The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) calls on the Federal Government to speed up the process for Ukrainian refugees to get work permits.

Ukrainian nationals have been welcomed under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. However, SARM says that even with the assistance of this program, newcomers still face many challenges around securing employment upon arrival.

SARM pointed to examples of medical caveats around vaccination status, the potential of up to fourteen days in quarantine, and additional medical exams.

To navigate these conditions, Ukrainians who have not had medical exams before arrival may be asked to undergo additional tests by a physician approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which there is a lack of in Saskatchewan.

According to the federal government’s website, only nine federally approved Panel Physicians in Saskatchewan can provide this service. Six in Saskatoon and one in Regina, Prince Albert, and North Battleford.

SARM President Ray Orb said that the federal government process is intended to expedite, but in reality, it can cause delays at a time when every day, or week, is a crucial one.

“Help wanted signs are everywhere right now, so it is a shame to think that we have newcomers seeking employment, unable to enter the workforce because of bureaucratic red tape that may be unnecessary,” said Orb. “This has dire financial consequences for those seeking refuge, and it’s not good for employers either. I routinely hear from Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers looking for skilled labour to join their operations. Ukraine is known to have strong agricultural ties, and Saskatchewan is poised to welcome those workers that can bring that knowledge and experience here.”

“Every additional step creates a barrier to entering the workforce during a time when Saskatchewan could benefit from the expertise and knowledge of these workers, particularly in the agriculture sector,” Orb added.