A new poll shows Red Seal tradespeople share many economic concerns with other Canadians but place higher priority on employment issues as the country approaches a federal election.
The survey of 500 skilled trades workers commissioned by Canada’s Building Trades Unions (CBTU) reveals strong support for policies that protect well-paid union jobs in construction.
“These findings reflect not only the sentiments of Canada’s skilled trades workers but also provide insight for policymakers as they navigate the current and future economic landscape,” said CBTU in a statement.
Strong support for higher wages and fair policies
The poll conducted by Abacus Data showed 85% of respondents want raised wages to ensure workers receive top compensation in their local area.
Additionally, 83% agreed that companies receiving government contracts or investments should be required to pay tradespeople wages and benefits equal to union standards.
Other top priorities included lowering taxes so workers keep more of their paychecks (87%) and investing in domestic infrastructure to improve Canadian self-sufficiency (87%).
Employment concerns
While the survey found skilled trades workers share many of the same priorities with the general Canadian population, tradespeople expressed heightened concern about employment issues.
The survey also revealed 63% of respondents believe now is the time for “big and bold actions” to shape Canada’s future, with 70% agreeing the country needs “visionary free thinkers who have the courage to defy traditional views.”
Labour mobility tax awareness
The poll highlighted varying awareness of the Labour Mobility Tax Deduction, with 62% of respondents knowing about it but only 23% having used it.
This suggests a need for “greater accessibility, expansion of the total deduction amount limit, and a reduction of the kilometer threshold,” according to the report.
CBTU, which represents 14 international unions in construction and related industries with a combined membership of 600,000 skilled trades workers, emphasized it remains non-partisan and does not endorse specific parties or candidates.
The survey was conducted in late February 2025 and has a margin of error of +/- 4.38%, 19 times out of 20.
