An industry survey has revealed that Canada is set to spend up to C$110 billion on oilsands projects over the next few years, but the country’s labour crisis could prove to be a major stumbling block to the plans.

If the project is to remain on track, various skilled tradespeople such as engineers, pipe fitters, welders and insulators will be required, and recruiting professionals with Canadian skilled visas is the only feasible way of ensuring that such skills will be readily available.

The CAPP survey found that in the five years from 2007 to 2011, 70 percent more investment is expected in comparison to the amount spent on oilsands projects in the ten year period between 1996 and 2006. It also showed that a crunch period can be expected either in 2009 or 2010 at which point the correct quantities of equipment, materials and employees will be an absolute necessity, with recruitment through Canadian immigration a major priority.

“Unless something radical happens, it's impossible for the work to be done on schedule,” commented Herb Holmes, a manager for Construction Labour Relations in Edmonton. “By radical, I mean for example a huge influx of workers. Also needed would be tools, machining equipment, engineers. We are seeing shortages now and we are not yet at the peak.”