Quebec Government Economic Update

Aéro Montréal Welcomes the Government’s Commitment to Address the Labour Shortage and Stimulate Economic Growth

Montréal, November 25, 2021 – Aéro Montréal is pleased with the government’s commitment to taking concrete measures to counter the ongoing labour shortage and stimulate economic growth in the province. As Quebec’s economy regains momentum, the significant investment of $3.4 billion in new initiatives over the next five years is a clear message that the government strongly supports the province’s strategic and vital economic sectors.

Attracting, Developing, and Retaining the Workforce

Quebec continues to face a severe labour shortage that, for now, shows no sign of improvement. The difficult situation, which had already affected many sectors before the pandemic — including aerospace — has only worsened since. By investing $2.9 billion to train, retrain, and attract workers in key sectors, the government confirms its intention to support businesses in developing a qualified workforce and ensuring post-pandemic economic recovery. Hundreds of jobs are currently available and will need to be filled in the months and years ahead, including in the aerospace industry. The government’s support for attracting and retaining both local and international students and workers is certainly welcome news.

Stimulating Economic Growth and Supporting the First Innovation Zones

In its economic update, the government reiterated that “the prosperity of Quebec depends on its ability to innovate and transform the knowledge and expertise of Quebecers into wealth.” To strengthen conditions for innovation and highlight Quebec ingenuity, the government announced support for the deployment of the first innovation zones. The additional investment of $100 million over three years — in addition to the $40 million previously announced — is excellent news and demonstrates the government’s clear intention to position Quebec as a global hub for innovation, investment attraction, and a showcase of Quebec engineering.

Aéro Montréal, Quebec’s aerospace cluster, has already submitted a proposal for a Quebec Aerospace Innovation Zone, bringing together more than 100 partners across three key hubs: Mirabel, Longueuil, and Saint-Laurent. This zone will leverage the participation of diverse regional socio-economic stakeholders, including businesses, economic development organizations, research and educational institutions, and municipalities.

“Faced with the labour shortage currently affecting the aerospace industry, Aéro Montréal welcomes the measures aimed at attracting, developing, and retaining talent and improving the productivity of Quebec businesses. By placing labour shortages, economic growth, and innovation at the heart of its priorities, the government is reinforcing its commitment to making Quebec a showcase of local know-how and a global leader in innovation,” said Suzanne M. Benoît, President and CEO of Aéro Montréal.