August 25, 2026 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Employment and Social Development Canada
The global trade landscape is shifting rapidly, creating uncertainty for workers, industries and communities across Canada. In times like these, the federal government is focused on what it can control: building a stronger, more resilient economy, and ensuring Canadians have the skills they need to succeed.
Canada's life sciences and biomanufacturing sector is a key contributor to Canada's economic resilience. It drives innovation, improves health outcomes, strengthens supply chains, and supports good jobs across the country. As demand for skilled talent continues to grow, investing in workforce development is essential to supporting domestic production, strengthening Canada's competitiveness on the world stage, and protecting our workers.
Today, Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, announced that the Government of Canada is providing up to $8.7 million to the Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL) under the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program. Through its project, Supporting Workforce Capacity in Canada's Biomanufacturing Sector, CASTL will help strengthen Canada's ability to produce life-saving drugs, vaccines and health products that Canadians rely on, right here at home.
The project will help fill persistent skill shortages, connect qualified workers with jobs, and open pathways to good careers. Up to 1,800 Canadians, including mid-career and displaced workers, newcomers, underemployed individuals and youth, will get the training and support they need to succeed in these growing fields.
Today's announcement builds on the Prime Minister's June 14th announcement expanding Canada's partnership with Ireland in science, technology and culture. As part of that partnership, CASTL signed a memorandum of understanding with Ireland's National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training to strengthen workforce development in the biopharmaceutical and life sciences sectors. The agreement will provide access to international expertise and best practices, helping to build a highly skilled workforce that supports innovation and growth in Canada.
This investment supports broader efforts to address workforce needs in advanced manufacturing, one of six priority sectors identified under the Government of Canada's Workforce Alliance, helping ensure Canadian workers and businesses are equipped to thrive in the future economy.
