A Quebec company and its directors have been charged with hiring unauthorized foreign workers over a two-year span, following an investigation by the Canada Border Services Agency.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced that charges have been laid against Camping Havana Resort and its directors, Ariane and Dominic Perrier, along with an employee, Oscar Fuentes Labrada. This legal action comes after an extensive investigation initiated in December 2022, which was prompted by information received from the public regarding the company's hiring practices. The CBSA alleges that the company violated the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act by employing 21 foreign workers who were unauthorized to work in Canada.
The investigation culminated in a search of the company's premises on September 4, 2024, during which investigators gathered substantial evidence to support the charges. The offenses reportedly took place over a timeline extending from May 2022 to April 2024, indicating a prolonged disregard for immigration laws. The case highlights the importance of compliance with labor regulations within Canada and raises concerns about workplace standards and the exploitation of vulnerable migrant workers.
With the charges laid against the directors for violating immigration laws, it opens up discussions on the responsibility of employers in ensuring the legality of their workforce. The ramifications of this case could be significant, not just for the involved individuals but also for other businesses operating in Quebec and across Canada, as it may lead to increased scrutiny and enforcement of labor laws, particularly concerning the hiring of foreign workers.
