Government toughens up on rules around foreign workers
Posted Mar 8, 2012 1:47 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The Alberta Government says it’s strengthening the rules around employment agencies in hopes of protecting workers and their families.
Minister of Services Manmeet Bhullar says he’s well aware of people coming to Alberta because of the excellent opportunities, but some are intentionally misleading those looking for work.
“That’s why this government is acting by putting in strict rules that make employment agencies more accountable, strengthen protection for workers and aid in complaint investigations,” Bhullar says.
Amendments to the regulations will provide additional protection, making it illegal for businesses to mislead temporary foreign workers about their chance at becoming a Canadian citizen.
Agencies will be required to keep full records of their recruiting activities and register their agents with the provincial government.
Bhullar says for far too long a few have been able to bend the rules, taking advantage of those looking for work.
“A lot of people that were flying under the radar were not keeping records, they knew what they were doing was illegal,” he adds.
Changes take effect September 1st and violators will face up to 2 years in jail and fines of up to $100,000.
