One should not leave in illusion. Based on my best man's and dozens of people' (that he knows) experience this is still true today. Without Canadian education, experience, or at least international certificates for one's field, it is difficult. I assume that for IT profession and some of the engineers, there are better prospects even wihout above mentioned.
Btw, he has lived in Toronto for the past four years. In order to work in his field he completed Master's diploma in Canada, obtained Teacher's college degree and learned French. As I already wrote, I might depend on your profession.