Post by : Meena Ariff

Canadian coffee giant Tim Hortons has been actively pushing the federal government for an increase in the temporary foreign worker (TFW) hiring limit amid continued labour shortages affecting the food service industry.

According to internal documents and lobbying records, Tim Hortons has proposed raising the TFW cap from 20% to 30%. They argue that the pandemic has significantly impacted the sector, resulting in persistent vacancies. After a temporary raise in TFW limits during the peak of COVID-19 in 2021, the cap was reverted to 10% in 2024.

Meetings with various federal MPs and officials from different departments have marked the company's lobbying efforts. Tim Hortons has also called for expedited visa renewals for foreign workers, stressing the importance of “flexibility in TFW hiring,” especially in rural and smaller communities facing severe labour shortages.

Company representatives have highlighted that over 95% of their workforce is sourced locally, but they noted an increase in harassment towards employees whose appearances do not fit a typical Canadian profile. Additionally, they have invested in training initiatives and industry collaborations aimed at addressing the approximately 70,000 open positions in the restaurant sector.

While some parliamentarians have shown support for easing TFW restrictions, others have voiced concerns that the program displaces job opportunities for young Canadians. Conservative immigration critic Michelle Rempel Garner criticized the TFW scheme for taking away “first job opportunities” for local youth and called for its termination. Similarly, NDP interim leader Don Davies has advocated for a “complete overhaul” of the system, suggesting that companies should first enhance wages and working conditions to attract Canadian talent.

The federal government has yet to indicate any policy changes while maintaining that the TFW program undergoes regular assessment to meet economic and labour demands. Tim Hortons also clarified that, although a 2024 proposal hinted at a permanent foreign worker program, they are no longer pursuing that option.

As Canada faces ongoing labour shortages in the restaurant sector, discussions around the temporary foreign worker program continue to intensify, balancing business needs with safeguarding local job prospects.

#Business News