Restaurants Canada VP says industry still struggling to find staff

‘Many might have decided to go to other industries that were less hard hit, like construction, or big box stores or grocery stores,’ says Luc Erjavec

HALIFAXtoday \  Chris Halef

Restaurants and bars in Halifax are still struggling to find staff.

That’s according to Luc Erjavec, the vice president of Restaurants Canada, who says it’s hard to bring back staff who were laid off during the pandemic.

Erjavec told NEWS 95.7 fill-in host Todd Veinotte many establishments were forced to shut down and focus on delivery rather than in person dining, which resulted in staff being let go.

“Many might have decided to go to other industries that were less hard hit, like construction, or big box stores or grocery stores,” he said.

With businesses reopened, Erjavec says it’s been a challenge to bring back staff.

“We didn’t do the traditional hiring spree that we do in the summer because we were closed this spring,” said Erjavec. “We didn’t know when we would reopen so employers were tentative to make commitments and we couldn’t guarantee hours or opportunities for employees.”

Erjavec says one of the biggest factors they’re competing with is federal assistance programs.

“If you can stay home and make an income without working, I think some people have chosen to do that,” he said.

He says the restaurant industry has traditionally employed new Canadians, adding that stream has been shut down for nearly two years due to pandemic related restrictions.