The Fréchette government is reacting cautiously to the announcement of a federal investment in the construction sector.
“Quebec is ready to collaborate with the federal government while respecting its jurisdiction. (…) We already have programs that work—we need to build on what delivers results,” said Premier Christine Fréchette on X.
In its economic update presented Tuesday, the Carney government announced plans to invest $6 billion over five years across the country to attract between 80,000 and 100,000 young people to skilled construction trades.
For Quebec, the measure could represent $200 million this year.
However, “workforce training falls under Quebec’s exclusive jurisdiction, and we intend to ensure that this is respected,” warned the new Minister responsible for Canadian Relations, Jean Boulet.
The tone, however, remains one of “collaboration” with the Carney government.
“We expect constructive collaboration. (…) Quebec already has effective programs, laws, and partners that deliver results. Funding should support what works, not create duplication,” Boulet emphasized.
In Ottawa, Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon assured that his team would work with Quebec “to find a funding formula that will help achieve the objectives we have set.”
“Be aware that in Quebec—perhaps especially in Quebec—the issue of the shortage of skilled workers is critical. (…) And we are here to help ensure that this problem is addressed,” he added.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews
