In an effort to tackle a growing labour shortage in Ontario, Premier Doug Ford has announced plans to make it easier for out-of-province skilled trade workers to have their credentials recognized.
If passed, the new legislation would allow skilled workers moving to Ontario to register in their regulated profession or trade within 30 business days of their arrival.
“At a time when our government is building Ontario, it’s never been more important that we attract more workers to fill in-demand jobs,” said Ford. “To do so, we’re cutting red tape to make it easier for skilled professionals from across Canada to get the papers they need to work in Ontario, faster. This move opens more doors for workers to call Ontario home while contributing to our plan to build more roads, bridges, highways, homes and public transit.”
Ford made the announcement alongside Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton while visiting Armatec in Dorchester on Friday.
According to Ford, there were 338,835 vacant jobs across the province between July and September 2021, which cost billions in lost productivity.
The move to accelerate credential recognition for out-of-province workers would make it easier for engineers, auto mechanics, plumbers, and several other regulated professionals to fill vacant jobs in Ontario.
Additionally, Ford is proposing to recognize three fuel-related professions under the province’s skilled trades legislation – gas fitter Class A and Class B, and oil and heat systems technician. That would mean Ontario would officially recognize all 55 Red Seal Trades which would also make it easier for workers to move between provinces and territories in Canada.
Other steps being taken to help out-of-province workers eyeing a move to Ontario include the introduction of a fall protection training refresher course that would eliminate the need for those who’ve already completed the course elsewhere to retake it and standardized training that would allow apprentices to continue their training in Ontario.
According to Ford, the province is facing a historic labour shortage with large numbers of skilled trade workers at or approaching retirement age. In 2016, nearly one in three journeypersons in Ontario were aged 55 or older.
