Ontario's construction sector faces a shortage of 72,000 workers, driven by high retirement rates and booming demand for housing and infrastructure.
Over 80,000 workers are set to retire in the next decade, needing more new workers to fill their positions.
This shortage could leave about 118,900 construction positions vacant by 2033.
The government is investing $3.6 million in projects to prepare 2,200 women and young people for careers in construction.
Meanwhile, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation states that Canada needs 5.8 million new homes for affordable housing, but current construction rates could only supply 2.3 million units by 2030.
#Ontario, #Labour_shortages, #construction_workers
November 17, 2023
There has been a considerable increase in the number of international students choosing to further their studies in Canada recently.
This influx enhances the cultural diversity on campuses throughout the country and significantly impacts the education system, economy, and the communities that host these students.
The growing multicultural environment within educational institutions enriches the learning experience for both local and international students.
The increased revenues from international tuition fees also help to improve the quality of education and research in Canadian institutions.
Additionally, this trend contributes to the local economy as students spend on housing, food, and other living expenses.
#International_students, #Study_in_Canada, #Canadian_education
https://www.international.gc.ca/education/strategy-2019-2024-strategie.aspx?lang=eng
November 17, 2023
The Ontario Government plans to amend the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) to increase eligibility for international students.
The proposed legislation focuses on revising requirements for those in one-year college graduate certificate programs, with over 900 such programs across the province.
This offers international students who previously considered moving to other provinces a better chance for permanent residency.
The changes, possibly approved next week and implemented early next year, also ban Canadian work experience as a job prerequisite, facilitating more qualified candidates to progress in the interview process.
#Ontario, #OINP, #international_students, #PR
November 17, 2023
The Canadian Centre to End Human Traffic and Covenant House Vancouver praised Ottawa's new immigration strategy but criticized its failure to fully address human trafficking and exploitation of newcomers and migrant workers.
Both organizations identified gaps in the system last year and commended the Government for including many of their suggestions.
However, they expressed disappointment with the omission of critical actions like open work permits, family reunification, and a permanent residency pathway for low-wage migrant workers and urged immediate implementation of these measures.
#IRCC, #human_trafficking, #exploitation, #foreign_workers
November 17, 2023