Bridging Labour Gaps in Agriculture: A Global Approach to Recruitment and Retention
Directpath Canada’s Comprehensive Services Ensure Seamless Settlement for Overseas Workers
In recent years, the agricultural industry in Canada has faced a persistent challenge: a shortage of skilled labor. The repercussions of this shortage are significant, with unfilled jobs during peak seasons leading to declines in sales and substantial financial losses for on-farm businesses. According to a recent survey by the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC), the job vacancy rate in agriculture is a staggering 7.4 percent during peak seasons, contributing to an estimated $3.5 billion in lost sales for the sector.
As the domestic labor gap is projected to increase by 15 percent over the next eight years, solutions are urgently needed. While efforts to educate the domestic workforce about the diverse opportunities within agriculture are underway, the industry is increasingly looking beyond national borders for viable solutions.
One such solution is the recruitment of foreign workers, a trend evidenced by a 30 percent increase in the employment of foreign workers in primary agriculture from 2017 to 2022. However, the benefits of increased immigration are hindered by challenges related to retention.
The Retention Challenge:
A report titled “The Leaky Bucket,” conducted by the Conference Board of Canada for the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, highlights a significant issue in the immigration strategy—31 percent of immigrants who arrive in Canada eventually leave for other countries. Moreover, fewer permanent residents are choosing to acquire Canadian citizenship within the first 10 years of their arrival, indicating a lack of perceived benefits of living in Canada.
Addressing the Retention Challenge:
To address the retention challenge, the report emphasizes the need for strategic investments in settlement services and programs that make immigration to Canada rewarding and enjoyable, particularly within the crucial first 10 years. This is where Directpath Canada plays a pivotal role.
Directpath Canada’s Role:
Directpath Canada specializes in global recruitment, immigration, and settlement services. Recognizing the importance of comprehensive settlement support, the company ensures that immigrants not only find employment but also experience a seamless transition into Canadian society.
- Settlement Programs – Directpath Canada offers tailored settlement programs that focus on the holistic well-being of immigrants during their initial years in Canada.
- Employer Support – Directpath Canada collaborates with employers to support them in recruiting, hiring, and retaining immigrant workers. This includes guidance on creating conducive work environments, competitive wages, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Community Integration – Acknowledging the role of rural communities in the settlement process, Directpath Canada works towards making these areas more welcoming for newcomers. This involves community engagement initiatives and programs that foster a sense of belonging.
As the agricultural industry seeks sustainable solutions to its labor shortages, the importance of strategic immigration is evident. However, the key lies not just in attracting foreign workers but in ensuring their successful integration and long-term commitment to Canada. Directpath Canada stands at the forefront, offering comprehensive services that address the challenges of recruitment, immigration, and settlement, thereby contributing to a thriving and resilient agricultural sector in the years to come.
Jon Eric de Belen, RCIC
