20,000 illegal workers build Toronto.

Approximately 20,000 undocumented workers are employed in the construction industry in the Greater Toronto area, a report commissioned by the Labourers' International Union of North America claims. The union wants action by the industry and government to deal with the problem.

The study reports that that undocumented workers:

* often work for minimum wage or less;

* find their wages at risk as employers exploit their vulnerability;

* work under conditions that violate health and safety rules;

* live in fear of being deported; and

* risk engaging in criminal activity.

The study, The Impact of Undocumented Workers on the Residential Construction Industry in the Greater Toronto Area, was conducted by the Soave Strategy Group. In a preliminary report, SSG expressed concern about national security and corruption issues related to these workers.

The union's recommendations include:

* a "Normalization Initiative" led by experts from the public and private sectors;

* an in-depth national study of the problem;

* a pilot program to provide support to undocumented workers; and

* a summit of stakeholders to identify actions and solutions. 416-245-9520