Sunday, January 31, 2021

Seasonal workers get travel exemption

Temporary foreign workers will be able to come to Canada without meeting new restrictions announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

They will be able to land at any airport, not just the four announced in Trudeau’s restrictions, and they won’t need to endure three days in airport hotels awaiting COVID-19 test results.

They will have to quarantine for 14 days after arrival in Canada, as has been the case since the first international travel restrictions began last spring, but the quarantines can be served on farm.

On the other hand, the Ontario Ministry of Labour has announced it will be keeping much closer watch on farms employing temporary foreign workers.

Sources report that federal officials quelled any fears the restrictions would prevent foreign workers from arriving in Canada.

Transport Canada is believed to be working with the major airlines to ensure flights carrying temporary foreign workers can land at any Canadian airport capable of welcoming them, rather than in one of the four designated cities.

According to sources, federal officials are also trying to find ways of ensuring the arrival of workers despite flights being suspended. Chartered flights are being considered — and indeed, already used often to bring in seasonal workers; but the federal government is also working to ensure foreign airlines carrying foreign workers can land in Canada.