LETTER: Concerned Officer Warns of Chaos and Poor Leadership in Immigration Department

Dear Editor,

Working in immigration is a bittersweet experience. I love my job—meeting new people, learning about different cultures, and playing a role in protecting our country’s borders. However, the reality within our department is troubling, and the public needs to be aware of the struggles we face daily.

For over 15 years, I have watched the same cycle repeat itself. When problems arise, the solution is always to hire new officers. This might address 5% of the issues, but before long, these new officers uncover the long-standing problems that have been swept under the rug, and we find ourselves right back at square one. Immigration needs real help—proper guidance and leadership from those at the top.

Officers, particularly those stationed at the airport, are overworked and exhausted. The department is in chaos, with infighting among staff, and the situation worsens by the day.

The minister, the chief, and senior officials remain disconnected from the reality on the ground. They conduct no meaningful interviews, ask no questions, and instead resort to anger and victimization.

Rather than strengthening and improving the department, leadership is distracted by everything but the core mission—securing our borders. Officers are mistreated, and the job has become more about politics than public service. If you stand up for yourself or fall out of favor, you become a target. Promotions and opportunities are granted based on personal connections rather than merit.

Basic necessities are being ignored. Officers have gone years without receiving new uniforms, and new recruits are not even properly equipped to carry out their duties. Instead of addressing these major concerns, management is preoccupied with minor, trivial issues that do nothing to improve efficiency or morale.

Poor leadership has led to ineffective communication, micromanagement, silencing of officers, and outright belittlement. This toxic work environment has resulted in decreased productivity and an increase in sick calls. Yet, rather than focusing on solutions, leadership resorts to threats—officers face the risk of being fired or transferred at the minister’s discretion. This approach is not only unfair but counterproductive.

Immigration officers deserve better. We need proper leadership, fair treatment, and the tools to do our jobs effectively. It is time for real change before the department collapses under the weight of its unresolved issues.

A Concerned Immigration Officer

*Sent from an anonymous officer*

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