Human Resources and Social Development Canada/Service Canada (HRSDC/SC) is implementing the Expedited Labour Market Opinion (E-LMO) Pilot Project in hiring foreign workers. The pilot project began in British Columbia and Alberta on September 24, 2007.

The pilot project represents a significant shift in how HRSDC/SC will assess employer requests for Labour Market Opinions in 33 specific occupations. Employers will first be assessed to determine their eligibility to participate in the E-LMO process.

Eligible employers who agree to meet program requirements will receive LMOs requested within three to five working days. This is a significant reduction from the current processing times which can now take up to five months.

To become eligible to participate in the pilot project, employers will be required to confirm in writing that:

1. They have made reasonable efforts to hire or train Canadian citizens or permanent residents;

2. There is not a labour dispute in progress at the employer’s workplace;

3. The working conditions, including the wages to be paid, meet the minimum acceptable working conditions for the occupation.