CBSA Identifies Four Undocumented Workers at Calgary Event Centre Site
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has identified four undocumented workers at the construction site of Calgary’s event centre. This announcement followed an immigration check conducted by CBSA investigators on Wednesday.
Details of the Investigation
CBSA, alongside the Calgary Police Service, conducted this operation at the project site located at the intersection of 12th Avenue S.E. and Stampede Trail. The investigation was part of adherence to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
- Four workers were found to be without legal status.
- They must report to the CBSA office within the week.
- The investigation was triggered by a tip received by CBSA.
Statement from CBSA
A CBSA spokesperson stated, “Ensuring that those who are inadmissible leave the country is crucial to the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.” Such workplace investigations are rare, averaging five to six annually.
Recent Developments in Immigration Enforcement
Raj Sharma, an immigration lawyer, highlighted that CBSA has enhanced its capabilities with the hiring of an additional 1,000 inland enforcement officers. This uptick in enforcement actions is evident in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver, though it is becoming more common in Calgary too.
Response from Local Authorities
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek expressed concern over the operation’s management, stating the need for protections against worker exploitation. She has had discussions with the Prime Minister’s office and Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree.
Concerns from Union Representatives
The Building Trades of Alberta (BTA), representing local trade unions, remarked that the issue of trafficking undocumented workers is prevalent in Alberta. Rob Calver, strategic engagement director at BTA, noted that subcontractors often resort to cash payments, exacerbating the problem.
- Calver highlighted a decline in market share for skilled trade workers due to low-bid contracts.
- These contracts lead to cost-cutting measures that may involve the use of undocumented workers.
City Regulations and Compliance Mandates
The City of Calgary mandates that all prime contractors adhere to the Alberta Labour Relations Code and city regulations. Compliance checks are part of their collaborative efforts with the construction industry to ensure legal adherence.
CANA, the primary contractor for the event centre project, has not provided comments regarding the occurrence. Concerns about the treatment of undocumented workers are a growing issue within the local community and industry.
