Oilpatch layoffs could trigger labour crunch

Today’s labour surplus in Canada’s energy sector could prove an even bigger problem down the road, when the current industry downturn fades and demand for workers begins its cyclical rebound.

At present, more layoffs are looming as companies keep multibillion-dollar oilsands projects on the shelf and hold off on natural gas drilling plans due to low prices.

Officials fear the gloomy outlook will prompt blue-collar and white-collar workers alike to leave the industry for less cyclical employment, spelling a return to costly labour shortages when conditions improve.
CalgaryHerald