The federal government has announced $42 million in funding aimed at bolstering the skilled trades workforce in Quebec.
The investment includes $39.4 million over five years, starting from the 2023-24 fiscal year, provided to the Government of Quebec under the Union Training and Innovation Program. This funding is designed to enhance the training infrastructure by supplying modern equipment and materials. It also aims to foster innovation and partnerships to improve apprenticeship outcomes.
Between 2,000 and 5,000 Red Seal apprentices, including individuals from under-represented groups, are expected to benefit from this initiative annually.
Randy Boissonnault, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, also highlighted additional investments totaling more than $3.5 million under the Women in the Skilled Trades Initiative. This includes $940,000 for the Centrale des syndicats démocratiques (CSD) to reduce barriers and increase access to Red Seal trades in Quebec, and $2.5 million for the Syndicat québécois de la construction (SQC) to support the hiring and retention of women apprentices through career development training and supportive environments.
“A robust skilled trades workforce is key to building a better Canada for all,” said Boissonnault. “By supporting Quebec apprentices to enter and grow in high-demand careers, we can improve the housing supply and reduce barriers to participation for under-represented groups.”
Carl Dufour, president of CSD Construction, emphasized the importance of their initiative, noting, “To improve retention, CSD Construction has developed an innovative program that offers coaching, guidance, training, and financial support, while combating psychological and sexual harassment.”
Charles-Olivier Picard, General Manager of SQC, added, “The Projet Initiatives Femmes du SQC is a unifying, inclusive project tailored to women construction workers. At SQC, every woman should feel proud, accomplished, and competent as a construction worker.”
These investments are part of a broader effort under Budget 2024 and Canada’s Housing Plan to address the country’s housing needs. The government aims to unlock 3.87 million new homes by 2031, supported by a skilled and inclusive trades workforce.
The Government of Canada invests nearly $1 billion annually in apprenticeship supports, including grants, loans, tax credits, and Employment Insurance benefits during in-school training. This includes $27 million over five years through a national agreement and $23 million through a regional agreement with Skills Canada, engaging youth across the country in skilled trades.