The Alberta government has introduced Bill 26, the Immigration Oversight Act, aimed at protecting foreign workers and addressing labour market needs. The legislation would create a public registry of employers approved to hire foreign workers and require licensing for immigration consultants.
Immigration Minister Joseph Schow stated the bill targets employers who take advantage of vulnerable workers. “It is clear that in some instances, we have become over-reliant on temporary foreign workers,” Schow said. The current system favours hiring foreign nationals for some jobs, bypassing young Canadians.
However, the hospitality industry has expressed concerns. The Alberta Hospitality Association says restaurants in rural areas already face workforce shortages. “This does not really feel like reducing red tape,” said executive director Mona Pinder. Temporary foreign workers make up 3% of the foodservice workforce but are critical for skilled roles.
The legislation sets maximum fines of up to $1 million for individuals and $1.5 million for corporations. Violators could face up to one year in prison. If passed, implementation could begin as early as 2027.
Source: Global News
Photo: Global News
