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Vancouver, BC (May 16, 2023): In a major effort to combat the pressing workforce shortage in British Columbia's hospitality industry, 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."
Chief Officer for North America Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Roberto Velasco, and Consul General, Berenice Diaz Ceballos, met with BCHA President and CEO, Ingrid Jarrett, BCHA Workforce Strategist, Alison Langford, and the Hon. Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport on May 16th, at the Consulate of Mexico for the official announcement of this pilot project.
“The last three years have been incredibly challenging for people in the tourism and hospitality industry,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “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.”
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, while BCHA’s Workforce Strategist, Alison Langford will 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.
"Together, we celebrate this partnership between the Consulate of Mexico and the B.C. Hotel Association that will empower Mexican workers through valuable international training opportunities” said Consul General, Berenice Diaz Ceballos. “The activities Mexican workers will engage in during their contract period at diverse workplaces will not only enhance their skills and qualifications but also strengthen their employability in Mexico. By gaining higher technical knowledge, language proficiency, and enriched work profiles, they will be equipped with the tools to seize new opportunities upon their return. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to fostering professional growth, labour mobility and creating a brighter future for Mexican workers."
Following the initial workforce placements, a six-month review will be conducted to ensure compliance of all conditions. Further information regarding job openings and requirements through Mexico will be available shortly at the employment website (www,empleo.gob.mx), in the Work Abroad Section.
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