By Sandi Krasowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Ontario Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Minister David Piccini has responded to a joint statement from Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Marcus Powlowski and Fort Frances Mayor Andrew Hallikas that they sent earlier this week about the decision that Ontario would not participate in relaxing federal rules regarding temporary foreign workers. They claimed it’s not in the best interest of the people of Northern Ontario.
Piccini says to address labour shortages, domestic workforce development must be prioritized rather than increasing the reliance on low-wage temporary foreign workers.
“We are putting Ontario workers first, making sure they have the opportunity to get their start and build their futures here in Ontario,” Piccini said.
Hallikas had pointed out that the needs of rural communities are not the same as those of large urban centres. He said that recent cuts to immigration have left smaller communities in Northern Ontario in a particularly difficult position.
“Over the past year, we have heard from numerous small businesses in Fort Frances, all of whom have indicated that without access to foreign workers, they would face serious challenges in maintaining operations,” Hallikas earlier said. “While some may dismiss the needs of businesses such as Tim Hortons and McDonald’s, in places like Fort Frances, these are major employers.”
He added that the labour shortage affects every aspect of daily life.
“Looking for a doctor? Do you have an elderly relative in need of chronic care? Good luck to you. We desperately need more doctors, nurses, personal support workers, and paramedics,” he said, adding that the shortage also has national implications.
“If we want to build more housing, rural sawmills in our region, many of which rely on temporary foreign workers, are essential. Major infrastructure projects require truckers to transport equipment and security personnel to support operations, both of which are in short supply.”
But Piccini sees it this way.
“The answer to filling in-demand jobs is not expanding access to low-wage temporary foreign workers — it is ensuring Ontario workers have the skills, experience and opportunities they need to succeed,” Piccini said.
“For many young people, jobs in sectors like food service and retail provide that critical first step into the workforce, helping them gain valuable experience, build confidence and begin rewarding careers. Our government will continue to invest in training, apprenticeships and pathways that connect Ontario workers with good-paying jobs while helping employers build the workforce they need for the future.”
Source: The Chronicle-Journal
