The Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA) has welcomed the federal government’s recent announcement of the launch of the Canada Apprentice Loan.
“PCA congratulates prime minister Stephen Harper, minister of employment and social development Jason Kenney and national revenue minister Kerry-Lynne Findlay for taking an important leadership role in creating apprenticeship opportunities for more Canadians,” Sean Reid, PCA’s vice-president, federal and Ontario, said in a news release.
“The Canada Apprentice Loan is a welcome new initiative that will help address significant labour shortages in the skilled trades by removing financial barriers to entry into apprenticeships. This measure is part of an important package of federal investments in apprenticeship and skills training that includes the Canada Job Grant, the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant and the Apprenticeship Completion Grant, and will help Canada prepare for the workforce that is needed now and in the future. As Canada’s construction industry works to encourage more Canadians to enter the trades, the Canada Apprentice Loan will have a strong impact on elevating the inherent dignity and status of the skilled trades relative to other academic pursuits.”
“PCA was pleased to play an active consultative role in the development of this important initiative. Our organization will continue to be a leading advocate for strengthening Canada’s workforce through apprenticeship and skills training. We commend the federal government for its continued commitment to and investments in the skilled trades.”