24 February, 2012Unionized skilled trade workers set out their vision for an industrial policy that can rebuild the manufacturing industry in Canada.
CANADA: Over 180 workers from across Canada gathered at the Canadian Autoworkers (CAW-TCA) skilled trade conference to discuss future skill needs. During the conference participants argued strongly about the need for an industrial policy in Canada that supports manufacturing jobs and encourages investments in skilled trades. Many delegates drew attention to the fact that over 400,000 jobs have been lost in the Canadian manufacturing industry over the last five years.
Today, workers are concerned that companies and governments will erode rather than strengthen the quality and number of apprenticeships leading to skill shortages. During the conference delegates passed 16 resolutions aimed at addressing these concerns. The resolutions covered issues from apprenticeship hiring ratios, new technology and skilled trade training, to the Canada-European Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement.
The conference also took place in preparation for a major collective bargaining round of the master agreements in the big three auto companies (Ford, GM, Chrysler) that will begin later this year. Delegates are determined to secure the future of the auto industry in Canada.
Peter Kennedy, CAW Secretary-Treasurer, told delegates, "Looking to the years ahead a major shift is occurring in our skilled trades memberships as a large number of skilled trades members are retiring, creating skill shortages. These shortages support the need for apprenticeship opportunities, which require governments to supply the necessary leadership and funding for these programs."
Skilled trades are a key part to the Canadian economy and the CAW-TCA has over 20,000 skilled trade members. The members come from major assembly plants to hundreds of parts suppliers, from aircraft and aerospace plants to tool and die shops, from underground mines, railway locomotive and car repair shops, shipyards, to healthcare and retail.
Rob Johnston, IMF Executive Director, informed delegates, "The skilled trades are the backbone of any successful economy. The CAW has set out the framework for an industrial policy that recognizes that fact. But the union cannot do this alone - government and employers must also accept their responsibilities."
Delegates where also presented case studies on skill training schemes in Australia, UK, Japan, Denmark and North America. The case studies covered plant closures, apprenticeship training and skills training.