Apprenticeship Improvements Passed

A new apprenticeship act was passed today, May 22, to help more Nova Scotians get better access to trades training.

Improvements will make the apprenticeship system more accessible to more people, including youth. People will be able to complete their training in a more timely manner and get more relevant training through greater industry involvement in program design.

"These changes to the apprenticeship system will bring more young people into trades training and ensure we have the skilled workers our industries need to compete," said Education Minister Angus MacIsaac. "Renewal of the apprenticeship system, expansion of the community college and investments in universities are all part of our skills initiative to grow Nova Scotia's economy."

The new act was developed through consultation with industry stakeholders and introduced by Mr. MacIsaac on April 4. The last update to the act was in 1989.

The new act lays the groundwork for a new youth apprenticeship program to help young people get on track early for careers in trades. It will be developed and piloted this year.

Improvements to the apprenticeship program are part of the province's Skills Nova Scotia initiative. The initiative involves meeting the skill demands of Nova Scotia's labour market, providing better labour market access and support, and strengthening Nova Scotia's system of lifelong learning opportunities.