As reported by The Canadian Press on May 22, 2025, Conservative Member of Parliament Jamil Jivani has launched a petition calling for the complete abolition of the federal Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), with the exception of the agricultural sector.
In a video message on social media, Jivani blamed immigration for worsening conditions in Canada—highlighting a shortage of doctors, lack of hospital beds, difficulties in buying a home, and challenges in finding employment. He stated:
“Anyone looking for a family doctor can’t find one. Anyone trying to buy a house can’t. Looking for a job? Maybe there simply isn’t one.”
One of the motivations behind his initiative is the high unemployment rate among youth. According to Statistics Canada, in April 2025, youth unemployment (ages 15–24) reached 14%.
Government Response
Employment Minister Patty Hajdu responded with a hint of irony, noting that Jivani is not part of the Conservative Party’s official shadow cabinet. She said:
“Maybe he should ask to rejoin party briefings—then he would know that over the past year we’ve already scaled back the TFW program to better match actual labour market needs.”
She also emphasized:
- The program is vital for agriculture and tourism;
- It does not replace Canadian workers but complements the local workforce;
- The government continues consultations with businesses and unions.
Official Statistics
- In 2023, 183,590 work permits were issued under the TFWP (source: open.canada.ca).
- For 2025–2027, Canada plans to admit 82,000 temporary foreign workers annually (source: IRCC).
- Temporary foreign workers make up about 4.1% of Canada’s workforce (StatCan, 2021).
They are especially important in:
- Agriculture (17% of all workers in the sector);
- Hospitality and food services (10%);
- Manufacturing, logistics, and retail.
According to the CFIB
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) reports that:
- 89% of employers using the TFWP say it helps keep their business running;
- 70% say it helps retain current staff;
- 44% say it helps them hire more Canadians.
Experts warn that abruptly ending the program could lead to severe labour shortages in key sectors, reduced productivity, and rising prices. Given that youth unemployment hit 14% in April 2025, one must ask: are Canadians willing to take these jobs?
Economic Impact
A cancellation of the TFWP would deal a direct blow to Canada’s economy. These workers fill roles that Canadians are generally reluctant to take—especially in agriculture, meat processing, cleaning, warehousing, and hospitality.
Without them, farms may not harvest their crops, restaurants may not find cooks, and warehouses may halt logistics. Even if someone is unemployed or on benefits, it doesn’t guarantee they will accept such work.