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By CKOM News

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Transportation issues could have impact on holiday shopping in Sask.

Oct 18, 2021 | 3:18 PM

Holiday shopping season is right around the corner, but getting what you need could be more challenging than in years past.

That’s according to Susan Ewart with the Saskatchewan Trucking Association.

Ewart said there are a few factors that could make stuffing stockings more of a headache.

“The labour shortages across the country are definitely causing supply chain challenges,” Ewart said. “We’re hearing from members that they are placing orders and (are) not going to receive equipment they need until 2023.

“All of these things compounding could mean we see some serious supply change disruptions.”

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The shortage of truck drivers in Canada is an issue that needs provincial governments working together, according to Ewart.

She said the industry as a whole needs more funding for training, adding it lacks the level of funding similar to other fields of work in the country.

“We need to work together with governments in order to sort of come up with some creative ways to try and solve some of these things,” Ewart said. “We certainly have been talking to our government about accessing training dollars.

“I think if you look at the economic outlook and the top jobs that have the most vacancies, I believe trucking is at least No. 2.”

For Ewart, it’s important to get people interested in pursuing a career path as a truck driver.

“We need to get that next generation of Canadians into the driver’s seat,” she said.

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