Looking, and Looking, for Work

Among the long-term unemployed (more than six months) during the late 1990s and early 2000s, chances of finding a job were less for those who were social assistance beneficiaries (47% less chance), aged 56 or older (-39%), or immigrants (-21%).

On the other hand, during the same period, chances of finding a job were greater for long-term unemployed who were aged 16 to 25 (35% more), living in the Prairies (+35%), receiving Employment Insurance benefits (+21%), or primary household maintainers (+16%).

Except for being an immigrant, the factors for long-term unemployment were also observed for short-term unemployment. In addition, chances for the short-term unemployed were influenced by education level; having at least two years' labour market experience; being a woman, visible minority, or Aboriginal person; and having a disability.

Source: Statistics Canada