Articles tagged with "Workforce"

The Bank of Canada has lowered its key overnight financing rate to 2.25%, with an official discount rate at 2.50%. Global economies show signs of slowing due to trade tensions, although the American economy has gained from investments in artificial intelligence. In Canada, the economy contracted in the second quarter, and the labor market remains weak with a 7.1% unemployment rate.

Martin Ouellet, CEO of STC Manufacturer in Saguenay, is frustrated by the chaotic situation concerning temporary foreign workers. He employs 12 foreign workers, might lose one, and cannot recruit new ones. The situation is described as a 'mess,' affecting the management of his custom steel frames and doors manufacturing business.

The Quebec government has announced a $165 million investment to construct a new pavilion at Cégep Édouard-Montpetit. This project aims to address the growing space shortage due to a significant increase in student enrollment. The five-story building will house school clinics and is expected to be completed by 2029.

The Réseau express métropolitain (REM) has announced the Deux-Montagnes line will begin service on November 17, 2025, following several delays. The line will connect downtown Montreal and the North Shore with trains running every 5 to 7 minutes. An adjusted schedule allows for continued testing for the Anse-à-l’Orme branch, set for spring completion. Artwork has been integrated into the stations, with final tests underway to ensure quality service.

With the rise of telecommuting, many organizations are adopting a hybrid model that combines in-person and remote work. This shift is affecting the design of commercial office furniture, which is now embracing a collaborative hybrid style. Furniture must now adapt to these new flexible work environments.

A new Hilton hotel is being constructed in Cowansville with an initial phase of 74 rooms, potentially expanding by 30 to 40 more rooms. The hotel aims to provide a high-end experience with a local touch. These details were shared by real estate developer Franco San Gregorio in an interview.

Quebec's lumber producers are facing challenges due to additional import taxes imposed by the United States. Already burdened by high tariffs of 35%, an additional 10% levy exacerbates the economic difficulties for these companies. Options being considered include reducing activities or suspending operations. The Canadian domestic market may provide a partial solution, but it is not enough to compensate for current losses.

The Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine Tunnel and the Honoré-Mercier Bridge will be closed at night due to construction work. These closures are necessary for maintenance and improvements. The nighttime closures aim to minimize daytime traffic impacts. Motorists are advised to plan their routes accordingly.

The Consortium of Pomerleau and Aecon has initiated preparatory work for the Montreal Port Authority's terminal expansion project in Contrecœur. This $609 million project includes constructing berths and dock infrastructure to enhance Canada's supply chain. Completion is scheduled for 2030, with the terminal expected to handle up to 1.15 million TEUs annually. The development includes significant job creation and aims to boost the local and national economy.

Desjardins, Groupe Meloche, and ALI Excavation have announced significant donations to support engineering education at Cégep de Valleyfield. With a total contribution of $577,500, these companies aim to enhance access to quality education in the Montérégie-Ouest region. The 'Invest in Local Genius' campaign targets raising $1,000,000 to equip the new facilities under construction, with $838,000 already raised towards the goal.

The governments of Quebec and Canada, along with the City of Quebec and the Municipal Housing Office of Quebec City, have inaugurated the Zenith, a building comprising 108 social and affordable housing units. This project, valued at over $50.2 million, includes 31 units dedicated to young people transitioning to independent living. It was made possible by financial contributions from governments and local organizations. The OMHQ will oversee the building's management and upkeep.

The Syndicat des Métallos criticizes a report by coroner Arnaud Samson that advises limiting the use of road flaggers in favor of technological solutions. The union argues that these recommendations threaten thousands of road flagger jobs in Quebec. They are urgently requesting a meeting with the Transport Minister to halt these recommendations. However, the union supports measures to improve road safety, such as increased police monitoring.