CMC supports the extension to the Agri-Food Pilot, aiding access to permanent residence for workers and their families
Ottawa ON- Today, The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, announced the extension of the Agri-Food Pilot, which helps address labour challenges in the Canadian agri-food sector. The pilot, launched in 2020, provides a pathway to permanent residence for experienced workers in the agriculture and agri-food industries, and will now run until May 14, 2025.
“We are extremely pleased that the Agri-Food Pilot was extended to support meat processors fill job vacancies on a permanent basis.” said Christopher White, President and CEO, Canadian Meat Council. “There is a critical labour shortage impacting Canada’s meat processing industry, with vacancy rates of 20% or more. Today’s announced measures help safeguard Canada’s food supply”.”
Agriculture and agri-food employers have increased their ongoing advertising efforts with recruitment fairs, retention practices, augmented referral incentives and more. Despite increased recruitment and competitive wages, the challenges related to filling job vacancies in meat processing remain critical as Canada’s labour gap widens
In addition to the extension of the Agri-Food Pilot to 2025, annual occupational caps and the limit on how many candidates can apply for a specific occupation under the pilot, have been removed. The changes overall will increase opportunities for more eligible candidates to apply and provide wider support to applicants and their family members in becoming permanent residents
CMC supports the efforts being made by the Government of Canada to meet the labour market needs of employers in agri-food industries. The ability to retain skilled workers is critical to the success of Canadian food processors, and these new initiatives will aid with filling in gaps of Canada’s food supply system.
About CMC
The Canadian Meat Council represents federally licensed meat packers and meat processors as well as suppliers of goods and services to the meat industry. As an industry association, CMC provides advocacy on behalf of its members and works to secure and improve Canada’s global meat competitiveness. CMC also promotes a balanced diet which includes high-quality and nutritious Canadian meat. CMC provides services to its members with four key priorities: Regulatory Compliance, International Trade, Public and Stakeholder Engagement and Member Services.
For more information
Jennica Klassen
(613) 793-3032
