Increase in violations of work permit regulations at companies employing temporary foreign workers.
The agricultural sector has historically been the largest user of temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in Canada. However, in recent years, other sectors such as hospitality, manufacturing, health, and information technology have also increasingly turned to this workforce to meet their staffing needs.
A surge in labor standard violations
The dramatic increase in the number of temporary foreign workers has helped fill gaps in the Canadian labor market. However, this situation has also led to a significant rise in violations of labor standards. According to data from the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST), the number of labor standard violations in Quebec rose from 14 in 2022 to 111 in 2023. This sharp increase is concerning and reflects a reality that requires heightened vigilance and adjustments in practices to better regulate and protect this vulnerable population.
Exploitation and working conditions
Temporary foreign workers, often holding closed work permits, are particularly vulnerable to abuse. These permits tie them to a single employer, limiting their ability to change jobs and making them dependent on their current employer. This creates a power imbalance where employers can exploit this situation to impose inadequate or non-compliant working conditions.
The violations observed include wages lower than promised, unmet working conditions, and tasks not mentioned in the initial job offers. Additionally, workers are sometimes assigned tasks for which they are not adequately trained, increasing the risk of workplace injuries. Indeed, the number of workplace injuries in Quebec has tripled since 2018, rising from 1,681 in 2019 to 4,391 in 2023.
Awareness and training
In response to this alarming situation, the Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés (CRHA) has launched a campaign to raise awareness among employers. The goal is to remind them of best practices when hiring temporary foreign workers, especially concerning training and workplace safety. Manon Poirier, CEO of the CRHA, emphasizes the importance of training workers upon their arrival to ensure they fully understand safety rules and their rights.
Towards better worker protection
The significant increase in the number of temporary foreign workers in Canada requires adjustments and heightened vigilance from authorities and employers. It is crucial to implement measures to protect this vulnerable population and ensure that their working conditions comply with established standards. The focus should be on adequate training and compliance with work permit conditions to prevent abuses and reduce the number of workplace injuries.
The evolution of the Canadian labor market must be accompanied by strengthening worker protection mechanisms to ensure a fair and safe working environment for all. Equinox ensures it is surrounded by compassionate and respectful companies towards temporary foreign workers. We offer quality service to ensure that workers’ fundamental rights are respected. We assist our clients and address their questions concerning the needs of TFWs.
