By admin (May 21, 2024)
The Immigration System of Canada Was Impacted By PSAC Strike
The immigration system of Canada was impacted by PSAC strike, Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) is a union that represents over 155,000 public servants.
PSAC began a strike on April 19, which ended on May 1. It is stated to be one of the largest strikes in the history of Canada by PSAC. There were disruptions to various public services in Canada throughout the strike, including the services provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The Cause of the Strike
A better work-life balance, more workplace inclusivity, reduced layoffs through the creation of more jobs, and seeking fair wages were some of the demands of PSAC. Union workers wanted to work remotely, which was one of the major issues. PSAC says public service workers were as effective remotely as they were in the office, and 90% of the workers wanted to work remotely even after the pandemic.
Impact of Strike on Canada immigration
IRCC cautioned that delays were expected throughout the strike in several areas, such as:
- Passport services
- Consular citizenship
- Access to Information Act Requests
- Grants and Contributions Services
- Processing Applications
- Contacting IRCC via phone, email, or social media
It was possible to apply online to IRCC to extend your stay even during the strike. IRCC invited additional 3,500 candidates to apply for permanent residence in the regularly scheduled Express Entry last Wednesday despite the strike.
Disruptions to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) as well as the collection of biometrics were also reported by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). People who wanted to be Temporary Workers in Canada were affected by this.
For employers who wish to hire temporary foreign workers, reviewing Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) is a mandatory requirement, for which ESDC is responsible. It is important to note that LMIA for Some Foreign Workers in Canada Can Be Processed in 10 Days.
Many Canadian Employers depend on the TFWP to fill urgent job vacancies in high-demand sectors as well as for seasonal workers.
How the Strike Was Resolved?
It was instructed by PSAC that all members should return to work as of 9 AM Eastern Time this morning, or whenever their next shift is available.
There is a tentative agreement as stated by PSAC which includes the –
- New and improved language relating to work from home
- Higher wages to close the gap with inflation
- Other favourable provisions for its members
The strike hugely impacted IRCC. It is mentioned on the website of IRCC that there may still be some service impacts over the next few days or weeks before the return of services to their full capacity. During the labour disruption, IRCC promised to update the page to tell people how the services have been impacted.Canada Immigration News will provide you latest updates related to the strike if there is any further modification on the behalf of IRCC.