CRFA welcomes government clarity on EI plans

TORONTO, May 24, 2012 /CNW/ - The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association supports actions announced by the federal government today that will better connect workers to available jobs and will address Employment Insurance policies that limit the availability of workers.

The restaurant industry is already experiencing a serious shortage of workers in many parts of the country and demographics tell us that labour shortages — for both skilled and unskilled workers — will only worsen over time.

EI program objectives have to be aligned with a strategy to address current and impending labour shortages. The temporary foreign worker program is the only option for many businesses even when there are unemployed Canadians in their region within the skill range, who could do the job.

The government has now spelled out a fair and reasonable plan that provides clarity for both employees and employers about what is expected of them when they are looking for work.   

CRFA is one of Canada's largest business associations, with more than 30,000 members representing restaurants, bars, caterers, institutions and other foodservice providers. Canada's restaurant industry employs more than one million people in communities across the country. 

Mary Gazze, Communications Specialist at 1-800-387-5649 extension # 4226 or [email protected].