A report released by the Canadain Federation of Independent Businesses says there are more than 400,000 vacant jobs across Canada.
Here in BC, we are at the top of the vacant jobs list across the nation at 3.8%, which accounts for over 60,000 jobs.
So how do we fare here in the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District when it comes to these numbers? Here’s Richard Truscott with the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses explaining the correlation.
“Generally in the North, the job vacancy rate is higher and that has to do with a couple different things. We’re noticing a lot of rural communities are having a tough time finding qualified employees due to their unique location and geography. People also find bigger cities more attractive or appealing and that is why the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District would struggle to fill these voids.”
The report said the industries that struggle the most in Canada are the construction and personal servicing sector. Truscott says those numbers reflect accurately on the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District.
Truscott says he has one final message for residents of the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District.
“Ultimately this is one of those stories that has positive and negative implications. Although we may have a high job vacancy rate in BC, it’s good news because it shows the economy is growing. For small businesses, this news is a bit of a downer because it means they are not able to find the skilled workers they need. Policy makers in Ottawa need to find a better way to align the needs of employers with the skills and experience of the people in this country. This is an important issue that needs to be addressed.”