RESCON applauds federal government’s 2021 budget

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Ontario Construction News staff writer

The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) has commended the federal government for a budget that focuses on addressing fallout from the unprecedented disruption caused by COVID-19, training young workers for the future in construction and other industries, and amending immigration rules to help address Canada’s labour needs.

“We are pleased that the government is taking steps in this budget to deal with the economic crisis caused by COVID-19 but is also focused on the future by investing in programs to ensure that industries like construction will have the skilled workers they need for the future,” said RESCON president Richard Lyall.

“These are difficult times, but we must ensure that we are taking the steps that are necessary to ensure our youth get the training they need.”

The $470-million investment announced to establish an Apprenticeship Service and help Red Seal-trade apprentices find opportunities and jobs also provides $5,000 in training subsidies to employers. This subsidy increases to $10,000 for employers who take on BIPOC and women apprentices.

In Ontario alone, more than 115,000 construction workers will be needed to offset retirements from the industry within the next decade. The new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, which will see $960 million provided over three years, will help employers design and deliver training to job seekers while also improving recruitment and retention practices to attract more diverse workers.

“We applaud the government’s efforts to encourage young people to seek careers in the trades, and the steps being taken to encourage employers to hire apprentices,” says RESCON VP Andrew Pariser. “Our industry is at risk of a sharp labour deficit and we need to get more youth into the industry. These programs will certainly help with that effort.”

Proposed amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act would allow for greater prioritization of candidates in the Express Entry System who can support Canada’s labour market demands, which includes the construction industry.

“Immigration has long been a source of workers for Canada’s residential construction industry, and we are pleased to see this initiative put forward,” Pariser said.

 

 

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