December 03,  2006

Dear fellow Canadians!

I am a Canadian, one of many who feels cheated and lied to by the Canadian
system, so I had a very limited budget to spend on a holiday. I spend most
of my money on taxes, fees, and living expenses so enjoying actual traveling
through this scenic country is mostly reserved for foreign tourists or
wealthier Canadians.

First my family who were educated business immigrants from Holland/The
Netherlands were cleverly fleeced and ripped of by a well designed industry
which awaits immigrants to separate them from their lifetime earnings.
My parents had owned a Hotel in The Netherlands and bought two licensed
Travel agencies as an investment and pre-requisite to get their Canadian
citizenship.

I think that Canada is a type of bureaucratic, fake democratic dictatorship.
The average people are wonderful and the nature and scenery are spectacular
but the ruling class, supported by their throngs of lawyers and media
friends are tyrants and slave drivers.

WARNING > potential new immigrants! Canada and its henchmen are scouring
the Earth for new slaves with empty promises and armed with propaganda
materials of wide open spaces and alluring fake possibilities, because I and
quite a few friends are Canadian slaves who have escaped.

1) Oh you need Canadian experience!
2) Oh there are more jobs in Eastern Canada!
3) Oh move to the west coast, the tourism industry and Film industry is
booming there.
4) If you just had a Canadian education!
5) Maybe you should get a Masters Degree or PHD!
6) Go back to school and learn computer IT!
7) Learn an extra language, that will help. (Most of my friends speak 4 or 5
languages near fluently)
8) Oh you're sick and need medical insurance, sorry but there is a
mandatory 6 months residency requirement for this province.
9) Why don't you join a job search club? Oh you already have 4 times well
this one is different!
10) You should be willing to take any job, and then you'll find
opportunity!
11) Well, it just takes a little time and everything will work out!
12) Perhaps you have been looking in the wrong industry or sector.
13) Maybe you need some help with your resume skills and employment search
tactics.

Sincerely Hugo Stam
Soon to be EX Canadian
hugostam2005 @ hotmail.com

December 02,  2006

Is a funny Country Canada, they think of them selves as a liberal and left oriented society, the left means Union jobs with benefits and pensions, they are the Aristocracy of the Country, you don' t need brains for this jobs, just contacts or family members, this is the aspiration of any ordinary Canadian, any thing else will be less than the real thing.

So they know that new immigrants are far away from getting this jobs, this has created an unproductive bureaucracy with good wages, miserable workers (they claim more sick days a year than working days) and a lazy attitude supported by the Canadian charter of rights, as an immigrant I support Harper more than the hypocrites of the NDP or the pickpockets of the Liberals. For the ones who want and need to remain in the Country, continue to open new web pages, continue to write and get involved in politics (it pays better than a janitorial job).

I have kids with a Canadian and have done the wrong choice of having them in Canada, so if you are in love with a Canadian better have the kids somewhere else in your original country, your Canadian family will not help you in any thing at all, they will rob you as the same of the rest of the country. Many years of harm and misery waiting for my kids to be 14 and take them forever out of Canada. I'm European and I sympathize with all you immigrants.

Diane Zimmerman
dianezimmerman911 @ yahoo.ca

November 30,  2006

You overlook one very important fact and that is that we real Canadians do not want you immigrant foreigners here !
We have been too generous , let too many of you third world invaders here and you have proven one thing and that is that you are a bunch of whiney losers.

Go away !!! leave us alone.

We want European immigrants we do not want our culture or lifestyle smudged with yours. Most of you people we only ever saw in National Geographic, now you live across the street.

If your culture is so great, immerse yourself in it, in your country not ours. We were doing fine till the Liberals opened the floodgates.

Get out !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ps. by the way, no one ever gave anyone anything here in Canada. Everyone who has come here for the past 200 years worked their tails off. The recent immigrants have an outrageous sense of entitlement.

Canada was 95 % white until the mid 1980's, and still is, outside of a couple of the major cities. You forget that , excuse us if this invasion is all foreign to us

Brian Jackson
sempron141 @ yahoo.ca

November 28,  2006

November 26,  2006

November 22,  2006

Dear friends,

I am happy that that websites like notCanada.com is helping the point-based immigrants in exposing the canadian system impinging on dishonest and farcical claims on the international arena. When we are in our mother countries, the picture painted by the canadian embassies and immigration lawyers is entirely plethora of lies and lame promises.

I was an insurance professional in India. After coming to Canada, I started upgrading in the field of Insurance and now I am doing Fellow of Chartered Insurance Professional which is a degree tagged with Vice Presidents Of Canadian Insurance Companies only. I mean to say this degree decorates the name plates of highly placed Insurance Professional in Canada. But I am applying for entry level jobs in Canadian insurance marker but I have not received even a single offer so far. The are expecting Minimum One year Canadian Experience which I can get only when I will given an opportunity to work in this field. No body is ready to give this opportunity because insurance field is the domain of white community only. I am doing odd jobs for about three years and consistently upgrading hoping that I will break the myth one day that brown people are inferior to whites. We are not stupid but we have been compelled to fight their mental bankruptcy of feeling of 'superiority of white skins' which will drain this community one day.

Pankaj Sharma
pankajshaarma @ yahoo.ca

November 18,  2006

Dear Sir/Madam:

I am a native born Canadian and a retired police officer. You have forgotten one of the most important negatives about Canada, which should be added as #9 reason not to immigrate.

Since there are no consequences to crime in Canada, it has one of highest crime rates, including violent crime, in the western industrialized world. Check United Nations crime statistics to verify this. The Canadian government traditionally promotes Canada as a safe and peaceful society in order to attract foreign investment, but the truth is that Canada is a dangerous place to live.

Brian Cox
brianncox @ shaw.ca

November 15,  2006

Some interesting thoughts from website of William Gairdner, author, teacher, Olympic decathlon athlete and businessman (and Canadian):

"Canada in 1945 had a mere 10-15 billion dollars of federal debt accumulated in the 78 years since Confederation. Today, Canada carries over 550 billion dollars in federal debt alone, which is considered “structural” because it cannot be paid off without ruining the country.

Canada also carries many billions of dollars more in debt in the form of “unfunded liabilities” such as the Canada Pension Plan, which is a debt instead of a resource because no actual pension fund exists. It is a Ponzi, or a Pay-Go scheme in which younger workers pay for the retiring old, every day.

As a consequence of all this, almost a third of every tax dollar raised in Canada is used to pay debt. In effect, we are all asking future generations - citizens not yet born - to pay for our current consumption, as we are paying for much of the consumption by our predecessors. This is an immoral obligation laid upon all future Canadian children from which they cannot escape."

ciaocanada @ hotmail.com

November 08,  2006

To whom it may concern,

I heard about your website from watching W5 on CTV. I could not forget this
website and I will tell you the reason why.

I am a Canadian citizen born in Kitchener and raised in Mississauga. I was
born to two parents who immigrated to Canada, my mother came to Canada in
1969 and my father in 1971, the Trudeau era. I read everything in your
website and I strongly agree to everything in your website. However I think
that justifying the cold weather as a reason not to come to Canada is not
rational, man cannot control mother nature. All other reasons such as job
discrimination I agree to 100%!

Although I am a Canadian citizen born and raised, I will admit that I love
Canada for its heritage, diversity, natural landscape, and civil liberties.
Unfortunately I as a Canadian citizen has faced the same dilemma as several
immigrants of colour. Yes I have received educational opportunities and I am
also licensed to work as a teacher, but the reason why I was faced with the
same dilemma as immigrants is simply because I am a black person.

If Martin Luther King was still alive today, he would have written a speech
to shame down Canada. Unfortunately he is dead, his wife also passed away, and
we have nobody to really stand up in tactful radical action for immigrants
who are ostracized and disenfranchised.

It is because of this kind of disenfranchisement why I as an educated black
professional teacher decided to pack my bags and start my teaching career in
Korea, because Korea has opened the doors of opportunity for me and I owe a
lot to Korea because of that.

I don't want to tarnish my country, I wear the poppy to remember the
sacrifice that our Canadian soldiers made for freedom, but unfortunately
Canadians are tarnishing our freedom to perpetrate job discrimination
against people of colour who are either immigrants or black men like me who
are Canadian citizens.

Now that I am working in Korea, I am living very comfortably in a nice
apartment (bigger than the one I had in Windsor, ON) and I do not have to
pay rent as a foreign worker. My utility bills are far more cheaper than
what I would pay in Canada, and the public transportation system is more
superior.

Now and then as I meet the people of Korea, I will tell them, even their
young people that if they learn English very well, if they want to leave
Korea and live somewhere else, my recommendations for them would not be to
live in Canada, neither the US. I would recommend for Koreans to live in the
UK, Australia, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, South Africa, or any country
where English is spoken and they could get opportunities there for high
paying jobs. If Koreans ever wanted to come to Canada, it should have been
30-50 years ago, but not now! Canada's immigration system is in a complete
mess! Shame on Canada, shame on Stephen Harper, I am so embarrassed to be
Canadian because of this mess!

Sheldon Walters
formerly in Windsor, now in Korea
sheldonw_7 @ hotmail.com

November 04,  2006

I wanted to write in, in support of your website.

I would like to sincerely apologize for the experience that more recent immigrants (past 15 years) are having in Canada. As a third generation Canadian I am deeply troubled by the failure of my nation to provide the same opportunities to new immigrants that were provided to my family. I do want to provide a little context and address the top eight reasons for not immigrating to Canada.

I truly believe that it is a symptom of not government in general but rather the Liberal Party of Canada. We have just recently barely removed them from power and have a minority government under the Conservative party. The Liberals were the most corrupt government in Canadian history under former Prime Minister Jean Chretien. They truly are a political party of lies who stand for absolutely nothing.

I wish I could write in and dispute the claims on your web-site but the fact is that I can not. I have friends who are immigrants to Canada and they talk of their struggle. My wife and I are third generation Canadians and our families have been in Canada over a hundred years but even we are leaving Canada. She has her PhD in Neuroscience and I myself have 2 degrees. We are leaving Canada for New York where she has been recently offered a position and I myself will have a mid-level position with a firm in the financial district in New York. The fact is that I will be making over twice as much even in a mid-level position in New York, while my wife's opportunities are even higher.

We can not wait any longer for tax policies to improve but perhaps others can. The Liberal Party of Canada is the greatest threat to the livelihoods of all Canadians new and old in my view. They are the greatest threat to the nation as a whole. They have created division throughout the nation as it serves their interests. East vs West, French vs English, Natives vs non-natives. Even if you do not agree with the Conservative party then vote for the NDP party, at least these two parties stand for something that is clear. The Liberal will flip flop with whatever they believe will get them elected, they will say anything and then lie further in a deluded attempt to maintain their power rather then act for the good of the country. New immigrants have gotten a very clear taste of these lies. Remember the Liberals have been running Canada for the last 15 years. Top eight reasons:

8. Discriminatory and Dishonest Immigration System.
Again this is the Liberal Party of Canada, they have formed the immigration policy and the idiocy of it is clear. Canada needs blue-collar workers, Canada does not need any immigrant professionals. There are many blue-collar labor level jobs, so if you are a new immigrant who is a welder or willing to do labor so that your children will have access to a better life. Canada still may be ok, but if you are a professional there is no opportunity, even my wife and I are leaving for far better jobs and far lower taxes in the United States as we are both professionals in our fields.

7. Out Of Control Cost Of Living.
Your are right, the price of real estate is exploding in Canada and if you do not own a home now, then entering the market at a working class salary is slipping out of reach. I do want to mention though that if you are willing to move to small cities throughout Canada the cost of living relative to your wage may still be ok. I admit that wages in Canada are largely out of step with other countries, this is tied into high taxes though.

6. Health Care Crisis.
Right with this one but this problem is very difficult. I don't know if any political party can solve it. The true culprit here is the same enemy Tommy Douglas had when he fought to create public health care in the first place. The real enemy is the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. This body purposely maintains a low supply of doctors, artificially high education standards (keeping out immigrant doctors from entering the system) so that doctors can continue to have high salaries Trouble with taking on doctor's though is that when they walk off work, people die and that is political suicide.

5. Very High Taxes.
Your right, but again this is the Liberal Party of Canada, I have hope that it will fall under the Conservatives, they have already lowered the GST a little. NDP may not change this but it is up to you how important this is and how you want to vote. Just don't vote for the Liberals.

4. Money Hungry Government.
Again Liberal party, when you are taking money and literally handing it in envelopes to your Québec elite what else is there to say...

3. No Culture.
Your right but again it did not use to be like this. Before Trudeau and if you talk to any Canadian that was here before 1970 there was a very clear Canadian Culture. Think of Australia. We knew who we were, we were a British colony with a French minority. Now no one knows what Canada is because the idea of our British history was so offensive to Liberal Elitists that it had to be destroyed and replaced with another Liberal idea "multi-culturalism" which is essentially a code word for no culture at all for Canada.

2. Worst Weather.
Yes, Canada has the worst weather, that is why we skate around and play hockey. : )

1. No Jobs.
There are jobs but they are not professional jobs. I am not going to argue, my wife and I are leaving because we have professional jobs but they pay poorly after we are done paying twice as much taxes as we would in the U.S.

The Liberal Party though has mesmerized the Greater Toronto Area / Ontario who now believe that the source of Canada is the very party who did such incredible damage to it. I have hope and we may move back here when we retire but we certainly plan to make our livings in the United States hopefully in 30 years Canada will be fixed but it will never be fixed under the Liberals. Vote in the NDP or the Conservatives, anything but the Liberals.

Harvey Delaine
New York, USA
hsdelaine @ hotmail.com

October 31,  2006

Canada is desperate for bodies.

Some years ago there was a study done on Canada’s declining population. Later it turned into a joke, that being ‘by the year 2150, there will be only one person left in Canada, it would be a woman living in the Northwest Territories’

But kidding aside, the trend they studied was indeed happening. For a few reasons I will outline below.

First, on average, white Canadians do not have as many kids as people in other countries. Perhaps it is culture or the high costs associated with raising a child in Canada.

Second, people are not as interested in immigrating to Canada, like several decades ago. The rest of the world has caught up, while Canada has remained dormant.

Finally, born and raised Canadians are leaving the country for better jobs and opportunities elsewhere. Many (most) never return.

So Canada is left in a situation where they desperately need people to come and pay taxes to support their economy. So that is why the government so frantically tries to lure and recruit people from overseas.

Canadian immigration officials, Canadian immigration lawyers hold seminars in big five star hotels all over the world. They do their very best to lie and attract the richest foreigners to come to Canada.

After these foreigners arrive in Canada however, the reality is a different world.

Erik Manso
formerly of Ontario (now in California)
emanso @ yahoo.com

October 25,  2006

Wow,

I have never read so many comments from clueless people in my Life...

Why are you under the illusion that Canada owes you something???? What you
should of researched or had the common sense to fathom, is that Canada could
give you the opportunity for a better life...

The wording here is precise...COULD....Not should or will!!! Could...

What you make of that opportunity is up to you. But if it doesn't work
out...Hold your hands up and be honest...Say(for whatever reason) you need
to justify to yourself..i.e Government conspiracy, racism, unlucky, etc and
move the Hell out..

Making room for more deserving, grateful people....

The rest of us Canadians live in 12 bed roomed castles, drive Mercedes and
are chauffer driven to work....

Why should you get that right away when we have toiled our whole lives in
this country and you are newbie's????

If you are Lucky enough to move here have realistic expectations and assume
you will not be given opportunities till you have earned them.

Foreign qualifications, although recognized by Immigration will not be
recognised by any one else..Look into bridging qualifications or resitting
the same qualification in Canada.

You have lived here for all of 2 minutes...what makes you so special????
Be realistic, learn the language, pay your dues, acclimatize and most
importantly...

If you don't like it or it hasn't worked out for you...Leave..Canada owes
you NOTHING....

Mark Edge
mountieuk @ hotmail.com

October 24,  2006

Your comments posted on notcanada.com don't seem to make any sense at all.
They clearly lack valid arguments and by the nature of your thoughts you're
also misinformed. However, I felt compelled to respond for several reasons.
First, if you always write in that fashion and claim you have a bachelor's
degree, I would really doubt about your attendance to any well-established
Canadian University. (By the way, it is properly written "bachelor's", when
writing in first person. Not bachelor) e.g. I have a bachelor's degree!
Additionally, you should get the "facts" and inform yourself better before
making any claims referring to the so-called "Canadian standards". Do your
homework.

If you're to speak about "STANDARDS" you'll notice (by reading and
researching) that many countries have equal, if not higher "STANDARDS"
compared to Canada's in many areas such as education, science, technical
research, engineering, medicine, and even arts.
Not to mention that the great majority of scientific and technological
advances are imported into Canada, and not developed in Canada or by
Canadians as you may think.

The fact of the matter is that expressions and views such as "Standards",
"Go back to your country", and "Moving to Canada is a step forward and a
privilege, not a right" are being used by people like you, when no other
intelligent arguments can be set forward, and makes the rest of us
(Canadians) who believe in an open and fair society (such as Pierre Elliot
Trudeau did) look like idiots.

Patrick Kavanagh
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
djcoma @ msn.com

October 21,  2006

Hello "Not Canada":

Well your name says it all doesn't it? If you don't like Canada, why move here? Move to the US if that's what you prefer. Or better yet, move back to your home country. There's a reason why doctors or engineers or lawyers can't find work here right away, it's called "STANDARDS". Obviously, Canadian standards for professions is going to be different than foreign countries, we are a developed nation. I work in a pharmacy company, and the comment I hear most is how different Canadian pharmacy is different from back home, from foreign pharmacists, and they can't wait to do their upgrading to become licensed here. In the meantime, they go to community college and become pharmacy technicians. They actually know that they have to work for what they want to have in their new country, they don't just expect everything.

They know that coming to Canada is a PRIVILEGE, not a RIGHT. Even if immigrants have to work as a taxi driver or in a factory, guess what? In Canada you have freedom, quality of life, no human rights abuses and a rich country that will look after those down on their luck. Quite a difference from many countries in Africa and Asia where human rights abuses and lack of freedom are a daily fact of life. Moving to Canada is a step up in itself! This is a country where if you work hard, you will be rewarded. Immigrants with your attitude don't want to work hard. Foreign experience or education by itself doesn't count? No it doesn't, Canada and Asia and Africa are totally different places in the world, so obviously you will need Canadian experience and education and upgrading.

Yet there are people who expect to be able to come to Canada and practice their profession right away? I'd be scared to be treated by a foreign doctor or pharmacist without them being trained to Canadian standards. When foreign professionals are trained to Canadian standards, they are able to practice. For those too lazy to upgrade, then yes they will get the jobs that Canadians don't want. Why should I as a Canadian professional be displaced by someone who just came here when I've been here all my life and paid taxes all my life? I haven't gotten a free ride, and I'll be damned if someone not even born here gets one over me. Work for what you have like Canadians do! Be honoured that you're finally in such an exceptional country! I thank God I was born here vs. somewhere in Asia or Africa every day!

I have a Bachelor degree from Canada, and while it took a while for even me to become established in my career, now I will have no problem. It's called working your way up, and while professional immigrants seem to want the world handed to them on a silver platter at the expense of actual Canadians, it doesn't happen that way. The day I am displaced from my professional job by someone from another country with no Canadian experience or equivalency, when I worked my ass off for my experience, is the day I move to the US.

I am not against immigrants in any way. Born here, my parents and grandparents were immigrants. We are a country built on immigrants. But just like the generations of Europeans who built this country and had to work their way up for what they have, you're damn right that current immigrants from Asia and Africa will have to do the same. Work for what you have the way Canadians do!

Thanks!

Christine S.
leadlady @ hotmail.com

October 20,  2006

Hi everybody,

I am glad, that I came across this site and share a few thoughts with you. I came to Canada, because of the slow economy in Germany. And the canadian consulates are doing a great job selling and promoting Canada.

Canada is only looking for low cost worker that can fill in the positions, that no canadian would take. I am very happy about the fact, that I have kept my family back in Germany and not moved over here. After being confronted with the real world, I can only say, CANADA is not worth it. I will not stay. I thought we had a drug problem back in Europe.

I will not support this system with my skills and hard work and all I say is: Don't listen to any immigration agent.

Hope, that you all make the right choice

Harald - Alberta
haraldengling @ aol.com

October 13,  2006

Hi there,

I have seen your website and I really admire your effort to help people immigrating to Canada to avoid a real waste o time, money, and effort.

But, I think that your website has no use if you do not include it in google and yahoo searchs, for example, when someone searchs for "immigration canada" it would be great if your website appeared in the search list because that way people could notice it and read it.

I personally would not have had immigrated to Canada had I seen your website before, in my country the canadian and quebec consulates are really "selling" the idea that Canada is a great place to live and work and that is the reason why so many people go there, waste their time and money just to end up going back.

This situation helps canadian local people live at a luxury level, that is very unfair.

We should try to lower immigration into that country because it is a total fraud. Canadians are totally fake people, they just take care of their image a lot, but inside they are all racist.

I hope something can be done to place your website in google and yahoo searchs so that people can see it ahead of time and do not immigrate there, to the land of "waste"

Thanks

J.M. Red
jmred @ web.de

October 05,  2006

"There is hunger crisis in the GTA." taken from www.dailybread.ca click on the "Who's hungry..." link. The Daily Bread Food Bank is a food bank in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

So sad that there are so many hungry people in this "first world" nation. Yeah, any proud Canadian may say "this is a great country, that's why we have the food banks to feed the lazy people." Well, some news for you, proud Canadian: most of these people aren't lazy, they are working but the money they make is so low that it isn't enough to feed their families.

"Working Poor: More than half of the people who are working and using food banks earn a wage of $10/hr or more. However, food bank clients work an average of just 25 hours per week. Most say they want more hours, but are unable to get them..."

"Immigrants: Over 40% of food bank clients in the GTA are foreign born. Nearly half of these immigrants have been in Canada for 4 years or less. Many are prevented from working in their fields because their professional credentials aren't recognized. They are unable to find jobs, even though close to 2/3 have post-secondary education..."

To the people who are planning to apply for Immigration Canada (or even thinking about it): another BIG thing that this "GREAT" country has to offer is HUNGER for YOU and YOUR FAMILIES!!!

Moving South is an option for those who are stuck here. Just wait 3 years, get your Canadian passport, and apply for a job and work permit in the USA. In my case, I've just got one more year to leave this living hell.

Christian Collantes
collanteschristian @ yahoo.ca

October 05,  2006

I have been reading posts of disillusioned immigrants sharing their bitter experiences and responses by regular Canadian citizens partially agreeing or vigorously defending Canada. I am sure that complaints posted by those immigrants have merit but the irony to me is that the members of the least prejudiced and probably most immigrant friendly nation have to defend their country while the actual culprit is the Canadian government and not a regular Canadian citizen.

It took me only a few days and not weeks or months that Canadian government is an inefficient one that breeds complacency. The government of course is failing the immigrants by not having a coherent and functional system to help them get jobs related to their skills. It’s primarily government who is responsible for a high cost of living. Just about everything here is more expensive here than in US and I wonder why

1. Canada produces and exports oil to US and yet it’s more expensive here than in US.
2. A decent house with upgraded appliances and furnishings in Texas or in most US states costs two or three times cheaper than one in suburbs of Toronto while land, lumbar or just about anything you need to build a house is available here in abundance.
3. I used to pay about $200 or $250 auto insurance in most states in US for six month period and here and it averages about $200 a month.

