Nova Scotia apprentices will soon be able to work and train more easily in Atlantic Canada.
The provinces and the federal government will work together to streamline apprenticeship across the Atlantic region. Training, certifications and standards will be consistent across the four Atlantic provinces, making it easier for apprentices to complete their training, and boosting the region’s economy.
“These changes are another step toward our goal of modernizing Nova Scotia’s apprenticeship system, and will be good for the entire region,” said Premier Stephen McNeil, chair of the Council of Atlantic Premiers. “Atlantic Canada will lead the country with this project, and it fits in well with Nova Scotia’s efforts to improve our apprenticeship system, offer better access to training and make sure we have the skilled workers we need.”
The province is also creating an industry-led apprenticeship agency that will give employers a bigger role in Nova Scotia’s apprenticeship system, including delivery of the new streamlined, Atlantic Canadian approach.
There are 13 different apprenticeship systems across Canada, each with different requirements. Inconsistencies among provincial systems can make it difficult for apprentices to complete training if they move, and for employers to recruit the people they need.
The project will focus on 10 trades; the first four will be bricklayer, cook, construction electrician, and instrumentation and control technician. The project will consider the needs of apprentices and employers.
The federal government will put $4.3 million toward the project. The Atlantic provinces will contribute $3.5 million in staff time and operational support. Business, labour and training institutions are key apprenticeship partners, and will also participate in the project.
“Having harmonized apprenticeship systems will help more Canadians gain the skills and experience they need to find available jobs,” said federal Minister of Employment and Social Development Jason Kenney. “This project will create jobs and opportunities for workers across Atlantic Canada and help employers get the skilled workers they need. The government of Canada is proud to be involved in this important step forward in removing the barriers to job creation caused by different apprenticeship systems across the country.”
This project will complement work to streamline training and certification requirements in targeted Red Seal trades across Canada.
Source: Release
