The British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) has partnered with the Government of Mexico to launch an innovative labour mobility pilot project, which will place 100 Mexican workers in accommodations across B.C. This ground-breaking initiative not only addresses the shortage of skilled workers in B.C. but also ensures the safe and streamlined mobility of Mexican workers, providing them with invaluable opportunities to enhance their skills and training.
“The BCHA is strongly committed to delivering innovative and results-oriented solutions to support our industry’s workforce needs and following the overwhelming success of partnerships with the Consulate of Barbados and the Consulate of El Salvador, we enthusiastically celebrate another mutually beneficial partnership that will introduce a safe employment pathway for international workers,” shared Ingrid Jarrett, president & CEO of the BCHA. “We have a longstanding appreciation for Mexico, its people, and its rich culture. Above all, we hold immense respect and appreciation for the Mexican workforce, whose contributions have historically played a vital role in our province’s thriving hospitality sector.”
Mexico’s National Employment Service of the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, in coordination with the Ministry of Tourism of Mexico, will lead recruitment efforts. BCHA’s workforce strategist, Alison Langford will provide support by identifying hiring employers and placements. Individual contracts will be formalized between each employer and their selected candidate, with workers receiving on the job training and adequate housing. All employers will be compliant in completing a Certificate of Registration under the Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act and must be members in good standing with the BCHA and Service Canada.
“The last three years have been incredibly challenging for people in the tourism and hospitality industry,” said Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport Lana Popham. “Like many industries that are still recovering, hoteliers are facing workforce challenges, increasing costs, supply chain shortages, and other operational complexities. The pilot project between the B.C. Hotel Association and Mexico will provide opportunities for hospitality employers and foreign workers alike by filling labour shortages and extending tourism opportunities to employees keen to expand their careers.”
