Tim Hortons, a prominent Canadian coffee chain, has been advocating for an increase in the cap on temporary foreign workers (TFWs) that its franchisees can employ, according to recent findings by CBC News. This push has been ongoing for over a year, involving written requests and lobbying meetings with government officials and Members of Parliament. The requests come amidst challenges faced by the food service industry due to the pandemic, resulting in severe labor shortages.
In a letter addressed to Immigration Minister Marc Miller in May 2024, the company urged for an adjustment in the cap from 20% to 30% for TFWs. This letter, which was disclosed following an access to information request, highlighted the impact of the pandemic on the food service sector. Although Ottawa had temporarily raised the cap to 30% during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis in 2021, by late 2024, the federal government reduced the cap to 10%.
Throughout the year, Tim Hortons continued its advocacy efforts, holding multiple lobbying meetings with various Members of Parliament from different political parties. The company emphasized the need for more TFWs to address labor shortages, especially in rural and smaller communities. Tim Hortons stressed the importance of providing flexibility in hiring TFWs, particularly for those already contributing to the workforce.
The lobbying activities also extended to discussions on expedited visa renewals for foreign workers already employed in Canada. The company sought support for allowing TFWs to stay longer in the country through extended work permits or clearer pathways to permanent residency. Tim Hortons collaborated with industry groups to address the significant job vacancies in the restaurant sector, including investing in training programs to fill these positions.
Despite the company’s efforts, there have been criticisms from some political quarters. Conservative MPs have raised concerns about the impact of the TFW program on entry-level job opportunities for Canadian youth. They argue that the program has led to the displacement of local workers in favor of low-wage labor imported through the program. The Conservatives have called for the abolition of the TFW program, advocating for a focus on skills training and job opportunities for Canadian citizens.
Similarly, the NDP has emphasized the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the TFW program, suggesting that companies like Tim Hortons should prioritize improving wages and working conditions to attract local talent. The party believes that market signals should guide employment practices rather than relying heavily on temporary foreign workers.
In response to these viewpoints, Tim Hortons reiterated its commitment to supporting its workforce, highlighting the challenges posed by labor shortages and the importance of finding sustainable solutions to address staffing needs in the industry. The company emphasized the significance of creating opportunities for TFWs to contribute positively to the Canadian workforce while recognizing the diverse challenges faced by the sector.