A new report by Community Development Halton reveals a significant increase in temporary foreign workers (TFW) in the region.
Citing data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Halton saw an influx of approximately 5,400 workers from January to October 2023, up from 2,100 in 2015.
The August 2024 report shows that about 44 per cent or 2,360 were located in Oakville, with Milton accounting for 25 per cent (1,340), Burlington 23 per cent (1,245) and Halton Hills 8 per cent (445).
Canada has two programs to admit temporary foreign labours: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for employers who can't find Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and the International Mobility Program (IMP), which allows hiring without an LMIA.
In Halton, workers from India make up the largest share under TFWP at 25 per cent, followed by Mexico at 22 per cent and the Philippines at 17 percent. For IMP, India leads with 40 per cent, with Ukraine at 9 per cent and both Iran and China at 5 per cent.
About 32 per cent of TWFP work permit holders in Halton were employed in harvesting, landscaping and natural resources roles, 25 per cent in service support positions such as food counter attendants and kitchen helpers, and 17 per cent as trades helpers and construction labourers.
The increase reflects a broader national trend, with Canada admitting 830,000 TFWs during the same period, up from 603,000 the previous year.
The report highlights the workers’ significant and multi-faceted contributions to the country’s economy, filling critical labour shortages in various industries — while noting their vulnerability to abuse and exploitation.
Critics have raised concerns that the programs contribute to higher unemployment among local workers and young people.
In response, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced new restrictions to reduce the number of temporary foreign workers.