The federal and Saskatchewan governments have launched a partnership to support workers affected by global trade tariffs through targeted skills training and initiatives designed to enhance provincial labor market stability.
Joint Investment in Workforce Protection
As announced by Employment and Social Development Canada, this collaboration involves an investment of up to $22.7 million over three fiscal years, from 2024–25 to 2026–27. The Government of Canada will contribute $17 million through the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP), with the Government of Saskatchewan adding $5.7 million.
Program Objectives
This funding aims to assist approximately 1,600 workers directly. The initiatives will focus on reskilling and upskilling workers in sectors impacted by tariffs, particularly those in the steel and aluminum industries. The partnership seeks to mitigate the negative effects of trade measures on the provincial workforce.
Implementation and Benefits
The programs resulting from this partnership will include customized training, job placement services, and support for employers to adapt to changing economic conditions. The goal is to strengthen Saskatchewan's labor market resilience and ensure workers have the necessary skills for current and future employment opportunities within the province. This joint effort is intended to provide a safety net for workers facing potential job displacement due to global trade dynamics.
Provincial and Federal Collaboration
This partnership is part of ongoing efforts by both levels of government to address economic challenges and support Canadian workers. The SWSP is a federal program designed to help key sectors of the Canadian economy address their workforce needs by supporting solutions developed by employers and unions.
Source: Employment and Social Development Canada (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2026/03/governments-of-canada-and-saskatchewan-partner-to-protect-tariff-impacted-workers-and-strengthen-the-workforce0.html)