Yes, they have medical treatment almost for free but on the flipside its costing tax payers a lot and if only they relax the acceptance system only a bit there are thousands of immigrant’s doctors willing to join the workforce that will bring the cost per patient down and improve the quality of service. They are the same doctors who spent years in their own countries to treat people with probably more complex medical issues back there. I was told upon arriving in Canada that the medical system and Insurance companies are like a mafia here. I tend not to disagree and only add that the government is the Godfather.

I personally have no complaints to a regular Canadian. They surprise me with their tolerance towards immigrants and the culture they bring along. I just request them to please understand that it’s the government most complaints and whining are directed to or at least that’s what I understand.

One thing that I’d strongly disagree from notcanada.com is that “there are no jobs”. Availability of jobs depends on the economic process and these days you really can’t say that there are no jobs. There is gold rush of jobs in Calgary and Edmonton and in general, economy is good but yes you have to be qualified for that.

And in case you are wondering, I am an immigrant who is a native of Pakistan, lived 14 years in US and immigrated to Canada and running a successful business here. My personal situation has no bearing on my opinion but on my observation of the government, the people and the system.

Regards
Motor Head
speedxtreem @ yahoo.com
 

October 03,  2006

To Notcanada.com
 
I have been reading this forum for a while now and the posts talk about many things, but I think many have missed the point.
 
Canada, like any other country, will use what they have to make money. Some countries have produce, some countries have oil, some countries have diamonds. Canada
has something very unique, and that is 'first world country status'. Who gave this status to Canada? Lord only knows, but the fact remains that Canada has it.
 
So they will use it to make money. How? Immigration.
 
All over the world, Canadian embassies have been trained to lure foreigners to Canada. These embassies paint this picture that Canada is the greatest place in the Universe. Free health care, free education, free everything. Jobs, just waiting for you, as soon as you get off the airplane you will be hired. Because, there is a shortage of everything in Canada, shortage of doctors, shortage of skilled workers, shortage of tradesmen etc.
 
None of this is true.
 
But Canada is succeeding in luring foreigners to Canada. Why? Because they have this ‘first world country status’ and people overseas believe that this ‘status’ makes Canada better than their home countries. So they seek that (worthless) Canadian citizenship.
 
I grew up in Canada and honestly I would rather live in a second world country. I eventually moved here to the U.S. because Canada had nothing to offer me. So to those who think ‘I will move to Canada for my children’s future’ let me tell you, trust me, your kids have no future in Canada. We, the ones who grew up there, had to permanently leave the country in order to make something of our lives.
 
Dr. Bruce Lin
Queens, New York
dblinmd @ yahoo.com

Sept 21,  2006

Dear Friend Shannon Fraser,

I was going thro notCanada.com where I saw your writing which shreds anger. You are son of the soil and have a full right on what you say.

But friend is it really nice to blame the immigrants. Your government and its agencies are bringing out big adds in our country telling lousy stories of Canada. People are fooled to believe that gold coins are on the roads. Immigrants are coming from those countries where net is not popular so they are not able to verify websites. They trusts your Governments advertisements. They believe in the advertisements only where your government avoids telling about taxes. We are coming to know details only thro this websites like notCanada.com and also from the writing of the frustrated immigrants.

The writers are mostly qualified and having hands on experience having good potential demand in their country. It is because of the intelligent advertisement of your government that they were lured and is now victimized. Many are staying because of their ego. Just tell me is it fair on your government part to lure a doctor and force him to become a van driver. In this case whom do you blame?

So now you Canadians should come out in the road and ask your government to stop kidding. make it clear that professionals have no opening here in Canada. Those willing to do blue color jobs only should come to Canada. Since the Government is elected by you we blame you for this way to earn foreign exchange at the cost of innocence of migrants.

With best wishes.
Yours loving friend

Subroto Sarkar
India
kittu_pondy @ hotmail.com

Sept 18,  2006

I find it rather funny when Canadians boldly claim that they have the best city in the world, namely Vancouver. I lived in Vancouver and let me tell you that it is very far from being the best. Here is the list of the serious problems I can think of in that city:

1. Crime/Drugs

Being a port city, drug trafficking is a big problem in Vancouver. It tends to be the hub for a lot of the drug traffic. This leads to crime such as property theft which is very prevalent throughout the city. Many cars and bikes are stolen daily. Houses are broken into regularly. Most of the thieves are after property where they can sell it for quick cash.

2. Increasing real estate prices

It is becoming increasingly expensive to live in Vancouver. A lot of real estate has doubled in price over the recent years. It is getting outrageous. This is not a good situation for the average working civilian. Back in the old days, a family could afford to buy a house if you worked hard for a few years. Nowadays, average citizens have to work an average of 30 years to pay off the mortgage on a house.

3. Business/Jobs/High taxes

Overall, Vancouver isn't a good place for business or finding good jobs readily. There are not many opportunities here compared to places like Dubai, New Delhi, New York, Tokyo or some of the bigger cities of the world. Our population is relatively small and the taxes are very high. The average person pays about 50% in taxes if you count all of the semi-hidden semantic words for tax (gas tax, insurance, property tax, environmental levies, license permits, income tax, goods and services tax, tips, etc.)

4. Education

People who want to learn should have the opportunity to have an education. Due to increasing tuition costs, many students cannot afford to pay for their education. This is a waste of talent.

5. Health Care

Canada does have some of the most advanced medical technologies and researchers in the world. It's too bad the system as a whole is on life support. People are dying due to the fact that there are not enough practicing doctors, nurses and hospital facilities. Some are in urgent need of critical surgery but due to the long wait lists for surgery...by the time they have an open spot for the surgery, the patient has passed away.

As a city and nation, I believe it's important that the average citizen should be able to have a reasonable job, have a little money left over each month and be able to afford to live in a house if they worked hard. However, this is becoming more of an exception rather than the norm.  

If the ones at the top continue to be selfish at the expense of the average citizens, this would eventually lead us all into a downfall. It didn't take many people at the top to ruin the once powerful USSR. It is an example of what can happen when the few people at the top only care for their own short-term benefits instead of the citizens of the nation in the long-term. People can achieve a better outcome in the long-term if they worked together as a team instead of against each other.

Andy Kim
akim74 @ uwaterloo.ca

Sept 15,  2006

Hello everyone, As an immigrant that came here in March 2001 from the USA
and after reading all the comments posted on here I thought I would like to
put in my own opinion as Canada is a free country where everyone is entitled
to their own opinion even though others may disagree with them.

I truly sympathize with the new immigrants and all that they are going
through as I know the frustration that they are going through. However hard
work and persistence does pay off. I like so many new immigrants started out
working night shifts in a warehouse. Many a time I wondered why I was doing
this when I did have a good job back home. Let me tell you this, work at it
and do not give up hope. I was there for 5 years and had a good paying job
in my field of work, a nice house (no doubt it may have been out in Milton
but never the less its HOME :)

I came to Canada with the mind set that I was willing to start at the very
bottom and thats exactly what I did. Do not go there expecting to start at
and maintain the same job and standard of living that you had in your home
country. The taxes may be high but let me tell you this... where else in the
world would you have excellent health care at the cost of $0.00. I took time
off from work for 6 months and got paid (Yes got paid for those six months)
and got to spend time with my daughter. Being from the US let me tell you
how many days you get of parental leave... NONE. Maternity leave is about 6
weeks and thats it.

Now I am back in the US and just wanted to say as an former immigrant and
now proud Canadian Citizen. Its hard but you can make it, and I am sure
there are many other success stories out there too. Just dont give up and
don't complain and work at it and you will succeed.

Please do not be racist against anyone, everyone here were once immigrants
and worked hard to get to where they are. People here are a lot more
welcoming that in the United Sates. Being bitter isn't going to solve
anything nor is it going to land you a job.

Good luck to all the new immigrants out there.

Lance Fernandes
Nebraska USA (Milton, Ontario)
lancef @ hotmail.com

Sept 15,  2006

If you are simultaneously a "visible-minority" and "language(English/French)-no-speak."

Me, I am a 2x-year-old guy who resides in Quebec.  I have two Master degrees (MSc and MBA, obtained here), and I speak well English.  However, probably
due to the color of my skin or my funny French accent, I can never manage to develop a career in this place.

Well, let's speak more fairly.  Imagine you are the President of a big company in North America who has numerous offices spreading over the
country.  In front of you, there are two candidates who are applying for the director position in one of the offices.  Given that all their
qualifications are the same EXCEPT that one is White and speaks perfect English; the other is Asian (like me) who speaks English with an accent... 

Who do you think the President is going to hire? It is understandable...  but yet, this fact is just killing us, the visible minorities.

I am planning to go back.  Good luck, folks, if you guys are having the same circumstances as I do and still insist to stay here.

I hate to say this, but I see NO FUTURE for myself if I keep being in this country.

Good bye, Quebec.  Just go for your independency.

Good bye, Canada.  Keep your way like this and all the immigrants/whoever you don't like will go away.

Billy Chan
pecunious @ hotmail.com

Sept 14,  2006

romeo victoriano
romeovictoriano @ yahoo.com

August 27,  2006

Hey there!

I wanted to thank you for creating this website!! The less immigrants to Canada, especially disgruntled, lazy ones, the better!

I am a lower-middle class 20-something female who's family is unable to put myself and sibling through school.  I've worked multiple jobs, sometimes 2 at a time to pay for my education and things like a car, clothing, necessities, etc.  It disturbs me that as a born and raised, fluent English-speaking, and some written French, CANADIAN citizen, I am turned down for some jobs because, oh my lord, I'm WHITE!  Did you realize that some companies are required to have a certain percentage of visible minorities in order to hold government contracts?  I don't mean taxi, pizza or house cleaning companies.  I mean offices, Petroleum and Energy Companies.  I have a friend who does hiring for a department within the Canadian Government.  It discourages her to see vital, well-qualified individuals lose the opportunity for the position due to the fact they must employ x% of visible minorities.  Where is the discrimination there?  You poor, poor immigrant you.

I understand the frustration in going through school and finding out Canada will not honor your degree or certification.  I can't imagine how proud you would feel to receive that paper, then find out it means nothing here.  But you MUST understand, standards are NOT international.  What is acceptable here, may not be elsewhere, or vice-versa.  We have no real way of telling what kind of training you got at such-and-such a school in wherever. We have these standards to protect our people from being operated on by a farmer who made his own certificate from some third-world country.  Realize this, once you are a citizen, it is protecting you from some other immigrant, possibly incredibly under qualified, running your local clinic, power plant or wiring your house because they have a paper saying they can.

About Canadians having no culture.. Hmmm.  How do I put this?  It was stolen from us, unallowed.  Prior to 'us' coming here (I am of British decent) the Aboriginals had their own way of life and beliefs.  Once the Europeans came over and established the democratic system we know today, the country was founded upon Christian beliefs.  This included Christmas and Easter.  We no longer have "Christmas Break", because that offends non-Christians.  Same with Easter.  I am not allowed to send an email at work wishing my co-workers a wonderful Christmas because it may offend someone. My brother is not allowed to wear shit saying "Jesus is My Homeboy" to school because in the public system, symbols of religion are not permitted.  Yet those 'religious' daggers and beginner turbans are permitted.  Don't want to offend anyone now.  We HAD a culture, but those who immigrated to our country were deeply offended by it. Therefore, we had to abandon it.

On a similar topic, if you are wondering why there is a growing number of 'white' being angered by a vast majority of 'nonwhites' here's a peek into why:  Safety regulations (which have NOTHING to do with color or religion, but are there for the individual's safety and liability of the company) are being questioned CONSTANTLY.  It automatically screamed racism if someone tells you "You cant walk here without a hard hat" and you're wearing a turban.  For Christ's sake if something falls on your head you will be the first to sue.  Or "You cannot work here with a beard, in the even you need to wear a breathing apparatus, the mask will not seal to your face and hazardous H2S will be inhaled".  Oh my lord, I cannot believe that someone could actually be telling you that your religious beliefs may have to come second to your safety, and the safety of co-workers having to come to your aid.  Bet your ass I will not put on a mask to save you when there's a leak because your religion does not permit you to wear the required safety gear.  But we're considered racist for creating these laws.

I have ONE question to ask you also.. My grandpa and uncles joined the army, and went overseas to fight for the freedom we currently enjoy.  How many of you will don CANADIAN army greens to fight for this land if required?  Or send your sons/daughters to battle if you are unable?  I cannot think a greater honor than to protect a land so free and proud.  Honestly ask yourself that question.  I know I have, and am certainly willing.  Honestly. Ask yourself this as well.. why should you come here and expect a high-paying position, and luxury lifestyle when you have not worked and paid dues in this country to deserve it.

I think you're forgetting something. When you come here, you are CANADIAN.  I am of British decent, but not British nor British-Canadian.  I AM CANADIAN.  If you are willing to check your bags at the door, work hard and really truly try and make an effort, including learning the language (be it English or French, our two languages) fluently before you arrive, you will be welcomed with open arms.  Don't expect us to coddle you and cuddle you.  That's not our job.  We will respect those who respect us, our culture and beliefs.  The same as you would expect of us if we were to immigrate to your country.  I know some people who are not white, not of this land, yet are incredible, hard working individuals who have made an effort to integrate with our society and did not expect society to integrate with them.  Maybe that's why I like 'em so much, because they're CANADIAN, of X-decent.

One Angrrry, Angrry, Patriotic Canuk.
angrrrycanuk @ hotmail.com

August 24,  2006

August 23,  2006

wow. i avoided this site for quite some time because it made me extremely angry everytime i ventured to it. i just have a couple of questions for those immigrants who are so devestated that Canada did not welcome them with open arms and hand them the career they've always dreamed of and paved the sidewalks they walk on gold!" Heh.

Let's see.

Question Number One:

Why did you come to Canada in the first place? Was it because your country lacks everything that Canada boasts about? Was it because you couldnt find employment in your own country? Was it to segregate yourselves inside of Canada with those from your country? Or... was it to become Canadian?

Question Number Two:

While in Canada, did you speak English? Did you show respect for Canada, its people and its culture? Or did you continue on your marry way, never acknowledging the fact that you are surrounded by people who do not speak the same language? Hmm...

Question Number Three:

I would like you to think long and hard about this question. If a Canadian born person who spoke English were to move to YOUR country, how would they be treated? Would YOUR country have to adapt to their language? Adapt to their religion? Adapt to their difference in attitude? Change THEIR holidays because hey, the Canadians don't believe in the same thing? COME ON NOW PEOPLE. DON'T YOU GET IT.

Look around you. Maybe the Canadian citizens are starting to feel wronged BY YOU. Just maybe. And then you go and make TV Announcements and rallys and websites about how terrible you have it.

SPEAK ENGLISH (which you should do before you even attempt to come here) RESPECT EVERYTHING ABOUT CANADA AND ITS PEOPLE because afterall, Canada DID welcome you into its country. AND TRY. TRY. TRY. Many Canadians struggle. Many Canadians succeed. Many Immigrants struggle. Many Immigrants succeed. Crazy how that works eh?!

If you take the time to look around you, Canadians are trying to work WITH you. Not against you. You're not, not being hired because you are an immigrant. There are many other reasons Im sure. If you get turned down, take that advice and do what you have to do. Trust me, I do fully sympathized with some of the false hope some of you are given but - Most of us Canadians would like to see one big country - instead of little segregated communities. Although I dont think this would ever happen.

And maybe if you refuse to adapt to Canada as Canada is adapting to you, Canada is not the place for you? Please, just speak English. I beg you.

miss bethanne
missbethanne @ hotmail.com

August 23,  2006

The Canadian government is well aware of the biased hiring practices of employers in this country. Despite studies dating back two decades or more, successive governments, both Liberal and Conservative have chosen not to do anything about the issues specific to minorities and immigrants. That's because the politicos and bureaucrats realize that the vast majority of Canadians will not tolerate reforms. In fact many polls show that a majority of Canadians would prefer to have immigration severely curtailed or stopped entirely!

De-skilling via credential non-recognition or the old "no Canadian experience", "overqualified" etc., are the tools used to suppress immigrant potential. At the same time minorities born and educated here are also frozen out of the better paying and more rewarding jobs because Canadians fear their presence in mid and upper level jobs.

Remember that the status quo is working very well for Canadians because it allows them a strong comfort zone where they do not have to "tolerate" new Canadians in the workplace... other than in very menial roles. It's a 19th century mindset and you have seen ample evidence of it on this forum.

The Canadian government's Multiculturalism website has the "Evidence Series" of articles. Here is one of them.

http://www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/progs/multi/evidence/series2_e.cfm

If you are a skilled knowledge worker you should be saying: Bye Bye Canada! Hello USA!

Grant Buckannon
grant_buckannon @ yahoo.com

August 22,  2006

I have a solution for these heartbreaks and tragedies:

Scrap the Point Systems Independent Skilled Worker class and replace it with a TEMPORARY Non-immigrant visa,
similar to the H type visa in the US.

To qualify for this visa, an applicant must be sponsored by a bona fide employer and has a Job Offer in his/her field of
expertise PRIOR to entering Canada.

After three years of continuous employment in his/her field, a professional foreign worker can then apply for a
Permanent Resident status in Canada.

No foreign professional should be admitted into Canada on a permanent basis without first proving themselves that they can
integrate into Canadian society and become a productive member of communities.

Jason Bauer
jasonbauer69 @ aol.com

August 22,  2006

Dear Editor:
 
Thanks for taking the time to put together a site that chronicles the horrible treatment that newcomers to Canada face. I can tell you from my own experiences, that even as an American in Canada, if you haven't been sent there by a corporation, and you aren't super wealthy, you are fighting a losing battle.
 
My partner is a well known professional in the USA.  In Canada, at every turn we were given the cold shoulder.  In over a year and a half, he was not interviewed once in Canada, meanwhile he continued to hear about new positions in his field back in the USA.  He had actually left a very good position in the USA, to come to Canada.  Big mistake.
 
A well known Vancouver immigration lawyer had helped my partner get an "open work permit" which meant that he'd be allowed to take any job while I was studying in Canada, and the lawyer suggested he should have "no problem finding work right away".  This was yet another of the many lies that immigration consultants and lawyers in Canada tell newcomers.
 
Web sites such as   canada-city.ca   and others provide a distorted view of Canada...and make it seem like a wonderful land where people are given opportunities to make it as immigrants.  This couldn't be further from the truth!
 
We spent a fortune in Canada, hoping that as I finished my studies [paying much higher tuition in Canada of course] my partner would find a job and then we could apply to immigrate.  No such luck. Employers in Canada for the most part, will not even talk to someone they suspect is not Canadian born.  Even Americans for whom English is their first language are not considered, as we found out!
 
We left Canada a few weeks ago, and back in the USA, my partner already has work.  It was only in Canada that he had trouble finding employment. The experience in Canada was devastating emotionally, mentally and financially.
 
Why did we come to Canada?  Because we were looking for a more liberal, tolerant nation....as Canada markets itself to be.  We are gay, and had suffered some prejudice and we were also concerned about the social and political trends in the USA.  Little did we know that Canada really isn't as tolerant as it claims to be.  Most of that is a myth, as we found out.
 
In the time we were in Canada, not only did we waste tens of thousands of dollars on living expenses while my partner was out of work --- but we also experienced tons of scams and much prejudice.  Everything from local merchants making false charges on the credit card, to break ins, to con artists trying to steal money from us, neighbors spying on us, people trying to say we were illegal aliens even though we were in Canada legally....it was all much worse than what we had faced back home in the USA.  Canadians have a much more subtle and dangerous form of discrimination, because most of it is hidden and unspoken. A news article was printed about us in the Nanaimo Daily News.  This article only touches the surface of the hell we experienced.  But it is worth reading.
 
Another part of the problem is that online, there are many forums where people discuss immigrating to Canada, but the many consultants on these sites fail to explain the truth:  That there is massive discrimination against newcomers, and few ever get decent jobs.  Many of these sites will attack comments from those who failed to find work in Canada, some will actually delete those comments.  That is why your site is so very important....because it helps provide the other side of the story!
 
As bad as it  was for us, and it was very very bad, at least we didn't totally go bankrupt, and we are now able to pick up the pieces of our lives back in the USA.  Others aren't so fortunate. Please keep up the good work....I've attached a copy of the story about us.  Also, please feel free to re-post all or part of my email message, so others don't go through the nightmare we experienced.
 
David Cappiello
USA  [formerly British Columbia, Canada]
david_cappiello @ yahoo.ca

August 20,  2006

To Whom It May Concern:

I am Iranian 58 years old, second class Canadian, Electrical Engineer
graduated from University of Southern California and worked more than 8
years by Philips company in Germany, I have three sons all graduated from
University of British Columbia.

We entered to Canada in October 26, 1994. I received assurance from Canadian
Embassy employee in Germany that they need a person like me. I started to
apply for engineering job but I haven't received any positive answer from
companies that I applied to. They sometimes kept my resume in their file for
future use. I started to apply as technician then after a while I received
couple of interviews. I went there and interviewer told me: Do you have
Canadian experience? I said: No, I got here a few month ago and I was
rejected. I went for another interview and I was told: you are overqualified
for this job. I found out these are only excuses for not to hire me. I am
working as security Guard and harassed by my neighbours too.

Thank you for making such a good web site to inform new immigrants about
this land. I made a bad decision to come to Canada.

Yours truly,

Alireza Farzaneh
Delta, BC
farzaneh206 @ hotmail.com

August 17,  2006

Kyle Wents  i just wanted to say that your message was really mature first
of all if you were an immigrant who just came to Canada you would know how
all these people here on notcanada.com feel and how they people on CTV
feel.....Canada lies to millions of people they tell you what a great
country it is oppurtunites and all that when you get here you go clean
McDonalds or other odd jobs they tell you to go back to Canadian Colleges
and have Canadian Experience well tell me this how does a canadian
experience differ from other countries 2+2=4 so does in Canada what kind of
experience really?

they make this land sound like a fantasy land but it
really is not its just a place where they try and have taken advantage of
immigrants so its not fair and even if they say they are going home trust
Canada missing them its the last thing on earth they might worry about at
all...WE DONT NEED CANADA TO MOURN FOR ANYONE....Where I live Canadains that
dont even have highschool finished are in managment positions but immigrants
that just have accents dont get it because they have an accent they need
Canadian experience they work their butt off all day and their work goes
unnoticed so dont be talking about anything when you dont know anything....

Arberie Sadiku
arberie_design @ hotmail.com

August 14,  2006

I saw the CTV report and started out feeling as though Canada really needed
to do a better job dealing with this issue, both for its own sake, and for
that of the many people from around the world who choose to make Canada
home.

However, that feeling has been tempered after reading this website.  The
bottom line is that the angry, ranting nonsense found on notcanada.com is
simply the frustrated venting of those who, for one reason or another, have
failed where so many others have succeeded. Who knows why they didn't end up
where they wanted to be? Bad attitudes? Discrimination? Failing to learn how
to navigate the job market and sell themselves? Unrealistic sense of
entitlement based on their status in their homeland? Whatever the
reasons, the immigrants on this board only reflect poorly on themselves, not
Canada.

To suggest that Canada provides no opportunities for immigrants is odd,
considering that Canada is, and has always been, virtually entirely made up
of immigrants or the descendants of immigrants.  With a population of only
32 million, it is unlikely that Canada could have built the world's 8th (?)
largest economy if work was as scarce, or the economy as poor, as many of
these people claim.  As for standards of living, any measures/rankings I've
ever seen (whether from the UN, Economist, global consulting firms, etc),
place Canada at or near the top - far, far, far ahead of the home countries
of people on this board; if names are anything to go by.

I know quite a few Canadians who are first generation immigrants from Asia,
Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Iran and other countries who are
gainfully employed in professional positions (not menial work - jobs I would
happily do and consider to be upwardly mobile and fulfilling).  I also see
immigrants (and many, many Canadians) driving taxis, flipping burgers and
washing floors.  The people on this board should ask themselves what other
successful immigrants have done right instead of asking themselves how
Canada has done them wrong.

Perhaps the United States is a smart alternative; given the size of its
economy there could well be more opportunities for you there.  Or some may
find that with their ugly attitudes, they will fare no better.  Returning to
your homelands may also be the best option.  It certainly seems that many of
you long for just that.  But if you think that sticking your tongue out at
Canada and saying "I'm going home - so there!" is teaching us a lesson:
think again.  Canada will not mourn your absence. You will not be missed.

Kyle Wents
pauccar @ hotmail.com

August 14,  2006

Two summers ago, I cheerfully immigrated with my wife and two children to Canada, on the strength of a resumé that boasted 20 years of HR experience. Soon after, that original sparkle in my eye began to dim. After reading David Hughes article on empowering immigrants in the October 2003 issue of this magazine (“The Incredible Shrinking Workforce”), I felt compelled to share my story.

As a prerequisite to being eligible to come here from Guyana on a self-sponsored basis, I had to prove that I was a professional, with both the qualifications and experience. Moreover, I had to provide settlement funds of $16,000, in addition to other expenses (quite a challenge, if not an impossibility, for many immigrant professionals).
Once here, I wondered why they’d bothered. My experience so far has led me to believe that, regardless of expertise, immigrants are expected to start at the bottom of the scale in every respect. What I can’t figure out is why. Is this just a huge misunderstanding—where the private sector is ignorant of immigrants’ potential value to their organizations? Or could this actually be a deliberate attempt to get a ready stock of overqualified labour to fill the spaces in warehouses, the security forces, telemarketing and other “help wanted” jobs? It certainly seems a wanton waste of rich human capital in a country where there’s a talent shortage.

The fact is that many of the professionals I know, including myself, are stuck in “survival jobs”: driving taxis, working as security guards, toiling in factories and warehouses, engaging in phone sales or involved in the transportation industries. My “survival job” has been as a site supervisor in the security guard industry. Most unsettling for me, is that many of my colleagues (professionals in their own countries) who also work in the low-paid security guard industry, have been in this occupation far too long (three to seven years). Also unnerving was a recent article that appeared in Toronto Metro, which stated that when immigrants do manage to get a “good” job, they often linger on the low end of the pay scale for longer than the average worker.

I can tell you from my own experience that after an immigrant has spent a few months, or years, searching in vain for a professional job in Canada (which they are fully qualified for), self-esteem begins to fall. This was brought home to me again recently, when I was training a new recruit, an immigrant, as a security guard. The position was in a busy shipping and receiving environment. It required attention to detail, communication skills and computer literacy, all skills the employee possessed. This man had a master’s degree, coupled with a two-year diploma from a reputable Canadian college. Yet, at the end of the first day, he announced that he didn’t think he could do the job.

I recognized his problem, and it had nothing to do with his skills. His confidence had eroded. I used my HR experience to encourage him to hang in for two more days. At the end of the third day he was doing fine. On the fourth day, he was working quite admirably on his own with a great big smile. What was the miracle? Communication, attitude and motivation.

How can the bigger problem be solved? Help for new immigrants must extend beyond resumé writing to programs that will help skilled immigrants acquire the necessary “Canadian experience” (one of the biggest obstacles of all for new Canadians). This could take the form of internships, mentorships, counselling programs and entry-level positions. Job requirements should be adjusted to reflect this, in keeping with the existing rich diversity policies. And all the major employment agencies should be involved to make sure immigrants are awarded the appropriate credentials and experience assessments.
As for me, I have not lost my career focus, nor dimmed my intention to succeed. I joined HRPAO and am now enrolled at Humber College, where I have successfully completed 50% of the courses for my CHRP designation. I have a lot to contribute to this great country, and I look forward to getting a chance to do so, someday soon.

Rampersaud Dhela
rdhela @ rogers.com

August 14,  2006

Chris Engelhardt
Kanobee @ rogers.com

August 14,  2006

Qusai Kanchwala
qusai79 @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

I was reading the crap you immigrants have put up here; lowest drug abuse so
you say and on what statistics do u get this from. It is a proven fact that
immigrants of all backgrounds come here, sell drugs, do not get educated, 
commit crimes such as in calgary in 2005 wherer most all the shots that led
to deaths were from asian people. Says who? The witnesses to these crimes,
and in vancouver sikhs and chinese people are the biggest population of gang
members. sudanese people come here with a very high number of aids patients.
Look at your country's education. It does not compare to canada. You would
get jobs here if you had the same level of eduction provided by canadian
schools.

Also look at the crime rate. Most of the crimes repoted are being
done by immigrants because our laws are not as harsh as most of the third
world countries you come from. You should know before coming here you have
to redo your eduction. None of your countries education are up to par with
ours. You must know how to properly read and write english. Stop crying
about how you have to work hard, everybody in this country has to work hard
so join the club. If you do not like it, DO NOT COME HERE. We would do alot
better without you bringing your sick propagnda here and also all you arabs
have got to admit we have to be cautious about letting you in here; most of
us do not know if you're going to be the next bombers.

chad sims
top_dogs7 @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

This is the most truthful site in all of Canada. I immigrated to Canada
during my teenage years. I completed high school and post secondary in
Canada. I know that many of my caucassian classmates have been able to find
jobs after graduation. Whereas I''ve been through numerous interviews ending
with "not enough experience" or "overqualified/underqualifed". I've been
forced to do demeaning jobs to survive for past years - while working under
people with much less experience and clearly lower IQ.  I am now trying to
get a second degree when I stumbled upon this website.

I now feel encouraged to find opportunity in US. Most of the concerns
expressed on this website are true. Finding a job in Canada depends on RACE,
ACCENT, CONNECTIONS OR WHO YOU KNOW. And nothing to do with education or
experience.

Contrary to most Canadian believe that immigratns expect to find jobs handed
to them on silver platter once we get here, we work very hard to integrate
and find jobs only to have every door slapped in our faces. To prove my
point, try painting your face darker, change your name to a foreign one,
apply for job, go thorugh interviewing process and see how youa are treated.

My only advice to people who are considering coming here is that research
thoroughly. Visit first before moving here. A skilled worker such as a
welder or truck driver may survive here if you can stand the discrimination
and ignorant Canadians. IF YOU A SKILLED PROFESSIONAL DO NOT COME TO CANADA.
The discrimination and ignorance alone will kill your self cofidence.

genuine adwoa
genuine03 @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

Finally - somebody who tells it like it is! I'm an ESL teacher - I've been teaching almost 20 years, LINC for almost half of those years. Its been devastating to watch LINC programs treat immigrants (general with more education than the Gov't & reps RUNNING the programs) like complete idiots. And you know, new immigrants have no choice; sit through agonizing day after agonizing day of ESL classes designed to keep class numbers up and turnover down or be cut off from *the system*.

Sure, the Canadian government treats all Canadians like complete morons, and give us little recourse and nowhere to change things. It's especially embarrassing to have true integrity and a genuine wish to help Newcomers get enough understandable English to a) not get treated like crap when they go out into English speaking society b) get a job that is leagues lower than what they were promised but assuredly a job driving a taxi beats the depression that comes with being on the Canadian dole. Canadians don't understand that to the majority of people from outside Canada, welfare is an insult to a person's ability to make a living!

I'm tired of the barrage of "opinions" I hear from anyone who knows what I do for a living. I couldn't care less about the email they got saying "Refugees make more money than Senior Citizens". I can't change that. Don't yell at me, take it to Parliament.

Don't worry - those of us who work with immigrants get shafted too. Only part-time hours with no job security, no benefits and God Forbid no political jockeying with the people who monopolize the programs!

It's a "sink or swim" Canada for everyone. Instead of complaining about it, why doesn't everyone get off their butts and DO something about it, whatever their opinion may be? Where to go, who to contact? That's what should be on this site.

L N
fantastic711 @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

Good day everybody!
I want to say "Thank you" to everybody who did the program about the
immigrants frustration and bad lives in Canada on CTV-news. When I saw this
program, I said that it was the description of my family life.
I and my parents  have been in Canada not very long time. But this time
became for us a horrible nightmare!

We were waiting for our coming to Canada for five years, and all these years
we were dreaming about better life in Canada, but this didn't happen.
My Father and I speak English fluently (we both passed EILTS), my Father is
excellent specialist in his industry, has high education, has for about 10
years of expierence in German company, but he was only offered general
labour job. That's why he needed to came back to Europe, to get some money
for surviving for his family here, in Canada. We were sepparated from each
other, we are like in cage: Father is working out of the country, and my
Mother and I here. My Mother can't come back home, because she can't leave
me here, alone, in Canada, because of my entering to one of Canadian
University.

I don't know about Canadian people entering the University in Canada,  some
say that it's easy to get to the University, but for me it was really hard.
I don't speak about passing English exams (Although I passed English exam
(EILTS) in my native country very well, I was stricktly offered to pass it
again), I speak about my progress in study which I made in my country. In my
native country I finished school and the first year of the University with
the highest marks, which somebody only can imagine. But here I wasn't
accepted to continue my University education, I was asked to try to enter to
the University, and even didn't explain why I can't continue. Now, when I
read the comments of the people on this website, I don't know if it's worth
to continue to study in Canada, if in future I wouldn't be able to get the
job in my field.

Why my parents have to suffer because of me? By the way, my
Mother, who is a doctor (with the expierence of 20 years) is working as a
house cleaner. All my relatives: parents, grandparents, grand grand parents
are and were highly educated people with high brain potential; my
grandmother is a doctor, my drandfather is a dentist, my grand grand father
is a genetic engineer. Every generation of my family had the great
potential, and now everything just turned around on my Mother, when she
became to work as a house cleaner. By the way many people from my native
country who are engineers, doctors, architectures, professors of math and
physical science are working now as cleaners, or dishwashers, or factory
workers; some of them who are lucky working as drivers.

Is it worth to arrive to Canada, where there is no work for skilled
professionals, no health care, where all the hopes and dreams become
nigthmare, where families will be destroyed? Wouldn't it be easy for
Canadian Government to say the truth to new immigrants or people who still
want to come to Canada, that Canada needs only general labour workers,
cleaners, dishwashers, taxi and truck drivers, support workers, ect.
                                                                            
Anna Bondarenko
anya_newlife @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

To All CONCERNED:-

I have just seen todays (Aug 13th)  a CTV program that is what I have faced
in coming to Canada in Oct. 1996 from the UK as an experienced AEROSPACE
professional. Below is a brief outline of my "HORRID"
existence here in CANADA

I came to Canada in Oct. 1996 with my family from the UK. I thought that
Canada would give me a warm welcome and live upto its image of providing a
"decent" standard of living and provide us with the tools to become good
Canadian citizensas set out by our taking the oath of citizenship in April
2001.
Our initial experience was good, but through the nature of the industry I am
involved in, and the company which gave me a job in the beginning -
Bombardier's deHavilland Inc. in Downsview, Ontario. I was made redundant
quite soon afterwards, and have come against brick walls at every step I
undertook to get PAID EMPLOYMENT.
I have taken general labour work at basic wage rates, and more recently
(from May 1999) bought into franchise with my wife's a short term measure to
try and keep us afloat. The business is registered with my wife, allowing me
to seek the technical, professional job to get me back in the industry here
in Canada. SADLY, this has not come about, though not for the lack of
trying. The business does not support us financially, through the nature of
the fast food industry, and its location making it imperative that I get a
secondary source of income. CANADA has not allowed this to happen, and I
have been FORCED to look back to Europe to give me employment.(short term
sub contracts with Airbus.)
While this is good in that it gets me back at work and active in the
industry, it is away from my home and family. I am no longer a NEW
IMMIGRANT, but fall into the category of foreign trained professional not
getting work in their respective fields, which brought them to Canada in the
first place.
I have written to the local press on this issue on numerous occasions (The
Hamilton Spectator) over the years as they have also highlighted this
matter. I have also written numerous letters to my MP(Diane Finlay and Toby
Barrett(MPP).I am now back with my family after finishing a recent stint of
work in Germany, but looking for EMPLOYMENT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
I have sent out many resumes, but I get no reply from any one here in
CANADA.
I want to see out the rest of my working life here in Canada, but this will
not be the case. I am now seeking employment in Seattle and back in the
UK(Cambridge) wherte Professionals are saught after.
What else can I do?

Canada is using the revenue it gains from  new immigrant visas etc. from the
IMM1000 to put in someone's back pocket ie the Liberal Sponsorship scandal.
So How can we tell THE WORLD THAT CANADA IS NOT ALL MILK AND HONEY.

Many thanks,
Indrajit Mitra (IENG.AMRAeS.MIET) --- UK designations.
imitra @ mountaincable.net

August 13,  2006

Jill Roberts
busy_lawstudent22 @ yahoo.ca

August 13,  2006

joha2000 @ shaw.ca

August 13,  2006

First of all, the comments about Canadians on this website disturbs &
digusts me. For many of those here who have referred to Canadians as being
"white pigs", "rednecks", "stupid", "uneducated" - what do these comments
say about yourself? Grouping all Canadians into one of those stereotypes
sounds pretty racist to me.

I think people need to know that not being able to find a professional job
in Canada has nothing to do with race! I was born here, lived here all my
life and my OWN government/university never told me that I would not have a
job in my field - 11 years after I graduated with a BSc!!!! I have had
unrelated jobs, but now I have been out of the workforce for the past 3.5
years raising my 4 children, and I cannot find a decent job that would be
even worth my while (after paying for daycare, vehicle, gas, etc, etc)!!

My best advice to anyone moving to a new country is do your research - don't
blame everyone else for your misfortunes because you failed to do your
homework. Usually a life altering event such as moving halfway across the
world would require more than just talking to ONE government agency! Of
course they are going to promise you the world - just like the university
did to me while they were getting my tuition money!

Large cities - RESEARCH - Don't expect to get the good jobs at first, if at
all. The job markets for professionals in those large cities are very
competitive. I have lived in Canada all my life and would not even consider
looking for a job in Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver - there are much better
places to live here in Canada. Also, I have met people from those cities who
I thought were arrogant! Does that mean I think everyone from Canada or
everyone from Toronto is arrogant? Hell no!

Taxes - RESEARCH - Go to the Canadian government website called REVENUE
CANADA - you can figure out what taxes you wll be paying while living here.
When this information is so readly available, I don't understand how someone
can complain that they didn't know they would pay all these taxes! Heck I
detest the taxes we have to pay, but that is the price you pay for a pension
plan, insurance if your lose your job, keeping the poor off the streets and
the nation healthy with free healthcare.

Weather - I don't think the weather is all that cold out here on the East
coast, but living in Winnipeg or the Prairies in the winter, and yes it is
dang cold! RESEARCH - don't expect to come to Canada and live on the beach
all year 'round watching your fortunes pile up in your bank account from
your laptop. Isn't gonna happen, unfortunately!

Lynn Dots
iamcanadian73 @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

Please, get the f*ck out of MY COUNTRY. My family has lived in this country
for 215 plus years, (and yes I am white) so I feel I have the RIGHT to call
it mine.

I am sickened by what I see today. Your website says that we have no
culture. How can we, when all you people (middle eastern people mostly),
come to my country and try and force your shit on us. How can we have a
culture, when you people don't want to blend in to ours, but maintain the
one you had in your home country. Your women walk around with scarves over
their face, you all speak in your native language, etc... This is Canada,
not Lebanon, Pakistan, Iran or wherever. Last time I checked there are only
TWO (2) official languages, ENGLISH & FRENCH, learn one and speak it
assholes, everybody else did.

You say that the weather is bad. Last time I checked that was one of the
things that makes Canadians who they are (or used to be anyway). Is that
part of our culture?

Who do you think you are, expecting to walk through the doors at the airport
and have us bow at your feet and shower you with bags of money. You think
you deserve the top paying jobs, without having to work for them. Canada was
built on the backs of hard working people, people that came here with
nothing and worked hard for everything they have.

I am glad this website is hear, maybe the number of immigrants will slow and
we can get back to the country we had 15 to 20 years ago.

Shannon Fraser
sw_fraser @ hotmail.com

August 13,  2006

Hello .
I saw a program called W-Five on CTV yesterday and I felt ,I born again !
It was my voice ,It was all I wanted to say ,to share and ....,
I knew your website from there and I just wanted to say Thanks .
Thanks for all your help and information .
I Have my own story and I would published that as soon as I can ,even I'm ready to interview .....Have you ever had an immigrant that experienced Cancer 1 year and half after getting immigrated here ? Do they speak out about health care and its issue in here ?
My husband and I had this experience and we suffered to death .I hope I never came in here .never ever .

I will be with you now and future.
mitra hooshiar
mhooshiar @ yahoo.com

August 12,  2006

I recently attempted to hire an immigrant for a job in IT. This was a senior position with substantial salary. Working through Emploie-Quebec, I selected a young Algerian with a Master's in Computer Science. After spending nearly $1,000 on his travel expenses, meals, hotels, to attend our interview, we discovered all his papers were false and he had come to Canada with fraudulent documentation. His response to that was simply, "I can learn..."

That's the problem with documents coming from many immigrants. We are simply not willing to spend months checking someone out properly, as we do for Canadians. Keep that in mind when you claim employers don't give you a break. My colleagues tell me fraudulent university diplomas are widespread.

Your web site is totally biased. You are free to stop collecting welfare and other government funding and return to your own country. Surely the idea that you all lived like "kings" and left so much behind is a bit of a stretch of the imagination. Why would anyone leave so much for so little, according to the various diatribes.

Andre Escaravage
Baie des Chaleurs
Gaspe Peninsula
esca @ globetrotter.net

August 12,  2006

The laws prohibiting people w/ phds and such to find real jobs are excessive
and a bit ridiculous, I admit.

But you are pretty ignorant/stupid to not realize that it is way better than
almost any other country.
There are not civil wars, no real threat of
typhoons,volcanos,earthquakes,etc.., a government that is less corrupt than
most others, etc

We have one of the lowest crime rates in the world (in TO there are about
60-70 murders a year, in any major US city there are several hundred) and we
do not engage in phony wars out of greed (ie iraq).

We don't have garbage customs like honor killings or killing in the name of
religion.

If you don't like this place, get the hell out and back to whatever hellhole
you came from, you spoiled, disgusting pricks.

Nick May
nickwmay @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

I agree with you. In fact, it is for those reasons that you stated, that I
decided to leave Canada 8 years ago. I visit friends in Canada once every 3
years only to witness the further deterioration of a Country that used to
enjoy the privilege of being the best place to live in the world, lost since
to Norway.

Given the predominatly anglo saxon arrogance of the Gov. People, together
with other factors, I do not see any forthcoming change for a better Canada
in the forseable future.

Best Regards, keep up your informative work,

Joseph Leod
jleo @ netpoint.com.br

August 12,  2006

I am a young Canadian woman i feel that the immigrants that come to Canada should see it from some Canadians point of view. I just watched a televison program with a whole bunch of immigrants complaining that they came to Canada seeking GREAT JOBS AND LOTS OF DREAMS, and got here and had nothing, and are stuck in dead end jobs. They feel that with the education they have they should be working in thier chosen fields. Well open up your eyes and take a look around, those so called " dead end jobs" that you people feel you are stuck in, many of us canadians do the same thing for a living. You people say that our government promised you jobs and prosperity when you came here, which is complete BULLSHIT! Why would our government promise you something they cant even promise our own people?? Maybe if you guys are making such drastic decisions like migratting to Canada, take it upon your selves and look to see if you will be able to work when you get here, have jobs lined up before you get here. The internet is and amazing piece of technology so use it, instead of blaming us for your so called losses.

Most of the immigrants i have heard talk about not having jobs here talk about the jobs they had in thier home land, Well if your job was so awesome in your home land you should have stayed that and stuck with the job. You cant rely on other people to find you jobs. When our government excepts you as an immigrant, it is then up to you to find work, if you cant find work in the city you are in do like most Canadians do get on to job find, find a place where thier is work and go there and get it. Life is something that is ment to be worked at, its not handed to you on a silver platter. In Canada we need more trades people then anything, so maybe you should take a look and see where our work is needed before moving here, so i feel you people are just as much to blame if not more to blame as much as we are for you not being able to find jobs.

Ashleigh Deslaurier
ashleigh_deslaurier86 @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

Hi

I really love your website. It is full of stories about immigrants and their
broken dreams. These immigrants do menial jobs, deal with language
and immigration issues, discrimination, often work six or seven days per
week. They keep their head high, pay their taxes, never collect welfare,
and they eventually become somebody. WHILE CANADIAN PEOPLE,
WHO NEVER FACE THESE PROBLEMS, COLLECT WELFARE AND
PANHANDLE, WITH GREAT CANADIAN SMILE ON THEIR FACE. Who
is the burden on the back of canadians? Canadians themselves. Who
is the asset? Immigrants. I support immigants and condemn canadians
as a bunch of lazy bastards.

Cheers
Michael Abraham
michaelabraham25 @ rogers.com

August 12,  2006

Hello,

I agree wholeheartedly with much of your frustrations with Canada,
although I am not an immigrant, having been born and raised here.  I
can tell you from personal experience that Canada is no worker's
paradise.  My parents emigrated here from the United Kingdom in the
1950s.  When my father became seriously ill in the 1970s, the system
did little or nothing to provide him with income security despite his
ill health.

When I completed a degree in the late 1980s, I found myself having a
great deal of difficulty in finding relevant work.  While attempting to
earn enough to survive, I spent the 1990s doing a variety of things,
including delivery, temporary office work, telemarketing, and market
research.  Our system DOES allow one to have a work income without a
"job", if one is organized and resourceful.  Another means of survival
is purchasing as little as possible, and doing so from second-hand
stores.  There is no shame in this, as many high-quality goods have
been discarded by the proportion of Canadian society which is doing
well.

Our system favours those who find relevant work early in their careers,
and don't make major career changes.  Any black mark on a resume (such
as employment gaps) is viewed as a reason NOT to hire an individual. 
Although the publicized unemployment rate is about 8%, in reality, it
is probably closer to 15%, so employers can be choosy, unless they need
very difficult to find qualifications.

More recently, our government has been encouraging its citizens to take
a more entrepreneurial approach, and form businesses instead of
searching for that elusive job.  However, it also views some types of
work (i.e. independent contracting, which lies halfway between
traditional employment and self-employment, and involves no government
deductions) with mistrust.

More recently, I have started a small business, and am drawing on all
of my experience from the past twenty years.  Although I'm not yet
making a good living from it, I hope to succeed.  I don't think that my
experience has been much different from those of you who have been
abused by the Canadian system.

Incidentally, you might want to remove this link.  It is extremely
negative, and does absolutely nothing to enhance your site, which is
otherwise quite
credible. http://www.negativepositive.org/fuck-canada.html

Regards,

Ivan Stephen
istephen @ vaxxine.com

August 12,  2006

August 12,  2006

Do your RESEARCH before you come here! Go back to where you came from if you
don't like it. Don't come here an bitch about how tough it is.

Michael B
otgoal @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

I can't imagine why a doctor from pakistan would stand for living in
Toronto, the worst city in Canada, when he could move west of Ontario
and be a Doctor anywhere or he could move back to Pakistan and be a
doctor there.  If its so bad there why don't you move?? There are a lot
of places in sask., alb, bc. starving for doctors.  Or if its Canada you
don't like them move back to you shit country or move to the US and see
how you like it there.

Jared St. John
jaredstjohn @ shaw.ca

August 12,  2006

rufuscat @ shaw.ca

August 12,  2006

Heres an idea..if it is SO tragic to come to Canada I have a simple solution...DONT COME.Stay where you are if you are a doctor or a lawyer.I am born and raised in Canada and you know what? Im not rich and successful either.The problem with immigrants is that they expect everything to be handed to them when they come here ,and I for one am tired of the bitching and complaining about it.Nobody forces these people to come here,and by no means is anyone keeping them from going away.

Dave Murdoch
dcoolwater64 @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

As someone born in this country, I have had to make my own way in life,
without handouts, or preferential treatment. I have worked hard to get where
I am, a good job, a bachelor's degree, and a great family.  I have gone
through tough times myself, and been frustrated by the Canadian government,
but honestly, who hasn't.

Unfortunately, there is a large majority of new immigrants that come to
Canada that believe that they are owed something for coming here.  If it is
so bad here in Canada, and you were wealthy and successful in your own
country, why are you here?

Immigration is a privilege, not a right, and truly Canada owes you nothing!

I am sure if you asked the average Canadian about immigration, they would
all tell you the same thing.that we wish you would stay where you are if you
are going to arrive with a sense of entitlement.  Those that come and have a
"Canadian Dream", who work hard, often do achieve it.

As an HR professional, I have met with and helped a number of new
immigrants, who to this day still contact me to thank me for what I have
done for them and their families.  These individuals did not come to me
demanding a job, they worked hard just like the average Canadian to get
where they are.

Also, I take offence to the comment about the "beer drinking, hockey
watching welfare bums", if a similar comment was made about your nationality
it would be racist or prejudicial, yet it is commonly acceptable for other
ethnicities to make comments about the Caucasian-Canadian.

So if you are going to come to Canada with a mentality of entitlement, then
stay where you are.  If you are going to come here and contribute to our
great country..then WELCOME!

EBH
Toronto
i.am.canadian32 @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

Let me start by saying I am a business owner with a valued team of over 400
employees.  I am Canadian born, with an recently immigrated wife (though
NAFTA).  A significant portion of my workforce are immigrants, some of high
education including my Controller who has an MBA from Pakistan.

I am outraged by the comments and stupidity found in your website.  Why is
it the problem of Canadians or our government to employ educated  foreigners
who did not take the time to educate themselves on the processes to obtain
their Canadian equivalency credentials before coming to our country.

If you are such a valued workforce why have you not done the due diligence
prior to coming?  And if you didn't why are you complaining about it?

My wife did and immediately got work in her field in a senior position.  My
Controller did, (and although had to work his way up over the course of 2
years ) he has found work where he is appreciated and valued.  What is wrong
with the rest of you?

If you didn't do the proper research before coming to our beloved country
then you deserve to mop our floors, drive our taxi's and clean our
toilets.... or better yet, go back to your country because honestly most of
us don't want you here.

If you did your research, congratulations, welcome to Canada and I hope all
of your dreams are fulfilled.

I sincerely hope you post this in your forum for all to see an honest
comment from a significant Canadian employer.  Feel free to post my email
address for the abundance of ignorant people looking for a scape goat for
their own ineptitude or laziness.

Jeff Scott
jeff_scott35 @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

Alexandra
alexsellers @ shaw.ca

August 12,  2006

I am wondering how you can bash our country so.  I have a friend who was
fired from his job after 13 years of dedicated service for reasons he was
not "enlightened" about.  He cannot collect Employment Insurance now.  On
the other hand I have a friend who recently immigrated to Canada with no
education and no substantial career experience.  She receives 1500 a month,
medical, and her rent is paid.  The government accomodates these people
quite nicely.  Meanwhile I am paying close to a third of my earnings every
cheque in income tax to our government.  If I have to go on unemployment I
won't make what they are giving to most immigrants who cannot find a job. 
Why is this?  Why, if after paying the government  thousands and thousands
of dollars in income tax, EI, and CPP, must those dollars go to people who
have not contributed to our social services.  It would be much different if
that money went to the people who paid in to it but that is not the case and
it's a joke.

  The fact that any of these immigrants would come here and then procede to
bash us in any way is a mystery to me.  Sounds like someone who has a
professional designation who decides to move to Canada hasn't done there
homework and contacted possible employers.  hmmmm.  Any professional with a
respectable education or degree or training does not make uncalculated
decisions or put themselves in a situation like I have read on this site. 
Wow, you've got to be kidding me.  Sounds to me like a bunch of people who
would whine about anything.  We are all responsible for our own professional
development aren't we?  If someone fled their country to seek safety in
Canada, then we have provided them with that.  Do they really think we
should sugar coat it and accomodate them when our unemployment exists?  I
have worked on sites where immigrant workers make up most of the crew.  How
is this fair when I know people who are capable of doing the work that these
immigrants are doing but an employer would rather pay an immigrant a few
dollars an hour less.

  If someone moved here who had a PhD in another country and ended up
driving a cab here to live then why are they complaining.  First and
foremost, what is that PhD worth compared to a PhD granted from our
education system.  hmmm.  Second, why wouldn't they move back to the country
they came from.  Sounds to me that they choose to live here, don't you
think?  If you don't like it then...........  Stop whining.

The police force along with many other agencies and corporations give more
opportunities for employment to people of visible minorities.
  We let large numbers of people into our country without discrimination all
the time and what happens?  There are numbers of people creating hate and
terrorist organizations that mainly wish to threaten our "Western" way of
life.  There should be a much more strict door to any immigrant.  No
discrimination needed but come on now.  I think we all know that we are far
to laid back when it comes to immigration laws.
Your ideas are blatantly painful to our country.
Am I a redneck?  I am not a narrow minded person am I?  Your response would
be appreciated.

Dave Melenius
davemelenium @ hotmail.com

August 12,  2006

Unlike most of you, I came to Canada at the tender age
of 19. I got my high school diploma and flew directly
to Canada right after that. I left behind a very
shattered country where I was sure I would not find my
place. Time was hard for me at the time of my arrival
here, mainly because of family problems and the fact
that my spouse was stuck in Haiti.

I agree with some things that the participants have
said in here and although I have gone through the
exact same humiliations and problems, I'm afraid I
totally disagree with most of them. One should not
come to any country demanding anything. I am not
saying that you should be looking for trouble or
failure but please let's not pretend that we would be
more than happy to see immigrants invade our own land
and claim all the jobs they can put their hands on.
That happened to Haiti and that's the reason why I am
here today in Canada. This country is different from
other ones, they have specific needs and the career
fields that you probably chose back home do not
necessarily fit with them. You are all blaming this
government for what ever happened to you, I can
understand that they have a big part in it but so do
you.

I am not trying to defend Canada or its
government but before coming here I had made some
investigations simply by frequenting my school
library, I was 19 and not a college graduate then. You
folks probably were to caught up in your big dreams
and failed to do the obvious which is to simply
inquire about this country. We all wanted the best for
ourselves and family members that we forgot to check
out the web and gather information about a place where
we were willing to migrate into with no questions
asked. Canada lied to you ? It may be so but you
helped its government to. Please do not feel insulted,
I feel the same about some things going on in this
country but I refuse to blame every one else for my
own failures. Let's stop whining and do like this
participant said let's work together and fight for our
basic rights, the right to a brighter future.

People are always comparing Canada to the USA well you
shouldn't because if you do you will be making a big
mistake, the mentality is different and the people
too. You claim that they are all stupid and
illeterate, I do not know who you've been dealing with
but not all Canadians are dumb-ass jerks and
ignorants. I live in Quebec and aside from few racist
remarks I have been speaking to great french-canadians
with great things to say. It's not easy to build a
small company from the ground up but it's worth the
try. My only advice in here for you all is to try to
forget about who you were before coming in here
because it's a whole new world, innovate, Canada is a
virgin land why not model it to attain your dreams ?

Yes I know you were doctors over there and that it
would be a shame to give up so easily but instead of
fighting a system that will end up eating you up any
way why not use it to your advantage, there is no
shame in starting all over in some other fields. Life
is all about sacrifices. My country had shown me one
thing before I left it, do what ever to survive and
stay on top. There is no shame in pumping up gasoline
or answering calls in a call center, it's all in your
heads. Yes I know that you got your diplomas from your
country or other parts of the world and you were eager
to make it in Canada but frankly if my country were
able to give me one third of what yours gave you well
I would've never given it up for any fake or real
eldorado. The paradise was in your head so be brave
enough to say that your crazy unattainable dreams
prevented you from seeing what Canada truly was, a
mostly agricultural land where it is hard to make end
meets even for the so-called original breed - most of
them can barely make it !

The government was wrong to lie in your face and I am
sorry that things did not go well for most of us but
sometimes we are so eager to leave our own country
that we forget one simple rule : "Life ain't easy no
where". Peace and much love.

Unity is the key to all of our problems,
karine guillaume
cakoue @ yahoo.com

August 8,  2006

Canada’s Labour Record Ranks with Turkey, Chad and Morocco:

Ottawa – Canada has one of the worst records of any western country in promoting and protecting labour rights, says Larry Brown, national secretary—treasurer of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE).
For decades, Canadian governments have made a mockery of the United Nations (UN) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) by signing international conventions on labour and human rights and then shamelessly violating them at both the federal and provincial level, Brown told the annual general meeting of the Canadian Teachers’ Federation.
“In the last 22 years, our governments have passed 87 pieces of back-to-work legislation," he noted. "This is an astounding number. Most of this legislation not only forced workers back to work, but also unilaterally imposed settlements. This has happened@least 46 times in the recent years.”
"That's worse................................"
"Since 1982, Unions in Canada have filed more complaints with the ILO’s Freedom of Association Committee than the national labour movements from any of the ILO’s 177 member states,"Brown said.
Brown said it’s interesting to contrast the Canadian government response to violations of workers’ rights with violations of the corporate rights set out in international trade agreements.
The Canadian government has gone to bat repeatedly for industry (the softwood lumber dispute is a good example), directly and forcefully intervening wherever necessary to ensure to protect industry and business, he said. But the attitude is entirely different when the rights of
ordinary workers are at stake.
“Their position, when they are severely criticized by the ILO, is ‘So what?’ The ILO has now grouped Canada with countries such as Chad and Morocco for its labour rights record, “Brown said.

From www.thejobguide.ca July/06 issue

lenny leno
lenolenny@yahoo.com

August 7,  2006

What most Canadians simply can not understand is that the Canadian government INVITES thousands of highly skilled immigrants to Canada under the false assumption that we and our skills will be used. We did not come to Canada fleeing from war, disease, hunger or political instability. We, professional immigrants, were told by the Canadian government that we would be able to get professional jobs in this country. We were deceived, lied and fooled in a very bad way. Canadians have all the right to chose the immigrants they want, and they have all the right to protect their country from foreigners, but they do not have the right to lie to people. In other words, if Canada needs factory workers and cleaning staff they should say so SINCE THE VERY BEGINNING. They should HONESTLY say that there are no professional jobs for new immigrants, no matter how well qualified. Does that word –HONESTY- rings a bell? How can you Canadians ask for HONESTY if you routinely act in such a DISHONEST way?

They tell us to EARN our way up… But what have we being doing most of our lives? So then our skills and knowledge are worthless? Are they good to immigrate but not to get a half decent job? Is math or computer science different in other countries? What about people (like me) who studied a masters or even a PhD in Canada and gets a treatment worst than a Canadian’s high school drop out? Yeah, even with a Canadian masters, 7 years of international work experience and 3 languages I had to take orders from Canadian high school drop outs during my last months in the country…. So your universities are worthless or are we, just for being immigrants? And we were willing to work for the benefit of Canada and pay all those hefty taxes! WHAT A WASTE OF POTENTIAL!

Most skilled immigrants are hard working and very professional people who do not expect things for free or a land of milk and honey. But there is a huge difference between having a hard time getting ahead in a new country (most of us expected that, we are not naive) and suffer a systemic discrimination that makes nearly impossible to get forward. It is also impossible to make Canadians understand this, they are simply very stupid… Even their top government officials recognize that professional immigrants perform better in every parameter (education, health, respect for the law) than most NATIVE CANADIANS. These guys also do not understand that those German and Polish immigrants who came here decades ago were NOT professional people INVITED by the government, they were decent people who were fleeing war and hunger and had nothing to offer but their labor. Our situation is completely different. Canadians think that places other than North America, Western Europe and Japan simply can not offer a decent standard of living for human beings and are plagued by poverty and anarchy (again, they are very ignorant), and they truly believe that they are the best this world has to offer, yet most of them have not traveled out of their own borders! IGNORANCE, IGNORANCE, IGNORANCE… These people get their education from TV shows!

GET OUT OF CANADA NOW!!!
Still worse, Canada is packed with rednecks for whom is very easy to say something brilliant such as “get out if you don’t like it here”. Well, the redneck had it right this time. There is not a chance you can win. Get out of Canada now. I’ll give you an example of the hopelessness you’ll face if you stay there: even the most brainless Canadians recognize the fact that their health care system faces a serious shortage of professionals, right? But what do they do with the doctors, surgeons and nurses they get from abroad? They send them to wash dishes and drive taxis, just like the rest of the immigrants… Ask yourselves: If they mistreat and routinely discriminate the kind of professionals they desperately require, what can happen to the other highly skilled immigrants who are not in such a critical demand? I sent a message to this forum a few months ago (see message on February 15, 2006) with an advice I’ll send again:
“I'm using Canada merely as a step and I encourage ALL OF YOU TO DO THE SAME.
TAKE WHATEVER YOU CAN FROM THIS COUNTRY AND THEN LEAVE. LET THESE HYPOCRITES TO ENJOY THEIR AWFUL WINTERS AND THEIR "PERFECT" COUNTRY. “

Well, I did. I left Canada for good last July 1 and now I’m living in California. It was the best way to celebrate Canada Day that I could think of. That’s the best and only way you can deal with these people. I’m now simply using my Canadian citizen status to get a decent job here. I miserably lost 2 years of my life in Canada, and Canada lost about CAD $50,000 in me (I got much lower tuition fees at school, health services, French classes, library services, tax reimbursements, etc., well, at least I did not leave empty handed). People, take the redneck’s advice: get out of that country, move to the USA or go back to your home land. Life is way better here in the USA than in Canada... Earn more money, pay less taxes, get a much better weather and get also a little and elementary respect. And they don’t tell lies: they are not inviting people to come here, they don’t lie about your professional possibilities, you can expect difficulties to get into the professional jobs, they have rigorous and strict immigration and work policies. But in the end is the best you can do. People in the medicine, engineering and IT sectors can get TN or even H1B visas very easily if they are Canadian citizens, and that is the only real use for your Canadian passport.

WE HAVE A MORAL OBLIGATION!!!
We have a moral obligation to tell the truth, to spread the word about the major INTERNATIONAL SCAM that this country is committing. We have to stop our fellow professional countrymen from coming here. Please spread the word about the REAL face of this country and help to save lives and careers.

Will I ever go back to Canada? Not even for an off schedule flight detour, knock on wood... But if I do it will be in my own interest and knowing what I’ll find there.

Guillermo Alvarez
guillermoalvarez21@yahoo.ca

August 4,  2006

Hi,

This mail is in response to Mr.Jeff Strum's mail. As a Canadian who struggled to make a living in toronto, I was absolutely hurt at what Mr. Strum had to say.

After several years of applying for jobs and being turned down, I could make only one conclusion. DISCRIMINATION IS INSTITUTIONALIZED IN CANADA. Right from the politicians to grass root Canadian knows that immigrants have to kept away from good jobs. It is one of those state perpetrated human rights violation at massive scale, only comparable to Nazi regime. The Canadians also know if Immigrants are allowed a level playing turf, they will decimate the 'Locals'.

Just consider these facts:

1) Drug abuse the LOWEST among immigrant population.

2) Immigrant students perform way better than 'local' kids.

3) HIV cases at the lowest amongst immigrant population..

4) Immigrant population healthier than 'local' population...

Now whose money is being spent on Rehabilitation of Drug abusing, fast food loaded 'locals'.....? Isn't it our hard earned money...?

Mr.Strum says: 'Something is wrong with these people and as a Canadian who was BORN HERE, I resent these people bitching and wining. '

YES..Yours is the only message in this forum with F...'s and S...'s....Sure..The Canadians BORN HERE are certainly different..

When I moved from India, my salary in Canada was much lesser than what I was paid back home..all this at 1CAD=40Indian Rupees..

Recently I read an interview with Indian Civil Aviation Minister. He had said, that they ran short of Pilots and had to advertise in UK to fill up the vacansies..

A day will come when a Canadian wll apply for a job in India..Indian employers, make sure you ask for 'Indian experience' from them.

Just a Note to the web site owners...What you are doing today is history in making..Document as much as possible where one day, Canadians have to Apologise for what they do to immigrants.

Paul Raj
paulrajcanada@yahoo.com

August 4,  2006

Jeff Sturm's rant above about immigrants and immigration policies is
understandable, but misguided. It becomes a bit menacing too when one
notes that it's wrapped in a cloak of patriotism.

Jeff, patriotism can be a nice ideal, but it is also the last refuge of
the scoundrel. The issues you raise do not relate directly to
patriotism but to something much more basic called population growth.
The global population is growing quickly and while those
thirty-odd-million of us in Canada enjoy thousands of miles of unspoiled
wilderness, in which to kick our heels back, literally billions of
others live in countries that are bursting at the seams. People have to
live somewhere, and people have a right to move around to find the best
place for them to be as individuals. You cannot keep people locked
behind artificial borders forever.

We all know there is a battle on for our hearts and minds right now. We
know that globalisation is one of the issues this public relations
battle will determine. The word 'globalisation' is generally associated
with the 'new world order' thinking of the American military industrial
complex. But the truth is that no matter whether you side with the
elites or the proletariat, a form of globalisation is upon us; a new
world order is at hand, one way or another. People will come from the
Orient and other parts of the world to visit or live in Canada, just as
you will enjoy the same rights in their lands. Get over it.

Gary Chambers
garybob@telus.net

August 3,  2006

You must view this website to know what is going on with Canada immigration:

www.csip.ca

Nancy Salloum a middle eastern and Canadian by citizenship is fighting to
stop white Canadian discriminations against Ethnic immigration consultants,

She is suing the Canadian Society of immigration consultants for their
unethical behavior and false representation to their clients, however the
Government support CSIC misbehavior?

The Canadian Society of Immigration Practitioner
www.csip.ca
mail@csip.ca

August 2,  2006

Your site is full of sh*t and barking up the wrong tree!!! If I was you I would remove it before some one else does by force!!! If you don't like it here then don't come here and if you are here, then shut the f*ck up! Otherwise leave. I am sick of you losers trying to change this great nation to suit your needs. It isn't enough that our RCMP officers are allowed to wear turbans, a tradition that was shot down for one selfish individual. But now you want to change the way we higher workers here. Well let me tell you, there is a reason why those countries are considered third world nations. that goes for there medical and education systems. You come here, you work and earn your position in society by hard work. You just don't come here and "CLAIM" you have a degree and demand the high paying jobs. EARN IT!

Just like the Polish and Germans did when they came here. I can tell you this. I know a lot of Germans and polish immigrants here and they are very upset of the way the new immigrants are bitching these days. They did not build this nation, most that come here today are convenient canadians, using and raping our system for whatever they need. Good example of this is the "canadian lebenese" caught up in the war in lebenon. Why were they there in the first place?????? Yet as a canadian tax payer I have to pay to have them evacuated????? Something is wrong with these people and as a Canadian who was BORN HERE, I resent these people bitching and wining. If you want to come here, follow the rules, If you don't like that please move the the USA, and bitch down there, see how long you live opening your mouths down there!! If you come here earn your living and stfu! Your site is nothing but racist!!!

Signed
Jeff Sturm
A pissed off canadian!!!
jeffrwsturm@hotmail.com

July 21, 2006

Yes, there are much better countries to live in. I am from Sweden but I have
lived in Germany, U.S. and now Canada. The complaints you see on this
website are very much true and this was quite a shock to me who thought
Canada was way better than the U.S. for instance. I couldn't have been more
wrong, I didn't face any of these hardships in the U.S. and most immigrants
do prefer to live there.
I would say that most Western countries would be a better choice for you,
just try to find a similiar site to NotCanada.com in other countries, you
won't find it! I hope this tells you something.

I live in Toronto which is the biggest hell hole on earth, can't wait to get
out of here. My question to other immigrants in this forum: would it make a
difference to move to Vancouver? I have heard that Vancouver might be a
nicer city to live in but I would like to get some feedback from immigrants
in that area first.


Johanna B
Toronto, Ontario
jbn486@hotmail.com

July 08, 2006

Canada's problems are caused by an identity crisis, by that I mean they try to present to the world a level of living that is the highest. That's like owning a BMW but you can't afford the gas. Why does Canada try to compare to the rest of humanity? It's a trick, it's a form of brand naming, it's to rob those suckers who immigrate here in the name of prosperity only to discover that they are trapped in a land where the Government believes it's people have no business owning wealth. Beware of those who claim to spend in your interest, it's a big fat lie.

This country is a totalitarian state that hides behind the image of having a vested interest in the societal well-being. Medicine is not free in Canada, you pay through your teeth in taxes. For a country so blessed in natural resources, why are we so taxed? Who owns all that oil, diamonds , water and timber? You can see a trend where 20% of Canadians own 70% of the country, OUCH! Canadians are very greedy by nature and as you know poverty is a by-product of greed. So my message to anyone considering Canada as a future, think twice or pay the price in poverty and boredom.

Jean-Baptiste / Toronto
silkhobotai@hotmail.com

July 05, 2006

My name is Syed Hamidi I came to Canada in April 2005, by profession I am a pharmacist also having master’s degree in Business administration. I have about 6 years of experience as marketer in my country. I was very much comfortable in my country having good job and career prospects. In Canada I started my first job as an attendant at a gas station, at the same time I started one year course in business management and now I have finished my degree and still unemployed. Do I need to use the same language as most of us are using certainly not, criticizing the Canadian immigration is fair but not to the Canadians.

I believe there is frustration, disappointment, dissatisfaction and too many other problems but believe me this is not the way to show our frustration. First of all I am not agreeing to the opinion of most of the people that the Canadians are racist, discriminatory and arrogant. During my job as an attendant at gas station and even in college I never feel myself humiliated and disrespect, where most of my colleagues and teachers were Canadians.

Rather criticizing the Canadian immigration system and Canadians it is better to come up with the solution. Create a forum that approach to the higher official and give them the suggestion that how this system can can be better, send them thousand of emails and letters that might work but not this attitude. I understand that most of the people are living in miserable condition but how many of us are thinking about others. We all know not only in Canada almost all part of the world networking is very important to approach any opportunity and how many of us are trying to establish forums and groups to support each other. I know number of people having the same status as I have today, they got good jobs and they never call me back.

People are living in Canada for the last 10 years and criticizing Canada, does it make sense. Why they are in Canada if there is no opportunity, why they did not go back to their home countries the reason is system, do our countries having health and judicial like Canada. Job crisis is not only with immigrant also the Canadians are facing the same situation but do they speak out like us. There are problems in Canadian immigration system that need to address but believe me this society is far better than other societies.

It is better to advice new comers to come up with contingency planning rather instigating them NOT-CANADA.

Syed Hamidi
shakirhamidi@hotmail.com

July 04, 2006

Hi All,

I agree with you ALL. I immigrated to Canada with my family when I was 7
years old. After 18 years of staying in that place, I went back to my
motherland 'cause I can't feed for myself and family.

ALL OF YOU LISTEN UP!!!!!!
It's important to find a job and support yourself and your family. When
there's no money for you, there's no pity either. In canada, you won't land
a decent job even if you have work experience from NASA. I was unemployed
for 14 months after graduating back in 2003 and decided to move back to
Asia. I landed a job in a week and a half for my first job. A month later,
another company called me up with better remuneration and I leaped at the
chance. Chance, in Canada, is not for you, and nor is it random in the job
market.

LEARN YOUR ENGLISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is important so that's the advantage of living in a western world. I
speak native English and the door blew open for me so I am blessed. It's
just the most recognized language so everyone got to get that language down
pat, regardless of your race.

EDU-ma-CATION?????
Go to any engineering/science faculty in any canadian university. You'll
see 80-90% Asians / non-caucasians in those faculties. Students of these
faculties endure the hardest subjects but sure as hell don't get top dollars
for the fruit of their labour. Many of these talents and educated folks are
unemployed while some history major or high-school drop out has an office
job, no guff, I see that a lot in ottawa, the capital of canada. Honestly,
wouldn't you think a person that can graduate with an engineering degree can
"probably" do an office job even if they don't got no experience in an
office job. Many people just want a decent job and I'm pretty sure many of
them won't mind a decent office job, especially for you unemployed kids with
an engineering degree. The analogy is like this: You have built a space
rocket, but we can't hire you to build a bicycle because you don't have
experience in building bicycles.

Many of us just want a decent job, not some job flipping burgers while
snapping on your bubble gum.

WHAT TO DO???
This is what all of you should help each other do. Real-estate is still at
an enfant stage in many parts of canada. What us Asians do is we buy acres
of land and housing because population density is high in Asia. Yes, many
Asians are rich and with the China boom, Asians will get richer (:(, but i'm
not). My boss, who's a mid-level supervisor bought 2 houses in vancouver
and he doesn't even live there. His boss, the department manager, also
bought several houses which are vacant. They go to these houses when they
take time off for vacation. Property development, ladies and gentlemen, is
most profitable so claim your land in canada. No need to feel bitter, just
be business-minded. Money talks and everyone can come out in a win-win
situation. canada got fresh air and lots of land so it's not all bad. It's
that simple. However, DO NOT try commercial property because gov't
regulation is strict and your chances to bid for commercial property is not
favourable if you're non-caucasians.

Peace and nothin' but love,
Pete-ski/Peter Ng
moody_blues53@hotmail.com

June 29, 2006

I was about to apply for immigration when i discovered this website. Although i was aware that the information about Canada provided by the official websites was too good to be true, i would have never guessed that the reality could be so different.

Part of my immigration plan was to study a master's degree in Canada, but after reading the cases of others who have done the same, i came to the conclusion that it would not help me. I can only thank this website for letting me know the sad reality many professionals are facing these days. I decided to stay in my country, where at least i`m being treated as a professional, instead of immigrating to a country that clearly doesn't need any more immigrants.

I have already told many other people about this website, you have saved a lot of money and suffering to many ecuadorian families, so thanks again!

I want to say to all canadians, that i don`t think ill of them, i still consider their country as a great one, i just wish they could make their government stop inviting people they don`t want.

Carlos
carlosegb@hotmail.com
Ecuador

June 23, 2006

Hello,

I have taken steps to spread the news about www.notcanada.com in another forum - very popular among Bengalis - especially for people in Calcutta and for Bengalis outside of Calcutta. It is at www.kolkataweb.com/forum - in here, one needs to type "immigration" (without the quotes) and hit 'Enter'. I have remained there ½ anonymous as 'snc' and the article has heading, "to-be immigrants of Canada". It received wide response. Someone from New Delhi even called me over phone from there and decided NOT to immigrate here at the last minute, literally. He is a bachelor, never married and doing an engineering job as a pipeline design engineer. He thanked me profusely for letting him know about the reality here.

I'd let you know once I post similar messages in other forums across the world. I'd definitely take advantage of the internet.

My best wishes and regards,

Satindra
satindra_c@hotmail.com

June 22, 2006

This is in response to the (previous) post. We can high light what we see in Canada. You are right such conditions can and do exit in other countries too, but there is a difference. I recently watched a Dutch video which is shown to new immigrants. They are very frank and honest about what new comers should expect in Netherlands. But Canadians run a scam, its an international scam which is meant to deprive people of their hard earned money.

Why do Canadians portray their country as being one of the best? So as to lure poor immigrants and their money. They should tell the truth to the people who want to come here. I still remember my immigration interview. The lady was asking so many questions about my education, experience etc. I would rather advice Canadian Immigration officials to ask relevant questions such as:

*Do you have safety shoes?
*Can you lift 80kg and more for up to 8 and more hours?
*Can you work in cold conditions?
*Are you willing to do night shifts?

First they make excuse of canadian education, and then experience. This lead me to obtain my second masters from one of their top universities called U of T. But now they are harping on canadian experience. I spent few years in states, got my first masters from there and a job too. If you want to immigrate, go to states. Its a real land of opportunities. I am also thinking of moving to states or my own country . . . hopefully by the end of this year. Do not make the mistake which we made of coming to this living hell called canada. Go any where else but Canada .I am sure you'll be better off staying in your own country.

Faraz Ahmed
faraz_70s@yahoo.com

June 22, 2006

How to become a great cab driver in Canada

1. Come with dreams, hopes and the wonderful feeling of the Great Canadian Dream.

2. Bring money. About $C18,000 will do, for about six months.

3. Get your cab driver's licence. Make sure you also know how to operate the following items:

Paint brush - Canadians love to paint their places, you gonna do it

Shovel - Canadians love their gardens, you gonna dig, and do it You also gonna clear ice and snow for $8/hr... -30C

Bag - Canadians love their stores, you gonna tell them what's on sale $.05 cents a flyer and your bag gonna weigh a lot

Drive - Canadians are big time booze hounds, you gonna drive them around a lot, they'll rob you, piss on you, sometimes they kill you

Call Center - Canadians get pissed off about everything. You gonna be nice to them

Walk - Don't walk in their neighborhoods. Their dog gonna bark at you

Stick to these areas: NE Calgary, Downtown East Vancouver, Inner City Toronto

Don't Talk too much. You're uppity. They don't like that. After all they're British. They made this country, it's an automatic upgrade for them... not for you

Learn Deal with it. Get along with the Canadians who are good people and who have no grudge against anybody. But speak out and stand up against economic apartheid, systemic Canadian discrimination

Grant Buckannon
grant_buckannon@yahoo.com

June 22, 2006

Hello!
First of all, i'd like to thank you for your informative site that provides a very different opinion on immigration in Canada.
I am currently living in Belgium and was thinking about immigrating to canada when i came across your site.

I have one question I was hoping you could answer:

I was looking over your list of "8 reasons not to immigrate to canada" and a question came accross my mind: is it better anywhere else?
Many of the same problems you list (except for the weather :) are found in most western nations also. In America i have heard there is much more racism than in Canada and in europe there is much more violence from ethnic tension than in Canada (there have been murders of arab immigrants recently in belgium that caused many problems).
My question to you is, you reccomend that people do NOT immigrate to Canada, but where do you reccomend they go instead? Are other countries better than Canada in the respects you mention? i'm not certain they are. Are you reccomending people stay in their home country?
I'm not criticizing your site, i'm just very curious and you seem to be educated on the subject. My initial impression is that most of your 8 reasons to not immigrate to canada could be translated to "Do not immigrate anywhere"

Please answer me soon,

G. V. Praet
Geoffvp @ hotmail.com

June 18, 2006

The creator of this website, carribeanmedicine.com had a communication with me already through another forum, that is: www.canadaimmigrants.com . Now I had a chance to look into a greater depth at notcanada.com.

You have done a great job. I cannot tell you how relieved I feel after going through your website. You have taken great, great pains and things are arranged meticulously to show the rest of the world what it is like immigrating to canada.

For a long time I was thinking of making a movie of about ½ to 1 hr duration depicting the life here of a typical immigrant, highly qualified and educated but has ended up working as a factory worker or a pizza delivery guy. Half of the duration of the movie could portray a typical day where his experience and observation and the rest half of the film could show a typcal snapshots showing his failed attempts in getting an interview calls, career endeavours.

But I must tell you that your website has taken care of that all.

Like all immigrants, I am also under severe financial constraints yet, I feel like I should contribute financially to the welbeing of your website - we must see that the message reaches thousands and thousands of ill fated immigrants and we must keep this website alive.

My deep appreciation once again.

I also invite you to my website: http://tinyurl.com/dr5jb

Regards,

Satindra Chakrabarti
satindra@hotmail.com

June 14, 2006

Hi,
I want also to share my frustration.
All written in the 8 reasons is true. It is not enough to describe our strain, constant humiliation, unacceptance.

I have a PhD in materials science. I did my PhD in Finland. Originally I am from Bulgaria - Eastern Europe.
When I first moved to Canada there were thousands of reasons not to talk to me - accent, PhD from Europe, lack of Canadian experience. Well, I got a one year post doc - below the standard of payment and guess what?
The story for the naked king. This is what they are. An underdeveloped, racist breed, who are afraid for their bread – this is why they are keeping us out of their lives. They want us out. They want all for themselves and their families. They take one or two from time to time for the appearance: just to prove that my words are not true.

Some of you here speak about Canadian education - well after having a student loan of 20000 and more, they still do not hire you, do they? So they want more (money).

Like me - 10 years ago I was young and my specialty not in demand. 10 years after that I am old and my specialty rare or NOT exact match.
You know what - these people are fruitless trees: they have no morals, no conscience and they are stupid. Because if they are smart they will need every person who comes to Canada. If they are smart they will develop - not wait on the US.
They simply do not deserve us. The worse thing is that our children became like them - callous, tired, cruel, calculating.

And they are small minded and prejudiced - when someone immigrates from Austria, or Germany - wow, they get completely different salaries and they are treated differently.

See, but I have worked since 2000 in many countries outside Canada including Germany, Austria. I know the level of the science there - not that it is low. The point is, that we, people from Eastern Europe are the masterminds in Western Europe - we do their work, ideas, all.
Naturally our work is stolen there because we are treated like garbage in our own country.
That means they do not need qualified people, they are simply racists, small minds and prejudiced people.

The best for 10 years Canadian life is that I was "invited" for an interview after 5 months talks. The answer is below. All was false, make up, Canadian generosity - to show me some attention so that I have hope - unrealistic hope, a theatre. And THAT was the BEST I got here. After that I can go on a pension (without money).

Karen Paul
www.sitekreator.com/karen1704
dr_kpaul@hotmail.com

Dear Karen,

After much careful thought and consideration, unfortunately, I will
not be able to hire you into my group at this time. While your talents
and skills are very strong, there just is not enough of a match between
your capabilities and background and the current needs of my group. I
do know that you could be of help to us in terms of characterization of
our materials, but this is an area that I more or less already have
people trained in, and also not where my present funds should be
targeted.

I very much enjoyed meeting you and will keep my ears and eyes open for
opportunities for you, so that you can get back into the research area
as soon as possible. It might be an idea for you to check out the NINT
webpage, as they may have some openings in areas more related to your
background and interests. Also, if something changes in my research
portfolio and a project should come up in my group which better suits
your interests (and this could happen, one never knows), I will contact
you at that time.

I wish you all the best in your next steps and I hope that we meet
again in the near future. If I can be of help to you in terms of
providing any advice, or in terms of professional or technical issues,
please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely

Viola Birss
birss@ucalgary.ca

June 09, 2006

I am delighted to see a site like this, I am another misled immigrant to
Canada.

I would like to show my appreciation for Matt Grewall, for his "list."
Reason being that it's so similar to my experiences with the people here in
Canada. It was though he was describing my daily encounters with these sad
people. I, like many others, am stuck here and looking for way out. I know
my time will come and I will be out of this country. Those who've left
before me informed me of how they feel better both mentally and physically
after leaving Canada.

I would like point out, time and again, to potential immigrants to Canada
that this "list" is but a taste of what life is like for us immigrants in
Canada. I think the owners/operators of this site should be rewarded for
their efforts. They are simply doing an excellent job and are saving
people's lives by the priceless information they provide, they are going
against the grain, counteracting to the enormous wealth and resources of the
Canadian Govt which continues to spread its disingenuous message of making
Canada seem as the "land of opportunity" and "land of milk and honey" to
would-be immigrants.

If you are an immigrant and planning to immigrate to Canada, you have been
misled and you are making a grave error. You are squandering your life and
the life of your children, do not ruin your life, do not bring your kids to
this country. We have made that mistake and we are letting others know, we
have the experience of being an immigrant in Canada. You are better off by
helping your home country, you are an asset there and you will be a
second-class (treated as such) in Canada.

I loathe this country. I am here by circumstance, but not for long. My
credentials aren't worthless simply because the racist Canadians think so.
My message to those who are still here is that you don't have to take the
combative approach, it's simply not your country so why do you care about
this country? Or what the racist Canadians have to say or think of you?

Best Wishes,
B. Luke
avoidcanada@hotmail.com

June 06, 2006

I am so glad to see a website like this because I am so sick and tired of the Canadian government dumping 250,000+ immigrants into this country year after year! Immigrants feel betrayed by Canada! How about Canadians being betrayed by there own government! The problems start because the Canadian government officials become detached from reality because they live in a world of luxury themselves and do not related to the problems of survival that even Canadian born Canadians face everyday! The immigration system works against immigrants? What about Canadians born and raised here? I looked for an apprenticeship for years and it was easier for a journeyman trades person to get hired from Germany at the local pulp mill at top dollar than for me to find an apprenticeship!

Why should industry waste money training a young Canadian when it can hire a journeyman from Europe? Does the average Canadian want and support the Canadian governments immigration policy? NO WE DO NOT!! would you like your government to dump hundreds of thousands of people into your country each year year after year to compete with you for jobs? To destroy your social programs through family reunification that brings elderly parents and grand parents into Canada and into our medicare system? We give away billions of dollars in foreign aid yet we have thousands of our own people living in the streets, this is how are own government treats us! why would any immigrant expect better? If you are a professional stay home and build your own country the majority of Canadians in spite of what our out of touch government says do not want immigrants to make this big mess a bigger mess.

Ken C
Nanaimo, BC
kenc2020@shaw.ca

June 04, 2006

Guidelines For New Canadians

Are you a "New Canadian"? That's the term used by "Established Canadians", to refer to you. How should you behave?

"The List":

1. Be Nice, because the Canadians have done you a favor by letting you into the country. You; Third World Guy/Gal are an inferior breed of person... so behave.

2. Play along. You are really here because they put up with you. You don't belong.

3. Don't talk about America. Canadians hate America. Just be quiet, pretend to love the Canadian hockey teams. Sip a Tim Hortons coffee
and be happy that the world revolves around the Great SuperPower called Kanada.

4. Get used to poverty and indifference. Bread and Circuses while you starve. They really don't care. You are better off driving a cab in N.Y.C.

5. Why are you here? You should leave because Kanada hates you. Are you complaining? You don't have the right to complain. The reason is that Kanada has a problem... You need to be the "Brown SahiB Taxi Driver". And the Leeches who will teach you "Proper Canadian English" and "MultiCulturalism", are the ones who complain the LOUDEST on this forum.

5. Final Solution. Get out, if you are here. Stay away... if you're thinking of coming here. Kanada is an Export Brand. It's something you appreciate from a distance... So enjoy it as an Export Brand.

Matt Grewall
Grand Prairie, Alberta
mtmx@hotmail.com

May 31, 2006

Thank you very much for your website. It have been so very good for me. I came to Canada two years ago as a professional in Instructional Technology, Masters and all the works as they say. After numerous job applications, some paying way below my last salary, and not one single job interview, I came upon your website and it has helped me to understand my situation much better. This is important because if your don't know what you have gotten yourself into and what you are experiencing, you remain unsure about how to solve the problem.

After reading about the experiences of other immigrant professionals in Canada, I have a clearer idea now of what I am involved in and what I can expect from more fruitless attempts to kick-start a career here. Given the facts, I can now make better strategic decisions for my life so that I do not end up one of those whose careers were buried in this country.

Thank you, thank you and thank you again for this website. My children who depend upon me to provide a decent standard of living for them, also thank you.Keep up the good work.

Katherine
Toronto, Ontario
kristaal6340@yahoo.com

May 30, 2006

I just read your top reasons not to come to Canada. While I agree with many of the things you have said- it's true that immigrants have great difficulty finding work in their field, there are problems with the health care system, etc, - a few of your statements are simply false or insultingly twisted.

First of all, the weather. The weather in Canada is NOT the worst in the world. Have you never heard of Siberia? Antarctica? Shall I go on? I understand you are not happy about Canada, but don't exaggerate- get your facts straight!

Second, your claim that Canadians pay high taxes in order to support "hockey watching, beer drinking welfare bums" is patently false and makes me so angry I would slap your face if you were in front of me. You obviously know nothing about how the system works here. How do you think we pay for those hospitals and doctors, even if there are problems? How do we pay for our schools, libraries, roads, sewage, garbage collection, government services (like FREE ENGLISH CLASSES FOR IMMIGRANTS!!!!!!!)? Yes, Canada is very expensive, and yes there are problems. I had a lot of trouble finding a decent job after I graduated from university here too. However, please remember that most of the countries that immigrants are coming from have SERIOUS problems with government corruption, and virtually no services, and no help for people who are unemployed or sick. You have to weigh the benefits against the costs. If you only care about money, and you aren't willing to pay for a non-corrupt system and benefits like clean water and a decent transportation system, and a decent criminal justice system, and a clean, safe place to live (no honour killings, gang rapes sanctioned by tribal councils, civil war, landmines, sectarian and religious fighting...)then you should stay in your country or go to the United States.

That brings me to my last point. Canada is NOT the same culture as the US. We believe in a social safety net, fair play, freedom, and not guns. Americans believe in world domination, and every man for himself. It sounds to me like you are an American.

Once again, I'd like to say that I agree with many parts of your list. There are some serious problems here, and some specific to immigrants. However, if I had the choice of this country or a third world, disease, dirt and corruption infested war zone, I'd choose Canada in a second. There is racism here, but not the kind that gets you killed. You need to learn tolerance and you need to open your eyes. If you don't like it, then leave, but don't lie.

Thank you,
janice betts
tutor_esl1@hotmail.com

May 28, 2006

Wow, what I read on these threads makes me wince. Wince, because they are so true. I can really go through with my whole story of what and how my career went downhill after I left USA for Canada. If prospective immigrants are reading this, do not take the comments lightly. these are close to the truth. All the goodness that Canada has is nullified if you cant get a half decent job and end up in labor/warehouse jobs where you have to take orders from high school dropouts and work ungodly shift hours for literally pennies.

If I had read such comments when I was thinking of coming here, I would never even have applied. 5 years ago such sites did not exists, but maybe skilled immigrants in such large numbers in desperate situation did not exist too.

Sorry, this might hurt some Canadians, but it is the truth. I disagree that racism is at the core of this issue. It might be, but I havent yet felt it.

There are JUST NOT ENOUGH jobs here. That leads to all other problems like nepotism, excessive screening etc. The employer has a very big upper hand.

That, because of no jobs the skilled immigrants from 3rd world (visible minorities) countries end up en masse in temp jobs makes it look like racism, but its just the job market playing out.

There is also a limited amount that can be done to stop this as you cannot stop the teeming millions in 3rd world countries from coming here. But we can increase awareness for the skilled/qualified immigrant about what may happen once he/she gets here. Hopefully they will choose not to come.

Recently I did apply for fulltime jobs in a couple of warehouses. Guess what they rejected me saying I was over qualified. You see the dilemma here. And they interviewed me like it was an executive position at a top company. Absolutely RIDICULOUS.

The Canadians dont care about this. Period. Not and then or at election time they will acknowledge it and come up with some lame solutions, but thats about it.

Hopefully people reading these messages understand the issues and not make the mistakes that many of us had made.

IF you do choose to come to Canada, be prepared for a drastic change. Once here make a decision of whether you WANT TO STAY here in the long run and DO WHATEVER IT TAKES to become successful or UPGRADE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS or LEAVE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Do not procrastinate. Weeks, months and years will fly by and by that time you will have lost everything.

You have been warned, Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) and all the rest.

Syed Haider
syedh1232001@yahoo.com

May 18, 2006

Hello

I came across your website when it was mentioned in a local magazine here called Cobblestones Magazine.

I am a son of an Immigrant. Dad is from India. Despite the fact that he had struggles earlier in his career he did manage to break through in his field. But for the other generations to follow and their children... forget it.

Unfortunate this nightmare is the case for Me and my sister.
My sister (hopefully) will have her H1-B Visa and can apply and obtain her Green Card for the US and will be set for life. She is a doctor.

As for me, it's been a struggle for me since 1990 when I got my first Bachelors Degree. I really feel for immigrants too when they come in and get the same b.s. when applying for jobs. For me it's either not enough experience, and been stuck in low paying take what you can get jobs. And I still get taxed to death plus milked of Unemployment Insurance. I had a nasty experience with Unemployment Insurance when I went to apply for it years ago when I lost my job. Turned out the job I was doing was considered a "self employed" (even when working for an insurance company) and refused it.

Of course when the Government had programs to get people in school in work programs for both work experience and employment, they discriminated on age, plus was not for all Canadians unless they were in Unemployment Insurance.

Unemployment Insurance is hard to collect if you've not been with a firm for too long a period these days or if not working in a blue collar slave job.

It's disturbing that in the United States with my background I can easily land a job, but with no green card they won't deal with my visa issues.

