- By 2011, it is expected that Niagara will be largely dependent on internationally trained individuals for its labour force growth.
- Sectors such as healthcare and tourism are already experiencing critical need for skilled employees.
- While Niagara’s population growth is expected to slow in the coming years, its population is aging and baby boomers are retiring in large numbers.
- A low birth rate and youth out-migration add to concerns about labour force shortages in the years ahead.
- Attracting, recruiting and retaining immigrants into the workplace are critical for Niagara to overcome current and future need for both the skilled and unskilled workforce.
- The absence of a clear pathway to immigrant employment will lead Niagara’s businesses to deal with the looming skills shortage without an effective human resources strategy.
- Niagara needs initiatives like NIEC to bring stakeholders together to create awareness and develop strategies for the benefit of the region’s economy and economic and social life of its residents.
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