MANITOBA GOVERNMENT RESTORES 1:1 APPRENTICESHIP RATIO

On October 30, new regulations took effect in Manitoba that restore the 1:1 apprentice-to-journeyperson ratio and modernize training programs. Changes to the Apprenticeship and Certification General Regulation also ensure apprentices receive high-quality guidance and proper supports throughout their training program.

The previous government removed the 1:1 ratio requirement, putting Manitoba workers at higher risk of injuries and fatalities on the job. The 1:1 ratio was established in response to the 1999 death of Michael Skanderberg, who was killed on the job while working unsupervised.

Other regulatory changes will modernize the apprenticeship system to reduce administrative burdens and make Manitoba more competitive with other Canadian jurisdictions. Existing apprenticeship agreements can continue if:

+ employers were granted permission to have journeypersons supervise more than one apprentice;

+ apprentices demonstrate continued progress in their training program under pre-existing employment agreements; and

+ journeypersons do not take on additional apprentices.

“The restoration of the 1:1 ratio will improve training and safety for apprentices, providing the journeyperson time to properly instruct them and pass on their knowledge of the trade. It will help the building trades by allotting more apprentices to address shortages in construction,” said Local 1 Manitoba Business Manager/Financial Secretary Evan Collingridge. “Safety is always a priority in our trades. We all want everyone to come home at the end of the day.”