the Conservatives propose establishing a distinct program specifically addressing the scarcity of agricultural labor. Canada currently operates the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) for farm workers from Mexico and select Caribbean countries.
Poilievre emphasized that the issue lies with the exploitation of foreign workers by the government and corporate entities, not the workers themselves. Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner highlighted the impact on Canadian youth, noting a shift away from traditional entry-level jobs that provided valuable skills and opportunities for advancement.
The Liberals disputed Poilievre’s claim that they exceeded the TFW permit cap, stating that only 33,722 temporary foreign workers entered Canada in the first half of the year. They clarified that the total permits issued included extensions for workers already in the country, resulting in fewer new arrivals compared to the previous year.
Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the role of the temporary foreign worker program but emphasized the need to review its effectiveness and integration within the broader immigration system. Business leaders have expressed mixed views on the program, with some advocating for its continuation with adjustments to meet labor demands.
Statistics Canada reported a halt in population growth in the initial months of the year, attributing the decline partly to adjustments in immigration levels by the federal government. The data indicated that immigration accounted for all population growth during the quarter, with a net increase of 20,107 individuals. This slowdown marked one of the lowest growth rates in Canada since 1946.
The ongoing debate surrounding the temporary foreign worker program reflects broader concerns about labor market dynamics, immigration policies, and their implications on the Canadian workforce and population demographics.