WestJet backs down from TFW hiring plan
Calgary-based airline cites ‘economic uncertainty’ for reversal
WestJet says it no longer plans to use the temporary foreign worker (TFW) program to hire captains for its regional Encore airline, a decision welcomed by the union.
In an email to CBC News, a spokesperson for WestJet said the move was due to "economic uncertainty."
"We are referring to the heightened unpredictability most businesses are facing in the current economic climate, including but not limited to demand," the Calgary-based airline said. "WestJet, like many airlines, are constantly assessing the demand for travel, and making adjustments as required."
WestJet had previously said the program was among several avenues it was pursuing to address a labour shortage.
"We're very happy," said Capt. Tim Perry, president of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) Canada, which had criticized WestJet for pursuing the TFW program rather than improving working conditions to attract more domestic applicants.
"This is the outcome that we were looking for," he said.
Amid the final weeks of the federal election campaign, Perry said the union now hopes to push the various political parties for commitments to reform the TFW program, if elected.
In particular, Perry said he would like to see a stronger requirement that the government consult with relevant labour groups before giving an employer a green light to use the program.
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