Canada’s immigration system is once again at the center of national discussion. On May 23, 2025, Conservative MP Jamil Jivani launched a petition demanding an end to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), with the exception of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program. The move has sparked mixed reactions across the country.
While supporters believe this change could protect Canadian jobs and ease pressure on social services, critics warn that ending the TFWP entirely could harm key industries already facing labour shortages. What does this mean for the future of Canadian immigration and employment?
Why Is the TFWP Under Fire?
According to MP Jivani, the TFWP plays a direct role in rising youth unemployment and reduced access to essential services. The youth jobless rate has jumped to 14%, and the number of young people unable to find work in cities like Toronto has increased by over 50% in just two years.
The petition claims that:
- Employers are using the TFWP to fill jobs with lower-paid foreign workers.
- Canadian youth are being pushed out of entry-level roles in retail and food service.
- The program adds pressure to housing, healthcare, and public infrastructure.
Government’s Response: Reform Over Removal
In response to growing criticism, the federal government has proposed a cap of 82,000 annual TFWP admissions from 2025 to 2027. Officials defend the program, saying it remains crucial for certain sectors where Canadian workers are simply not available.
Key industries benefiting from the TFWP include:
- Hospitality and food services
- Caregiving and healthcare support roles
- Skilled trades and construction
- Agricultural processing (separate from the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program)
The government acknowledges the concerns but insists that the program is closely monitored and includes Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) to ensure employers are only hiring foreign workers when no Canadian is available.
What’s the Real Impact of the TFWP?
Supporters of the program highlight that:
- It fills critical short-term labour gaps.
- It supports business continuity in regions with few local workers.
- It’s a temporary solution, not a long-term immigration pathway.
However, critics note a shift in how the program is being used. For example, in Ontario, Tim Hortons increased its use of foreign workers from 58 in 2019 to 714 in 2023, sparking concerns over the loss of youth-friendly jobs.
A Call for Balance: Reforming the Program, Not Ending It
While Jivani’s petition has gained attention, many experts argue that a total shutdown of the TFWP could backfire. Instead, policy reform might offer a better solution by introducing stricter controls, wage protections, and industry-specific limits to ensure fairness.
This discussion also raises broader questions:
- Should employers rely more on training Canadians rather than seeking international workers?
- Can immigration policy be refined to protect both economic growth and Canadian job seekers?
Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program Faces a Turning Point
As the petition to end Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program gains visibility, it has reignited complex debates around immigration, employment, and economic priorities. Whether the program needs a full repeal or just significant reform, one thing is clear: Canada must find the right balance between supporting its workforce and meeting the demands of a changing labour market.
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