On February 13, Chuck Davidson, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) President and CEO, and Nick Gamble, Policy Analyst, met with Hon. Malaya Marcelino, Manitoba’s Labour and Immigration Minister. The meeting was centered around several key areas related to the future of Manitoba’s workforce and ensuring that industry has the talent to drive businesses forward. The meeting was the start of a positive working relationship to ensure that the immigration programs are providing Manitoba businesses with skilled immigrants who are provided the necessary supports to thrive once they settle in the province. The MCC looks forward to continuing these important discussions and collaborating on solutions for Manitoba’s workforce challenges.
Key Takeaways
Business Outlook and Workforce Issues
The MCC presented the results of the 2023 Manitoba Business Outlook Survey, with a specific focus on workforce issues emphasizing the importance of utilizing immigration strategically and effectively to ensure that Manitoba companies have the talent they need for the future.
Immigrant Retention Improvement
Minister Marcelino expressed the desire to improve immigrant retention by attracting immigrants with families and ensuring there are adequate wraparound services to get families properly settled in our province. MCC noted support for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the desire to expand this program.
Building Manitoba’s International Talent Pipeline
Minister Marcelino expressed the desire for improved labour market information, something that MCC has been advocating for since 2017. With improved identification of the needs of communities, businesses, and industries, targeted international recruitment can provide candidates that better align with local needs and improve outcomes for both businesses and immigrants.
The Manitoba Advantage
MCC also expressed that for Manitoba to be better able to attract foreign workers, Manitoba needs to do a better job telling the story of the advantages of settling here. Minister Marcelino was supportive of MCC developing a cohesive narrative that can be shared to better attract high quality candidates for our province.
