The Canadian government has announced plans to scale back the country’s temporary foreign worker program, in a move aimed at protecting domestic employment opportunities.

According to the new policy, the number of temporary foreign workers allowed into Canada will be reduced from the current levels, though the exact percentage of the cut has not been specified.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over the impact of the temporary foreign worker program on the local labor market. Critics have argued that the program has led to the displacement of Canadian workers and suppressed wage growth in certain industries.

“We recognize the important role temporary foreign workers play in filling labor shortages, but we also have a responsibility to ensure Canadian workers are not being left behind,” said Immigration Minister Sean Fraser in a statement.

The government has faced mounting pressure from labor unions and advocacy groups to reform the temporary foreign worker program, which has expanded significantly in recent years to address nationwide labor shortages.

The upcoming reduction in temporary foreign worker intake is expected to affect a range of industries, including hospitality, agriculture, and the technology sector, which have traditionally relied heavily on overseas talent.

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The move is likely to be met with mixed reactions, with some employers warning of potential disruptions to their operations, while others welcome the government’s efforts to prioritize the employment of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

The details of the new program, including the timeline and extent of the reduction, are expected to be unveiled in the coming months, as the government consults with stakeholders and prepares for the implementation of the revised policy.