This is an excellent topic. Very frustrating, mind.
As with all things 'regulated', in most cases, the Regulating Authority holds the big stick. That is, what quals and exp will they accept from foreign pilots before they issue LVCs for a 'local' licence? In most cases, THEY set the requirement for the local carrier hiring foreign pilots. Which only serves to protect local pilots' jobs (or future jobs).
What do we Canadian pilots do to protect our own limited market? Based on personal observation, I'd say not much.
Compounding the problem when using these idiotic 'agencies' is the recency or currency or PPC issues that ALWAYS come up. If you aren't current, you can pretty much forget it! If you can't submit a PPC, forget it! Even though here in Canada you can't get a PPC unless you fly for an Air Carrier.
Catch 22 my friend.
...and PARC spelled backwards is???
The tide will turn.
