British Columbia Premier David Eby has urged the Canadian federal government to either abolish or fundamentally reform the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). The move comes amid concerns over high youth unemployment, housing shortages, and the strain on social services in the province. Premier Eby argues that the program may be exacerbating these issues.

Premier Eby highlighted concerns about the sale and misuse of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) and the lack of transparency in the program, questioning its overall integrity. 

Meanwhile, the federal government has already implemented some restrictions on access to the TFWP, limiting eligible industries. However, Premier Eby maintains that these measures are insufficient.

The provincial government emphasizes the need to prioritize job opportunities for young people and domestic workers.

Certain sectors, such as hospitality, agriculture, and food services, argue that while the TFWP may be small in scale, it is essential for addressing labour shortages. Particularly in rural and remote areas, local labour alone cannot meet demand, making the program a critical resource.

• Youth Employment: Statistical evidence is needed to determine whether abolishing the program would truly reduce reliance on foreign workers and increase job opportunities for young people.
• Preventing Abuse: How to curb misuse of LMIA and intermediary abuses.
• Regional Disparities: Urban and rural labour needs differ, and a uniform policy may not work for all industries.
• Impact on Social Services: The relationship between the program and pressure on housing, healthcare, and support services must be clarified.

From our perspective, a complete abolition of the TFWP could have a significant impact on certain industries and local economies. Realistic reforms should focus on increasing transparency, protecting workers, and ensuring fairness with domestic labour. For Japanese nationals seeking to work or study in Canada, changes to the TFWP or Co-op Work Permit directly affect their opportunities. Our team provides up-to-date guidance and support to help navigate these visa pathways effectively.

Canada faces a growing labour shortage, and the role of immigration and temporary worker programs will remain a central policy discussion. Whether the program will be abolished, reformed, or improved through transparency measures remains to be seen. It is increasingly important for job seekers and businesses to stay informed and adapt to evolving policies.

This article is based on reporting from CBC News and summarized by Visa JP Canada.