Canada Labour Ministers Meet To Discuss Workplace Goals

Labour ministers from across Canada met in Québec City to discuss shared priorities aimed at improving workplace conditions and supporting workers nationwide. The meeting was organized by Employment and Social Development Canada and brought together federal, provincial, and territorial representatives to strengthen collaboration on key labour issues.

The session was co-chaired by Jean Boulet and John Zerucelli. Discussions focused on enhancing labour mobility, improving workplace safety, and supporting major infrastructure projects across the country.

One of the main topics was labour mobility, especially in the construction sector. Ministers reviewed progress on efforts to make it easier for workers to move between provinces and territories without needing to repeat training. This is expected to help address workforce shortages and support large-scale development projects.

To achieve this, ministers agreed on a plan to harmonize occupational health and safety training across jurisdictions. Key training areas include Working at Heights and Mobile Elevating Work Platforms, which are targeted for implementation by January 1, 2027. Additional areas such as Hoisting and Rigging, Trenching and Shoring, and entry-level construction training will also be developed and aligned in the coming years.

Officials have been directed to create a more unified training system by the fall of 2026. Ministers also committed to meeting more frequently to ensure continued progress and to remove barriers that limit worker mobility across Canada. Future meetings are scheduled to take place in Nova Scotia later this year and in Saskatchewan in spring 2027.

Another important issue discussed was worker misclassification in the trucking industry. Ministers agreed to form a joint working group to develop solutions and provide updates by fall 2026. This step aims to ensure fair treatment and proper classification of workers in the sector.

At the international level, ministers noted progress toward Canada’s possible adoption of the International Labour Organization’s Convention 155, which focuses on occupational health and safety. They also approved a renewed strategy for cooperation with the ILO for the period from 2026 to 2028.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all participants to continue working together to create fair, safe, and inclusive workplaces. Officials emphasized that collaboration between different levels of government is essential to building a stronger economy and improving conditions for workers across the country.