As CPA members are aware, one of the issues propane representatives raised with Minister Lisa Thompson during her sectoral roundtable discussion in early June 2020 was the ongoing skilled labour deficit in the province’s propane field. Members highlighted the critical need for skilled gas fitters/technicians and truck drivers to serve existing clients and grow the sector. They suggested government support in these areas at this time could not only boost employment numbers in rural and remote communities, but also serve community members whose homes are now offices as well.
On July 31, 2020 CPA Ontario Director Marcelline Riddell spoke to Mike Temple, acting eastern regional manager with the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development and his staff, about the skills and training needs and employment opportunities the sector offers.
After Riddell supplied a snapshot of the current workforce and training programs offered by Ontario’s community colleges Temple indicated that he thought the ministry might be able to provide some assistance. Riddell is scheduled to have a more detailed conversation with Lauren MacDonald, a ministry employment and training consultant, on August 13, 2020.
Members will continue to be updated on progress in any of the areas identified during Minister Thompson’s roundtable COVID-19 recovery discussion.