Province Seeks Information about Temporary Foreign Workers

A consultation paper released today, May 27, asks for input about workplace conditions and protections for temporary foreign workers in Nova Scotia.

While many Nova Scotians may think of seasonal agricultural workers, the sector is much broader. It includes people working in medium- to highly-skilled positions in information technology, healthcare and hospitality, filling positions for which no Canadian workers are available.

"Temporary foreign workers are often alone in a new land and do not know or understand their rights," said Labour and Workforce Development Minister Marilyn More. "We need to gather better information about their challenges and how we can help."

For temporary foreign workers, barriers can arise from limited language and literacy skills, poor understanding of the culture and values of Canadian society, and limited access to resources that provide information about workers' rights and employers' responsibilities.

Some temporary foreign workers have told Department of Labour and Workforce Development and Office of Immigration staff that they were forced to pay high fees to recruiters before they could come to Nova Scotia. Others said that when they arrived, either the job they were hired for did not exist or their compensation was not as promised.

The discussion paper is available on the Labour and Workforce Development website and comments can be provided by e-mail, fax, or a written submission, or by phone.