Saskatchewan employers reach across pond for talent

Employers, province repeating trip to Ireland, U.K. in search of high-skill candidates

Employers in Saskatchewan are making another journey across the pond in an effort to recruit workers — setting up shop in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

The province’s Ministry of the Economy and 13 employers are attending the Working Abroad Expo in Dublin March 2-3; Cork on March 6; and some will also exhibit in Manchester, U.K., March 9-10.

More than 10,000 candidates are expected to attend the job fairs, including qualified candidates in trades, engineering and health sciences, the province said.

“There is significant labour mobility in Ireland and a high unemployment rate,” Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. “People are looking for jobs and Saskatchewan has a labour shortage. It’s a perfect opportunity for us to fill critical, high-skilled positions that have not been successfully filled by recruitment initiatives in Canada.”

In 2012 (see story below for more information), Saskatchewan welcomed more than 290 Irish families to the province following a recruitment mission.

This year, employers are looking to find at least 80 high-skilled workers, for positions such as heavy duty mechanics, welders, engineers and machinists among other occupations.

The provincial government said Saskatchewan is expected to need between 75,000 and 90,000 new workers in the next five years.

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