OTTAWA – Conservative Member of Parliament Jamil Jivani has initiated a petition calling for the termination of the temporary foreign worker (TFW) program. The petition argues that the TFW program significantly contributes to what it describes as an unsustainable level of immigration. Jivani claims that the program takes job opportunities away from Canadians and leads to wage suppression.
In a video shared on social media regarding the petition, Jivani emphasizes the negative impacts of immigration on various critical sectors, including healthcare, housing, and the job market. He states, “There’s a pretty clear consensus, even across people with different political views, that immigration levels are just unsustainably high.” He highlights the directly observable consequences of high immigration levels, citing instances of packed hospitals, a shortage of family doctors, limited housing availability, and challenges in job searching.
The Ontario MP expresses concern that discussions surrounding immigration have become fraught, stating, “It’s reached a point in Parliament where you can’t have a sensible conversation about the issue.” Jivani specifies that his petition deliberately excludes temporary workers employed in the agricultural sector, suggesting that these seasonal workers should be classified under a distinct program.
One of the driving factors behind Jivani's petition is the unemployment rate among youth. Statistics Canada reported that the unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 to 24 reached 14 percent in April, as outlined in their May jobs report. Jivani argues that addressing youth unemployment is vital and that the TFW program detracts from job opportunities available to younger Canadians.
Last year, the federal government revealed intentions to decrease the number of temporary foreign workers permitted entry into Canada. This decision includes halting the processing of TFW applications in metropolitan areas where unemployment exceeds six percent. Moving forward, the government’s immigration levels plan aims to allow 82,000 workers annually under the TFW program for the years 2025 to 2027.
In an emailed response to Jivani, Employment Minister Patty Hajdu playfully criticized him for not being appointed as one of the Conservative caucus critics in the House of Commons, stating, “I know MP Jivani wasn’t included in Andrew Scheer’s shadow cabinet.” She inferred that had Jivani been briefed by his party, he would be aware of the recent significant reductions to the TFW program aimed at aligning with local labor market needs.
Minister Hajdu also emphasized that the government is engaged in consultations with labor and industry groups concerning future adjustments to the TFW program. She asserted that the program is essential for the agricultural sector and tourism industry and reassured that it does not replace Canadian talent.
It appears that Jivani is operating independently with his petition, as he does not hold a formal critic position within the Conservative party structure. Alberta Members of Parliament Michelle Rempel Garner and Garnett Genuis occupy the specific roles of immigration and employment critics, respectively. The Conservative party has yet to provide an immediate comment regarding Jivani’s petition.
