BUDGET 2023 DELIVERS STRONG WINS FOR BUILDING TRADES WORKERS

The Government of Canada released the 2023 Federal Budget in March. It includes strong investments to build Canada’s green economy, building on commitments announced in the Fall Economic Statement.

Canada’s Building Trades Unions (CBTU) applauded the budget, which reflects the government’s commitment to growing the middle class and an economy that will help Canada meet its net-zero goals. Some highlights of the budget include:

+ The definition of “prevailing wage,” which is a win for all workers but especially building trades workers. Tying investment tax credits to projects using prevailing wages (normally set by the union scale) and benefits language raises the standard of living for all workers and strengthens the middle class.

+ The $4,000 CA mobility tax credit is an incentive for construction workers to travel the country to fill demand in provinces experiencing labour shortages.

+ There are numerous grants and loans available to apprentices that are designed to increase recruitment and retention on the road to becoming journey workers.

+ The Union Training and Innovation Program, which provides $25 million annually to support apprenticeship training in the Red Seal trades across Canada. BAC Locals apply for and access this funding, with the goal of improving their individual training centres with additional equipment or infrastructure, depending on the stream of funding they apply for.

“The 2023 budget shows the Trudeau government’s continued commitment to growing the middle class, strengthening unions, and moving Canada towards a net-zero economy while keeping workers at the forefront,” said Canada Regional Director Craig Strudwick. “As we move into another phase of energy production, it is valuable to have a government that prioritizes working people."