Quebec introduces new regulations that protect temporary foreign workers

The Quebec immigration system has been welcoming a lot of positive changes lately following a serious backlash, and the trend seems to continue. The Government of Quebec has now introduced new regulations that would provide protection to temporary foreign workers. These rules are meant to safeguard workers from getting dragged into the questionable practices of the recruiters, employers, and personnel placement agencies.

These new measures state that the agencies for personnel placement and recruitment who want to work with temporary foreign workers will have to obtain a permit if they want to operate properly. Agencies that are already offering such services will now have to go the extra mile and get certified. They have to submit their applications to the CNESST, the provincial commission that is in charge of labor standards in the province. The permit has to be submitted in the period from January 1 to and February 14 next year if they want to continue their activities under the law.

The CNESST will manage this system and issue the requisite permits to agencies. They will also keep a close eye on the actions of recruiters and employers to ensure that nobody strays from the mentioned regulations. The Minister of Labour, Employment and Social Solidarity, Jean Boulet, announced at a press conference that the new rules will make sure that all temporary foreign workers and agency workers have access to the fair and equitable working conditions they are entitled to. They should have a positive work experience under the new laws.

It is not a one-time rule because agencies will have their licenses revoked or temporarily suspended if they fail to follow the new rules. Agencies will also have to come with up a $15,000 security deposit that can be used to compensate workers in the future if such a situation arises.