Canada does not have a labour market information system that can support a coherent model of transition into employment. Labour market information is too fragmented, relies too much on networking, and is not comprehensive or widely available. As a result, opportunities are limited. We recommend the creation of a new labour market information system that is available, comprehensive, relevant, and accessible. Fully aware that additional administrative burdens cannot be imposed on employers, we recommend using new technologies and personal computers to build this new system.

Key recommendations:

  1. We recommend that the CLFDB initiate the establishment of a national employment opportunities database -- an instant electronic listing of job opportunities filed by employers. Building from local databases, all job opportunities in the country would be listed along with details about skills and competencies expected.

  2. We recommend that Human Resources Development (HRD), through the Canada Employment Centres (CECs), develop a job seekers database -- a comprehensive listing of all individuals seeking jobs, not only those eligible for unemployment insurance (UI). This database would be electronically accessible to all employers looking for employees and would contain information currently collected by CECs through their routine processing of UI claims as well as information collected from community agencies dealing with clients ineligible for UI or requiring other specialized services best provided by these agencies.

  3. We recommend that HRD coordinate the development of a hirings and separations database, classified by occupation and industry. This information should be generated regularly and disseminated widely to increase understanding of employment patterns and trends. The database could be compiled from existing sources, such as tax remittance forms for hirings and records of employment for separations, and should use occupation and industry codes based on the National Occupational Classification and the Standard Industrial Classification.