The Canada Truck Operators Association (CTOA) is deeply concerned by the Government of Canada’s recent announcements on immigration changes, which stand to impact Canada’s trucking industry and, by extension, the national economy. Trucking is a critical pillar in maintaining the flow of goods across the country, and our industry relies heavily on a skilled, diverse workforce—a need that immigration has consistently helped meet.
As the industry faces ongoing labour shortages, with many seasoned drivers approaching retirement, the necessity of attracting and retaining new drivers is urgent. While all efforts are being made to recruit Canadians into the industry, immigration has long been a vital solution to this challenge, helping sustain the workforce needed to keep our country moving forward.
We are particularly concerned for the immigrants currently in Canada, who have dedicated years to working, training, and contributing within the trucking industry. Due to recent changes to programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), many of these individuals, who worked tirelessly during the pandemic and stepped up in times of national need, now face an uncertain future.
Additionally, the CTOA is troubled by rising anti-immigrant sentiment, which has led to discrimination and hardship for many drivers. Members of our industry have increasingly faced racism driven by harmful rhetoric, which damages the unity and resilience that are core to Canada’s values.
We urge all stakeholders to come together to ensure that reforms to immigration policy are implemented thoughtfully, without unintended harm to the trucking industry or its workforce. With a collaborative approach, we can continue supporting the individuals who serve as the backbone of our industry and maintain a strong, inclusive economy.
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