Resolution

WHEREAS Producers currently experience significant processing delays for applications made through the Agricultural Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program; 

WHEREAS Ongoing program changes and delays lead to uncertainty in the timely sourcing of Temporary Foreign Workers in Saskatchewan;

WHEREAS Current program streams are specific to commodity sectors, and often do not reflect the needs of Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector;  

WHEREAS A recent study by the Canadian Human Resource Council estimates that 41% of the agricultural workforce in Saskatchewan will retire by 2049, resulting in 12,000 job vacancies; 

BE IT RESOLVED That the Government of Canada develop a new agricultural worker stream under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program that:

• Recognizes the diversified nature of agricultural production in Saskatchewan;
• Is transparent, predictable and reduces redundant processes;  and
• Expedites the processing and approvals timeframes for farm operations.