There are over 3,000 helping agencies and thousands of recruiters in Ontario. Over the last 2 years the government investigated these institutions and narrowed their focus on inspecting on Temporary helping Agencies and recruiters, the underground activity found that there were unscrupulous agencies making millions of dollars off the backs of employees by not paying the minimum wage, holiday pay and even, not paying over time. The recruiters were charging illegal hiring fees and at times, cutting on the recruits pay. In other instances, some workers would have their movements tracked, passports confiscated and sleep on straw beds. This is exploitation and unacceptable breach of professional ethics. All workers must be treated with respect and dignity.
However, it’s only fair to acknowledge Some Agencies that have been exhibiting outstanding performance by treating workers with the dignity and respect they deserve. Companies should embrace the philosophy of fostering a culture of love, compassion, and inclusivity as a strong foundation their values. These commendable Agencies have done a great job in helping employers filling the short term staffing needs so that industry can meet its mandate. These companies must be protected and the law breakers heavily punished.
The Vulnerable Groups exploited by the unscrupulous Agencies are the New Comers, immigrant workers and women.
The Objective of this government intervention is to protect both the vulnerable workers and honest employers. There is urgent need to keep workers safe and level the playing field for all the players in the market. Therefore, the government is increasing the number of workplace inspectors, doubling the contact lines and publicing hundreds of resources and guides to assist curb down those that violate the law.
To further enforce their position, the following are mandatory requirements with effect from 1st July 2024.
- A License
- Security Bond/Irrevocable standby letter of credit
- Listed on a Public Online Database
Non Compliance or employers that choose to use unlicensed Agencies will face the highest fines in the country and could face possible jail time. No worker should go for work in fear, the government will spare no expense to protect the safety of the workers
We need to Support the government to ensure that the companies that break the rules are heavily punished and the honest Agencies are protected. Every worker should go back home to their loved ones safe.
The need to end the exploitation of workers by unethical Agencies is NOW!!!!
Reference Video: Ontario to clamp down on THA Oct 18th 2021.