Federal improvements to temporary foreign worker program a positive move

TORONTO, Aug. 20 /CNW/ - The Federal government demonstrated a serious commitment to protecting temporary foreign workers this week as it announced new rules to hold employers of temporary foreign workers, including live-in caregivers, accountable, drawing kudos from the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC).

"Temporary foreign workers come to Canada in a very vulnerable position because they are dependent upon their employer," said CSIC Chair Nigel Thomson. "These new rules will help ensure that employers play by the rules."

The rules will ensure job offers are more thoroughly evaluated to make sure they are genuine, implement a two-year probation period for employers who fail to meet their obligations to temporary foreign workers, and set a limit on how long temporary foreign workers can work in Canada before they return home. The rules will come into effect on April 1, 2011.

Although the Federal government is taking important steps to protect temporary foreign workers, much more needs to be done, especially on the provincial level.

"Manitoba has set the standard for protecting temporary foreign workers by requiring licensing for recruiters and employers. Only members of CSIC, members of a provincial or territorial bar and Quebec notaries are eligible to apply for this license," said Thomson. "The other provinces should follow suit to ensure the protection of these vulnerable individuals."

The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants is the professional regulatory body for Certified Canadian Immigration Consultants. Established in 2004 it currently has nearly 1,800 members. CSIC's mandate is to protect consumers of immigration consulting services. Consequently, it is responsible for ensuring the education, competency testing and the discipline of its members. CSIC also requires its members to carry errors and omissions insurance and to contribute to a compensation fund. The best way to find a CCIC is via CSIC's toll free referral line, 1-877-311-7926.

For further information: Nancy Tibbo, Communications Manager, [email protected], 416-945-6271, Toll free: 866-308-2742, ext. 2252