S t a t e o f t h e L i t e racy and Essential Skills Field
Provincial governments have taken on increased responsibility for labour markets through the devolution of labour market programming and the development of Provincial Nominee Programs. Labour markets in Atlantic Canada are undergoing a profound shift from high unemployment to increased concern about a skills mismatch and a shortage of workers. Policymakers need to ensure that their strategies and programs are responsive to changing labour market requirements; consistent and well integrated; and appropriately focused. Governments can also help to facilitate dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that Atlantic labour markets work efficiently and are appropriately adjusting to changing realities.
likely to continue to do so until about 2015 when a decline is forecasted. Among the most significant labour market challenges facing Newfoundland and Labrador are labour shortages associated with underemployment and aging. Literacy and Essential Skills training initiatives can play a role in addressing these forecasted labour market shortages.
Labour Market trends in Newfoundland and Labrador
For the last thirty years Newfoundland and Labrador has had the weakest job growth in the Atlantic region. It took more than a decade for employment levels in the province to recover from the recession of the 1990s and the restructuring following the collapse of the cod fishery. However, the province has had the fastest job growth in the Atlantic region during the last two years, boosted by new investment in its mining and energy industries – a trend that is likely to continue for a few more years at least. Newfoundland and Labrador faces imbalances in labour market supply, with fewer people entering the labour force and large numbers of retirees. A recent report from the Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment predicted 7,700 new jobs will be created from 2011 to 2020, of which approximately 67% will be in management and require some form of postsecondary education180. The resource and construction sectors continue to grow and are
Labour Market trends in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is facing a time of change and opportunity. Winning the $25 billion shipbuilding contract will provide great opportunities, however there are some challenges. Nova Scotia’s economic stability is tied to its ability to compete and respond to changes in the global market. Nova Scotia requires an adaptable workforce that is strong in numbers and in skills. jobsHere highlights actions the government will take to promote long-term sustainable economic growth and job opportunities for Nova Scotians. It focuses on three priority areas: 4 learning the right skills for good jobs 4 growing the economy through innovation 4 helping businesses be more competitive globally
Newfoundland and Labrador Market Outlook 2020, Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Human Resources. Labour and Employment, 2011 180
page 92