The Contribution of Indigenous People to Future Labour Force Growth in Canada: An Update

Abstract

The Canadian population is ageing quickly, putting downward pressure on labour force participation and ultimately on economic growth. However, the Indigenous population in Canada is relatively youthful and fast-growing, and could help offset some of these impacts, especially if participation rates were to rise to levels in the rest of the population. This report quantifies the potential contribution of Indigenous people to labour force growth in Canada over 2021-2041 using various Statistics Canada population growth scenarios and 2021 Census participation rate estimates. Indigenous people are found to contribute 10 per cent of future labour force growth nationally in a medium-growth scenario, rising to 15 per cent if the participation rate gap were closed.

Download full PDF report