New Brunswick Forest Industry Labour Profile [Atlantic Provinces Economic Council, APEC]

The forest labour force in New Brunswick has changed significantly over the last decade. Employment grew strongly in the late 1990’s led by growth in the wood products sector, but growth has stalled in recent years. The unemployment rate has declined but remains high. The potential local supply of labour for the forest industry is dwindling due to demographic factors such as slow population growth, an aging population and migration of young people to the cities. These demographic forces will create increasing pressure as the industry seeks ways to replace retiring workers and to support any future expansion. A number of potential sources of labour are discussed in this report, but the competition for these workers will be strong.