Canada’s Union Calls For Permanent Immigration Option for Migrant Workers

United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW), a leading union in Canada for migrants and temporary foreign workers, says the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP) from the federal government should be changed into a system that allows migrant workers to apply for permanent residence Canada.

It is one of the many recommendations that have been put forward by UFCW Canada as the Temporary Foreign Workers Program is being reviewed by the parliamentary committee. UFCW Canada sent out its submission on Wednesday to the HUMA for a hearing that is to take place in Ottawa.

The submission is being labeled as “A new vision for sustainable immigration system” asks the federal government to give permission to migrant workers to apply for Canada PR, particularly after they arrive in Canada. This suggestion has been made with the view to reduce the exploitation of temporary workers.

Once the changes take place, temporary workers will have equal access to employment insurance benefits and Canada pension plan. This change will also work for temporary workers who are tied up with an abusive employer. These workers will have legal access to speak and fight for their rights and they will be able to work freely without any fear.

Local Unions of UFCW Canada represents thousands of temporary foreign workers. These people do not have permanent residence of Canada under the Provincial Nominee Program. There is a collective agreement between major employers and UFCW Canada to provide proactive support to foreign workers who arrive in the country.

One of the members of UFCW Canada came to this country from El Salvador back in 2005. The member expressed that without the support of the employee working together and of the union the experience would have been quite different. The main benefit provided here is that of the support mechanism. All the workers should be given the chance to settle in the country and be able to apply for Canada PR.

These temporary workers have contributed considerably for the development of the country. It is because of this reason they should have equal rights to live and work here.