I ended up working last year in Asia. Despite the fact that the employers there ripped me off by terminating my contract since they didn't want to fullfill their obligation to me at the end of the severance pay and free airline ticket back, themoney I did make was good, and got to keep 95% of my hard earned money.

In Canada almost 50% goes to taxes and useless social programs which I won't even use or will be turned down for despite that I paid into them.
Besides most of those social programs were created for the governments' pals to give them a cushy job, and created a bigger bureaucracy. Therefore these bums sitting behind a desk doing nothing are living off my money.

Only jobs I had here in Canada have been pizza delivery driver, door to door canvasser, high pressure sales job where there was always employees coming in and out which paid only commissions, and low level call center job.
Even a degree from an American University and with honours doesn't cut in here in Canada.

Today I am still out of a job, trying for the USA or I may end up back in Asia teaching English again.

Thanks for hearing me out.

Jamil Ahsan
jamilahsan@yahoo.com

May 16, 2006

Hi,

Thank you very much for your site that reveals many facts about Canada that many people are not aware of.

I am a Canadian citizen living in Toronto for 5 years. I have been doing survival jobs for three years and eventually I found my real job (Software Development) two years ago after sending my resume 6000 times in respond to job advertisements !

I would like to share my opinion about one of the worst job agencies in Canada; Sure Jobs Canada.

I believe that this organization is run by a bunch of crocks. They call themselves sure job Canada. Unfortunately any new comer can find their advertisement in popular news papers that is accessible to all new immigrants in human resource Canada centers. The advertisement is printed at the first page and the name of agency is very deceiving; sure jobs Canada. They want to induce the wrong fact that they can guarantee finding a job for those poor immigrants that their first and most important goal is job and are not aware that this country in full of these kind of organizations that can simply perform their dirty plans to make money by cheating new immigrants who believe Canada is paradise.

If you read their job search contract carefully and think about it you will understand that they are crock.

1) First of all any organization that is in job search business should not seek any money from those who are looking for job. Because the company that hires the job seeker will pay to the agency who has found the employee.

2) If you read their contract it is mentioned that sure job Canada does not guarantee finding a job within a limited amount of time ! It means after 10 years of signing the contract if they don’t find a job, you can not protest them. It means that if you sign such a contract you are a stupid person!

3) Once in a while the email to you a job opportunity that is absolutely irrelevant to the candidate’s experience. Because they do not read job seekers resume at all (if they wan to do that they can not make enough money)
They send a limited number of jobs to all candidates regardless of their experience and back ground. And these jobs are usually very cheap jobs that any one can find without asking help from a job search agencies.

I appreciate if you dedicate some section of your web site to this story or other similar stories about job agencies and even colleges and universities that their only goal is to make money.

Thank you again,
p. pey
pey321 @ yahoo.com

May 15, 2006

You know, I read these pictations of immigrants and wonder. What made them come in the first place? Was it not their own country that was telling them that life was better here? Was it not their own country telling them that they were not wanted? Canada is won of the most freeist countries in the world. They are the only country that will take anyone. That said, you have to make your own accomplishments, and this means that you have to work hard. I here that everyone is complaining about Canadians being racists, well the way I see it, is as follows: when its not going well for a person of other nationality, the first words out of their mouth is that you are being a racist.

Well maybe if you treat a person with respect and of equal nationality whether white or black or any other combination, you may have a better chance of making friends and business partners. Canada is made up of so many different combinations of cultures, that there is going to be conflict. The UNITED STATES is even worse in this matter. If you become an American, you are automatically enrolled in their list of being either deported or enlisted into their so called voluntary armed forces. You do not have your own choice. If Canada had 300 million people, they would be in a similar kind of category. Since we only have 30 million, we don't have the same influence or problems.

As we read and write, the resources in USA are running out. They have depleted their forestry industry to the point that they have had to come to Canada to try and start depleting our resource. This also is a fact for water supply also.. Yes the better life comes at a gruelling cost, but everyone is to busy blaming everyone else for only their individual problems, instead of joining together and making both Countries an equal and satisfying place to begin or improve the quality of everyone's life.

Kent McGovarin
Ontario, Canada
www.kenwest.com@sympatico.ca

May 15, 2006

Hi there,
Thank you for this great website, at least I don't feel so lonely know. I've
been here for almost 2 years. I decided to study an Accounting program
sponsored by Emploi-Quebec here in Montreal, since I couldn't find a decent
job according to my previous experience in my country (purchasing and
inventory control). I've also completed a certificate in Purchasing and
Inventory Control at Concordia University Continuing Education Centre.

All my grades are A or A+. However, I can't find a decent job here, not even an
internship (yes, working for free, no pay at all). Nobody offers me a job. I
don't know what else to do. Is it because of my accent? I'll always have an
accent, like any other immigrant here. I've never felt so humiliated,
miserable, and depressed in my whole life. Just like a pariah. I'd like to
jump in to the tracks at the "métro de Montréal". Thank you, Canada, for
ruining my life!!!

jorge suarez
Montreal, Quebec
jsd76@hotmail.com

May 12, 2006

1.Canada really can’t even digest there own graduates. Just count the number of Canucks working in the US alone. Most of them even take immigration there. How can Canada invite professionals from the other countries. Canada wants to increase the population , but don’t want to invite illiterates. Here job market is ruled by the employers. Both they know that many others waiting on the queue to replace the disgruntle employees. Employees are liability to them, not asset. Is Cd. Govt. simply raising their fund with the initial money the immigrants bring? On the other hand, they basically remain as a burden to the country by living in social with free mediacare/childcare. So, how much the govt. is really earning?

2.No wonder that Canada is a graveyard for the professionals. Canada really do not want to spend anything for research or new innovations like US/Europe or Australia.As a result job market is never increasing. Just search any website for any products (starting from e-bay to high-tech), you rarely will hit Canadian site. Jobs do not grow in the air or tree unless it is not created. Canada rather is more interested to spend for so called welfare funds which is nothing but bull sheet. Bureacracy here is also unthinkable that refrains you from starting your own business.

3.The entire country still can’t act like an integrated part. Practically Quebec is considered as a separate country. You will rarely see cars with different provincial plates.You have to take citizenship oath by the name of the Queen. Astonishing to find that Canadians even are not ashamed of this at all. Population is so multi-cultured that nobody really thinks about the country as his/her own. Job market is so meager that nepotism plays the greatest role in job hunting beyond all of your qualifications. I got my 2nd Masters from the U of T and didn’t get any interview even thereafter. One of my Pakistani course met (graduated 2 semesters ahead of me with the same fate) was telling me one day that after getting his BS in Pakistan, he got 2 jobs in a week, and in Canada?

4.The self proclaimed high quality of living is a quagmire. This may be partly true for the locally born well established folks. Not for the immigrants. Social security, free medicare all turn out to be meaningless for an unemployed. I know that living cost in Canada is cheaper than Europe but higher than US My Toronto apt. Standard was unthinkably poor with respect to a western country with higher rent. 40 mins waiting for elevator. Whereas in US we r renting banglo shaped 2 bedroom apt. for less. My car insurance is now 1/6th.Canadian customer service is very poor and totally unprofessional in nature. My apt. management used to look at me with a frown. We used to wait for few months to fix my problems after telling them many times. They will not have any problem for the future residents to grab my apt. This country really developed a system where customers have less right. Do not confuse with the term ‘Average Living”. In the US, average living may be lower than Canada, (only just because so called free medicare) but I can tell that as a professional, living standard is way higher in the US.

5.Immigrants in nowhere else are so frustrated as they are in Canada. Other countries, as immigrant, if you have local degree, job is warranted. I agree that most of the professionals from other countries need to upgrade their skill to fit in the market. But in Canada, there is no straight way to do that. Even if you are lucky to get admission in the schools, after graduating it is most likely that you will never get a professional job. Bitter truth is that, there are very very few jobs in the market and those are basically grabbed by the undergrad Co-op guys and by internal hiring (nothing but dirty nepotism). I know there are lots of successful immigrants in Canada. But the opposite is more pronounced. Just see the interviews of the Ontario/Federal immigration ministers with the CBC TV posted in this site. They are not immigrants and immigrants didn’t create that program. Those who are frustrated about immigrant’s whinning, just try to realize that they were invited here by your govt. They didn’t came here as refugees. It is not very easy for them to return. They sold their properties, left their well established jobs back home. Now it is too late to return. It should also be a moral responsibility for you to have sympathy for them, as your country is responsible for ruining their life by enticing them.

If you ask any Canadian about US, you’ll find that he hates US. But you will be surprised to know that he travels to US every year, but didn’t visit any other province of Canada. They always portray US as a racist, “low living standard”, full of crime. If you ask any average American about Canada, he wouldn’t tell you anything bad about Canada. This is the difference. It is a good Canadian fun to criticize the Yankee.

Adil Shah
Jacksonville, Florida, USA
shah77@yahoo.com

May 12, 2006

Hello, I'm a 33 year old Canadian, born and raised in Sudbury, ON. I am educated as a Medical Radiation Technologist, I graduated in september, 2000. Just want everyone to know, I am ashamed to be Canadian, as I had no choice but to leave Canada if I wanted to earn a decent income.

As an x-ray technologist, I was forced to live and work in a large city(Toronto), as job availability is non-existent in rural Ontario. OPSEU, our labor union, made a decision to pay a flat rate for our profession across the province, which essentially caused me to have to leave Canada for the US, where Wages fluctuate with the cost of living, as they should. In Sudbury, I had a 900 square foot 1 bedroom apartment, and was paying only $300/month for rent INCLUDING Heat, Hydro, AND Cable.

My wage in Toronto was the same as people living in much smaller communities with 1/3 the cost of living. When I moved to Toronto, my rent went up to $1000/month, my car insurance tripled from $60 a month to $180. I hacked it out for 3 long years, trying to make ends meet, but with my huge student loans, and payments exceeding $600 a month(roughly 1/6 of my net income) I was forced into making a decision to either stay in Canada and be poor, or go to the US and make some decent money.

TAXES!!! Add up all of the taxes we pay, including Income Tax, Sales tax and GST, and all those hidden taxes like Gasoline, Alcohol and Cigarette taxes, and I believe you lose more than half of your annual income - and they dare call it FREE healthcare!!?
Here in the US, I pay roughly 35% total tax.

Canada has a lot of issues to deal with, and if I had my choice, I would gladly give up my citizenship for the opportunity to live and work elsewhere.
I just feel it is a great shame for young Canadians and Immigrants to be forced to leave the country to be successful.

Aaron Runnalls
San Diego, CA, USA
aaronrunnalls@hotmail.com

April 29, 2006

Another Canadian Tired. Even after going back to school and getting Canadian diplomas, I’ve never managed to find a job that is equivalent to the one I had in Morocco (IT Analyst in the banking industry). I’m fully bilingual. In addition to my engineering degree from France I have successfully completed an MBA and a Bsc in Computer Science from Canadian Universities. Guess what? All those credentials are good for one thing in this so-called eldorado: filling dead end jobs for the rest of your lifetime in exchange for peanuts.

Believe it or not, quality of life in my third world country is by far better than this.

The problem is neither the diploma nor the work experience. It’s racial by all means.

There is a huge gap between the immigration policy and what everyday people want. The Canadian government hires bright immigrants in masses while Canadians view them as a threat to the quality and the durability of their jobs.

Whatever you do, you’re always to blame. When it’s not the diploma, it’s the Canadian work experience. When it’s not the work experience it’s the accent. As soon as you start to complain about your unfair condition, you’re asked kindly to leave. Immigration to Canada is an ongoing dead end loop that hides a very subtle form of racism.

After four years of frustration and disappointment, I came to the conclusion that the Canadian citizenship is good for one thing: quitting Canada as soon as you get your passport. I think it’s about the time to bring this immigration nightmare to a halt.

Can’t Nada, shame on you

Kamal
Gatineau-Hull, QC
chochochoco2003@yahoo.ca

April 27, 2006

Hi,

I am a civil Engineer, 40 who has landed in Canada and returned soon, without any success. I am indeed very unfortunate for not having come across your web site prior to my landing if not I would have saved a lot of time, money and misery that followed.

I had a very good job in Dubai, which I resigned and have lost nearly 8 months of my peak career needless to mention the trauma my family had to undergo with the relocation which is still not yet finished. I have now managed to get a job back in Middle East and am in the process of settling back to a stable environment. Looking back I feel that the govt of Canada portrays a very bright picture of Canada, and more over I for one went in with about with the application directly and had no consultants to advise properly, not that these consultants do give an unprejudiced fair opinion.

Your web supports my decision and I am glad I made the quick decision to leave rather than to stay back and suffer.

Regards,

paul mathew
p_paul_mathew@hotmail.com

April 16, 2006

Hello, I would like to congratulate you for your informative website. I think it's about time people found out the true colors of Canada - a racist country with the most ignorant people one could ever come across.

I grew up here and plan to move out, have been here for so long due to circumstances out of my control. I highly suggest you all move out as it's the only and best solution to the misery that exists here for none whites (and for some whites)

Racism in jobs, housing, schools and the dirty looks they give you when you walk down the street are all part of daily life for minorities here in Canada.

For anyone who's thinking about coming to Canada - DON'T! Only misery based on chronic poverty, chronic racism, horrible weather, out of control cost of living, ignorant people who feel as though being white is being superior to all others, etc, etc. I could go on and on about the reasons why one shouldn't immigrate to this sad country but the content on this website could provide further more information on that.

Wish you all the very best in leaving Canada.

P.S. here's an interesting link I recently found:
http://www.queensjournal.ca/articlephp/point-vol133/issue40/news/lead1

M. Yuri.
sshire2@yahoo.com

April 01, 2006

The first reason on the list of the Top 8 Reasons not to Immigrate to Canada is unfortunately terribly true and embarrassingly so to a person born in this country. Much has been said about the discriminatory and dishonest immigration system. I don't understand why the Canadian government instructs Canadian embassies everywhere to pretend that professionals are welcome here. And I agree, if Canada wanted labourers, why the heck not ask for them. I read one of the letters at canadaimmigrants.com that Canada is only a good place to go for those from other countries who either lost their standard of living prior to coming here or those who never had a good standard of living.

I draw your attention to the reason of worst weather - you must know we are not in control of the weather. At least there's insurance for acts of god in your insurance to pay for this (after of course, filling out about l0 forms in triplicate but I digress). At least we don't have cyclones - yet. Other countries have those as well as constant tornados and mud slides. With global warming, we have already seen bad weather everywhere. I thought the state government of Louisiana and federal government of US particularly brutal to those who lost everything in the recent hurricane Katrina and had the gall to blame the poorest people who by virtue of being poor, did not have vehicles, to evacuate. And their health care system is worse than ours. (Mind you, we are getting worse, as well.) I live in Alberta now and in winter, the temperature dips to -40 for about two weeks straight and that is very hard to take. And then we get spring snowstorms in March and April. If nice weather is your only criteria, one should move to Australia. (perhaps not this week due to the cyclones) I was born in Nova Scotia and lived there for 20 some years and the winter weather was brutal, lots of rain and snow, hail etc. etc. But the scenery was breathtaking and I think made up for it.

No culture - goodness, did the people who claimed that live in Toronto, Ontario? If so, I might tend to agree. But come to the Atlantic provinces for culture and small towns in every province. In Nova Scotia, you will find cod tongues, scallops and every shell fish and other fish plus lobster. You will find French Canadians whose culture is preserved and celebrated; you will find Hungarian and Ukranian cultures strong in Alberta. You will find Indian cultures on both east and west coasts. it is a wonderful mosaic. We resist American domination which is hard when it is so big and so close by and I am sure one day, we will be invaded for our good humour and our politeness.

Very high taxes - well no PST in Alberta or Manitoba. If it's any consolation, GST and PST haven't been around any longer than 20 years. You must pay 26% of your paycheque in taxes to the government for social programs, to help pay for those on welfare and on unemployment while they look for work or for those unable to find work. Who else will help them if the government does not? Many other countries do not have this safety net and people are on the street if they cannot find work or if they are old, there are no places they can live with people who are not family to look after them. In USA, if you don't have money for health insurance, you do not get medical care, period. I have been on welfare and unemployed a few times and was quite grateful for the assistance. We also pay a portion toward health care and our employer pays too.

We contribute to Canada pension Plan so that when we retire, we can get money from the government to live on. As for giving it to beer-drinking, hockey watching bums, those are the chances you take when you give money to those who through no fault of their own are out of work. Some people are disabled and although the federal government also gives them a pension to live on, the government also covers some medication and equipment costs. Like you, I would like to get my entire salary but there is no way you or I would be supported when we are unable to work etc. if our taxes did not help to pay for those things. Lots of people abuse the system but more benefit and while there are some watchdogs, we can't police every penny people get to ensure they qualify.

Health Care Crisis - I don't have time to complain about this system and I need to watch my blood pressure...

Anyway, just wanted to respond to the list. I have given the website out to friends in Serbia and have told church groups who sponsor families to advise them of the many pitfalls of the immigration policy of Canada. those of us who live here are as good a people as in any other country. Please do not judge the people by the stupid immigration policy. You have an excellent website. I hope potential immigrants do more about this mess than refusing to come to Canada and write letters of protest like those of us who live under this regime.

Karen MacLeod
KMacLeod@dthr.ab.ca

April 01, 2006

Hi Editor,

I agree that we immigrants do not travel many thousand miles to be bullied and humiliated by bullies here in Canada. My name is Stephen Tai. I like to
share a very unbelievable story with you. You may choose not to report it. I do not mind but I would like you to know that there are so much injustice here in Canada that I thought I migrated to a RED canada or a hitler's world here.

I confronted my previous manageress, Jan Floody of the bed and breakfast, shaugnessy village on west 12th avenue 1125, who has withheld some part of my security deposit after I moved out because of me helping the old lady to stand up for her rights against bullies. Jan Floody forced a 60 yo senior tenant to move out just because she complaint about jan floody's unfair attitude towards the old lady.

I helped this old lady to fight back but she lost and moved out. I thought we were here in red canada!! I could not imagine this kind of things would happen here in canada. I know you cannot offer me any help but at least I would like you to know what kind of premises this place is. Jan Floody herself told me to mind my own business (not to make any judgment or complaints) when I was curious about renewing a contract with them which I had no intention of doing so in january. She threatened me and I hope for your informaton, this bed and breakfast should never be allowed in Vancouver nor anywhere in Canada.

She purposely doubled charged my cleaning fees and she admitted all her mistakes but deliberately delay in paying me back all the security deposit that I deserve. There is still an amount of 160 dollar withheld by her which she said she would sign and mail me today instead of giving me the cheque in person when i went to see her today.

She also asked me not to go back to the premises which I have no intention to do so but is it wrong to judge or comment in Canada?! No opinions or comments allowed? She said I was troubled - yes, I am troubled to speak the truth and stand up for my own rights! IS it what canada is about?

I would like to bring this case to you attention as well as to the mass media around the world besides here in vancouver. I want mass media in hong kong, china, taiwan and japan to know about this case. I speak and write 3 languages fluently and I am sure those people would think canada is a good fair country but obviously it is not true.

I hope you at least know about this bed and breakfast and do not help promote a bed and breakfast run by bullies. I as an asian immigrant and citizen did not come here to canada to be bullied by bullies!!

Thank you,
Stephen tai
stephen_tai@yahoo.com

March 28, 2006

The worst thing I note in the characteristic of all Canadians is that they NEVER want to accept anything. Basically it is because of lack of IQ, or the typical environment of bureaucracy and individualistic, far from compassionate society they grow in (although they do claim to be the most compassionate people in the world). Every second Canadian you meet in life cannot see beyond a certain line because of their ignorance about rest of the world. They still think that they are the best country, and so on, not realizing that immigrants feed them. If immigrants were to stop coming to Canada the Canadian economy will just collapse.

It is the immigrants who are buying new houses, cars and other capital goods being produced in Canada, not the early settlers as the English Canadians call themselves. Today the Canadian economy is $1.3 tr, which they could not sustain if fresh immigrants were not to come to Canada. It is their own need that they get immigrants and yet they have the audacity to ask immigrants as to why they came here. The problem is that most people talking foul of immigrants do not even understand this very fact that Canada gets immigrants to fulfill its own economic need. Anyway I would comment on the writing of one: Kellie Barfoot, A Canadian in Mexico, whose comments were posted regarding doctors and other immigrant professionals.

At the outset, the Canadian doctors are the most dumb as far as providing treatment is concerned. They can't even take care of basic ailments like headaches and fever. They waste patient’s time to such an extent that a patient might die by the time he or she is diagnose. If this is the quality of education they receive here then God save them. Just like in any country there are clever manipulators here too. Maximum frauds happen in Canada and many innocents are cheated everyday, yet nothing is done to fraudsters, because consumer fraud and cheating is an accepted norm in Canada. If there are some doctors from among immigrants who are fraud, just put them through a simple test or exam to test their knowledge of profession. Just don’t waste their time for so many years of exams. Canadians just don't want immigrants to settle soon and want to confine them to menial jobs.

Many of their own hospitals have employed 'visiting' doctors from other countries at very high wages because those hospitals need them, yet they refuse to employ doctors who are already here. I am sure if the same visiting doctors had come here as immigrants even from countries like UK, they would have been put through lots of exams and hurdles for licensing. The gist is that the foreign doctors are far far more able in treating the patients vis-à-vis the Canadian trained doctors. I can quote hundreds of cases where people have died in Canada because the family doctors wasted months and years in diagnosing them. Now I will give example of my spouse. She has four University degrees including BEd. She came here almost 15 years ago and was put through a very rigorous and time-consuming process of teaching evaluation by ministry of education. After a gruesome process she was finally asked to do an upgrade her BEd through Brock University, which she did by spending a semester at Brock.

Thereafter she was given the letter of standing or authorization to teach in Ontario by the ministry. Of course she could not get a job because of her skin color. She switched to computers and did some courses and got job in that field with a small organization owned by east-Africans. Now after many years she wanted to try her luck at teaching, she applied to Ontario College of Teachers(OCT) where all the records were transferred by the Ministry. The college asked her to again get all her degrees, transcripts, course content, experience, letter of standing, and so sent directly from the educational institutions in India. Is it not a mockery of the system and systemic racism? On being asked as to why a person has to repeat the tedious and time consuming process again, they told her that this is what she has to do. And the even asked her to write a TOEFL exam.

This is even after submitting that nothing has changed with respect to teaching. Now imagine they are trying to dig the graves again after twenty years. She did her Bsc, BEd, MSc, and MPhil in 1980s. How can one get these things today and why should one have to? In other words the college made her life miserable. Even the head of college, Mr Doug Wilson, would not see reason that if the person has already gone through the process 12 years ago and there is no change in circumstances why should the person be told to repeat the process. The answer is simple that the people in charge want to make life as miserable as possible for immigrants so that the immigrants keep spending all their time in repeated evaluation. And imagine after working for so many years in global corporation, one is asked to write TOEFL.

RACISM PREVAILS IN CANADA! 

Singh
kxkx10@yahoo.com
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

March 21, 2006

First of all I like to say that your website has opened many eyes open about
our so called free country. I'm here writing this email to open your eyes a
little more.

