FSW is still a very relevant program to attract foreign talent to Canada, however, given the pandemic and current job market I think it makes a lot of sense they’re trying to make PR easier for those already living and working in Canada rather than bringing more competition to the job market.
FSW is extremely competitive because the entry requirements are the easiest to achieve compared to the other streams, but most people have low scores hence won’t get an ITA unless they improve their profiles.
Immigration is meant to benefit Canada, not the immigrant.
It doesn’t matter how prepared you are, the original premise of Express Entry was to prove an immigrant could get a job in Canada upon arrival and then be given the opportunity to get PR within 6 months (yes, that hasn’t aged very well).
People under CEC or the newer immigration streams also have their own struggles, being a TFW feels at times like being a pariah: employers are hesitant to hire you, can’t lease or finance a car, you won’t get a good unsecured credit card even with a +750 credit score, can’t apply for loans or mortgages, can’t renew health card online and to apply for one you need a lot of documents...Every day is a constant reminder that you’re paying taxes but you can still get kicked out anytime.
TFW have their own settlement struggles as well, but once you get your COPR, you’re in and no one will take that from you. So my unsolicited advice for those with high scores and waiting for FSW to resume is to be patient and prepare for your life in Canada, save as much money as possible and get your priorities set once you come to Canada. Where to move? Do you need a car..? Do you need any license or exam to work?