Canada’s labour market ministers have agreed to fast-track initiatives that will make it easier for workers to move between provinces and get their credentials recognized, as governments work to strengthen the domestic economy amid potential trade disruptions.
The Federal, Provincial and Territorial Forum of Labour Market Ministers met virtually Monday to discuss progress on breaking down labour mobility barriers. The meeting was co-chaired by Federal Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu and Nova Scotia’s Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration Nolan Young.
Progress on credential recognition timeline
Ministers said concrete progress has been made on labour mobility, with some jurisdictions introducing legislation with more ambitious timelines and launching new initiatives to reduce administrative burden for workers seeking recognition of their qualifications.
The forum is working toward a June 1 deadline to develop a Canada-wide credential recognition plan that accounts for each jurisdiction’s unique characteristics, including language provisions. This commitment was made to First Ministers earlier this year in collaboration with the Committee on Internal Trade.
“To build one Canadian economy, we need to make it easier for workers in every province and territory to find good jobs,” said Hajdu. “Canada’s labour market ministers agree. We can do more and faster—and today, we set out to do that together.”
Focus on economic resilience
The ministers’ efforts come as governments look for strategies to mitigate potential negative effects from tariffs and unlock the full economic potential of free trade within Canada. Ministers agreed on actions to build a more resilient, adaptable and mobile workforce to support stronger domestic economic growth.
Young emphasized the importance of removing barriers to help workers find employment where their skills are needed most.
“By strengthening labour mobility and breaking down barriers to credential recognition, we can help Canadians get to work faster—no matter where their skills are needed,” said Young. “This kind of collaboration is key to building a more resilient workforce and supporting long-term prosperity across the country.”
Exploring additional collaboration opportunities
Ministers discussed conducting consultations to determine the best approach for further improvements while exploring additional opportunities to support economic growth and productivity. They also considered possible collaboration with other ministerial tables to address areas linked to labour mobility, such as occupational health and safety training and licensing.
Funding discussions continue
Provincial and territorial ministers reaffirmed their position on the need for additional funding through Labour Market Transfer Agreements, which allow provinces and territories to deliver tailored employment assistance and reskilling services. They emphasized the need for increased LMTA funding to support workers and ensure effective responses to tariff-related challenges.
The federal minister committed to further discussions on LMTA modernization with provincial and territorial counterparts.
Ministers committed to continued information sharing across government levels and regular meetings as part of their focused efforts to build a resilient Canadian workforce and economy.
The Forum of Labour Market Ministers was established in 1983 as an intergovernmental forum to strengthen cooperation on federal, provincial and territorial labour market priorities.
