TORONTO — David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, issued the following statement to mark Labour Day:
“Today, we recognize the millions of workers across Ontario whose hard work, skill and dedication keep our province moving and help create the communities we call home.
From the skilled trades and manufacturing to health care, agriculture, hospitality, transportation and countless other sectors, Ontario workers are the backbone of our economy. Their contributions are helping Ontario deliver on its $236 billion plan to build the homes, highways, hospitals, schools and critical infrastructure that will protect Ontario workers and communities. As our province grows, we are ensuring that the next generation of workers has the opportunity to be part of that future.
As President Trump’s tariffs continue to create economic uncertainty for workers and businesses, our government is standing up for tariff-impacted workers and taking action to protect the industries and communities that depend on them, including steel, automotive and manufacturing. That means helping more people get a head start on their career journeys, creating more pathways to good-paying careers so people have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed, while ensuring Ontario has the skilled workforce needed to build the most competitive and resilient economy in the G7.
Through the Canada-Ontario Workforce Tariff Response, and programs like Skills Advance Ontario and our Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centres, we are strengthening supports for tariff-impacted workers by helping people retrain for new opportunities and providing job-protected leave so workers can search for a job or participate in training. This will ensure they don’t have to choose between preparing for the future and protecting their employment.
For workers looking for their next opportunity, and young people preparing to enter the workforce for the first time, we are continuing to make record investments to expand access to training and apprenticeships that lead to good-paying, in-demand careers. These programs are providing modern, industry-standard training so workers have the tools they need to succeed and employers have the skilled workforce they need to grow.
On behalf of the Government of Ontario, thank you to every worker for everything you do to build our province, support our communities and keep Ontario moving forward. This Labour Day, and every day, our government is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ontario workers.
I wish everyone a safe and happy Labour Day.”