Peterborough City Council has endorsed a motion from Councillor Joy Lachica urging federal and provincial governments to bolster support for college boards to maintain skilled trades courses.
The motion addresses the looming retirement of 700,000 skilled trades workers by 2028 and the impact of 29 recent program cuts at Fleming College, which it states are critical for training workers in the Peterborough region.
The motion highlights the importance of skilled trades in supporting the local economy, meeting housing targets, and addressing infrastructure needs. It also notes that higher enrollment in skilled trades programs leads to students remaining in the area, contributing to the local economy as workers and ratepayers.
The resolution calls for the establishment of metrics and direction to ensure courses that benefit the local economy are maintained. It will be forwarded to: the provincial ministry of colleges and universities, provincial ministry of economic development, job creation and trade, provincial ministry of labour, immigration, training and skills development, provincial ministry of the environment, conservation and parks, provincial ministry of natural resources and forestry, and provincial ministry of agriculture, food and rural affairs, the federal minister of immigration, MP Michelle Ferreri, and MPP Dave Smith.
(Written by: Ted Smith)
