Media Advisory - List of 'accelerated' TFW approvals reveals widespread abuse of program

Alberta Federation of Labour to call for inquiry in light of growing evidence of fraud

EDMONTON, April 8, 2013 /CNW/ - A list of fast-tracked temporary foreign worker applications shows that scandals at Royal Bank and HD Mining are just the tip of the iceberg.

The document, which the Alberta Federation of Labour will release at a press conference on Tuesday, April 9, lists all approved TFW applications in the first eight months of the new Accelerated Labour Market Opinion (ALMO) process. Thousands of ALMO guest worker permits - which are supposed to be reserved for highly-skilled employment - have been granted to fast-food restaurants, convenience stores and gas stations.

"You look down this list, and it's McDonalds, Tim Hortons, A&W, Subway sandwiches. Are we supposed to believe that these are 'high-skill' employment opportunities?" Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan said. "These permits are being used to replace Canadian workers with people who will have reduced bargaining power."

What:	Alberta Federation of Labour to release list of Temporary Foreign Worker program "high-skilled" employer list
Where:	Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe Hotel River Valley Room, Lobby Level 10111 Bellamy Hill Rd NW, Edmonton
When:	1:30 PM, Tuesday, April 9
Who:	Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan

SOURCE: Alberta Federation of Labour

MEDIA CONTACT:
Olav Rokne, AFL Communications Director at 780-289-6528 (cell) or via email [email protected].