There was a huge impact of PSAC strike on the immigration system of Canada. Over 155,000 public servants are represented by the union known as the Public Service Alliance of Canada.
On April 19, PSAC began a strike which ended on May 1. In the history of Canada, it was one of the largest strikes as stated by PSAC. Services provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) were also impacted as there were disruptions to various public services in Canada throughout the strike.
What was the Reason for Strike?
More inclusivity in the workplace, a better work-life balance, seeking fair wages, and reduced layoffs through the creation of more jobs were some of the demands of PSAC. One of the major issues was that union workers wanted to work remotely.
90% of the workers wanted to work remotely even after the pandemic and PSAC also stated that public service workers were as effective remotely as they were in the office.
Effect of Strike on Canada immigration
Delays were expected throughout the strike in various areas as cautioned by IRCC, such as consular citizenship, passport services, processing applications, access to information act requests, contacting IRCC, grants and contributions services. This impact may change the procedure to Get PR in Canada from India.
Applying online on the website of IRCC for an extension of the stay period was possible even during the strike. Last Wednesday, 3,500 candidates were invited by IRCC to apply for permanent residence in the regularly scheduled Canada Express Entry draw despite the strike.
Disruptions to the collection of biometrics as well as disruptions to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) were also reported by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
It is mandatory to review Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) for employers who wish to hire temporary foreign workers, for which ESDC is responsible. Immigration to Canada from India may also be impacted due to the strike.
To fill urgent job vacancies in high-demand sectors as well as for seasonal workers, many Canadian Employers depend on the TFWP.
How the Strike Was Resolved?
PSAC instructed all members to return to work whenever their next shift is available.
The tentative agreement stated by PSAC which includes the:
- Higher wages to bridge the gap with inflation
- New and improved rules for work from home
- Other favourable provisions for its members
The strike hugely impacted IRCC. On the website of IRCC, it is mentioned that there may still be some service impacts over the next few days or weeks before the return of services to their full capacity. IRCC promised to update the page to tell people how the services have been impacted during the labour disruption.
You can always contact Top Immigration Consultants in India, if you are confused about how to apply for immigration in such situation.
