The recent construction boom in Winnipeg has left a labor shortage in and around the region. Construction companies are now looking to supply the shortage with foreign workers with the help of the Winnipeg Construction Association (WCA).

The recent boom includes dozens of small and medium projects, with the larger ones including an IKEA store, the Canadian Museum of Human Rights, and a new stadium for the Blue Bombers. Even if these sites were halted, workers would probably be transferred to the Convention Centre which is being slated for renovation. Other planned projects include the Plessis Overpass and the current Bombers stadium renovation.

While workers from all regions are welcome, contractors are wary of hiring too many people too fast. New hires are needed at all these sites, but the higher priority is for more experienced craftsmen and supervisors to train and watch over these new hires.

In response to the shortage, the WCA has formed a committee to lobby the provincial government to temporarily allow more foreign construction crew to finish the projects. With the shortage the way it is, contractors are now worried that their current manpower supply won’t be able to finish the job on time. This petition is the last resort for the association to help its members reach out to more workers.