NEWS RELEASE: Winnipeg Construction Association disappointed in reports of illegally hired foreign workers, urges industry members to adhere to legal hiring practices

WINNIPEG , April 10, 2025 – Earlier this week, various news outlets reported a representative for the construction firm overseeing the Templeton Heights project pleaded guilty to illegally hiring foreign workers, and subjecting them to poor conditions, low wages, missed payments and failed to provide them with Workplace Safety and Health protections. The Winnipeg Construction Association (WCA) was extremely disappointed to hear this news and condemns the practice of illegal hiring.

“It was more than disappointing to read that news, and hear what those workers were subjected to,” said Ron Hambley, WCA president. “These illegal practices undermine the integrity of our industry, compromise worker safety and violate Canadian immigration and labour laws.”

Reports state that as many as 14 foreign nationals were illegally employed on the site. The Canada Border Services Agency first started investigating the issue in August of 2023.

“This is obviously not representative of the construction industry in Manitoba. We urge all construction firms to rigorously adhere to legal hiring practices, ensuring that all employees possess the necessary documentation and authorization to work in Canada,” said Hambley. “Compliance with labour laws is not only a legal obligation but also essential for maintaining a fair and competitive industry.”

The incident should remind the industry not only of the importance of using legal hiring practices, but also maintaining safety standards on construction sites and paying fair, regulated wages.

“Ensuring the safety of and rights of all workers is paramount. Unauthorized employment can lead to exploitation and unsafe working conditions,” said Hambley. “WCA emphasizes the importance of a workforce that is both legal employed and adequately protected under Canadian labour laws.”

“Manitoba also has legislation that regulates wages in the construction sector, the Construction Industry Wages Act, which is in place to ensure construction workers are compensated fairly.  All ICI construction companies are required to abide by that legislation,” said Hambley.

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Media Contact: Darryl Harrison, Director, Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

darryl@winnipegconstruction.ca, 204-775-8664 ext: 2249

The Winnipeg Construction Association is an incorporated, not-for-profit trade association representing commercial contractors and suppliers throughout Manitoba. We currently have over 700 member firms, including manufacturers, suppliers, financial institutions, lawyers, insurance and bonding companies and brokers