Ontario is investigating claims involving foreign workers hired for Canadian Tire locations.
The issue centers on allegations of exploitative practices under the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program.
Investigations target an Alberta-based recruiter accused of overcharging workers and misrepresenting job terms.
Key Allegations
Some workers report paying over $10,000 to recruiters for TFWP applications.
Upon arrival, their job roles were downgraded, pay reduced, and working hours exceeded legal agreements. For instance, a worker expecting to earn $27/hour as a supervisor was relegated to labor tasks at $21/hour.
At least 13 workers at a Toronto-area Canadian Tire store owned by franchisee Ezhil Natarajan resigned or were terminated after reporting similar treatment.
Workers allege threats of dismissal when raising concerns about wage cuts or added duties unrelated to their contracts.
Both Ontario’s Ministry of Labour and the federal Employment and Social Development Canada are investigating.
Recruitment and Closed Work Permits
Recruiters and closed work permits—binding workers to specific employers—play significant roles in alleged abuses.
Critics argue this system leaves workers vulnerable, with some describing their experience as “like a cage.”
One worker reported severe stress due to exploitative conditions but lacked viable options to leave the job.
Canadian Tire’s Response
The company emphasized that franchise stores operate independently but expressed concern over the allegations.
Canadian Tire Corporation stated it was unaware of the situation and is conducting its own investigation.
