Anecdotal stories about labour shortages are not supported by the evidence about unemployment and the use of temporary foreign workers. Between 2008 and 2012, the largest growth in the number of temporary foreign workers has taken place in those parts of the country having the highest unemployment. In fact, although we all hear from time to time of employers claiming a labour shortage and the need to bring in temporary foreign workers, the empirical evidence shows quite clearly that temporary foreign workers are increasing in parts of the country where unemployment is highest. As a labour union representing workers, our experience is that if you treat workers fairly, they will come.
On May 21st, 2013. See this statement in context.