For many years I have believed in this great country of ours
and thought that no matter what you wanted to do you can always follow your
dreams, NOT! I have fought for 8 years to join the police services in
Canada, from getting my education to getting in shape and also training in
martial arts getting ready for that big day of wearing the uniform.

When I went to Vancouver to apply I was informed after a 3 hour seminar that
I'm unable to apply because I'm a white single male. This coming from a
sergeant of the Vancouver City Police which is East Indian (congrats to him).
As the meeting went on he informed me that discrimination is against the law
but that's what they do. They have to discriminate against white males cause
we are NOT a minority! I'm sorry but for one, I am a born and raised Canadian!
Two, in this country I am a minority!

Three quarters of Vancouver is either East Indian or Chinese. White people
don't populate the city like they did in the 50's. My dreams were not shot
down cause there are other services I could join, so I thought. I applied
to the Calgary Police Services as well as Edmonton, R.C.M.P. and the O.P.P
(Ontario Provincial Police). They all said the same thing. Being that I'm a
white single male I'm unable to join.

So when I informed the government that I plan to move to either the U.S. or
England to join to join the police services, because of the crap the
Canadian Government is doing they informed me that I will not be allowed to
leave the country. Now my views of Canada being a free country have since
diminished. I'm unable to join the police services in Canada, and they won't
let me leave to join a foreign police service. I have since tried to contact
someone at Parlement with no avail.

This so called "free country" is not so free. We are in fact a communist
country and people don't realize it! Once your in Canada, your stuck.
I know there is more to this then what meets the eye, but unfortunately the
Canadian Gov wont tell me the truth. In fact, they won't tell me anything.
I guess it all boils down to "I know too much". So my dreams that I have
worked so hard for in the past 8 years have been shot down. Although I am
a Canadian citizen born and raised, I know what immigrants feel like and
know what they are going through. Now all I want to
do is leave this chicken s**t country!

Thnx for listening
Signed "Hating Canada"!
Mike Dion
mopar_mike@hotmail.com

March 21, 2006

I commend this brave Website for depicting true color of this country.

I want to introduce myself. I am the leader of the newly launched political party named 'United Peoples Party of Canada' or UPPC. This party was launched in Dec 2005 and we participated in the last Parliamentary elections held on Jan 23, 2006. We had launched the party with two goals: First, to restore the dignity of all Canadians, esp the immigrants and visible minorities in Canada by putting a decisive end to racism and discrimination. Second, we wanted to provide peaceful, stress free and livable life to all Canadians in a respectable environment of 'mutual' coexistence with each other. Some of the reforms our party is advocating are; Written apology; refund/compensation to past and recent head tax victims, massive immigration overhaul, equality reforms, ending our government's collusion with human rights violators, strengthening consumer laws and tightening monopolies (banks, cable companies, insurance companies, etc), scrapping GST, Providing federal car insurance to victims of high insurance, eliminating income tax on students' employment income, universal day care, establishing mandatory job clinics and ESL centers to 'fast-track' and integrate foreign qualifications/experience, as well as 'requiring' corporations to fill non-management jobs from an updated central database of trained/laid-off individuals, and various other reforms.

We believe that the traditional Canadian parties have been making fools of immigrants and Canadians by harping on standard issues of health care and taxes, which are more of fiscal, rather than social issues. No party has ever included immigration, jobs and racism as part of their election platform because they never want to alienate their vote base. Most people who have come to Canada are classified as immigrants as as opposed to those earlier immigrants who call themselves as 'settlers', because that gives them a class distinction of expecting superior treatment. It is surprising that most Canadians are not even thinking as to what is the future of this country which is breeding so many disgruntled immigrants, who are deprived of their basic right to exist as equals.

I want to tell everyone that nothing can be achieved anywhere in this world without political assertion. That is why there is an imperative need for all of you to strengthen our hands by joining us, so that we can shake the political landscape and extract our right to live as equals. I am talking for everyone irrespective of color, ethnic origin or religion. We are all victims, whether we are Asians, Africans, Europeans or South Americans. No one in Canada is planning to accord equality to other humans. We have to demand it.

Our party is challenging the traditional parties and we are evolving as an 'alternative' to the decaying Liberal Party of Canada, which has conveniently survived on immigrant votes by fooling them, by singing laurels of Pierre Trudeau. Our party is practically helping lot of individuals in distress and we want to evolve as big political family. Hence wake up and join us by contacting us. Kindly visit our Website to see our party platform that we used for recent elections. We are actively looking for members as well as candidates nationwide for next election. We are planning to strike full force.

One thing I want to tell all immigrants (it includes all unless one is ashamed of calling oneself an immigrant because of one's skin color) that you should NEVER forget what they went through in this country, so that it gives you a constant inspiration to do something useful for others. Most of our people who visit these Websites are never to be seen once they get jobs or become comfortable in life. Look at the hosts of this site or look at us. We have spent many-many years in Canada (I am a finance professional myself) and we could have also given up to help others. But there is strong passion inside us to restore our self- respect or else our children would have very hard time in this country. No one is thinking about the future of this country. Yes we all did mistake of coming here. But now that we have come, we must assert ourselves politically because this is where we would die in the end. Wouldn't it be sad if we did not do anything for the future generation or for those yet to come.

Anyone in distress, in need of help, or guidance is most welcome to contact us by phone or email. We have seen every possible harassment and suffering here in Canada. Just remember that our party is like a family where we offer friendship and social dialogue. You all must have seen that there are really no friends to be found here in Canada. But most of our party members have common trait of "self-respect" and common bond of endless suffering. We are determined to replace the Liberal Party of Canada.

Partap Dua
uppcanada@yahoo.com
www.uppc.ca
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
 

March 11, 2006

more related articles.

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1141858212129&call_pageid=991479973472&col=991929131147

http://www.statcan.ca/Daily/English/060301/d060301b.htm

thechoice2006@hotmail.com

March 07, 2006

I have just read a few dozen of the postings about the problems immigrants face when they move to Canada. I was born and raised in Canada, but have been living in Mexico for 3 years. Many of the immigrants who posted here seem to be dis-enchanted and/or angry with Canada. Isn't it the land of milk and honey everyone expected?

I think there are numerous problems with Canada and its government, but many of the things posted here are not completely accurate.

Let's start with the job situation. I agree that many well educated immigrants can't get work in their field, but that isn't necessarily racism.

I'll use the immigrant doctor as an example. Many of the immigrant doctors I have met without jobs in their field, do NOT have sufficient language skills to write the medical exams and provide quality patient care. Also, many come from countries where bribing professors for a passing grade is the norm. Obviously, our government can not allow people to just roll up their sleeves and go to work. The procedures put in place are primarily for the public's protection.

Does that mean that there are no prejudices? Of course not. Plenty of people hold prejudices against people from other countries. But this is more rooted in the 'Doctor's are Gods' complex that the medical profession has. Did you know that they are equally discriminating toward Registered Nurses and Practitioning Nurses? They won't allow nursing professionals to perform many functions that they are qualified for because they fear nurses will encroach on their territory.

Before I came to Mexico I was appalled by the foreign doctors driving taxis in Canada. After spending 3 yrs in Mexico I realize how dangerous it is to assume that a degree qualifies someone to work. Many Mexican professionals have told me they paid professors a few hundred pesos or a few thousand pesos for a passing grade. That's scarey!

When I decided to move to another country to study Spanish and immerse myself in another culture, I researched in depth. I examined several countries and finally settled on Mexico. There were still several surprises, but I was never shocked or taken off-guard to the extent that I couldn't cope. I have read about so many people who came to Canada with high expectations, but it appears they have no understanding of the laws and regulations, cost of living, job openings, etc... This is a serious problem.

I strongly recommend that people do not move to any country without a job, substantial savings and a social support network. If, for example, you have family in a city move and they are willing to provide you with food, shelter, etc... then you will probably be fine. However, if you go unprepared and without a support system you need to be prepared for serious hardships. This is true of almost any nation you move to. I have heard the same about people moving to the US, UK, Australia, and Europe.

As for the weather, again you need to research and be prepared. Yes Canada is cold, and has lousy winters. But I am suffering from the heat in Mexico and here, I have a fear of earthquakes. Earthquakes, tornados, mud slides, tidal waves, heat stroke, volcanoes, life threatening floods, and hurricanes are virtually unheard of. Every country has weather issues. Bad winters just happen to be the Canada's issue.

Last week, here in Mexico, my teenage son's friends were hanging out at the park in our subdivision at 9pm. All of these teens (about 8 in total) live in this same subdivision. All have hard working Mexican parents. All are law abiding citizens. None of that mattered to the 4 Mexican police officers who ordered them against a wall and searched them. They claimed it was to check for drugs. There were no drugs to be found, and no drug paraphanalia. The police took everyone's wallet out and robbed them of their cash! When the kids tried to protest they were threatened.

Has that ever happened to you in Canada?
Do the cops harrass you regularly just because they can?
Have you ever worried about civil war?
Are you worried about armed robberies every time you walk into a bank?
Has your favourite restaurant been blown up by terrorists?

No matter where you live or where you are from, you need to remember there is no Utopia! every country has it's problems.

As for jobs, most immigrants move to Toronto and Vancouver. These cities have dis-proportionate rent prices and much higher costs of living. Alberta has a job boom and has substantiallly more opportunities than Toronto or the east coast. Many people in the Atlantic provinces can not get work there. Consequently, many folks from there are moving to Alberta.

If you really want to make a good life for yourself in Canada, research, research, research, go prepared and keep an open mind. As for racism, you will find that everywhere.

We have been called some horrible things since we moved to Mexico. All because we are different. I was surprised to find out that the people in western Mexico don't like the folks from Mexico City, and the Puerta Ricans are treated badly by some. Does that mean I hate Mexico? Of course not. I love this country and everything it has to offer. But I plan to move back to Canada this year. I want to be in the culture I grew up in.

What culture you ask? I have read that many think we don't have a culture, but we do. It's subtle though. Some could argue that the subtilty is exactly what makes it part of the culture. We are more than just hockey. We laugh at ourselves more than most nations. If you have any doubts, watch This Hour Has 22 Minutes, or The Royal Cdn Air Farce. We also get less hot under the collar about politics than most cultures. We have more tolerance for differences than most countries, especialy religious ones.

We eat Cdn foods too. I can't wait for perogies, poutine, sugar pie, French Cdn meat pie, and New Brunswick baked beans. Did I mention NB rabbit stew? Salt cod, fish and brews, and smoked salmon are also a few great foods from our area. Those of you that don't see it probably live in Toronto and Vancouver. Cities that big become melting pots, and are not culturally unique. If you want culture go to Nfld, northern Quebec, Northern NB or the NS coast.

Do we have flaws? Absolutely! But if your home land was so perfect why did you leave in the hopes of a better life in Canada? You probably left because you wanted something new and different. You will never find a perfect country, but if you work with the neighbourhood, society and government, together we can improve the country.

To those of you living without the support you need, please seek out community groups and the church/sinagogue/mosque, etc... of your religious belief, and ask them for help. Don't be shy, walk right up and tell them you need their help to make your transition easier. I think you will be surprised at how many community organizations, service groups, and houses of worship will welcome you.

Don't give up. No matter where you have immigrated to, embracing a new way of life can be exciting and exhiliarating. Think of it as an adventure. Your positive attitude is the biggest hurdle to jump.

Good luck. I wish you all well.

Kellie Barfoot
A Canadian in Mexico
kelliemex@hotmail.com

March 05, 2006

This is a very good forum to understand other side of immigrants who living in Canada. Ironically the picture is not rosy. I am a H1B visa holder have been working in USA for last 6 years in IT area and applied Canadian PR that got approved. One of the suprising
part is the yearly cap for the immigrants in Canada that is too high compare to the biggest economy in the world that is USA. Please note in USA, the temporary workers option is only for IT not for
any other area.For non IT immigrants it is very hard to get job with decent salary, that's why the Government is not inviting them. The highest number of Taxi drivers in Newyork is from South Asia that those came in Political asylum category. How come Canada is inviting
so much of people without any demand in their country. So No demand means the immigrants should face the hardship,that's why France encountered biggest riots from immigrant community.
Canada would face problem like France in the future.For people from India,China and Pakistan, after got your PR try your luck for 3 to 4 months. If nothing succeed go back to your country and run a decent life rather than doing odd jobs in Canada.Why I am talking about
those 3 countries, the econmomy for those countries are progressing well and high demand for professionals.

Ashok Srinivasan
California
ms_ashok@rediffmail.com

March 05, 2006

If you have plans to move your families to Canada here’s a few things to think about before you make that life altering decision. What I’m telling you is first hand from someone that was born and raised in this country who’s roots go back several generations who’s grandfather had fought in both world wars and a father who fought in the second world war and myself fighting a war so to speak within his own country. To begin with the governments of Canada want you to come to this country for one reason only and that’s to make the rich foreign corporations richer meaning a majority of immigrants will be force to live under the poverty line. In this country you will find that financial institution have the right to steal from you and leave you with no legal recourse. If you plan to purchase a home in this country you better pay cash or you can loss that home for various reasons and to get any legal assistance forget it if your not rich because the legal system here is corrupt and I can prove it and regardless of what proof you have to fight your case the governments of this country and media will turn a blind eye and your complaints will fall on deaf ears, because the laws here are not designed to protect the workers of this country there designed to protect the rich foreign corporations that get massive tax breaks will the onus of taxes lie solely one the backs of the hard working public, and I emphasize foreign because Canada has very little in the corporate sector meaning you would be better of moving to the United States of America because Canada is slowly becoming an American ghetto.

Another problem with Canada is that animals have more rights then the human population although the government boasts about our Charter of Rights and Freedoms and our Constitutional Rights the fact is neither are worth the paper their written on because these rights are denied us every day in one way or another so don’t let either of these documents persuade you to relocate here because that’s all they are designed to do, and if you decide to believe in these rights you will get a rude awakening once here but what I can guarantee you is that once here you will find it very hard to get out because you can’t afford the fare to leave. You will also find yourself in an oppressive country where you are expendable as is our resources. To back up this statement the Canadian people are no more then a resource hence the Ministry of Human Resources, that makes Immigration a worker replacement program and you will be terrorized in this country although not buy conventional mean. Fact is a majority of politicians in this country are only in politics for personal gain and have hidden agendas and it’s frustrating for those who are actually in it for the people.

As for my agenda I feel it is my duty as a politician of meager means to save anyone thinking of entering this country any undue suffering, the same suffering that Canadians endure each and everyday. And being a citizen who has perform his duty of aiding in the building of the Canadian Economy while working in the construction industry up until my life was drastically changed forever due to a car accident which as turned me into a care-giver for my wife who’s worth in the eyes of this government is only $214.00 per month while the American insurance industry rake in massive earning off our backs, while Canadians are forced to live on government programs. Example: Average payout in the US for accident victims are half a million dollars where in Canada it’s fifty thousand and a guarantee of social service.

Robert Boyd
Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes, Brock.
Cosmopolitan Party of Canada
www.agoracosmopolite.com

March 04, 2006

Hi,

I'm very happy to know that this kind of site exists on the net.

I am an experienced business development consultant and have recently been granted permanent residency in Canada. Last week, I went to Toronto on a "fact finding mission". I stayed there for a week only to get disappointed with Canada.
Canada's job market is completely closed up to a newcomer. I bet the situation is the same for some born Canadians as I knew some of them trying to look for a job outside of Canada.

I was shocked to find that there is a hypocrisy at the governmental level. Inviting professionals to the country where companies or organization (even provincial government) are barring overseas professionals from entering their work force in their fields. Under the seemingly legitimate words, "Canadian Experience", they are basically practicing discrimination against an outsider, no matter how qualified he or she may be professionally. As far as I know, this is the only country in the civilized world that would ask for such a thing. There is no such thing as "American Experience", "British Experience", "Australian Experience", "New Zealand Experience", "German Experience" or "Japanese Experience". (By the way, I have a living experience in both the US and the UK and know people living and working in Australia and New Zealand.)

I finally understood why Canada was the least popular place for immigration. I was basing this on the weather factor, but I realized that it was actually the nature of hiring practice in this country which has deterred many immigrants (professionals) from coming to this place. This in turn led me to believe that Canadian companies are practicing "nepotism" or hiring from within only. From this reason, Canada should be designated as a Third World country. Also, from its protectionist character, the Canadian economy could be the least vibrant of all the western countries and is lagging behind many other economies.

I was worried even before this trip that there might be no job prospect for me in Canada, since although I sent in so many inquiries and resumes to nearly 100 recruitment agencies (not companies), none of them gave me a response, except for two or three, who simply told me to look at the job postings on their websites. The job of the recruitment or placement agencies is to help those looking for a job explore the opportunity in the job market. These agencies simply forgot why they exist in the business and threw away their responsibilities. I found it very hard to understand this, and it was really difficult to even hold meeting with them even though it's not a job interview!!

Now that I know I was right about what I had been worried about, I decided not to make a permanent move to Canada. I returned to where I made my application for immigration to Canada. I am now preparing to file application to move to the UK, while keeping an option for Australia. At least, by then, I would be better off in my old country.

Regards,

Masashi Kawakami
dabentzi@yahoo.com

March 02, 2006

Here are some relevant articles, that prove that many skilled immigrants aren't staying in Canada:

Many skilled immigrants aren't staying in Canada:

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1141253416977&call_pageid=968350130169&col=969483202845

Immigrating to Canada becomes a revolving door for some:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20060301.wimmigration0301/BNStory/National/home

Many working-age immigrants leave: Statistics Canada:

http://www.cbc.ca/story/canada/national/2006/03/01/migrate060301.html

Immigrants often not staying:

http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2006/03/02/1469606-sun.html

thechoice2006@hotmail.com

March 02, 2006

You know I am so sick and tired of hearing how awful Canada is. How tough the minorities and Aboriginal people have it.
"How unfair we are. How we are ignorant white trash. How we discriminate against anyone that isn't white. How we ruin lives.

How we crush their dreams. How we don't give them a chance. How Canada's government screws all the immigrants."

I was born and raised in Canada. So I guess that makes me ignorant white trash. I am a single mom of two and work at a ok job. My dreams haven't come true either. And I'm white. I don't have alot of money. And I'm white. I'm a fourth class citizen in my own Country. And I'm white. Holy crap that is unfair. I'm educated, a hard worker, pay my taxes, look after my kids. I'm white.

Apparently things are supposed to be so much better for me. Unfair. They are not. I live like millions of other people do. But I'm white so I should have more. Well where is it? Where is mine? Where is all the opportunities that I hear white people get?

Oh yeah. For a second I forgot myself. I live in the real world. I guess I have exactly what I deserve. A decent life filled with hard work, hardships and mundane everyday things.

Maybe I should move to the States. Or Africa. Or Iraq. Or Pakistan. Or Cambodia. Anywhere else would have to be better than Canada. I'm sure my life would be much better. I'm sure to get a better job. Have to pay less in taxes. I'm sure to make more money. To pay less for daycare.
(Oh I'm sorry what's that? You don't even have day care. Ahh)

Well then. To have a wonderful house or apartment that doesn't cost alot of money with a back yard for the kids to play in.
(What's that? There are no yards or even parks for the kids to play in. And we're not allowed outside after a certain time. Hmm)

Well, I'm sure everyone will be kind to me. Everyone is so friendly, wanting to welcome me with warm words and open arms.
(Oops!!!! Maybe not. Their arms seemed to be filled with......................... guns!!!
(Well, I'm sure they would if there arms were free)

Well no matter. I'm am sure my kids and I will be better off anywhere else in the world than that awful country called Canada.

Especially when I start to complain about their country. Their government. Their people. Throw around the race card, call them names, blame them if things don't go my way, or if I'm not hired for the jobs I'm qualified for, or if I couldn't live the way I thought I could live if I just left that awful Canada or if............

What's this!!! Oh no! Has my tiny little shack of a house been blown away by a hurricaine? Or was it squashed in that a mud slide? Or torn apart by the tornado? Maybe swallowed up by the earthquake? Maybe it floated away with all the extra water caused by the heavy rains from the typhoon?

No, no. That couldn't be. ONLY Canada has the horrendous weather.

I'm sure their government will help me, unlike Canada's.

Oh Ok. Now I know what happened.It wasn't the weather at all. Silly me. It was blown up by the wonderful people who leisurley stroll along the streets day and night till all hours, waving their hands, oops, I'm sorry, I mean guns at people.

The government will help me for sure. I mean after all, it's not my fault that I don't have a shack anymore. RIGHT???????????

Hey! Maybe they will buy me a new one. And some new furniture to go in it. A little money for food. All right!!! I'm so excited.

Let's go and ask these warm and wonderful people right now if they will do that for me.

Oh sorry. . .This ends hear . . . I'm dead. . . So glad I left that awful Canada.

Debra
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
wholelotofsass@yahoo.ca

Feb 21, 2006

Maurice Skinner
moeskinner@shaw.ca

My Report of Election Outcome

Thank you and best Regards,

Mohamed Elrofaie
www.mohamedelrofaie.com

Feb 15, 2006

Guillermo Alvarez
guillermoalvarez21@yahoo.ca

Feb 14, 2006

i am writing this to inform to all canadians specially  immigrants that
canada  loves refugee and immigrants. but at the same time canadian regime
do not trust refugees or immigrants. canadian regime is very insecure.
canadian regime wants ready made tax payers, voters, consumers . they do
not care about refugees or immigrants at all. immigrants or refugees are
here for benifit of  elite and rulling class. and make sure that refugees or
immigrants do not become threats  regime uses old dirty tricks devide and
conqure.

in case of indocandian they are instigating and inspiring hate
through movies and  doucumentires  like deepa metha's movie water and fire
and Ali Kazimi' documentry runaway groom and best of both world this movies
and documentries have one thing  common it potraytes indocandian men as bad
guy villon. indo candian immigrants and refugees have some difficulties to
live in racist country like canada and to make worst you have  Ali Kazimi and
deepa metha mouth peice of regime instigates and inspire hate towards
indocandian men every community and race has problems and no one is perfect
but canadian regime always use mouth peice like ali kazimi and deepa metha to
instigate and inspire hate towards indocanian men.

same thing  in british
columbia bctv in vancouver always blames its drug problem on indocanadian
that they are responsible but so much drug sold by chinese, vietnamese,
iranians, afgans, and by the way most of the hells angels members are white
males but bctv always spread hates and lies toward indocandian men that they
are selling drugs and they are problems. indocandian men are always target
of  police assasin like bhindy johal who was gun down in bar by police
assasin  named thomas peter logan  who use to live at 52 east hasting street
room no# 40 now he in united states in buter medium security  prison and his
id# 35208-048 but they have declare him dead and moved him out of there and 
gave him new idendity.

canadian regime points finger at iran and  zimbabwe
and says they violet women , minority, humanrights and what better canadian
regime is look at minority men in canada like blacks, indocandians and
native men they are financially and sexually frustrated  and turn them into 
alcoholics, drug addicts, cumpulsive gamblours, and most of the shooting
happening in toronto and in b.c and alberta of  indocandian men and black 
men is done  by  police informant in gang  and then domino effect takes
place police is responsible in b.c , alberta, toronto of gun violence also
police in this country use people on parole and probation to sell drugs that
includes rcmp also they ask people on parole and probation to use mind
manipulation tactics to lure people in criminal act to worsen situation on
street so police union can expand membership and  police can crate overtime
and police also use this people to make false statement on sworn affidavid on
people and plant evidence and create case or create criminal to scam tax
payers by investigate person who in reality has not commited any crime this
is the reason there are so many case of  miscourage of justice and canada
want to point finger at every one and find something wrong with every one,
but what about themshelves?

fatima khan
saturn2000566@hotmail.com

Feb 13, 2006

Feb 13, 2006

As a Canadian, I am very disgusted by this site; mainly because these are
the ways people who have posted here truly feel. Canadians are white pigs?
Then what does that make you for even saying that?

