As part of the City of Powell River’s ongoing support for the business community in Powell River and qathet region, it will host workshops on immigration as a workable solution to the labour crunch.
According to a media release from the city, representatives from the BC provincial nominee program, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will conduct the workshops that will provide an overview of how their programs can assist employers in rural communities where labour shortages are most acute.
“Like most of the country and province, our region is experiencing labour shortages across multiple sectors,” stated Scott Randolph, city director of properties, development and communications. “One possible solution is attracting workers from outside of Canada, but many employers see this as a time-consuming and difficult process. However, recent changes in immigration programs have made it easier than you think to source the employees you’re searching for.”
December 2022 statistics from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce point to around one in three businesses are currently facing labour shortages, the release stated. In construction, and food and accommodation, two key sectors in Powell River’s economy, along with health care, the numbers are higher.
“We encourage all businesses and non-profit agencies to take advantage of these free events and the opportunity to interact with the provincial and federal governments about available programs that can assist in alleviating the labour crunch,” stated Randolph.
Two workshops, at 2 pm and 7 pm, will be held on February 22, at Town Centre Hotel. Preregistration is open by emailing [email protected].
