Quebec Labour Minister Jean Boulet plans to table his construction industry reform this fall.

He plans to recognize the prior learning and skills of workers not currently in the construction industry but insists it will not be an ‘open bar.’

The reform will decompartmentalize the trades. The minister says it is not about reducing the number of trades but rather creating a more versatile workforce that can perform tasks currently assigned to other sectors. He also sees it as a way to reduce construction delays and boost efficiency.

When asked if this will mean Quebec will have more workers who have not gone through construction trades school, the minister replied, “we’ll see.”

“What is important for me is to recognize their skills and competencies, to ensure that their training is equivalent to what is required in Quebec to work in the construction sector. We don’t want it to become an open bar, either. We must make sure that we evaluate the people and allow them, without unnecessary red tape, to enter this sector,” said Minister Boulet.

The minister made it clear that he would consult with the community before moving forward. In 2018, changes to training sparked an illegal strike of crane operators.

Boulet said he is aware there will always be pushback. “Yes, there will be all the time. As soon as you make a change, as soon as you consider a modernization, it creates some tension. That’s why I talk. I listen, I collaborate, I get solutions,” he said.

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