Ontario and Nova Scotia have joined forces in a new initiative aimed at enhancing the mobility of skilled tradespeople between the two provinces, addressing labour shortages in critical sectors such as construction and infrastructure development.
The partnership was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the governments of Ontario and Nova Scotia. The agreement is designed to streamline certification processes and improve pathways for apprentices and journeypersons, making it easier for skilled trades professionals to work across provincial borders.
Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, David Piccini, emphasized the urgency of the initiative.
“With the ambitious infrastructure projects underway in Ontario, including the construction of highways, hospitals, and homes, we need to expand opportunities for apprentices and journeypersons to meet the growing demand for skilled trades,” Piccini said. He noted that this agreement builds on a similar MOU signed with Alberta last month and opens new avenues for collaboration with other Atlantic provinces.
Nova Scotia’s Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration, Jill Balser, highlighted the importance of the MOU in supporting the province’s economic growth.
“Nova Scotia is experiencing significant growth, and the demand for skilled trade workers to build essential infrastructure is greater than ever,” Balser said. “This agreement reflects our commitment to making bold decisions that enhance labour supply and ensure that qualified professionals are assessed fairly.”
The MOU between Ontario and Nova Scotia will undergo a review in 18 months to evaluate its effectiveness and explore further opportunities for collaboration. The initiative is part of broader efforts to harmonize skilled trades across Canada, complementing the ongoing work to align Red Seal trades nationally.
Melissa Young, CEO of Skilled Trades Ontario, echoed the ministers’ sentiments, stating, “The need for qualified skilled trades professionals is more critical now than ever before. This MOU supports our ongoing efforts to align Ontario’s apprenticeship programs with Red Seal trades across Canada, fostering a competitive workforce.”
Michael Sherrard, Chair of the Skilled Trades Ontario Board, added that the partnership is a strategic move to address both current and future needs for skilled tradespeople. “Together, we can enhance worker mobility and improve recruitment strategies to benefit both provinces,” Sherrard said.
Dave Cassidy, Skilled Trades Special Advisor, underscored the broader implications of the agreement. “By reducing interprovincial barriers for skilled tradespeople, we’re paving the way for a stronger Canadian workforce,” Cassidy said. “This partnership represents our commitment to developing a robust and diverse trades sector that meets today’s demands and prepares for future challenges.”
