The housing crisis and economic and social development in Canada: the case of the region of Abitibi-Témiscamingue

The housing crisis in Abitibi-Témiscamingue has persisted for over fifteen years, characterized by a housing shortage and limited access to affordable housing. This article contributes to understanding how this housing crisis is directly linked to regional labour shortages, particularly by impeding recruitment efforts in a context where the labour replacement index is below one. Using a mixed-method approach, researchers conducted a descriptive analysis of statistical data on housing, industry, employment, and the workforce. Additionally, individual interviews with regional businesses assessed the crisis’s effects on operations, recruitment, and employee retention. Findings indicate that while most companies did not perceive a direct impact, 39 % reported employees facing housing-related difficulties, such as delays in securing accommodations or resignations due to shortages. The crisis was found to affect recruitment more than retention, especially when hiring international workers. Almost halfof the surveyed companies had to reduce their opening hours due to labor shortages, while a third refused contracts because of recruitment challenges. Some businesses resorted to subcontracting, adjusting workloads, or limiting services to manage workforce constraints.