The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) and Ontario Dump Truck Association (ODTA) were among labor and immigration groups that came together last week to oppose new immigration rules.

Changes to programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit will see many foreign students deported in 2024-2025 when their permits expire.

Sarbjit Kaur delivered remarks on behalf of CTOA at the event that supported foreign students who’ve conducted a sit-in since Aug. 30 in protest of the new rules.

“The CTOA is deeply concerned by the Government of Canada’s recent announcements on immigration changes, which stand to impact Canada’s trucking industry and, by extension, the national economy. Trucking is a critical pillar in maintaining the flow of goods across the country, and our industry relies heavily on a skilled, diverse workforce — a need that immigration has consistently helped meet,” Kaur said.

“As the industry faces ongoing labor shortages, with many seasoned drivers approaching retirement, the necessity of attracting and retaining new drivers is urgent. While all efforts are being made to recruit Canadians into the industry, immigration has long been a vital solution to this challenge, helping sustain the workforce needed to keep our country moving forward.”

Kaur said foreign workers worked through the Covid-19 pandemic, keeping Canada’s economy afloat.

“We must stand with these individuals who have already proven their work and commitment to this country,” she said.

Rising anti-immigrant sentiment

She also raised alarms about “rising anti-immigrant sentiment, which has led to discrimination and hardship for many drivers.”

“Members of our industry have increasingly faced racism driven by harmful rhetoric, which damages the unity and resilience that are core to Canada’s values,” she said.

Along with unions, community groups and other stakeholders, CTOA called for: an immediate extension to work permits set to expire in 2024-2025; a five-year post-graduate work permit for international students; an end to Labor Market Impact Assessment exploitation; and a fair and accessible pathway to permanent residency.

“These measures are not only a moral obligation but also a practical necessity for industries like trucking, which are already facing critical labor shortages,” Kaur said. “As Canada’s elderly population grows and labor demands intensify, international graduates and immigrant workers will play a vital role in sustaining our economy.”

Dump truck drivers aligned with CTOA

Her comments were supported by Bob Punia, president of the ODTA.

“Canada’s trucking industry relies on a skilled and diverse workforce to keep our economy moving, and international graduates have been an integral part of addressing our labor shortages,” Punia said in a release. “Policies that jeopardize their futures also threaten the stability of industries like ours. We urge the government to implement fair immigration reforms that recognize their contributions and support workers who are the backbone of Canada’s supply chain.”