I too have very strong opinions, but never would I publicly bash a country,
religion, culture or person.

I would much rather see all Canadian citizens - whether immigrants or not,
working together to make this country what it says it is.

I love Canada. Yes, Canada has issues to work out - much like every country
in this world. But the thing you don't see is Canadians creating any sort of
war against each other, unlike many other countries.

I believe every person is racist to an extent. Of course you believe in YOUR
culture and YOUR religion - but why not be open to at least accepting, or
learning about all of the different cultures that have been brought to
Canada?

I can honestly say, there is very little respect for Canadian culture from
the people who immigrant here. Nor do the people who immigrant here even
open themselves up to be a part of Canadian culture. Big cities are
segregated into different races, cultures or religions. There is very little
effort to speak English, which separates everyone as well.

I get phone calls at work from Chinese people, who instantly start speaking
Chinese. Why would this be, when you're calling somewhere in Canada?

It just saddens me to read all of this.

I cant believe the comments that have been made about crime in Canada. The
crime rate in Canada is much lower than most countries. And are in the
majority, gang related. But - how many white people do you see in gangs?
Think about that. Who are committing these crimes?

How can you say that Canadians don't want to speak to anyone with accents?
There are even born Canadians that have accents. You will find that most
Canadians will have an automatic respect for you, if you are attempting to
actually speak our language; because there are very few that seem to.

I personally work in an office where I am the only white employee - the rest
are Chinese. Everyone can speak English, but they don't bother to. I eat
lunch by myself every single day because I don't speak any Chinese language
and cant understand what anyone is saying. So should I have to go out and
learn Cantonese? Just so I can understand the people I work with? In Canada?
No I shouldn't. This company only hires Chinese people. I was told I was
hired because they got a complaint and needed a white face. IN MY OWN
COUNTRY this is what I get. So no, its not just Canadians who hire a certain
race.

Anyway, I would really like all of you to think before you go off on a
public rant. I don't think anyone is perfect, nor do I believe that any of
you really try to be a Canadian.

I do sympathize with those of you who cannot find employment here - but also
realize that there is a certain criteria and level of respect needed before
most companies will even consider you. If you make an effort to truly become
Canadian - I'm sure you will go a lot farther here.

Signed,
A true Canadian.
miss bethanne
missbethanne@hotmail.com

Feb 10, 2006

I agree with most of the comments about Canada.I personally believe that the government of this countrty is running an international scam called immigration,ripping off the people of third world of their hard earned savings.I also have a masters dgree from USA + 2 year work experience and now pursuing another Masters in their largest Universty of Toronto.I'll be graduating this summer, but I am already mentally prepared that these white Canadian pigs will come up with new excuse......sorry you dont have Canadian experience.

faraz ahmed
faraz_70s@yahoo.com

Feb 07, 2006

My evaluation about Canada; the entire country simply live in a world of sweat dream and never wants to be practical. They made highly over rated evaluations about the country which are nothing but bull ****. Always remember that if you know how to manipulate with Statistics then you can show anything. I even can show that Pakistan is better than Canada! Believe me. For an example, Canada officially shows the unemployment rate which is just the no. of EI reciepients. They don't count the social benefits recipients or the guys with no benefits. Just imagine how much the actual unemployment rate really be!

Ask any Canadian about US life, they'll portray US as a war zone with all criminals/racists and so on. Funny part is that they can't run their country for a single days without US. even have to go there for vacation, I met some born Canadian who didn't visit any other provinces in Canada but use to go to the US every year.

DO NOT ever believe the story of UN no. 1 living standard..excelent free health care such things. As a new immigrant your life will be as tougher as anything. Because of such sweat words I moved into Canada from the US thinking of easy Img. but then eventually lost 2+ years. I had 1 US masters with 2+ experience there, then got 2nd Masters here, but nothing worked. Then I moved back into the US again. My question to the fellow Canadians who are claiming that immigrants do not work hard..dollar doesn't grow in tree..what was my fault? Please be sympathize for the immigrants. Your government if not legally, but morally responsible for their disaster. Another thing, don't think that as they came from under country they should be obliged to live in Canada. Those days are over. Now a days the difference is not that much.

More importantly, when a person can't find a suitable job, no social security can satisfy him. They had well established career, driver driven cars. Now it is too late for them to go back. They even can't find job back home. Some even do not have money to buy the tickets. So, you should beach your government to invite them here rather beaching them. They didn;t forcefully come here. They were invited and after coming found the myth became horror.

There is absolutely no opportunities in Canada, even for the locals. How can they expect that immigrants will come and develop their country? We r not in the 1700's anymore. They may need some part time construction workers in the summer so invite the civil engineers. Need some computer technicials/manufacturer? Bring the IT professionals. Need floor cleaners? bring the Environmental Engineers. Under jobs? They should be thankful to Canada to be here!!! This country although had lot to offer, but the attitude of the people is not professional at all.
To establish in Canada in your own profession as a new immigrant, you at least have to have one of the below;
1. Have good connection (most important).
2. Be in a category of noble prize winners.
3. Be a direct friend of God.
If not, then manage a factory/physical labor job..
best thing is to get the Citizenship and move to the US.

Hadi
Dallas, TX, USA
hadi07@yahoo.com

Feb 04, 2006

Advice to Immigrants from an Immigrant

Every immigrant has a different story. Some immigrants achieved instant success. Some had to work for success. Some never achieved success despite working for it. A few will never achieve success.
If you have not achieved success as yet or have just migrated to Canada, here’s a few things that you can do to make life easier for yourself.
Being from India, I have also provided a few examples of what would happen in India if you were a foreigner in India.

1. Erase the accent: In the call centres in India, the workers have to go through what is called “accent neutralisation”, so that they can understand and be understood by the people they are talking to on the telephone. What applies there for Indians who talk to North Americans on the telephone, applies equally to people who migrate here and have to talk to Canadians face-to-face. No one wants to talk to a immigrant with such a thick accent that they can’t follow what (s)he is saying.
In India, a person who speaks with a foreign accent would find that the prices of everything doubles – groceries, taxi fare, bribes paid to local officials to do their jobs (such as giving you a driver’s licence) or not to do their jobs (such as giving you a traffic ticket), etc. Indians will cheat you because they know you don’t know the score.

2. Move from Gerrard Street / Chinatown/ Brampton: It’s comforting to live in a place where everyone looks like you, speaks like you and thinks like you. But if that is what you wanted, why did you move to Canada from India/ China/ Pakistan/ wherever you came from? Move to a place where you will have to live alongside Canadians. Understand that you are in Canada now and you have to become Canadian or always be regarded as a foreigner. Understand the Canadian culture and become part of it.

Joe
Toronto, ON
penman@operamail.com

Feb 03, 2006

I came to Canada on 1996. I brought all my life savings. I have more than 20 years experience in Engineering; I could not find a job for more than 8 years; I trusted people in Canada; I invested all my savings in a fake franchise and I lost everything; now I'm in bankrupcy and I can't have anymore credit in this Country; I have a small job surviving to have food for my family.
The true is that anybody told me this could happen when I applied to immigrate to Canada. Now I can't go back to my Contry, I don't have enough to pay tickets.
Discrimination (race and age are my worst enemies, no support, lies, high taxes, etc. a trully nightmare.
This is not a good Country to immigrate.

Marcelo Gonzalez
Brampton, Ontario
marcelog@rogers.com

Feb 02, 2006

I too watched the W5 program. My point of view is all the immigrants that have posted "Bash Canada" comments should be more than willing to go back to their own countries to find that dream job and dream income.

There are thousands of Canadians born and raised in this country that can't find jobs either.....with huge student tuitions to pay for..also working in a fast food restaurant; cleaning rooms; etc. or working at minimum wages. We, as Canadians, have made so many concessions for immigrants in this country. New immigrants get free medical care; free English lessons; subsidized housing; monthly incomes to become resettled; the freedom to practice their religions and build mosques, etc. etc.

Don't you think the rest of us, born Canadians are sickened by how much extra we have to pay in taxes to support your immigration. Thank you Sam Rabbit for your comments.....ohhh, so true. You people come to country and expect us to change our traditions. For example, we have RCMP that are allowed to wear turbins on their head.

The last time I checked, there was no such tradition in the CANADIAN RCMP..which happens to be 100's of years old. Why do you have to bring your cultures to our country and expect us to change 100's of years of our traditions and cultures. How many of you out there that are bashing Canada, even speak English well enough to get that dream job??
The only thing left to say, is if you don't like it here...GO HOME....to your own country....and see if life is better for you.
That's what freedom is all about....the freedom of choice. Nobody has you chained to Canada....GO HOME!!!!!

Sharon M.
Kelowna, BC
sing4joy@shaw.ca

Jan 30, 2006

Hi, I am a native Italian who married a Canadian citizen 4 years ago ( We met in Italy in the coffe shop of the facility were he was working as a scientist and i was doing research for my graduate thesis).We decided to move to Canada. I am a Doctor of Economics and I speak 4 languages. In four years I haven`t been able to find a decent job. The last job offer that I got was for a front desk clerk position in a resort. The hourly wage was 7 dollar 25 cents an hour. They said they could raise it to 8 dollar/hour after a while given that I am multilingual.

I am totally disappointed with Canada and Canadians. This is not what I wanted for my career and my life. To all of this add the racism that I face every day due to the fact that I have an accent. People keep talking down to me, they ask me if I speak english and if I understand what they are saying..( I have studied English in Oxford, England...I know a little English).

Evem my husband`s family really never accepted me or the 2 years old daughter that me and my husband have. Thay are people with very narrow minds. Or maybe they just have a bad memory.They have already forgotten that they are immigrants as well. They immigrated to Canada from Ireland in the early 1800`s.
All of you arrogant Canadians are immigrants!!
(Except of course for the native people)

Well, to make along story short we have decided to go back to Italy.
We`ll have a better life there.
So long, Canada!

Alessandra
Halifax, NS, Canada
ale_lodola@yahoo.com

Jan 22, 2006

Jan 22, 2006

The impression given about Canada in a story in the Lifestyle magazine in the Sunday Nation of January 15, on the achievements of Kenya-born Canadian diplomat Bhupinder Singh Liddar, as far as employment is concerned is absolutely false.

I am a Kenyan computer professional who emigrated to Canada last August. I have international qualifications and a wealth of experience in Information Technology and banking. However, six months down the line I have not landed a single IT job.

There is blatant discrimination against new immigrants for top jobs and without Canadian experience, you do not get a job. I have put in more than 300 applications since arriving here but I've not received a single response. And this is the case with all immigrants whether you are black, white or brown.

There are no white collar jobs available for professionals and let nobody kid you about that. People with PhDs are driving taxis, delivering pizzas and filling up cars at petrol stations. Your qualifications and work experience elsewhere are not recognised in Canada and I challenge the Canadian government to state otherwise.

There is a big debate going on in the Canadian Press about this very issue and all the political parties are promising to do something about this sorry situation. 

Professionals who come here are given menial jobs and if you are one of those lucky few who do manage to get a job of your choice, the government taxes you to death and you live from hand to mouth. 

I would like to caution all my fellow African professionals, who may be thinking of coming here in search of greener pastures to forget the rosy picture that the Government of Canada paints on its websites. For a more authentic picture of life in Canada, please, visit the website www.notcanada.com.

I urge my fellow professionals to consider very carefully all the pros and cons before coming to Canada. Life is not a bed of roses, as portrayed on the government-sponsored websites. And even if you scrounge around and spend a fortune to upgrade your professional skills and land a decent job, there is no job security. 

You can be let go just like that when there is no work. I think it is important to highlight the truth before people spend a small fortune to get to Canada and then realise that it was all in vain. 

There are literally millions of new immigrants who are suffering silently and I think it is my duty to highlight this problem and help avert further misery for others.

Siraj Siddiqui, 
Canada 

Sunday Nation
Kenya's Premier Newspaper
http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/nmgcontententry.asp?category_id=23&newsid=65644

Jan 22, 2006

I always find it interesting when people leave their country of origin to immigrate to a new country then complain about their situation when they arrive.

My father was an immigrant and never once asked for anything from his new country. He arrived, couldn't speak English or French with very little money and was able to realize the "Canadian dream" through hard work and determination, not crying about what the country doesn't give him to help him succeed.

I hope that people would realize that there are reasons that they immigrated to Canada, which is probably that they wanted a better life than was available to them in their homeland. Surprise, nothing in life is free. You have to work for what you get and if the best you can do is sit there and complain about how hard it is to get by in Canada, try you luck in another country. I'm sure you will have a difficult time immigrating to many of the countries around the world. I have to tend to believe that the main reason that you are here in the first place is that it was easy to immigrate here, which says a lot about you. You took the easy route and now you are finding it isn't that easy so the whining and complaining starts.

How about posting the immigration requirements for countries like the US, Australia, Sweden, Norway, Italy, Germany, Britain and the like. It would be truly interesting to see how easy it is to become a new immigrants in those countries, let alone prosper once you are there.

I will not resort to the standard line of "If you don't like it, go home", because if you truly are a Canadian you are home. Just realize that you seemed to have spent some time on building a web site to criticize your new country, and maybe just maybe, if you put that time to doing more to better yourself you just might get further ahead because the last time I looked, Taxi driver is not the only job available in this country.
Now the responses to you list:

1 - Discriminatory and Dishonest Immigration System. - Just because you are a doctor in a foreign land does not mean you are qualified to practise in Canada. We should make people qualify to do the jobs that they claim to be able to do. This may be a surprise to you but some people may lie about their qualifications and it doesn't just apply to immigrants but to everyone. That's why new employers ask for recommendations when you apply for a job, so that they can verify that you know what you say you know. Again life isn't easy and it may take some time but work at it and you may realize your dream, then again, you may not but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try.

2 - Out Of Control Cost Of Living. - Canada is 5 times as expensive as living in which countries. Please do not tell me you are comparing Canada to a country like Mexico or some of the African Nations. We have a higher standard of living in this country than most other countries and surprise, that standard of living costs, but amazingly, the great majority of Canadians seem to get by.

3 - Health Care Crisis. - Have to give you this one, I am one of the many people in this country that does not have a family doctor, but I have never been denied medical service, I just have to wait for it a while. But I do have to ask, how many people in Dr. Khalid Rafiq's homeland have a family doctor.

4 - Very High Taxes. - Most Canadians feel we are overtaxed, but most of us don't mind the taxes as long as the services are there and our money isn't wasted. Our government hasn't done a great job of providing the services or not wasting our money. This may be a draw, but like many items on your list, if you had done a little research before immigrating to Canada, this would not have been a surprise. Also, please don't tell me that the reason we are taxed so heavily is because of the beer drinking, hockey watching welfare bums. If I said that the reason we were overtaxed was because of the turban wearing, cricket watching, curry eating immigrants taking ESL courses, I'm sure that you might just take a bit of offence to that as I am sure that many of us beer drinking, hockey watching, working Canadians might take offence to your comment. If you don't like prejudice, don't perpetuate it.

5 - Money Hungry Government. - The reason that our government requires new immigrants to have, not pay, $10,000.00 is so that they are not a drain on the system when they arrive. If you come to the hockey watching party with no beer, that means you'll be drinking mine. We are sorry, but you have to pay your own way.

6 - No Culture. - We had culture, it has just been diluted by our Multi-Culturalism. When my father arrived, he learned the rules of hockey in his attempt to become more Canadian. Now a days, new immigrants seem to want the rest of the people to respect their traditions and rituals but refuse to recognize our existing traditions and rituals. Does "Happy Holidays" ring a bell. How on earth can someone be offended by someone wishing them a Merry Christmas. I do not get offended when someone wishes me a Happy Chanukah or any other salutation. I take it for what it is, an honest declaration that the person wishes me well on their day of celebration. Say thank you and move on. Our Mounties have a uniform, but even that had to be changed because someone wanted to wear a turban. Where was the respect for our tradition, because we were forced to recognize someone else's tradition.

7 - Worst Weather. - Just where did you think Canada was located. I guess you just got confused by all the pictures of palm trees that you see in pictures of Canada. Maybe you should have done a little research before you got here.

8 - No Jobs. - I know a lot of people and I only know of 1 person without a job. That person is out of work because of poor life choices, not because of a lack of work. There is work out there and not just to drive taxis or deliver pizzas. I currently work at a job that was not my "dream job", but I am happy and I work hard. Just because you cannot have the job of your choice does that mean you quit trying and resort to laying blame on everyone else. That is not the "Canadian Way". But from your article you don't want to be a Canadian, so your choices do not surprise me.

Don't get me wrong, we have problems in this country, but the prosperity of new Canadians who expect everything to be handed to them is very low on my list of things to correct. Nothing you have listed should have surprised you upon arrival. I do not take a vacation without exploring all the information I can get my hands on and if you chose to immigrate here without doing any type of investigation on your own, not the word of some consulate employee, them shame on you, not shame on us.

I'll leave you with one last piece of wisdom that you should repeat every morning when you wake up. "LIFE IS NOT FAIR SO DON"T EXPECT IT TO BE"

Mike Thoma
mike.thoma1@scheinmangroup.com

Jan 20, 2006

Hello,

I am writing to ask about your policy on using information posted on the forums for use in student research. But first let me introduce myself. My name is Amanda and I am a third year PhD student in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at the University of Guelph (Ontario, Canada). My dissertation topic will involve examining immigrant's reactions to unmet employment expectations when they immigrate to Canada, how they cope with changes to their career identities, and how they deal with the challenges of finding career- or training-related employment.

As part of my studies, I am taking a qualitative research methods class and am required to do a mini research project. As such, I would like to start to explore the issue of immigrants' experiences of finding career-related work and their reactions to such challenges.

Specifically, I would like to analyse the content of the postings on your forum in terms of where immigrants are attributing responsibility for their difficulties (e.g., do they feel they were misled by the Canadian government), how they are dealing with the challenges (e.g., are they leaving the country or taking "survival" jobs), and what they are saying to others. To respect the confidentiality of the people posting to the site I will use pseudonyms in my research report. My goal is to start to understand the complexity of the issue and I think the postings on your forum provides a very candid view of people's experiences.

I would like to know whether you have any objections to the use of your forum for such a purpose. If you have questions about the project, use of the information, or potential publication of such findings, please feel free to ask and I will clarify as best I can. If possible, please let me know within the next week as my project does have a time line and if I am unable to use your forum, I will need time to find an alternative.

Thank-you for your time and consideration,

Amanda Matejicek, M.A.
PhD Candidate
Department of Psychology
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON
amatejic@uoguelph.ca

Jan 20, 2006

Dear Sir

I would like to first thank you for such a well done job on this issue!
Yes its all a fake here for myself coming here as a qualified immigrant through the Skilled Workers Category!!
I am 27 as of to date i came when i was almost turning 25 years qualified from the ACCA
The association of Chartered Certified Accountants the Professional Accountancy Body in United Kingdom
And now face this problem of finding and keeping a job
I am currently working with an emploment agency and hence finding little employment where ever i seem to fit in
I am doing administrative work which is pitiful as this pointin time of my life!!!
I would like to really utilize my resources and skills to help the economy but its hopeless here !'
I would like to return to my homeland Trinidad and Tobago asap!
Its better there regardless of the escalating level of crime in the country . After comparison its works out to be better in Trinidad!!
I thank you for your website and information you provdided.....
All of my friends lives back home are much healthier than mines at moment they are all in good companies and earning alot of money they even drive nice cars and travel frequently on job assignments and vacation with their families.
I live in Ottawa, ON, and because i am unable to gain security clearance or the governement of Canada says it going to take up to one year or more i would not be able to gain permanent employment as I currnetly work in a government Buidling that requires clearance . I am an immigrant and hence this is my downfall there is also the factor of not being bilingual that you should bring up , People like myself how has lived all their lives in an english environment finds it difficult for understanding and speaking the way they do, its no even goo dfrench but their canadian french language that was invented by them !!!!
So knowing Authentic french is no help which i have studied for 7 years but still finds difficulty in understanding them and relating to them on their levels.
Faithfully
Sean Asgarali
SAsgarali@snclavalinprofac.com

Jan 20, 2006

Hi,

First I want to say is that this kind of site was very
much needed.
Had this existed a few years ago I would not have come
to Canada.
It protrays a realistic scenario of Canada from the
standpoint of a qualified professional.

But I wont waste too much time telling you about my
story.
Suffice it to say it has followed the script of many
qualified professionals here.

I want to comment about you endorsing the Conservative
party of Canada for the upcoming elections.

In this matter I want to echo the comments by franco
cignelli below.

However upset we are with the Liberal party, the
tories really dont care about the immigrants.
The only thing that might be beneficial to us would be
that they curtail immigration
to levels where we Canada will not be saturated with
them with no meaningful
employment. This would allow easier absorbtion into
the workplace without the burden of
another 100s of 1000s new qualified people coming in
every year.

Other than that you can bet that will not move on any
promises.

A negative vote against the Libs may end up hurting us
more.

At this point I will be doing some strategic voting
between the Liberals and NDP.
Depending on who is stronger among the two in my
riding I will vote for them.

Good luck to all.

Syed Haider
syedh1232001 @ yahoo.com

Jan 20, 2006

Did you notice?
Did you see who evacuated the injured Canadian troops out of Afghanistan?
Aside from the fact that it was an Coalition Convoy, and American soldiers rushed to the aid of Canadian soldiers? Those Canucks were airlifted by Americans! Look at the footage!
The evacuation aircraft at Kandahar Airport? Yes, it was an American C-141 Starlifter.
It was American pilots and American aircrew, and American soldiers.
That airplane went to; an American airbase in Germany!
At that base: American doctors treated those injured Canadian soldiers!

So the next time you're in Miami or Orlando, or Anaheim;
enjoying a nice Canadian/British vacation,
because you can't stand your own weather; don't trash
America!

And now that Stephen Harper is going to be the next Prime
Minister of Canada, remember who you
depend on for you standard of living; such as it is! Harper
certainly knows the truth and so should you. That's right,
the good ole U.S.A. The Conservatives are going to finally
set things right in one important respect; Canada-USA relations.
So those of you in England, planning on making Canada your
new Colonial Home; think again.

The USA does not stand for British Colonialist thinking. It
does not stand for outrageous anti-immigrant attitudes.
Anybody can make in America. Remember, this; who is Canada
and Britain's best friend?

A friend in need is a friend indeed! Always there. Stars
and Stripes Forever!

Tired of Anti-American Canucks and Brits

Matt Grewall
mattgncl @ cablerocket.com

Jan 18, 2006