OTTAWA — As the early days of this federal election campaign kick into high gear, the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Canada has endorsed Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre for prime minister.
“Pierre Poilievre’s commitment to Canada goes beyond our natural resources — he is also committed to protecting Canadian workers, with programs like his recently-announced ‘Boots not Suits’ plan,” writes International Brotherhood of Boilermaker’s vice-president Arnie Stadnick in a letter.
“This plan will provide funding for apprentice training and facilities, enhance safety and make it easier for workers to go where the work is across Canada. This plan is designed to strengthen the workforce and reduce reliance on foreign labour, adding 350,000 Canadian workers to job sites over five years.”
Speaking at a recent news conference, Poilievre said his plan will provide direct grants and faster access to employment insurance for apprentices in licensed trades.
Poilievre said the goal is to deliver higher paycheques to workers and make Canada less reliant on the U.S. economy.
It would see the federal government offer apprenticeship grants of up to $4,000, fund training halls for skills development for up to 350,000 workers over five years, and work with provinces to harmonize health and safety regulations to allow tradespeople to work anywhere in Canada.
The boilermakers represent 12,000 workers across Canada, spanning the construction, shipbuilding, energy production and manufacturing industries.
— With files from The Canadian Press
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