Based on coverage from CBC and Global.
In a move that could reshape Manitoba's construction landscape, the provincial government has inked a landmark agreement with Manitoba Building Trades (MBT), a coalition of trade unions. This new framework aims to prioritize local labour for major public infrastructure projects, starting with the construction of four new kindergarten to Grade 8 schools. Premier Wab Kinew announced the Manitoba Jobs Agreement (MJA) at Winnipeg's Inkster Industrial Park, painting it as a bold step to bolster the local economy and workforce.
The MJA is designed to ensure that contractors on government-funded projects worth at least $50 million give preference to Manitoba workers. This isn't just about putting shovels in the ground; it's about laying the foundation for a more robust, locally-driven economy. As Kinew put it, "Let's put people to work." He emphasized the importance of hiring Manitobans to build Manitoba, a sentiment that resonates particularly in the face of external economic pressures, like those from south of the border.
The first projects under this agreement are the four schools, set to rise in Winnipeg's Devonshire Park and Prairie Pointe, West St. Paul's Meadowlands, and southwest Brandon. But that's just the beginning. Kinew hinted at a future filled with ambitious projects, from a new emergency room at Winnipeg's Victoria Hospital to developments in the tech industry and infrastructure improvements for Manitoba Hydro and the Churchill port.
Tanya Palson, executive director of MBT, hailed the agreement as a transformative moment for the province. She highlighted that public investments should deliver more than just physical structures; they should foster careers, provide stability for families, and strengthen communities. The MJA aims to do just that by mandating that at least 10% of project work hours be filled by local apprentices. This initiative is expected to provide thousands of hours of hands-on learning for young Manitobans, paving the way for stable careers in the trades.
Moreover, the agreement sets aside 20% of work hours for equity-deserving groups, including Indigenous Manitobans, women, and newcomers. Palson sees this as an opportunity to open doors and expand participation in the industry, creating a more inclusive workforce.
Kevin Rebeck, president of the Manitoba Federation of Labour, described the MJA as an investment in the province's future well-being. He criticized the previous Progressive Conservative government for relying on out-of-province labour, which he claims sidelined local workers. Rebeck is optimistic that Manitoba has enough local labour to meet the demand, and he hopes this will challenge trade schools and unions to train more workers.
However, not everyone is on board. The Winnipeg Construction Association (WCA) expressed surprise and disappointment at being left out of consultations. WCA President Ron Hambley noted that their members, which include both union and open-shop firms, were not consulted despite their significant role in bidding on large projects. Hambley lamented the missed opportunity for the government to consider their unique perspective on project labour agreements.
Despite this criticism, MBT's Palson remains confident. She assured that the province is ready to meet the labour demands, with hundreds of union members eager to work on these projects. The agreement also ensures continuous training for workers, preparing them for future opportunities.
In essence, the MJA represents a strategic shift towards local empowerment in Manitoba's construction sector. While it promises to create jobs and foster a skilled workforce, it also underscores the importance of inclusive growth. As the province embarks on this ambitious journey, the hope is that these projects will not only build infrastructure but also build a stronger, more resilient Manitoba.
