Migrant Work: The True Cost of Labour

A tragic death on an Ontario farm has led to calls for more rights and safety requirements for migrant workers working under Temporary Foreign Worker permits.  

 The workers fill vital positions - primarily in agriculture, food and beverage manufacturing, and home care. But are migrant workers being treated humanely?    

An open letter from Jamaican farm workers to their country's Ministry of Labour describes the program as "systemic slavery" - listing poor housing, abusive bosses, and exposure to dangerous work conditions. In late September, the Canadian government released a statement on new measures to strengthen protections for the workers. But are they enough to protect vulnerable Temporary Foreign Workers?   

This week on Context: Migrant Work: The True Cost of Labour.