Same but worse here in the UK. Low cost airlines are now charging for type ratings, and line training! As a result experienced pilots can't get jobs when laid off without going to the Middle or Far East. Despite having experience on turbo props (Twin Otters & Saabs),and 737s, and 5.500 total time I have been on the dole for 14 months now, and only had 2 interviews.
Sad to hear that the problems are similar in Canada, especially as I did my training in Manitoba after getting bitten by the aviation bug in the Antarctic with both out own pilots, and some crews from Borek who got stranded at our base for 3 weeks.
Good luck for the hockey final this evening
