No it is not a requirement.
As with most things, when you know somebody who can recommend you, it makes things easier. It also goes the other way of course, people who will not recommend you can work against you...
Here is a link to apply.
Good luck, we'll be hiring constantly throughout 2008 and 2009.
http://www.workopolis.com/work.aspx?...no%3d0&OldUrl=