September 7, 2026 Gatineau, Quebec Employment and Social Development Canada
Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, and the Honourable John Zerucelli, Secretary of State (Labour), issued the following statement marking Labour Day:
"The history of Labour Day reminds us that progress is built by people. Today, we recognize the generations of workers and labour leaders whose efforts, through strong unions, helped shape the rights and protections Canadians rely on: paid leaves, fair wages, better work-life balance and safer workplaces. That same spirit of collaboration will carry us through today's challenges and help build a stronger future for everyone.
Canada's workplaces are evolving. New technologies, changing industries and trade relationships being tested are reshaping how we work. How we rise to meet this will define the Canada we build next. Meeting that challenge means investing in workers, strengthening workplaces and preparing Canada's workforce for the opportunities ahead.
Workers are the backbone of this country's success. Generations of skilled workers, including union workers, have built the homes, infrastructure and industries this country relies on. That is why Team Canada Strong is expanding the Union Training and Innovation Program, helping union-run training centres grow and equip the next generation of tradespeople. Together, with the support of our union partners, we will help recruit, train and hire up to 100,000 new Red Seal certified workers over the next five years.
Unions have long championed strong safety standards on the job, and that work matters more than ever as labour mobility grows. The federal government is working alongside provincial and territorial partners to align occupational health and safety requirements across provinces and territories, particularly in construction. This means workers can move between jurisdictions to take advantage of opportunities without ever compromising the safety standards they and their unions have fought for.
Fairness for Canadian workers doesn't stop at the border. Unions have long fought to end exploitation here at home, and that legacy now extends to global supply chains. The federal government remains committed to combatting forced labour and supporting responsible business practices that protect human rights and create a level playing field for Canadian workers and businesses.
Canada's economy is changing as a result of tariff action that is threatening many industries. In these uncertain times, we are reminded of the strength of unions, who have taught us that taking care of one another and standing up for one another is what makes us stronger. The federal government will stand alongside unions to ensure workers have the financial and training supports that help them thrive.
On this Labour Day, we thank every worker, every union representative, every labour leader and every employer for helping build a stronger, safer and more prosperous Canada.
Happy Labour Day."
