Quebec and its relationship with temporary foreign workers (TFWs): A different approach in Canada
A recent Angus Reid survey has revealed that Quebec shows a greater receptivity towards temporary foreign workers compared to other provinces, highlighting their positive contribution both economically and socially. While other regions exhibit skepticism, Quebec seems to value the fundamental role these workers play in its development. In the coming months, it will be crucial to observe how new federal and provincial measures influence the integration of these workers and the benefits they bring to the province.
Greater acceptance in Quebec
According to the survey, 44% of Quebecers believe that the number of temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in the country is insufficient or barely sufficient. This figure contrasts sharply with Ontario (23%) and Alberta (19%), where a higher proportion of the population feels there are already too many temporary foreign workers. Additionally, only 42% of Quebecers think there are too many TFWs, a much lower figure compared to Ontario (61%) or Alberta (65%).
This difference in perception may be partly due to Quebec’s economic context, where the unemployment rate is low and the demand for workers is high. Quebecers seem to be more aware of the need for these workers to fill jobs that locals are unwilling to take.
Economic and social impact
64% of Quebecers believe that TFWs are beneficial to the Canadian economy, a much more positive view than that of Ontarians (35%) and Alberta residents (30%). Furthermore, 80% of the Quebec population agrees that these workers are filling jobs that Canadians do not want, compared to 54% in Ontario.
Daye Diallo, Vice President of Policies at the Quebec Employers’ Council, points out that the immigration debate has been deeper and more constant in Quebec than in other regions of Canada. This has allowed Quebecers to be more familiar with the presence of TFWs and their impact on key sectors such as industry, health, and education.
Reform of the temporary foreign worker program
Despite the generally positive perception, support for providing a pathway to citizenship for TFWs remains low across the country, with only 36% approval, both in Quebec and the rest of Canada.
In terms of reforms, the Quebec government has implemented recent changes that directly affect TFWs. For example, a six-month moratorium has been announced in Montreal for low-wage jobs in certain sectors. At the federal level, new regulations, which will come into effect on September 26, include a freeze on TFW hiring in urban areas with an unemployment rate above 6%, as well as a reduction in the maximum percentage of these workers in a company’s workforce from 20% to 10%.
The Angus Reid survey shows that Quebec has a more positive perception of temporary foreign workers compared to other Canadian provinces. The combination of high demand for labor and a more in-depth debate on immigration has created a more receptive environment in Quebec. However, recent reforms underscore the need to adjust the program to balance opportunities for local workers and TFWs.
