Ontario Construction News staff writer
In response to economic challenges caused by new U.S. tariffs and ongoing trade uncertainty, Local 97 of the Ironworkers is calling for an immediate end to Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program. The union wants to prioritize Canadian jobs and strengthen the domestic workforce in light of these pressures.
Doug Parton, Business Manager and FS/T of Local 97 Ironworkers, which represents over 2,300 workers, issued a statement urging the government to protect and support Canadian workers during these challenging economic times.
“With the looming impact of tariffs and trade disputes, it’s crucial that we prioritize Canadian workers,” said Parton. “The Temporary Foreign Worker Program was designed to fill gaps in the labor market, but in times like these, we must ensure that all available jobs are given to qualified Canadians before seeking foreign labor.”
Local 97 has long advocated for fair wages, strong labor protections, and job security for skilled tradespeople across British Columbia. However, they argue that the current structure of the TFW program undermines both worker safety and fairness, putting the well-being of both TFWs and Canadian workers at risk.
The union is calling for a temporary pause on the program in the construction industry to allow for a comprehensive review and to implement stronger standards for a safer and more sustainable workforce.
“Our federal government must act quickly to address the misuse of the program and invest in training and apprenticeship initiatives that prioritize Canadian workers,” Parton added. “We are ready to collaborate with policymakers to implement reforms that support our skilled trades sector, ensuring fair wages and safety for all workers.”
