Canada Announces $14.3 Million to Tackle Health Sector Labour Shortages

The Government of Canada has announced the provision of up to $14.3 million aimed at mitigating workforce shortages in the health sector. This financial initiative is managed by Employment and Social Development Canada, with the intent to facilitate the inclusion of internationally educated health care professionals into the Canadian workforce.

According to Employment and Social Development Canada, the investment will be allocated to four organizations, set to benefit more than 3,500 participants through activities such as work placements and wage subsidies. The intervention addresses ongoing challenges like long wait times and the risk of emergency room closures, which are attributed to staffing inadequacies.

Minister Steven MacKinnon, in his announcement, emphasized the importance of investing in the workforce to cater to the current and future needs of Canada's health care system.

This initiative is part of a broader effort under the 2024 Canadian Budget, which allocates $45.9 million over three years to the Foreign Credential Recognition Program, aimed at expediting the credential recognition process for skilled newcomers.