Meat cutters
The meat council has expressed concern with a shortage of nearly 3,000 meat cutters with Ottawa being profoundly affected with approximately 1000 vacancies. The deficit has made many companies unable to operate at full capacity and unable to increase exports in the past year. Also, many companies can’t find Canadians who are willing to work in slaughterhouses which have highly prevented companies from taking advantage of available opportunities.
Farm workers
Agriculture being the primary industry in Canada, the country is facing a more significant challenge in maintaining its production levels as it is affected by climate. The sector employs nearly 2 million people including foreigners, and it is responsible for 6.6% of the country’s GDP and annual revenues of $108 billion.
The newest challenge of the industry is labor shortage. A major reason for the labor shortage in the agricultural industry is rural-urban migrations. Additionally, although cattle caring is a full-time job, most agricultural jobs are physical, strenuous and seasonal with few permanent jobs; thus few people are willing to take them.
As an agricultural and Agri-Food export leader, the labor shortage is a threatening factor in Canada’s Global market position. Due to the scarcity and the inability to meet its domestic demands, the industry is operating at 70% capacity.
