A Vancouver group representing care workers is calling on the Canadian government to fast-track permanent resident applications for its members.
Julie Diesta of the Vancouver Committee For Domestic Workers and Caregivers Rights (CDWCR) said the COVID-19 pandemic has made working conditions more challenging for care workers already struggling to survive.
The #Vancouver Committee For Domestic Workers and Caregivers Rights CDWCR is calling on #Canada to fast-track the Permanent Resident (#PR) applications of Care Workers & #LiveInCaregivers, especially during the pandemic. @TheresaOMNI shares this story at 11pm on @OMNITelevision pic.twitter.com/OJCuqlqPzV
— OMNI Filipino (@OMNIFilipino) October 30, 2020
In a written statement, Chief Public Officer of Health Dr. Theresa Tam said, “while the COVID-19 pandemic affects us all, the health impacts have been worse for…workers who provide essential services [and] racialized populations”. In the CDWCR’s eyes, any foreign caregivers should be deemed essential for their work with seniors and other vulnerable groups during the pandemic, and thanked for their hard work instead of being left in the lurch.
With minimum English language skills and post-secondary education just some of the many requirements added to Canada’s new admission program, many are worried all their dedication and hard work in the country so far won’t matter.
A single-tier immigration system that ensures full and permanent immigration #StatusforAll migrant and undocumented people is necessary and the only solution for both short-term and long-term recovery.@JustinTrudeau @marcomendicino https://t.co/7uRnBt8TxS
— Migrant Rights Network #StatusForAll (@MigrantRightsCA) October 30, 2020
According to immigration consultant Cristie Layne Tayde, the new program aims to have people learning while they wait for their Canadian visa to process, ensuring they qualify for permanent residency by the time they arrive. It’s an idea that’s great in theory, but Diesta said the plan abandons countless care workers who came over before the minimum requirements were mandatory.
Group actions will be taking place across the country Sunday Nov. 1 in support of the Migrant Rights Network, including rallies in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal.
