Canadian Apprenticeship Forum applauds Federal budget boost for skilled trades

by | Mar 19, 2019 | 1 comment

In a statement following the release of the 2019 Federal budget by the Government of Canada, the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA) has issued a statement of support for its skilled trade investment.

“On March 19, 2019, the Government of Canada announced the 2019 Budget. CAF-FCA is extremely pleased to see proposed investments in promoting the skilled trades and ensuring that Canada has a strong and viable apprenticeship pathway.

“Among the most prominent items, the 2019 Budget proposes to invest $40 million over four years, starting in 2020-21, and $10 million per year ongoing in Skills/Compétences Canada, in order for them to continue to promote the skilled trades through their skills competitions and programs. In addition, the Government proposes to invest to invest $6 million over two years, starting in 2019–20, to create a national campaign to promote the skilled trades as a first-choice career for young people. The campaign will work to change the perception of careers in the skilled trades to parents, youth and educators.

“Budget 2019 proposes the development of a new strategy to support apprentices and those employed in the skilled trades. This new Apprenticeship Strategy will ensure that existing supports and programs— including the Apprenticeship Incentive and Completion Grants—address the barriers to entry and progression for those who want to work in the skilled trades in the most effective way, and support employers who face challenges in hiring and retaining apprentices.

“CAF-FCA continues to provide world-class research and leadership in apprenticeship innovation, and we look forward to working with the federal government and other partners to see these proposals activated.”

1 Comment

  1. Gary Lewis

    This is excellent. Here in the USA, apprenticeship was largely tied to unions. As unions declined, so did apprenticeship. This was a great loss in opportunity for young people.

    Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *