The fertility rate in Canada reached a record low in 2020.

According to data from Statistics Canada, the fertility rate dropped from 1.47 in 2019 to 1.40 in 2020.

Statistics showed that fertility rates have been steadily declining in Canada since 2009. Susan McDaniel, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Victoria, says this should not be a cause for concern.

McDaniel, whose research focuses on demographic change, told CTVNews.ca: "Declining birth rates worldwide is a good thing."

“Basically, it’s better for children and for parents if there are fewer children; it’s better for society, the planet, and everything else.”

Statistics Canada says 2020 also saw the lowest number of births since 2007, as well as the largest annual drop in births since 1997. Meanwhile, the average age of Canadian mothers at childbirth rose slightly to 31.3.

Fertility rates were lowest in British Columbia and Nova Scotia, and highest in Nunavut and Saskatchewan.

Despite the decline in total births in Canada, the population continues to grow. The 2021 census showed Canada's population increased by 5.2 percent, the fastest rate among the Group of Seven countries.

McDaniel said: “The census shows we are growing, not because of increased fertility or contributions to fertility, but due to immigration.”

According to Statistics Canada, nearly a quarter of people aged 15 to 49 changed their fertility plans because of the COVID-19 pandemic, with most reporting they intend to delay having children.

Anna Ferrier, an economics professor at the University of Waterloo, told CTVNews.ca: "It is not uncommon for fertility rates to decline during times of economic hardship or social uncertainty."

“In the coming years, as the economy recovers, we might expect to see some rebound in fertility rates, especially if the future workforce includes more opportunities for remote interaction and flexible schedules, which may help women better balance family and work.”