Majority of Canadians support hiring foreign workers
A new poll reveals the favorability of Canadians toward working migrants.
A new sociological survey has confirmed Canadians' positive attitudes towards attracting foreign professionals to Canada. Sociologists asked respondents how important the newcomers are to the Canadian economy, whether they support employers bringing them to Canada to fill jobs, and whether they should be given opportunities to become Canadian citizens or permanent residents. And here's what was found.
Importance of newcomers to the economy
An overwhelming majority of Canadians believe that temporary foreign workers are important (48%) or somewhat important (34%) to the Canadian economy. Older Canadians (55 and older) are more likely to think migrant workers are important (56%) than younger Canadians (38%).
Employer support
79% of respondents support employers inviting temporary foreign workers to Canada to fill jobs for which they cannot find Canadians. Support is strongest in the Atlantic region (61% full support and 25% partial support) and Quebec (57% full support and 32% partial support), and the greatest resistance was shown by residents of the Prairie provinces (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta) and Ontario.
Issuance of residence permits and citizenship
More than two-thirds of Canadians support working foreigners staying in Canada and wanting to become citizens. 32% of respondents supported such intentions fully, while another 37% were partially supportive. 14% of respondents were categorically opposed.
Older Canadians (74% of people over age 55) were more likely to support or partially support granting permanent residence and citizenship to temporary foreign workers than younger Canadians (62% of people aged 18-34).
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