IMMIGRATION
As labour shortages persist, immigration policy will continue to play a central role in shaping Manitoba’s workforce, something that businesses must continue to make the case for to policy and decision-makers.
encouraging them to speak up to let decision-makers know that immigra- tion is a solution needed to address Manitoba’s labour shortage. “I think what Manitoba businesses and Manitoba labour have to do is to tell their story about why we still need foreign workers here and pair that story with what we’re doing to make and create opportunities for people who are already here — Canadian citizens, permanent residents and temporary foreign workers,” Pagtakhan says. “It’s not like we’re bringing in people because there’s a Canadian next door or the next street over that’s qualified. We’re bringing them in to feed the industries that we need to grow here.” ■
Then, consider applying to multiple programs at the same time if you have the time and financial wherewithal to do so and see which one pans out best. “Look at federal solutions; look at provincial solutions. You want to get it as fast as you can under what- ever solution works,” Pagtakhan says. “Essentially, what you’re dealing with here is the immigration Hunger Games.” As labour shortages persist, immi- gration policy will continue to play a central role in shaping Manitoba’s workforce, something that businesses must continue to make the case for to policy and decision-makers. Pagtakhan advises businesses to continue to adapt — and to advocate — as the system evolves,
10
SUMMER 2026
Powered by FlippingBook