I think employers complain a lot about skill shortages. I think the government listens maybe a bit too much. The evidence is that any skill shortages are localized to certain occupations, certain industries, including, of course, the petroleum sector in Alberta. But the labour market should sort this out. It takes a bit of a time. IT has a great shortage right now.
I understand that the government's response would be to increase the funding for the skills development program, which I like. But, on the other hand, at some point you say, “Why don't employers go and train the workers that they need? Why should the government intervene?” I'm not convinced that we have enough evidence to say that there is market failure, that the government is responsible to train employers to resolve skill shortages.
I think employers are a bit too risk averse and should train more themselves. Having said that, sure, more training would be beneficial. The problem is that you don't have a crystal ball to know what occupation and industry will be in demand five years from now, or even two years from now, so it's a bit tricky.
If you want me to elaborate more, I will. I just don't know how much time we have.