Quebec Facing Worker Shortage?

The labor shortage looms as one of the most crucial challenges for the decades to come, spanning a period of 10 to 20 years. To fully grasp the magnitude of this problem, it is essential to look at a few figures that reflect the situation:

Every year, we witness several significant elements.

1. First, 100,000 retirements occur, leaving behind vacant positions to be filled.

2. At the same time, approximately 80,000 young people enter the labor market, carrying considerable economic potential. However, the reality reminds us that only 40,000 of these young people are able to take this crucial step and embrace a professional career.

This demographic equation results in an annual deficit of 60,000 workers, a figure that cannot be ignored. Faced with this relentless reality, Quebec finds itself in a particularly precarious situation.

The worst of this labor shortage will occur, according to demographers' estimates, within a decade. The baby boomers will become elderly boomers, and will inevitably fade from the age pyramid. "Currently, what we are absorbing is the initial shock."

We are gradually shifting from a simple labor shortage to a true crisis, a transition that raises legitimate concerns. This situation exerts unprecedented pressure on businesses, forcing them to reassess and explore sustainable recruitment solutions.

Consequently, unemployment remains at historically low levels, and hiring conditions are being revised upwards. Conversely, the stability of the entire economic sphere is compromised.

One of the hardest truths to swallow in this paradigm shift is that Quebec is far from alone in having to drive its economy with fewer wheels on the carriage. The demographic shock is observed in 70% of populations worldwide.

This observation, combined with the aspirations of the new generations, leads us to envision an improved world of work, where each individual can truly flourish in their employment. The "consume and discard" model is outdated, making way for a more inclusive and sustainable perspective.

A global competition is therefore beginning for brains and pairs of arms. This global race for the next generation will sooner or later lead other nations to take an interest in the people here.

It is imperative to recognize the urgency of this situation and to act proactively to meet this colossal challenge. Employers, governments, and society as a whole must collaborate to create an environment conducive to the development and retention of the workforce, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for all.