2024-01-26 22:43:57
After health and education, the Legault government now intends to reform the construction law.
In an open letter to be published on Saturday, the Minister of Labor, Jean Boulet, argues that the Act respecting labor relations, vocational training and workforce management in the construction industry should be reviewed, not having been subject to reform for many years.
“Times have changed and ways of doing things must adapt to today’s reality,” he writes. We have to think about the future.”
The minister illustrates his point in particular by addressing the evolution of the unemployment rate in recent years in addition to the arrival of the labor shortage as well as an increase in certain needs.
There is currently a shortage of between 10,000 and 15,000 construction workers to meet all needs.
Quebec will therefore demand more flexibility from workers and employers in the 25 trade shifts regulated by the province.
“It requires a certain versatility to reduce delays and, consequently, lower costs,” says Mr. Boulet.
The FTQ-Construction, which represents 43% of workers, is not against such a reform, but has certain reservations.
“We have a shortage of qualifications and skills, so we should start by training our people properly and adequately in the construction industry,” says general manager Éric Boisjoly.
“Employers are more compartmentalized than the construction professions, and the regulations on professional training prove it,” he continues. We will ask a painting contractor to lay tiles or carpet, he will say that he does not do that.”
For his part, the public affairs manager of the Quebec Construction Association, Guillaume Houle, is of the opinion that the different trade shifts should not be touched.
“It’s certain that with 26 shifts,” he said. There are some companies that have rebuilt themselves over the last few years by making a name for themselves around the quarter trades that it represents and we cannot attack the quarter trades. We really want there to be more flexibility.”
The minister will also have his work cut out to ensure that workers can be moved to a region where demand is greater.
“It does not necessarily have to be unconditional mobility,” however, affirms Mr. Boulet.
The latter will have to continue his work of rapprochement next week.
See the full report in the video above
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