The video features a discussion during the 2026 Mineral Industry Showcase in Gander, primarily focused on the human resources challenges facing the mining sector in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Key Participants
- Alan Dale: Representing Gale Force Winds, the Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce, and the town of Gander.
- Paul Shelley: Former Minister of Immigration and current representative of Work Global Canada.
Discussion Highlights
- Human Resources and Immigration:
- Work Global Canada Inc. is an immigration recruitment company serving various sectors, including mining, healthcare, the fishery, and hospitality.
- The province faces a significant demographic challenge with an aging population and a low birth rate of approximately 1.5 children per couple.
- Shelley notes that some companies, such as fish plants, would not have been able to open without the assistance of foreign workers.
- While the company’s policy is to look for local Newfoundland and Labrador workers first, the demand often exceeds the local supply during industry upticks.
- Mining Industry Outlook:
- Shelley expresses significant excitement regarding the mining sector, specifically mentioning potential in Central Newfoundland, the Baie Verte Peninsula, and Labrador.
- Key projects and areas of interest mentioned include Firefly, New Found Gold, and the Hammerdown projects.
- The industry is currently driven by high gold prices and a global need for copper.
- Industry Services:
- Brief mentions are made of industry service providers like Rally Drilling Services, which provides core drilling for gold exploration, reverse circulation drilling, and specialty barge work in environmentally sensitive areas.
The labor shortage in Newfoundland and Labrador is driven by a significant demographic shift characterized by the following factors:
- Aging Population: The province has the most rapidly aging population per capita in North America.
- Retiring Workforce: A large generation of baby boomers is currently reaching retirement age.
- Low Birth Rate: The birth rate has declined significantly to approximately 1.5 children per couple. This is contrasted with historical rates that were as high as six to eight children per couple.
- Thriving Economy: The demographic decline is occurring at the same time the economy is thriving and growing, particularly in the mining industry, which further increases the demand for workers.