Insights from the Post Graduate Work Permit Meeting - Ontario

June 29,2024

 Open Discussion- PGWP 2024

 

Members or NSN and workers called in a meeting to discuss concerns and suggestions regarding PGWP issues.

June 22,2024

 

 

It was held in Kaneff Park, Brampton near shoppers world. Introductory speach was by Laura Walton, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour in support of workers. She called Canadian discriminatory immigration policies racist and against the rights of workers.

Then various speakers talked and explained the demands again. New workers joined this time for protest. Police were there as they were informed prior.

Some photos are below and videos available of videos page or youtube

June 02, 2024

 

Following up on the discussion on May 18th, 2024, regarding challenges faced by recent graduates under the PGWP program, a rally was held on June 2nd at Chinguacousy Park, Brampton.

       The rally featured speakers from organizations like Naujawan Support Network, International Sikh Student Association, and Migrante Ontario. Kanwar Sierah and other volunteers also participated.

        The focus of the rally was to address the impact of shortcomings in the immigration system, particularly regarding paperwork delays, on migrant workers.

In a spirit of community, volunteers and small businesses provided food and drinks for attendees.

 

See images from the rally below.

Stay tuned! Videos from the rally will be published on YouTube soon


May 18, 2024

Today’s meeting focused on the Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program and brought together a diverse group of individuals to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities faced by recent graduates. The event was enriched by a detailed document prepared by Kanwar Sierah, which provided a foundation for meaningful dialogue and actionable insights. Adding @naujawansupportnetwork and @international_students_canada_ to the discussion as fellow speakers ensures their valuable perspectives are integrated. Collaboration with such organizations enriches the conversation and increases the likelihood of holistic solutions.

Urgent Call for Immediate Measures to Address Expiring Work Permits and Ongoing Provincial Nomination Issues under OINP

Key Issues Discussed:

  1. Processing Delays:

    • Issue: OINP application processing times have nearly doubled, causing distress for applicants.
    • Solution: Allocate more resources to expedite reviews and maintain service delivery standards.
  2. OINP Processing Priority:

    • Issue: Delays, combined with the lack of work permit extensions, leave applicants stranded.
    • Solution: Prioritize applications for those with expiring work permits and allow quick responses to concerns.
  3. Clear Communication:

    • Issue: Inadequate communication regarding application statuses.
    • Solution: Provide clear and accurate status updates and ensure decisions are made within two to three weeks.
  4. Draw Frequency:

    • Issue: Inconsistent draws and increased nomination quotas not aligned with demand.
    • Solution: Increase the frequency of draws, especially in stressed sectors like healthcare.
  5. Work Permit Extension for Potential Applicants:

    • Issue: Processing delays and lower draw frequency risk potential applicants’ eligibility.
    • Solution: Introduce special provisions for work permit extensions, similar to measures in Manitoba.
  6. Exploitation under LMIA-Based Work Permits:

    • Issue: International graduates face exploitation due to dependence on LMIA.
    • Solution: Request exemptions for PGWP holders under the International Mobility Program and introduce work permit extensions for high-demand occupations.
  7. OINP Policy Review:

    • Issue: Current policies overlook critical occupations and suffer from systemic inefficiencies.
    • Solution: Conduct a comprehensive policy review to address issues in Early Childhood Education, healthcare, and skilled trades.