Roadmap focuses on worker preparation, skills development, international recruitment
Saskatchewan has launched a labour market strategy to ensure that employers can fill the job openings they have in the province.
"A strong labour force drives healthy economies and successful communities," says Premier Scott Moe.
"The Labour Market Strategy is our roadmap to secure a labour force that keeps pace with growing demands and opportunities of our economy. Through strategic investments that align Saskatchewan's workforce with the needs of industry, we are ensuring that investment into our province is supported and that growth translates into a better quality of life for Saskatchewan people."
Canada had a total of 637,400 job vacancies in December 2023, the third consecutive month of little change, according to Statistics Canada (StatCan).
Pillars of labour market strategy
The Workforce for a Growing Economy: the Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy focuses in three main pillars:
- Preparing Saskatchewan People for Jobs: To do this, the provincial government is providing a “pathfinding service to employers” that develops workforce planning solutions. The government also maintains its Indigenous and Northern Labour Market Services team that serves Saskatchewan’s northern employers and job seekers, among other programs.
- Recognizing Skills in Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan passed The Labour Mobility and Fair Practices Act that created the authority for the government to work with regulators to cut through red tape experienced by newcomers. It also established the Labour Mobility and Fair Registration Practices Office which will be the nucleus of the new Saskatchewan Credential Recognition Service.
- International Recruitment: The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) enables Saskatchewan to nominate up to 8,500 skilled workers for permanent residency in Canada by 2025. This will result in more than 21,000 newcomers to Saskatchewan, who will contribute to our diverse and growing population annually.
“As the province continues to experience record growth and investment, Saskatchewan is well-positioned to address current and future labour force needs by equipping residents with the education and training needed to meet demand,” reads part of the government’s labour market strategy.
Job seekers from outside Canada have shown far greater interest in coming to work in the country, according to a previous Indeed report.
‘Growth of the agricultural manufacturing industry’
Two groups have already expressed support for Saskatchewan’s laour market strategy.
"The Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada (AMC) are proud to support the Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, sharing a common mission to cultivate, advocate, and collaborate for the growth of the agricultural manufacturing industry in Canada," says Donna Boyd, AMC President.
"Recognizing the pivotal role of a robust labour force in fostering healthy economies and communities, our strategic investments and Careers in Ag initiative mirror the province's commitment to aligning the workforce with industry needs. AMC echoes the strategy's inclusive approach, supporting initiatives to increase Indigenous engagement and enhance opportunities for persons with disabilities. We stand united in reducing barriers and fostering an environment where newcomers to the agricultural manufacturing sector can contribute their skills, enriching our industry."
“CFIB is pleased to see the @SKGov release their Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, addressing workforce needs for employers. This is timely, as labor shortages remain the biggest growth constraint for SK small businesses,” the group said via X.
Canada’s job market added 37,300 jobs in January, according to StatCan.
