“I want the government to stop spending on foreign workers. Instead, give that money to other Canadians I like. The program is losing money. Cut it.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Employment
During debate on the temporary foreign worker (TFW) program, Conservatives criticized the Liberals for spending $1.6 billion over 5 years administering the program, and 'losing' $500 million. Conservatives said the program suppresses wages and kills entry-level jobs for Canadians. The Liberal minister defended the program, saying it ensures Canadians get jobs first, and that actual TFW use has declined recently.
“I want to keep spending on the TFW program. They have rules and inspectors. I don't want to cut it. Some businesses like it.”
“That program spent too much. It didn't get results. I want new people in charge who will spend less. Get rid of it.”
“I won't address the problems in our program. Instead I'll bring up something about you, even though it's not related. I want people to think you're inconsistent.”
“The government let businesses bring in more foreign workers. At the same time many Canadians, especially young people, lost their jobs. The temporary foreign worker program costs a lot and lost over $500 million. The government should explain to unemployed young people why we need more foreign workers now.”
“The member's numbers are wrong. Businesses don't use temporary foreign workers as much anymore. Those businesses now hire Canadians like they should. We made it harder to hire foreign workers in places with high unemployment. That's what we did even though some of the member's friends complained.”