A return to an older system is on the way for Manitoban trade workers, effective before the end of this month.
The provincial government announced today they would be restoring the 1-to-1 ratio of apprentices to journeypeople effective October 30. There will also be other changes that will “modernize training programs” according to their release.
“Restoring the 1:1 ratio supports safe and higher quality training for workers,” said Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses. “All Manitobans deserve to come home safely at the end of their workday.”
According to the province, changes to the Apprenticeship and Certification General Regulation will also ensure apprentices receive high-quality supervision and appropriate supports throughout their training program, noted the minister.
“Apprenticeship is the training program, Red Seal is the career,” said Tanya Palson, executive director, Manitoba Building Trades. “This change will help young Manitobans feel sure that when they enter the training program, they are supported to completion so that they can build their careers and support their families here at home.”
In their release, the government said the previous government had removed the 1-to-1 ratio. Rules about the ratio of apprentices to journeypeople came into effect in response to the 1999 death of Michael Skanderberg, who was killed on the job while working unsupervised.
Minister Moses added this is the first step in the provincial government fulfilling a commitment to creating 10,000 skilled labour jobs in Manitoba.
