CME Calls for Political Parties to Act on Labour Shortages

OTTAWA (SEPTEMBER 4, 2019)

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) released today its list of 10 key recommendations to accelerate the growth of Canada’s manufacturing sector and boost the economy.

“As Canada heads towards a federal election, it is critical political parties understand the importance of the manufacturing sector as the engine of Canada’s economic growth,” said Dennis Darby, President & CEO of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters. “Almost one out of three Canadian families rely on the manufacturing sector. Collectively manufacturers employ 1.7 million Canadians, are responsible for two-thirds of Canada’s export sales and produce 10 per cent of the GDP. With the right support, the manufacturing sector’s positive impact could grow exponentially.”

“Regardless of who wins the election, the first issue the next government needs to address is the availability of skilled labour. Two-thirds of manufacturers have issues today finding the workers they need and 75 per cent expect significant labour shortages in the next five years. This crisis is affecting manufacturers’ ability to perform and grow operations across the country. Solving this problem requires improving programs to both attract and train Canadian workers and, to welcome more immigrants to Canada. Our own survey results show 90 per cent of Canadians support the government taking steps on this important issue.”

“These sub-optimal business conditions are affecting our members’ ability to compete internationally in every province. Manufacturers like Carte Electric who makes electrical transformers  in Manitoba, are tell us the lack of available workers is restricting their our ability to grow production and, sell more products.

“After they learned about the contributions of the sector, 82 per cent of Canadians surveyed recently, said growth in the manufacturing sector will factor into their voting decision this fall. We hope the political parties listen.”