Maple News reports that the Business Council of Canada has issued a strong call to action ahead of the federal budget, urging policymakers to prioritize skilled immigration and workforce development as key pillars of Canada’s long-term economic growth and recovery.
In an open letter addressed to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on March 1, Business Council President and CEO Goldy Hyder outlined seven pre-budget recommendations. A central theme in the council’s proposals is the need to attract and retain global talent by modernizing Canada’s immigration system.
“We need to cultivate and enhance our human capital by developing a more agile and adaptable workforce,” Hyder wrote. He emphasized the importance of helping young Canadians build fulfilling careers while also bolstering immigration pathways to position Canada as a preferred destination for highly skilled international professionals.
Among the key recommendations, Hyder highlighted the urgent need to remove systemic barriers that prevent immigrants from fully integrating into the Canadian labour market. Foreign credential recognition continues to be a major hurdle, with many highly qualified newcomers unable to work in their fields—often forced into menial or unrelated jobs despite holding advanced degrees or certifications.
The letter also called attention to the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on low-wage, immigrant, and racialized workers. Hyder advocated for targeted retraining programs to support displaced workers, ensuring they can transition into in-demand fields. He urged the government to collaborate with businesses, provinces, and territories to launch a comprehensive, results-oriented skills development strategy.
Models such as Palette Skills—which offers tech and sales upskilling for jobseekers—and the Business and Higher Education Roundtable were cited as leading examples of business-driven training initiatives. These programs aim to match talent with current market needs, especially in high-growth sectors like IT, cybersecurity, and healthcare.
While Canada has not tabled a federal budget since March 2019, consultations resumed earlier this year. Minister Freeland emphasized that economic recovery will focus on “jobs, jobs, jobs, and growth,” aligning with the Business Council’s call for policies that directly address labour and talent challenges.
In support of labour market integration, the federal government has already committed $15 million in 2021 and 2022 to better connect skilled newcomers with jobs in key industries. In addition, Ottawa pledged $72.1 million towards modernizing Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) outdated processing systems, moving towards a more digital and responsive infrastructure.
As Maple News continues to report, stakeholders across the private sector increasingly view immigration reform not merely as a social policy, but as a strategic tool for Canada’s post-pandemic economic rebound.