The federal government is realigning the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to better meet labour market demands and support the economic recovery, says Human Resources Minister Diane Finley..
“Our government’s top priority is creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity,” she said in a statement issued as part of Ottawa’s Ecoomic Action Plan 2012.
“That’s why we are taking action to ensure that the Temporary Foreign Worker Program supports our economic recovery and effectively responds to local labour market demands. Our government is looking at ways to make sure businesses recruit from the domestic workforce before hiring temporary foreign workers, while also reducing the paper burden and speeding up the processing time for employers that have short-term skilled labour needs.”
Employers with a strong track record will receive an Accelerated-Labour Market Opinion (A-LMO) within 10 business days to hire temporary foreign workers in high-skill occupations, including the skilled trades. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program will become more responsive to skills and labour shortages, employers will have less red tape and temporary foreign workers will benefit from enhanced protections. In addition, the government will propose legislative amendments to further strengthen protections for temporary foreign workers and ensure that employers comply with program requirements.
Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said the change emanated from “consultations that were held with employers to discuss concerns with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, and seek ideas on improving it
“A fast and flexible economic immigration system combined with a strong Temporary Foreign Worker Program will sustain Canada’s economic growth and deliver prosperity for the future,” Kenney said.
Economic Action Plan 2012 also announced that the Harper Government will work in partnership with the provinces and territories, and other stakeholders, to further improve foreign credential recognition, so that internationally trained workers are able to find meaningful employment and, in turn, contribute to Canada’s economy and overall competitiveness.
Please click here to find more information about the Economic Action Plan 2012.
