The Philippine Migrant Society of Canada, or Pilipinong Migrante Sa Canada, has more than 100 women who are under the live-in caregiver program. Our objectives are to organize and mobilize overseas Filipinos on issues faced by Filipino migrants and the Filipino people; launch education campaigns aimed at raising the political consciousness of migrant Filipinos in Canada; provide assistance and services to Filipino migrant workers to improve their living and working conditions in Canada; and support the struggle of the Filipino people for social justice, genuine freedom, and democracy.
Key activities of our organization are organizing and education, which means PMSC raises awareness about issues of migrant Filipinos through orientation sessions, discussion and study groups, video showings, information workshops and public forums that highlight the common issues faced by migrant Filipinos in Canada, campaigns, networking and alliances wherein PMSC is actively seeking changes to programs and policies that lead to the abuse and exploitation of migrant workers. A key focus is Canada's live-in caregiver program.
Difficult working conditions faced by live-in caregivers can be traced to the fact that they are required to live and work in their employers' homes, which makes them vulnerable to forms of abuse other workers in Canada do not experience. Common problems are long working hours and unpaid overtime. Given that live-in caregivers work under temporary work permits, they are tied to their employers' names. Their ability to get out of difficult situations is severely constrained.
In launching its campaigns, PMSC works with organizations and networks that share its vision. We also do information and research wherein PMSC gathers information and conducts research in order to keep migrant Filipinos in Canada aware of their rights. It publishes a regular newsletter to share information, news, and stories of migrant workers. PMSC also conducts surveys and focus group discussions to learn more about the issues faced by migrant workers in Canada. Lastly, we also provide services wherein PMSC provides assistance to migrant Filipinos who seek help and justice for abuses committed against them. The organization also provides a range of services to its members including know-your-rights workshops, English as a second language classes, tax services, computer training, job placement, and CPR training. As part of building social networks among migrant Filipinos, PMSC also organizes social events for its members.
As well, we have ongoing campaigns currently, and I'm sure you guys, if anything, have heard of Bill 160 for recruitment agencies and the Juana Tejada law. That deals with removing the second medical examination once a live-in caregiver has finished the program and is applying for landed immigrant status.
Thank you.