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To the Editor,

Canadian skilled trades apprentices were at the forefront of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s agenda on April 28, 2026, when he delivered the Liberal government’s Spring Economic Update, fittingly, in a room full of trades workers in Ottawa.

For years, the number one reason apprentices have been unable to attend trades school has been the lack of financial supports. This announcement turns that on its head. Extra weekly financial support, along with Employment Insurance, and the return of the Completion Grant will make all the difference to the financial challenges apprentices face when they attend up to 10 weeks of school each year.

As we enter into an age of “build baby build,” the only way to set a sound course on the future of our nation is by supporting the next generation of tradespeople.

Sincerely,

Business Manager/Financial Secretary

IBEW Local 230, Vancouver Island