Transport Canada wants to better understand the possible impacts of labour shortages in Canada’s marine transportation sector and is seeking feedback on possible solutions. With 43% of the marine workforce retiring over the next 10 years, including 52% of engineering officers and 47% of deck officers, there will be a need to hire roughly 19,000 new workers over the next 10 years, which represents 68% of the workforce. Vacancy rates for deck officers are around 7%, followed by 6% for engineering officers – higher than the national average of 4%. A Let’s Talk Transportation consultation has been launched to continue engaging Canadians. The consultation is available until April 30, 2023.
